Heidi

Heidi tells the story of a little orphan named Adelheid, who prefers to be called Heidi because that name yodels better. She is one of those rare people who bring happiness wherever she goes—to her old grumpy grandfather on a Swiss mountain and to little lame Clara in Germany. But will Heidi ever find happiness for herself? This immensely popular and highly praised dramatization of the Johanna Spyri novel is by Ann Pugh and Betty Utter, who have turned the novel into an enchanting two-act—musical or nonmusical—play. Showcased at the American Theatre Association convention in New York, the script is arranged so that it can be presented elaborately or simply. It may be presented as a nonmusical by eliminating the songs and dances (songs which play an integral part of the plot may be spoken). The authors also give permission to shorten the show by eliminating or shortening scenes and/or songs. The play includes Swiss and German folklore and traditions such as a visit from St. Nicholas with an Yffel parade and the famous Burning of the Böögg, combining educational and entertaining qualities in a never-to-be-forgotten event. Betty Utter's songs have become popular concert pieces and Ann Pugh's book follows the story well. Heidi is enchantingly alive and real in this play. Children are charmed by it, and adults enjoy the nostalgia of a visit from one of their best childhood friends. Extensive production notes cover all details of elaborate or simple productions. Another highly honored, internationally popular play by Pugh and Utter is It Happened in Hamelin, also known as The Pied Piper.