INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the wonderful world of SKITS!

You have in your hands a modest collection of Cub Scout skits found in Pow Wow books collected over the years by Jean Poulton of the Eagle District, Otetiana Council, BSA. I would like to thank Jean for allowing me to use her collection as a resource; I found there many more skits than I imagined, including only one duplication. Further research proved unnecessary. Thanks Jean!

Since none of this material is original, I have included a footnote to each skit identifying the source I used. This does not mean I have avoided editorial responsibility. Rather, I have attempted to impose a consistent style on the many and varied styles one finds in Pow Wow books that span 5 councils and 15 years. At the same time, since I have not substantially altered any of the skits, I am also not responsible for their content, should it offend. I, personally, found nothing offensive, save for multiple skits revolving around Christmas and Santa Claus, to the exclusion of other faiths. I would welcome any material which would enable me to present a more balanced collection.

The skits themselves are preceded by a fine summary of general information from the Greater Cleveland Council’s 1993 Pow Wow. Several other Pow Wows touched on skit basics, make-up, props, etc., but none so thoroughly nor so timely as Greater Cleveland Council’s 1993 effort. My primary change was removal of references to a local theatrical supply house; you’re on your own here, as I have no idea where this collection of skits may go!

The skits are grouped by type, with a brief introduction to each section describing the skits and discussing some ideas for making each type of skit work on stage. Each skit specifies the cast or characters required, any props needed, and the setting, if required to understand the skit. Dialog is found directly to the right of the character’s name. Stage directions are in parenthesis. Those specific to a character’s lines are included with those lines. Stage directions that apply to all or several characters are separated from the dialog. In some skits, dialog and stage directions are side-by-side, implying that the actions occur during the dialog.

Broad margins and lots of open space are provided for any notes you’d like to make. It’s not a bad idea to start with "Let’s Make a Skit" on page 8, even if you plan to use an existing skit, just to make sure you consider all of the elements necessary for a good skit.

You see, it is up to you, the performers, to do the skits your way, not my way or the original author’s way. Customize, modify, alter to your heart’s content. Just keep in mind that the ultimate goal of Cub Scouting is to have fun. If a skit isn’t fun, change it!!

In my experience, once boys are old enough to read, they enjoy reading skits, selecting the ones they like best, and customizing them to fit their own senses of humor. With younger boys, the Narrator skits work well. They have no speaking parts, but require the boys to act out or pantomime the story. Kids love this stuff! Hopefully, you will, too.

Good Luck

Frank Bov
September 10, 1996

Back to Top

WELCOME TO SKITS

In this age of Mario Brothers, Zelda, Princess Toadstool, Dannon, Freddy Kruegger, Jason, Batman, Slimer, Peter, Egon, the Hulkster, etc., the Cub Scouts are still doing skits. Why? Is it because the adults enjoy watching them? We’re sure this may be a small part but we hardly think that is the main reason. Is it because the boys enjoy doing them? Just ask a 9 year-old what he thinks about doing a skit (He’d rather touch a girl.). Then watch his face when his den completes a skit in front of the pack. The picture is truly worth a thousand words.

The theater is one of man’s oldest art forms. Through television and movies, we are exposed to it daily. With all of those great actors out there and the characters they play, why in the world would we want to have a young boy stand in front of a group with props that are marginal by today’s standards (at the very least) and expect them to recite lines that someone else wrote for them?

Let’s look back at some time in each of our lives. Perhaps "grade school," your class was expected to do a play for one occasion or another. Of course, there was a villain and a hero. Which one did you want to be? And you weren’t picked for either one. You had a rather small part, but you did a good job at it and in the end, you shared in the applause that the audience gave you. No matter how large or small the part. Remember the feeling? And now it really doesn’t matter that you were the sunflower, does it? You still feel the glow.

Recognition is one reason we do skits. There is no better feeling for a boy than to hear applause of the audience. Instant recognition, not up in front with an adult receiving an award that he has completed on his own. but recognition that he and a team of boys have worked far on their own. This recognition is the only way that we, as leaders, can get boys to do skits. Telling them that they will like it afterwards (especially the first time) won’t get a boy on stage.

So you have your den rehearse until you feel like nothing will ever go right and you wonder why you are even trying to get them to do a skit. Think a minute. Why would you even try? IT IS a lot of work. Much easier to tell the whole den to be sick the night of the pack meeting right?

Maybe. But when you became a den leader, you showed a commitment to the boys. And a commitment to their mental development. Speaking in front of a group is part of that development. So you are using a "tool" by having them speak to other boys that they know (even if it is in front of a group), and having them live a little fantasy doing it, even if they can’t ride on an ant or fly through the air. Boys love to fantasize. Just look at all the things that they love that are based on fantasy.

So put away your Grecian formula and Lady Clairol bottles. This section is designed to give you the tools to have your boys put on successful skit. Some of the skits may seem a little elaborate. Some of them are very simple. Use your own creativity to turn them into whatever you want! And then sit back and bask in the glow of the applause. You deserve it; you helped them to do their best!

Many things have to be taken into consideration when your den is going to present a skit. The age of your boys has to be the first consideration. You can’t expect a Wolf to do the same kind of a skit as a boy in a Webelos den. In the same respect, the boys in a Webelos den would feel silly doing a very simple skit, but they can be very good in a skit that requires a lot of reading or memorizing. Boys of Webelos age take a lot of pride in how much they can memorize! You can also appeal to the helpfulness that a Webelos boy has to offer. By doing a simple skit, he can help teach the rest of the pack about an historical event, even, if he has no other interest in it.

Next you have to look at where the skit is scheduled during a pack meeting. Don’t do a serious skit where the pack meeting is really rolling. Nor should you try a humorous skit after a serious advancement ceremony. It just won’t fit and might hurt the confidence of the boys. If It doesn’t fit, get the schedule changed or do a different skit. Also, keep in mind that a skit can be an opening, a closing, or even a ceremony.

Figure out what kind of audience you have. A skit that might go over good at a Blue and Gold dinner, where there are many adults present might not be appropriate at a pack meeting where there are more boys than adults. You’ll be looking for maximum acceptance from the audience (otherwise known as applause) to encourage your boys to do another skit later. Boys in the other dens will also be encouraged. They will look forward to getting their applause next month when they do their skit.

Once you choose your skit, don’t be afraid to alter it. Mold the skit to fit your use. Add characters, rewrite the lines, add props – use all of your resources to enhance the skit. These resources include the boys when they are rehearsing. Sometimes they come up with an idea that really seems to make the skit work better. This idea may come about accidentally, through a blown line or a joke that one of the boys makes about the skit. Don’t be restrained by the printed material in front of you.

As a den leader, you will have to reassure the boys that they are being laughed with, not laughed at. Encourage the boys to improvise if there is a "blown line" or if things are not going exactly as they were planned. Make sure that they understand that skits do not always have a rigid structure and there are many ways to accomplish the same purpose. Remember that they will look at a skit just as you do; if you take a skit in the good humor it is intended, the boys will be more relax.

Plan your skits well in advance of when they will be done. Don’t ever wait until the last den meeting before a pack meeting. If the boys feel unprepared, they will feel ill at ease and will be reluctant to participate in future skits. At the same time, do not over rehearse. Ten to fifteen minutes should be enough to introduce the boys to their skit, assign parts, and run through it once. At the next two den meetings, five to ten minutes should be all that is devoted to "running through" the skit.

A microphone can make a skit far more interesting. There is nothing more boring for the audience than to sit through a five minute skit without hearing anything. The microphone can also be used to amplify sound effects that would otherwise be useless at a pack meeting. If you don’t have access to a microphone, or your boys are shy about speaking up in front of a crowd, try recording the skit and play it back on a "boom box" as the boys pantomime the skit in front of the audience. When you do this, encourage the boys to "lip-synch" with the tape.

WRITING A SKIT: Most skits come from resources such as the Cub Scout Leader’s How-To Book, Group Meeting Sparklers, the Cub Scout Magic Book, or books found in the local library. While these are very good sources, a den leader should not be limited by them, Some of the best skits presented are original and written by den leaders and their boys.

If you can not find anything from these resources, try writing a skit from "scratch." To get yourself going, make a list of all of these things in columns:

SETTING CHARACTERS  PROPS
seashore hippie Boy Scout garter
mountain mountain man dress
desert grandmother sink
city  billy goat motorcycle
country mouse wig & purse

As you can see, some of these items are related, others are not. You can add to this list over a period of time. Just carry it with you and when something comes to mind, jot it down on the list. When you are ready to write the skit, pick out one setting, two characters and two props. Use these as the basis for your skit, then build on your ideas from there.

There are certain areas that should be avoided when writing or presenting a skit for Cub Scouts. For obvious reasons, you should avoid:

Racism Divorce Love Stories
Sexuality Profanity  Unpatriotic themes
Gruesomeness Disrespect Physical Disabilities

Other things that may not be in good taste may not be included in this list. As a general rule, if it degrades a specific person or group of people, do not use it. If you are in doubt as to how the theme will be received, discard it.

PROPS and SCENERY: These are used in many instances to create a "mood" or a setting. Cub Scouts take great pleasure in helping create the things that they will use in a skit, and in many cases, it will help them to complete achievements, electives, or Webelos activities. Ideas on scenery, masks and costumes can be found in the Cub Scout Leader’s How-To Book, and in the children’s section of the public library.

If you decide to include scenery and props there are two ways you may decide to do it; by making them as inexpensive as possible for use only once or twice, or by spending a little more time and money to make them durable enough to be used for many years.

When you decide to make inexpensive scenery and props, paper bags, cardboard boxes, aluminum foil, yarn and tempera paint go a long way. If you decide on more permanent props and scenery, cloth, masonite, old paneling, papier maché, and latex paints are good choices.

If you or a person in your pack is artistic, you may want to make some backdrops of very basic scenes on panels of cardboard or wood: A 3’x5’ panel is easy to handle and store. Use 4 or 5 of these to create an interesting backdrop. One scene that is versatile is an outdoor setting; another is the inside of a log cabin. One indoor scene that is very popular in skits is the inside of a store. You can have the boys make this by saving labels from canned goods and boxes. Cut the appropriate parts out and have them paste them on the "shelves."

Whatever you choose, you will find that your basement, attic, closets, and every nook and cranny in your house will become a warehouse for these items. Once you make them, you will find that there are many other skits and situations that will make you happy that you have saved them. Items that are available for use by other dens in your pack should be added to a list in your Pack’s resource library.

COSTUMES: Plastic garbage bags are an economical source for costumes. Used with other materials, you can make anything from a chef’s apron (white), to a formal tuxedo (black with gold foil lapels).

Rummage sales are a good source of articles of clothing that can be used for costumes and many other items that can be used in a skit. Appliance stores are a good source of cardboard boxes, which can be painted on all four sides for a quick change of scenery. Don’t forget about the "second hand" stores, such as The Salvation Army, Volunteers of America and Goodwill Industries. Many times they have some period clothing, wigs, jewelry, etc., that will make your skit more successful. Here again, it is wise to watch for things that can be used at a later date. Sometimes you will find something interesting enough to build a skit around!

MAKEUP: When using makeup, remember that boys like to pretend but they don’t want to look like sissies. Here again we’d like to refer you to the Cub Scout Leader’s How-To Book for ideas, with a few added comments:

- When using makeup, make sure that you let the boys know what it is; and (if you can) what it is made of. An eight year old boy will delight in creating a real Indian war face on himself (and his mother) with his magic marker set if he does not understand that there are only certain things that are used for makeup.

- If you use an eyebrow pencil or any kind of readily available woman’s cosmetics, make sure that it is not the "permanent" type.

- Tempera paint has been suggested for use as make-up in the Cub Scout Leader’s How-To Book, but we do not recommend its use except in an emergency, because it starts to itch when it dries.

- Latex is used instead of spirit gum for attaching beards and hair. It is readily available and easy to remove. The solvents in rubber cement make it unacceptable for this purpose.

- Makeup sticks are readily available in many colors. You can find some in the party shops around the city that are less expensive than the professional type of sticks. These are usually easily removed, but a word to the wise; check the package, and keep them in a cool place.

- We don’t recommend using burnt cork, because it is hard to remove, but if you must, be sure to use a base of baby oil.

The white makeup that clowns use is easy to make yourself and looks professional if you follow these instructions:

You will need zinc oxide cream (sun block), baby powder, vegetable shortening (like Crisco), and an old sock (no holes!). Put some baby powder in the sock – enough that when you. pat the sock, it comes through the fabric. Put the sock aside, you’ll use it later. Mix the zinc oxide cream with the baby powder until it is the consistency of peanut butter. Add a little shortening to keep the makeup from drying out. Using only the tips of your fingers, apply the makeup to small sections of the face. Repeat until the whole face is covered. The whole face will now be white but look streaky. Smooth the makeup out by gently patting (not rubbing) it with .your fingertips until it looks even. Hold pour breath and close your eyes and lightly pat your face with the sock filled with baby powder. This sets the makeup so that it doesn’t rub off on everything. Finish the face off with colored grease pencils purchased from a hardware store.

Finally, watch for costume sales after Halloween. The "paint on" and "stick on" costumes are usually on sale for less than half price. You may not want the particular face on the cover of the box, but the materials will be useful for other costumes.

Whatever type of makeup you use, make sure that you tell your boys that it will feel unnatural and maybe a little uncomfortable, but it is all part of the theater. Make sure that their discomfort is not due to an allergic reaction.

Throughout this introduction, you have found many references to the Cub Scout Leader’s How-To Book. This is an excellent resource, and should be considered a necessity when planning a skit, whether it is original or taken from another resource.

Some closing thoughts: When your den is planning a skit, make sure that you get some input from the boys. For Cub Scouts, this input will come from their enthusiasm about a particular skit that they have chosen from the ideas you present to them They probably know better what will be accepted by their peers, than you do. Let them add their comments to the script if you feel that it will enhance it.

REMEMBER: "If it’s not for the boy, it’s for the birds."

Some boys are shy about performing. Try to help them out by inspiring their imagination, complementing their rehearsal performance, and, providing constructive criticism when needed. Don’t expect them to be professional actors, just encourage them to do their best.

We thoroughly hope that you enjoy this section as much as we enjoyed putting it together. If you come across a good skit, don’t hide them, but share them at next year’s POW-WOW!

Greater Cleveland Council Pow Wow 1993

 

LET’S MAKE UP A SKIT

 Month:

 Theme:

I. Plot:            

II. Title:            

III. Type of Characters: (puppets or boys in costume)                       

IV. Length of time:           

V. Staging: (lighting, special effects, scenery)               

VI. Characters:                    

VII. Location or setting of skit:         

VIII. Problems to overcome:          

IX. Obstacles:           

X. Crisis:            

XI. Ending:            

XII. Does skit fit audience?

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

NARRATOR SKITS and PANTOMIMES

These skits are ideal for younger boys, since they rely on a NARRATOR to read the text while the boys do the acting. The degree of acting varies widely, from walking on stage carrying a sign (Do you Have a Cub Scout Garden?) to performing complex pantomimes of the action (The Reluctant Knight and the Magic Herb). Tiger Cubs or Webelos, you should find some fun skits here.

These skits are not necessarily easy, though, since there is greater need for props and scenery to get the point across to the audience. At the same time, the humor is frequently broad enough to appeal to all age groups, a real advantage at Pack meetings.

As with all skits in this book, you will see a variation in the amount of detail and direction provided, depending on the source of the skit. It is frequently helpful for the adult leaders to fill in the details, based on the body of the skit, to help the boys understand the point so they can convey it to the audience.

DO YOU HAVE A CUB SCOUT GARDEN?

This can be used as a skit or a ceremony. Have the boys make pictures of peas, lettuce, squash, and turnips with the key words printed on them. (Ex. Peas - preparedness, etc.) As the Narrator reads, have each boy walk out, show his vegetable and sit down in a row. Each row should be higher than the one in front so, when all signs are down they can all be seen.

HERE IS HOW TO PLANT A THRIVING, PRODUCTIVE CUB SCOUT GARDEN. ONE THAT ALL PARENTS WANT THEIR SONS TO GROW UP IN.

FIRST: Plant five rows of peas

1. Preparedness
2. promptness
3. Perseverance
4. Politeness
5. praise

SECOND: Plant five rows of lettuce

1. Let us be faithful
2. Let us be unselfish
3. Let us be loyal
4. Let us be truthful
5. Let us help one another

THIRD: Plant three rows of squash

1. Squash impatience
2. Squash criticism
3. Squash indifference

TO COMPLETE YOUR GARDEN: Plant three rows of turnips

1. Turn up for pack meetings
2. Turn up with a new idea
3. Turn up with determination

BUT WITHOUT MANY HOURS OF WORK AND CARE, YOUR GARDEN WILL NOT GROW, SO…

1. Don’t wait to be asked — Volunteer!
2. Don’t say "I can’t" — Do it!
3. Don’t wait for someone else — Be first!

WITHOUT THE HELP OF EVERY PERSON IN YOUR PACK, YOUR GARDEN WILL TURN TO WEEDS. SO HELP BUILD THE BACKGROUND, WORK THE SOIL, PULL THE WEEDS, AND SPREAD THE SUNSHINE OF "I HAVE DONE MY BEST."

Unknown Source

 

MAKING A CUB SCOUT
(An excellent opening for the induction of new Cub Scouts into the pack)

CHARACTERS: Child
Two Leaders
Two Parents

PROPS: You will need a large table for the child to lie on during the "operation."
The "doctor" can carry a large cardboard knife.
Props to be "removed" are tacked to back of table, out of sight.
Those to be "put in" can be placed nearby. (Props are listed where used.)

NARRATOR: We are about to instruct you in the method of making a Cub Scout. To complete this project, you will need one small eager boy, two interested parents, one patient Den Leader, and one courageous Cubmaster.

(Each character enters as his name is spoken. Boy wears uniform under a large loose-fitting shirt and climbs up on the table. Others don surgical masks. As the narrator continues, the operation proceeds, with Cubmaster acting as doctor. Den Leader and parents hand him the things to be put in and take the things removed. When the boy is hidden under a sheet, he removes his shirt.)

NARRATOR:  Cover him with fun and good times
(Hold up posters labeled "FUN" and "GOOD TIMES" and cover boy)

 We use laughing gas for anesthetic.
(Use a tire pump labeled "Laughing Gas.")

 Take out hate and put in Love.
(Hate - lump of paper, so labeled. Love - big paper heart, labeled).

 Take out selfishness, put in cooperation.
(Sign "I," sign "WE).

 Take out idle hands, put in busy fingers.
(Idle - empty rubber gloves. Busy - glove full of flour.)

 Take out laziness, put in ambition.
(Laziness - rag; Ambition - blown up balloon.)

 After this pleasant operation, we have a "CUB SCOUT."
(Remove the sheet. Boy, in uniform, stands up and gives the Cub Scout sign.)

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

 

HOW THE SUN. MOON. STARS GOT INTO THE SKY

Dress up all the boys as Indian Braves and assign four of them the following parts. Have the rest of the boys sit around a "campfire" and listen to the story.

CHARACTERS: CHIEF Stand with arms folded across chest and say "Ugh"
SUN Cover eyes with hands
MOON Frame face with hands and smile
STARS Blink rapidly

NARRATOR: Long, long ago the Indians had no fire and no light. They suffered much during the cold winter and they had to eat food uncooked. They also had to live in darkness because there was no light.

 There was no SUN, MOON, nor STARS in the sky. A great CHIEF kept them locked up in a box. He took great pride in the thought that he alone had light. This great CHIEF had a beautiful daughter of whom he was also proud. She was much beloved by all the Indians of the tribe.

 In those days, the raven had the powers of magic. He was a great friend of the Indians and the Indian CHIEF. He wondered how he might make life more comfortable for them.

 One day he saw the daughter of the CHIEF come down to the brook for a drink. He had an idea. He would put a magic spell on her. In time, a son was born to the daughter of the CHIEF. The old CHIEF was delighted and as the boy grew, his grandfather became devoted to him. Anything he wanted he could have.

 One day he asked the old CHIEF for the box containing the STARS. Reluctantly, the old CHIEF gave it to him. The child played for a while by rolling the box around. Then he released the STARS and flung them into the sky. The Indians were delighted. This was some light, though not quite enough.

 After a few days, the child asked for the box containing the MOON. Again the old CHIEF hesitated but finally the boy got what he wanted. Again, after playing awhile with the box, the boy released the MOON and flung it into the sky. The tribe members were overjoyed. But still there was not light enough, and the MOON disappeared for long periods.

 Finally, the child asked for the box with the SUN. "No," said the old CHIEF. "I cannot give you that." But the boy wept and pleaded. The old CHIEF could not stand the tears, so he gave the box to him. As soon as he had a chance, the child released the SUN and cast it into the sky.

 The joy of the Indians knew no bounds. Here was light enough and heat as well. They ordered a feast of the SUN and all the Indians celebrated it with great jubilation. And the old CHIEF was happy. He had not known the SUN, the MOON and the STARS could mean so much for the comfort and happiness of his people. And for the first time, he too, enjoyed himself.

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

A GENIUS IS THIS AND THAT

Here’s an audience participation skit - ideal for large group meetings or banquets. There is only one character - the narrator or story teller - and there is no rehearsal or scenery necessary. Just pick your narrator with care! He is the key to success.

Before he tells the story, the narrator divides the audience into 5 groups and assigns each a "part" - a sound and action each group makes at the mention of a certain word. The narrator pauses after each capitalized word. The words and their responses are:

CHARACTERS: NORMAN Say "Oh, my!" and raise both hands
RIGHT  Say "This!" and raise right hand
LEFT  Say "That!" and raise left hand
THIS  Say "Right!" and raise right hand
THAT  Say "Left!" and raise left hand
GENIUS All clap and Cheer!

Well, now that everyone is entirely confused, let’s begin!

NARRATOR: This is the story of NORMAN, a boy who wanted very much to be a GENIUS. But, no matter how hard he tried, it just didn’t work out. You see, NORMAN had a problem - he could not tell RIGHT from LEFT.

 At school, the teacher would say, "When you know the answer, raise your RIGHT hand." By the time NORMAN figured which hand was which, it was too late! At home it was the same thing. It was, "NORMAN, you have your LEFT shoe on your RIGHT foot."

 Things weren’t any better outside. In football, they would send him in at LEFT end and he would be RIGHT. In baseball, they’d yell, "NORMAN, ‘move to your LEFT!" He’d move RIGHT.

 Poor NORMAN! No matter what he did, it wasn’t RIGHT! or LEFT! But NORMAN was determined! Finally, he figured out what to do. He’d call it THIS and THAT. THIS for RIGHT and THAT for LEFT. Somehow, it all seemed easier. And in no time, he had it down pat.

 One day, while NORMAN was home alone, a burglar forced his way in. NORMAN was frightened! The burglar asked where his mother’s jewels and furs were. NORMAN said, "In the closet." But when the burglar said, "Which way is THAT, NORMAN, of course answered, "LEFT." The burglar followed these instructions and found himself in the kitchen! Being a smart burglar he said, "THIS isn’t RIGHT!" and NORMAN said, "Oh, yes it is - but your asked for THAT!"

 The burglar became angry and said, "Now listen, I asked where the closet is, do you understand THAT?" And NORMAN answered, "Oh, yes, THAT is LEFT!" The burglar said, "THIS is enough!" And NORMAN said, "Oh, no, THIS is RIGHT!" Exasperated, the burglar said, "Oh, forget it! Just tell me where the closet is!" And NORMAN said, "Turn THIS." But naturally, the burglar misunderstood and turned the knob on the door in front of him, and plunged headlong down the basement stairs.

 Just then, NORMAN’s parents came home, and when he told them what had happened, his father said the words he’d been waiting so very long to hear, "NORMAN, you’re a GENIUS"

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

THE LITTERBUG

CHARACTERS: PAPER Crackle-Crackle
TRASH  Dump-Dump
CANS Clatter-Clatter
LITTERBUG  Toss and Throw

NARRATOR: God put bugs in this world for many reasons.
He made them to live in every kind of season.

 But the pesky LITTERBUG with his PAPER and CAN,
was made through neglected TRASH by the foolish person.

 To keep America beautiful, get rid of the LITTERBUG,
so beach goers can again lounge on a clean sandy rug.

 Because of this pest, we must woller around,
In PAPER and CANS and TRASH all over the ground.

 Just who are these LITTERBUGS who mess up our land?
Do you ever really see them toss that PAPER and CAN?

 Quite often the LITTERBUG is a sneaky guy,
and at dumping his TRASH he’s oh so sly.

 So most of the time it just appears everywhere,
As if it had dropped right out of thin air.

 Could it be we are so used to throwing things here and there,
That we dump that PAPER and CAN without being aware?

 Without even thinking when we toss TRASH and waste,
We could be an unconscious LITTERBUG in all our haste.

 So when you unwrap that gum or small piece of candy,
Don’t throw the PAPER on the ground just ‘cause it’s handy.

 Next time stop and think when a pop CAN you toss,
Cause if you’re a LITTERBUG, it’s also your loss.

 So if every single person would take note of his habit,
That pesky LITTERBUG we could certainly nab it.

 Then that terrible bug we would surely stamp out,
With no more PAPER or CANS or TRASH about.

 To keep America beautiful, we must all do our part,
By taking care of our TRASH properly from the very start.

Back to Top

TONTO APPLAUSE

LEADER: Where does Tonto take his garbage?

BOYS: (in rhythm with the Lone Ranger tune while slapping thighs).
To de-dump, to de-dump, to de-dump dump dump

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

 

A CHRISTMAS STORY

CHARACTERS: HOUSE Hands over head in inverted "V"
SHED Hands in front of chest in inverted "V"
SLED Hands together as in praying, waving from left to right
REINDEER One hand, palm forward, at each side of head, thumbs touching temples
PACK Both hands over shoulder as if carrying a load
LITTLE GIRLS  All girls (young and old) stand up
LITTLE BOYS All boys (young and old) stand up
BOX Show dimensions with hands
LION Growl
DOLL Both hands as if praying at side of head, head slightly bent.
SOLDIER Give Cub Scout salute while standing at attention.
TRAIN Pump arm in circular motion.
SANTA CLAUS Pat stomach with both hands and say, "Ho, ho."

NARRATOR: Now let’s begin our story.

This is the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the SHED behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the SLED that is kept in the SHED behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

These are the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is old SANTA CLAUS who guides the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the BOX that is in the PACK all filled with toys for good LITTLE GIRLS and good LITTLE BOYS that is carried by old SANTA CLAUS who guides the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED that is behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the LION that frightened the DOLL that is in the BOX that is in the pack all filled with toys for good LITTLE BOYS and good LITTLE GIRLS that is carried by old SANTA CLAUS who guides the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED that is behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the SOLDIER that shot the LION that frightened the DOLL that is in the BOX that is in the PACK all filled with toys for good LITTLE GIRLS and good LITTLE BOYS that is carried by old SANTA CLAUS who guides the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED that is behind the HOUSE where SANTA CLAUS lives.

This is the TRAIN that runs on a track and carried the SOLDIER forward and back, who shot the LION that frightened the DOLL that was in the BOX that was in the PACK all filled with toys for good LITTLE GIRLS and good LITTLE BOYS that was carried by old SANTA CLAUS who guides the REINDEER that pull the SLED that is kept in the SHED that is behind the HOUSE where old SANTA CLAUS lives.

Now old Santa must be on his way. He has one parting thought for you parents. Work hard at Cub Scouting with your sons, and it will be like Christmas every day of the year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

 

OUT WHERE MEN ARE MEN:

Assign the following characters to different groups, then read or tell the story. As each character is mentioned, the proper group rises, makes the appropriate sounds and sits down.

CHARACTERS: COWBOY raises right fist and shouts "Yippee"
HORSE clap hands on knees
CHIEF RED JACKET taps palms on lips, says "Ki Yill"
 then puts hands over brow and peers all around.
MULE "Hee Haw!"
RATTLESNAKE "Rattle, Rattle!"
TIMBER WOLF wolf whistle
SHERIFF "Bang! Bang! Bang!"
DEPUTY SHERIFF "He went that away!"
 (points with both hands in different directions)

NARRATOR: Once upon a time, there was a COWBOY who went out on the Mojave Desert riding his HORSE.

 Far off in the distance he could hear the TIMBER WOLF. The COWBOY made camp and went fast asleep, after making sure his HORSE was secure.

 Now, creeping along through the desert came CHIEF RED JACKET and his MULE, Sitting Bull. He was pursued by the SHERIFF and the DEPUTY SHERIFF.

 In his pocket, CHIEF RED JACKET had a trained RATTLESNAKE whose name was Emma. The RATTLESNAKE, Emma, was trained to creep up and bite the COWBOY and his HORSE.

 While CHIEF RED JACKET crept up, the HORSE was afraid, the TIMBER WOLF howled, the COWBOY snored and Sitting Bull, the MULE, was eating cactus.

 In the meantime, the SHERIFF and the DEPUTY SHERIFF were almost ready to capture CHIEF RED JACKET.

 Just as Emma, the RATTLESNAKE, was about to bite the COWBOY and his HORSE, the SHERIFF and the DEPUTY SHERIFF sprang their trap. "Halt! You are all my prisoners," shouted the SHERIFF.

 The COWBOY woke up and mounted his HORSE. This frightened the TIMBER WOLF and also Emma, the RATTLESNAKE.

 Away went old CHIEF RED JACKET on his faithful MULE, Sitting Bull; and away in pursuit went the SHERIFF and the DEPUTY SHERIFF, the COWBOY and his HORSE.

 But old CHIEF RED JACKET led them into a blind canyon, so that was the last time anybody ever saw the COWBOY; his HORSE; Emma, the RATTLESNAKE; the TIMBER WOLF; Sitting Bull, the MULE; the SHERIFF; and the DEPUTY SHERIFF.

That’s all folks!!!!

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

 

THE KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER

This may be used as a den skit or as an audience participation skit. Select a capable narrator and five people (or split the audience into five groups), each to impersonate one character as he is mentioned in the story.

CHARACTERS: KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER "Grrrrrrrrrrr."
SHORT, FAT DAUGHTER "Ohoooooooooo."
TALL, THIN DAUGHTER (Whistle)
BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER "Hubba-Hubba."
HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE "Aahaaaaa."
FIERY STEED  (ALL Characters Slap Knees)

(Before you start, have each group make the sound effect for their character and encourage the participants to perform with gusto.)

NARRATOR: There once was a KING WITH A TERRIBLE TEMPER.

 He had three daughters, a SHORT FAT DAUGHTER, a TALL THIN DAUGHTER, and a BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER.

 In a nearby country, there lived a HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE.

 One bright spring day, this HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE rode his FIERY STEED up to the castle of the KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER; "I have come to seek a wife from among your three daughters!"

 The KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER first presented his oldest, the SHORT FAT DAUGHTER. "She would eat too much," said the HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE.

 Then the KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER presented his second daughter, the TALL THIN DAUGHTER. "No, she is too tall for me. I cannot marry your SHORT FAT DAUGHTER or your TALL THIN DAUGHTER."

 Just then, on the stairway appeared the BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER. Rapture filled the heart of the HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE. "I will take your BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER."

 His words enraged the KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER. "Call out the guards," he thundered, "turn out this impostor."

 But the HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE immediately seized the willing BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER, and with her in his arms, rushed out of the castle, jumped onto his FIERY STEED, and rode away.

 When the guards appeared, all they could see was a cloud of dust raised by the hoofs of the FIERY STEED as the HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE and the BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER disappeared in the distance.

 So ends the romantic tale of the KING WITH THE TERRIBLE TEMPER, and his SHORT FAT DAUGHTER, his TALL THIN DAUGHTER, his BEAUTIFUL YOUNG DAUGHTER, and the HANDSOME YOUNG PRINCE with the FIERY STEED.

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

WHAT MAKES A LEADER
(Banquet Skit)

CAST: Master of Ceremonies (EMCEE)
COMPUTER OPERATORS
Attendees at the Banquet

PROPS: Computer made from cardboard box with large slot so a large cardboard figure can fit.
A piece of paper on each table at the banquet
Cardboard figure of AKELA

(Attendees at each table list the three qualities they think are most important for a leader. A representative of each table brings his table’s list up and gives it to the EMCEE.)

EMCEE: (Reads each sheet and places it in the computer through the slot. When the EMCEE reads off a duplication of quality, as there is bound to be, he stresses the importance of that quality.)

EMCEE: (After lists from all tables have been read)
Now the computer can take all the information and come up with a good leader.

(The EMCEE turns the dials, presses the buttons and spins the tape reels. The operators inside the computer provide computer noises, flash the lights and rock the computer. Finally, they push a large cardboard figure through the slot.

EMCEE: The computer has done it! It has given us a leader with all these qualities and here he is - AKELA!

(The EMCEE holds the cardboard figure of AKELA beside him.

 

Back to Top

 

THE HAPPY HIKERS

NARRATOR: We’re going on a hike. Just do what I do and listen carefully. (Begin walking in place)

 Here we go on a hike through the woods and over the mountains. Come along with me. (smile, wave to group, and hike in place)

 We’re coming to a steep hill. (bend over as if climbing)

 Now we’re on top. What a lovely view! (shade eyes and look around)

 Now, we’ll have to go down. (move hand like going down a roller coaster and say "swoosh")

 Boy, we’re out of breath. (breathe heavily)

 Now, we’re passing through a meadow. (hike in place)

 What’s that I see? (stop, look to one side)

 It’s a rabbit! And a meadowlark. (look up)

 And a bumble bee! (run swiftly in place, waving arms as if fighting off a bee)

 We’re happy hikers. (hike in place)

 We’re happy because of the beautiful mountains we see (shade eyes and smile)

 and because of all that clean fresh air we are breathing (breathe heavily)

 and especially because we got away from the buzzing bee. (smile, turn head to look behind you and wave "bye" to bee)

 Now we’re getting tired. (slow pace, walk droopily)

 There’s what we need! (point)

 A cool refreshing drink from the river. (pick up pace, kneel down and scoop water to mouth)

 Ahhh, how refreshing. Let’s be on our way, (hike in place)

 Now let’s try to jump over the river without getting our feet wet. (take big step, get feet wet, shake them off)

 Oh, well, don’t feel too bad about not making it. That was a wide river. At least we have cool toes. (shake feet again)

 We’d better stop for lunch. (stop, reach in pocket, bring out sandwich, start eating, take handkerchief from pocket, wipe mouth, replace handkerchief, resume hiking in place)

 Ummmm, that feels better. Look, there’s a lovely lake. (point)

 Let’s swim across. (swim strokes)

 That was great! (resume hiking in place)

 Look at that crooked trail ahead. (point)

 It’s nothing but twists and turns. (continue hiking -- twisting and turning)

 I’m glad that’s over. I was getting dizzy. (stagger)

 Looks like we have come to the end of the trail. (stop)

 What do we do now? Are you tired? (shake head YES!)

 So am I. (sit down, wipe brow.)

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

 

DARING SAILORMEN

CHARACTERS: 10 SAILORS (the play opens with the 1st settler on stage)

(A NARRATOR reads the verses aloud while the SAILORS perform actions quickly and briefly.)

NARRATOR: One daring sailorman sailed the ocean blue
(a player marches on-stage, faces audience, steers ship)
Along came a friend of his and so there were two!
(second player enters, they exchange greetings, stand alongside each other)

 Two daring sailormen sailed the stormy sea
(both steer at wheel while holding tight and swaying)
They called and called for extra help and so there were three!
(as they call with cupped hands a third player joins them)

 Three daring sailormen stepped upon the shore
(players step forward, march in place)
And when the three stepped back again, the three had turned to four!
(as the three step back to original positions a fourth player joins them)

 Four daring sailormen did a fancy dive
(they make diving motions)
They looked so fine and fancy that soon there were five!
(fifth player enters, looks in admiration, joins them)

 Five daring sailormen fished with crooked sticks
(they pretend to fish)
Their dinner was so tasty, very soon there were six!
(as they pretend to eat a sixth player joins them)

 Six daring sailormen opened up a door
(they face wing and pretend to open doors)
In jumped another friend, so there was one more!
(seventh player jumps in)

 Seven daring sailormen all began to skate
(all pretend to skate)
It looked so much like lots of fun that their number came to eight!
(eighth player skates on stage)

 Eight daring sailormen all stood in a line
(they line up at attention)
And before they knew it, the line had stretched to nine.
(ninth player quickly enters to join end of line)

 Nine daring sailormen wondered where they’d been
(they shade eyes with hands and gaze outward)
Someone came to tell them, and that made ten!
(tenth player enters, gestures outward)

 Ten daring sailormen all went swimming for fun
(all make swimming movements)
And so they swam and swam and swam, until at last there were none!
(they swim offstage)

Lancaster Lebanon Council Pow Wow Guide 1990

Back to Top

THE RELUCTANT KNIGHT AND THE MAGIC HERB
(A Pantomime Skit)

CHARACTERS: KNIGHTS at least two in appropriate costume
SIR QUAKE-A-LOT a seedy-looking knight with bent sword
MESSENGER pageboy type
MAGICIAN Merlin-type with white hair, beard and flowing robe
LADY GWENDOLYN long robe, conical headdress with veil

SETTING: Courtyard outside medieval castle. Courtyard is center left of stage, with woods indicated at right front. Road to Black Knight’s castle is right rear.

NARRATOR stands to one side of stage. As he narrates, the characters enter, pantomime and exit.

NARRATOR:	In days of yore, so we’ve been told Maids were fair and warriors bold. And when two Knights in battle sent They’d laugh and soon be friends again	(Knights on horseback enter from opposite sides; battle, knock each other down, laugh, get up and slap each other on their backs.)
	But there was one unknightly Knight With rusty sword, who wouldn’t fight He’d shiver and he’d shake a lot; So he was called Sir Quake-a-Lot And though he had no hope to win, He loved the Lady Gwendolyn.	(Enter Sir Quake-a-Lot . Others try to battle him. He shakes and tries to protect himself and faints. Gwendolyn enters, walks across and exits. All knights sigh. Quake revives, sighs the most.)
	One day a Messenger arrived, Who was more dead than was alive. "The Lady Gwendolyn" he gasped, "Has fallen into the Black Knight’s grasp. Which of you knights will be the braver? Who will go and try to save her?"	(Messenger staggers on stage. Knights rush to help. He pantomimes message; when he asks who will go, they point to each other. Quake stands and watches.)
	And then a voice with a slight quaver Said "I will be the one to save her" The other knights sigh in relief – Then stare at Quake with disbelief. "His brain has kinks, methinks" one said. "This lad hath holeth in his head."	(Sir Quake-a-Lot flourishes sword; pantomimes saving her. Other knights point at him, laugh, slap their knees in laughter. Quake exits to the woods.)
	As Quake-a-Lot approached the wood, He passed where a magician stood. He asked the magician to make him brave. The Magician said "‘Tis this herb you crave; Eat once a week forever more Thou wilt be coward nevermore."	(Quake gallops to woods, where magician enters. They pantomime and magician points to green bush Quake picks and eats from bush.)
	As quick, he did partake a lot, A change came over Quake-a-Lot. His biceps swelled, he beat his chest, His crooked sword, he neatly pressed. Into the wood to save his Gwen, And soon was heard a knightly din.	(Quake becomes strong man, beats on chest, bends sword straight, rushes off stage where mighty sounds of battle are heard.)
	Back at Court, the knights mourned Quake When battle sounds the ground did shake. But suddenly to their surprise, Two figures came before their eyes. The lovely Gwen on Quake’s right arm, And Quake, the warrior, safe from harm.	(Battle sounds off stage. Knights listen, shake heads sadly, weep and blow noses into lacy handkerchiefs. Enter Gwen and Quake in shiny armor with bright sword.)
	The Knights ran forth and did proclaim That Quake should have a brand new name. Sir Sag-no-More’s his brand new start; Then Lady Gwen gave him her heart. Then all in merriment did feast and laugh, And all lived happily ever aft.	(Knights run to Quake, present him with a sign saying "Sag-no-More." Gwen hands him a paper heart. All sit on floor and pantomime a feast, joined by magician.)
	If you’d adore to Sag-no-More, We’ll warn you at the finish; Don’t wish for a magician Just always eat your spinach.	Edited from Pack-o-Fun Magazine

Otetiana Council Pow Wow 1978
Back To Top  

BLUE AND GOLD

CHARACTER: BANQUET Let’s Eat (Rub Tummies)
CUBMASTER Signs Up!!! (Cub Scout Sign)
CUB SCOUT Yippee!!!! (Jump Up And Down)
DEN LEADER Oh Dear! (Hand On Top Of Head)
DEN DAD Not Again!!!! (Hands To Side Of Head)
PARENTS Us Too!!! (Points To Self)
COMMITTEE
CHAIRMAN Thank Heaven!!! (Hands To Ceiling)

NARRATOR: Blue and Gold time has come again. CUB SCOUTS and DEN LEADERS had to come up with ideas for the BANQUET to please the CUBMASTER.

 They also had to stay within their budget to the COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN’s delight.

 They made invitations for the PARENTS and the center pieces for the table with the help of the DEN DAD.

 When they arrived at the BANQUET, the PARENTS were happy with the decoration the CUB SCOUTS had made.

 When the awards were presented, the DEN DADS and the DEN LEADERS and the COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN were also rewarded.

 Everyone decided it was the nicest Blue and Gold BANQUET that they had had so far.

Long Rivers Council Pow Wow 1992

Back to Top

TRAVEL HORIZONS

In this narrated skit, five boys pantomime and carry props representing different kinds of travel. Props may be made from cardboard. As each paragraph is read, the appropriate prop is displayed and moved across stage. At closing, all props are brought back and placed together as final paragraph is read, by all boys together. Costuming would add interest, but is not necessary.

NARRATOR:	Here’s a fact that we should all face, A trait of the whole human race, To long to be Free, to travel and see New horizons at each interesting place.
	When you go on a trip, you’ll need to decide, On which method of travel that you will ride, But one thing we’re sure, that you will endure, And your horizons will grow very wide.
	A man who was rather a dreamer, Always traveled around on a steamer; When he took a trip, he went only by ship, It suited his courtly demeanor.	(Boy enters with cardboard streamer and carries it across stage)
	For this ride you may have a knack, Which unfortunately, most of us lack, Back and forth you will sway, as you ride on your way, Seated high on an elephant’s back.	(Boy enters in elephant costume, or with cardboard elephant and sways across the stage)
	There once was a man, so we’re told, Who had to pass through snow and cold, When all else did fail, he took a sled with a sail, And his trip was a joy to behold.	(Boy enters with sled which has sail on it, and moves it across stage)
	In blizzards or wintry gales, going this way almost never fails, In sunshine or rain, depend on a train, Chugging merrily over the rails.	(Boy enters with cardboard train and chugs a cross stage)
	Before planes or trips to the moon, Some travelers took a balloon, They all waved good-bye, as they rose in the sky, But they came back that same afternoon.	(Boy enters with card board balloon - large and carries it across stage)
	All: Now folks if we’ve set you on fire, And new horizons are your burning desire, With no more delay, step right up and say, Which vehicle you want to hire.	- Adapted from Pack-o-Fun Magazine

Otetiana Council Pow Wow 1978

Back to Top

 

WHAT ARE CUB SCOUTS MADE OF?

This may be used as a reading or a skit. To use as a skit have a narrator who pauses to let the Cubs pantomime their parts.

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts are made of 8, 9, and 10 year old boys.
(Enter 3 Cubs, one saying "I’m 8," one saying "I’m 9," and one Saying "I’m 10.")

NARRATOR: Some are solemn and wide-eyed.
(Enter 2 Cubs, one saying "I’m Solemn," one saying "I’m wide-eyed.")

NARRATOR. Some are wiggly and giggly
(Enter 2 Cubs, one saying, "I’m wiggly," and one saying "I’m giggly.")

NARRATOR: They come in two varieties, Cubs and Webelos.
(Enter 2 Cubs enter saying, "I’m a Cub," one saying "I’m a Webelos.")

(You may vary the number of Cubs by having more than one come in and say the line together.)

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts love…
Making noise:   (Cubs do Grand Howl)
Competition:   (Cubs pair up, arm wrestle, leg wrestle)
Getting Awards:   (Cubs point proudly to badges on uniforms)
Singing silly songs:  (Cubs sing one verse of favorite song)
Games:   (Cubs do a crab race)
Making things:   (Cubs pantomime hammering and sawing)
And just getting together:  (Cubs huddle around each other)

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts dislike…
People who forget the refreshments:  (Cubs make a crying face)
Being still:   (Cubs all wiggle)
Lining up:   (Cubs attempt to line up but mainly mill around)
And being called sweet:  (All Cubs make faces)

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts are fastest at…
Voting for field trips:  (Raise hands and Shout "yea, yea")
Eating refreshments:  (All pantomime stuffing refreshments
  into mouth)
And getting to the head of the line:  (All try to be the first in line)

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts are quietest at…
A flag ceremony:  (All salute and repeat pledge).
And waiting for the Cubby announcement.

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts are most important…
While doing good deeds:  (Cubs show Scouting-for-Food bags)
And doing community service:  (Show a poster)

NARRATOR: Cub Scouts are the basic ingredients for two special things.
They are what justifies the time a volunteer leader gives…
And Cub Scouts are what Boy Scouts are made of.

Otetiana Council Pow Wow 1981

Back to Top

A DRIVER’S DILEMMA
(A Pantomime)

CHARACTERS: A Cub Scout and his friend

PROPS: 2 chairs for the car

(The Cub and his friend are sitting on the chairs. They go through the motions as the narrator reads.)

NARRATOR: Cub Scout John and his friend one day Went for a ride in his Chevrolet	(Pretend driving)
His friend was cool, his name was Frank But he is what you might call, a crank.	(Cub leans over and pushes starter button)
It’s just too bad he wasn’t a little smarter ‘Cause he doesn’t know how to work the starter.
John showed him how, the little dear And also how to shift the gear.	(Pretend moving gear)
Away they went but something broke ‘Twas just a measly little spoke.	(Jump out fast and look at wheel. Fix tire - jump back In)
He fixed it with a piece of wire Then something popped – it was a tire.	(Work fast to change tire, then back to chairs)
‘Twas mended soon, but next ker-plunk They struck a branch and smashed the top.	(Duck with hands over head)
"Dear me" shouted Frank. "That’s too much" Then something happened to the