Title of the play: Australia: A Journey Through Time
Author: Georgina Gimenez
Characters:
- Character 1
- Character 2
- Character 3
- Character 4
- Character 5
- Character 6
- Character 7
SINGLE ACT
Setting: A classroom with a large map of Australia on the wall. There are props like a didgeridoo, a boomerang, a small British flag, a toy kangaroo, and a small Australian flag. The children are excited to share what they’ve learned about Australia’s history.
Character 1:
(Standing in front of the map)
G’day, mates! Today, we’re taking a journey through the amazing history of Australia! Ready to explore?
All Characters:
Yeah!
Character 2:
Let’s start at the beginning! Australia’s history goes back over 60,000 years! The first Australians were the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They lived in harmony with the land and had rich cultures and traditions.
Character 3:
(Holding a didgeridoo)
They had their own music and instruments like the didgeridoo! They used storytelling, art, and dance to pass down their history and beliefs.
Character 4:
(Holding a boomerang)
And let’s not forget about the boomerang! They used it for hunting. Australia’s Indigenous peoples are some of the oldest continuous cultures in the world!
Character 5:
Then, in 1770, something happened that would change Australia forever. An English explorer named Captain James Cook landed on the east coast. He claimed the land for Britain and called it New South Wales.
Character 6:
(Holding a small British flag)
In 1788, the First Fleet arrived in Botany Bay. These were 11 ships carrying convicts from Britain. Australia became a penal colony, where prisoners were sent to start a new life.
Character 7:
(Holding a toy kangaroo)
But Australia is more than just its colonial past! The gold rush in the 1850s brought people from all over the world to seek their fortune. It changed the economy and brought diversity to the land!
Character 1:
(Pointing to the map)
By 1901, Australia became a federation, uniting six colonies into one nation under the name “Commonwealth of Australia.” It was a huge step towards independence!
Character 2:
(Holding a small Australian flag)
Australia continued to grow, with cities like Sydney and Melbourne becoming bustling hubs. And who can forget iconic symbols like the kangaroo, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Sydney Opera House?
Character 3:
(Excitedly)
Australia is known for its unique wildlife too! Kangaroos, koalas, emus, and platypuses, just to name a few. It’s a country full of life and adventure!
Character 4:
And did you know that Australia played a major role in both World War I and World War II? ANZAC Day honors the bravery of Australian and New Zealand soldiers.
Character 5:
(Thoughtfully)
Today, Australia is a vibrant, multicultural nation. People from all over the world call Australia home, making it a land of diverse cultures and traditions.
Character 6:
And let’s not forget about Australia’s Indigenous peoples, who continue to share their culture, history, and stories, helping us understand the importance of caring for the land.
Character 7:
(With a smile)
Australia is a place where the past and the present come together, creating a bright future for everyone!
Character 1:
(Holding the Australian flag high)
From ancient times to today, Australia’s story is one of adventure, resilience, and unity. And that’s what makes Australia so special!
All Characters:
Here’s to Australia, where our story keeps growing!
THE END