Minimal Set Requirements
Great theatre does not require elaborate sets.
This collection of exciting plays for schools and theatres features plays that can be produced with little to no set.
Browse our selection below and read every play script for free!
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Queens (one-act)
Length: 40-45 minutesCast Size: 9-35 actors (suggested casting: 6F, 2M, 7 any)Genre: DramaSynopsis:
King Henry VIII is trapped in purgatory, bound to his throne by a sinister Fool and the ghostly Women in White. Here in his gilded cage, he is forced to relive the sins he committed against his queens, mistresses and people of the court, over and over again, for an eternity. (A full-length version of this play is also available.) -
Queens
Length: 90 minutesCast Size: 10-35 actors (suggested casting: 7F, 2M, 7 any)Genre: DramaSynopsis:
King Henry VIII is trapped in purgatory, bound to his throne by a sinister Fool and the ghostly Women in White. Here in his gilded cage, he is forced to relive the sins he committed against his queens, mistresses and people of the court, over and over again, for an eternity. (A one-act version of this play is also available.) -
A Night Under the Stars
Length: 90-100 minutesCast Size: 8-31 actors (suggested casting: 15 any)Genre: Dramedy, ComedySynopsis:
The great outdoors…for some this is a place of peace and tranquility and for others it’s…well…a little messy. A Night Under the Stars is a story about people—people looking to get away from it all, people looking to connect…with nature, with one another, and with the undeniable human spirit that overcomes obstacles, no matter what is thrown our way. And whether it’s attempting to mak... -
A Night Under the Stars (one-act)
Length: 40-45 minutesCast Size: 8-17 actors (suggested casting: 17 any)Genre: Dramedy, ComedySynopsis:
The great outdoors…for some this is a place of peace and tranquility and for others it’s…well…a little messy. A Night Under the Stars is a story about people—people looking to get away from it all, people looking to connect…with nature, with one another, and with the undeniable human spirit that overcomes obstacles, no matter what is thrown our way. And whether it’s attempting to mak... -
Holiday Party
Length: 30-35 minutesCast Size: 3-15 actors (suggested cast size: 3F, 3M, 3 any)Genre: ComedySynopsis:
Make yourself at home—Evelyn’s annual holiday partyis always warm, welcoming, and full of surprises. Youmight meet a pair of wallflowers finding connection in thecorner, a pair of elves whose friendship is devolving intobitter rivalry, or a couple sharing a guest room with theirhost’s improbable menagerie of pets. A sweet one-acttreat for the holidays. -
Elephant/Man
Length: 100 minutesCast Size: 8-30+ actors (suggested casting: 2F, 2M, 8 any)Genre: DramaSynopsis:
The story of Joseph Merrick (a.k.a. The Elephant Man) comes to life in this highly theatrical retelling featuring an ensemble of performers that share the role of Merrick. Whether on a bare stage or with an elaborate set, this adaptable play shines the spotlight on the vivid inner life of Joseph Merrick, and his relationship with the good Dr. Treves. This classic story of the ultimate outcast feel... -
The Littlefield Gazette Does Not End Today
Length: 80-90 minutesCast Size: 10-18 actors (suggested casting: 2F, 2M, 14 any)Genre: Dramedy, ComedySynopsis:
Something is different about the company picnic this year. After 126 years woven into the fabric of this small town, the Littlefield Gazette is closing its doors. For the staff, this is the last hurrah: the perfect time to tell a secret, confess feelings for someone, plan a new future. What could they mean to each other now? And while we’re at it, who brought the best pie? This ri... -
Spoon River
Length: 75-90 minutesCast Size: 8-50 actors (suggested casting: 17F, 23M)Genre: DramaSynopsis:
Former citizens of a mythical Midwestern town speak from the grave of the day-to-day hopes and dreams of their lives. Touching, anguished, and contemptuous, their voices and stories weave together in this fresh new take on a modern American classic. You won't forget what you've heard from these distinctively small-town folk as they evoke universal themes of hope, despair, and love. (A one-act ver... -
Instructions for Hugs
Length: 30-35 minutesCast Size: 7-25 actors (suggested casting: 1F, 20 any)Genre: ComedySynopsis:
After isolating at home for what feels like forever, Sunny is finally ready to go out into the world again to see a friend’s play. Except...maybe she’s not. Maybe she has forgotten how to do simple things like smile, and greet a friend, and hug someone. Maybe she should just stay inside on her comfy couch, and eat beef jerky with Brandon, the embodiment of her need to isolate. Fortunately for... -
The Last Cookie
Length: 10 minutesCast Size: 2 actors (2 any)Genre: ComedySynopsis:
Bri and Lou are roommates and friends. But those bonds are tested when they find themselves stuck at home with only one remaining, delicious cookie. The Last Cookie is a sweet, and funny story about friendship. This play is part of the short play collection Ten(ish): Comedies.