SCRIPT PREVIEW THE GRAND SLAM SCRIPT NEWSFLASH ONE (The Australian Open is about to begin. It is the Opening Ceremony. This scene reveals the news desk to stage right which is revisited throughout the show with newsreader Dennis Ball. On stage left is the journalist Liv For-­‐Sport who is interviewed via satellite throughout the show from this stage position but in various locations – for Newsflash One, she is being interviewed in Federation Square. All of the other cast members can be on stage ready for Scene One. They can either be behind a curtain if you have the facilities or standing still in dim light.) (For each newsflash, Dennis Ball is stationed at a news desk on stage right while Liv For-­‐
Sport is crossing live from an event on stage left. Both should take on the stereo-­‐typical character of a newsreader or journalist consumed with their own ambition and using props such as microphones, clipboards etc.) Sound Effect: Newsflash -­‐ Track 1 (Rehearsal), Track 39 (Performance) Dennis Ball: Good evening, welcome to the NTV7 News. I’m Dennis Ball. Well, what an exciting evening that approaches as I speak. The Asia Pacific Australian Open will be starting any moment now and our reporter Liv For-­‐Sport is at the scene…where the biggest sports tournament in the Asia Pacific region is held …we’ll cross to her now in Federation Square, Melbourne…Good evening, Liv. Liv For-­‐Sport: Good evening Dennis. The atmosphere here in Federation Square is electric! You just wouldn’t believe the energy Dennis. There is an approximate of 40,000 people here in Rod Laver arena and probably another 50,000 in Federation Square….lots of tennis fans, Dennis. The Opening Ceremony is about to begin and I’m just so excited right now…This is Liv For-­‐Sport reporting for NTV7 News in Melbourne. Dennis. Dennis: Thanks Liv and now we cross to the footage of the Opening Ceremony. (Lights dim, newsflash concludes.) Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 2 (Rehearsal), Track 40 (Performance) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. SCENE ONE – OPENING SCENE (Jim Who-­‐You-­‐Are begins the Opening Ceremony for the Australian Open in Rod Laver Arena. The crowd is gathered in the arena with Jim as well as the team of Australian Tennis Champions. The Australian Open Trophy will be brought out and Australian flags or banners supporting tennis players could be held by the cast members acting as the audience.) Sound Effect: Medal ceremony -­‐ Track 3 (Rehearsal), Track 41 (Performance) Jim Who-­‐You-­‐Are: Welcome to the home of Australian Tennis, welcome to the home of the first Grand Slam for the year, welcome to the Asia Pacific Grand Slam, the Australian Open!!! (Applause – all on stage as well as in the audience – Jim should encourage the audience to applaud) Jim: Now when I was a boy, I was in a choir and I’d like you to please welcome children from the Australian Children’s Choir who will be singing the National Anthem for the Opening Ceremony. They will sing this as the Australian Open Trophy is brought out yet again to signify what the tennis players will be vying for over the coming days. Of course, it will also be symbolising the beginning of the international grand slam tennis season, starting here in the Asia Pacific region… (Applause – all on stage as well as in the audience – Jim should encourage the audience to applaud) Jim: I once carried a trophy out to an opening ceremony but tonight we must also pay tribute to Stacey Yell-­‐At-­‐Ya as the Tennis Australia Ambassador bringing out the trophy tonight. Stacey is an up and coming champion of the game and has the honor of carrying out the trophy tonight. Stacey: (Yelling as she starts to bring out large trophy) HOW YA GOIN’? (Applause – all on stage as well as in the audience – Jim should encourage the audience to applaud.) Jim: I also have the other five Tennis Australia Ambassadors standing with me for the Opening Ceremony. Everyone, please help me by welcoming our champions, Lleyton Knewitt, how are you Lleyton? Lleyton: I’m feeling good thanks, Jim. How are you? Jim: Yes, I’m feeling good too, thanks Lleyton Knewitt. Lleyton: Yes, I thought you were. Jim: Er, ok. Thanks. And ladies and gentlemen, let’s welcome Sam Knows-­‐Yer. Are you looking forward to the Australian Open, Sam? Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Sam: You knows I am, Jim. You knows as well as anyone. Sam Knows you and you know Sam. Jim: Thanks Sam Knows-­‐Yer. And introducing one of Australia’s all-­‐time favourites, Matt Cash! How are you feeling tonight Matt? Matt: (Rubbing hands together) I’m feeling lucky, Jim. What about you? Fancy a bet? Jim: Er, that’s against the rules Matt. You can’t be making cash at an event you’re involved in… Matt: Is that right, Jim? Jim: Well, let’s just talk about it later, eh? I’ll talk to you about this backstage ok? Matt: (Suddenly realizes they can do something corrupt) Oh yeah. I get it. See you out the back! Jim: Sorry about that ladies and gentlemen…now on with the show and introducing Pat Laughter! Pat how are you this evening? Pat: (Giggling nervously) Oh, Jim. I’m feeling pretty happy. It’s kind of funny but this tournament just brings out the best in so many of us…don’t you think Jim? Jim: Well, when I was a champion of the game I found it a little bit funny but please do tell us what you mean? Pat: I mean, you just keep telling us how amazing you were and I just find that a bit funny!! (Bursts out laughing) Jim: Er, whatever gets you through the night, Pat. Haha (Sarcastically). Ladies and gentlemen, our final Australia Tennis ambassador for me to introduce you to tonight is… Alicia Colic. (Applause) Alicia: G’day everyone. (Cough, cough) Jim: Alicia, is known as one of our friendliest sportswomen ever. I believe I am also known in that way but how are you Alicia? Alicia: I’m good thanks Jim. Just glad to be here in ….er…er… Jim: Rod Laver Arena? Alicia: Yes, that’s right. (Cough, cough) Jim: And now we come to me, Jim Who-­‐You-­‐Are. I am also one of Australia’s favourite sons and I am so pleased to be that and to be here sharing this evening with you. Yes, I am feeling good -­‐ I know you would ask if you could. Welcome everyone. I promise to share this event with you with all my might. (Gets the audience to applaud) And again, welcome Stacey and welcome children from the Australian Children’s Choir …. WELCOME … ALL!!!! Please stand for the Australian National Anthem. (He can even get the audience to stand) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Song: The Australian National Anthem – Track 4 (Rehearsal), Track 42 (Performance) Australians all let us rejoice, For we are young and free; We've golden soil and wealth for toil; Our home is girt by sea; Our land abounds in nature's gifts Of beauty rich and rare; In history's page, let every stage Advance Australia Fair. In joyful strains then let us sing, Advance Australia Fair. Sound Effect: Villain – Track 5 (Rehearsal), Track 43 (Performance) (Villain runs through at end point of song; stealing trophy out of Stacey’s hands, everybody gasps for three seconds, followed by silence/freeze with hands in the air, over mouth etc. looking shocked. Lights could flash if you have the facilities, dim then spot light back on newsreader Dennis Ball – stage right – and journalist Liv For-­‐Sport – stage left -­‐ while all on stage remain in tableaux. If you do not have spotlights just dim all the lights then lift them again for the newsreaders while all other cast members stay as still as possible in their ‘shocked’ poses.) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. NEWSFLASH TWO Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 6 (Rehearsal) Track 44 (Performance) Dennis: Liv, Livvy… are you there? It seems we have just seen a spectacular and unprecedented act where somebody, somehow has stolen the Australian Open Trophy! Liv, are you ok, are you there? Liv: Yes, Dennis I am here. Look it all just happened so quickly and I’m just feeling a little flustered right now – just bear with me….Yes Dennis, it’s pandemonium down here in Rod Laver Arena this evening…I’ve got to go now…try to find out what’s happening… Dennis: But Liv, are you go – ing t-­‐o –b-­‐e o-­‐k-­‐? (Satellite connection breaking up) Liv: Sorry Dennis, you’re cutting out now, are you there, I’ve got to go…I can’t hear you…uh…um…this is Liv For-­‐Sport, signing off from the Australian Open Opening Ceremony…for NTV7. (Liv exits in a flustered manner.) Dennis: Livia!! Uh hum. (Composes himself) Well, let’s just hope Ms For-­‐Sport is ok folks. We will bring you any developments as they come to hand. Until then please stay with your friendly station, NTV7. This report is brought to you by sugary cola drink, helping you enjoy life. (Lights dim, newsflash concludes.) Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 7 (Rehearsal) Track 45 (Performance) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. SCENE TWO – WHAT TO DO? (During this scene, there is panic after the stealing of the trophy.) (Lights increase on stage and all start miming as though in shock at what has just happened, including Liv who is wandering around looking confused.) Alicia: Oh my goodness what happened? (Cough, cough) Lleyton: Someone stole the flame. (Stacey approaches the other tennis players, panicking.) Stacey: Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry there was nothing I could do ….it’s GONE!!!! Pat: It’s gone? (Giggling nervously, in disbelief) Sam: It sure is gone, mate. Jim: Yes, yes, it’s gone but what are we going to do about it? We can’t send any of the security crew from the arena out to look for the trophy, we still need them here – the trophy could be taken anywhere….let’s just hope this villain doesn’t destroy the trophy…it means so much to the tennis world! Lleyton: You know, the villain will be expecting the Star Force to come after him / her….let me think ….we need to send a search party that is unexpected, unprecedented, unknown…like the villain himself / herself. Matt: Oh, I just can’t believe this has happened…the media is going to be all over it. You know guys, they might do some paid interviews… Pat: Well, they don’t call you Matt Cash for nothing! (Laughs hysterically at his own joke) Alicia: It’s ok…it wasn’t your fault (to Stacey who is looking extremely worried and panicked) we all thought everyone would respect a special event like this…. Stacey: Who would do such a thing…? Lleyton: (Matter of fact) My thoughts lead me to conclude that I would say it is probably someone who’s given up hope. Sam: Or someone who is trying to make a point about something…? Lleyton: By George, she’s right! Jim: Well, what do you suggest we do about it? Pat: Funnily enough (giggle) I agree with the idea about sending unexpected detectives to look for the trophy….and I suggest you send us. (Giggles even more as though it is very funny) Jim: What do you mean? The Australian Champions Team? Alicia: Oh no, I don’t think that’s a good idea….(cough cough) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Jim: You’ve got to be joking… Pat: That sounds good to me. (Laughs again) Sam: Look seriously, I know you all think we’re just tennis players but I believe we have all the skills that will be needed to catch this guy / person. Jim: What do you mean? Sam: Well, we’re not just good at tennis. Lleyton: That’s right. I’m really good at facts. Stacey: I’ve got a voice that can be heard for miles. Pat: And I’ve got a great sense of humor. Do you think or do you think I’m joking? (Laughs madly) Sam: Me, I’m a little more serious and I’m really good at getting to knows-­‐yer, that’s why I am known as Sam Knows-­‐Yer. Get it? Alicia: Well, me. I’m just really friendly which could help us find this guy. We’re going to have to search high and low. Matt: And ladies and gentlemen, I’m sure you already know (slicks hair arrogantly) I’m Matt Cash and I’m pretty good at everything…including making a buck…which we will need if we’re going to catch this guy! Jim: This is a desperate situation…we can’t start the Australian Open without the Australian Open trophy…and desperate times call for desperate measures. I’ve just had a message through from the officials… (touches hand to ear as though he can hear through radio fitted to his ear) You can go, you’re multi-­‐talented as you say, (looks to audience) aren’t they? Now look, …just take these credit cards, this cash (Matt pushes in and takes the cash and cards), these ID’s….I’m not coping…I hope you find the trophy guys or I am out of a job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’ve got to go….has anyone got a phone…..I need to ring my Mummy …. waaaahhhhhhhh!!!! (Runs off crying) Alicia: Hey Lleyton – what have you gotten us into!?!?! Are you sure we’re up to this? We don’t have any experience in this area. Lleyton: Look, normal detectives sometimes find it hard to think creatively and the Australian Open means more to us than it would to any of them …. someone’s got to help and I want to do something, don’t you? Sam: Well, yeah I’ve always wanted to help with lots of things but I guess I just got used to watching things on the news and hoping some of the bad things would just get better, maybe that someone else would help out…. Pat: I’m scared. (Giggles nervously) Matt: Don’t worry. We’ve already known each other for years. We’ll look after each other guys. We’ll be a great team. Let’s call our group, the Fearless Five! Perhaps we should patent that? Stacey: Ah, excuse me, you forgot about me! Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Matt: Oh, sorry, ok. Let me think….how about the Strong Six!?!!? All: Nah! Matt: The Courageous Crew? All: Nah! Matt: I know! How about the Trophy Team?!?! All: Yes! The Trophy Team!! Pat: I’m still a bit scared. (Still giggling nervously) Lleyton: Well, it’s up to you. I want to help. We would love you to help. Who else is in – who else wants to help save the Australian Open? All: Me, me, me!! (The crowd applauds them.) Lleyton: Alright team, let’s go! Alicia: Where on earth are we going to start looking? Sam: Something tells me that we might be looking all over the Asia Pacific region….I mean that is where we are now in Australia and that is all of the countries in the so-­‐
called ‘local neighborhood’…how about we start in…well, if the vicious villain was trying to make a getaway….um….if it was me, I’d probably head to New Zealand… it’s close, it would get me out of the immediate area and there are lots of flights from Melbourne to Auckland…. Stacey: You’re right! All: Let’s go!!! Matt: TAXI!!! (Lights fade) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. NEWSFLASH THREE Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 8 (Rehearsal) Track 46 (Performance) Dennis: Welcome to the latest update on the search for The Australian Open Trophy. I’m Dennis Ball. It has come out in the open, pardon the pun, that the Australia Tennis ambassadors, that’s right, tennis players, have been assigned the task of finding the Australian Open Trophy taken last night from the Opening Ceremony by a person who has been sensationally labeled by the media as the Vicious Villain. We’re going to cross now to Liv For-­‐Sport for the latest….Liv. Liv: Thanks, Dennis. Yes, the group of six champions of Australian Tennis has been assigned the task of finding the Australian Open Trophy. This all unfolded minutes after the torch was stolen, Dennis. Some say this was a rash decision made by tennis officials. I guess only time will tell, Dennis. Dennis: You’re right, Liv. You’re right. Now, what else can you tell us about the investigation? Liv: Well, the six Tennis Australia ambassadors have named themselves, The Trophy Team. Once again, this name and the choice of assigning tennis players to investigate a criminal offence has received different responses from the public – but really, Dennis, I mean you can’t judge a book by its cover, can you? (Dennis hasn’t really been listening as he has been doing his hair in his compact mirror.) Dennis: Oh…er, whatever Liv…is there any other news? Liv: Yes, Mike. The Villain has just released a message through the New Zealand Herald, that is New Zealand’s most popular newspaper, a message for the Trophy Team. Dennis: Well, what does it say? (Said with sense of urgency) Sound Effect: Villain – Track 9 (Rehearsal) Track 47 (Performance) Liv: It reads: “Look for me in Auckland Town, but you must look up and don’t look down: Look at the sky but not just the sky that is blue, the sky that is the tower with a message for you!’ Dennis. Dennis: Wow, Liv, I mean what on earth could this mean? Liv: Well, Dennis, I think it’s pretty clear that the Vicious Villain is talking about the Sky Tower, one of Auckland’s most famous landmarks. Mike: Ok and when are we expecting to hear about more movements in this investigation? Liv: NTV7 will have the news to our viewers as soon as any developments unfold Dennis. We do know that the Trophy Team are focusing their investigation on the Asia Pacific region as it is the local region and the region for which the Australian Open Grand Slam represents. Dennis: What do you mean? Are you saying we live in Asia, Liv? Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Liv: What I’m saying Dennis is that Australia is a part of the Asia Pacific region and the Australian Open is the tennis tournament of the Asia Pacific region… Dennis: Oh, I never knew that. Liv: So you see the team is focusing their attention on the region and are apparently making their way to Auckland as we speak. So, we’ll have to wait and see what unfolds. Dennis: Well I’ve just learned something, Liv. Thank you. Liv: Well, Dennis, perhaps we can all learn something through this experience. For me, I’m now going off to learn about manicure treatments in Auckland. I broke a nail. Dennis: Well, er, thanks so much, Liv. You heard it here folks on NTV7, proudly supported by Dazzle Cars, getting you from a to b in dazzling style. I’m Dennis Ball. Good evening. (Newsflash finishes.) Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 10 (Rehearsal) Track 48 (Performance) Scene Change Music -­‐ Track 11 (Rehearsal) Track 49 (Performance) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. SCENE THREE (The setting is Auckland, New Zealand. It is a normal day with the entire New Zealand cast group on stage. Most are acting as rugby players having a training session in a city park while a few people are going to work, going shopping, reading the newspaper etc. If you are making a set, identify some of the landmark buildings such as churches and the Sky Tower for this scene.) Lleyton: The riddle said he would be at the Sky Tower but he’s not here. Sam: Maybe it’s just near the Sky Tower? Alicia: Wow, it’s beautiful. I can see why it’s a famous landmark. Lleyton: Well, Alicia it’s actually an observation and telecommunications tower. Alicia: Thanks, Lleyton Knewitt. Pat: Is Auckland the capital of New Zealand? Lleyton: No, the capital is actually Wellington however Auckland has a higher population. Matt: Oh, kind of like Canberra and Sydney. Lleyton: That is correct, Matt. Stacey: Hey let’s go and talk to those locals across the road. Matt: But what are you going to ask them? Pat: We should ask them to stop this rain! (Giggles) Lleyton: Ah, yeah but how about we ask if they’ve seen anyone that looks like the Vicious Villain! (Holds up a photo of the Vicious Villain) Sam: Or we could take a look around, you know, look for another riddle? Matt: All of these are good ideas – well, maybe not the rain one – but anyway, let’s go over the road to that rugby oval. We could ask that team that’s training if they’ve seen the Vicious Villain. Stacey: I hope they won’t mind us interrupting their training session. (They walk over to the rugby team.) Alicia: Good morning. Rugby 1: Good morning. Lleyton: How are you going? Rugby 2: Oh, you’re Aussies are you? Pat: How could you tell? Rugby 3: Well the accent and the way you say ‘How are you going’. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Matt: Fair enough. You’re accent is quite similar though. Rugby 4: Actually our countries have so much in common. Lleyton: Yes, that’s correct. Sam: Thanks, Knewitt! Stacey: What kind of things have we got in common? Rugby 5: Well, we fought in World War 1 together and are still remembered as the ANZACS. Rugby 6: We both trade in industries such as dairy and meat. Rugby 7: And both our countries benefit from the tourism offered to each other. Matt: Yes, my parents have travelled here quite a bit and always rave about it. Rugby 8: We have a lot to offer and some say we have a little bit of each part of the world here….so it’s kind of like travelling the globe when you come here. Rugby 9: Yes, you can see mountains, glaciers, forests and more. Rugby 10: Both the north and south islands are glorious and are popular all year round with tourists. Pat: Awesome. Stacey: Have you seen this man? (They all look at the photo, shaking their heads.) Rugby 11: Oh no, sorry. We haven’t seen that man. Rugby 12: (Suddenly realizes who the tennis players are) Hey! Are you guys that tennis team looking for the Australian Open Trophy? Rugby 13: Oh yeah! I thought I recognized you! Rugby 14: Hey everyone. That’s those tennis players looking for the stolen trophy. Rugby 15: Yeah but we haven’t seen that guy so we probably can’t help you sorry. Sam: Well, it’s been great to learn a bit about New Zealand though. Thanks, mate. Rugby 16: Of course there is one thing we haven’t mentioned about New Zealand that you guys probably already know about… Rugby 17: Yeah, they are sporty types. Of course they know! Lleyton: Know what? Rugby 18: About our awesome rugby culture! Rugby 19: It really unites our country, you know how sport does that? Lleyton: Yeah, we totally understand. Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. Rugby 20: Could we do the Haka for you? Matt: What’s that again? Rugby 21: Well most people know it from when we do it before the commencement of our rugby games…. Rugby 22: That tradition actually started way back in 1888-­‐89 when our Native football team performed it and our rugby team has been doing so since 1905. Alicia: Wow. That’s over a hundred years of Haka! Rugby 23: It’s actually a traditional ancestral war cry and is performed like a dance with vigorous movements, stamping of the feet and shouting rhythmically. Rugby 1: Originally it was performed by warriors before battle. It is quite intimidating. Have you seen it? Pat: Only on t.v. Matt: Could you show us now? Alicia: Yeah but don’t scare us! Rugby 2: What do you reckon fellas? Rugby 3: Yes. (Calls out to all the rugby players) Let’s show them how it’s done. Song: Haka He Ha – Track 12 (Rehearsal) Track 50 (Performance) He Ha He Ha He Ha He Ha Greetings, oh friends Arrived here this day Therefore, oh friends, Good luck on your way We have heard about your plight We know you’ve had a long, long flight (Maori / Haka inspired dance) Copyright 2015 © He Ha The Arts Nation Co. He Ha A search for a trophy is what you must do To save the trophy you save the open too We knew you were coming And hope you find the villain It’s time for you to do your best It’s time to do some livin’ He Ha He Ha He Ha (The New Zealanders wait for approximately ten seconds in their finishing pose so that the audience can applaud them. The Trophy Team applaud them at the same time as the audience.) Lleyton: Nice work. Amazing. Thank you. Sam: LOOK! LOOK!! There’s a message hanging off that plane – what does it say? Sound Effect: Villain – Track 13 (Rehearsal) Track 51 (Performance) Stacey: “You can’t catch me but I dare you to try, welcome Trophy Team to the search of your life. Next clue is where the makan is yummy and hot, look next to Istiqlal Mosque if you’re ready or not!” Lleyton: That’s Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia! Pat: How do you know? Lleyton: Er, my name is Lleyton Knewitt…get it? Pat: Oh, ok. (Giggles) Matt: Let’s go to Indonesia first thing tomorrow morning. I’m just so tired now. We need to rest. Stacey: Yes, we’re going to need our strength. Alicia: You’re right. I need a break too. It’s been so hectic. Sam: Let’s find a place to stay. All: Let’s go! (Lights fade.) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co. NEWSFLASH FOUR Sound Effect: Newsflash – Track 14 (Rehearsal) Track 52 (Performance) Dennis: Good evening. I’m Dennis Ball bringing you the latest on the shocking international story of the stolen Australian Open Trophy. We’re going to cross to Liv For-­‐Sport for the latest. Ms For-­‐Sport. Liv: Good evening, Dennis. A baffling clue was hung off the back of a charter jet today circling the famous Auckland landmark, the Sky Tower. It seems that the Trophy Team believes the riddle is indicating that they should go to Indonesia next in their search for the trophy as they try to save the Australian Open Grand Slam. They are planning on flying to Jakarta Airport tomorrow morning and rumour has it that they will be going to the famous Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. They will be looking for the trophy or alternatively another riddle. Although, we are not sure why the Vicious Villain is playing what can only be called games. Dennis. Dennis: Interesting, interesting. Thank you, Liv. Liv: Thank you, Dennis. This is Liv For-­‐Sport reporting to you from Auckland, New Zealand. Dennis: Very interesting. (Lights out.) Scene Change – Track 15 (Rehearsal) Track 53 (Performance) Copyright 2015 © The Arts Nation Co.