Cast: 4 either gender, 1 musician with option to add more. This adaptation from the famous tale of Hans Christian Anderson is a participatory play of the highest quality for grades K-3. Something is amiss in the court of the great Emperor of China. Obsessed by his worldly possessions, the emperor has grown blind to the needs of his people and the real treasures of life. In this humorous adaptation of the classic fairy tale, ancient Oriental gods, the nightingale and the audience join forces to cure the emperor of his possessive and grasping ways. An important achievement in the often underestimated but difficult genre of participation plays. A genuinely compelling story. Director's notes are available in the script containing drawings of set floor plans, details on costumes, music and movement, and discussion of characterization. Simple sets. Suitable for touring. Simple costumes. Approximate running time: 35 minutes.