Other editions of book The Ransom of Red Chief

This is a loose stage adaptation of O. Henry's wonderful short story by the same name. Both the new script and the original short story (which is now in the public domain) are included in this book. Considerable liberty was taken to make the story suitable for the stage, as well as to address the rather dated and harsh views in the original story concerning family and community. Changes are outlined in the book's Introduction.This adaptation is part of the Small-Time Press "Adhockery Dramas" series, and was created especially with high-school and college groups in mind. Permissions include the right for non-profit groups and organizations to produce the play without payment of royalties.

A Full-Length Play based on O'Henry's humorous classic about Bill and Sam who make the mistake of kidnapping a brat known as Red. Brought up by a skinflint uncle and mean housekeeper, Red gladly leaves with the two strangers. The kidnappers are delighted but it is their last moment of peace. Red or Red Chief, as he prefers to be called now has two full-time playmates and keeps them hopping. While Bill sets about collecting the ransom, Sam tries to entertain Red Chief. It's tiring work and, finally, Sam's patience exhausted, he makes the mistake of getting Red mad. Red Chief's vengeance soon has Sam calling for help. Never were two hapless criminals so bitterly taken advantage of. Instead of a handsome ransom, they're going to have to pay what little they have for the privilege of returning the so-called victim. (Cast: 5m., 9w)