Bobbie Keenan FRMS 7331 Summer- 2009 Readers Theater Keeper of the Knight

Teacher for the Day

Cast Narrator Student #1 Teacher Auntie Bernadette Student #2 Isabel Student #3

Setting: Auntie Bernadette has taken Isabel to the local university where she is speaking to a class about her life a s a suruhanan. Narrator: Auntie Bernadette has been asked to speak to a sociology class at the local university about her life as a suruhana. She invites Isabel to go along with her to get out of the house and away from her oppressive Aunt Minerva. Auntie Bernadette: Come with me (she jumps up from her seat and gestures to the door) It will get you away from Minerva for the afternoon. Narrator: Without speaking, Isabel half-heartedly agrees to go. They arrive at the university and are escorted to a packed sociology class. Auntie Bernadette enthusiastically takes her place at the front of the class to answer question while Isabel is seated off to the side just behind her. Student #1: How do you explain your power to heal? Narrator: All eyes are focused on Auntie Bernadette Auntie Bernadette: (without hesitation) My heavenly Father gave the gift to me. I was born feet first. Babies born feet first have the healing touch. Narrator: Several students nod their head as if the statement Auntie Bernadette just made is absolutely factual. Others just say, Oh! as if they just understood something new and true for the very first time. Bernadette then calls on the next student. Student #2: Why do you use spoons to massage? Auntie Bernadette: (confidently) My mother used spoons. Narrator: Another eager student raises her hand to be called on. Auntie Bernadette: (pointing at the student with the raised hand) Yes? Student #3: (some what hesitantly) Is it difficult working with the handicapped? (sinks back down into her seat, slightly embarrassed)

Bobbie Keenan FRMS 7331 Summer- 2009 Readers Theater Keeper of the Knight Auntie Bernadette: (smiles at the student as if to make her more comfortable) I dont know any other way. God took one thing (moves and gestures towards her folded left hand) but gave me another. Student #3: (Nods and looks relieved that her question didnt offend. Now feeling at ease, she asks another bold question) What is the strangest thing someone wanted you to do? Narrator: Theres tremulous laughter throughout the class. Auntie Bernadette: (speaking loudly over the laughter) I cant say that with my young niece here. (Looks at Isabelle) Narrator: All eyes are now focused on Isabel, who is trying to look invisible. Auntie Bernadette: But, (Raising her voice loudly and bringing the audience back under her trance) I told him Im not that kind of woman. (Makes a stern face for emphasis) And thats not the kind of healing I do. Narrator: The entire class and teacher laugh at Auntie Bernadettes innuendo, but not Isabel. Isabel understands what her aunt means and why they are laughing, but chooses not to react. The teacher than asks Auntie Bernadette if she could stay for her next class. Auntie Bernadette: (flattered) Youre lucky. I dont have any appointments this afternoon. (Smiles) Isabel: (Looking at the floor) (*Sigh*) Narrator: Auntie Bernadette and the teacher turn to Isabel, who didnt think she had been so loud. Teacher: (with understanding) Isabel, would you like to walk around campus while your auntie talks to my next class? You could watch the diving team at the pool. (enthusiastically) Theyre champions this year. Isabel: (relieved) Thank you, miss. Narrator: Isabel slips out the door and heads to the campus ground, while Auntie Bernadette awaits the next class.