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In the heart of the jungle, a grumpy lion rules with fear and growls, but deep inside, he’s missing something very important—happiness. When a cheerful squirrel accidentally falls on him, and a brave little rabbit tries to save her, the lion learns a lesson he never expected. The Lion Who Forgot How to Smile is a heartwarming and funny play that reminds us that kindness brings joy, while anger leads to loneliness. This short play is perfect for classroom performances and storytelling fun!
CHARACTERS
SQUIRREL
RABBIT
LION
SCRIPT
ACT I – IN THE JUNGLE
(A large tree is in the center of the stage. The Lion sleeps underneath it. The Squirrel and the Rabbit tiptoe in, looking for food.)
SQUIRREL: We have to be careful, Rabbit.
RABBIT: I know. This is the first time we’ve wandered so far from home.
SQUIRREL: Let’s find something quickly. This jungle gives me the creeps!
RABBIT: Relax. I always find food here. I don’t come often… you know why.
SQUIRREL: Because of the ferocious lion who eats anything that moves?
RABBIT: Exactly. Like us!
SQUIRREL: That’s why I didn’t want to come with you. (Points up at the tree) Look! That tree is full of delicious nuts!
RABBIT: Climb up fast and toss them down. I’ll catch them all!
SQUIRREL: (Climbs the tree and sings cheerfully) “Life is beautiful, the sky is blue, I love my family, and they love me too!” (Slips and tumbles down—landing right on the Lion!)
LION: (Growls and catches the Squirrel) How dare you wake me from my royal nap?
SQUIRREL: I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to!
RABBIT: Please, Mr. Lion! It was an accident! We’re just two small, hungry animals. Let us go and we promise never to return!
LION: (Snarls) You brought a lawyer too, huh?
RABBIT: I’m begging you!
LION: (Sighs deeply) Fine. I’ll let you live—but only if you answer one question.
SQUIRREL: We’ll do whatever you say!
LION: Why were you singing? You’re tiny, fragile, and powerless. I’m the King of the Jungle! I give orders! Everyone fears me. I can do whatever I want—but I’m still angry and bitter. I have everything… yet I never smile.
RABBIT: You’re not happy?
LION: Not one bit! I’m always grumpy and bored. I never laugh, never play, never feel joy. What’s wrong with me?
SQUIRREL: I can tell you. I’m happy because I live in peace. I love others and don’t try to control them. I don’t hurt anyone—I just gather nuts for my family. But you, Lion, you cause fear and pain. You hate… and I love. That’s the difference.
LION: (Hangs his head) A tiny squirrel just taught the King of the Jungle the most important lesson of all.
RABBIT: So… can we go?
LION: Go—and never come back… or I might hug you. (Smiles weakly)
SQUIRREL and RABBIT: Thank you, Mr. Lion! Goodbye!
(They exit. The LION looks up at the sky and chuckles softly.)
LION: Maybe I’ll try singing tomorrow.
The lion discovered that happiness doesn’t come from power or fear—it comes from love, peace, and treating others with kindness. And sometimes, even the smallest voices can teach the biggest hearts how to smile again.
THE END
Author: Aesop Fable
Adapted by: K I D S I N C O
Moral: True happiness comes from loving others, not controlling them.
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External Resources:
Aesop’s Fables Collection
https://www.aesopsfables.org/
Explore the classic fables that have inspired generations. Great for teachers, students, and storytellers.
Jungle Animal Facts for Kids – National Geographic Kids
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals
Let kids learn more about the jungle and its amazing creatures.
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