Bring American history to life with The Presidents' Day in Court by Kathy Applebee. This clever and humorous script follows Patty O’Phurniture as she takes her disappointing date, Jim, to court for "breach of contract." To her surprise, she is confronted by the legendary figures featured on American currency. As one of our most engaging play scripts for students, this production features George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Susan B. Anthony stepping off their coins to defend the values of hard work and historical achievement. It is an inventive way to combine civics, history, and comedy into a single performance. If you are looking for plays for schools that make learning about the Founding Fathers and civil rights leaders fun, this courtroom caper is the perfect verdict.

Features

• Historical Integration: Features iconic figures like Washington, Jefferson, Adams, and Susan B. Anthony.
• Large, Flexible Cast: Accommodates 15 speaking roles (7 male, 3 female, 5 flexible) plus unlimited extras.
• Civics & Comedy: Blends a modern courtroom setting with historical facts to keep students entertained.
• Perfect for Assemblies: A 20-minute runtime makes it an ideal centerpiece for Presidents' Day or history month events.

Finding high-quality plays for middle school that manage to be both educational and genuinely funny can be a challenge. The Presidents' Day in Court solves this by using a relatable (and hilarious) modern premise to introduce students to the "faces on the coins." It allows your young actors to step into the shoes of historical giants without the dry tone of a standard textbook. This script encourages students to look at history—and their loose change—in a completely new light while building their public speaking and performance skills.

Specs

• Grade Level: Middle Grades
• Cast Size: 15+ (7 Male, 3 Female, 5 Male/Female, plus Extras)
• Run Time: 20 Minutes
• Author: Kathy Applebee
• Category: History / Civics / Comedy