Rats! The Story of the Pied Piper

RATS! The town of Hamelin has a problem, and it’s multiplying by the minute! The streets are overrun, the citizens are panicking, and the town council can't seem to agree on anything except one fact: something must be done about the rats. Just when all hope seems lost, a mysterious stranger arrives with an unusual solution and a magical tune that could change everything.

Based on the beloved tale of the Pied Piper, Rats! The Story of the Pied Piper is a fast-paced, laugh-filled musical packed with clever songs, colorful characters, and plenty of opportunities for young performers to shine. Dave and Jean Perry bring fresh energy and humor to this classic story, creating a production that is equal parts comedy, adventure, and cautionary tale.

Audiences will delight in the eccentric townspeople of Hamelin, the bumbling town council, the mischievous rats, and the mysterious Pied Piper whose magical music captures everyone's attention. With witty dialogue, memorable characters, and catchy musical numbers, the story unfolds in a way that keeps performers and audiences engaged from beginning to end.

The show offers outstanding opportunities for ensemble participation, making it ideal for school and community productions. Large groups can be featured as townspeople, children, and energetic rats, while principal performers enjoy fun, character-driven roles. The fully orchestrated accompaniment tracks help create a polished production while remaining accessible for directors and music educators.

Simple staging, flexible casting, and a familiar story make this musical an excellent choice for upper elementary, middle school, and youth theatre programs. Whether performed as a school musical, community production, or festival showcase, Rats! delivers big laughs, memorable music, and an important lesson about honesty, promises, and keeping your word.

Perfect For:

• Elementary and middle school musicals
• Youth theatre programs
• Music classrooms
• Community theatre productions
• Festival and showcase performances

Grades: 4–10+
Running Time: Approximately 30–35 Minutes
Genre: Musical Comedy
Cast Size: Flexible Large Cast

A charming cast of characters, hilarious rats, and toe-tapping songs combine to create a musical adventure that audiences will never forget.

Kit Includes: Director's Book/Score, 10 Student Scripts, Digital Download of Music