Pudding’s Play

Halloo, everybody. I’m Pudding, and I absolutely LOVE acting and theatre. Sadly, I have never been in a play. Out here in Cricket Country, there are no theatres, so I can’t audition for anything! One afternoon, I was flying in circles, when somebuggy called my name. It was Marty, my inchworm friend. “Pudding! Want to see my skateboard trick?”

“Sure,” I responded gloomily, wishing I had a cool talent like Marty. All I could do was light up my bottom.
 
“What happened, Pudding? You’re usually so chipper,” Marty asked.

“I just wish that I could be in a play. It sounds so fun! But I can’t.”

“Well,” said Marty thoughtfully. “Maybe you should start a play.”

“That’s IT, Marty, THAT’S IT!” I yelled and set to work. At first, I thought of a name. Pudding’s Play, of course. Then I recruited my friends. Ladybug, Pussywillow, and Tater would be the set crew. Zoot would play music, and Sluggo would narrate. Old Cricket was happy to make my costume. George, Tail, and Muffin would be the audience. I just hoped Ugly wouldn’t ruin it.

I was practicing my part, when Marty sauntered over. “Pudding!” she cried. “What’s my part?” Marty sounded hurt. Oh, dear! I had forgotten to give her a part. I felt like the official Worst Friend Ever.

“Marty!” I squeaked. “I-I forgot! I’m so sorry! You could watch! Be the audience . . . ?” I suggested. “Please?”

Marty sighed. “I guess so. I just wish . . . well . . . could I act? I could open the show with some skateboard tricks or something.” I gasped. Marty had the PERFECT idea! I flew over and hugged her.

“You are brilliant!” I flashed my light eagerly. “That’s a perfect idea!” Marty shrugged my hug off. I guess she wasn’t the touchy type.

“Thanks, Pudding! Now, I’m off.” As Marty inched away, I felt lucky to be her friend. She always had the best idea at the best time. Friends are brilliant.

The play was a success. I had a great time acting and a great lesson learned, too.