The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Based on the original story by Washington Irving, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow tells the story of Tarry Town, a place where strange things happen and the townsfolk seem entranced by spirits. Ichabod Crane, a well-educated teacher who comes to live in Tarry Town, meets a mysterious fate. Legend has it that he is the victim of the dreaded ‘headless horseman’ who allegedly haunts Sleepy Hollow.

Before his disappearance, Ichabod had been at a party at the home of Katrina Van Tassel, a young lady with whom Ichabod was much smitten. During the festivities, he was humiliated by Brom Van Brunt, Ichabod’s egotistical rival. He is also frightened by tales of spirits and strange happenings in Tarry Town. He left the party wondering whether he had been the target of a cruel joke by all of the partygoers. After his disappearance, his horse was found grazing in a nearby pasture. His hat was found trampled on the path, and the slimy remains of a pumpkin were found nearby.

Whatever happened to Ichabod? No one knows for sure. Perhaps he left town. Perhaps Brom had something to do with his disappearance. Perhaps he was the victim of a cruel prank. Or perhaps a headless ghost spirited him away, as legend has it.The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a delightful musical play based on the classic story by Washington Irving. Join Ichabod Crane, Brom Bones, the lovely Katrina Van Tassel, the residents of Tarry Town and, oh yes, the Headless Horseman, as they live the story made famous by the legend. This autumnal classic is faithful to the original story written by Washington Irving in 1819 and will thrill and perhaps chill your audiences (though it’s not too scary). No autumn is complete without the fun of telling stories and our retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is one story you won’t want to miss!

Script, lyrics & music © 1996 & 2006 by Paul Deiss; based on the story by Washington Irving.

Grades K – 7 Mystery, Language Arts, Music, Legends, Ghost Stories. (Approx. 50 min.)