George, Don't Do That & Stately as...
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And this is my friend Caroline, and Caroline is painting such a lovely red picture, aren't you, Caroline? I wonder what it is? Perhaps it's a lovely sunset, is it? Or a big red or…
Book Summary
Joyce Grenfell's 'George, Don't Do That & Stately as...' collects her beloved monologues and songs, including the iconic nursery-school teacher sketch. First published in the 1970s, this humour classic captures Grenfell's gentle, observant wit as she portrays characters from children to aristocrats. The title piece and its companions offer a nostalgic, laugh-out-loud read for fans of British comedy and vintage performance writing.
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About George, Don't Do That & Stately as...
This volume brings together two of Joyce Grenfell's celebrated collections, 'George, Don't Do That' and 'Stately as a Galleon', showcasing her unique talent for comic monologue and song. Grenfell, a much-loved British entertainer, writes with warmth and precision, creating a gallery of characters: the exasperated nursery teacher, the well-meaning hostess, the earnest guide, and the stately lady of the manor. Her observations are sharp but never cruel, finding humour in everyday situations and social awkwardness. The pieces are designed for performance, with rhythmic dialogue and musicality that reveal her background in revue and radio. Readers can almost hear her distinctive voice in these pages. The collection preserves a style of gentle, character-driven comedy that remains charming and relatable, offering a window into mid-twentieth-century British life and manners. It is a book to dip into and enjoy, whether for a quiet chuckle or a nostalgic reminder of a golden age of entertainment.
Who should read George, Don't Do That & Stately as...?
This book is ideal for fans of classic British comedy, especially those who remember Joyce Grenfell from radio, stage, or television. It will appeal to readers who enjoy gentle, character-based humour and witty monologues. Actors and performers will find useful material for auditions or recitals, while anyone interested in mid-twentieth-century social observation will appreciate Grenfell's affectionate satire. It also makes a thoughtful gift for those who love vintage entertainment and nostalgic writing.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ The nursery school teacher monologue 'George, Don't Do That'
- ✓ Comic songs and monologues from 'Stately as a Galleon'
- ✓ Character sketches of British social types
- ✓ Humorous observations on childhood and education
- ✓ Performance-ready scripts with rhythmic dialogue
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Frequently asked questions
What is 'George, Don't Do That' about?
It is a comic monologue in which a nursery school teacher gently guides her young pupils, capturing the chaos and charm of early childhood education.
Is this book a novel or a collection?
It is a collection of monologues and songs, not a novel. The pieces were written for performance and are best enjoyed read aloud.
Who was Joyce Grenfell?
Joyce Grenfell was a British actress, comedian, and writer, known for her radio and stage revues and her affectionate portrayals of ordinary people.
Are the pieces suitable for children?
Some monologues, like 'George, Don't Do That', are about children and can be enjoyed by families, but the humour is primarily aimed at adults.
Does the book include sheet music?
No, it contains the lyrics and spoken texts, but not musical notation. The songs are meant to be performed with familiar or original tunes.
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