by Nick Perrin  

9 to 12 yrs  -  KS2  -  unison   (2m 38s)

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Download includes  –  Piano-vocal score, lyrics sheet, mp3 demo & backing tracks
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Theme  –  Guy Fawkes, the gunpowder plot, bonfire, history, fireworks

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Content  –  A darkly comic and highly dramatic song about Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot, following his discovery beneath Parliament, interrogation and failed attempt to destroy the King and government. With graphic imagery and theatrical dialogue, it explores themes of conspiracy, punishment and the consequences of treason. Note: not for younger pupils, as grisly (but authentic) details of 17th century torture are included.   Rather along 'Horrible Histories' lines, children will find this a colourfully gruesome way of engaging with the historical subject matter!  

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Lyrics Sample

Guy Fawkes hiding in the cellar 

In the depths of Parliament.

Pyrotechnic, clever fella. 

Watch him get his fingers burnt!

Search around in every room.  

We shall find him soon.

He won’t dodge the hangman’s rope, 

Hasn’t got a hope!

He’s a traitor, common liar. Teach him not to play with fire!

-  -  -  -  

Turn the screw and stretch a bit.

Let your secrets all come out.

Tell us your name, tell us your game,

Tell us what it’s all about.

Stretch and pull until he cracks!

Break his arms and break his back!

Slice his guts and rip them out!

Listen to him scream and shout!

Stretch and pull until he cracks!

Break his arms and break his back!

Snap his fingers, crush his toes!

Pop his eyeballs, smash his nose!

       Stop! My name is Guy Fawkes!
       I was going to blow up the King and Parliament!

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This song features in 'The Keymaster', a brilliant 'modular' musical for children, in which they are taken on an entertaining journey through time, visiting key periods in British history.