TAILS FROM THE SAVANNAH: THE LEOPARD’S

KEY:
STAGE 1 - LTV
STAGE 2 - Flashback (Main stage)
STAGE 3 – New watering hole
Act I: THE BEGINNING
Scene 1:
Students: Darshan, Jessa, Aamena, AaliaFatema, Samaira, Saniyazahra, Abbas Ali, Tanishka 2
Stage 1; The scene opens to a group of animals who from appearance and tools in hand look
like a group of reporters. The reporters are setting up a live broadcast and Reporter 3 is
touching her earpiece and doing a sound check. The cameraman rolls over to also set up. Two
other reporters are on the side also fumbling with their mic wires.)
Stage 2; Curtains closed
Stage 3; Arrangements going on

DARSHAN: (Looking excited and shifting from foot to foot. Suddenly, he raises up his arms and
bellows...) Nants ingonyama bagithi baba.... Sithi umm ingonyama...
M. JESSA: (Jumping from the scare of his colleague’s sudden ‘performance’. He holds a hand to
his chest before he turns to his colleague who appears to be ready to jump into a second round
of singing.) Dude!
DARSHAN: (Already in the middle of raising his hands, with eyes closed and sings out even more
passionately) Nants ingo-
M. JESSA: DUDE...!!

DARSHAN: Okay, okay, okay.... Sometimes I do get carried away

M. JESSA: (Shaking his head as he continues to fix his mic.) We really need to finish setting up.
We have less than three minutes before we begin the live broadcast.
AAMENA: (She has finished her preparations and is doing breathing techniques) I can't believe
we are covering this major event. Wasn’t it just the other day that we were being taken
through the first lesson of how to sit around the small watering hole and being taught how to
drink from it... (She sighs in nostalgia.)
M. JESSA: 10 years. The watering hole has nourished the animals in the Savannah for 10 years.
This year’s celebration hits different.

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DARSHAN: (Touches his earpiece as if listening then turns to his colleagues.) Guys, one minute
to broadcast.
(The reporters get into place. The producer counts down. Music https://youtu.be/sZCKTT2kaFA
B.N: Welcome to your favourite number 1 TV station in the whole of the Savannah; Leopard TV.
AALIA-FATEMA: Good morning viewers, I will be accompanying you from this side of the
broadcast. (Smiling) I am Aalia Fatema Bhimji.
SAMAIRA: (Smiling)...and I am Samaira Ahmed. Joining us from the second studio is...
SANIYA ZHARA: (Smiling) Saniya Zhara Dhalla.
ABBAS ALI: (Smiling)...and I am Abbas Ali.
SAMAIRA: From the comfort of your home, this morning, you will get to experience the live
coverage of this year’s celebrations that mark 10 years since the Watering Hole was dug.
AALIA-FATEMA: Joining us live from the field are our able reporters: Ameena, Jessa and
Darshan who are braving this early morning chill for this coverage. Ameena, could you tell us if
the Afisa Mkuu Mtendaji has arrived at the venue?
AAMENA: (Touching her earpiece as if to listen. There seems to be a delay in her transmission
as she responds a few seconds later.) Ah, thank you Aalia Fatema. I think the best thing about
being out here this early is that as we wait for the major event to begin, we get to experience
the beautiful sunrise. The Afisa Mkuu Mtendaji has not yet arrived but looking at the time
Aalia Fatema and Samaira, the entire Kamati ya Uongozi should be here in the next 15 minutes.
Back to you in studio. (She touches her earpiece and nods into the camera.)
AALIA-FATEMA: Thank you Ameena. Now, word has it that the Watering Hole is intended to
grow even bigger this year, any concrete information on that? Jessa.
M. JESSA: (Does the same gesture as Reporter 3 before speaking.) Well, the word going round
in the Savannah is that the current size of the Watering Hole is not enough to cater to the
growing needs of the community. This is why this year’s celebration is bigger and more
pompous than ever before. The Wakurugenzi have hinted that the growing needs of the
community as far as a Watering Hole... (He seems to go mute as a voice over is heard. He is still
miming the report.)
B.N : Music https://youtu.be/AcZgVMlbCxc
We interrupt this live broadcast to bring you this piece of Breaking News. It is now confirmed
that the Watering Hole is to be expanded and relocated.

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SAMAIRA: Our dear viewers, the Watering Hole that has been a source of water for the animals
of the Savannah and their young ones for 10 years is not only being expanded but also will be
relocated to an even better space.
AALIA-FATEMA: This news has been welcomed with jubilation (sounds of cheering can be heard
in the background) by the different animals from all over the Savannah. We will now go back to
our reporters who are live on the ground to hear more about this. Jessa.
M. JESSA: (Finishes off his sentence as if he was never on mute.) ...and that is why the Founding
Leopard is a source of inspiration for us all.
AAMENA: Yes, I do agree with you Jessa. As we witness animals coming in droves for this year’s
celebration, I can’t help but feel goosebumps.
DARSHAN: If you are just joining us, we are broadcasting live from the Watering Hole and in
just a few minutes our dear audience, the Mkurugenzi will grace the occasion.
M. JESSA: We will now interview a few animals to hear what they have to say about the event.
Ameena.
(They turn their attention to a passing group of cheetahs who are donning the colours of the
Savannah and have flags of the same.)
AAMENA: Thank you Jesssa. I am here with a group of animals from -
GROUP OF ANIMALS: Serengeti... Serengeti... Serengeti... oyaa... Serengeti...
AMEENA: What is your opinion about today’s event?
ADAM FAZAL: (Steps forward, clears his throat, fixes his coat and takes the microphone from
the reporter.) Can they see me? Am I loud enough?
SWASTIKA: (Whispering a little too loud.) Yes, I am sure they can see and hear you.
ADAM FAZAL: Oh okay. This watering hole has been a source of great nourishment for this
community of animals. I learned how to drink water from this watering hole.
(The other animals clap happily. They are so excited and one of them turns to the camera and
shouts)
TANISHKA Y2: Nants ingonyama bagithi baba...
JESSA: (Turns directly to Darshan and catches him mid attempting to shout in excitement) Don’t
even think about it.
SWASTIKA: (Starts the chant gently) Serengeti... Serengeti... (The others join in as they move
towards the event.)

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AAMENA: (Chuckles as she shakes her head.) I tell you Aalia and Samaira, the excitement here
is infectious.
(The reporters move to interview other animals as the Serengeti animals continue to move
towards the event. In the distance, the chant can be heard and more animals are now crossing
headed in the same direction. The various animals have flags and other celebratory signs. They
are all excited and happy. One passes by carrying a banner written, ‘"It is not about the
destination, but about the journey".

DAYCARE AND NURSERY SONG

Scene 2
Stage 3: A group of younger animals are moving in a line to the event. While the larger group
moves ahead, two younger animals are left behind. One looks rather calm while the other is
very excited as she keeps shifting foot to foot.
Stage 1: No action
Stage 2: No action
MISHKA: (Almost impatiently) Kadhimabbas, if we do not hurry up, we will miss out on the
opening ceremony.
KADHIMABBAS: Relaaaaax. We will get there on time.
MISHKA: Don’t you find it exciting? That we get to take part in this historic celebration. (She is
so excited that she bunches her hands into tiny fists and is smiling broadly. Suddenly, she
changes her facial expression and tone to a much more serious one.)
KADHIMABBAS: That is why we cannot be late for the opening ceremony. (Sits down to tie his
shoelaces.) Say, do you know how this Watering Hole came to be?
MISHKA: (Her eyes widen with curiosity) Tell me, tell me, tell me... How did the Watering Hole
come to be?
KADHIMABBAS: Well, at the beginning, the very beginning, there was this Leopard-
AYDINMAHDI: Lightning. It was lightning.
(The two younger animals who had not noticed the other two animals coming over, first look
confused and then look at them to continue the story.)
AYDINMAHDI: It was a kapow!
ALI JESSA: Yeah, a kapow!

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AYDINMAHDI: A lightning kapow!
ALI JESSA: Yeah... the lightning kapow!
(The two do a choreographed clap and greet then finish with a loud shout of kapow! The two
younger animals look even more confused.)
AYDINMAHDI & ALI JESSA: Let us teach you a little history. They say it was a rainy night... A
cold night... A stormy night. The wind was blowing. The thunder was rumbling and rumbling
and rumbling. They say, on that very night there was a sudden flash of lightning and then
KAPOW!!!
(Mishka screams and runs behind an older animal who was passing by.)
AYDINMAHDI & ALI JESSA: (Open arms as if presenting something grand.) The Watering Hole.
(Mishka peeks from behind Jehaan where she had run off to hide.)
JEHAN: As creative as that story sounds, he (points to Kadhimabbas) is actually right.
MISHKA, ALI JESSA & AYDINMAHDI: He is?
DITI: Yes, he is. This watering hole did not just appear out of the blue. Someone actually dug it.
MISHKA: How? How is that even possible? Did they do it alone? Is it the Leopard that
Kadhimabbas mentioned? Tell me tell me, tell me.
ALL: Yes, tell us.
JEHAN: You see, this watering hole was not always here from the beginning. At the very
beginning, there was a Leopard. (Smiling) It all started with the hard work and determination of
this Leopard. She dug this watering hole for her cub and when other animals came, she shared
it with everyone. That's how a community was formed around this watering hole. (Another
group of animals seems to have joined this small group and overheard their conversation.)
FATEMA-MAWJI: (Amazed) That's so cool! I hope I can do something like that one day.
JEHAN: (Nodding) You can, We all can. Just remember to always think about others and work
together. As this Leopard used to say: "It is not about the destination, but about the journey".
AYDIN: So cool.
DITI: The watering hole was actually quite small when the Leopard first began. How about we
tell you the story of her journey as we go to the event. From the looks of it, the ceremony is just
about to begin.
ZAHRA P: Testing one, two... testing... Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us today.
We kindly request that all animals from Mikumi, move over to my left. Your reserved seats are
in the blue tent.

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(She checks her guest list and hands over the microphone to her colleague.)
ZAYAAN: (Confirms the given list, and signals to the ushers to seat the incoming group of
animals who have the Mikumi banner.) Mikumi, blue tent! Serengeti, yellow tent! Ngorongoro,
green tent! Manyara, red tent!
(The animals begin to walk together. Music: Instrumental - The Lion King - Circle of Life OR Circle
of Life (Instrumental) - The Lion King Musical (Broadway)
JEHAN: In the beginning, At the very beginning...
(Music continues as the older animal's mime as if they are telling a story... they slowly exit.
Placard – time skip (years).)
FLASHBACK BEGINS HERE.
Scene 3
Stage 2: (Music continues through this action. The curtains are slowly opened to reveal a
Savannah landscape with tall grass and scattered trees. A leopard appears and walks to the
stage followed closely by her cub. She looks around, then starts to walk towards the centre
stage before finding a suitable spot. The Savannah tune continues as the Leopard settles down.
Music fades slowly.)
Stage 1: No action.
Stage 3: No action
SALEEHA: This wide savannah is very suitable for our living. There is plenty of food here. (She
turns to her cub and gives him something that he goes on to munch on. The Leopard smiles then
suddenly stops. She looks around as if searching for something then turns to her cub before
repeating these two actions about three times and with each time, she looks more and more
worried.) Oh dear, but where will I take my cub to drink water? (Pacing) Perhaps I should look
around and see where the other animals have taken their young ones …
JEHAN: Therefore, the leopard went around visiting and inspecting the watering holes she had
found on the savannah, trying to find one that would be the best for her cub.
ALI JESSA: Did she find a suitable watering hole?
DITI: Not immediately. She had to look around for a while.
SALEEHA: Mmmmh! No, not this one, and not this one. Maybe that one over there?
( Music Background Cartoon Music Loop | (Download and Royalty FREE) The Leopard goes
around different watering holes as if checking for some specific details. As she goes around
three watering holes. At the first one, she finds the young animals mixed with older animals
with no clear structure of drinking water. At the second watering hole, she finds the teaching

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animal literally feeding the young ones. At the last watering hole, the young ones are in the
watering hole as they drink. The Leopard is becoming exasperated with her search and goes
back to check the first two watering holes. She shakes her head but eventually picks one
watering hole out of the three. She brings over her cub but seemingly appears to not be
convinced about leaving him there.)
AHMED: I do not like any of these watering holes. Why can’t I go back to my old watering hole?
SALEEHA: (Unhappily) I know... I do not really like them either. But we will just have to pick one.
(The cub follows the Leopard to one of the three watering holes. After one final look, she lets
him go. The Leopard Cub is left at the watering hole. Placard – 3 hours later. The Leopard comes
to pick her cub and is shocked when they hand him over all wet.)
Scene 4
Stage 2: The main leopard enters onstage, walking across and back to centre.
(Placard –time skip. 2013)
MISHKA: Did the Leopard like the watering hole she had chosen for her cub?
FATEMA-MAWJI: From the story, I would not have liked any of them either.
KADHIMABBAS: I think it was at this point that the Leopard came up with the brilliant idea to
dig up her own watering hole.
JEHAN: Yes, so as to provide quality water for her cub, the Leopard did choose to dig up one all
by herself.
SALEEHA: (Lost in thought.) The watering holes around are just not suitable for my cub. With
what I want for him, I think... I think I will just have to dig a watering hole myself. I know it will
not be an easy task, but with hard work and determination, I can do this. (She is motivated and
moves to start her digging.) Once I am done, I am sure my cub will have enough water to drink.
Who knows, maybe one day this watering hole will be a source of water for many young
animals in this Savannah.
(The Leopard continues her digging in a mime.)
ROYALTY FREE TV News Music Theme | News Intro Music | Breaking News Music Royalty Free |
MUSIC4VIDEO
SAMAIRA: Looking at the business trends today, Saniyazhara, what do you have for our viewers
tonight?
SANIYA ZHARA: Well Samaira, it is 2013 and we do have some exciting news from our business
desk for those who are keen to follow how social trends affect business. A few market shares
have stabilised and we will be looking at how this impacts the local traders. Ahead in our

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business news tonight, we will also take a look at the just released Financial Stability Report by
the Central Bank of the Savannah. We will be right back after this short commercial break.(The
Leopard has just finished digging the watering hole. She is now teaching her cub how to drink
water. She is joined by another teacher whom she leaves to continue teaching. Some animals
are seen approaching the new watering hole.)
RAGHAV: Great Leopard. What a great job you have done here. This is a very good-looking
watering hole. The water is so clear.
SALEEHA: Why thank you! I dug this watering hole so that my cub would have somewhere to
drink clean water.
KHADEEJAH: Do you mean that your cub had never found any watering hole drink from? Has it
not been drinking water this whole time?
SALEEHA: No, no ,no... I did indeed leave my cub at a watering hole, but with time my cub has
grown a bit, and therefore that watering hole can no longer be suitable. I could not find any
bigger watering hole, so I put myself to task and dug this one.
JIYANSHI: I think what the Leopard means is that as the little ones grow, there will be need for
an even bigger watering hole.
LIZ ALMA: Just wow! The amount of effort you put in really shows. If it were me, I would have
been so tired.
ASIYA: Sure. This does not seem like it was easy at all, was it?
SALEEHA: Well, I must say it was quite a journey. When I first began, I also found it quite
challenging, but the more I stayed on course, the easier it got and the more I enjoyed it.
HUSAYN J: (Looking a little confused) What journey? Haven’t you been here the whole time. I
know I have seen you here for a long time. Or did you leave, then came back or you came back
then left again? (They all look at him in shock.)
JIYANSHI: I think what the Leopard means is that it was not an easy task and she had to dig this
watering hole for a long time.
ZAHRA J: A journey you say? I thought you had to work quickly to finish!
SALEEHA: It is important to remember in life that the journey is always more important than
the destination.
JIYANSHI: I think what the Leopard means is that rushing through your work may not give the
best results. Shortcuts are obviously a ‘no-no’. It is much better to do things the right way
always, and if it takes longer, enjoy it as you do it!
KEZIAH: (Pensively) Hmmm! That is some food for thought. You are very wise…

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RAGHAV: (Nodding) True ... true. I wonder … would it be possible for you to perhaps allow us to
also bring our young ones to drink at this new watering hole, along with your cub?
SALEEHA: Yes, of course! This is another reason why I dug this watering hole. My wish was to
have a watering hole that would cater for other animals’ young ones, just as it would for my
own cub.
JIYANSHI: I think what the Leopard means is that-
ALL: (They all sigh in defeat) We all know what she means!
JIYANSHI: (Chuckling.) Oh... Then what are we all waiting for, let’s go bring our young ones to
this watering hole.
ALL: Yes, let’s! (They go off and soon come back with their young ones.)
(Music: Enduring Hope
(Different animals begin to come from different sides of the stage. The younger animals are
received by the Leopard (height measuring is done) before being handed over to the teachers.
The Leopard first teaches the teachers (Tanishka Mehta and Sri) and then they go on to teach
the younger animals. As more animals bring their young ones the watering hole begins to be
quite popular. Word keeps spreading about the watering hole. The scene moves to a watering
hole. There are young cubs of various ages who are being directed by a teacher. The teacher sits
down as the cubs move to sit around the newly dug watering hole. Action of learning how to
drink water ensues. As the young ones pick the trend of drinking water, some leave as new
children come in. As the Young Animals go downstage, they are replaced with Reception
children around the watering hole.)
RECEPTION SONG
Act II: GROWING PAINS
PLACARD - 2017
ROYALTY FREE TV News Music Theme | News Intro Music | Breaking News Music Royalty Free |
MUSIC4VIDEO
AALIAFATEMA: Abbas Ali, the weather has been quite stable these past few days. What are we
expecting tomorrow?
ABBAS ALI: Yes, Aalia, so far, 2017 has been a very predictable year with the weather. However,
looking at the East of the Savannah, there have been some clouds gathering for the better part
of the day today. As it is, we may experience some heavy rainfall with temperatures of about 25
degrees Celsius as of tomorrow. The rains are expected to continue well into the week and for
the better part of the month. Dear viewers, please do not forget to carry your umbrellas with

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you tomorrow. Have a wonderful evening and enjoy the rest of the programs we have lined up
for you.
Placard: COMMERCIAL BREAK
TANISHKA MEHTA: At this watering hole, we nurture future generations. Now announcing
vacancies for levels 7,8&9.
Sri: Admissions currently in progress. Contact us through: (Placard – contact details)
TANISHKA & SRI: Leopard watering hole, the place to be.
Scene 1:
JEHAN: The animals have settled into the new watering hole that caters for the growing young
ones. Everything is working out, and the animals work together in harmony as the community
continues to grow and prosper.
DITI: As the young animals grow and leave their toddling stage, they must venture out with
their parents to find new watering holes. This saddens both the parents and the leopards.
SKYLAR: I see that our young ones are getting a great amount of nourishment. We are quite
proud of the new watering hole, and proud of the leopard who has brought us so far.
ZAHRA J: What you say is true. Hard work and teamwork can indeed help us achieve anything.
SUHAIL: But you also see that our young ones are growing so fast! What happens when this
watering hole cannot provide for them?
SKYLAR: Leopard has really worked so hard to establish this watering hole. It provides ample
nourishment for our young ones.
SUHAIL: Indeed, what you say is true. I feel we might need to look for other watering holes
though…
SKYLAR: But THIS IS the best watering hole!
JEHAN: The Leopard overheard the animals discussing the growth of the watering hole and the
young animals. She listened and became worried. She decided to seek the help of her sister.

Scene 2
(A group of Leopards come on stage.)
ABDULATIFF: Eenie meenie minnie moh, catch a spider by the-
ZAHRA MAWJI: Spider? What spider?

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GULAMHUSSEIN: This spider! (He tags her and they move to play a game of tag.)
PIHU: Okay, settle down now.
ABDULATIFF: Did you know that the elephant is the only animal that cannot jump? (Turns to
the other younger animals. Do you want to hear more fun facts? (They move and sit together
and continue as if they are sharing funny jokes.)
PIHU: (Looking around) Wow! This savannah is so spacious! How have you been, dear sister?
(The two leopards embrace)
SALEEHA: I am quite fine, and you are right – this savannah is large enough for us to enjoy. But
… As you can see – NOT ENOUGH WATER!
PIHU: Not enough water? Do you mean to say that all, I mean ALL, the other animals have
nowhere to take their young ones to drink water?
AHMED: I like the watering hole now.
ABDULATIFF: Can we come with you to your watering hole tomorrow? I feel thirsty.
GULAMHUSSEIN: Me too.
ZAHRA MAWJI: Me three.
(They all laugh.)
SALEEHA: Not quite, dear sister. They do indeed have other watering holes, which I visited
when I arrived on this savannah. I even left my cub at one of the watering holes for a while.
However, these watering holes did not seem suitable enough for my cub with time.
ALIJAWAD: (Handing over the phone he has been busy working on, to Sister Leopard.) Here, the
software has been updated. You really didn’t need a new device.
PIHU: (Taking the phone but not looking too happy then turns to her sister) Is this the reason
why you decided to dig this one?
SALEEHA: Yes! But as you can see, my cub, as well as the other young ones have become too
big for this watering hole!
PIHU: Aha – So now you admit it! I am the Water-provider! This is why you called me, right?
(Both laugh)
SALEEHA: No, no, no! All around, you see that the animals have been bringing their young ones
to drink. My problem is now what else could I do so that the bigger young animals would not
have to leave this watering hole.

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PIHU: Hmmm! (Thoughtfully) I think I have an idea! What if we were to expand this watering
hole?
ALIJAWAD: Perfect idea Pihu. A bigger watering hole means a bigger space. The current space
here does allow for expansion of up to 6 more levels. If I do my projections, we will need to
include other animals to join us in this task.
SALEEHA: (Excitedly) Amazing! What an excellent idea! We could start right away – At this very
spot!
(The Leopards all move to dig. The younger Leopards have already joined in the water drinking
with other younger animals. Leopard K is handling the plans of expansion.)
SALEEHA: Mmmmmh! (Pausing her digging) The watering hole is just but a destination. It is the
journey that matters.
PIHU: (Appears confused) Huh?
SALEEHA: See – together, we can achieve anything sister. But we must also enjoy and
appreciate the moment. It is NOT about the destination, but about the journey, dear sister.
PIHU: (Excitedly) Oooh! Now I get it! You, my sister, are very wise!
JEHAN: Soon enough, the leopards had finished expanding the watering hole.
DITI: Other animals noticed the larger watering hole and approached the two leopards.
KADHIMABBAS: More and more animals came over.
(A group of different animals come over to where the leopards are still working.)
YANA & ELSA : Oh leopards! Leopards... Leopaaaaaaards...
YANA: A good day to you! How lovely your spotted coats look today!
(They see all the mud on the leopards and they look horrified.)
YANA & ELSA: (Shrieking) So much mud.
ELSA: Too much mud.
SALEEHA: (Displeased) And how may we help you today?
YANA: Such an amazing job you have done here. Too bad, you just had to get your paws all wet
and muddy! So much mud.
ELSA: Too much mud. (She whispers something to Yana and does the action of going to wash
her hands. She runs off.)
PIHU: (Impatiently, stressing her words) How – may – we – help – you – today?

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SUHAIL: What I think Yana is trying to say is -
KHADEEJA: - We wish to join ….
YANA: Join? Oh no! The job is done, and I do not have claws as sharp for digging! Plus all that
mud... But the water – so sparkling!
SALEEHA: What can we do for you?
ALL ANIMALS: We wish to ask whether we can continue to bring our young ones to join your
growing cubs at this expanded watering hole.
PIHU: And Yana was beating about the bush and could not simply say this? Anyway, what do
you think, dear sister?
SALEEHA: Mmmmh … (Thoughtfully) When I started digging this watering hole, I did not intend
it for use only by my cub. I dug it with the help of my dear sister so that our cubs, as well as any
other animals’ young ones, would have a great and amazing place to drink water from.
YANA: Does that mean that …
PIHU: (finishing Yana’s sentence – with a smile) What my sister means is – YES! You are all
welcome to bring your growing young ones to this watering hole where they will drink water in
a safe and secure place, as we all enjoy this great savannah!
JIYANSHI: I think what the Leopards mean is that – Just kidding, I know you all know what they
mean.
(All the animals laugh as they applaud this announcement loudly and cheer!)

Scene 3
JEHAAN: As time went by, the animals enjoyed the new prosperity and life provided by the
watering hole the leopard sisters had dug. However, they were soon faced with the same
problem as before – the young ones were quite grown by now – and needed a new type of
watering hole to continue in their growth.
SALEEHA: Yes! And I have heard the other animals speaking of this same issue, thinking about
leaving to search for other watering holes.
PIHU: What can we do about this?
ALIJAWAD: According to my projections, most of the animals who are currently bringing their
young ones to drink at this watering hole will fully support another expansion plan. This spot
still has a good chance of holding more water. We just need to dig deeper and expand this
watering hole.

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SALEEHA: This answers both my worries! But can we do it ourselves?
PIHU: Not really, but we can work together. Let's call the other animals for help. We can work
together and combine our strengths. With teamwork, we can accomplish great things.
SALEEHA: And like I always say, it is not about the destination...
PIHU & ALIJAWAD: It is about the journey!
ALIJAWAD: It is time we called out to the other animals. I will send the message.
ZAHRA P/SOUND Laptop Keyboard Typing Sound Effect
Dear Animals of the Savannah,
Thank you all for your dedication and commitment. We are proud to inform you that the plans
to expand the watering hole to accommodate more young animals for two more levels have
been confirmed. With a bigger watering hole, we are guaranteed to serve the community
better. Thank you for your continued support since we began all the way till now.
Thank you.
Scene 2:
DITI: The animals worked together, digging deep into the soft soil around the watering hole.
Spirit of Africa
(Different animals come in with digging tools. They all work together in the digging. Soon a
pattern is formed as they all work tirelessly. More animals come in and soon the number is
noticeably big. The smaller animals still drink water as the older ones are now motivated to
continue digging. The Founding Leopard is working harder. Training more teachers as she
directs the digging. The sister helps through it all.)
Scene 3:
JEHAAN: All the animals were happy to this point, with the watering hole catering for many
young ones at different levels of growth.
PIHU: All the hard work is paying off. I really like how much progress we are making.
SALEEHA: That is true. You always keep reminding me how important it is that we all work
together and do our best united.
PIHU: And asking the other animals to help with guiding the young ones has made things
indeed greater. All the different stages of growth are catered for.
SALEEHA: Quite well in fact. Which brings me to something I needed to speak to you about …
PIHU: Oh? What is it – another grand idea? (Excitedly) Or more praises to make my head swell?

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SALEEHA: Seriously now ….
PIHU: OK! What is it? Dear sister, my ears are wide open.
SALEEHA: Seeing all the hard work that you do in conjunction with the other animals, I was
wondering if you would consider taking over my role and being the guide for the watering hole
….
(The sisters continue their conversation in a mime. The Lion King – Circle of Life/Nants'
Ingonyama (Soundtrack Instrumental) [2019 Version]. The choral group gets on stage as the
sisters take a slow walk downstage.)
Placard –Time Skip 2019 As soon as the focus goes to the reporters, the Main Leopard will exit.)
SAMAIRA: Welcome back, as earlier promised, we do have a special feature lined up. Our field
journalists have worked tirelessly to bring you this segment.
AALIA-FATEMA: This is why LTV is the place to be. We will now hand you over to Studio 2.
Saniyazhara.
SANIYAZHARA: Thank you Aalia. Dear viewers, we welcome you to this evening’s special
feature. In this segment, we will focus on one animal of interest.
ABBAS ALI: This week, we want to look at quite an interesting animal. The Leopard. (Turns to
his co-host) Saniyazhara, I am sure our viewers are curious as to what it is about this particular
animal that makes all the animals of the Savannah look up to it. (Saniyazhara nods before they
both turn to the camera.) Darshan, take it away.
DARSHAN: (Nods, touches his earpiece before responding.) Thank you Abbas Ali and
Saniyazhara. As most may know, the Leopard is the fastest land animal. But did you know that
the Leopard can run at up to 58km/h, jump up to 6m high and are excellent swimmers?
JESSA: Leopards are also very skilled climbers. They normally rest on branches and carry heavy
food, up to twice their weight, up the trees to keep it safe from scavengers. In fact, the Leopard
is considered to be the strongest of the big cats!
AMEENA: Leopards are magnificently beautiful. They are light-coloured with dark spots that are
unique to each animal. These spots are called rosettes because... wait for it... they look just like
roses. There are some dark coloured leopards as well. Leopards are also very nurturing in
nature.
M. JESSA: (Nodding as if in agreement.) The most unique feature about Leopards is that they
communicate with each other through distinctive calls.
(The studio reporters continue their reporting in a mime.)
HANDOVER 1 – The Sister Leopard watches as the choral group arrange themselves and she
proceeds to give guidance.

15
Wild Is Life
SIGNIFICANT TEACHERS + CHORAL GROUP: LEOPARD VALUES
MICAH: I hope I remember my lines. Our parents will be watching us.
HASAN J: Easy peasy. I remember all the lines.
ZAYNAB D: Empathy, respect and creativity. Aaradhya, let’s practice our lines together as we
wait for the teachers.
BURHANUDDIN J: Vedika, which part are we working on? (Looks around and notices Vedika is
not there yet.) Oh no, how can she be late?
VEDIKA: (Runs in almost breathless.) Sorry for being late. The Global community, resilience and
responsibility. Those are our lines.
AARADHYA: I am so excited about this presentation. My mum bought a new camera just for
this occasion.
ZAYAAN: Places everyone. Please stand on your marked spot. (Claps his hand before shouting)
Places!
TANISHKA MEHTA: Ready? 1, 2, 3
MICAH: Empathy We try our best to understand other people's feelings and experiences. We
are kind and caring to others and try to make everyone feel welcome and included.

ZAYNAB D: Respect We value different types of people and ideas. We listen to others without
judging them and treat everyone with kindness and fairness.

AARADHYA: Creativity We use our imagination to come up with new ideas, try new things and
find different and innovative ways to solve problems.

VEDIKA: The Global Community We learn about the world around us. We try to understand
different cultures, languages, and ways of life. We aim make the world a better place for
everyone, no matter where they come from.

HASAN J: Resilience We face challenges with a positive attitude and try our best to overcome
them. We keep going, even when things are tough and use those tough times to learn and
grow.

BURHANUDDIN J: Responsibility We take responsibility for our actions, and what happens
because of them. We always strive to do what is right, honest, and fair.

16
M. JESSA: (Continues as though he never stopped) … and that is why Abbas Ali and Saniyazhara,
this particular Leopard does leave an indelible mark in all our hearts. Back to you in studio.

ABBAS ALI: Thank you Jessa, Ameena and Darshan. Thank you, viewers, for accompanying us
this evening.

COMMERCIAL BREAK / SOCIAL MEDIA RUMOURS

Placard – time skip. 2020

RUMOURS ABOUT THE MOSQUITOES

Scene 4
(Animals are seen happily around the watering hole. There is a buzz heard from one side of the
savannah. A group of younger animals is busy playing a game of kicking the ball to each other.
They play for a while before one of them pauses and listens out. A low buzz like a swarm can be
faintly heard.)
HADI: Hey guys, can you hear that?
QAEEM: (Busy running around after the ball.) What?
HADI: (Has completely stopped playing and is now listening keenly.) That sound … like a buzz.
BURAYR: I hear it too... Maybe we ran around so much that our brains are buzzing?
HADI: Should we rest a little?
QAEEM: I think we should. The buzz is getting louder.
(The young animals sit in a meditation pose with eyes closed. The buzzing sound seems to be
getting louder. The younger animals try to cover their ears.)
HADI: Ouch! Who pinched me? (He opens one eye then scratches himself. The buzzing is getting
louder.)
QAEEM: Ouch! (He opens his eyes too and tries to slap off the bite.) Ouch!
BURAYR: Whatever that sound is, I am not sitting here to find out. (He runs off as he tries to
ward off the mosquitoes. The other two run after him. The buzzing gets louder. Several animals
run by as they try to slap off the mosquitoes.)
Placard – Audience - Oh no.
Breaking News Intro After Effects Template

17
B.N: We interrupt this regular viewing to bring you this piece of breaking news.
(News Flash Props pass by stage, the animals pause their action in various places, to pay
attention. Once in a while during the broadcasting, other animals keep slapping off or spraying
themselves with repellents. Even the reporters have cans of insecticides that they keep
spraying.)
SAMAIRA: Good afternoon, dear viewers. News just coming in is that the whole Savannah has
been infested with giant mosquitoes. (She pauses, shows listening keenly to an unseen speaker)
Information coming directly from our reporters on the ground is …
AALIA-FATEMA: That the swarm of mosquitoes descended in their millions this morning on the
plains of the Savannah. We will now go on to the field to hear more from the reporters.
Ameena.
AMEENA: (She has a mosquito repellent that she keeps spraying on herself intermittently) We
have never seen anything like this before. Even as we speak, most animals have shut
themselves up in their homes.
JESSA: (He is trying to brave the mosquitoes, but he eventually must try and slap them away.)
Just as Ameena has said, all animals are holed up in their homes. The few animals who feel
brave enough to be outdoors have protective gear like the ones we are wearing.
SAMAIRA: Thank you. Our dear viewers, joining us in studio is a natural phenomenon analyst.
Dr. Aliraza Karmali who has extensive research experience with such issues. Welcome Doctor.
ALIRAZA: Thank you Samaira and Aalia-Fatema for hosting me.
AALIA-FATEMA: Doctor, how unique is this case and what does it mean for the animals?
ALIRAZA: Although there have been extensive studies about such invasions, this is the first time
we have experienced one of this magnitude. What we are currently facing is known as
GIMOS19 – short for Giant Mosquito Invasion 2019.
SAMAIRA: Doctor, is there any known remedy?
ALIRAZA: As it is the giant mosquitoes are spreading quickly, and their bite is horrible and
devastating. The best way to protect ourselves is for animals to stay away from each other.
AALIA-FATEMA: You have heard it here first. Everyone, stay safe. Thank you Dr. Karmali for
your time.
ALIRAZA: Thank you too.
(Action switches back to the animals)
ZAYNAB FAZAL: What do you make of this?
HALA: Could it be true? I have never heard of such a thing. Large and scary mosquitoes?

18
ZAYNAB FAZAL: Me neither. I’m scared.
HALA: I just received a message from the watering hole about their plans during this invasion.
ZAYNAB FAZAL: Let me check if I got one too.
.(They both take out devices before miming the action of reading a message. As the message
continues, specially dressed people are being directed by Alijawad on how to lay down pipes.
The pipe fixing continues as the ST sit with sister leopard strategizing how to ensure water
reaches all the young animals.)
ZAHRA P/SOUND Laptop Keyboard Typing Sound Effect
The Fellowship of the Ring Soundtrack-09-Many Meetings

Dear Animals of the Savannah

I hope this email finds you in good health. As you may all be aware already, giant mosquitoes
have indeed invaded the savannah. We hope that even as this invasion continues, you will
endeavour to keep yourselves and your families safe.
I would like to express my gratitude to each of you for the amazing work you have done so far
in caring for the young animals at the watering hole.
We also thank you for the supportive community you have built around us that has made it
possible for us to continue running this watering hole and shape so many young ones. But we
are still concerned about GIMOS19.
On behalf of the watering hole, we have taken into consideration the seriousness of the matter
and for now, we will have to put on hold any physical usage of the resource. This is for
everyone’s safety.
However, because of our determination, we will not completely shut down the watering hole.
Instead, we plan to use long pipes that will go to each young animal’s home so that we not only
continue to help them drink but also keep them safe from GIMOS19. This means that they will
continue to get water supplied to them directly from our watering hole. The only difference will
be that this will be done from a safe social distance. Our team is already working tirelessly to
make this happen.
We aim to protect each young one from coming into contact with the giant mosquitoes.
Your continued support will be very much appreciated. Let us continue working together for
our young ones.
Thank you.
The Lion King – Circle of Life/Nants' Ingonyama (Soundtrack Instrumental) [2019 Version]

19
(Placard – time skip... 2020-2022. The pipes keep being restructured Aljawad handles all this
with assistance from Zayaan. The Sister Leopard gets tired on some days but she keeps pushing
on until the last of the mosquitoes have been eradicated.)
HANDOVER 2
The sister leopard hands over the hard helmet to a new leopard... Leopard T. (Virjee) Leopard T
is seen with Leopard K and the ST in discussions and the banner 10 year anniversary is put up as
they leave the stage. Placard – time skip – 2023.
JEHAN: And that, is the story of how this watering hole came to be.
DITI: A long journey of ten years that began with the idea of one Leopard.
ALI JESSA & AYDIN MAHDI: A strong Leopard, a determined Leopard.
FATEMA MAWJI: And a sister Leopard who carried that dream.
KADHIMABBAS: It is a remarkable story.
JEHAAN: And we cannot forget …
ALL: The destination is not important. It is the journey that matters!
Placards – Audience – Clap
Placard - Louder
(The scene goes back to the initial point (The reporters starting their segment. The news tune
plays. The story telling group of animals move with the last remaining animals move towards
the event.)
SAMAIRA: From the comfort of your home, this morning, you will get to experience the live
coverage of this year’s celebrations that mark 10 years since the Watering Hole was dug.
AALIA-FATEMA: Joining us live from the field are our able reporters: Ameena, Jessa and
Darshan who are braving this early morning chill for this coverage. Ameena, could you tell us if
the Afisa Mkuu Mtendaji has arrived at the venue?
AAMENA: (Touching her earpiece as if to listen. There seems to be a delay in her transmission
as she responds a few seconds later.) Ah, thank you Aalia Fatema. I think the best thing about
being out here this early is that as we wait for the major event to begin, we get to experience
the beautiful sunrise. The Afisa Mkuu Mtendaji - (She is interrupted by the loud announcement
and the reporters continue to mime their reporting action.)
ZAHRA P: Testing 1...2... Testing. We kindly request all guests to take their seats. (The Leopard
family walks in and everyone takes their seats. Leopard T and Leopard K are wearing hard

20
helmets. The MC continues her welcoming comments) Good morning Watering Hole
community, thank you for joining us today. (She continues to mime as other animals mime
jubilant celebrations.)
AAMENA:(Continues) … We will now take you to the live scene for the much-awaited
celebrations.
ZAHRA P: (Continues) Let us now give a warm hand of welcome to Mr. Virjee. (Crowd claps
enthusiastically.)
(The kiongozi is seen walking onto stage with many rolled manilas under his arm. A model of
the new watering hole is set up at centre stage.)
M. VIJREE: Dear people of the Savanna, that is, the Stepping Stones Community, allow me a few
minutes of your time. In summary, you have witnessed our dramatic interpretation of the
amazing journey over the last decade, in which this esteemed institution of learning has
progressed from a home-school, to a pre-school, then a primary school. And now in the year
2023/2024, we are challenging ourselves yet again to live up to the great vision of our beloved
founder, Ms. Sajida, when she said ‘Ultimately, the vision for Stepping Stones is to create an
environment where students are provided the knowledge and the right tools to chase their
dreams.‘ As you can see, in front of you is the model of this next phase in this great journey,
where Stepping Stones School will; one, move into a new and greater campus; and two,
introduce the secondary section that will have years 7 through 9. We look forward with great
anticipation to working together in the same cooperation that has brought us this far. And we
also look forward to a greater journey full of marvel and learning, because - (Shows mic to
audience, and leads them in the chant) ‘It is not about the destination, but about the journey!’
Thank you all for granting me this unique chance to address you.
(The celebration scene goes into a mime as Leopard T and Leopard K mime about the plans on
display. Some animals raise their hands to ask questions, there are happy faces, claps and
nodding all in a mime.)
JESSA: There you have it. The confirmation that indeed the Stepping Stones Watering Hole is
being expanded and relocated. 10 years of growth. What a story. Back to you in studio.
AALIA-FATEMA: Thank you Jessa, Darshan and Aamena. It is indeed an inspiring story. We can
all definitely learn something from it.
SAMAIRA: Indeed we can Aalia-Fatema. That is all our dear viewers from our news desk. Thank
you for joining us on this live broadcast. Have a wonderful day and enjoy the rest of the
programs we have lined up for you.
The Lion King – Circle of Life/Nants' Ingonyama (Soundtrack Instrumental) [2019 Version]
Placard – The End

21
Placard – Audience – Standing ovation

THE END.

22