ACT IV
[Woods. A bare tree or branch placed here and there, and hung with cotton for snow. If possible, stage should be unlighted throughout act, and a light thrown on the actors from the hall as they move about. This is easily managed in a house which has electric lights, for a small reflector may be borrowed without difficulty. Gloomy music to suggest winter. Winter enters, dancing. The dance is best left to the child to originate. It should suggest the scattering of snow, the rush of wind which blows the trees about, and the mischievous joy of the Fairy in her work. When she has danced off the stage, the Shining Prince enters. As he represents the sun, his costume should be as bright and sparkling as possible.]
Prince. [Mournfully.] This is the gloomiest spot I ever chanced upon. For weeks, I’ve wandered here, and seen no waking thing. No birds to charm me with their songs, no flowers to cheer with fragrance sweet. The bare trees nod and whisper in their dreams, but I hear no murmuring brooks or waterfalls. Wild beasts meet I none. There’s some enchantment here. [Determinedly.] But lonely though it be [draws sword], dangerous though it prove, I’ll press on, and if I can, I’ll break the spell that holds all life asleep. ’Twould be a joyous deed to rouse this gloomy forest into gladsome life again. [Penetrates through forest to back of stage.]
[Curtain]
