The old belief that at midnight on Christmas Eve the family portraits come to life, step down from their places, and join hands in a stately dance, leads the children to slip out of their beds at an unwonted hour, and so to take a hand in the adventures of their elders, quite beyond their ken.
| IX. [The Babushka.] A Russian Legend, in One Scene | [209] |
Twenty-four characters: One adult, or older girl, able to bring intelligence and sympathy to the part of the mysterious Babushka; two men, or older boys; five boys and four girls, from six to fourteen; and village children, five boys, seven girls. One of the men and one boy, the village fiddlers, should be able to play their violins to accompany the carol.
Setting: Interior,—a Russian hovel.
Time of playing: 30 minutes.
Tells the story of the strange old woman, who, refusing at the Wise Men's call to follow the Star to the manger of the new-born Christ, has ever since in the winter season wandered over the world, seeking in every nursery, in every cradle, for the Holy Child.
| X. [A Canvas Christmas.] In Two Acts. For a Boys' Club | [235] |
Fourteen characters: Twelve boys, twelve to sixteen; two little boys, six and eight.
Setting: One scene, interior of a circus tent.
Time of playing: 40 minutes.
Two little farm boys who have never seen either a circus or a Christmas tree, creep into the tent just as the discontented men are planning rebellion against their leader. The Christmas spirit of friendliness softens not only the men, but the surly ringmaster, and the strict and severe father of the boys.