Dramatic tableaux may often be exhibited with advantage in two or more “scenes;” the curtain being lowered for a moment in order to enable the characters to assume a fresh position. Examples of this will be found among the tableaux which follow.
Having indicated the general arrangements of tableaux vivants, we append, for the reader’s assistance, a selection of effective subjects, both simply pictorial, and dramatic.
i. Dignity and Impudence.
(With background of plain drapery, remaining unchanged.)
A magnificent flunkey, in a gorgeous suit of livery, standing (with left hand on hip, right hand in breast), side by side with a very small and saucy “boy in buttons,” upon whom he looks down superciliously. Boy with both hands in trouser-pockets, and gazing up at his companion with an expression of impertinent familiarity.
ii. The Fortune-Teller.
A pretty girl, in simple outdoor costume, standing sideways to the spectators, with downcast eyes, and a half-smiling, half-frightened expression. The fortune-teller faces her, and holds the young lady’s right hand in her left, while her own right holds a coin with which she is apparently tracing the lines of the young lady’s palm, at the same time gazing with an arch expression into her face, as though to note the effect of her predictions. The fortune-teller should be in gipsy costume, a short, dark skirt, and a hood of some brighter material thrown carelessly over her head. She should be of a swarthy complexion, with a good deal of color, and jet-black hair.
iii. Faith.
A large cross, apparently of white marble (really of deal, well washed with whitening and size) occupies a diagonal position across the centre of the stage, facing slightly towards the left. Its base or plinth is formed of two or three successive platforms or steps of the same material. At the foot a woman kneels, clasping her arms around the cross, as though she had just thrown herself into that position in escaping from some danger. Her gaze should be directed upwards. A loose brown robe and hood, the latter thrown back off the head, will be the most appropriate costume. Magnesium light from above.