Читать книгу The Merry Cobbler - J. A. Jr. Fraser - Страница 9

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Had this piece been written with a special regard for the requirements of amateur players, it could not have been happier in its results. Rendered popular by Mr. John R. Cumpson, who has starred in the part of Franz with great success for several seasons, the play has gained a strong hold upon theatre goers by the simplicity of its story and the strong undercurrent of heart interest mingled with comedy low and high, light and broad. There is not a poor part in the piece. Even the policeman who has only a few lines to speak is sure of two or three good laughs, while Franz, Findham, Bob and Mrs. Rafferty are very "fat" in comedy. Stella is an ingenue part with excellent opportunities, and Gretchen, though short, is certain to make a hit. The children's parts are easy, and from six to ten youngsters may be effectively introduced, with their little Kindergarten songs, in Act II. They will be found effective, indeed, in every act of the play. Holmes is a villain who is not overdrawn and is defiant to the last. None of the parts are difficult, while the stage business, which is fully described, and the climaxes are simple to handle and very effective. The part of Franz, with a good makeup and a fair dialect, will be found to "play itself." If Franz can sing, so much the better and Rosalie has an opportunity to introduce a dance. The scenic effects are of the simplest description.