Exhibitors Herald (Dec 1924-Mar 1925)

9 January 31, 1925 EXHIBITORS HERALD LINCOLN’S BIRTHDAY ... ST. VALENTINE’S DAY .. . WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY Presentation Suggestions for Three February Events By COLBY HARRIMAN February offers three holiday opportunities for the producer of presentations— Lincoln’s birthday, St. Valentine’s day, and Washington’s birthday. One seldom encounters disapproval of an audience when a seasonal subject is artistically produced. Subject matter drop as the backing. If a singer is used in the setting, the platform and back drop are not necessary, or the artist could use the platform in center. If the presentation idea is carried out, it is suggested that the subject matter can be suggested, but in passing, only one suggestion is given each. For Lincoln’s Birthday, a scene depicting a tent, of the Union Army Days, situated on the banks of a moonlight river in Dixie. The little campfire highlight a group of soldiers. The army may be treated in a strictly realistic manner or given an impressionistic or futuristic interpretation. We offer here one suggestion for St. Valentine’s Day. The accompanying sketch has been devised to enable the setting to be used in any theatre, either as a background for a singer, or an investure for a prepared presentation. Its extreme simplicity is one of its charms. Its effectiveness may be attributed to the ease with which it may be understood. The work of mounting it does not entail much expense nor the services of many persons. The major part of the set is composed of fabrics, easy to set and strike. * * It is suggested that plush curtains be used as the “returns” at right and left of the stage. Two large balustrades, made of compo board, tinted in tones to resemble marble and bearing a vinedpattern can mark the performing area. Back of this, hang a drop with a heartshaped opening. The opening can be masked with metalline drapes, which can be toned to give a rich rose or red color. Back of this drop, set a small platform with steps leading to stage, and use a rich, shimmering or spangled tabloid relate to an old love story, or familiar heart songs. Romance of the various periods is another suggestion. Two persons, a boy and girl, could render a schoolday song, to be followed with three other groups — the young man and woman, the mother and father, and close with the old man and woman — the FOUR AGES OF ROMANCE. Two little children as “cupids” could be added, which would add to the popularity of the offering. Or the lovers of “yesterday” compared with the youth of today. Ffere is a basis for clever dancing, old songs and new songs, comedy and much action. The characters garbed in the now comical clothes of the earlier ’80’s, will be in marked contrast to the present extreme creations. The lighting on this number can vary, although it is suggested that the curtains at the opening on the drop should be given the “blood red heart” treatment, and that the drop containing the opening could effectively be done in mottled gilt or given a lace effect. When the lights are flashed on the spangled drop used as the backing, the effect will be glistening. For the two birthday' liolidays, much songs of that day can be effectively used, and into this unsuspecting group can stalk a tall man, made-up as Lincoln, with the high hat, the frock coat-, and customary shawl. A comedy story from Lincoln, a song from the soldiers, distant bugle call and effective finish will mark a successful number. The Lincoln character is extremely picturesque, and it is surprising what publicity can do in selecting the character from among local players. * * * Washington’s Birthday, harks back to the Colonial days, resplendent with quaint costumes and delicate coloring. A very simple but highly effective setting can be made, using a black or red plush curtain or drop in a cyclorama formation. In the center hang a large crystal chandelier. Give this an amber tone, or canary tint effect. The setting will form an ideal and dignified base for the enactment of the stately minuet. The persons in the number should be highlighted from lamps placed at the openings and from a bridge or border, to give them a cameo appearance. The light, colorful costumes against the dark background, will elicit much favorable comment.