[Illustration: uncaptioned]
The puppets are made from old socks with burlap, felt, cardboard,
sponge, plastic lacing and buttons used for features, tentacles, and
claws.
The operators sit on chairs on either side of a theatre made from a
cardboard carton, with openings cut in each side. Stage directions for
right and left are for a person ON STAGE, facing the audience. The
direction from which each character enters must be considered in making
the puppets.
(_The ANNOUNCER appears in front of the curtain._)
Announcer: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! For years the
action-filled western has reigned supreme as a favorite with adventure
story lovers. Recently, however, its popularity has been challenged by a
rush of interest in underwater drama. Tonight, we combine these trends
and proudly present a production that will please everyone:
A-Cowboy-Story-Under-The-Sea. Its title is “Phineas Rides Again” or “The
Foam Ranger.”
The following exciting characters will appear:
Phineas Fish—_The Hero_
Clem Clam—_His Sidekick_
Susie Starfish—_The Heroine_
Oily Oliver Octopus—_The Villain_
Louie the Lobster—_His Accomplice_
Sam Sponge—_The Sheriff_
Shall we join the players way down yonder in the wild western ocean?
(_ANNOUNCER leaves, and the curtain opens far enough to reveal the
puppet theatre. PHINEAS has entered from RIGHT and is on stage, alone,
singing. Others backstage may join him to add to the volume._)