[_Same as Scene III. Two boys and two girls still remain on stage in the
statue-like positions. Three ships are next shown on a sheet, and led by
a trumpeter, Columbus and his Sailors enter._]
TRUMPETER:
Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow,
Columbus is a rover;
Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow,
With his discovery over.
He may not know which way to go,
Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow.
[_Enter Columbus and Sailors; Sailors dance and sing._]
Tune: “Yankee Doodle.”
1.
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
We love the water’s motion;
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
We make a great commotion.
CHORUS.
Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en,
See Columbus coming;
Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en,
Join us in our humming.
2.
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
And up the mast we’re going;
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
And stormy winds are blowing.
3.
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
We’ll land and give a party;
We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en,
We give a greeting hearty.
SAILORS:
In 1492, we made discoveries, it is true,
Some claim there is nothing ever new
At midnight on Hallowe’en.
COLUMBUS:
Whist! be still! what have we here?
Some new discoveries it is clear.
[_Columbus goes to boys and girls._]
COLUMBUS:
Oh! who will break the magic spell,
The Witches are about;
The Owls and Cats now re-appear.
There’s mischief without doubt!
[_The Witches, Owls and Cats creep in._]
OWLS:
Be good—remember words like these,
Go home and do not pout or tease;
And do remember what you’ve seen
Late at night on Hallowe’en.
Or else next year we’ll call for you,
Tu-whit, tu-whoo, tu-whit, tu-whoo!
CATS:
Be good—and try to be polite,
As well as learn to read and write;
For enchanted you have been,
On this night of Hallowe’en.
If you want to improve, we’ll tell you how,
Meow—meow—meow—meow.
WITCHES:
Believe in witches if you choose,
Just go about and spread the news;
We’ll try to get you without doubt,
On Hallowe’en if you are out.
You’ve felt tonight the Witches’ spell,
Little mortals, fare-you-well.
[_The Cats, Owls and Witches go out. Columbus brings out a large flag,
the Sailors circle right and left around the children, recite and close
with one verse of Star Spangled Banner; children come to life and join in
chorus._]
COLUMBUS:
We’ll wave a flag red, white and blue,
The bonnie banner for me and you;
Come, form a ring, we’ll dance and sing,
’Twill break the spell of everything.
[_All wave flags as they sing chorus, and all who have taken part in the
play, re-enter, line up in the back, and join in the chorus._]
Jack Frost’s Surprise
A HALLOWE’EN PLAY IN ONE ACT
CHARACTERS
JACK FROST
WITCH
JACK-BE-NIMBLE
JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT
JACK-IN-THE-BOX
JACK SPRAT
JACK-O’-LANTERN
JACK TAR
JACK HORNER
SIX SAILOR BOYS
COSTUMES
Jack Frost should wear a white costume with a belt cut in points, from
which little bells are hung, also a pointed cap with a bell sewed on the
end of it.
The Jacks may wear appropriate costumes or have their names printed on
their belts or caps. Jack-in-the-Box should wear a large pasteboard box
upon his person and, of course, must pop up from the box occasionally.
Witch should wear black dress and cape and high hat. May carry a
broomstick.
Sailors may wear regular sailor suits, or white suits and sailor hats.
[_Enter Jack Frost from left, Witch from right._]
JACK FROST:
I am Jack Frost, Jolly Jack Frost,
Through the woods today my way I lost;
This self-same thing I oft discover,
In October the summer’s over.
Though elves come tripping o’er the green,
I’m the only Jack upon the scene.
WITCH:
Ha, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en,
Ghosts and elves are often seen;
And many a Jack trips o’er the green,
Ha, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en!
JACK FROST:
Though the wrong road we have taken,
In that surely you’re mistaken;
Even summers charm is lost,
But I’m the only Jack—Jack Frost.
[_Witch taps with her cane, enter Jack-be-Nimble with candlestick._]
JACK-BE-NIMBLE:
I’m Jack-be-Nimble, I have to be quick
When I jump over my candlestick;
I’m most as nimble as a rabbit,
For jumping soon becomes a habit.
[_Jack Frost shakes hands with Jack-be-Nimble, and the Witch taps with
her cane each time, as a new Jack enters._]
JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT:
I am Jack-in-the-Pulpit, very shy,
Scarce glancing at the passerby;
If truths on Hallowe’en you’d teach,
You’d find me very glad to preach.
JACK-IN-THE-BOX:
I’m Jack-in-the-Box, I know no reason,
For feeling sad in any season;
I like to pop up on Hallowe’en,
When many a curious sight is seen.
JACK SPRAT:
I’m Jack Sprat, and tired at that,
There’s only one story you hear;
I’m Jack Sprat, eating lean, not fat,
At any time of the year.
WITCH:
Ha, ha, ha, you’re a jolly fellow,
Come on, now, be a story-teller.
[_Jack Sprat takes his stuffed cat out from under arm._]
JACK SPRAT:
My Hallowe’en cat, behold her here,
I like her well though she has but one ear;
To get a bargain she never will try,
She went after butter when butter was high!
[_Jack-o’-Lantern, boy with lighted lantern, enters by door or window._]
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
I peep in the window, or look in the door,
Jolly Jack-o’-Lantern, you’ve seen me before;
I stand on the lamp post, or grin on the gate,
On Hallowe’en night you dare not be late.
See my big mouth and shining eyes,
I’m bound to give you a surprise.
JACK TAR:
They say, “Who is this fellow? see how he dances,
Lightly retreats, and lightly advances”;
Who else is coming? around him he glances,
Jolly Jack Tar, the hornpipe he dances!
[_Enter many sailor boys, dance or jig, line up and sing._]
Tune: “Marching Through Georgia.”
MERRY SAILOR LADS
1.
Merry sailor lads are we,
Upon the sea we go;
Singing quite new-fangled tunes,
And songs of long ago.
As we journey on our way
We sing, “Ye-ho, ye-ho”
While we are sailing the ocean.
CHORUS.
Away, away, our ship’s a tidy craft,
Away, away, we never stoop to graft;
See our tidy vessel now, we man her fore and aft
While we are sailing the ocean.
2.
Happy-hearted sailor lads,
We really know no fear;
Our home is out upon the sea,
We’ve sailed for years and years.
When we see the bonnie flag,
We always give three cheers
While we are sailing the ocean.
[_While sailors are singing, Witch goes off stage and comes back with
Jack Horner, who sits down at corner of stage._]
SAILORS [_point to Jack Horner in a corner eating pie_]:
Ha, ha, if we linger longer.
We discover old Jack Horner;
Ha, ha; ho, ho; the sailors cry,
We’ll help you eat your Christmas pie.
JACK HORNER:
You’re very welcome to my pie,
I’ve sat for years and years;
According now to history,
Hallowe’en appears.
SAILORS:
Take his pie and rid the corner,
Of this greedy little Jack Horner.
[_The Witch and Jack Frost are in front, the other Jacks behind them; the
rest of the school may line up for the chorus, waving banners, on which
is written the word_ “HALLOWE’EN.” _They all sing._]
Tune: “Yankee Doodle.”
THE SPOOK SONG
1.
Surprises come on Hallowe’en,
You know ’tis very true, sir;
We’ll trip it lightly o’er the green,
That’s what the Spooks all do, sir!
CHORUS.
Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en,
Hear our gentle humming;
Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en,
Soon the Spooks are coming.
2.
The sights and sounds of Hallowe’en,
Are nothing very new, sir;
We’ll never tell you what we’ve seen,
Our song is very true, sir!
[_This may end the program, or the stage may be quickly darkened and the
Hallowe’en Ghosts may be given._]
An Historical Hallowe’en
An interesting play in which customs and superstitions of the various
countries represented are mentioned. Costumes will add much to the
program. Spirit of the Year may wear long, white robe. Owl and Cat may
wear masks. In connection with the play several national anthems might be
sung.
[_Have a panel with curtain arranged at back of stage, so that same can
be drawn open and closed very easily. The characters must be ready to
appear one after the other. The Owl and Cat may draw out their yells so
as to afford more time for the change behind curtain. The Spirit of the
Year announces each character as curtain is drawn open. Enter Spirit of
the Year._]
SPIRIT OF THE YEAR:
Once again ’tis Hallowe’en,
Strange figures show upon the screen;
Hallowe’en in every nation,
Still is kept o’er all creation.
Some superstitions I hold ’tis true,
I am the Spirit of the Year,
I bow to you.
[_Enter Owl from left._]
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
A very wise owl on Hallowe’en
Is often heard, but seldom seen.
[_Enter Cat from right._]
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
I am a cat that belongs to history,
In my heart is many a mystery.
SPIRIT OF THE YEAR:
Who comes here?
A voice I hear.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_The curtain is drawn and the first character is shown. Characters may
pose as tableaux before reciting._]
[_Egyptian, girl dressed in flowing white robe and head-dress, seated at
spinning wheel._]
EGYPT:
Osiris, the sun god was killed today,
His brother Siton will hold full sway;
The god of darkness, you understand,
In winter days shall rule our land.
At the turn of the year your work begin,
Spin—spin—spin.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_Englishman, boy dressed in hunter’s breeches and cap, red coat, carries
short whip._]
ENGLAND:
In England the hounds a-hunting go,
The Spectre Hunter leads you know;
You can hear their hoofs, though they’re only seen,
Late at night on Hallowe’en.
Leave some berries for the “Little People,”
Or the Goblins you’ll see upon a steeple!
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_Welshman, boy wearing long, dark cloak and high-pointed, black hat._]
SOUTH WALES:
The Druid’s altar still is here,
With fires lighted once a year;
Many stones about you see,
A part of witch’s mystery.
If you are caught this night alone,
You may also be turned to stone.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
SOUTH WALES:
In a fire, each threw a stone,
With a mark to call his own;
If in the morning ’twas not found,
In twelve months he’d be under ground.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_Japanese, girls dressed in regular Japanese costumes. Several may
pose in this tableaux. After speaking, they may come forward and give a
Japanese Fan or Parasol Drill. Go off stage._]
JAPAN:
The ghosts come back in fair Japan,
Some with parasol, some with fan;
Keep your lanterns burning bright,
Send out your boat, speed on tonight.
To bring back spirits though they’ll not stay,
To greet us on mid-summer day;
Blow out your rush-lights, one at a time,
Repeating for each a simple rhyme.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_American, girl dressed as Goddess of Liberty. Carries horseshoe._]
AMERICA:
I lean a little to ghosts and witches,
Hobgoblins too, who all use switches!
But this will keep one from all harm,
See, I carry a horse-shoe charm!
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
It may be another name for pluck,
But a horse shoe always brings good luck.
[_Irish, girl dressed in green skirt with bodice, white blouse and apron.
Have an older person speak. Smaller folks come on stage and give a fairy
dance and song._]
IRELAND:
Here I come with fairies many,
If you’re dull you can’t see any:
Gnomes, earth spirits by my side,
Close to earth delight to hide.
The “Little People,” very small.
The “Good People,” who are very tall;
The “Gods” and “Leprechauns” ’tis true,
Go “rat-a-tat-tat,” they make a shoe.
[_All sing._]
Tune: “Lightly Row.”
Dance away, dance away,
Vanish ’ere the break of day;
Dance away, dance away,
Late on Hallowe’en.
Fairy folk all wish you well,
As they cast on you a spell;
Dance away, dance away,
Late on Hallowe’en.
[_Fairies ran off stage._]
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_Druids, boys wearing priest-like robes, pass at the back of stage, and
recite alone or in couples._]
DRUIDS:
As of old, each Druid passes,
Worshipping the sun;
While fairy music ’mid the grasses,
Greets them one by one.
Put out your fires on Hallowe’en,
Relight them now so they are seen;
Carry embers to each home,
Relight your fires, no harm may come.
After the Druids reappear,
No harm will come to you this year.
OWL:
Who—Who—Who—o—o?
CAT:
Meow—Meow—Meow—ow.
[_Scotchman, six boys in kilts, recite following verses and then may
dance the Highland Fling and sing “Blue Bells of Scotland.”_]
SCOTLAND—FIRST BOY:
Hist! be still! what do I see?
A spirit in each walnut tree.
SECOND BOY:
Ha, ha, if you want to hide,
Away from the wild huntsman, ride.
THIRD BOY:
Nuts and apples for a treat,
All the year you find so sweet.
FOURTH BOY:
The bonfires we will light in turn,
While the wicked witches burn.
FIFTH BOY:
Pile cabbage stalks up by your door,
The fairies have brought the stork before.
SIXTH BOY:
At cross-roads don’t linger, lad or lass,
’Tis there the Hallowe’en fairies pass.
[_They give a little drill in imitation of a torch-light procession,
using electric torches or electric candles. Recite as they march._]
FIRST BOY:
Heigho, for the fairies on Hallowe’en,
They scamper away across the green.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
SECOND BOY:
Hist! be still on Hallowe’en,
The torch procession now is seen.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
THIRD BOY:
On Hallowe’en night if you bum a light,
You’ll frighten away each elf and sprite.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
FOURTH BOY:
On Hallowe’en night a light is a charm,
’Twill surely keep you from all harm.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
FIFTH BOY:
Be very careful how you talk,
Better learn to walk the chalk.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
SIXTH BOY:
Over the hills and far away,
Let’s scamper ’till the break of day.
ALL:
They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you,
Oh scamper away whatever you do!
[_Scamper off right and left. All who have taken part return on stage,
America carries large flag. Sing one verse of “Star Spangled Banner” to
close._]
CURTAIN
The Witch’s Dream
CHARACTERS AND COSTUMES
FEAR—Wearing black cloak, carries banner with the word “_Fear_” printed
on it.
WITCH—Regular witch costume, carries megaphone.
OWL—Owl mask and gray cape.
CAT—Cat mask and black cape.
RAIN—Raincoat and cap, may carry umbrella.
MOON—Yellow suit, moon face.
JACK-O’-LANTERN—Carries large Jack-o’-Lantern.
COURAGE—Gay dress, carries banner with the word “_Courage_” printed
on it.
FOUR BOYS—With brooms.
[_The lights are dim on the stage, the Witch sits at right of stage and
raps with her cane. Enter Fear._]
FEAR:
Ha, ha, ha, it’s very queer,
That you don’t recognize me here;
I travel with you every year
Old Witch, I introduce myself,
I, am FEAR!
WITCH:
Hallowe’en is drawing near,
I never felt one-half so queer;
Strange shapes and phantoms now appear,
Hark! what noises do I hear?
[_Enter Wind._]
WIND:
OOO—OOO—OOO, I blow and blow,
I am the boisterous Wind you know,
Ha, ha, I’ll scare you without doubt,
Where is the Witch? come out, come out.
Ha, ha, I never make a mistake,
We’re due to burn you at the stake!
WITCH:
Come Cat, come Owl, protect me do,
If what the old Wind says is true;
I’ll stay inside where I can’t be seen,
On this night of Hallowe’en.
[_Enter Owl._]
OWL:
Tu-whit, tu-whoo, we’ll stay by you,
Faithful mascots tried and true.
[_Enter Cat._]
CAT:
A Witch once on a broomstick sat,
Says the merry old Cat, what think you of that?
With her Cat she went riding up on high,
She said, “I’ll be back again by and by.”
Where went the Cat? I lost track,
But she never came back, never came back!
OWL:
She never came back, never came back!
[_The Witch shrieks. Enter Rain._]
RAIN:
There’s a goblin in the Rain,
Hear him tapping on the pane;
Rapping, tapping, don’t go napping,
While he’s tapping on the pane.
Rapping, tapping, rapping, tapping,
Hear the goblin’s odd refrain;
Rapping, tapping, rapping, tapping,
On the window pane!
OWL:
We’ll not go napping, while he’s tapping,
Rapping, tapping, on the window pane!
[_Witch shrieks. Enter Moon._]
MOON:
The Man in the Moon through the clouds will peep,
Late in the night, when good people sleep;
I can’t tell you all the sights I’ve seen,
Is the Witch within? Is the Witch within?
WITCH:
There must be enchantment in the Moon,
First it rains, then it clears too soon;
Pull in the shutter, and pull down the shade,
On Hallowe’en night I’m surely afraid.
[_Fear skips round waving her wand. Enter boys with brooms._]
BOYS:
Where’s the Witch? We’re not mistaken,
’Tis the hour to waken, waken;
Perhaps already she’s o’ertaken
By sprites on Hallowe’en!
FIRST BOY:
Sweep the cobwebs from the sky,
I’ll bring the Witch back by and by!
SECOND BOY:
Ride her on a creaking broom,
I’ll bring her swiftly to her doom!
THIRD BOY:
In her own kettle let her bubble,
Cook her, it will save much trouble!
FOURTH BOY:
Strike her with a broom three times three!
She’s a wicked Witch we all agree!
ALL:
One, two, sweep the floor [_with motions_],
Clean it neatly as before;
Two, three, shoulder arms [_on shoulders_],
When we hark for war’s alarms.
Three, four, with arms extended [_extend brooms_],
What is broken can be mended;
So we could drill the live-long night,
But vanish along with elf and sprite.
[_They sweep floor, look around fearfully; one at a time leave, the last
shrieks and runs off._]
WITCH:
Shadows creeping, softly peeping,
Who comes stealing while we’re sleeping?
I’m tired now, my watch I’m keeping,
Late on Hallowe’en!
JACK-O’-LANTERN [_peeping in_].
WITCH:
What great big eyes he has!
[_Enter Jack-o’-Lantern._]
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
I shine by candle-light.
OWL:
What a great big nose he has!
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
Make remarks more polite.
CAT:
What a great big mouth he has!
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
Yes, that’s to scare you, quite. [_Runs in._]
[_As Fear goes out, Courage enters._]
COURAGE:
Harken to Courage, blithely she dances,
Now she retreats, now she advances;
Your fears seem so funny,
For Courage is sunny,
Her laughter is worth a whole pile of money!
[_The lights come on full, exit all but Witch, Cat and Owl._]
WITCH:
Oh! Oh! I had a fearful dream!
OWL:
Tu-whit, tu-whoo,
Is that really true?
CAT:
Teach me to dream, I don’t know how,
I’m only a stupid cat—meow!
WITCH:
I’ve made resolutions four and twenty.
OWL:
Half that number would be a-plenty.
WITCH:
I’ll not scare good folks any more.
CAT:
We once heard you say that before.
WITCH:
Ha, ha, I’ll never again act mean.
OWL:
You’d laugh if you saw this on the screen!
CAT:
Oh give me a platter, I’d lick it clean!
ALL:
Hurrah! hurrah! for Hallowe’en.
[_All the characters who took part, and the entire school, if desired,
may now line up at the back and sing._]
Tune: “Twinkle Little Star.”
1.
Late at night on Hallowe’en,
Many funny sights are seen;
Better mind your A, B, C’s,
As the Witches often tease.
2.
If they get their kettles out,
They will boil you without doubt;
Walk the chalk and be polite,
If you do not want a fright.
3.
What’s the use to go to bed,
Witches often times have said;
’Tis a habit, but we call
Good-night, good-night, to one and all.
A Hallowe’en Carnival and Wax-work Show
CHARACTERS
FOLLY—An older boy.
OWL—A small boy.
CAT—A small boy.
WITCH—An older girl.
STILT-WALKERS—Any number boys and girls.
MAD MARCH HARE—A small boy.
JACK-O’-LANTERN—A small boy.
POPPY LADIES—Four girls.
CHINAMAN—A boy.
ESKIMO—A boy.
JAPANESE—A girl.
HOLLAND—A girl.
INDIAN—A boy.
NEGRO—A boy.
Silhouettes of bats, black cats and owls are hung by threads from the
ceiling. The characters are grouped about the stage. They wear fancy
costumes and masks, and pose as statues. Boys on stilts, standing at
right and left, help give a comical appearance; and children dressed in
costumes of all nations, carrying national flags may be in the groups.
Folly wears the most comical costume of all, he is attired as a court
jester, half the costume black, half yellow, wears a cap and bells,
carries a noisy rattle.
SCENE I
[_The first song is sung back of the scenes. Have stage darkened, only
Jack-o’-Lanterns as foot-lights._]
Tune: “The Campbells Are Coming.”
On Hallowe’en Night, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho,
The Witches and Brownies, Ho, Ho. Ho, Ho;
The Owls and the Cats. Ho. Ho. Ho, Ho,
On Hallowe’en Night, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho.
[_Lights come on._]
FOLLY:
I am Folly, always jolly,
Though I’m seldom seen;
I am Folly, always jolly,
Late on Hallowe’en.
And if I am not mistaken,
All these statutes waken, waken!
Ha, ha, ha, hear Folly’s laughter,
Fun and frolic follow after.
[_Folly touches the characters one at a time, with wand or rattle, they
rise stiffly, come to life and recite._]
OWL:
I am the Owl, who—who—who?
On Hallowe’en I follow you.
CAT:
I am the Witch’s Cat, oft’ seen
Late at night on Hallowe’en.
WITCH:
Oh Folly, you’re a cunning fellow,
In your costume black and yellow;
Why not give a wax-work show,
To entertain before we go?
FOLLY:
I’ll wake the funny old stilt-walkers,
Perhaps they’ll serve as the end talkers.
STILT-WALKERS:
We’re rather tall, wherever seen,
But we’ll enjoy this Hallowe’en.
MAD MARCH HARE:
I’m the Mad March Hare, I do declare,
Not popular now, anywhere;
And if you give a wax-work show,
I’m very sure I want to go.
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
Jack-o’-Lantern, jolly rover,
Happy is, in glad October.
WITCH:
Ha, ha. Folly, I’ll cast a spell.
Incantations I know well;
My Poppy Ladies, I will call,
They’ll wrap in slumber one and all.
FOLLY:
My silver whistle, I will blow,
The Poppy Ladies come, ho, ho.
[_Enter Poppy Ladies in crepe paper costumes, go through any pretty
little dance and sing._]
Tune: “Coming Through the Rye.”
Poppy Ladies in October
Sing a lullaby;
And sweet dreams you will discover,
Sandman hovers nigh.
Dreamland fairies in October
Form a magic ring,
Hallowe’en brings many a rover,
Poppy Ladies sing.
[_They go out, the Witch casts a spell indicating certain characters, who
will take part in the wax-work show in the next scene._]
WITCH:
Ho, ho, come broomstick, cast a spell,
On Hallowe’en, when all is well;
All turn to wax, while sleeping, sleeping,
Close your eyes, let’s have no peeping.
You shall whistle, and you shall sing,
You shall recite of fall or spring;
You’ll be a wild rider in the show,
You’ll dance a solo before we go.
The boys and girls from many a nation,
Will appear in their own creation;
And only Folly can break the spell,
Ha, ha, ho, ho, we wish you well.
SCENE II
The characters now are wax-like figures, very still, sitting in a row.
As Folly touches one with a wand he rises and goes through the stunt
suggested by the Witches spell in the last scene. One dances, one sings a
nonsense song, one may give a dumb-bell or Indian-club drill, one skates,
one comes forward on a Kiddy-cart to represent the wild rider. Bring in
all talent possible to make this part of the program funny. A Clown
Dance would be appropriate. The children of various nations recite.
CHINAMAN:
I am Ching-Lo, Chinaman,
Also known as funny man.
ESKIMO:
I am Eskimo, and if you please,
I enter doors on hands and knees.
JAPANESE:
Across the sea to fair Japan,
I carry parasol and fan.
HOLLAND:
Clump, clump, go my wooden shoes,
As I travel to carry news.
INDIAN:
Indian in Indian summer weather,
Carries war-paint, carries feathers.
NEGRO:
Plunkety-plunk goes the old banjo,
Down in the cotton field you know.
[_All taking attitude of playing banjo, say_]:
Plunkety-plunk is a merry tune,
Plunkety-plunk, ’neath the harvest moon;
Plunkety-plunk with songs between,
We’ll entertain on Hallowe’en.
[_Girls enter with mirrors, turn heads to look in mirror held over
shoulder and Folly peeps in each, so he is seen._]
ALL:
Minor, mirror, what do you see?
On Hallowe’en reveal to me.
FIRST:
Mirror, mirror, that I hold,
Many a fortune by you is told.
Folly, Folly, Folly.
SECOND:
Mirror, mirror, what do you mean,
The hour strikes, ’tis Hallowe’en.
Folly, Folly, Folly.
THIRD:
Mirror, mirror, tell me true,
If I meet my love, what shall I do?
Folly, Folly, Folly.
FOURTH:
Mirror, mirror, in my hand,
Your charm I can not understand.
Folly, Folly, Folly.
FOLLY:
Merry lads and lassies too,
Folly makes much fun for you;
Can wax-work figures sing I wonder?
Will they whisper? will they blunder?
Can they keep a tune? I’ll see,
I’ll wind them with my little key.
[_He winds them up one at a time, they rise, to his apparent surprise,
dance around, come forward, line up and sing._]
Tune: “Yankee Doodle.”
WAX-WORK SONG
1.
We’re Wax-Work Figures in the show,
We’re very fond of singing;
We’re talented as you must know,
You’ll hear our voices ringing.
CHORUS.
Ha, ha, ha, we’re wound up well,
You will soon discover;
Why we’re singing, we can’t tell,
In the late October
[_Hum the chorus._]
2.
We’re Wax-Work Figures it is true,
Let’s keep on humming, humming;
We’ll do our very best for you,
As Hallowe’en is coming.
[_Whistle chorus. Repeat words of chorus and go off right and left as
stiff figures would._]
The Play of Pomona
NOTE—The ancients believed that Pomona, the goddess of fruits, attracted
many lovers. She was finally won by Vertumnus, the god of the changing
year. To win her, he had to take on many forms. Offerings were made to
those gods in Rome at festival time.
CHARACTERS
OCTOBER—A tall girl.
WITCH—A tall girl or boy.
TRUMPETER—A small boy.
APPLES—Four girls.
PEARS—Four girls.
BANANAS—Four girls.
GRAPES—Four girls.
CHILD—A small boy.
POMONA—A young lady.
SUITORS—Any number of boys.
VERTUMNUS—A young man.
COSTUME SUGGESTIONS
While no special costumes are necessary, they will add to the program.
The fruits especially should be made to represent what they speak of,
and the Horn of Plenty may be made of pasteboard, decorated with colored
fruits and flowers, or a large waste basket filled with fruits would do
for this purpose. October will be pretty crowned with autumn leaves.
There will be no difficulty in getting a long, black cape for the Witch,
and a pointed black hat. She carries a cane and raps on the floor when
ready to recite. Consult any ancient history for costumes for Pomona and
her suitors.
SCENE I
[_In the woods._]
OCTOBER:
I am October, my fruits are mellow,
My autumn leaves are red and yellow?
I am October, my voice you hear
On Hallowe’en, the fall of the year.
WITCH:
Same old jokes on Hallowe’en,
Same old pumpkins too are seen;
October, with your skies so blue,
Can’t you think up something _new_?
OCTOBER:
By my side old Witch please stay,
And we’ll enact a little play;
Pomona, goddess of fruits, I’ll call,
And she will entertain us all.
Vertumnus, too, I’ll conjure here,
The god he is, of the turning year!
WITCH:
Ha, ha, the story I remember,
He comes long before November;
Though many shapes he takes to woo her,
Nothing ever seems to do her
Until he dons a gossip’s shoes,
For truly, she is fond of news!
OCTOBER:
Her attendants we’ll call without delay,
For Pomona now is on her way.
[_A Trumpeter appears and blows his horn, each time before a fruit or
group of fruits enter._]
APPLES:
Apples rosy, Apples red,
See us nodding overhead;
Apples rosy, round and sweet,
Everywhere are good to eat.
[_Dance around in couples, and line up at back of stage._]
PEARS:
We are Pears, so very shy,
Scarcely nodding to passersby;
As we heard Pomona call,
We’ll do her honor one and all.
[_Dance in a circle, and line up beside Apples._]
BANANAS:
We’re Bananas, spick and spandy,
And you always find us handy;
Ripe Bananas are so sweet,
You will find us quite a treat.
[_Bow to partners, circle round each other, and line up at back._]
GRAPES:
Purple Grapes, in early fall,
We have heard Pomona’s call;
And we come in late October,
For the summer hours are over.
[_Join hands, skip forward and back, line up at back. Child enters with
Horn of Plenty, they circle, around her, singing._]
Tune: “Coming Through the Rye.”
To the woodland we are going
Late on Hallowe’en,
We’ve no other way of knowing
What strange sights are seen;
But we bring the Horn of Plenty
At this time of year,
And a festival we’re keeping,
For Pomona’s here.
[_Pomona enters, and is seated at right; the fruits in turn go to her and
bow, and the child offers her the Horn of Plenty. Many suitors now come
bowing to her in turn; they offer her fall fruits and flowers and gifts,
carrying them in baskets or on trays; the Knave of Hearts even comes
offering her his tarts, and Simple Simon offers her a pie. Last of all
comes Vertumnus, he is larger and more powerful than the rest; he simply
offers her an enormous red pasteboard heart._]
VERTUMNUS:
Vertumnus, the god of the turning year,
I come, Pomona, behold me here;
Offerings are made to me in Rome,
Will you share my fortunes? Pomona, come.
[_Pomona waves him away with the rest of the company, and the curtain
falls._]
SCENE II
[_Witch’s quarters in woods. The Witch and Vertumnus, seated at a table,
are talking over their cups of tea._]
WITCH:
I’m the Witch of Hallowe’en,
Many curious sights I’ve seen.
I’m also a gipsy as you see,
I’ll tell your fortune With leaves of tea.
You must wear disguise, you understand,
If you would win Pomona’s hand.
Go as a Ploughman, talk of spring,
Roses to her cheeks you’ll bring.
As a Fisherman, talk of summer time,
Charm her with your song and rhyme.
A Reaper has enchanting ways
When he sings of autumn days.
As Old Woman Winter in ice and snow,
You’ll interest her, I’m sure it’s so.
When you have enchanted her, then arise,
You can safely throw off your last disguise.
VERTUMNUS:
Such fortunes in tea leaves we’ve seen,
I’ll cry. “Hurrah for Hallowe’en;
Hurrah! hurrah! for your time and trouble,
May your kettle always boil and bubble.”
WITCH:
Vertumnus, now if you are wise,
You’ll not forget to wear disguise.
VERTUMNUS:
In disguise I’ll journey, you understand,
To seek again Pomona’s hand.
SCENE III
[_Pomona’s home in the woods. Pomona seated by spinning wheel. A knock is
heard, enter Vertumnus as ploughman._]
VERTUMNUS: Fair Pomona, I can not help but sing today; I come to tell you
of all the beauties of spring. If you will come with me to the fields you
will see new life returning everywhere. In every little blade of grass
upspringing, in every mellow bird note, there is nature’s call. See, I
have brought you the first violets.
POMONA: Very beautiful is your breath of spring, and the message the
violets bring me, but I would far rather stay here by my spinning wheel,
for even now nights and mornings are chilly. I care not for your wild,
sweet, spring music.
[_Vertumnus goes out. While Pomona spins, he returns as a fisherman._]
VERTUMNUS:
I am a Fisherman, since you ask it,
I made a catch that will fill your basket.
How we all love summer, summer,
She’s a fashionable new-comer.
Now, sweet summer, with her roses,
Happiness for all proposes.
POMONA: I care not for your wonderful catch of fish, or for your summer
roses. I have had bouquets before. Go back to your stream, young
fisherman, perhaps the fish will listen to your clumsy verses.
[_He goes out, returns as reaper, with a scythe or cycle._]
VERTUMNUS: What wonderful seasons we have, Pomona, this is the harvest
time. What a wealth of flowers, fruits and nuts meet our gaze, and the
cheerful bonfires are lighted everywhere. Soon Hallowe’en will be here.
I almost imagined I saw a Witch as I entered. [_The Witch peeps over the
screen, waving hand to audience._] I dream I hear October’s laughter as
she shakes the trees, from which the leaves leap and dance to the last
ball of the season. [_October peeps over screen and laughs._] Will you
come with me, Pomona?
[_Pomona does some real acting while this last recitation is given, she
appears almost to yield, but replies._]
POMONA: As I am the goddess of fruits, you almost persuade me. I hear the
far-off hunter’s horn, I feel the spell of Hallowe’en, but no—I am not
easily won.
[_Vertumnus now goes out and re-enters as old woman winter, he wears a
long cape with hood._]
VERTUMNUS: Have you heard the news? You must surely know. They say, and
they say, and they say. Oh, yes, I look like old winter with my frosty
fingers, but see, I bring Christmas and sleighing and good times and
_gossip_. Ha, ha! Oh, yes, I pay quite a fortune for shoes, for I travel
so far to carry the news.
WITCH [_over the screen_]:
Gossip now is going to win her,
Keep at it whatever you do;
Gossip, like a hardened sinner,
Stands you in good stead ’tis true.
Gossip about whatever you choose,
Drop a word here and there to carry the news;
Never mind who listens over the screen,
I’m the merry old Witch of Hallowe’en.
[_Pomona rises from stool and yields to Vertumnus. Vertumnus drops his
disguise and takes Pomona by the hand. They march forward and bow. The
Witch enters at right, October at left._]
WITCH:
The goddess of fruits to merry October
Calls, “Good-bye, the summer is over.”
OCTOBER:
Vertumnus, the god of the turning year,
Hath won her now, it doth appear.
POMONA:
What our kind friends say is true,
So we call, “Good-bye,” to you.
VERTUMNUS:
Come, let the fall fruits and flowers,
Return for a few more happy hours.
[_All who have taken part re-enter, heralded by trumpeter, line up,
sing._]
Tune: “Battle Hymn.”
1.
Oh autumn time is coming,
You can hear her trumpets call;
While the fruits and nuts are falling,
There is plenty for us all.
We go o’er hill and valley
Making bonfires in the fall,
In happy harvest time.
CHORUS.
Sing three cheers for glad October,
Sing three cheers for summer’s over;
Jack Frost comes, a merry rover,
In happy harvest time.
2.
Oh autumn time we love you
With your fields of ripened wheat;
And so bountiful the harvest
All the glories we repeat.
And at the hour of sunset
You can hear our marching feet,
In happy harvest time.
CHORUS.
CURTAIN OR MARCH OFF
Hallowe’en Puppet Play
[_The Puppets are shown over a screen, and a Showman comes out in front
to recite the prologue._]
CHARACTERS
SHOWMAN
WITCH
CAT
JACK-O’-LANTERN
BROWNIE
KNOWLEDGE
PUNCH AND JUDY
TIME: Hallowe’en.
PLACE: High on the hill.
SHOWMAN:
Little Puppets now are seen,
Late at night on Hallowe’en,
Sometimes thrown upon a screen.
Sometimes from wires suspended high,
You’ll see the Puppets passing by,
Perhaps you’ll hear a wooden sigh.
The Witch and Jack-o’-Lantern, too,
A wooden speech will make for you,
They’ll dance as any Puppets do.
The Cat and Brownie, too, are here,
’Tis Hallowe’en, the hour draws near,
And even Knowledge doth appear.
Now, if you like such plays as these,
Just come inside and take your ease,
For Puppets always try to please.
WITCH:
Ha, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en,
Ghosts and goblins, too, are seen.
CAT:
I’m the Hallowe’en Cat, I stalk about,
I’ll scare some people, without doubt.
WITCH:
What’s the meaning of Hallowe’en,
Oh, Kit-Cat, with the eyes of green?
CAT:
Meow, meow, I do not know,
Hallowe’en Witch, let me go!
[_Exit the Cat._]
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
I’m Jack-o’-Lantern, bright ’tis said,
Though I am only a pumpkin head.
WITCH:
Oh, Jack-o’-Lantern, with eyes so bright,
What does Hallowe’en mean tonight?
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
Oh, oh, oh, please let me go!
Really Witch, I do not know.
[_Exit the Jack-o’-Lantern._]
BROWNIE:
I’m a Brownie, o’er the green,
I dance and sing on Hallowe’en.
WITCH:
You’re the cutest Brownie I have seen,
What is the meaning of Hallowe’en?
BROWNIE:
I turn a somersault and go,
For really, witch, I do not know.
[_Exit Brownie._]
WITCH [_stirs a kettle_]:
Bubble, bubble, always bubble,
Kettle brings us toil and trouble;
None have I met, none have I seen,
Who knows the meaning of Hallowe’en.
[_Exit Witch._]
PUNCH:
I am Punch, odd things I’ve seen,
Ha, ha, ho, ho, ’tis Hallowe’en.
JUDY:
Let’s hide right here, below the screen,
And ask the Witch what she may mean.
[_They hide._]
WITCH:
Bubble, bubble, work and toil,
In the kettle let me boil
The Cat, Jack-o’-Lantern, and Brownie, too,
Unless the answer they bring is true,
I weave my spell where none have seen,
Who knows the meaning of Hallowe’en?
CAT:
I am the Cat of mystery,
Hallowe’en belongs to _history_.
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
The _Druids_ built fires all the year,
In honor of the sun-god, I hear.
BROWNIE:
On the 31st of October each year,
To the altars they gather near;
’Twas then they put the fires out,
And kindled fresh ones, without doubt.
CAT:
Here are the _Druids_, I see them come,
And they are carrying embers home.
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
So goblins now skip o’er the green,
Every year on Hallowe’en.
[_Witch goes out screaming as Knowledge enters._]
KNOWLEDGE:
I am Knowledge. I always frighten ghosts and goblins away, but I like
you, Cat, and Jack-o’-Lantern, and Brownie. You are all jolly, and
fairies, too, have their places to brighten up this old world. Let us
dance on the green this October night.
CAT:
Ha, ha, ha, the summer’s over,
Hallowe’en comes in gay October.
JACK-O’-LANTERN:
Ha, ha, ha, the secret’s out,
What Hallowe’en is all about.
BROWNIE:
Trip it lightly o’er the green,
On this night of Hallowe’en.
KNOWLEDGE:
Hallowe’en comes with pleasant weather,
We’ll have fun and frolic all together.
[_Exit all, while Punch and Judy return._]
PUNCH:
How do little Puppets know
That Hallowe’en is here?
JUDY:
The Witches come, the Witches go,
When Knowledge doth appear.
PUNCH:
Hist! Be still! On Hallowe’en
The Puppets are about!
JUDY:
Jolly Jack-o’-Lantern, too, is seen,
He’ll scare you, without doubt.
PUNCH AND JUDY:
Punch and Judy are so merry
Any time of year,
They’re often seen on Hallowe’en.
Just call, and they’ll appear.
[Directions for making Puppets and their manipulation will be found
in “Puppet Plays for Special Days,” price. 40 cents. Order from the
publishers of this book.]