This is a side of play production that on no account should be treated
as of little moment, or in the frame of mind that feels ‘it will be all
right on the night,’ for apart from the possible danger to life and limb
from incompetence, there is also that exceedingly irritating business,
the long stage wait, which is such a common feature of amateur
theatricals.
It is of course best, if possible, to enlist the services of regular
scene-shifters to manage the various changes. If there is difficulty in
obtaining professional help, volunteer assistance should be properly
drilled and rehearsed, and provision must be made for the management and
support of each set, or a grievous muddle will be the result.
[Illustration:
PROSCENIUM
]
[Illustration: [Curtain]]
If a hall is hired where stage plays are often presented, the various
appliances and fittings will be found ready for use. Where a
rough-and-ready platform is erected, the amateur must fix up his own.
The illustrations we give show how various parts of scenery are dealt
with in the large theatres, and we leave the aspirant to play production
to adapt them to the necessities of his smaller space.