CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENTS
BY ALICE M. KELLOGG
CONTAINING
FANCY DRILLS, ACROSTICS, MOTION SONGS, TABLEAUX, SHORT PLAYS,
RECITATIONS IN COSTUME
FOR CHILDREN OF FIVE TO FIFTEEN YEARS
CONTENTS.
* * * * *
NEW SONGS TO OLD TUNES:
Time for Santa Claus M. Nora Boylan
Santa Claus is Coming Maud L. Betts
Old Santa Claus M. Nora Boylan
FANCY DRILLS:
A Christmas-bell Drill Ella M. Powers
The Snow Brigade Marian Loder
Christmas Stockings A.S. Webber
ACROSTICS:
Christmas Children M. Nora Boylan
Santa Claus W.S.C.
Charity Jay Bee
Merry Christmas M.D. Sterling
MOTION SONGS:
A Christmas Lullaby
Dance of the Snowflakes Alice E. Allen
Little Snowflakes Ella M. Powers
Christmas Stories Lettie Sterling
TABLEAUX:
Christmas Pictures
RECITATIONS IN COSTUME:
The Brownie Men M. Nora Boylan
Winter's Children J.D. Moore
Santa Claus Julia C.R. Dorr
Father Christmas' Message J.A. Atkinson
SHORT PLAYS:
Mr. St. Nicholas Alice M. Kellogg
Christmas Offerings by
Children from Other Lands Ella M. Powers
A Christmas Reunion M.D. Sterling
Christmas Waits Katherine West
A Christmas Party Lizzie M. Hadley
RECITATIONS FOR THE PRIMARY GRADE:
Santa's Helpers M. Nora Boylan
Christmas Eve Eugene Field
Santa Claus' Visit Susie M. Best
To Santa Claus Jennie D. Moore
What I Should Like Jennie D. Moore
A Gentle Reminder Alice W. Rollins
Christmas Time M.N.B.
Christmas Wishes C. Phillips
Christmas Morn M.N.B.
My Christmas Secrets S.C. Peabody
Kriss Kringle Susie M. Best
A Message Ella M. Powers
The Mousie M.N.B.
A Letter from Santa Claus William Howard
The Christmas We Like Ella M. Powers
Saint Nick M.N.B.
Merry, Merry Christmas Carine L. Rose
Christmas Questions Wolstan Dixey
A Catastrophe Susie M. Best
RECITATIONS FOR THE GRAMMAR GRADE:
A Christmas Gift Mabel L. Pray
A Christmas Thought Lucy Larcom
The Merry Christmas Eve Charles Kingsley
The Christmas Stocking Charles H. Pearson
Christmas Hymn Eugene Field
Bells Across the Snow F.R. Havergal
Christmas Eve Frank E. Brown
The Little Christmas Tree Susan Coolidge
The Russian Santa Claus Lizzie M. Hadley
A Christmas Garden
A Christmas Carol J.R. Lowell
The Power of Christmas
Peace on Earth S.T. Coleridge
The Christmas Tree
Old English Christmases
Holly and Ivy Eugene Field
Holiday Chimes
Christmas Dolls Elizabeth J. Rook
Red Pepper A. Constance Smedley
A Game of Letters Elizabeth J. Rook
Under the Christmas Tree Arthur Guiterman
NOTE.
A large proportion of the material in this collection was contributed
to _The School Journal_. It is distinguished from other selections by
the author's name following directly after the title.
Christmas Entertainments.
* * * * *
=Time for Santa Claus.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(To be sung to the tune of "Ta-ra-ra, boom-de-ay.")
Now's the time for Santa Claus;
Christmas comes with loud huzzas.
Hark! the bells! Oh, hear them ring!
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.
_Cho_.--Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.
See his prancing reindeer brave,
Hear him tell them to behave--
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen,
Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen.--_Chorus_.
Yes, hurrah for Santa Claus!
Blow the trumpets, shout huzzas!
We'll be happy while we sing--
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.--_Chorus_.
* * * * *
=Santa Claus is Coming.=
By MAUD L. BETTS.
(To be sung to the tune of "Marching thro Georgia.")
Santa Claus is coming--we shall welcome him with glee;
He'll hang a gift for every one upon the Christmas-tree;
He'll not forget a single child. How happy we shall be;
For Santa Claus is coming.
_Chorus_--
Hurrah! hurrah! for Christmas time is near;
Hurrah! hurrah! the time to all so dear;
We all shall hang our stockings up when Christmas eve is here.
For Santa Claus is coming.
But we must remember all that we must do our part;
Christmas is the time of times, to give with all our heart
We must always share our joys with those who have no part,
When Santa Claus is coming.
* * * * *
=Old Santa Claus.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(To be sung to the tune of "Yankee Doodle." The verses may
be given by a single voice, with the chorus by the school, or
selected voices on the platform.)
Old Santa Claus is a jolly man
Who brings us lots of toys, sir;
And none are happier Christmas time
Than little girls and boys, sir.
Have you not seen our Santa Claus,
With hair so snowy white, sir?
Just hang your stocking Christmas eve,--
He'll come that very night, sir.
And if you watch, perhaps you'll see
This friend in furs hid deep, sir.
But I have never seen him once--
I'm always fast asleep, sir.
_Chorus_--Santa Claus is jolly, sir;
Santa Claus is kind, sir;
Santa Claus on Christmas eve
Comes riding on the wind, sir.
* * * * *
=A Christmas-bell Drill.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(This drill may be given by eight little girls provided with
wands. At the top of each wand are tacked three streamers of
red, white, and blue ribbon or cambric. At the end of each
streamer a little tinkling bell is sewed. The children sing,
and wave wands in time to the music. The words may be sung to
the tune of "Lightly Row.")
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Happy bells of Christmas time;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
Christ is born, our Saviour dear,
Joyous words we love to hear;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
(Between first and second verses, all march singing same tune
to "Tra la la."--"Tra la la," wands waving, up, down, right,
left, up, down, right left, throughout. Resume places and sing
second verse.)
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Happy bells of Christmas time;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Glory be to God.
Let us carol sweetly then,
Peace on earth, good will to men;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
(All march out, singing, and waving wands.)
* * * * *
=The Snow Brigade.=
By MARIAN LODER.
(A winter drill for a dozen boys--in overcoats, earcaps,
bright-colored mufflers, mittens, etc. Each carries a big
snow-shovel. The stage should be spread with sheets and loose
cotton to represent snow. Boys come marching in single file,
shovels over shoulder, singing to the tune, "_See the Farmer
in the Field_.")
I.
We are the jolly Snow Brigade,
With our trusty shovels we make a raid.
And lustily we'll give you aid
On a frosty winter's morning.
_Chorus_.--He! he! ha! ha! ha!
He! he! ha! ha! ha!
He! he! ha! ha! ha!
Ho! ho! ho!
II.
(_Beginning to shovel cotton_.)
We'll shovel your walk for fifteen cents,
We'll pile the snow against the fence,
We'll show you we are boys of sense
On a frosty winter's morning.--_Cho_.
III.
(_Rubbing noses_.)
Jiminy crack! our noses are cold!
Oh! Jack Frost is bad and bold!
(_Working harder than ever_.)
But little care we for the winter cold,
On a clear and frosty morning.--_Cho_.
IV.
_(Pointing to work_.)
Look at that; now what do you say?
(_Holding out hands to audience_)
Now, if you please, we'll take our pay.
Our work is done, it's time for play,
On a frosty winter's morning.--_Cho_.
(_Begin snowballing with the cotton, throwing balls into
audience and at each other_.)
* * * * *
=Christmas Stockings.=
By A.S. WEBBER.
(Six small girls and boys are needed for speaking, and any
even number of larger girls for singing. A boy leads each
division of the march, immediately followed by those who
speak.
An equal number enter from opposite sides as far back as
possible, pass in front to sides, back half-way, form
two lines across front, having the six who speak in front
(alternating boy and girl), and the larger pupils back of them
sing as they enter and until they are placed the chorus of
"Birdies' Ball," beginning "Tra la la la la." When in position
all sing the following two verses, air, "Birdies' Ball." When
chorus is reached, let them keep time by resting weight on
right foot on first count, and at same time swinging left foot
over right, touch toe to floor, dipping body slightly on third
count, foot back in place on first count of next measure. Rest
weight on left foot and swing right foot over left, touching
right toe on third count, foot back in place on first count of
next measure, etc.)
Santa Claus on Christmas eve,
Means to give a gift to all,
Each a stocking we will hang,
Stockings big and stockings small.
_Chorus_.--Tra la la la, etc.
Santa Claus on Christmas eve
Comes with reindeer swift as air,
Early all must be in bed,
Leaving only stockings there.
_Chorus_.--Tra la la la, etc.
(A girl comes one step forward, bows, and speaks.)
I mean to hang on Christmas eve
A stocking of this size _(measures),_
Because I want a doll so big,
That sleeps and shuts its eyes.
To crowd it in a stocking small
Would surely not be wise.
(Pupil steps back in place and all sing the chorus, keeping
time as before.)
_2d Pupil_.--My stocking is the one I'll hang,
I know 'twill hold quite well,
About a hundred marbles more
Than's owned by Tommy Bell.
Of course I want some candy, too,
But the marbles are what tell.
(Steps back, and chorus is repeated as before.)
_3d Pupil_.--I mean to beg a stocking small
Of little sister Clare,
Because I want some things so small
They'll scarce be found e'en there.
I want a ring that has a stone,
And a pretty pin to wear.
(Chorus repeated as before.)
_4th Pupil_.--I've measured all the stockings round,
And think I'll hang up two,
Because I want a pair of skates,--
One stocking will not do.
Of course I want some sweets and things
To last the whole week through.
_Chorus, etc_.
_5th Pupil_.--My mamma's stocking I will hang,
'Twill so much better hold
A tea-set for my dolly dear,
All painted round with gold;
And dishes can't be squeezed, you know,
That's what I've oft been told.
_Chorus, etc_.
_6th Pupil_.--And I don't know just what to do,
Because I want, you see,
A hobby-horse that is so high,--
Now tell me, can it be,
Are stockings ever made so big
That one can hold all of me?
_Chorus, etc_.
_All sing_.--All we children love to hang
Stockings o'er the fireplace,
Wondering how our gifts can come
Nice and clean from such a place.
_Chorus_.--Tra la la la, etc.
Santa Claus is loved by all
Folks who are as big as we,
And for long before he comes
We can only sing for glee.
_Chorus_.--Tra la la la, etc
(When the chorus is partly sung, the leaders of the march lead
to opposite sides, others fall in line forward, pass in front
to rear along sides, pass at rear end to seats. Continue to
repeat the chorus till all are seated.)
* * * * *
=Christmas Children.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(An acrostic for the primary grade. Each child wears a large
gilt star around his neck. As he begins to speak, he turns it
over, showing his letter on the reverse side.)
_All_: Happy children here we stand.
Bringing words of love;
For on this glad Christmas day
Christ came from above.
_First child_: C is for the Christ Who came
To this lowly earth.
_Second child_: H is for the harps that rang
At our Saviour's birth.
_Third child_: R is for the ringing bells,
Telling Christmas-tide.
_Fourth child_: I is for the crystal ice
Where we go to slide.
_Fifth child_: S is for the schoolboy's sled
When he coasting goes.
_Sixth child_: T is for poor Tommy Jones--
Jack Frost bit his nose.
_Seventh child_: M is for the merry part
Of this Christmas day,
_Eighth child_: A is for the apple pies
Grandma put away.
_Ninth child_: S is for old Santa Claus,
Coming here to-night.
Hope he'll wait till nearly morn,
So it will be light.
_All_: Yes, we're happy children nine,
And to each we're true,
Three cheers for jolly Santa Claus,
A happy day to you.
* * * * *
=Santa Claus.=
By W.S.C.
(A letter exercise for ten very small children. Let each child
present placard bearing the letter as he recites his line. At
the close, all shut their eyes and screw them up very tight.)
S stands for stockings we hang up so high.
A is for all we get if we don't cry.
N is for nobody he will pass by.
T is for to-morrow, the day we eat pie.
A stands for at last old Santa is nigh.
C for the children who love him so well.
L for the little girl, his name she can spell.
A stands for apples so rosy and red.
U is for us as we wait for his sled.
S stands for Santa Claus, who comes in the night
when we are tucked up in bed with our eyes
closed so tight
* * * * *
=Charity.=
By JAY BEE.
(Seven little girls daintily dressed carry a bell in the right
hand, with the initial on it which begins her line. The bells
are rung lightly during the speaking)
_First child_: Cheerily ring the Christmas bells!
_Second child_: How joyfully their jingling tells
_Third child_: All peace and kindness on the earth,
_Fourth child_: Ringing out, singing out, laughing with mirth!
_Fifth child_: In every home is joy profound,
_Sixth child_: The echo of this merry sound.
_Seventh child_: Yet Charity must remembered be,
And that is why we have this tree.
* * * * *
=Merry Christmas.=
By M.D. STERLING.
(Seven boys and seven girls with good voices and some
sprightliness of manner are required. Each carries a wand,
to the upper end of which is fastened an evergreen wreath
surrounding a large, gilt letter. Ranged in order the letters
will spell the word "Merry Christmas." The verse for each is
sung to the air, "Buy a Broom." The children enter only one at
a time, using a polka step, boys and girls alternately. While
singing they take steps and wave wand in time to music. At
third line of each stanza the boys bow and the girls make a
courtesy, right and left. The chorus at the end of each verse
is sung by the entire school. The boy with letter M comes in
first, sings, and takes position on platform. He is followed
by the girl with E. So continue until the line of children is
complete.)
_First boy_:
M stands for merry--oh' let us be merry;
M stands for merry--right merry am I.
_(Bowing.)_ With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
Come, now, and be merry, all sadness defy.
_Chorus (by school, to the refrain of "Buy a Broom_").--
Christmas dear now draws near,
With song and with evergreen welcome it here.
_First girl_:
E stands for evergreen, beautiful evergreen,
E stands for evergreen, never to fade.
(_Courtesying.)_ With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Bring evergreen garlands for Christmas time made.--_Cho_.
_Second boy_:
R stands for rollicking--come, then, be rollicking;
R stands for rollicking--fun's in the air!
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
In Christmas-day rollicking take now a share.--_Cho_.
_Second girl_:
R stands for rally, a grand Christmas rally,
R stands for rally, where Christmas trees grow!
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
We rally where Santa is likely to go.--_Cho_.
_Third boy_:
Y stands for youthful--rejoice, now, all youthful;
Y stands for youthful--quite youthful am I.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
The youthful make merry when Christmas is nigh.--_Cho_.
(Leave a space in the line of children between the last letter
of "Merry" and the first of "Christmas.")
_Third girl_:
C stands for Christmas--bright Christmas, merry Christmas;
C stands for Christmas--the best of the year.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Make merry at Christmas with good Christmas cheer.--_Cho_.
_Fourth boy_:
H stands for happy--at Christmas be happy!
H stands for happy--right happy am I.
With a bow to the right sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
If you would be happy some Christmas gifts buy--_Cho_.
_Fourth girl_:
R stands for ready--for Christmas be ready;
R stands for ready--are _you_ ready yet?
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir.
To make ready for Christmas, oh! never forget.--_Cho_.
_Fifth boy_:
I stands for icy--for winter so icy;
I stands for icy, when Kris drives along.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
Though icy the weather we'll give him a song.--_Cho_.
_Fifth girl_:
S stands for Santa--the children's own Santa;
S stands for Santa, the jolly old dear.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
For Santy to fill we hang stockings each year.--_Cho_.
_Sixth boy_:
T stands for thoughtful--of all friends be thoughtful;
T stands for thoughtful--your presents prepare.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
And be thoughtful those poorer than you have a share.--_Cho_.
_Sixth girl_:
M stands for magic--for Christmas-night magic;
M stands for magic filling stockings and tree.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Who does this fine magic, can any agree?--_Cho_.
_Seventh boy_:
A stands for all of us, old and young, all of us;
A stands for all of us looking for Kris.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir.
And all of us hope that not one will he miss.--_Cho_.
_Seventh girl_:
S stands for smiling--on Christmas morn smiling;
S stands for smiling--all smiling I'll be.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
All smiling, yes, smiling, when presents I see.--_Cho_.
(The following verses are to be sung by the school to the air,
"Wait for the Wagon." During the singing of the first stanza
and chorus, the fourteen boys and girls divide off into
couples and march around, elevating and lowering the wands in
time to music. During the second stanza they form two opposite
lines, with wands crossed overhead, couples marching under
the arches formed and back again to places. Third stanza, the
opposite lines pass forward and back, cross to other side,
partners passing each other, then back once more, and turn
partners into place in a line forming "Merry Christmas"
again.)
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
Thy call we must obey,
And carry fadeless garlands
In honor of the day.
_Chorus_ (_to be sung after each verse_).--
All hail, merry Christmas!
Hail, merry Christmas!
All hail, merry Christmas,
The evergreen day.
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
With laughter, song, and play,
How gayly pass the hours
Of that dear, happy day.--_Chorus_.
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
Quite old, but never gray,
Like thy own joys, unfading,
The wreath we bring to-day.--_Chorus_.
* * * * *
=A Christmas Lullaby.=
(The children are seated in little rocking-chairs, each
holding a doll dressed in a long white gown. They rock
slowly in time to the music. At first 1. "hushaby" they raise
forefinger of right hand, as if to insure silence.
2. Kiss dolls.
3. Very softly.
4. Lay dolls in small cradles, standing near.
5. At "hush" raise forefinger of right hand warningly.
6. Very softly.
7. Rock cradles slowly in time to music, children kneeling on
floor.
8. Turn toward audience.
9. Very softly.
The words are adapted to the music of the familiar hymn.
"Silent Night.")
Hushaby, hushaby, (1)
Christmas stars are in the sky;
Sweet the bells of Christmas eve,--
Babies, each a kiss receive,--(2)
Hushaby, good-night,
Hushaby, good-night! (3)
Lullaby, lullaby,
Babies in their cradles lie; (4)
Every one in white is gowned,
Hush, make not a single sound! (5)
Lullaby, good-night,
Lullaby, good-night! (6)
Rockaby, rockaby,
Christmas-tide draweth nigh; (7)
Quiet now the tiny feet,
Babies sleep so still and sweet,--
Sweetest dreams, good-night, (8)
Sweetest dreams, good-night! (9)
* * * * *
=Dance of the Snowflakes.=
By ALICE E. ALLEN.
(The words of this motion song are adapted to the chorus of
"Dream Faces." The children should be dressed in white gowns,
white stockings and slippers, and wear caps made of white
tissue paper, trimmed with silver stars.
1. Raise both hands, look up.
2. Move hand slowly back and forth, with floating motion.
3. Lower hands, and motion as if swaying cradle.
4. Drop head slowly to one side, close eyes as if sleeping.
5. While pianist plays last half of song slowly, children take
hold of corners of skirts, and with waltz step dance from side
to side, still with sleepy look and motion.
6. Stand erect, with eyes wide open.
7. Use forefinger of right hand as if enforcing command.
8. Raise both hands above head, and lower them slowly, with
fluttering motion.
9. Drop heads, sing very slowly.
10. Shake heads sadly.
11. Look down as if searching for flowers.
12. While pianist plays as in 5 children repeat 5 very slowly,
still looking down.
13. Music much faster and brighter. Children look up over
right shoulder, as if afraid of being caught.
14. Whir round and round.
15. Bend to right, and then to left.
16. Fall lightly to floor.
17. Spring up with hands upraised.
18. Drop hands, smile.
19 All clasp hands, raise them high above heads, and dance
lightly backward and forward.
20. Hold position 19; dance as in 5, only more rapidly.
21. Dejected position, head bent down. Music very slow and
sad.
22. Raise and lower right hand slowly.
23. Repeat with left.
24. Music strong and faster. Children raise on tip-toe of
right foot, reach forward with motion as looking in window
above them on their right.
25. Motion with forefinger of right hand as if counting
stockings.
26. With skirts distended dance as in 20, smiling.
27. Right hand raised to ear, as if listening.
28. Shade eyes with right hand and look expectant.
29. Step forward, both hands extended as if in greeting,
smiling.
30. Throw kiss to audience.
31. Pianist repeats all of song; children dance as in 26,
singing verse beginning "Bright stars are gleaming," and at
last "Merry Christmas" throw kiss to audience.)
We lived in cloudland, (1)
Floating here and there (2)
Over the mountains
And the valleys fair.
Winds swayed our cradles, (3)
Then we fell asleep, (4)
While far above us
Stars their watch did keep. (5)
"Wake," cried the North Wind, (6)
"You to earth must go." (7)
Down we fell fluttering (8)
Butterflies of snow.
Silently and slowly (9)
Through the winter hours,
Falling so sadly, (10)
Hiding grass and flowers, (11-12)
Then the wind caught us, (13)
Whirled us round and round, (14)
Dashed us and drove us, (15)
Piled us on the ground (16)
Flying up in frolic, (17)
Always glad and gay, (18)
Dancing and drifting (19)
All the stormy day. (20)
Now our play is over, (21)
Now the day is done,
Falling so sadly, (22)
Sadly one by one. (23)
Peeping in the windows (24)
Where the fires glow,
See the children's stockings (25)
Hanging in a row. (26)
Hark, in the distance (27)
Hear the merry bells!
Santa Claus is coming, (28)
Sweet their music tells!
Go we now to greet him, (29)
Listen as we call,--
Glad merry Christmas,
Merry Christmas all! (30)
Bright stars are gleaming, (31)
Christmas cometh soon.
Joy bells are ringing,
All in merry tune.
We are Christmas snowflakes,
Singing as we fall,--
Glad, merry Christmas,
Merry Christmas all!
* * * * *
=Little Snowflakes.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(Six primary children may sing these words to the tune, "Tiny
Little Snowflakes" in "Golden Robin," with the following
finger-play.
_a_. Hands waving up and down, fingers moving rapidly.
_b_. Imitate the waving with hands and heads to right and
left.
_c_. Quickly shake head and hands.
_d_. One sweep of hand across the desk.
_e_. Right hand raised as high as head, fist closed.
_f_. Abruptly bring fist down on desk.
_g_. Similar to (a).
_h_. Hands clasped and eyes upturned as if gazing with
admiration at the tree.)
We are little snowflakes, _(a)_
Falling gently down,
On the fields and mountains
In the busy town.
Now the waving _(b)_ spruce trees
Shaking _(c)_ gently say,
Brush away this light snow, _(d)_
It's nearly Christmas day.
Then a man comes gayly
With his axe so bright, _(e)_
He chops down the spruce tree _(f)_
Early one fair night.
Then on Christmas morning
Children dance to see, _(g)_
Many lovely presents
On that stately tree. _(h)_
* * * * *
=Christmas Stories.=
By LETTIE STERLING.
(These stories may be said and done in concert, or each little
child may give one verse by himself.
_a_. Hands held straight up so tips of fingers point toward
ceiling.
_b_. Touch palm of hand with thumb, bring it back quickly.
_c, d, e, f_. Repeat _b_ with 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th fingers.
_g_. Double the hand up.
_h_. Place the doubled-up hand on the back of the other.
_i_. Lift thumb and hold it up.
_j_. Lift 1st finger.
_k_. Lift 2d finger.
_l_. Lift 3d finger.
_m_. Lift 4th finger.
_n_. Hold hands in a listless way, with tips of fingers
pointing toward floor for two first lines, and let the fingers
gently swing. Near the close of the verse make the fingers
still and rigid and hold them close together.
_o_. Have hands doubled up and held so that the child's eyes
can look down upon the palm or the hand and see the nails of
the four fingers--thumb out of sight.
_p_. Let fingers fly up quickly
_q_. Hold left hand as in _a_. Use the index finger of the
right hand as a match, scratching it on the palm of the left
hand and lighting the tips of each finger as if the fingers
were candles.
_r_. Make a circle of a thumb and index finger of the right
hand and slip it on and off each finger on the left hand.
_s_. Bunch fingers of left hand together so they can all touch
the tips of the thumb and form an opening for the window.
_t_. Bring the fingers of the right hand near and let them be
boys and girls peeping in.
_u_. Double up hands, but instead of having thumb inside, let
it stand straight up to be a tower.
_v_. Snap the fingers of one hand, then of the other.
_w_. Point far away with index finger.
_x_. Point toward an imaginary star.
_y_. Hold up the three middle fingers.)
Chimneys standing in a row, _(a)_
Down each one will Santa go.
He goes down one, comes back alive, _(b)_
And then tries two, _(c)_ three, _(d)_ four, _(e)_ and five. _(f)_
Santa has a wondrous pack, _(g)_
This he carries on his back; _(h)_
From it he takes candies, _(i)_ drums, _(j)_
Dolls, _(k)_ books, _(l)_ trumpets, _(m)_ when he comes.
Near the chimney stockings swing,
What to them will Santa bring?
All of them I'm sure he'll fill,
Make them round and stiff and still. _(n)_
Morning kisses curly heads
Lying snugly in their beds, _(o)_
O how quickly they hop out, _(p)_
Seizing stockings with a shout!
On the hemlock and the pine,
Light the candles, make them shine; _(q)_
String the rows of corn so white _(r)_
'Mong the gifts and tinsels bright.
Storemen's windows all look gay,
'Cause it's near to Christmas day. _(s)_
Come and look in, girls and boys, _(t)_
Get a peep at Christmas joys.
In high towers out of sight
Great bells ring with all their might; _(u)_
Hear one, then another chime, _(v)_
Telling it is Christmas time.
In the distance, look afar, _(w)_
With their eyes upon the star, _(x)_
Come on camels wise men three, _(y)_
They the Christmas King shall see.
* * * * *
=Christmas Pictures.=
(This set of pictures is suggested by Mrs. Kate Douglas
Wiggin's story of "The Birds' Christmas Carol," published by
Houghton, Mifflin & Company, Boston, Mass. Each picture should
be preceded by descriptions from the book; these are indicated
by the number of the page in the volume.
DIRECTIONS.--A good reader must be chosen, who can bring
out the light and shade in the story--one who can make the
listeners feel the pathos of Carol's brief, helpful existence
and the contrasting homely humor of "the Ruggleses in the
rear." A reading-desk and lamp must stand below the platform,
and the audience-room be left in darkness. The reader will
give the signal for the opening and closing of the curtains,
pausing long enough for a full recognition of the scene. As
a repetition of a tableau is often more successful than
its initial effort, the performers should be on the alert,
prepared to give a second view.
The characters in the story call for six young people to
represent Mr. Bird, Mrs. Bird, the Grandmother, Physician,
Mrs. Ruggles, and Uncle Jack, and fourteen children to take
the parts of Donald, Hugh, Paul, Carol, Sarah Maud, Peoria,
Cornelius, Elly, Kitty, Peter, Clem, Larry, Susan, and the boy
singer.
The first hymn, "Carol, Brothers, Carol," is to be sung
behind the curtains, just before they are drawn for the second
picture. A harp, violin, and triangle would assist the piano
in making an orchestral effect. A solo voice supplies the
closing air, "My Ain Countree." The piano may be played very
softly whenever the reader pauses and the tableaux are shown.
It is important that the arrangements for each scene be made
in absolute quietness, with systematic forethought, else
the attention of the listeners will be distracted from the
reading.
If a Christmas tree for the entire school is to close the
entertainment, it should be in readiness at the rear of the
platform, concealed by a curtain. In the sixth picture the
tree appears, to illustrate the story, and remains lighted
through the evening.)
FIRST PICTURE.
"They were consulting about it in the nursery." (Page 1 in "The Birds'
Christmas Carol.")
In this scene the children's belongings are scattered about: small
chairs, a cradle, toys, and picture-books. Mr. Bird stands in the
center of the platform holding a large doll dressed in infant's robes.
Grandma is seated near, and Uncle Jack, Donald, Paul, and Hugh are
discussing a name for the baby. The Christmas hymn is heard after the
curtains are drawn and before the
SECOND PICTURE.
"A famous physician had visited them." (Page 12.)
Mr. and Mrs. Bird and the doctor are seated around a library-table in
earnest conference.
THIRD PICTURE.
Carol's "Circulating Library." (Page 16.)
Carol is lying in an easy-chair beside a case filled with books. The
description of her room should be carried out on the stage as far as
practicable.
FOURTH PICTURE.
"The children took their places." (Page 36.)
The nine Ruggles children are seated in a row facing the audience.
Mrs. Ruggles stands before them, giving instructions about their
behavior at Carol's dinner party. The costumes must be fantastic,
following the description in the story--green glass breastpin, the
purple necktie, and much-braided hair.
FIFTH PICTURE.
"The feast being over," etc. (Page 35.)
Carol's room is shown again. The Ruggles children are seated around
Carol, with Mr. Bird and Mrs. Bird and Uncle Jack in the background.
SIXTH PICTURE.
"There stood the brilliantly lighted tree." (Page 55.)
The same characters that appeared in the preceding scene are shown in
attitudes of delight and astonishment as the second curtain is drawn
aside to show the Christmas tree.
SEVENTH PICTURE.
"Softly, Uncle Jack." (Page 63.)
The library is shown again. Mr. and Mrs. Bird, Uncle Jack, Donald,
Hugh, and Paul are grouped as if listening attentively. At the right
of the platform a leaded-window effect is made with a slender wood
frame covered with black gauze. Behind this stands a small boy in
choir vestments, holding a music book and singing "My Ain Countree" to
organ accompaniment.
* * * * *
=The Brownie Men.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(An exercise for four little boys. They wear padded trousers
of some cheap brown material and a loose shirt of same
material in place of the school jacket. Skull-caps of same
material, worn jauntily. Broad white rings about the eyes and
charcoal lines upon face to produce resemblance to pictured
Brownies. Jolly smiles and capers. Join hands and hop on
one foot around tree or leader, before, between, and after
verses.)
Merry, merry sprites are we,
Dancing round the Christmas tree.
We've a gift for every one
Though the last one is just done.
This has been a busy year,
And we hope we bring you cheer,
And when Christmas comes again,
Look for us--The Brownie men.
* * * * *
=Winter's Children.=
By J.D. MOORE.
(The children should wear some indication of the several
characters they impersonate. Most elaborate and beautiful
costumes might be used, but the simple device of a placard
upon each child's breast bearing the name of his part will
answer the purpose.)
_Wind_: I come from the cold and stormy North,
With a rush and a roar I hurry forth,
I toss from the trees the dead leaves down,
The withered leaves all sere and brown,
And sway the branches to and fro
As on my way I whirling go.
At crack and crevice I slip in,
And make a lively sounding din.
Swift I come and swift away,
With you I can no longer stay,
For I am wanted elsewhere now,
And so good-bye, I make my bow.
_Frost (taking Wind's hand)_:
Hand in hand we ever go
Through the season to and fro.
I breathe upon the streams. They cease
Their murmurings and are at peace.
Upon each window pane I trace
The finest filmy glistening lace.
Each boy and girl, 'tis plain to see,
Hath still a welcome kind for me.
For on the lake they whirl and wheel,
You hear the click of polished steel
As swift upon their skates they fly
With joyous heart and flashing eye.
My breath blows cold. Health, joy, delight,
Follow my silvery sparkles bright.
Now Snow, who is my guardian sweet,
Will all my young friends fondly greet.
_Snow (a little girl)_:
Over the earth so bare and brown
I spread a robe as soft as down.
Drifting, drifting down through space,
Hiding each unsightly place,
Touched to shimmering radiance bright,
In the moonbeam's mellow light,
By my brother Frost, for we (_they join hands_)
Both go hand in hand, you see.
North Wind goes gaily with us both,
To help us he is nothing loath.
And he and Frost and Rain combine
To give what in the clear sunshine
Shimmers sparkling--pure and nice,
Transparent, white, and glistening Ice.
_Ice_: I cling to lofty gables, I rustle 'mid the snow,
I weave a gleaming covering
For lakes and streams. They know
That all must cease their murmuring
When Frost and I appear,
For we will hold them firm and fast
As long as we are here.
Gleaming, glistening, sparkling,
Yet pure and clear and bright.
You'll find me 'neath a silver moon,
Each crisp, fresh winter night.
(_Enter Old Winter_)
_Winter_: What, ho! my children, here I am,
I've sought you everywhere.
And now to busy work away,
For you must all prepare
To do your duty while I hold
In check your enemy,
The great round sun, whose rays with you.
My children, disagree.
Now up, away! Wind, to the west
And come again in glee;
And join with Frost and Snow and Ice,
In one grand jubilee.
And paint the cheeks with roses
Of all these children who,
Right joyously will run and shout,
_My_ children dear, with you.
Away! to work, you must not shirk
Your duties, dears; and now,
To these, your firmest friends, make each
Your most engaging bow.
(_All bow and retire Old Winter following_.)
* * * * *
=Santa Claus.=
(Let the first line be given by a small boy as a herald,
carrying a trumpet, and dressed in tunic, tights, and velvet
cap. The second line it taken up by Santa Claus, in costume of
fur, with white beard and hair.)
A voice from out of the northern sky:
"On the wings of the limitless winds I fly.
Swifter than thought, over mountain and vale,
City and moorland, desert and dale!
From the north to the south, from the east to the west
I hasten regardless of slumber or rest;
O, nothing you dream of can fly as fast
As I on the wings of the windy blast!
"The wondering stars look out to see
Who he that flieth so fast may be,
And their bright eyes follow my earthward track
By the gleam of the jewels I bear in my pack.
For I have treasures for high and for low:
Rubies that burn like the sunset glow;
Diamond rays for the crownèd queen;
For the princess, pearls with their silver sheen.
"I enter the castle with noiseless feet--
The air is silent and soft and sweet;
And I lavish my beautiful tokens there--
Fairings to make the fair more fair!
I enter the cottage of want and woe--
The candle is dim and the fire burns low;
But the sleepers smile in a happy dream
As I scatter my gifts by the moon's pale beam.
"There's never a home so low, no doubt.
But I in my flight can find it out;
Not a hut so hidden but I can see
The shadow cast by the lone roof-tree!
There's never a home so proud and high
That I am constrained to pass it by,
Nor a heart so happy it may not be
Happier still when blessed by me!
"What is my name? Ah, who can tell,
Though in every land 'tis a magic spell?
Men call me that, and they call me this;
Yet the different names are the same, I wish!
Gift-bearer to all the world am I,
Joy-giver, light-bringer, where'er I fly;
But the name I bear in the courts above,
My truest and holiest name, is--LOVE!"
JULIA C.R. DORR.
* * * * *
=Father Christmas's Message.=
(This speech may be given at the close of a Christmas
entertainment. A white wig and beard, fur coat and gloves are
worn, and sleigh-bells are sounded before Father Christmas
appears on the platform.)
Here I am again. The close of the year
Brings Old Father Christmas with his good cheer
I'm cheery myself, and cheery I make
All folks who follow advice for my sake.
My advice is the same to all my friends:
Give and forgive, and quickly make amends
For what you do wrong. Let love be the rule.
Christians, be true at the season of Yule.
Old Father Christmas every one welcomes;
I bring peace and happiness to all homes.
Away with the bad. Have nothing but good.
Do what I tell you. If only you would,
You'd all live at one in true brotherhood.
I always brighten up all hearts. The spell
Of Christmas can all gloomy thoughts dispel.
My friends, right pleased am I to see you here.
How are you all? Pray come again next year.
I hope you've liked the fun we've had to-night;
If so, then now applaud with all your might.
J.A. ATKINSON.
* * * * *
=Mr. St. Nicholas.=
By ALICE M. KELLOGG.
(The characters are Old-fashioned Santa Claus, dressed in the
traditional costume of fur, white beard, and a Christmas pack;
Mr. St. Nicholas, in evening dress with silk hat; Dora, Katie,
Maggie, and little Bess; Harry, Charlie, Tom, and John in
ordinary school clothes.
The scene opens with a large fireplace arranged at the center
of the platform, a dark curtain drawn before the opening
to conceal Santa Claus. The accompaniment to "Nancy Lee"
is heard, and the eight children march in, carrying their
stockings.)
Oh, Christmas time has come again,
Tra la la la, tra la la la;
We welcome it with glad refrain,
Tra la la la la la.
Of all the happy holidays this year
There's none so joyous, none so dear,
Then sing we all our song of festive glee,
Of Santa Claus and Christmas tree.
_Chorus_.--Oh, ring the bells, the merry Christmas bells, Their music
all our pleasure tells. _(Repeat, singing tra la la whenever necessary
to give the rhythm. They pause in groups in center, right, and
left; some sit, others stand, and change their positions during the
dialogue)_
_Harry_: Oh dear, the same old thing again this year, I suppose! "Hang
up the baby's stocking, be sure you don't forget."
_Charlie_: _This_ baby's stocking is the biggest bicycle hose I could
buy. (_Pins it at one side of the chimney_.) I don't think old Santa
could miss it if he tried.
_Dora_: I made mine to suit the occasion, for I hope Santa Claus
will fit a zither into it. (_Displays a large, fantastically shaped
stocking of striking color, and fastens it beside Charlie's_.)
_Harry_: You ought to take a prize, Dora, for designing the
most--ahem!--unexpected-looking stocking. Generous sized, too! Here
goes my contribution to the chimney. (_Hangs up a sock_.) It's big
enough to hold a coin of gold that will buy me a new bicycle. I don't
care for any knick-knacks.
_Katie_: I must confess that I'm rather tired of this old custom of
hanging up our stockings on Christmas eve and crawling out of bed in
the cold dawn to see what is in them. I wish some one would invent a
new way.
_Maggie_: Just what I thought, Katie, last winter, though I never
spoke of it. But if you've hung your stocking up, I must have mine
there too. (_Goes to chimney_.)
_John_: Well, I refuse to fall in line this year. I'm tired of the
whole plan. It seems absurd for an old chap to come tumbling down the
fireplace and load up our stockings.
_Tom_: I agree with you, John! What we want is a new-fashioned
Christmas. A real, up-to-date Santa Claus, and no more of this
children's nonsense.
_Bess_: Not have Santa Claus any more? Isn't he coming to-night?
(_Cries_.)
_John_: Oh yes, he'll remember you if you're a good little girl and
stop crying. Dora, help Bess to fasten up her stocking.
(_After the stocking is fixed, Bess faces the audience and recites_.)
_Bess_: I do hope dear old Santa
Will come this way to-night,
And come here to my stocking,
To fill it nice and tight.
I'd like to watch and see him,
But I know I must wait
Till shines the Christmas sunshine--
I hope he won't be late.
_Tom_: Let Bess have her old-fashioned Santa Claus, but the rest of us
vote for something different.
_Harry_: I used to think Santa a pretty jolly old duffer, who made
lots of sport for the infants, but I'm ready for a change myself.
_Dora_: Don't count me in to help out your majority; Santa Claus seems
to me the kindly spirit of Christmas appearing mysteriously to give us
greater pleasure.
_Katie_: Well, I'll side with the boys this time and see if there is
any improvement in holiday matters.
_Charlie_: You'll think me a baby to stick to the old style. I won't
venture an opinion at all.
_Tom_: Then we are agreed that of Santa Claus we have no need.
_John_: }
_Kate_: } Tis what we all concede.
_Harry_: }
_Maggie_: }
_(All sing to the tune_ of "_Maryland, My Maryland_.")
Old Santa Claus is such a bore,
Of him we've had too much and more;
Now what we want is something new,
But what is there for us to do?
A new St. Nick would be the thing,
Who would our Christmas presents bring.
(_Electric bell sounds, the door opens, and Mr. St. Nicholas comes on
the stage. He bows and takes off his hat_.)
_Mr. St. N_.: Good evening, young people! I see you are at your
old-time tricks of hanging up your stockings. This won't do. Don't you
know it's gone out of fashion? (_Goes toward fireplace; the boys rush
to protect their property_.)
_John_: Who are you, sir? And how dare you interfere with our fun?
_Mr. St. N_.: I am the new, up-to-the-times Santa Claus. My proper
name is Mr. St. Nicholas. I am on my rounds to take the names of
all the young people who deserve a remembrance at Christmas time.
I haven't a moment to lose. My telephones are overburdened with
messages, my men are distracted with the work to be done between now
and daylight. _(Pulls out a book and pencil and prepares to write
while he addresses Tom and speaks rapidly without waiting for a
reply_.) Your name, young man? Your age, birthplace, parents' names?
Residence? Attendant at what school? What specific tastes? List of
last year's presents. Make haste, time is money.
_Katie_: But Santa--I mean Mr. St. Nicholas--here are our stockings.
_Mr. St. N_.: Christmas stockings! trash and nonsense. They belong to
the dark ages.
_Harry_: Pray, how do you bestow your gifts?
_Mr. St. N_.: By district messenger service, of course! Next boy
_(to Charlie_), give me your name, age, birthplace, parents' names,
residence, school, specific tastes, last year's presents.
_Charlie_: How did you come here, Mr. St. Nicholas? I heard no
sleigh-bells at the door.
_Mr. St. N. (scornfully)_: More nonsense to explain. I came down from
the north pole in an air-ship of the latest pattern. Come, now, here
are these girls waiting to be classified. _(To Dora.)_ Name, age--
_Dora_: I won't be put in statistics, even if it is Christmas and you
are the patron saint.
_Charlie_: Nor I. I didn't vote for any improvements. Take them away.
_John:_ You seem a trifle ahead of the age, Mr. St. Nicholas, or else
we made a great mistake in being discontented with our old-fashioned
Christmas.
_Tom_: Allow me to call down your air-ship.
_(Mr. St. Nicholas is ushered to the door. The others turn back at the
sound of sleigh-bells. Santa Claus appears at the fireplace_.)
_Children (greeting him with enthusiasm_): Jolly _old_ Saint Nicholas!
_Santa Claus_: Oh! ho! ha! ha! Are you really glad to see such an
old-fashioned specimen as I am?
_John_: Indeed we are! We have just shown your usurper the door.
_Bess_ (_clasping S.C.'s hand_): You are the real Santa Claus.
_Santa Claus_: Yes, I am the real Santa Claus, and I cannot get to
work until you children are fast asleep. So scurry away as fast as you
can, and a merry, merry Christmas when you awake!
_Children_ (_singing to the tune of "Nancy Lee," end at the end
leaving the stage_):
Oh! Christmas time has come again,
Tra la la la, tra la la la.
We welcome it with glad refrain,
Tra la la la la la.
Of all the happy holidays this year,
There's none so joyous, none so dear,
Then sing we all our song of festive glee,
Of Santa Claus and Christmas tree.
_Chorus_.--O ring the bells, the merry Christmas bells, Their music
all out pleasure tells. (_Repeat._)
(_Santa Claus unpacks his goods, and as he fills the stockings he
performs various antics, holds up the objects, and dances about. Any
local expressions that will create amusement he can bring in with
running commentaries. The piano is heard softly till he is through,
and then bursts out loudly as the curtain is drawn._)
* * * * *
=Christmas Offerings by Children from Other Lands.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(DIRECTIONS.--This exercise may be given by six little girls.
The platform may be decorated with evergreen trees or boughs,
and flags should be used freely. The American girl should be
dressed in an American flag and wear a cap of red, white, and
blue. The costumes of the others may be as follows:
The Eskimo girl should procure a boy's fur coat, or wrap a fur
rug about her and wear a fur cap or hood and fur mittens.
The Indian girl can throw about her a gay-colored blanket,
and wear strings of beads about her neck, arms, and head. Her
straight dark hair should be parted in the middle, plaited
in two braids in the back, and decorated with short pieces of
bright ribbons. Moccasins and dark brown stockings may be worn
on the feet. Bracelets, earrings, chains, beads, quills, and
brooches may be used as ornaments. The hands, arms, and face
should be stained. To color the skin get a stick of Hess
Grease Paint No. 17. Rub a little vaseline into the skin to
be tinted. Then rub a portion of the paint on the palm of the
left hand and with the fingers of the right hand transfer
it evenly to the skin surface until the required tint is
obtained.
The Chinese girl should be dressed brightly with large,
square, loose hanging sleeves, a broad sash tied on one side,
her hair brushed flat, coiled in the back, with haircomb and
pins thrust into the coil. She may have a Japanese parasol and
carry a fan.
The African girl may be dressed in red and black, with black
hair and red handkerchief over her head and large rings in her
ears. Face and hands blackened with burnt cork.
The Arabian girl can wear a tunic or bright shawl draped about
her, a turban of a bright silk handkerchief, and wear feathers
in her hair. She should be very dark-complexioned
The American girl enters, takes her seat in the center of the
platform, saying:)
_American girl_:
And this again is Christmas day;
My invitations all
Have gladly been accepted;
Let us see who first will call.
(Eskimo girl enters, bows, comes forward with a fur bag filled
with presents, which she passes to the American girl as she
mentions them.)
_Eskimo girl_:
I'm a little Eskimo girl,
I live in the land of ice,
We never saw a Christmas tree
Nor fruits and candies nice;
But we run races o'er the snow,
Beneath the big, bright moon,
And from this far away ice-land,
I've brought you a nice bone spoon.
My father hunts all through the day
For reindeer, seal, and bear,
And sends away in ships so strong
These furs so rich and rare,
And fish, and birds, and whales, you know,
I've seen them many a time,
And here's a pretty fur for you
That came from the arctic clime.
(Eskimo girl offers presents and steps to one side. American
girl turns and places presents on the boughs beside her. Enter
Indian girl.)
_Indian girl_:
I'm a little Indian girl,
I live in the far Northwest,
In the land of the Dakotas,
In the land I love the best.
I've brought a nice bead-basket,
I made it all. You see
I know about your Christmas
A happy day to thee.
And here's an arrow-head for you,
And a piece of pottery queer,
And here are herbs for medicine good,
To make you strong, my dear.
We children shoot and fish and hunt
Just as our fathers do,
The whole wide forest is our home:
It feeds and clothes us, too.
(Steps aside. Enter Chinese girl.)
_Chinese girl_:
I'm a little Chinese girl,
They say I've almond eyes,
I live in a boat, on a river we float,
And often eat rice and rat pies.
And here is a bamboo basket,
Filled with choicest tea,
I picked and dried it all myself
It comes from Ken See Lee. (_Bows low_.)
With us we have no Christmas,
No presents nor a tree;
But there in the boat, I made this toy,
This, too, comes from Ken See Lee.
(Chinese girl bows low and takes a seat on low stool in front
of American girl. Enter African girl.)
_African girl_:
I'm a dark little African girl,
I live in a forest land,
With kinky curls and jet black eyes,
I watch the elephant band.
My father hunts these animals,
From one of them I bring
An elephant's tusk to you, my friend,
'Twill make you a pretty ring.