University of Virginia Library

CHRISTMAS PIECES. (Not at all suited to the Stage, but the very thing for the Front Drawing-room.)

The following little Dramas are strongly recommended to families anxious to amuse themselves, and (as a secondary consideration) their friends, at this festive season of the year, with private theatricals. If destitute of any other merit, they, at all events, possess those of brevity and simplicity. The importance of the former, in such representations, we need not impress upon the amateur (such of his friends who have had the fortune

to witness his previous efforts, having, doubtless, already done so),—whilst the latter will enable him to triumph over all difficulties in the shape of “getting up,” or “mounting,” (generally such sad up-hill work with non-professionals!) As descriptive placards, in the Elizabethan style, will supply the place of scenery, and no “appointments” need be cared about, beyond those requisite for rehearsals (which are never kept), the pieces may be got up literally regardless of expense (if we except the preliminary three-and-sixpence for prompt copy). And it is hoped the general lightness of the productions will admit of their being supported (or borne) without taxing the entire strength of the company.