a series of six plays, interspersed with original and adapted
music, in- tended for private acting in young people's Christmas parties or other entertainments. Apologies are offered in the preface both to the.
Laureate, whose "Princess," is parodied, and to the musical com- posers, whose airs are sot to words less dignified than the originals ; but we think no one can be angry with anything conceived and carried out in so genial a spirit. The use of overtures and glees, which are sure to be at hand in any musical household,. adds very much to the convenience and economy of the performances.
Tho plays arc mostly parodies of the familiar nursery tales, all, in- deed, except the "Princes" and a capital little farce at the end, called "A Charade." The song of tho Beast, his colloquy with the- merchant, and the adapted choruses from Spohr, must be most effec- tive if well done, which they may easily be, as the original music has none of the terrific difficulties with which it is apt to be spoilt. In the lan- guage of the plays, thew is certainly a very free use of current slang, but no real vulgarity of feeling or suggestion ; while the humour throughout is sparkling and bright. We had thought of venturing on
a quotation, but such things need their appropriate setting, se we re- commend those who arc interested in young people's retentions to, got the book, and thus ensure some splendid fun for the actors and audience. They are not intended or adapted for children.
Previous page
