Quits: A Comedy in One Act — Quits E-Book

Abbie Farwell Brown

• Herausgeber: Booksell-Verlag
• Kategorie: Poesie und Drama
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2020

Beschreibung

In "Quits: A Comedy in One Act," Abbie Farwell Brown masterfully combines humor and social commentary through a cleverly constructed narrative centered around the theme of reconciliation and the unexpected consequences of decisions. Written in a punchy, accessible style typical of early 20th-century comedic theatre, the play employs witty dialogue and sharp characterizations to explore the nuances of friendship and rivalry. Set against a backdrop of lively interactions, Brown crafts a scenario that not only entertains but also prompts readers to reflect on the nature of conflict and resolution in human relationships. Abbie Farwell Brown, an influential figure in the American literary scene, was known for her ability to weave profound truths into engaging narratives. Her experiences in Boston, as well as her interest in the dynamics of societal norms, significantly influenced her writing. Given her strong feminist leanings and representation of diverse characters, it'Äôs clear that Brown sought to challenge conventional wisdom while providing a platform for humor to facilitate understanding and connection among her audience. "Quits" is highly recommended for readers seeking a light-hearted yet thought-provoking theatrical experience. Its comedic yet insightful exploration of human relations makes it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. Whether you are a seasoned theatre enthusiast or new to the genre, Brown's work is sure to leave you entertained and contemplative.

Leseprobe

Abbie Farwell Brown

Quits: A Comedy in One Act — Quits

A Comedy in One Act

Published by Good Press, 2022

[email protected]

EAN 4064066065546

Table of Contents

Cover

Titlepage

Text

Quits: A Comedy in One Act — Quits: A Comedy in One Act

Table of Contents

BOSTON

Walter H. Baker & Co.

"QUITS." CHARACTERS.

Kittie Goldthwaite, a Senior.Gladys Courtenay, her Friend.Miss Griffin, Principal of White Elms Seminary.Fred Olney, Cousin to Gladys.Charlie Goldthwaite, Kittie's Brother, in love with Gladys.

Scene.— Girl's Parlor at White Elms Seminary. Afternoon of the Senior Reception.

COSTUMES.

Miss Griffin.— Dark dress, white kerchief and cap, glasses.Kittie.— First costume, as much like Miss Griffin's as possible. Rest of the play, silk waist and skirt.Gladys. — Pretty house dress.Men. — Ordinary afternoon costumes.

PROPERTIES.

Cap, spectacles, box of rouge, charcoal stick; two dress-suit cases; empty envelope, card; olives, crackers, tea-things, etc.

QUITS.

Scene.— Typical college-girls' room. Racquets, banjo, etc. Table R. C., with books and writing-materials; tea-table, L. U. E.; screen, L. C.; before it a divan and ottoman; chairs, R. and L.; mirror hung on wall, R. U. E. doors, R., L., and C.

(GladysandMiss Griffindiscovered seated on the divan.)

Miss Griffin. Yes, my dear. I shall be very happy to take tea with you and Katherine this afternoon and meet your young relatives. You say they are your brothers?

Gladys. Our brother and cousin, Miss Griffin.

Miss G. Ah, you are relatives, then? I did not know that.

Gla. No; Kittie and I are not relatives—exactly. But Charlie—Mr. Goldthwaite, is her brother, and Fred Olney is my cousin.

Miss G. Ah, I see. (Rising.) Well, my dear, as I previously remarked, I shall he very glad to meet the young men. I should be most happy to stay with you now till they come, and give them a suitable reception to this institution, if my other duties were not so arduous. There are many necessary contingencies to be attended to, however, before the reception to-night, so I fear I must resign that pleasant task to you, my dear. (Kittieappears in costume in doorway, R.; Gladyswildly waves her back, behindMiss Griffin; Kittiedisappears again.)

Miss G. But I shall be with you at six promptly. Pray present my compliments to the young gentlemen, and excuse my not being here to receive them. Good-afternoon, my dear. (Exit, C.)

Gla. Well, I am thankful she didn't insist upon staying, or we should have lost all our joke upon the boys, and perhaps have got into a scrape besides. (Kittieappears in doorway, R., again.)

Kit. (whispering). Is she gone?

Gla. Yes; come in. But what a scare you gave me just now!

(EnterKittiedressed likeMiss Griffin; tosses cap and spectacles intoGladys's lap; minces about the stage affectedly.)

Kit. Well, how do I look?

Gla. Capital. You are a beauty.

Kit. (going to mirror, R. U. E.; posing before it). I'm so glad ​you like me. (ImitatingMiss Griffin's drawl, and turning about.) Do I sufficiently resemble my respected preceptress?

Gla. Good! There, screw your mouth like that again—more on the other side. (Kittiegrimaces, attempting to imitateMiss Griffin's puckered mouth.)

Kit. I haven't quite got the hang of my mouth yet. Mine isn't really big enough. Now, I must have a few more wrinkles, and a more roseate nose. Where's the rouge? (Goes to mirror, and begins lining in wrinkles with a charcoal stick.)

Gla. (crossing to table, R.). Here it is. (Handing rouge-box toKittie.)

Kit. Mercy! Miss Griffin didn't see that box on the table, did she? She would think her academy was disgraced forever. Heavens! A rouge-box in my young ladies’ room! Help—oh! (She screams affectedly, and drops in a chair as if faint.)

Gla. Nonsense! She didn't see it. Come, you must hurry, Kit, or they will be here. It is time for them now, unless they are looking around for Mabel and Emma. Hurry, dear, and compose your countenance. (Kittiesprings up, and begins to smooth her hair before the mirror.)

Kit. There, I am sure Charlie will never know me, he is so near-sighted. And as for your cousin (turns about with rouge box in her hand, rubbing her nose as she speaks), it is three years since I saw him last, and I hardly think he will suspect I have aged quite so fast, even from being deprived of his fascinating company; do you?