.. ‘0. I. . . u x - u s t . . . o. . .. .. . 4 . . . LL _ _ g . .. "5 _ . . "'I. I _ | I . _.— . Q .I .I A o p . . _. m. u o . . _ “- . I V II . ’0 . O h o - 0 ‘ a . . O I Q h I a .O‘ u _ . _ _ .. , .. _ I. _ .. w. . . I. . . . . _. . q .. .Q . . . . . . . I I. i . I . I ,t . . . . ".r 00" ¢ 0 ppm . A. . _. P ‘ o a _ .— 0 _ . I I . . . I I * . I a a . I o A. . . _ ..'.’.a . I . 4 o . . .I v ' 1. I o _. “ .‘ I. v I I u .. . o .. 3. .. . 1 . _ . . I . __ . In r w o. u. I . «I _ | — I .- o . . _ I I. . - . . I. _ .. . _ .f ”I .. .. . . a ‘ ‘ 5 _ 9 . _. . a. ... I o I . . 9 _ d _ r. i O _ . ‘ b... u a.“ . . H4- . . 1! I O O. . . . . an. 0 . II no. I 7 . I .o .o _ _ . . . a - r . — . I v _ . I rbu u 9. .. . I a o _ u «A. . I . ILr'. I _ . I II I . Q _ f . . I .n..«*:. o . ‘ . . n I . I . . . o v . I . v _ O I I I I II I - i; . .I o I I ’ I Y I . . . - B— . . - I C I I u I O I . o , In _ H , . ' 5 . n I I - u . . . a 0...” -. . . A. . I! .r ' I . . . I . _ . ’.. g n ._ I I I III I I Y II I I I . . . . I I .I I I I I . y . ' I ‘2‘ I . A | .. . I I . D | _ 4 ‘ . . . I - r... . .. O. p I - v I' o I . ' 0. III I.Oo...I-Il. , II III..OOO| ..... ,I a. c.0l . .,I ‘06... 0 c I I.‘I n 0.. II \. II III § DIIuv‘IMHI ucotllllIlQll I I I . I . ‘1‘ I . IO I II I I . I I ‘t! I... .II. |.InI¢ I‘Qla I OR I . .I I... I . .r. . _ I I .I . . I . .I I . . . . . I 0 II o v y . I I . V I a I I 0- V I n. I I V I ' 1:! I I c I II . I ‘ a. - O a I 1-“. a .. I. I I . . I I I I I I . I 0 cl . u<| . . I I I 1‘ I I out . . Ia , u. I ~ I I I I I . I V . - . I v .I - . . . . I . I I . .I . . . . - I . H I I I . .I v I I.. I .I In I I I.I . I I. I .I I..II II I I. I I . I . 9 . I II . L,” . I v. .. I . . I . . . II I I I . . I I - .. c . a . v ..a I . I . .I .\I,.. .. -.. . . . m - I . I . . . I. . ... I I . I I ' n I I, O I I \ I v . . . Iv V a Ivl _ C .0 C I I I I v . 0 _ . Iv . . . . . . . K Y ¢D .l 0 vi Q u I .. a I I I o a v -i-IIO- C 4 A o . . .5... . - - I .0. I . . O . 4 I - . ... .. x I . I I O . . . . . - . . . , ... .. . I.I.\. 1'I I o I I r. I . a . I o ‘ v11” ' M (‘T’i’xfl '1 ' L “k k L — J. t ‘ ' ' 3 at": fl y", Ada-32,363: ' lfilfik ~l‘, ’ 4’1! thkl‘jtlt‘lfiy’fi‘ ' I . k {-3 Jgj“ '4} 4.2“. - «‘45:; x ‘ l , ~ 31293 10361 275 This is to certify that the thesis entitled "How the Stars Were Made", an original children's play and an analysis of the production prob- lems. presented bg Patricia McKenna Dye has been accepted towards fulfillment of the requirements for ILA. degree in _Sp22.ch_ Major professor Date {/é/‘jfi/ /' 0-169 -—--~_--,- 9- w pp. ‘0“._“ ererewe rnmrsg . 3 eee W W per fim J fl) \ Z 7 V 7 E c [fag rememe meme rmermsg fiigfggwi g [Pileee m beek reeerun tie rerere ”db ‘3‘“: % meme free eiree‘fleiéfier reeeree m were were warm] i :3 J (“’4’ "How THE STARS W3 RE ”ADE" AN ORIGINAL CHILDREN'S PLAY AND AN ANALYSIS or THE} PRODUCTION PROBLELB By Patricia licKenna {Me A THESIS Submitted to the School of Graduate Studies of Michigan State College of Agriculture and Applied Science in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF ARTS Department of Speech, Dramatics, and Radio Education 1951 .lll‘l'lulll'l l. \llII-tlll [[pl'lrl‘ldl‘llll‘l' Ell" ‘L'lllll‘lll ll," AC KN OWLE DO WE NT The author wishes to thank the members of her committee, Mr. Donald 0. Buell, Miss Eleanor Chase, Mr. Stuart Chenoweth, and Dr. David Potter, for the assistance and encouragement they so willingly gave during the writing of the play, the production, and the drafting of the thesis. To Dr. Wilson B. Paul, Mr. Ralph Duckwall, Mr. Harold Niven, and the members of the cast and crew of the play, the author gratefully offers her appreciation for their part in linking the production possible. ********** ******** ****** **** *4! It DEDICATION To My TIother and Father and My Husband TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE I THE ACTING SCRIPT OF "HOW THE STARS WERE MADE"............ 6 Description of Characters............................. 6 ACt I Scene 1.0000000000000000...0.000000000000000I... 7 ACt I Scene II...cocoon-0000.00.00.00.-ooocooooooooooo 17 ACt II Scene 10000000000000.00000000000000000000000000 52 ACt II Scene 1100.00.00.00.00000000000000000000000000. 41 ACt III Scene Io.00000000000000.0000.oooooo00000000000 55 ACt III Scene 110000000000.00000000000.00.000.000.000. 71 II VRQITI}IG FOR CTIILDREIJ.’OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.0.00.00.00.000.... 81 Fundamfintals Of Play WTiting.......................... 81 IllUStration Of Fundamentals.......................... 92 III DIRECTIKG AND DESIGNING FOR CHILDREI‘I...”................. 107 Fundamentals of Directing and Design.................. 107 IllUStmtion Of Fundamentalsooooooooooooooooooocoo00.0 126 IV THE PRODUCTION BOOK OF "HOW THE STARS WERE I‘.’I.A.DE".......... 135 V SIDE-‘IARY OBSERVATIOI‘JS BASED ON "HOW THE STARS WERE BLADE"... 168 BIBLIOGRAHIY...00.0.00...0.00.0.0...0.0.0.0...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCOOO 187 LI ST OI“ I LLTTST RAT I OH S ASTARAS "I knCWooo but Still..." ACt I Scene II 0000000000000 setting-Act II scenel ............................ AUNT: "She has delusions, Homer... That child is suffering." (DELIVERS THE spoon) Act II Scene II AUNT: "Little Beggar... get away from here.... We have nOthing for you." ACt III Scene I ooooooooooooooooooooo ASTARA: "IS it yours, Vadi?" ACt III Scene I 00.000.000.00... Setting ' ACt III Scene II 00000000000000.0000.cocoon THOR: "She nude you promise to bring the Cloak back: Well, have yOU?" ACt III Scene II 00000000000000.0000000000.. PAGE 2 5 37 45 57 62 72 74 INT R0 DUCT I OH AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY "The children's theatre in the United States is of very recent origin, but no country, perhaps, has at the present time more wide- spread interest in developing such a theatre."1 With this "widespread interest" there consequently arises a need for a statement of tech- niques and methods; a need for materials designed for the exclusive use of such a theatre; and a need for exploration into the scope of this area in terms of directing and designing. The purpose of this thesis was to (1) write and produce a full length children's play, and (2) to analyze the writing, directing, and designing techniques employed, primarily in view of the fundamen- tals proferred by two of the foremost authorities in children's theatre, Winifred ward of Northwestern.University, and Charlotte Chorpenning of the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. Before examining the progress of children‘s theatre in the United States, its European antecedents should be considered. Stephanie de Genlis was probably the most pronounced forerunner of our modern conception of theatre for children. Madame de Genlis, who served as governess to the children of the Duke of Chartes in the late eighteenth century, taught not only manners and mwrals but also academics by means of playmaking. However, madame de Genlis was more than a century ahead of her time, for, while she fostered the idea of __‘ 1 Winifred ward, Theatre For Children. (NeW'York: D. Appleton Century Company, 1939), p. 21. a children's theatre, the other European countries contented themselves with including children and children's stories in their religious festivals and morality plays. Then Russia took the lead; for, in 1918, under the direction of Natalia Satz, the Mbscow Art Theatre estab- lished a children's theatre. This project gradually expanded until it could boast a "choice of plays any day in the week" to all the children of Moscow.2 The United States first recognized the value of children's theatre in about 1892, when the social settlements began to use drama in their programs. A few years later, 1903, the first theatre for children in the United States was established in New York City by Alice Minnie Herts under the direction of Emma Sheridan Frye.3 Shortly afterward, the Drama League of America, established in 1910, became one of the first national groups to sponsor children's theatre. This league opened a Junior Drama Department headed by Cora Mel Patten. Its work was pri- marily fundamental, for through the medium of its publication, The Drama Magazine, Mrs. Patten set forth principles of organization, and reported on the various activities of the member groups,4 compiled lists of plays, and planned programs for special celebrations.5 3 Ibid., pp. 10-21. 3 Ibid., p. 21. 4 Cora Mel Patten, "How To Organiza A Junior Drama League," The Drama magazine, 11:31, October, 1920. 5 Cora Mel Patten, "Christmas Plays for Children," The Drama Magazine, 11265, November 1920. The Drama League of America fathered many children's theatres, and certainly can claim credit for boosting general interest in the area.6 In 1921, the Junior League of Chicago played "Alice in'Wonderland." The success of the production led eventually to the adoption of children's theatre as a national project of the Junior League, to be deve10ped and promulgated by the member chapters. One hundred and forty-eight Junior League chapters in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Honolulu, were producing plays for children in 1958.7 The number of producing groups has not increased substantially since that time.8 Colleges and universities, too, have done much to enhance the children's theatre program. Among the pioneers in collegiate children's theatre is Winifred'ward, who, in 1925, as an agent of the School of Speech of Northwestern University, helped found a children's theatre in Evanston, Illinois. Two years later, the Board of Education and the Parent-Teacher Association of the community elected to assist the University in sponsoring the theatre, thereby making it a community institution.9 The development and growth of producing children's theatre organ- izations has been steady over these last twenty-five years. The latest listing of the Directory of Children's Theatres shows a total of 6 Ward, 92. 332., p. 23. 7 Ibid., pp. 24-25. 8 Personal interview, Mrs. John Seaman, July 16, 1951. Q'Ward, pp, cit., pp. 25-26. one hundred and forty-eight groups producing for children in the United States.10 - 'With this growth there has also developed a distinct necessity for more plays written specifically for children. The Children's Script Evaluation Committee of the American Educational Theatre Asso- ciation in 1948 recommended seventy full length plays as ones which can.be made into "exciting theatre for children.“1 Then, too, in preparing this study, a comparative dearth of material on producing for children was found. This is with the obvious exception of ward's book, Theatre For Children, and the records of the conferences of the Children's Theatre Committee of the American Educational Theatre Association. 'With these two points in mind, this author has been interested_in writing and producing a children's play'with the proj- acted view of adding her findings to the field. So that there will be no misunderstanding of the terms used by the author, there follows a definition of each of the less familiar phrases in the title of the study. Full length - By this the author means a play with a running time of from.one hour and a half to one hour and three quarters in length, including scene changes. 10 Children's Theatre Directory, The American National Theatre and Academy, August 15, 1950. 11 Louise C. Horton, Editor, Handbook for Children's Theatre Directors, (Cincinnati: College Hill Station, 1949), p. 22. Children's Play - This refers to a play written for children to be performed either by children or by adults, but to be given for an all-child audience. Production Problems - By using this phrase, the author attempted to describe all the problems involved in writ- ing and directing the play. This includes a considera- tion of designing for the child audience as well. For the purposes of this study, the problem will be divided into the following chapters: Chapter I will be the acting script of the author's play, "How The Stars were Made"; Chapter II will revieW'the literature dealing with the fundamentals of writing for children and give illustrations of these fundamentals from the author's play; Chapter III will investigate the fundamentals of directing and designing for children and again enumerate the author's specific experiences; Chapter IV will be the production book of the author's play; and Chapter V will summarize the problems involved in the production of "How The Stars Were made". nn E HOW THE STARS WE? MADE DESCRIPTION OF CHARACTERS: VADI: THOR: IDON: ASTARA: FATHER: AUNT: ODIN: GUARD: CHILDREN: A boy of 11, good-looking and'well-built. His official title is imp of the gods. Sometimes he is a braggart; sometimes a lovable little boy; sometimes a thoroughbred devil; sometimes all sweetness and light...but at all times he is Astara's friend and cohort...a delightful, normal, all-boy. The god of night and day. He is a big man, and when he speaks, there is a rumble. He carries his thunder hammer at all times. He is very proud of himself, his power over the mortals, and his position in Valhalla. Odin is the only one who can subordinate him. His body gives off a gold glow which the mortals call daylight. A sweet faced middle-aged woman with a soft, sweet voice. She is thoroughly kindly and motherly. A pretty little girl, age 12. She has a very pleasant and charming manner. She is thoroughly sympathetic for the audience. Named Homer. He is a woodcutter, very soft-spoken and kind. He dearly loves his child, Astara, and is grateful to his sister-in-law, Anna, for managing his household. Named Anna. She is Astara's maternal aunt. She is a lithe, not too unattractive woman with a voice like a fingernail on the black board. She resents Astara. Her main interest is her long black hair...and her main love is a parakeet called Keetie, which perches on her wrist most of the time. She is a pampered, selfish, nagging woman 0 He is king of the gods. He has a tremendous voice...and a commanding manner. Yet he is kind and sympathetic. He is at all times a very godly figure. Servant to Odin. Tall and muscular. NEIL: A sweet, naive boy of 9. Harta's brother. NMRTA: A nice, though rather gossipy girl of 8. LARS: A big boy of 10. The rough house of the group. Christina's brother. CHRISTINA: A homely child of 12. HOW THE STA RS ITERE ..‘TADE Light Cu 6 Hog"): Iho . I.:__of._f_ UH. emergenfl d i magonal. Coming“ pC_sets_hann1er on "13c112;Lflo n2: DELL“.-- 1 ”9‘19.“ R. megabit» ---...__. . ‘NM «ablwzv wag-nag :I-J‘—~. 5.4-.“n. v-\-.J<.'\. —- -' , a-.. w - "'- t t v - $3913-}N hides pepper shaker ‘* \4‘3’11 pitcher. X DRAM ... ........ SCE‘TS: THE CURTAINS OPEI.T ON A LAVISH 1;- “TI G COITTAINING IIT PIP. TICULAR, 3 LARGE ‘IAIRS AND A TABLE. Ol‘.T TIE TABLS ARE A PITCH 3R AI‘TD 3 GLAS ES. TTTE ENTIRE SGT BSSPEAKS T513 PLACE...VAL;L ALLA. VAEI, A BOY or 11, IS HIDDEN Pam-10 THE Lute-13:1 VCUAIRHKC). __HE PEEKS 0111, AND sum 1:0 ONE 11-: SIGHT, HE JLPCLS, 1111 111111 A PEPPER SH‘JER. HE POURS TIEDE 111101111111 PT 10111113 NTO ONE OF THE GLA 33113, AND THEN SPPIEA :LES IT LI EPALLY [1111 PE PPE HE PICKS UP 1:13 GLASS A110 GIGGLE s... A GIGGLE IEDICATIVE 01‘ ALL vAEI same '1‘ 1,011 113 13 111E I P 01‘ VALALLAx . _ JUST 11mm THOR IS HEA ..RD CALLIHG VADT. VADI PEPLAC- .3 ms GLES JUST A S THOR HEW" .mmTHQRS Haht There you are, imp; VADI 10:31—11 1EEKLY. 111111 A son): At your bidding, great god Thor. THOR: At my biddingl Where is my cup of mede? You know it's time for me to begin my walk of nightl VADI: I do... and I have your mede all ready for you. (.GQP§._.T.9..G¥TT.IT) I've even poured it. __ THOR: Ah... That's the way it should be... That's the way you should act all the time, Vadi. Then your duties would be well done. VADI: You're right, god Thor. THOR (WITH GUSTO): or course I'm right ... I'm always right. When will you learn that? I, Thor, the great god of night and day, am never wrong. Vadi X L to Thor. Backing to C. . -4..- __ ... ...-4.x. .w-u.n..dt¢~.\t.. ":HI—J"." 1-4 . v m 1 1 Jedgingnbacmrds $13311} - Wa.to.._OL . 'T‘O \Man’cs to chair L._ $1911 sighs - 11 CH _L Q"Lchso f1_ut__e. ..ah'." _,,,._ .Bring it here. ‘ .1 VADI: ......VADI = leave. . VADI: __ THQRI; Never mind that. VADI (AEXIOUS): Your mede, Thor. Will you take it now? THOR: What? Oh, yes, yes, Vadi. (TAT-'33 TEDE. . .) There is no one who can fool rThor... no one who can escape his great wrath. I defy 9.er one who says he can. VADI (OBVIOUSLY AITXIOUS TO GET AWAY): ”“Yes, oh Thor... and now may I leave? I have work to do... THOR (AGITATEO): For whom? VADI: For my mother. THOR: How many times must I tell you to call her the moon: Here in Valhalla, there are no mothers... no fathers... only gods and slaves. You are a slave. So is the moon. Of course, Thor. Thy I leave? I fOPgOto oo ”THOR: _You may not! . You shall stay with me. Entertain me for a while... as I rest and enjoy my made. Please, Thor... I really must THOR (AITGRILY): Enough: You stay: And now some music to soothe me. I'll get my lyre... I left it in the throne room. I see your flute there. Use that. Hmmnm. I do dearly enjoy this made... it's made from the honey of the best bees in Valhalla. (HE TTTISTE THE GLASS 111 HIS TDS..._,G 3338 AT THE CLEAR LIQUID) So sweet... so smooth... W ‘ . EF 1301‘. HE GOES INT F 019; comom'lons... THAN smsmss GLASS v- I F UTE IN HAND GOES INTO WW (DURING CHASE): Vadi." Vadim C bove Where are you, you imp? I'll teach W. you to play jokes on me. Come here. i 16 Come here. I shall punish you for Vai this. Vadit I comnnnd you... heads i_.r_1 gat direction. 9 runs C t on U and under table. TEE? §o§1§m liar-iii 5:5 WWI, W VADI IS MAYS JUST A QII mfl NIWLE' THEN THOR STRIKESHE THE PEPPER SHAKER .r 'Pfibs hm . 8t 3'; 'aO: ‘ ‘ir A e :I h = H“ 51‘. ‘ u 3. .- 3 u \. WU! mm I've caughtloam and you Won't 8 THOR (A GREAT ROAR): Now... Hah... W0 get away. 2133;. g: g - Ihg; R of Vadi. VADI (FRIGH'I‘ENED): I... 1.... I was only playing a joke... I didn't mean to anger you.... THOR: You will be punished for this... I have it: I shall banish you to the top of Nethermost Mountain... and you will stay there until I summon you. VADI (PLEADING): Nethermost mountain! Oh, great god Thor, stuff no in a cloud... ring me with lightening... do anything... but please don't send me to Nethermost Mountain. 0 I'll. ‘lllll'llll'l'l'li mTthW _Vadi front _of Tmhor Manmmmmr- '12-- t oward DR entranc e. ..Vad i... .. GXit$_..DR°. _, .. AISLSZELAQQ§9rS Din Qgc._ an - .- VHW'“D~W \ .... >M'»w\fl\u_ .- “..- ‘ JEOIOD AND SUBOUEO. 10 THOR (FIRM): Enough: I have made my decision... and I shall not change my mind: VADI: But Nethermost Mountain; Why there is no one... nothing... there) I'll be all by myself. THOR: And so you should be. An imp such as you deserves to be banished from Valhalla... but only Odin, the King of the Gods has power enough for that. Now” fetch my Cloak of Deep Darkness... and be quick about it! VADI (HUT‘IIBLY): Yes, great god.. THOR: It is time for me to begin my walk of night... the mortals are already yawning and stretching... ready for sleep. And after this night, I shall personally take you to Nethermost I.Iountain.... Now, off with you. VADI NODS AND cu‘iITS.m__ mIIEm IS VERY DE- RLOOKS AFTER. IR‘T A“I,D UTIYI ELDI IG._ myIE MOON EW‘LRS AK D BOWS TO THOR. +$T1R MOON: Oh Thor, god of night and day, have you seen my son? THOR: I most certainly have. IOON (ANXIOUS): Do I detect anger in your voice and eyes? THOR: You do. MOON: Not Vadit Not again! THOR: Again, Moon. That son of yours has played his last trick on me. This . time I mean to teach him a lesson he will long remember. MOON: What have you done with him? 11 .X to UR then to DR corner of m‘_ THORgm Nothing yet._m But as soon as 'table: pick up harm‘zer._mmvmmm.~ ”mm_ _this wallc of night is over, I shall personallgr escort him to the highest peak of Nethermost MOuntain.... and there he will stay. mxohbalanceww”gm.“WMWWM I’DON: Nethermost Mountain! But Thor... the child will be all alone... There is no other living thing on that mountain. THOR: Just as it should be. Vadi has well deserved this punishment. MOON (ALMOST DEFIANT): No child de- serves punishment like that. To be alone... without playmates... without company. 0 o THOR: Enough, slave! my mind is set. Vadi shall be banished until he mends his ways. MOON (PRESSING): But you made him the imp of the gods... you taught him.his THOR: To be practiced on.the other gOdS-oe 11013 on me. MOON: The child knows no other life than.mdschief making.. playing tricks.. THOR: .All your pleading will come to nothing, Moon. Vadi goes to Nethermost MOuntain after this walk of night. NOON (THREATENING TONE): You are driv- ing me too far, Thor. {{‘QLWRONTQ . M“ ., THOR (RESTLESS ANGER): Huh! 4“-~~an—-:.-- IDON: If only I could gather the courage to speak to Odin of your in- justices to me and to my son. erI \Alm: Effect THOR: Odin would not listen. - n 1;; B§1£399_.-W.. ADI~W-<..__..A.E.....-.~—- - a» u~»-»\ H~cfln~~ - .- .X. 1: cm rd Thom b so ‘m—o~ 0‘5 tum.- EFFECT NO. 1 gesture with up arm. Moon sinks on knees C. Thor S_t:.a_:€1.d;§.[9ver her? ' " Wad: :L enters DR ...—u.. .— - ...—fie... 'o. mt - a? . m“ -:«‘x.-‘ ~ y-‘A‘qu n5.,..~u.~ .... up 0. sit. .-.Awhihamnenlpnho- TIDOI'L .(DERISI‘IE ) : "-W..~.:-.p.Rl.. .§.it......_chair- . .... I'TQ_9E1...§RT3€Z}I§ .DL: ~ Amslsutst relished -. __ §it chair L, draw Vadi up to .. _- 1_---is-1~.— PIR- -' kn ee . _nightphascome. I 14 THOR (ANGRY WITH'VADI'S INATTENTION): Send the Noon to me. The time for (EXITS) VADI IS ALONE... _Rsls THE. PICTURE OF DRJdOTIOII. ITRMIRL‘M‘EERBN?TWA BOY? ml'D «.V‘I'."".- .9-4: m.‘ ... a- '- u I .- BE ON Thd fER-C-E OF TEXRS._ IIOOII ENTERS, 8.9332303 . NI am. TTO N: Vadi, my dear one. ‘VADI,:. _.(RUlISTO HER) Oh, mother... liOON: You’re sad... you're sorry... but always too late. VADI (DONNOAST): Nethermost Mountain. all alone.. I can't go to I' d die there LEON: There, there, my little one. Perhaps we can outwit Thor... I've thought of a plan... VADI (EIIOITED) How.. oh, mother tell me hOWoo MOON: I've been thinking of this for a long time... and noW'I'm.sure it's the right thing to do... VADI (GIGGLING AND HAPPY AGAIN): To outwit Thor: MOON: Not only to outwit Thor, Vadi... but also to send you to earth... to your own people.. VADI (SURPRISED): To earth: But... mother... I've never been there... I... MOON: Listen to me carefully, Vadi. There's a little girl called Astara who needs you. I'll send you to her. You'll be the delight of her heart. Take care of her... make her happy... VADI: Astara... that's a pretty name” QRiSBRSMX.CRI gii§9awgagmt°.him‘-wh,wqum_,,,m -JKI-IDI; q hiding sadness -fla.l -_tun1t0 him. ...-...., x» I w: Effect Inniyi no nit-marl“ 1: m ,5 551M s vagw ”my Cfi’l'f“ . 15 MOON: She needs you, Vadi... You can make her life all it should be... Take her a little bit of Valhalla.. VADI ._(‘I‘JITH GREAT ETCCITEZI'ENT ): Me on earth! Such fun! HOW'long am I to stay, mother? MOON: Forever, Vadi. You must never, never, never return to Valhalla. VADI: But that means leaving you... never seeing you again.. MOON: It's better that way. YOu don't belong here.. You belong to earth... and to Astara. VADI: But if that's true, then you don't belong here either, mother. Come with me...'we'll go to earth together. MOON: No, Vadi... I'm.needed here... I can't leave.. but you can... and you ““1110 e VADI: I can't imagine living without you c .I,NDON: It will seem strange for a while. But you'll be a good brother to Astara, and a good son.to her father. VADI: And her mother? MOON (RIHLRJERRR): Don't question, Vadi... .9 ...-...‘o. -n— lu'just do as I Say.. VADI: Thor will be very angry.. MOON: He's been so before.. VADI: I can't leave you to face his wrath alone. He'll throw'his thunder hammer all over Valhalla. NEON: I'll take care of that. Now, Vadi, I'll summon.you when the time comes. Please don't wander away.. gesture off R X DRfllooking in direction of -path-_.12askiiomlfioon: Tallow him: .am on shoulder-._..o.=c_...__ Tum t0 her. EFFECT NO. 2 v— 'v‘IAHI'I C U'RT AI N .X UR_diagonal, exithR._ H“ X DC_above_table:ithen sit W,VT chair C CURTAIN CUE N01} LIGHT NO. 2 l6 VADI: HOW'dO I get to earth, mother? ,TDONz _There‘s a secret path.. it be- gins at the base of Odin's mountain and ends at the foot of a big elm tree near Astara's house. I'll light your way down that path when Thor is walking elsewhere in the sky. ~ VADI: It's so exciting, mother.. AMOON: Exciting and wonderful for you. my moonbeams will show you the way. Don't be frightened... the distance to earth is nothing.. I.HVADI: Nothing... and everything, mother... I'll miss you.. MOON: And I you. But I'll be watching over you from.here.. (TRORFTRDNDERS) I must go, my dear one. Remember, go to the base of Odin's mountain when I summon you... not before. And when you get to earth, Vadi, you are to stay there. You must never return.to Valhalla. VADI: I'll do all you say, mother... THERE Then farewell, my son... farewell... Rememb 8:: ..no.t_.until- L..Rall...(531£ITS ) . VAOI IS ALONE AND STARING AFTER HIS ‘10“ ER. ” HE LOOKS AROUND THE ROON l SaYI”G GOODBT1 TO.ALL HE KNOWS. TH HEWBIIQSINSMTO,_OIEGLE.. lliAR ERAND HARDER. . . VADI (EXCITED): We'll outwit Thorl Again! And I'm going to eartht I'm going to earth: ONCE ACAIN _‘VADI IS ASTER OF THE SITUA- TION... AI-7D H43 BUBHLE WITH DELIGHT.... A3 TH” CURTAIN FALLS. 17 ACT I SCENE II SCENE: THIS SCENE TAKES PLACE ON EARTH, IN A HUHBLS COTTA E NEAR THE EDGE OF A FOREST. THE LIGHTS CONE UP ON A TARA STANDIN ALONE IN THE DCORWAY OF THE KITCHEN. NIGHT IS SL WILY COMING ON . SHE SI GHS DEEPLY AND SNAKES HER HEAD SADLY. FATHER E‘ITJ‘S’IOTL I‘ITTBRIOR OF THE HOUSE. 35.1300.” . ATRRR (KINDLY): Such a big sigh for such a little girll Turn to him. MI_WIIII H II I ST RI: Oh, father... I didn't hear I 'j’ 7 H ‘ you come in.. FATLER: But why the big sigh, Astara? Does night time frighten you? X to“9§;abozem§able._Iwm . _ ASTARA: No, father.. it’s not that. 7 ' I'm not frightened.. but I feel so alone a o e Gesture toward_interior. ,, FATHER (REA SURING): You shouldn't. I'm.here... your aunt is here... ASTARA: I know... but still... maybe it's the darkness that makes me lonely. Why does night have to be so very dark? X to goggwang Ioohout. .. FATHER: Thor “fishes it to be that way. '“' He is the mighty master of night and day, you know... ASTARA: Yes... but what of the travel- ers who walk through the country without any light to guide them? And the animals of the forest? Perhaps X_OWI_II IIII_NI “I -..IrthQY're afraid... but they can't do any- 7 A'\ 7 mum" 7 thing about it... we have candles to brighten the darkness... to chase away the shadows... They have nothing. X to CH C“. ,._ MummlnanAIWMnm ”FATHER: You are forgetting the moon, my little one. .729 «Q, .uE..-....... ., , ...... maul—A "synernwtfl m‘."_“ G 7 .Sit CH up m-sw.i~.‘mrr ,. \_,._r . 12$ o..a¥af9£.om:_ -100?- out “13:..n__d.9Wo 99.120 him kneel high (0) ‘O—V‘ ‘va‘ihu-r‘ .. . 18 ASTARA (WITH REAL.APPRECIATION): Oh, no, I'm not... I could never forget the mb0n5““3hefs beautiful... but she's not always in the sky... and her soft beams don‘t light the fOI'GStooo FATHHZ: She? Her? the moon is a she? And how do you know ASTARA: think she must be.. I... Choc I j'llSt FATHER (LAUGHING KINDLY) : are, my little one... The must be a she. And right you beautiful moon ASTARA: If she could only light the night every night... from its beginning to its end... FATHER: Astara, my dear, you must realize that Thor has made the night a time for sleeping... not for traveling, or playing... or even working. That’s why it is so dark. ASTARA: But wouldn't it be nice if the " animals could have candles like ours... Pa: 11.91;. 9a-...b6ade. _A £.is_.e_.quic1:lz«' .sotoward €100“ - 35 .3539? [b.1313 “an-...HH — -» 'tA,‘ .a- >7> a, ........... .Essk ”Wher- 1.11 sky candles... and then the travelers would have something to light then on their way... FATHER (WITH GREAT AFFECTION): Always thinking of someone else... have you no thoughts of yourself? ASTARA: Only one, father.. FATHER: And that one is? ASTARA: Tell me about my mother... I do so want to know... _FATHER: It's not a pretty story, Astara.. ‘gASTARA: You always say that, father... and you never go any farther.. V“THER: It's a hard story to tell... and a sad one to recall. 19 X to C -,-..\..I.,..-.l,_.._.-....-. ASTAPA: It all must have happened when I was very young. I've tried so hard to remember... but I can't. 'FATFTER: It's best that you don't. Tum " X...’E?.9.‘f'?§£1... £1,933..- Thor wants it that way. aha-em“ -WF— _M.guwm.fl\‘ a ASTARA (SURPRISED): Thor? The god of night and day? FATHER (HEAVILY): Yes.. Thor.. ASTAJ’LA: Tell me, please, father... I do so want to know.. -.....m... 3.133.,A1‘JA. HAS. EITTLSFED TO 0V E1114. ’2 THE _ LAST FE’.“.’ LIKES . SHE CARRIES KICEI'IE, 313R _EEEHEABAK 3333-. ON, HER ‘a‘fliIST . . an.“ t ered f rom. interior... from Arch .. _ y _ ATTIxIT: Tell her Homer. The child has a ' right to known. Perhaps when she hears how this family has angered Thor, she won't be so hard to handle. fit.§p...i?.oward-.h er.....-“a.--“-....I.--.,.,,.,.,...._..-...FATHER_(SEIMIP):fi Anna: How many times have I asked you not to mention that before Astara. Why do you take pleasure in hurting the child? Comewintomroom _X “to cupboard, .y ATTNT: Hmphl Hurting her! You're too _look__for dust--.-.-,..... easy with her. She needs to be taught about life... about her life especially. Eggtgufather's¥_R.‘_HMMW ASTARA: What about my life, father? Are we really in Thor's disfavor? AUNT (NASTILY): I should say you are: And it's all your mother's fault. No respect for superiors... lazy... good- for—nothing. You take right after her. L339,herg...“,_,.,,-,_W,_..., FATIER: Anna! You have said enough. To speak that way of your own sister. 13-3“Sitifl§££§ich.931...13.9 Astpara. AUNT: Yes, my own sister... mother of your darling Astara. (TO ASTARA) Go gather the firewood. And be quick about it. Turn to ,him then back. ”WW .. --- -..-...- flil--a.m...a“{ay_-. . - Exits___door Ms 351,39- ...QLI ...Qa- sit 5 ° flamers? Blstfpm- . ._Eise and__X toward C. -_X D to,.._9h9$ts.m fl-%‘W"lvfl_’! » 20 FATHER If we need more wood, I'll gather it, Anna. There is no need to send Astara. . _AUNT: I intend to have a few words with you, Homer. Now, you... get the wood... and don't take all night. ASTARA: Certainly, Aunt Anna. Shall I take Keetie for his airing? (SHE PIIACHEB FOR“ KIEIIE. _ATH-TT PULLS BIRD Ala?) ' AUNT: ,. No! You know Keetie doesn't like you. Animals are often smarter than men, you know... ' _. AS'V' ARA OWN”? BY AT’T'S SHAREIS S)- .1 Yes, m'am... (If. ITS) ”FATHER: Oh, Anm... when will you let that child alone? You seem to be always trying to hurt her, or... AUNT (RIGHTEOUS) I am merely doing as any aunt of a motherless child would do. You do nothing to discipline her.. You spoil her completely. __FATITER: You're right, I suppose. AUNT: Of course I'm right. You in- dulge her dreaming, her laziness.. FATHER: Dreaming? Laziness? I wonder. She is so kind, Anna. Only tonight she was sad for the poor creatures, man and beast who have no candles to light the night. She wondered why Thor doesn't have candles in the sky to light the darkness. AU‘ITT: That's exactly what I mean... ‘lwaSting time like that.. and look! The dishes haven't been put away! FATHER: She's only a child, Anna.. AUlIT: Yes... and cursed by the gods! 21 FATHER: That's not true! AUNT: Yes it is. Admit it, Homer. Admit that Thor killed Sonja. _Lutgflhpgw‘gHM , FATHER: Why do you take such delight in reminding me? AUNT: Because you must keep it always in your mind. And you must tell your darling Astara. FATHER: Why? Why should she'know of the disappearance of her mother and little brother? EEEEJEELAEETIP9.... “up mohair AUNT: Disappearance! Indeed: We know that Thor killed then right here... and struck Astara down for her insolence. X to Ch C sink into ‘Ch.m____‘_ g, ,FATHER:WW6 don't know that! All we mm M ._._-_ lmow is that they disappeared and that I found Astara lying on the floor un- conscious. Must you be so harsh? AUNT: Only truthful, Homer... as you must be. FATHER: Perhaps.... if the opportunity presents itself.. AUNT: Tonight, Homer. You are to tell Astara that because of the folly of her mother she is under the curse of Thor. Tell her how Thor killed her mother and brother and dropped their bodies into the sea. FATHER: I can't believe they're dead... IX___up,___to_pfilrat§_gvmp”lookingwout. _‘ ..,,Imf,96.lwth6m near me sometimes... I even hear Sonja's voice when the night is very dark and very still... and only the moon light serves to brighten the night.. LEQMQWMWWWWWk S _ _ AUNT: Haht Such nonsense. You are as witless as your daughter.... And now, Homer, as we've settled this matter, you may take care of the barn for the night. 'Exit Door . .X ._’.°.°._ Ch98t.'81t _. Rise and walk,__to "cupboard. t1,_u:n,,with_back to door. XC ”Back to her. N 22332 t9 so out-,wa- £259,12255t3m2. - - §PQP§MW 22 FATHER (SIGHS): Is it time for that? How quickly darkness has come. Thor must have put on his Cloak of Deer) ___Darkness wifii unusual haste. (EKITS) IHELAUIET..IS.MONE,III THE KITCLUIN. SHE HZCILESJQEEUEL.ol.£l“D.._.TAIKS TO HI‘I- - ._ NET 3,, There. . There, my widdle sweetums . . Is 00 tired? Hungry? My poor baby... no sausage to eat.. not for nearly a month... and melon seeds! Why, I've not had money for them in such a long time. Never mind, my little Keetie... You will soon have everything... as soon as I rid _ this house of ‘Astara. Homer will marry me. Then I shall be mistress of all he owns. Only wait a little longer.. I'll make that Astara so miserable she'll be glad to leave.. glad to escape my nagging... Patience, my darling Keetie.. Patience.. AS’l’MlA ENTERS WITH THE moo. SHE SETS IT 1 E113, Eli E. 120 Giuiilfil. LINE-17‘s bf? A73; .111 . AS'I‘AI’LA: Where is father, Aunt Anna? AUI-TI‘: Settling the barn for the night. . ASIAPA: I'll go help him.. he seemed tired... . AUNT: You help him: (LAUGHS SCOHIT- FULLY) A big help you'd be. Puny thing you are.. ASTARA: I guess you're right. Oh, if only I were a boy... or if I just had a brother. AUNT: A brother! And what for? Only more burden for me to bear. ASTARA: Oh, no, Aunt Anne... He'd be a big help to father.. and to you.. AUNT: Enough of this foolishness. You've wasted the whole day with your stupid dreams and wishes... Now it's time to work. Gesture_ to cupboard, walk around center then to chest. From chest. , . Svreep up to tablem - arrange c1oth and flowers - prodding Astara, back to her. Wheel to face Astara. M..- e—uo-ah-s-nu kWh-nun Mull—tr" an,,ya \thflyex'i't - very scflornful____ $1M é:§iw give. AJ'Wco- ”...—“.-.: . , AWFT 3-- “No L 23 ASTARA: To work? But I thought.. ATTITT: Well don't think. Just work. You have yet to put those dishes away... and this floor needs sweeping. It's that Marta and Neil.. Why must you have such dirty friends? Don't bring them in here again. I don't know how I put up with you! ASTARA: I'm sorry, Aunt Anna. I didn't mean to anger you... it's growing awfully dark.. may I take a candle from your room? auugwgguDIGNANT). A candle: I should say not. You know I need all of them. I need everyone we have. I have to arrange my hair for the night, and you know I need candles for that. Besides, 11w little Keetie is afraid of the dark... Aren't oo sweetums.. ASTARA: Of course, Aunt 11mm... but if I could have just one.. ”_WPerhaps my dear Astara, you could use one of your candles from the sky. Never mind worrying about the poor creatures alone in the forest at night.. Worry about yourself" AStamcoc the girl who carries Thor's curse.. ASIARA: That's not true... it can't be.. -....ATMT’ And why not? ASIARA: Because the moon talks to me.. She even calls me her little one... and she wouldn't do that if I were cursed by the gOdSooo AUNT: Hmphx The moon talks to you... I've always said you weren't quite right in the head... and now I lmow it. It's best that you get right at your work... Perhaps your talking moon will help you. __$BXITS LAUGHING SCORNFULLY) Bewleoajzh ea th her. _(. C) Sweeps C. “Aeta ‘at'"ouptoora“fout's broom] at cupboard side. Gsasjaauslstfomi..-“, Tamika}. await .... Arms outstretched ,__. 25.5.9.9 is“-.. - To Ch C Sit. Sit on father's lap. ..--“‘-‘ha-‘“ a a... n.- w. dupe-0* . an- “A" garmio .1? ed. father on... .‘ I. . StaL§_L: or.»~M ‘M, xm.,,.,: _,\~-..4,.. thw- . oaw’ r: 24 ASTARA _SIOHS 1::er SEGITS TO SHEEP THE KITCHETI. . Trm MOON c ms UP SLOTJ'LY” . _FILLINQ THE ROOM MTH SOFTLIGHT. ASTARA STOPS TO WATCH Ij‘OR A r-IormuT, mugsssacxmgp ”won: ._ ____ FATHER 321T BPS . .. FATHER: What's this? “~y little Astar‘a working when even Thor has donned his Cloak of Deep Darkness and begun his walk of night? You knoW'that means bed time, my dear. ASTARA: Yes, father... but I must finish this first. Come sit with me for a little while. FATHER: I an't Sit... but I Will help. (TAKES BRO H. ASTARA GOES TO PUT DI 333 AWAY.) You should be tucked in by the time the moon is high. STARA: The moon. She's the most m ~beautiful of all, father. See her... ”_oh, father.. FATHER: What is it, my dear? Are you so very sad? . ASTARA: Not sad, father.. Just wishing and dreamin,.. “FATHER: Dreaming? Wishing? For what? ASTARA: For a brother. I do so want a brother... someone to talk to and play with... someone to help you so that you won't have to work so hard... I wish it every night... and sometimes.. sometimes, father.. I think the moon answers me. FATHER: A pretty thought, my pretty one. But it's not a true thought. The moon doesn't speak. She's merely the slave of Thor. ASTARA: I anWoco but Stilloo FATHER: You dream it Astara. But your dreams may bring you a happiness the 'world can not. And now it's time for bed. (PICKS HER DPAHDCARRIES HSR To BED) Pray to Valhalla. WARN: Light LIGHT NO. 3 _M_oon on Stage DRWW than soft floating gestures. 26 FATHER (CONTINUED): Maybe the gods are listening and will grant your wish. Good night, my little Astara. ASTARA: Good night, father. FATHER PATS HER HANPfiTD KISSES HER cm- -- T amwsswm mm INTERIOR. TARA CALLS AFTER mg. NARA: Odin bless you, fathereeeoeee ami a good night's rest. ASTARA THEN SLIPS OFF HER SHOES AND SHAKE""S"0UT' ' HE 'R HAIR. THE Anon RISES S‘fifi‘L—Y _BEH" IND" HER, AND SHE IS BATHED IN W U T . RE‘TU‘R'N'S'T'O 'T‘R‘R’WINDOW, EU'RIING ' “HER“IESS‘WTW “ISOVELY W mi. . ‘- _._— MOON: Good evening, my little one. ASTARA: Oh, Moon Mother.. I wondered if you'd see me here. MOON: I see you always. I watch you from up here. Your unselfish ways, your kindness, your sweetness... I see them and know them all... ASTARA: Somehow I knew that.. I can feel you with me.. guarding me.. MDON: And reading your thoughts, my little one. ASTARA: 1hr thoughts? MDON: Your thoughts and your dreams and your wishes... the wish you voiced for the first time this evening. I have seen it grow within you. ASTARA: Oh, Moon Mother, I do... I do want a brother more than anything. Father said that if I prayed mough perhaps the gods would hear ms.... and you have... gesture. to. IR. _ A Lock. off. RM... Fades off - LIGHT NO. 4 'd “‘44!- V'adi X C looking around Double take on Astara $1: CH c“ Ri- se: X__t0._him‘ -... Run, tomarchwo..100k .111 I. I .. _. "my-4‘». --~.. ya»...- rg. .. _ 27 TIiOON: Look, my little one... over there... what do you see? ._ ASTARA: A boy.. oh, Moon Mother... He's coming here. . . MOON: Take care of him, my little one... Take care of him. ASTARA ‘FI'ATCHES AS VADI COT‘ES THROUGH THE DOOR. HE IS UI-ISURE OF HIIBEIF IN THIS STRANGE PLACE. VADI: Do you live here? ASTARA: Yes, I'm... VADI: Then you must be Astara. ASTARA: Oh! I am! Only who are you? Where did you come from? How did you know my name? VADI: Galloping gods! You fire ques- tions fast. My name is Vadi... and I'm the imp of the gods... and my mother, the moon, sent me here. ASTARA: The moon is your mother! VADI(NODS); The prettiest and the nicest person in all Valhalla. ASTARA: I knew she would be. I've always thought so. VADI: She's Thor's handmaid... and I'm his messenger. He's the most important god next to Odin, you known ASTARA: Oh, goodness! And you came down to earth to visit me. VADI: And to mke you happy. The happiest mortal on earth... Come... let's .do something. ASTARA: What? What would you like to do? Xufismhsafl "up“ A-.-“ _n.-..- , .a .. , q.-A,_r ..~., ,. ‘ -EpintiJAAWl_iamwnlu.“II, _thto_9hest:examine it“ X_to_chest K'Iunw"‘n\h-ri.-L 47.... 7 «randy». .~>~.mn.,../.I .IJ‘. Elam, .suRboard ,. Blindoeyes §EE£E_EEEaPémtab19_-IStOP-_ X to her, then to door -_1ook _9ut“ Xfio her _ .thowardogdoLIIII_MIIMM- Turn to door._. . ASTARA: ‘ASTARA: _VADI: 28 VADI: I don't know3.. Something you'd like to do... HoW'about hide and seek? You like that don't you. (SHE NODS) _ There are lots of hiding places in here.. There are the cupboards... or under the bed. . VADI: that's a big one. Or that chest... Galloping gods, It must hold a lot! It belongs to my aunt. VADI: It'd make a fine place to hide S omething e o o ASTARA: Something? VADI: I mean us, of course... Well, let's go... You hide first and I'll count. ASTARA: I'm afraid we'll make too much noise, Vadi. Father and aunt Anna are sleeping... and... Thor's VADI: Then let's go outside. . cloak certainly makes the world dark... even moon mother's light doesn't help very much. ASTARA: What's Thor like? . Very big... and very strong... and very proud of his power over you mortals. ASTARA: day. 0 You mean governing night and VADI (NODS): Especially night. Odin gave him his Cloak of Deep Darkness, and Thor treasures it above all else. WE_ASTARA: Goodness! It must be a very wonderful Cloak. It hides every bit of light. A.VADI (LONGING): Except for the moon. ,zmtohgwto.Astara.h 4X to CH C -..,_-rw.. Sha1:e it e X..’Ec.>....9‘fitl-..up. ,8 131...“... . 29 ASTARA: And she isn't always out. I guess that's when she's resting. VADI (II-IDIGNAI‘JT): Resting! Thor doesn't permit that. He never lets mother rest. ASTARA: Doesn't she get awfully tired? VADI (NODS): She certainly does. Sometimes she even wishes that night wouldn't come at all. ASTARA: But where is she when she doesn't Show in the sky? VADI: That's when Thor's angry with her. He stuffs her in a cloud. ASTARA: How awful! Does Thor really have that fierce a temper? VADI: Galloping gods! He certainly does. He's almost always mad at someone. In fact, my mother told me that he stole us from earth when I was just a baby. ASTARA: Stolen from earth! Then the moon is mortal! VADI (NODS): Me too. She says Thor was angry with her because she pulled the window shade to keep his light out. ASTARA: Goodness! His temper must be terrible. VADI: Sometimes he makes the whole sky _ shake with his roar. ASTARA: That's thunder.. VADI: But what's worse is when Odin is angry... He swings his scepter.... SVVOOSh o e o ASTARA: And lightening flashes. Oh, Vadi, have you seen all these things happen? Sashsztto-cupb0ardo Jump up X to him. --JH—-‘~a‘.—o _fitroll_towurdmchest_twv looking_around - sit X to her Turtiaway_ Wall: pp toward platform — tuan -0 ‘I- -.\oo_--.- , .u... 30 . VADI (ERAGGING): or course.. ASTARA: And have you seen Thor's Cloak of Deep Darkness? VADI: I've more than just seen it. I've gone to get it for him. He keeps it in a jewelled box on the top of the highest mountain in Valhalla. ASTARA: Oooh! You really are an important messenger! VADI: You're right! Vadi, the imp of the gods at your service! (EB FAKSS A SWEE - ING Row) ‘_ASTARA (LAUGHING WITH DELIGHT): You're wonderful.. hOW'I wish.. VADI: What do you wish, Astara? ASTARA: Two things... First I wish that you could stay with me always.. VADI.(CASTAL): ”aybe I will... I like it here on earth.. ‘I. -A-h-vnvD-od ‘th. ...u - .---e - ASTAP : Oh, Vadi, if you only would... I want a brother so badly.. I'd be just like Christine and Harta. VADI: Then it's settled. I'll stay. ASTARA: But what will the gods say? VADI: Never mind them... I'll take care _‘of it. But what's your other wish? ~_ASTARA: I... I... oh, I'd better not say it. e VADI: Go ahead... I may be able to make that one come true too. . ASTARA: 'Well.. oh, Vadi... I wish the night weren't so very dark.. Not that I don't love the moon... but her light doesn't reach everywhere... see how dark the forest is.. p atform - sit on [*H Soto _bed - sit R Jump up. Rowaimm Platform hm. toward_door. Out door Afiter_him to door - calling Then} to bed (foot) L001iing up to spot where, 111801114) ne.ared__,th en towa rd Riddience as she lies down - LIG’IT NC . 5 ...-...v ...,-,_ - a ~ 31 VADI: You mean you like daylight? ASTARA: Of course... all mortals do. VADI: And you'd rather have daytime than nightime? Ap-ARA (":DS): It's much nicer... in the day everything is so bright and cheerful... the sky is so blue and the forest so green... the whole world sings with happiness... VADI: And when Thor puts on his Cloak gf Deep Darkness? Am ARA: The world sleeps.. as if every- thing had been smothered.. It's a lonely time for every earthly creature... even mortals. . VADI:_ Rmmmm... that's interesting. I know! otara'. I've got the best idea! ASTARA: What? Vadi, tell me.. VADI:. mat a joke on Thor! I have to 50 IlOW'oe ASTARA: Where? Where are you going? Don't go.. Please, Vadi... VADI: Sleep well, Astara... I'll be baCIC—o o 0 ASTARA: Vadi! I thought you were going to stay! Vadi! VADI RUNS CTTICKLY C-T CIGGLII‘I J’I 'PIS TLY. -iSiAi-i‘fi ui RUNS TO TITE DOC-in... BUT IS I) GOIY5.. L3 TlfiiLS '30 T I33 ‘ -CC‘T A: 3 Cl :SFS A PFQ’ 3R. . ASTARA: Oh, T'Toon Biothern send him back to me... Please.. .T”E_ LTC”TS GC CRT-AS ASTARA SIYYS ON HER A my TV 7:1 '1 3331-“ .2441» 5) T1. T ......JR filling... ACT II SCE"E I LIGHT HQ; 6_, SCSHJ: THE CURTAIYS OPEN TO REVESAL THE TOP OF THE HIGHEST "CURTAIPI I" AoGARD. CEETTDR, RAIS 3D IS A LARGE JE'J‘I'ELIED BOX CORTAIRING THOR'S CLOAK 1 DE SP DARKNESS VIDI 18 BL D OVER DRR‘ID.D IR Ive 0138 .33 THIS :3C‘TE RDJIIS. 1R0 c1? L ODIN §AYS "COT; THOR" THEN SITJR , FOLLOJED BY GUARD, 13Y_FHCA. VADI POPS Irwc IRE CUES . QDIR PQIRIS WITH HIS SCERTRR AT 32;: _X_to DR_guardifolloR$ stops COIN: This is the chest which contains _atugggtmgfflramp the Cloak of Deep Darkness? C _ __.A. I,“ THOR: That is correct, oh great god Odin. ODIN (GOES UP RA"? TO CHEST ARD TAPS IT): _._--. Mme-mm“ - -~v-——~_- «- -— —~- Hmmmm. Handsome box, Thor. THOR: I had it made especially for the cloak. No ordinary jewels are grand enough to bedeck the box containing your great gift to me, oh god of gods. (BO ‘.3) ODIN: The Cloak is in here noww. (LIFT LID WITHOUT LOCK HG Ir) ha.~._.-ao-I..— THOR: Yes... it rests there throughout the time of my daytime walk. ODIN: Good (DROPS LID) This inspection X to DR on floor _‘ may seem silly to you, Thor... but I've ‘ Hmflfl 'VRVHMRW' ' found that some of the lesser gods were not doiIIg their duties as ordered. VADI LIFTS THS LID OF TRI Box AND SLIPS ogr... I: IE QIH‘ RS DO IOT SIR HI”. HIDRS BSTIHDiBQX. X t_.._<_=uPb9ard- . ~ _Brush her away. X below-‘ hfigntowflh‘up. _SIAITIstowa rd cupboard -_ Eromnwa- I'm, 42 AUNT: Hah! The moon again.. you crazy child.. ASTARA: The moon sent a little boy down here from Valhalla to play with me... and he said he'd come here to live if I wanted him.to... AUNT: To live! Hmph! Not while I'm in this house. ASTARA: Oh, but then I'd have a brother... someone to play with... someone to help father... and you.... and... AVNT: Stop this nonsense! You have ' ' better things to do than sit and make up stories. There's no reason why I should have to stand here and listen to such foolishness. ASTARA: But Aunt Anna... it wasn‘t foolish... it was wonderful... AUNT (IMPATIENT): That's enough! A boy from Valhalla, indeed! Fetch me my scented pillow from the chest... I think I‘ll go in and rest a bit... This heat is unbearable.. ASTARA SAYS NOTHING, JUST DOES AS HER AUNT SAYS. ' ATWT COIITII-IIIAS TO FEED " 1:313:13 THASAUSAGR _IIIBBLIIIG 01: IT HER- s‘am. IIIIEII ASTARA OPEIIS II: CH38T, A ._NCI‘II .iILIRs OIIT. ,LSIEIIG‘ASPS. . .I THEN SLAP>ATIT Am-II (EXASPERATED): And now what are you doing? ASTARA: I think I saW'a moth... I'd better sprinkle this chest with camphar- . AUNT: You'll do nothing of the kind. You know the smell of camphor irritates me.. ,ASTARA: But Aunt Anna, if there are moths in there, they'll... Xntgmghfist - get pillow - to aunt, then over to cupboard Turn to her_H ...—wan.“ ;—-. -- 13.110131 door. .. . -, flatouag‘ilnm _ e, A. , - From chair. Arm around Astara walking C .BafikMQYe£_and take Keetieur.u,. Sit Ch 0' AStEKEfifigifio“_._“... imaged - 43 AUNT: There are no moths in there... It's my chest, and I've never been bothered by any moths. So just bring me my pillow.... and stop arguing! ASTARA: Yes, m‘am. (gnaw) 1'11 fix father's bread and milk. AUNT (FEEDING KEETIE SAUSAGE): And the same for you. ASTARA: There won't be enough for both of us. I'm.afraid Keetie must have eaten more than.you thought he did. AUNT (SIGH OF EXASPERATION): Must you contradict all I say? Fix the bread crumbs and be quiet. It's time for Keetie's nap. FAT‘LR Alums FROM OUTSIDE. sms AXE NEAR DOOR. :rm saunas AS HE GREJSTS THEM BQEEA._£UJTE_,“1.3170331Ell-{AS SEI E E1 TS THE MST 0F TEE SA?1§A§FL:WP_EEQIEES..Kim-“IE- ,_ AWN FATHER: Tmmmmll smell lunch time. in ASTARA: Father! T: Homer, come here and hold Keetie while I eat my lunch. FATHER: Yes, Anna. And how is my Amulittle.Astara today? ASTARA: 0h, fine, father. And I had the most wonderful dream! AUNT ( IRRITATED): Homer! FATHER.(TAK£S KEETIE): Bring our lunches, ‘_ Astara... and then you can tell me about your dream. AUNT: Pure nonsense! And you encourage it. Astara X to father. Goes to_oupboard. v .53.”? Swin ”Ch ,_upo. - , X to table. 1.54 O “"'I‘"‘."'-"!‘Kr.‘.»:' ‘--- L w .w“‘.». A . -. Pat her~hand_on table..- Bbesiaflnit39,130..-.arch . . 44 FATHER: Anna, please! I'm.hungry... let me eat my lunch in peace. Now, A come here, my child.. and tell me your wonderful dream. I want to hear it all... but first... where is your bread and milk? ASTARJXS I... Oh... I ... I've already eaten.. FATHER (REALIZING): Then share mine. It's too much for me... Anna, a spoon, please. ASE? ANNA L00KS_ATAZTD AT THIS ORDER, www-3UT_cs s SPOON. _FATWSR Isrcxss'szk ANGER. ASTARA CAE'T HELP BUT SMILE. ASTARA: 'Well, father... I prayed as you said I should... and the moon sent a little boy down to earth to play with me. FATHER: Many wonderful things happen through prayer, my little one. What did you and this stranger from Valhalla do? ASTARA: 'We talked... his name is Vadi... and he told me all about Valhalla... and Thor... and the moon... _AUNT: She has delusions, Homer..... lilThat child is suffering. (DBeIVBRS THE spoon) ASTARA: That's not true! Why do you always say I'm.crazy? AUNT: Hmph! Now she's going to be impudent. FATHER: There, there, Astara. It's just _”_HM that your aunt doesn't understand the 'world of dreams... AUYT: Thank the gods for that! And now, Homer, suppose you rehang the mirror in my room. I can't keep my hair well arranged when I'm.forced to fix it before a crooked mirror. Elsitarohon rap.r