it is the duty of the electricians to see that the table-lamp is in order.
On principle, the theatrical tailor underestimates the importance of the stage-carpenter’s activities, a contempt which is reciprocated by this gentleman. The property-man is always busily in the way of the scenic-designer, while both in their turn disturb the electrician as much as possible while he is working with his cables, reflectors, and other apparatus, thus embittering his whole existence. The upholsterer, with his carpets and ladders, increases the confusion still more, and is generally abused by all and sundry. When one adds that all this technical confusion takes place amid the greatest haste, with usually nothing quite ready, with the producer urging on the stage-manager, and the stage-manager urging every one else on—it is already noon, and the rehearsal has not yet begun, some idea of the exciting and catastrophic atmosphere in which a dress rehearsal takes place may be gathered.
Good: the producer is now calm and
70
