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SERVICE LIBRARY
BOY SCOUTS OF America
I N the pamphlet literature of the Boy SCOUTS Of AMERICA we offer to Scout leaders, boys' workers, lovers of the great outdoors and all Others interested in the various subjects, a library of unsurpassed helpfulness, technical excellence and wide range of interest.
In the preparation of these pamphlets we have had the cooperation of leading authorities in various vocational and other activities who have placed their time and knowledge at the disposal of the Boy SCOUTS as a personal contribution to the boyhood of America. Much of the material, therefore, that is made available at a very moderate cost, it would be impossible to procure at any price elsewhere.
Coming from the BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, the pamphlets are especially valuable to all Scout leaders, in whatever capacity they are serving the Movement, and equally to parents of Scouts and leaders in other forms of organized work for boys.
Through this Service Library we give our readers some of the underlying reasons for the success of this great world Movement, and we make available to all concerned with the welfare of youth the best experiences of the BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA over a period of more than two decades.
Editorial Board
E. S. MARTIN, Secretary
Let's Have a Stunt Night!
Many Troops have a stunt night once a month as part of their regular program. Each Patrol is expected to put on some sort of an act which may be either amusing or instructive, or both. It sometimes happens that the Troop is called upon to entertain at an open meeting, and may desire suggestions in working out a suitable program.
It is always possible to put on some sort of a play, but it frequently happens that the Troop has neither the time to rehearse nor the facilities to plan anything pretentious. It is then that the need arises for a source of information from which Scout Leaders may draw material for short and interesting Troop and Patrol stunts. With this in mind the booklet "Troop Stunts" has been compiled.
The Use of Competitive Events
There are a great many interesting and quite exciting competitive events such as Friction Fire Lighting, Chariot Race, Knot Tying Relay, and the like. Forty such events may be found in "The Rally Book." These will always be valuable in connection with Parents' Nights and Inter-Troop gatherings.
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Demonstration Events
A Troop or Patrol may prefer to put on as a stunt some non-competitive demonstration. Such demonstration events are generally of considerable educational value showing, as they do, Scouting activities. The "Rally Book" contains thirty non-competitive demonstration events such as Use of the Neckerchief, Triangular Bandage Demonstration, Yucca Patrol Drill. Uses of the Staff, etc. It is suggested that Scouters make a careful study of these demonstration events, because they offer endless possibilities for illustrating what Scouts do, what the activities of Scouting really are.
Musical Stunts
The song book, "Songs Scouts Sing," contains a number of action songs and rounds. These are good entertainment, and the boys enjoy singing them. It is suggested that these may be incorporated into Patrol and Troop stunts to good advantage.
Opportunities for Using Stunts
A Troop that has a repertoire of good stunts, songs and cheers will always be outstanding in any Scout gathering or public meeting. Inter-Troop affairs give an opportunity for this sort of entertainment, and it is hoped that some of the stunts herein suggested may be used in that connection.
Inter-Patrol Competitions, which are a feature of the activities of many Troops, will be made more colorful and interesting through the use of Inter-Patrol stunts, put on for the purpose of instruction or entertainment.
For Parents' Nights, Patrol stunts and Troop stunts are well worth while, not, only for the purpose of entertaining the parents, but also in order to show what the Program of Scouting is like and what Scouts really learn in their meetings and on their hikes.
Scout and Dad Dinners generally call for some sort of a program after the "eats." Here again a good snappy program put on by Patrols and by the Troop will make the evening a success.
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In connection with financial campaigns, both in a community sense, and in order to raise a small fund for the Troop treasury, it frequently happens that the Troop wants to put on a stunt of some kind. It is well to "Be Prepared" and to have a good repertoire of Troop and Patrol demonstrations.
And last, but by no means least, at camp, whether a Troop or a Council camp, Scouts are always glad of entertainment. Around the camp fire or during a rainy afternoon some of the stunts in this booklet will help to entertain and amuse the campers. In this connection the Service Library booklet "Camp Fire Helps" will repay a careful reading.
DRAMATIZE THE HISTORY OF THE FLAG The Troop presents a series of flags, from the earliest one up to the present Stars and Stripes. Each flag may be painted on a large sheet of cardboard, or made of cloth according to specifications by the mothers of the Scouts. As each flag appears, a Scout recites a description of The Flag and something about its history.
As a climax, a huge silk flag may be raised as a back drop by means of pulling two cords which will bring the flag out of a box concealed back of a table or chair near the center of the platform. At this point The Star Spangled Banner should be played, and everyone, including the audience, will then give the Pledge to the Flag.
If desired, the flags of Columbus, and other explorers to this continent may be included as an introduction to the subject.
TROOP STUNTS
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ST. GEORGE AND THE DRAGON
The Director comes forward and states that this play, which is a very famous one, is to-be presented entirely by members of the audience, and that all the scenery will also be represented by volunteers. He asks two boys to come forward and represent the curtain. They stand on either side of the "stage" and raise their hands to represent the curtain going up, lowering their hands to represent the drop of the curtain. He also asks the characters to represent three trees, a large rock and mountains in the background. Especially able actors are commandeered from the audience to take the part of St. George and the Dragon, St. George being stationed off-stage on one side and the Dragon in a similar position on the other side.
ACT I
The Director says: "The play is now on. All ready for the first act.
"The curtain goes up." (The boys representing the curtain make a motion representing the curtain going down. They have been previously coached to do everything backward.)
The Director continues: "St. George enters." /St. George does so) "St. George smiles." (He does so) "St. George goes out." (He goes out)
"Curtain now goes down." (The "curtains" make the motion of the curtain going up.)
ACT II
The Director says: "Act Two will begin immediately. The curtain now rises." (Curtain makes the motion of curtain going down) "The Dragon enters." (He does so) "The Dragon roars." (He roars) "The Dragon goes out." (He goes out) "This is the end of Act Two. The curtain now falls." (Curtains make the motion of curtain going up)
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ACT III
The Director says: "Now comes the exciting part. This is Act Three. Hang on to your seats, ladies and gentlemen. Ladies are requested not to faint until the Act is over. The curtain goes up." (They lower it) "The Dragon enters." (He does so) "St. George enters." (He does so) "The Dragon smiles." (He does so) "St. George roars." (He roars) "The Dragon goes out." (He goes out) "St. George goes out." (He goes out) "The curtain falls." (They raise it).
ACT IV
The Director says: "Mow comes the difficult part. this act you will have to use your imagination, if any. It is particularly exciting because we now come to the climax, which is very hard on the actors. The curtain goes up." (They lower it) "Nobody enters." (Nobody does) "Nobody smiles." (Nobody smiles) "Nobody roars. (He is correct) "Nobody goes out." (Nobody does) "The curtain now goes down." (It goes up) "And this, ladies and gentlemen, is the end of the dramatic playlet, St. George and the Dragon, which I hope you have enjoyed as much as the Dragon. The ushers will pass up and down the aisles and collect the flowers!"
PAGEANT OF MERIT BADGES
In this demonstration each Scout is in costume, and he carries a sign with a Merit Badge painted thereon. His costume represents the Merit Badge quite definitely. This one is in the costume of Robin Hood, and he carries a long bow;
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he might have stepped out of Sherwood Forest. Undoubtedly he represents Archery. The fisherman with hip boots, rod and creel stands for Angling. The husky Scout in red undershirt, and -leather apron, carrying a sledge represents Blacksmithing; the chef In the white hat represents Cooking, and what but Firemanship can be indicated by the young man in the fireman's outfit? Safety is shown by a policeman, Athletics by a boy in a gym suit, and Photography by a Scout with a moving picture camera, who poses the group for their picture.
SCHOOL ROOM
The scholars include a girl, a "tough guy," a foreigner with an accent, a colored boy and teacher's pet. Recitations, songs and instruction constitute the act. Local jokes are worked into the recitations, together with frequent assault on the sissy boy by the tough. These finally break up the session.
The teacher is, generally a Dutch character with a little shaving-brush goatee and a red vest. A number of different characters can be worked into this sketch at the discretion of the Troop.
Some of the examination questions are as follows:
Teacher: Johnny, decline "father."
Johnny: Far, father, grandfather.
Teacher: Which is correct, 5 and 3 are 9, or 5 and 3 is 9!
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Morris: Neither. 5 and 3 is 8.
Teacher: If your father had $10 and I asked him for 55. how much would he have left?
Sandy: $10.
Teacher: No, you don't know this example.
Sandy: Hoot Mon, you don't know my father.
Teacher: Spell "Schenectady."
Bill: You spell it, teacher.
Teacher: Never mind, we'll make it "Boston."
ORATORY
Before the orator begins his speech the audience is drilled in a number of sounds. When the director raises his right hand the audience says "Ah!" When the director raises his Left hand, they say "Sh!" When he draws his hand across his body in a horizontal position the audience whistles in an incredulous manner. When he drives his fist downward they Shout "Hurray!"
The orator now makes his appearance and is called on for a humorous speech of any sort. The director stands back of the orator and at the proper times signals for the sounds in which they have been drilled. The result is very amusing. The orator may or may not be in on this.
For instance, the orator says, "Ladies and gentlemen, my speech this evening will be a very brief one."
The audience, much to his surprise, bursts forth in a shout of "Hurray!" This idea can be carried as far as de
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KRAZY KAMP
Our actors appear and set up a camp for the night. They carry with them an amazing array, of junk, including umbrellas, a feather duster, a broom, a large rat trap, a bird cage, a fire extinguisher, large pillows, etc.
With great difficulty they attempt to light a fire, without success. Finally one camper produces a large can labeled "Kerosene" which he pretends to pour on the fire. A firecracker is then lighted and the embers explode, throwing the logs in every direction, which blackens the faces (wiped on with their hands) of the campers.
A tent is erected with great difficulty. One of the campers becomes badly entangled in a sheet of mosquito netting.
At last they turn in for the night, whereupon the tent falls down and the campers become hopelessly tangled in the folds of the canvas and are unable to escape. So they go to sleep under the canvas, with their feet sticking out. (Snores, Curtain.)
A WEEK IN SING SING
For this sketch three characters are needed, the Director who explains the show, and two convicts who will be funnier if dressed in appropriate stripes. There are seven episodes, one for each day in the week.
"First Day": The two convicts enter the stage, each from the opposite side. Each man has his right hand extended, as if he were marching in lock-step with a line of
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men in frost of him. When these convicts pass each other in the center of the stage, a conversation ensues. This conversation makes up the act. The first convict says to the second, "Hello!" They pass each other, but the second convict does not answer.
"Second Day": They pass as before. This time the second convict replies, "Hello!"
"Third Day": They enter in lock step as before and the first convict says to the second, "What are you in for!"
"Fourth Day": Second convict says to first, "Murder!"
"Fifth Day": They enter as before. The first convict asks of the second, "How long is your sentence?"
"Sixth Day": The second convict replies, "A year!" "Seventh Day". The first convict says, "Lucky for you. I'm in for two years. Please mail this letter for me."
THE FLIVVER STUNT
A very good stunt can be worked out by five boys. Four of the boys with blankets thrown over their backs go down on all fours, bent up to resemble wheels. One of these boys has an old tin can with a few pebbles in it which he rattles when the engine is being cranked up. Another has a paper bag blown up, while a third has two paper bags blown up. The fifth boy with a suitable impromptu disguise represents the driver. He goes to the front of the Ford and pretends to crank up. Immediately the engine starts rattling, but stops before he gets into the imaginary driving seat.
This happens two or three times, until eventually the four wheels slowly crawl forward with the driver using the brim of a Scout hat as a steering wheel. Suddenly the boy with
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the one paper bag bursts it, in imitation of a punctured tire, and falls flat on the ground. The rattle of the engine at once stops, the driver gets out and with appropriate noises pretends to pump up the wheel until it resumes its normal size again. He again starts the engine, gets in, but has scarcely moved forward a few feet when the other boy with the two paper bags bursts one and falls flat.
Again the engine stops and the driver descends and blows it up, but not looking at what he is doing he pumps in too much air with the result that the tire rises higher than the others, when the boy bursts the second bag and falls flat, to give the impression that this time the tire is completely exploded. The driven can then apply to the audience for help in pushing the thing home!
With very little rehearsal and until someone who can take the part of the driver well, this proves a most amusing stunt
THE KING WITH A TERRIBLE TEMPER
In this little skit the Patrol Leader or some other member of the Patrol with dramatic ability stands in the front of the group and recites, "There was a king with a terrible temper." After making this statement, he quickly turns to his Patrol and they heartily shout, and bang on whatever tinwares are within reach to verify his statement. The Leader goes on to say, "This king with a terrible temper (anvil chorus) had three daughters. One of exceeding stoutness." After saying this, the herald turns to his Patrol, and one of his court lets out a deep grunt. Then turning again to his audience, he proceeds to say, "One of exceeding thinness.'' One of his Patrol whistles faintly. Following this, he announces, "And one of exceeding beauty." All sing two or three notes of some popular air such as "Ain't She or "Yes Sir, She's My Baby!"
The herald then says, "To this king with a terrible temper (anvil chorus) there came a charming young Prince (Ah!) who courted one of his daughters. Not the one of exceeding stoutness (grunt); not the one of exceeding thinness (whistle), but the one of exceeding beauty. (All sing.) Then this king with a terrible temper (anvil chorus got mad (ANVIL CHORUS).
"But the charming young Prince (Ah!) married, not the
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daughter of exceeding stoutness (grunt); not the one of exceeding thinness (whistle), but the one of exceeding beauty (all sing). And the King with the terrible temper (noise) forgave his beautiful daughter (song) and the charming young prince (Ah!) and they lived happily ever after." (All sing "Here Comes the Bride.")
MOCK MIND READING
A very amusing mock demonstration of mind reading can be given by a couple of boys, one disguised as a "professor" and the other as a "medium." The professor comes on and says that he has wonderful powers of conveying his thoughts to his medium without any secret apparatus such as looking glasses, radio, and the like. He then sets the medium in position and pretends to mesmerize him, and concludes by blindfolding one eye. The following dialogue explains how the thing works:
Professor-"Now, Zozo, how many apples have I got in mu hand? If you guess them right you can have them BOTH"
Medium ---"Two."
Professor--"What is this little thing in my hand?" (Rings a bell, or blows a whistle, etc.)
Medium--"A bell."
Professor--"Which foot am I standing on! Remember now, you have only two guesses.'' Medium--"Right foot."
Professor--"No, no, try again."
Medium--"Left foot."
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Professor--"Quite right--isn't he marvelous! Now, I have something round my finger--what is it?"
Medium--"Dirt."
Professor-"Certainly not--try again."
Medium--"A ring."
Professor--"Deucedly clever! I knew you would like him. What have I here?" (Holding up a comb) "Comb on, now, comb on."
Medium--"Let me think--a comb!"
Professor--"How old is this lady?"
Medium--"Don't she remember? Then why ask me!"
Professor-"And what is this?" (Fans medium from a distance)
Medium--"A fan."
Professor--"What color is this lemon!"
Medium--"Yellow !"
Professor-"Marvelous"
Professor (writing on the blackboard the figure 6)-"Now what is this number, Zozo?" (Hits Zozo over the head with a rolled-up newspaper five times).
Medium--"Five." (Professor hits him again) "No, six." Professor then writes the figures 4, 3, 2, i, and picks up a big mallet, at the same time rolling up his sleeves. Zozo starts to rush off but is dragged back with great difficulty. Professor (pointing to figure 4)--"What is that!" No answer at first.
Then the Professor begins to make a golf swing and calls to Zozo.
Professor--"Caddie, tell those people to look out."
Medium--"Fore 1"
Professor then Points to the figure 1, and bangs with a mallet once.
Professor- "What figure is this, Zozo?"
Medium--"Seven."
Professor--"No, no; try again."
Medium--"Seven."
Professor--"No, no, no; have another try.
Medium--"Seven."
Professor (altering the one into 7 by putting a stroke across the top--"All right, all right, have it your own way.
This can be carried on, with a little ingenuity as long as desired, and causes a lot of fun.
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COMEDY BOXING
The combatants: and their seconds are made up in misfitting costumes, the fighters wearing bathing suits, sneaks and stockings. Each round is carefully rehearsed so that practically every move is prearranged. They clinch, and when the referee interferes they combine and knock him out. They swing wildly, strike while shaking hands, and in one round one man chases the other all around the ring. As a wind-up one man says, "Oh, see the little birdie!" and while the victim looks the other administers his quietus. The seconds do their bit by pouring a pail of water over their men, and by pulling their chairs away as they are about to sit down. After or;; round the seconds sit on the chairs and the boxers fan them with towels. The referee counts the man out with, "Two, four, six, eight, ten!"
This stunt calls for a lot of rehearsing, and to be well done should not be over done.
ANOTHER MIND READING STUNT
In this act there are two characters, the Medium and the Professor. The Medium is seated on the stage and the Professor circulates among the audience. He bends over different members of the audience and pretends to ask their name; the Medium is then supposed to tell the name from the stage. The Professor "telegraphs" by his questions to the Medium what the persons' names are, and the whole thing is done in such an absurd manner that the result is very amusing.
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Some of the dialogue that may be used runs as follows:
Prof: "Ain't it awful--."
Medium: "Mabel!"
Prof: "You know me--."
Medium: "Al."
Prof: "The first of the month--."
Medium: "Bill."
Prof: "This man is sitting in a Jewish chair--."
Medium: "Morris."
Prof: "San Francisco--."
Medium: "Gal."
Prof: "This is a black eyed girl--."
Medium: "Susan."
Prof: "Oh!"
Medium: "Min."
Prof: "I think she's crazy--."
Medium: "Dottie."
Prof: "Let him do it--."
Medium: "George."
Prof: "She's all dressed up.
Medium: "Flossy."
Prof: "Very good." Medium: "Eddie."
Prof: "Everything is--."
Medium: "Jake."
The possibilities in working up a stunt: of this kind are almost endless, and may be left to the ingenuity of those who are planning the program.
AT THE RAILROAD CROSSING
Sarah, her husband, and the guard. The husband stutters when he speaks and is supposed to be partly deaf. Railroad tracks may be indicated by a short ladder or two sticks.
Sarah and her husband walk up to the tracks but do not cross.
Sarah: "Go up and ask him when the train comes through from the North."
Husband: "Huh!"
Sarah: "Ask him when the train comes through from the North."
Husband: "Oh." (Walks up to guard). Stutters "p-p-p-p-p
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please t-t-t-t tell m-m-m me when the train from the North comes through?" Guard: "At two o'clock this afternoon!"
Husband: "Huh?"
Guard: "At two o'clock this afternoon!"
Husband: "Oh." (Walks back to Sarah). "At two o'clock this afternoon."
Sarah: "Ask him when the train comes through from the South."
Husband: "Huh?"
Continuing in the same manner as above, Sarah gets the answers to when the trains come from the South, the East and the West, namely, six o'clock this evening, two o'clock at night and six o'clock tomorrow morning, respectively.
Sarah after some reflection looks at watch: "Then I believe that we may cross the tracks in perfect safety." (Proceeds to do so carefully, followed by husband.)
COMEDY BULL FIGHT
For this stunt a certain amount of preparation is necessary. You will need a bull, with two Scouts built into a cloth body for the bull, and a similar animal put together to represent a horse. The typical Spanish costumes with capes and round hats may be easily improvised. A few yards of "turkey red" cotton cloth may be used to good advantage for capes, sashes, etc., and a sword made of soft lead or rubber should be provided for the matador.
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After a triumphal entry and parade, the picadors attack the bull and get him irritated to a point where he is highly dangerous to all concerned. When he has been annoyed to a point where he paws the earth with his front feet and becomes really "onery," the horseman appears and a duel ensues between the horse and the bull in which the horse is severely punctured.
The third episode starts with a triumphal march of the matador and his assistants to the strains of "Hail, Hail, The Gang's All Here." After a terrific battle with a variety of cruel weapons, the bull is assassinated with a sword which bends out of recognition, and as a finale the bull sits down on the matador and is pronounced the victor after a count of ten.
This may be made more amusing by the use of a gong as in boxing matches, and the addition of seconds for both the matador and the bull. These seconds fan their principals with towels, and go through all the motions seen in the corners of a boxing ring.
OATH & LAW PAGEANT
To set this off properly, the Troop has made a large frame in sections. They put this together on the "stage." It is like the proscenium (overhead) arch of a theatre, and is made of beaver board or similar building wall board, It has a curtain that operates on a wire. Overhead is a large sign, "On My Honor."
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As the Scout Oath and each Law are shown in tableau or slow action, a Scout outside repeats the Oath or Law in full.
The Scout Oath: Three figures are needed for this, each representing one part of the Oath. "Duty to God and Country" is a Scout saluting the States of America; "Help other people" is a Scout applying first aid to a patient; "Physically strong" shows an athlete in the crouching start being timed by another Scout.
Trustworthy: A man drops his pocketbook. A Scout, following, notes this and returns it to him.
Loyal: A Patrol gives the "America" yell.
Helpful: A Scout is carrying bundles for a small child.
Friendly: Scout and non-Scout shaking hands.
Courteous: A Scout, speaking to a lady, has removed his hat and is bowing.
Kind: First aid to a large dog.
Obedient: A Scout saluting his leader.
Cheerful: A Scout plays a harmonica; his Patrol is gathered around; they sing a lively action song, clapping time as they sing.
Thrifty: A Scout enters a bank and makes a deposit at the window.
Brave: A gang of roughs tease a child. The Scout throws off his coat and dares them to do it again.
Clean: Camp scene. A line of Scouts appears before the camp washstand stripped to shorts and jerseys. One or two wash from hand basin.
Reverent: A Patrol is kneeling before an altar, in prayer.
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THE DAGGER
"The Dagger" is a very thrilling drama, easily rehearsed and played by five boys from a patrol. It probably looks a little queer on paper, but try it out with your boys and its humorous effects will never fail.
The setting is an artificial camp fire. Four very serious boys place themselves on one side of the fire. They are, if possible, equipped with sun helmets. (Imitation helmets may be made by wrapping some white cloth around regular Scout hats. It is best to get as much tropical effect as possible.) A fifth boy works as manager and announcer. The players must keep themselves serious during the whole performance. Everything depends on their seriousness. The play starts:
The Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen! It gives me great pleasure to present to you tonight a very serious drama with the promising title "The Dagger." Imagine yourself in the interior of darkest Africa. Four explorers have put their camp up for the night and you see them sitting around their camp fire. There is a very queer thing with this drama and that is that it starts with the last act and closes with the first. It may seem funny, but you will understand the reason when the play is ended. Ladies and Gentlemen, the curtain goes up for the last and third act. (Exit.)
ACT III
1st Explorer (He has a dagger or a big knife in his hand. He looks at it as if in very deep thought. Turns it around and looks at it from every angle. Silently he hands it to 2nd Explorer).
2nd Explorer (looks at the dagger from all sides. Asks 1st Explorer): What is it?
1st Explorer (hesitating) It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (looks at It again. Hands it to 3rd Explorer).
3rd Explorer (takes a look at it. Asks 2nd Expl.) : What is it?
2nd Explorer (Asks 1st Expl.): What is it!
1st Explorer (to 2nd Expl.): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd Expl.): It is a dagger!
3rd Explorer (hands the dagger to 4th Expl.).
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4th Explorer (looks at it. Asks 3rd Expl.): What is it?
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): What is it?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd): It is a dagger!
3rd Explorer (to 4th): It is a dagger!
(End of Third Act)
The Announcer: Third Act has now come to an end and we start immediately on the Second Act.
ACT II
(During the announcer's speech the dagger has been returned to 1st Explorer.)
1st Explorer (looks at dagger. Hands it to 2nd Explorer).
2nd Explorer (to 1st Expl.): What is it!
1st Explorer (to 2nd Expl.): It is a dagger
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used?
1st Explorer (to 2nd with a finger on his lips and very mysterious): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (hands the dagger to 3rd).
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): What is it?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd): It is a dagger!
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): Has it been used?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used!
1st Explorer (to 2nd with finger on lips): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd with finger on lips): Hysss!
3rd Explorer (hands dagger to 4th).
4th Explorer (to 3rd): What is it?
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): What is it?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd): It is a dagger!
3rd Explorer (to 4th): It is a dagger!
4th Explorer (to 3rd): Has it been used?
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3rd Explorer (to 2nd): Has it been used!
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used!
1st Explorer (to 2nd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
3rd Explorer (to 4th with finger on his lips): Hysss!
The Announcer: This was the end of the Second Act.
(End of Second Act)
The Announcer: Now we start the First Act.
ACT I
(The dagger has been returned to 1st Explorer during the announcement.)
(1st Explorer looks at the dagger. Gives it to 2nd.)
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used?
1st Explorer (to 2nd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (to 1st, frightened): There is blood on it!
1st Explorer (to 2nd, moving his hand across the neck as if cutting the throat, imitating the sound you hear when canvas is torn in pieces): Grriiittzzz!
2nd Explorer hands the dagger to 3rd.)
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): What is it?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd): It is a dagger!
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): Has it been used?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used?
1st Explorer (to 2nd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
3rd Explorer (to 2nd, frightened): There is blood on it!
2nd Explorer (to 1st, frightened): There is blood on it!
1st Explorer (to 2nd, with throat cutting movement): Griiittzzz!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd, with throat cutting movement): Griiittzzz!
3rd Explorer (hands the dagger to 4th).
4th Explorer (to 3rd): What is it!
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): What is it?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): What is it?
1st Explorer (to 2nd): It is a dagger!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd): It is a dagger!
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3rd Explorer (to 4th): It is a dagger!
4th Explorer (to 3rd): Has it been used?
3rd Explorer (to 2nd): Has it been used?
2nd Explorer (to 1st): Has it been used?
1st Explorer (to 2nd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
2nd Explorer (to 3rd with finger on his lips): Hysss!
3rd Explorer (to 4th with finger on his lips): Hysss!
4th Explorer to 3rd, frightened): There is blood on it!
3rd Explorer (to 2nd, frightened): There is blood on it!
2nd Explorer (to 1st, frightened): There is blood on it!
1st Explorer (to 2nd, with throat cutting movement): Grriiittzzz ! (Falls backward, dead.)
2nd Explorer (to 3rd, with throat cutting movement): Grriiittzzz ! (Falls backward, dead.)
3rd Explorer (to 4th, with throat cutting movement): Grriiittzzz ! (Falls backward, dead.)
4th Explorer (with throat cutting movement): Grriittzzz! (Falls backward, dead.)
(The last four words and movements have to follow very fast after each other.)
(End of First Act)
The Announcer: And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, you see the reason why we started with the Third Act. If we had started with First Act we would not have been able to bring the play to a finish. Thank you!
(Curtain)
PAGEANT OF SCOUTING
Here we see a presentation of the major features of the Scout Program in pageant or tableau form. The Troop forms in a large half circle, and sets up a number of signs. These read: Signaling. First Aid, Oath and Law, Indian Craft, Camping, Cooking, Map Making, etc. Two Scouts are assigned to each subject, and they put on a demonstration of their particular subject. The signaling team send a message; the first aid team apply bandages, the Oath and Law detail consists of one Scout standing in the position of the Scout Sign; the Indian Craft team are in Indian costume, one beating a tom-tom, the other making the friction fire; camping is shown by the setting up of a background of evergreen branches and the pitching of a pup tent and
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building a fire; cooking is similar to camping; and the map makers have a plane table on a tripod and are taking a sight.
At a whistle signal the activity stops and everybody "freezes" into a striking half-circle tableau. In the midst of the silence, the Oath and Law Scout repeats in a clear voice the Scout Oath and Law. This lends itself to a variety of subjects as may be desired.
DWARFS AND GIANTS
An enormous amount of fun can be secured from the making of a dwarf and a giant. In either case very little in the way of apparatus is required. When making a dwarf, hang two curtains in an open doorway. In front of the curtains a small table is placed. The table should have some kind of drapery hanging down to hide the legs. It is also a good thing to have a curtain between the audience and the table so as to hide things until the performers are ready for the show.
For the actual making of the dwarf, two persons are needed, one of whom is rather taller than the other. The tall individual should disguise his face in some way by means of a queer hat, a wig, or a mask. Over his hands he puts a pair of stockings putting on each hand a shoe. The shorter of the two now stands behind and thrusts his arms forward under his companion's armpits. A tunic of some kind such as a child's dress is fastened round the neck of the tall individual while the arms of the short person are pushed through the sleeves of the tunic. The shoe-clad hands rest on the table and form the feet of the dwarf. After bending
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forward the curtains are pinned securely above the head and are arranged close to the tunic at the side. In this way nothing can be seen by the audience but the head, the arms, and the hands which look like feet. The hands of the smaller person really seem to belong to the owner of the head and legs.
It is well to have a third person to pull, back the front curtain and introduce the dwarf. When all is ready the curtain is pulled aside and the show begins. If the owner of the hands remembers that these are playing the part of legs the illusion can be kept up almost indefinitely, and the dwarf dances about in a most realistic manner.
For the making of a giant, a small boy is needed. He should take up his position in a crouching attitude on a chair. Get a pair Of men's trousers and stuff these with paper so as to make them look as if they contained legs. Pin the upper part of these to the knees of the boy and then, at the bottom, insert a pair of boots. Put a long coat on the boy, which comes down well over the trousers. Let him wear a man's hat and if any kind of whiskers can be put on his face so much the better. If the coat and trousers are arranged with care the chair is completely hidden from the onlookers who are in front. The impression is exactly that of a funny little man. When the time comes to display the giant the boy slowly starts to get up towards a standing position. The audience see the dwarf grow up before their eyes into a tall man, and few can detect how the trick is done.
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PERFORMING SEA LIONS
The actors are draped in any sort of black cloth, have black stockings on their arms, and wear the typical walrus or "Old Bill" mustaches made of cotton or frayed rope. They go through the various stunts which Sea Lions do, including the bouncing of a large rubber ball from one to the other, and devouring of a number of fish made up of cloth and stuffed with cotton.
As each Sea Lion does his own particular stunt, the others clap their flippers and applaud vigorously. Each Sea Lion has a seat or pedestal made from a small box, appropriately painted, and labeled "Ice."
HISTORICAL TABLEAU
The Troop can present an historical tableau showing the History of the United States. The costumes may be improvised from various articles-of old clothing and home furnishings. History books will be a helpful source of inspiration in getting costume ideas.
Some of the episodes that may be presented are:
"The Landing of the Norsemen"
"The Landing of Columbus"
"The Plymouth Rock Episode"
"Punishment in Puritan Days" (showing a miscreant in the stocks)
"Daniel Boone" "Boston Tea Party"
"Minutemen at Lexington"
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"Washington at Valley Forge"
"The Making of the Betsy Ross flag"
"A Covered Wagon Attacked by Indians"
"The Emancipation proclamation"
"Roosevelt at San Juan"
"Buy A Liberty Bond"
"The First Armistice Day"
SMUDGE BOXING
The boxers are stripped to the waist and a raid is made on the camp make-up box. Here a can of burnt cork for minstrel shows will be found (burnt cork will do), and this is daubed on the gloves. Every hit registers, a score for points being possible if desired. Any one who has seen this will remember what a picturesque "blinker" may easily be obtained. The boxers may stand in barrels or in a rather small chalked square.
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MINSTREL
The camp minstrel should be divided roughly into three parts: The opening overture and cross fire of jokes, the specialties or individual acts, and some sort of a sketch for a finish.
The songs should be familiar to all. Use your best natural comedians for the end men. Parodies may be written to old tunes, and medleys of plantation airs are popular and harmonious. See "Songs Scouts Sing" for some good action songs and parodies. The interlocutor has written notes, and he "feeds" the jokes to the others.
For specialties, it is customary to have solos, both vocal and instrumental, and other vaudeville stunts.
The final sketch may well be a take-off of some camp happening, may have some local significance or may be a one-act play.
Witmark & Sons, 1659 Broadway, New York City, have for many years specialized in minstrel programs, props, and literature. If planning a minstrel, you may care to write them for suggestions.
SIDE SHOW
Here we have, gentlemen, the Wild Man, the Bearded Lady, the Chinese Giant, the Musical Dwarf, the Fat Man, the Strong Man and the Snake Charmer. And in a safe and secure pen are the Animal Freaks of weird shapes and variegated coloring.
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The Wild Man (procured with heavy mortality) wears a spiked collar, and has fielders' gloves for feet. A "hand" of banana stems makes a mouthful of terrible teeth, and his roar is produced by a concealed but useful member of the troop, armed with a tin can through which a rosined string is rapidly passed. At the psychological moment the Wild Man escapes from his cage and pursues the rube constable all over the place.
The Bearded Lady is dressed appropriately, and wears a full beard, made of frayed hemp rope or mattress stuffing.
The Chinese Giant is built up by one lad riding on the shoulders of another, the whole figure being incased in a blanket.
The Tattooed Man is beautifully decorated with blue grease paint.
The Fat Man may easily be manufactured with a few pillows.
The Strong Man lifts heavy (wooden) weights and bends iron pipe (rubber hose). He also breaks chains. These are previously broken and rejoined with thread. (For detailed act see separate article.)
The Snake Charmer is an oriental lady of reptilian tastes. The difficulty is to get a few snakes for the lady to manipulate. Use rubber or wooden ones, if necessary. - The Animal Freaks are small pigs borrowed from a nearby farmer and painted with grease paint. Large polka dot effects are most attractive.
But most: important of all is the tin pan and kazoo band, and the side show "barker" with red vest, black mustache and brown derby.
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BLINDFOLD BOXING
The contestants in this stunt are blindfolded; but the blindfolds are so arranged that they can see a little. The idea is for the boxers to mix it up a little, and then get separated and rush in the direction of the audience swinging wildly in every direction. A few rounds of this will serve to keep the audience on their toes and provide quite a bit of entertainment.
For a variation, use two Scouts who have never been "sold" and spring a surprise on them. Tie a rope to each boxer, the other end to be tied to his chair. These are just long enough to enable the contestants to meet each other and register a hit. They are then blindfolded, and allowed to box for one round.
During their rest a large knot or loop is tied in one of the ropes. As a result they will be sparring away ten feet apart, to the amusement of the spectators. A boy is delegated to create the illusion of contact with the other boxer.
TRAINED ANIMAL
Trained animals may be made up of a frame-work with cheesecloth for a covering, and two men inside, one for the front legs and the other for the rear. Elephants, giraffes and horses may thus be made to do some truly marvelous stunts, especially when the elephant, Gladys, sits down on the trainer.
By nodding its head the giraffe may tell its age, the day of the week, month of year, etc. With a little practice some amusing dance steps may be performed. (See front cover).
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MODEL CAMP
We are not surprised to see a camp scene suddenly come into being, because camping is a part of Scouting. A number of pup tents have been erected, each Scout having a definitely assigned task. Some set up the tents, some arrange the camp fire, others get the food unpacked and proceed to kindle a fire and cook a meal. For indoor rallies the floor must be protected with trays of earth and asbestos.
This particular Troop has been well instructed. We note that they are making beds out of evergreen boughs, and we see several stick beds made of willow that unroll like a hammock, and pack in a very small space. The cooking unit has set up a well-ordered camp kitchen with pothooks and an improvised table and bench. No stunt is more common than this one, but it's all a matter of how well the thing is done.
See the Service Library pamphlets, "The Yucca Patrol Idea" and "The Pine Tree Patrol."
IN THE DENTIST'S CHAIR
The dentist is equipped with an array of plumber's tools, and also the repair kit of a garage mechanic. The unwilling patient, with his jaw bandaged in a red bandana handkerchief, is led groaning to his fate. The dentist administers gas through a large funnel and when the gas does not take effect, he uses a mallet. The operation then begins, and results in the production of a (cardboard) tooth several times as large as the mouth of the patient.
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WORST AID CLASS
The one who is teaching the class gives each student a triangular bandage and stands out in front to lecture them. "Now the first thing to remember is to keep your bandages sanitary always," he says. One pupil drops his on the ground and steps on it in picking it up. A second rubs off his shoes with his and another one wipes his face on his. Instructor goes on talking and asks each one to tie certain bandages. All tie the crudest and worst bandages they can and he looks them over, and says, "That's fine, you're learning fast." Then he says that they'll have an oral quiz.
1st Question: What is the treatment for fainting? Answer: Reviving them. (Teacher says "right.")
2nd Question: What would you do for bleeding from cuts on the head?
Answer: Put a tourniquet on the neck. ("Right.") 3rd Question: What do you do for a broken leg? Answer: Shoot him.
4th Question: What is the treatment for burns? Answer: Pour water on them.
5th Question: What do you do with a drowned person? Answer: Bury him.
6th Question: What do you do for sun stroke? Answer: Hit back with a moon beam.
7th Question: What do you do if a dog bites you! Answer: Bite him back.
8th Question: What is a headache? Answer: A numb feeling in the head. Any number of questions of this sort may be used.
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INDIAN VILLAGE
The program tells us this Indian village is put on by a group of older Scouts from several Troops. First come a couple of Indian scouts who spy out the land. Then the tribe advances and makes camp. Tepees are set up, fires lighted, and routine activities of the tribe are shown in action. We note that several large dogs have been drafted, each dragging a travois. Women are seen with papooses slung on their backs. The demonstration ends with a sun dance and the breaking of camp.
Tepees may be all lashed together and ready to put up, which will save a great deal of time. For the preparation of Indian' costumes see the Service Library Pamphlet "Indian Handicraft."
DEADEYE DICK
The marksman is a dead shot with a cap pistol*, which he demonstrates by breaking milk crackers held by his assistant. The assistant breaks the crackers with his fingers.
A target is set up and he rings a bell at the bull's-eve with every shot. A duplicate bell off stage "rings in" on this act. This he varies by shooting between his legs, and with a cardboard obstructing the gun sights. As a final marvel he shoots sighting in a mirror. Sometimes the bell rings when he misfires, and a vase breaks on the opposite wall.
*Do not use real pistol or revolver.
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SINKING SHIP
Our hero enters with a watering pot, and sprinkles some water on the ground. He exits and returns in a "boat." He lowers the sail and looks about with a pair of bottles for binoculars. He lowers the anchor and starts to fish. Another fellow is located in a barrel, and hitches an endless succession of absurd things onto his line such as shoes, bathing tights and a cat (catfish). A gun is heard outside and he runs up a white flag. Another is heard and he proceeds to sink (drops boat to ground) violently. Under cover of the boat he gets a mouthful of water and swims ashore (offstage) spouting the water.
STRONG MAN
A strong man "take off." He lifts a weight (balloon) which suddenly bursts. After repeated efforts and with terrific display of strength he breaks a match; He lifts a heavy weight (made of cardboard) which, when he bows to acknowledge applause, continues to move aloft. (A long piece of black thread has been attached to it and passed over chandelier or anything else convenient. Someone in the rear pulls thread.) He breaks handcuffs, etc. He then gives a demonstration of chest expansion, using an old football bladder or a balloon, which is pumped up by a lad concealed behind a nearby screen or curtain. A climax is reached when the "chest" explodes.
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BARBER SHOP
A, large quantity of lather plays an important part. The barber, graduated from a correspondence school, plies razor, shears and other instruments of torture like a professional, in the meantime keeping up a running fire of conversation about politics and the administration, but checking any tendency of the victim to reply by prompt application of the shaving brush. Some of the properties are a huge wooden razor, grass shears, an insect sprayer atomizer, black paint with which the barber paints on a mustache (removed in error), and a paperhanger's brush with which to apply the lather. Hemp rope, frayed and dyed will do nicely for surplus hair.
THE OPERATION
The patient is brought in on a stretcher and the doctors hold a consultation, meanwhile getting their tools ready. These include an icepick, ice tongs, saws and farm and forge implements.
The operation includes the production of an incredible amount of hardware and miscellanies from the patient's insides, which are previously concealed back of him.
At the finish the two stretcher bearers pick up the stretcher, but the patient remains on the ground and the bearers walk over him. The doctor presents his bill and the patient takes a look at it and dies. They put a sign on him, "Opened by mistake."
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THE FAMOUS LEVITATION STUNT
The patient, of the Professor is discovered, when the curtains open, lying covered, as if on a couch. A camp cot with a split canvas cover will do nicely for the "couch." Two chairs may be used. A large sheet or blanket is thrown across his body.
The Professor appears, bows, and proceeds to hypnotize his patient. When the patient is unconscious the Professor stands behind him, facing the audience and makes passes over his body.
Then an amazing thing happens. The body slowly rises to a point a few feet above the chairs! Then it slowly sinks to its former position.
Reference to the drawing will show how this is done. The patient holds two light sticks in his hands. On the ends of the sticks are a pair of shoes. The patient is really crouching in front of one chair, and at the proper time he slowly rises and falls, as ordered by the Professor.
This is a very effective stunt, but it calls for practice.
MOTHER GOOSE DRAMIATIZATION
The Patrol or Troop that is putting on the stunt carefully plans and presents a dramatization of one of the many Mother Goose stories, such as Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, The Three Little Pigs, The Three Bears, or any one of many others which will
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suggest themselves. Some very amusing dramatizations will be presented by the Scouts. These may either be in pantomime or acted out with words. Costumes may be improvised ad. lib.
This may be made a competitive stunt by having each Patrol act out the same story, giving appropriate recognition to those that put on the best dramatization.
COMEDY BASEBALL GAME
Four players take part, a pitcher, catcher, umpire and batter. The ball is entirely imaginary, but the act is so thoroughly rehearsed that each move is natural, so that the catcher slaps his glove high in the air just after the batter swings at a high one. An amusing stunt is to have the catcher reach ahead of the bat and pick one off before the man can swing.
Someone says-Isn't it wonderful how that pitcher can hit the bat every time, regardless where the other fellow holds the stick!!!
A comedy consultation between the members of the battery may be made, also a high foul tip which is so long in coming down that the catcher has time to read the paper. Finally the batter knocks a Home run amid great excitement, and slides home. A five-dollar-bill slipped to the umpire also figures in the plot.
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SHADOWS
A number of these sketches will be effective if: put on as a shadow entertainment, The Barber Shop, In the Dentist's Chair, The Operation, Comedy Kitchen, and similar acts. The actors will have to stand in profile. The further away the light is placed the larger they will appear on the screen. Some amusing effects can be obtained by moving the light back and forth. If an actor jumps over the light, which may be placed on the floor, he will appear to leap directly into the air and vanish. Cardboard articles may be used for the dentist act, the operation act, etc., which will look like the real thing in shadow. This applies to the tooth of the patient, the razor of the barber, etc.
In the barber act an amusing effect may be obtained b the "victim" using a banana for his nose. The barber takes a swing at this and actually cuts it off.
COMEDY KITCHEN
A "take-off" on the camp kitchen. A live cat or chicken in a kettle, a firecracker in a loaf of bread ignited by accident, and a stove that flares when lighted, are stunts to use. The cook detail is unusually "dumb." When sent for milk, one helper brings a hod of coal. A comedian who blacks the stove and incidentally himself, will enliven things.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
Dramatize the History of the Flag 3
St. George and the Dragon 4
Pageant of Merit Badges 5
School Room. 6
Oratory 7
Krazy Kamp 8
A Week in Sing Sing 8
The Flivver Stunt 9
The King With a Terrible Temper. 10
Mock Mind Reading 11
Comedy Boxing 13
Another Mind Roading Stunt13
At the Railroad Crossing. 14
Comedy Bull Fight 15
Oath and Law Pageant 16
The Dagger 18
Pageant of Scouting 21
Dwarfs and Giants 22
Performing Sea Lions 24
Historical Tableau 24
Smudge Boxing 25
Minstrel 26
Side Show 26
Trained Animal 28
Blindfold Boxing 28
Model Camp 29
In the Dentist's Chair 29
Worst Aid Class 30
Indian Village 31
Deadeye Dick 31
Strong Man 32
Sinking Ship 32
The Operation 33
Barber Shop 33
The Famous Levitation Stunt 34
Mother Goose Dramatization 34
Comedy Baseball Game 35
Comedy Kitchen 36
Shadows 36
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Acknowledgments are due to "The Rally Book," "Games for Boys," by G. S. Ripley, "Camp Fire Helps," "SCOUTING," the "How Book," the "Handbook for Patrol Leaders." and S. Leonard Bastin.
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