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In these there are rarely any boxes, for the theatre is assumed to be a democratic institution in which all may sit together; and there is often no balcony, as the floor of the orchestra is steeply pitched to afford every one a clear view of the stage. The proscenium arch is treated very simply, and while the ceilings may be elaborate the side walls are ornamented in an architectural manner with columns rather than with elaborate decoration and relief as in some American theatres. They are never left absolutely plain as in other playhouses in this country. Of course with the large charge that is made for orchestra chairs in New York at present the balcony is a Godsend to many people who would not otherwise be able to see the play.
Page 102
102INTERIOR DECORATING
But some of our balconies are so deep and so poorly constructed that from the back of them it is very difficult to obtain any enjoyment, and where there is a gallery this is placed so far above the stage that the entire scene is thrown out of focus. These questions are naturally not ones which come before the decorator. They are problems of finance and of social effort, but they affect the decoration of the theatre inasmuch as an auditorium with several balconies is far more difficult to render attractive than one with an orchestra only. Unfortunately, it seems impossible to make large productions pay in small theatres, and these appear to be possible only for intimate dramas where only a small cast is required. The big spectacle play, appealing to the great mass of the public, should properly be given in a huge auditorium on the style of the Greek theatre, but thus far we have nothing of that kind in America except the open air amphitheatres, which are not very well adapted to the modern drama.
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