'Home Theaters' For the Victorian Age.

Authors :: Kahn, Eve M.
Source :: New York Times. 12/17/2010, Vol. 160 Issue 55257, p35. 0p.
Publication Year :: 2010
Abstract: Victorian toymakers spun off products from the latest theatrical productions soon after the plays opened. Printers manufactured miniature paper and wood theaters with accurate sets and costumed actors dangling on wires, footlights that burned gas or oil, and scripts for children to memorize. The toys had poor survival rates. The lithographed and painted surfaces wore out, and the frames snapped. Also, the footlights were hazardous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]