Article October 11, 1913 Issue

Behind the Footlights

CORTLANDT MARSDEN

The writer is engaged in the theatrical profession; and in traveling about the country, incidentally he has been able to witness or learn personally of many remarkable demonstrations in Christian Science. He always makes it a point to visit the various reading-rooms and churches, and to cultivate the acquaintance of Scientists. In so doing he is frequently asked questions regarding the progress that Science is making among those who are on the stage. This last sentence could be phrased in the past tense; for not only is the most satisfying progress being made, but the progress that has been made is tremendous. There was a time when a religiously inclined individual on the stage was a freak; and even today the performers who frankly though humbly proclaim their creed are the Scientists.

Are there many such on the stage? Yes. It is a very common occurrence to meet in the profession nowadays, and when one does not meet them, they are conspicuous by their absence. Moreover, they are good, earnest workers. Frequently I have been on a bill of fair size that was composed entirely of students of Christian Science. It is no rare sight into a dressing-room and see copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" lying conveniently near on a make-up shelf, side by side with a box of paint; or to see a performer with his face covered with burnt cork busily engaged in studying the Lesson-Sermon. One stage manager is known to have told a Scientist that he could detect Christian Scientists as soon as they entered the theater. Asked how, he replied, "I know them by their smile."

Recently, while playing in a western city, the opening day was particularly trying. A young couple whose acquaintance we had not made, occupied the room next to ours. They were dressing for the street when we returned to our room, and I remarked to my wife, "It isn't very scientific, but I feel tired out." That "scientific" was sufficient. From the other dressing-room came the query in unison, "Are you Scientists?" We replied in a happy affirmative and they echoed it. A charming friendship began right there and still continues. This is not isolated instance. Around the dressing-rooms or on the stage, some word or expression incident to our faith will not uncommonly be met with the query, "Are you a Scientist?" and pleasant companionship is assured.

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