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Show 174 TnE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. CHAPTER XI. ON VARIETY A N D CONTRAST. " Jucundum nihil est, nisi quod reficit varietas " P. STROS. •' Le contraste nous frappe endecontraires sens; Des termes opposes qu a nos yeux elle etale L'imagination mesure 1'intcrvalle." DELUXE. WHOEVER desires to excite interest or pleasure, must introduce variety into his works. Nature is our model, and nature is never long the same. The composer must strive to display variety in the plot in each succeeding scene, and in every act ; the passions and the characters must also partake of this amusing quality. It must be observed also, even in the dances and decorations; and every where lend its aid to produce a pleasing effect. Avoid uniformity, for with it comes monotony, and monotony begets weariness. Opposite qualities and striking contrasts are ever expected both in tragedy and comedy; but in the Ballet, they are indispensable. It is the peculiar province of Pantomime to express the widely-differing classes of passions and sentiments ; without such an opportunity the art of gesture could not long excite interest. Contrasts are palpably remarkable in nature, and they must therefore be found on the stage; they are essential to the drama, and never fail in producing great effect. They impart life and vigour to the Ballet. It is by the remarkable contrast observable |
