Crystal Masque

THE CRYSTAL MASQUE books, masks and a readers theatre for twenty five chapters. Its masks are prescribed in crystal and framed for familiar or strange faces at a neighborhood optical shop. While providing his services and even when not, the master directs diverse dialogue involving his or their personal conflicts, complications, catastrophes. During most of the scenes, the walk-on apprentice, a schoolboy, stays silent but is watchful of what it takes to run a business. His senior is dependent upon him because of a pending retirement, yet fears to actualize, after having experienced family trials, sports triumphs, patriot plaudits and business booms, busts. Between its covers and curtains, there projects compassion for all ages, especially after a decision made by the boys master.