The Brute Drama

As the curtain opens, the music will reflect the depression of Mrs Popov and that we are in Russia (perhaps using some famous Russian folk tune integrated into the overture). Mrs. Popov is standing looking out of her window (right stage).
We see the interior of a victorian country home. Up center is a large painting covered with a black drape so you don't see the whole image of the man. Mrs. Popov is a beautiful woman in her thirties, fighting back tears. In comes her fuddy duddy servant named Babalu who is bringing her a cup of tea. He is worried about her. As he reaches center stage, he notices the audience, turns and steps toward them singing in a kind way... |Babalu |Good afternoon. |
| |As you can see, my mistress is in a bad way. |
| |I am worried sick since my master died. |
| |Leaving her alone to pine away. |
| |She's getting thinner every day. |
| |This cup of Cha will cheer her up and chase the blues away. |
| |He x to her, to offer the tea, but she rejects and waves him away. And holds on to the curtains in |
| |anguish. He looks at the audience and shakes his head and tip toes out to the kitchen. |
|Mrs Popov |Being Brave |
| |I must never set foot out of doors again.