The Schaffner Players

often unacceptable or downright immoral to rural playgoers.

Some rep plays were melodramatic, in that they relied heavily on action and emotion. They were not, however, the “meller-drama” that is so often spoofed today. Many plays were farces, but the majority were comedy-dramas that had very serious monents. Henry Brunk, whose family operated five different companies, knew the worth of serious drama at the box office. He once stated, “A laugh is worth a dime, a tear is worth a dollar.”[10] Mr. Brunk was referring to the belief that if a dramatic play was done well enough to move audience members to tears, they were sure to return for future productions.

Prior to World War I, most companies opened on Monday, then performed a different play each day through Saturday. Since Sabbath performances were not approved by the townspeople, the company traveled to the next town on Sunday.

After moving pictures began to be shown on Sundays, several rep companies, including the