These things might seem trivial when compared to more serious matters, but since rulers and leaders often enjoy such entertainments, it’s better they be refined and elegant rather than gaudy and expensive. Dancing paired with singing can bring both grandeur and enjoyment. Ideally, the singing should come from a choir positioned above, with soft instrumental music playing in harmony, and the song’s lyrics should suit the occasion or theme.
When it comes to performances, acting within songs—especially as part of a dialogue—adds a distinct elegance. By “acting,” I don’t mean dancing, which can feel ordinary and unimpressive. The voices in these dialogues should be deep and powerful (a bass and tenor, rather than a high-pitched treble), and the lyrics should be dramatic and impactful, avoiding anything too delicate or overly refined. Choirs placed opposite one another, singing in turns or in harmony, create a wonderful experience.
Choreographing dances into complex patterns is unnecessary and overly intricate—it’s a distraction. In general, the best forms of entertainment are those that naturally appeal to the senses rather than relying on superficial gimmicks. For example, changing scenes onstage quietly and smoothly creates a striking visual effect and gives the eyes something fresh before they grow tired of seeing the same thing. These scenes should use plenty of light, especially with varied and colorful effects. Performers descending from the stage should include small movements while still visible to the audience, as it builds intrigue and captures attention.
The songs should be bold and lively—not weak or whiny. Similarly, the music should be vibrant and well-placed for maximum impact. Colors that look their best by candlelight include white, soft pink, and a shade of green reminiscent of seawater. Simple but shiny decorations, like small sequins or gems, can be incredibly striking without much expense. On the other hand, intricate embroidery is wasted in dim light and goes unnoticed.
The costumes for performers should be tasteful and well-suited to the individual, especially when masks are removed. Avoid clichéd themes like Turks, soldiers, or sailors, which lack originality. Anti-masques—short comedic or fantastical performances—should not drag on. These often feature characters like fools, satyrs, wild creatures, spirits, witches, or moving statues. However, angels don’t work in this context, as they lack the comedic element, and horrifying figures like devils or giants are equally misplaced. The music for these performances should be entertaining, with unexpected and dynamic shifts to maintain interest.
A subtle release of pleasant scents—without any visible mist or droplets—is particularly enjoyable in gatherings where heat and crowding might otherwise cause discomfort. Double masques, featuring groups of men and women, can add elegance and variety to an event, but none of it matters if the space isn’t kept clean and orderly.
For events like jousts, tournaments, and ceremonial displays, the spectacle lies in the details. Chariots carrying the participants should be designed with creativity—perhaps drawn by unusual animals like lions, bears, or camels—or feature intricate themes for their entrances. The richness of their uniforms, the quality of their horses, and the shine of their armor all contribute to the grandeur of the scene.
But enough about these entertainments. They serve their purpose but remain secondary to more profound endeavors.
Bacon Blueprint 