This is my version of a Dancing Harlequin. Originally invented by a Dutch
mechanic named Opre' in the 1700's.
Various incarnations of the Harlequin were used by magicians until the 1900's. Robert Heller enjoyed
great popularity with the Harlequin in the 1860's.
Mine is not the cute figure normally seen, but he still performs the complete routine, but mine has
an added feature. The lower jaw is articulated allowing him to simulate speaking. I guess a voice track could be used.
The basic routine is the magician carries a small box out to a table. Upon placing the box on the
table, the conjurer would knck on the lid. In a short time the box would open and you would see the Skeleton seated inside.
He then stands up and looks around. In a moment, he does a flip and is standing on the outside of the box. While out he is
capable of jumping up doing the splits and sitting on the edge of the box, kicking his legs in time with the music. He
can answer questions by head movements. The Skeleton is capable of smoking a pipe, cigarette or blowing a horn or extinguishing
a candle with his breath. After he has performed for a while with the magician, he does a backflip, stops mid turn at a position
of a handstand. He straightens his legs, holds the pose, completes his flip and assumes a seated position. At which time the
lid closes and the magician can at that time remove the box from the table.
