Look out for paint: A farce comedy in three acts

by Cornelius Shea

"Look Out For Paint: A Farce Comedy in Three Acts" by Cornelius Shea is a humorous play, likely penned in the early 20th century. This comedic work features a cast of characters revolving around the misadventures of a city boarder on a farm and explores themes of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. The play is set in the relatively recent past, specifically during its time of writing, to engage with contemporary societal norms. The storyline unfolds at "High Up Farm," where Hiram Rodney runs the family farm and prepares for summer boarders. A comedic mix arises with the arrival of various characters, including Hiram's daughter Helen and a city girl named Hattie Renwick, who has come hoping to find a husband. Complications ensue when an artist, Percy Heartache, and a tramp, Trotwell Roamer, get entangled in the farce as Hattie mistakenly believes she has a romantic connection with Percy through correspondence. As characters evince misunderstandings and comedic twists, the climax reveals a series of humorous pursuits that lead to an unexpected resolution, capturing the playful essence of farce while commenting on love and social dynamics.