Life, 1926-07-22 · page 13 of 37
Life — July 22, 1926 — page 13: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a satirical sketch about theatrical casting, titled "Studies in Expression." It depicts four figures in what appears to be an audition or casting scenario, showing different emotional expressions and body language. The humor centers on a casting director's dismissive treatment of an actress. Despite claiming not to remember her, he then contradicts himself by recalling she was "in my chorus last season"—exposing his pretense of forgetfulness as a thin lie. The four sketches show varying poses and expressions, likely illustrating different dramatic interpretations the actress might attempt during her audition. The satire mocks both theatrical vanity and the power imbalance between casting directors and performers, common themes in early 20th-century Life magazine humor about show business.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Studies in Expression Casting Director: Miss — ah, Miss! I'm afraid I don't recall you. “Oh, yes — of course, Miss John- son —I_ remember you perfectly. You were in my chorus last season.” comicbooks.com