Here the critics were to be found.

The pit could make or mar the destiny of plays, and the reputation of players.

Dozens of regular playgoers knew the traditions of the theatre better than many actors and actresses.
They were sticklers for the preservation of the stage "business" to which they had been accustomed.

They knew certain lines of their favourite plays by heart, and how those lines ought to be delivered.
The curtain rose.

Acasto, Monimia, Chamont mouthed their various parts, and did exactly what was expected from them.