Act 1, p. 20-34 Summary

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are still on stage in their non-descript location when they are joined by six "Tragedians" or traveling actors, musicians, and their leader, referred to as the Player. The Player comes in last and has no instrument. One of the group is a small boy named Alfred. Two people of the group pull a cart, which carries their belongings and props piled into it. There are three musicians who are a drummer, a horn-player, and a flautist. The Player orders the group to halt, which they do. The player sees Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and exclaims excitedly that they have an audience. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern begin to rise, but the Player tells them not to move, and they resume their seats. The Player is very glad to see them, and comments that it is a lucky thing they...