Tableaux: Track and Field

A photograph of Springfield College gymnasts performing Tableaux. There are three gymnasts, each representing a different track and field event. The gymnast on the far left is about to throw a shot put, with one arm and leg in the air and his body twisted. The gymnast in the middle is preparing to throw a javelin, with his left arm holding the pole and his right arm pointed up as his entire body leans back. The gymnast on the right is preparing to throw a discus, as it is placed behind his back and his body is hunched over.The Tableaux as used in gymnastics performances was created by Springfield College alumnus Leslie J. Judd (class of 1920), who went on to become a famous gymnastics coach at his alma mater (1921-1956). Tableaux, essentially, means living picture, and it is performed by costumed actors who remain silent and motionless. Tableaux have been used throughout theatrical history, but Judd transformed the idea. Coach Judd and Coach Frank Wolcott, his successor, created Tableaux that expressed ideals and commemorated moments in history. Tableaux are still performed by Springfield College gymnasts. For biographical information on Frank Wolcott, see: https://springfield.as.atlas-sys.com/agents/people/54