The Chairs

Old Man

The protagonist of the play. The Old Man has been married to the Old Woman for seventy-five years, and entertains her nightly with the same story and imitations he has always done. Living on the island, he spends his time with a few hobbies, but mostly devotes himself to his "message" with which he will save humanity.

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Old Woman

Has been married to the Old Man for seventy-five years. On the island, her only entertainment is listening to her husband's stories and imitations, which she keeps fresh by erasing her memory nightly. She often reminds her husband of what jobs he could have had, and frequently plays the role of the Old Man's surrogate mother.

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Orator

Since the Old Man cannot express himself well, the Orator—who looks like a pompous 19th-century artist—is scheduled to deliver the Old Man's message. He has an actor's regal bearing and hands out autographs.

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Emperor

The most esteemed invisible guest the Old Man welcomes. The Emperor is bathed in light, and the Old Man and Old Woman defer to him at all times.

Belle

The invisible former lover of the Old Man, and the current wife of the Photo-engraver. The Old Man reminisces with Belle about their romantic past and appears to hold on to what could have been.

Photo-engraver

The husband of Belle. He gives the Old Woman a painting when they arrive, and she is much taken with him, flirting with overt sexuality.

Lady

The invisible first guest of the Old Man and Old Woman. They engage in casual conversation with Lady.

Colonel

The second invisible guest, a famous soldier. The Old Woman rebukes him for spilling his cigarettes on the floor, though she is also taken with his grandness, as is the Old Man with his prestige.

Newspapermen and other guests

The newspapermen and other guests arrive at the end. They are all eager to hear the Orator deliver the Old Man's message.