The beginning of "The Dancing Partner" emphasizes Geibel's great skill as a creator of mechanical toys. How is that part of his character important to the development of the story's theme? Because he is so skillful a mechanic, we expect that Geibel will give the demanding girl exactly the dancer she has asked for.
Geibel's intention to do good is far more important to the theme than his mechanical skill is.
Because he is skilled, we know that Geibel would never make a toy that could harm anyone.
The details about Geibel's skill tell us that his pride eventually will be his downfall.