Observations Of The Stage Manager

The solos, the lines, the illusion of glory
That comes to those starring in their high school's musical.
Both want - need - it so badly.
Competition more fierce than the jocks can imagine.

When you glance at the two they're
Opposites, really.
She's a blonde; petite, prominent, and beautiful.
The other is a dark, quirky sweetheart with the voice like warm honey.
Not what you want to have to choose between:
The looks or the voice,
The shoo-in or the dark horse.

Everyone can sense that the role
Will be one of theirs.
It is between the know-it-all
Who acts on and off the stage
Or the hesitant lone wolf, scrambling out of her shell.

Perhaps the it's the loner's skin color that restricts her role.

There'll be tears and cheers.
Overconfidence thriving while
Hopes are dashed and bruised egos recover.
Everyone disagrees
But smiles and applauds anyway.

Now the pressure is on.
Long hours, sore feet,
Being so tired it's vital they nap during science.
Get it right or pass out trying
Under the sweltering frame of the spotlight.