Written On A Canvas

Chapter 11

Chapter 11

"I didn't know this many people would come!" Sabrina, the lead, peeked on the curtain. She giggled in excitement as she turned to us.

It was the day of our show.

We were in the stage covered by the theatre curtain. Naka-circle kaming lahat para mag-prayer. I could sense the tension in each person in here as we bowed our heads and prayed, led by Jake.

When it was over, Kuya Frank stood in the middle.

"The night we've all been waiting for is finally here!" kinakabahan na untag nito. Pinagsalikop niya ang kaniyang kamay at iginagalaw-galaw habang nag-sasalita. "We worked our asses off for days, rehearsed for God knows how many times, and gave our one hundred percent effort just so this could be successful. You all are the best and I couldn't want any other casts and crews for this. So, what do you say, we give them a show?" A challenging grin appeared on his face as he looked at us.

He was different from Kuya Adrian from last year, if I were to notice. If Kuya Adrian was fine with mistakes and backlogs, Kuya Frank isn't. He's strict... but he's efficient. There was no doubt he deserved the position he's in right now. Just like what I always say towards Theatre club presidents--he's the best man for the job.

"Let's give them a show!" they chorused. We put our hands together in the middle and simultaneously raised it up, shouting in joy, thrill, excitement, and anticipation.

We quickly dispersed. The people immediately went to their respective jobs. The light technicians went to their jobs. The people in charge of the curtains went to their place, as well. Since I'm a playwright, I could help with anything I can. That's why I chose to stand by Brother Frank in case he asked me to do something.

We were just standing in the left wing of the backstage and waiting for 5 minutes before the show started.

"I haven't been able to thank you enough for the beautiful script you wrote, Isaiah. So thank you," Kuya Frank said softly while just looking at the actors preparing.

I looked at it hesitantly. "I just did my task, Kuya Frank..."

"I know. And you did great," sabi niya. "Next year, there will be a film festival. You should join. As a director, this time. Isn't that what you really signed up for in the Theatre club?"

That rendered me silent for a moment.

Really? A film festival? Does that mean I could get to make my own film? Does that mean I could direct it?

"But right, Kuya, the succeeding club president should be a senior high?" I asked. "I'm just in Grade 9 next year."

Club presidents are automatically the director of the plays the club will perform. Pwede naman raw iba ang mag-direct pero so far, hindi pa iyon nangyari sa amin. I'm still a junior high school student so I couldn't be nominated as the club president. If the club will join in the said film festival, I can't still be the director. I can be a playwright, yes, but... I can't be what I really want to be.

He looked at me and smirked. Napapailing pa ito sa narinig. "Everyone here knows your talent, Isaiah." He then leaned towards my ear. "Your place is secured," and smiled as he looked ahead.

I couldn't speak when I heard that. I'm still holding back a smile. I'm not sure what he's insinuating but it thrilled me. Whether I'll be the next club president or not, but the idea of ​​directing at last is making me feel euphoric.

I mean, could you imagine me directing? I can't either! And that's what excites me!

Two minutes before the show, I received a text from Aly. She also attached a photo.