A Night of Acceptance

Pre Show

2nd October 2021. A night where little did, I know would change my life completely.

I head off to the venue all excited. I had my little dress, and my red lipstick and I was ready for a night of entertainment. This was also my first meet up with this group since I joined last year, and whilst I was nervous, I was very much looking forward to it. But I couldn't enjoy the show on an empty stomach, so I decided to head to my favourite Fish and Chip shop to get some of their finest food.

As soon as I got there, I ordered a chicken burger. A good source of protein meaning I would be fuller for longer. I was also meeting Dylan, a friend who I met through the group, as after being slightly conscious of walking to the venue by myself in the dark, he kindly volunteered as tribute to make sure I got there safe and sound. He clearly took the advice from Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games well. Before long, he arrived.

"Hi Kayla," he greeted.

"Hey," I replied, "how are you?"

"Not too bad thanks. You?"

"Perfect."

He ordered some food as well. We decided to sit in and eat it before we went to the venue, and we got chatting about our experiences. He was very fascinating to get to know. He'd been in the class for about 2 years, and he said it was the best experience he's had, so I definitely made the right call.

"What about you?" he then asked, "Why did you do it?"

"Well," I began, "I was going to join last year, but because of college I feared I would take on board too much. But then lockdown happened so that was impossible. And then after a breakup a couple of months before I joined, I decided to take the leap of faith and apply again. And I've honestly never looked back. I know I've still got a long way to go, but I know this group will help push me forward."

Dylan was very moved by it. "That's incredible," he stated, "And I'm sorry you had to go through that."

"It's okay. He wasn't a good kisser anyway."

We both gave off a chuckle.

Before we knew it, it was time to head to the venue, but I noticed that Dylan's plate was not empty.

"Are you full?" I asked him.

"Yes," he replied immediately, "But I'm going to ask for a tub to take this with me. You never know when you might need it later on."

I had to agree with him on that. Even I struggled to eat all of my burger. But I knew it was too good not to waste. We then made a steady walk to the venue. We got talking some more, and I mentioned Stanley Geller to him, but he stopped me right there.

"Oh you'll love him," he stated, "One of the funniest people I've met."

I was in ore, "Oh wow! I can't wait to see what he does."

"Trust me you will not be disappointed."

I was then feeling hopeful as we carried on walking.

As I made my way into the venue, I was greeted with the warmest welcomes.

"Heyyyy!" all of the performers replied. I instantly felt so much love in the room.

Jack, one of the performers, was curious, and instantly asked, "Are you here to perform?"

I simply replied with, "No. But if any of you need any assistance with anything before the show, then I'm here to give you all a helping hand. And... I make a mean cup of tea."

Everyone was pleased with this announcement. Then my teacher, Tulley Simmons, came up to me.

"Thanks so much Kayla," he said, feeling grateful, "Just whilst we get everything set up, would you mind just waiting outside and then I'll let you know what I need you to do for me please?"