Hear My Voice

Third Month's a Charm

[Author's Note: The events that partake in this chapter are highly unrealistic as for the role of Christine takes months of preparation and rehearsals. This is purely for entertainment purposes since it is just an idea that popped into my head one day. Also, I do not own anything associated with the musical of The Phantom of the Opera. Enjoy!]

     My eyes shoot open when the sound of my alarm fills my small studio apartment on a Monday morning. For once, the annoying buzzing seizes to be so -well- annoying. I glance over at the flashing time of 8:00 a.m and press the off button. Relaxing into my pure white bedspread, I stare up at my immobile ceiling fan and think over what I have to do today.

     Since yesterday was a Sunday, which everybody in the Phantom production had off, I made it rather productive. I have a grueling History of Theatrics 103 final on Wednesday so I spent the whole of Sunday studying for it and then treated myself to an early night. I have never felt more rested on a Monday morning. 

     Let's see, today I have to sew new gems on the top of Kaley's slave girl costume and reattach a new layer of lace on Julia's wedding gown along with a new button on the bodice. That is just in addition to the usual ironing and steaming that I do everyday. 

     I throw the comforter off and get out of bed, the tiled floor of my apartment is cold on my bare feet. Rubbing my arms in an attempt to warm up I tip-toe over to the window to check the weather outside. New York City is notorious for brutal winters, and it is proven true today. With one peek through the curtain all I can see is a blanket of white covering the tops of skyscrapers and slush along the sidewalks in a dirty brown/grey color. This calls for my winter boots.

     Actually a bulky snowsuit would be better, but I'm a fashion major so that is basically against my morals.

     Shivering, I change out of my thin tank-top and shorts combination that makes-up my pajamas and put on an over sized knit maroon sweater, dark wash skinny jeans, and fake leather brown boots that go up to my knees. Their fleece lining make my feet feel warm and comfortable. On top of my outfit I slip on a black pea coat, matching black gloves, and a crocheted scarf I made when I was twelve. I smile as nostalgia brings back memories of cold winters back in my hometown of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 

     Looking at my watch, I realize I better leave now if I wish to accomplish everything before the girls come in. The snow will undoubtedly slow me down since I usually walk to the theater, a mere twenty-two blocks away, which is a bit more than one mile. That is not far for a typical New York City commute. However I am seriously considering taking the subway since the snowflakes are heavy and border lining on white out. 

     Leaving my apartment I lock the door behind me and check my bag for change for the subway. 

- - -

     When I walk through the backdoor of the Majestic, I realize two things that could be considered problematic. One: it is quieter than usual. Two: the call board is surprisingly blank.

     The call board has never been almost empty. 

     Since I get here much earlier than most of the other backstage staff members my sign in section is usually almost empty. However, on Monday mornings the performers have 8 a.m. rehearsals so the actor and actresses's section is always filled, with the exception of a few names here and there. In fact, the only principle (out of the three main leads) who has checked in is Jeremy Hays. Julia Udine, Kaley Ann Voorhees, and Norm Lewis are- are gone.

     Quickly I scribble my signature and rush to the dressing room. Maybe they just forgot about the call board since it is so cold out and they wanted to warm up and take off their wet clothes and- and... Ugh it is all pointless rambles. They have been here long enough that they have established a basic routine.