for what would be his last performance. It was Saturday night, the last night of the show, and the house was packed. He glanced to the wings as he crossed stage right, gave Amber a small smile, and continued. The audience lifted him, made the performance fly in a way he couldn’t on his own. It was euphoric, as his mind and body moved without any conscious thought, as he flew through song after song, line after line, dance after dance. They finished to a standing ovation. He was one of the last of the cast to come forward for his bow, a place of honor, and the applause grew louder. Frederic and Mabel went last. They all joined hands and took a final bow. He gestured to the crew who’d helped them along so they could take their bow. Then he grabbed Amber, pulled her onstage for her bow, and kissed her. The audience ate it up. Then it was over. The house lights came up. The audience slowly exited the building. He felt deflated. He knew what came after this. Goodbye. Everyone moved on. He’d miss everyone.
