Chairs are arranged in two neat rows upon which sit FLORA, ZACH, TWIG, DODI, and ZORAN. All the lamps in the room have been assembled by the piano, where JAS stands in a pool of light, looking like the proverbial trapped bunny. The rest of the room is in darkness. (Applause) JAS Shall I start? FLORA Don’t say “shall I start.” Survey the room and wait for silence. Command our attention. Then, when you have it, begin. DODI (whispering, to Twig) How’s it going with Maisie? TWIG (whispering back) What’s it to you? DODI (trying not to snigger) Just that I heard she was hanging out with Justin Murphy after school last Wednesday. TWIG (a lot more loudly) I heard you don’t know how to mind your own business. ZORAN (in a very loud stage whisper) Please show respect to your sister and be quiet. JAS, to everyone I actually don’t see the point of this rehearsal at all.
