Opening night

Picture this: a dimly lit theatre, the anticipation thick in the air. Just as the audience settles into their seats, the lights abruptly flicker off. A deafening thump resonates from backstage, causing a collective gasp. And just as quickly as the darkness enveloped the stage, a blinding spotlight illuminates the scene, revealing an unexpected sight - a lifeless body sprawled on the floor, clutching a blood-stained knife.

Now, hold on a second. I can sense the confusion creeping in. Let's rewind to the very beginning and unravel this tangled web.

It all started three weeks ago during a seemingly harmless lunch with my nephew George. He, the aspiring young actor, was fervently trying to convince me to attend his debut play. Me? Well, I've never been a fan of the theatrical arts, but George can be quite persuasive. So, against my better judgment, I reluctantly agreed to be a dutiful audience member.

Fast forward to the night of the performance. As I made my way backstage to wish George good luck, I stumbled upon a rather... let's say, spirited exchange between the leading lady and another actress. George, ever the informant, filled me in on the juicy details.

"See that one?" he whispered, pointing towards the leading lady. "That's Victoria, the star of the show. And over there is Emma, playing a supporting role. Let's just say they've been at each other's throats since day one. Emma firmly believes she should have snagged the lead, not Victoria. It's been one fiery clash after another, and it's been going on for quite some time now."

With this newfound knowledge, I made my way back to my seat, bracing myself for the performance ahead. Now, I must admit, George truly had a knack for capturing the audience's attention with his talent. But alas, the same couldn't be said for the story unfolding before our eyes. It was as if the plot itself had taken a detour to Snoozeville. Just as I was about to lose all hope, the theatre decided to show off its mischievous side.

In a grand act of rebellion, the lights decided to take an impromptu vacation. Darkness enveloped the stage, leaving the audience in a state of bewildered confusion. But fear not, for the lights returned in a triumphant blaze, revealing a shocking sight - our mysterious leading lady lying lifeless, bathed in a pool of light, with a blood-stained knife as her sinister companion.