No Talent Show

There were probably three hundred or more people in the audience. In the back of the auditorium, he spotted cameras on each side of the room. The recording had begun. No one told him about the taping. Suddenly he didn't feel too great.

The sound technician queued the introductory music. The audience quieted down. People backstage stood prepared and poised to do their part in the show. Elijah inhaled, closed his eyes, and waited for his cue from Teresa.

He strolled onto the stage and took his position in front of the microphone. His sweaty right hand gripped the index cards. Elijah froze. He felt the people in the front row staring at him, including the three unfamiliar judges. He stared back, stoned- face.

The quietness was eerie. Someone snickered. He squinted, then looked out into the crowd as if he knew who made the condescending sound. Suddenly he remembered what Mr. Garmon had told him. Look to the back of the auditorium, don't make eye contact with anyone. Concentrate on the back wall.

Three seconds, which seemed like a lifetime, went by. The anxiety had disappeared and was replaced by a warm, welcoming smile. Elijah inhaled, exhaled, and then spoke into the microphone.

"Good morning, everyone! My name is Elijah Finely. I'm your host for today's talent show. Ridge Pine Nursing Care and I warmly welcome you to their annual fundraiser. We're truly honored to have you with us. Today you will witness great performances from adults and children. We appreciate your support. So stay tuned and cooperate with the housekeeping rules listed in your program. And now, the show will begin. Please put your hands together for our first act. Ridge Pine residents and brothers Addison and Galloway will tap dance into your hearts."

Elijah followed Teresa's uplifted hand. Offstage, he stood in his assigned spot until the next act. It was going to be a long day. Elijah Finley, the emcee, was ready to rock and roll! He could handle it.

Author: Vm Roberts

Publisher: Independently Published

Publication Date: Jul 04, 2022

Number of Pages: 146 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: NA

ISBN-13: 9798809259217