Scene 86

Scene Eighty-six...Clara
Time: Afternoon, Saturday, October 12, 1946
Place: Ballet School
Storyteller: Janet


What a relief. 
Mom told me not to quit. I better pay attention to Brodskys. They're holding hands, asking for quiet.

"Competition for 'The Nutcracker' has been fierce," says Sergey. "Robert, come up here."

The tall boy blushes and moves forward.

"As you know, I usually play the part of the prince, but... Robert, your dance technique has improved so much since 'Swan Lake', you deserve to be the male lead in our Christmas performance."

Everybody claps and some whistle.

"Anya, would you like to announce who will play the beautiful Clara?"

"Certainly. Nancy, come here..."

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