DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN PHANTOM OF THE OPERA NOR DID I CREATE IT.
Introduction: The Opera Populaire
Vibrant colors filled the crowded dressing rooms of the Opera Populaire. Dancers were lining up for the opening act of their latest production. The shrill voice of Carlotta, the leading soprano in the opera house, was echoing through the corridors; she was warming up by herself, away from the other opera singers.
As soon as the rehearsal started, three gentlemen entered the stage and interrupted the act.
"Gentlemen, we are trying to rehearse!" the conductor with smooth slicked hair said nervously.
"As you can see, the new production of Hannibal is under way for tonight's performance," explained an old man. "Ladies and gentlemen, please listen up. The rumors of my retirement are all true. Let me introduce you to the two gentlemen who now own the opera house."
"Aha! I knew it!" shouted Carlotta out of nowhere.
" This is Monsieurs Andre and Firman." Small groups of people clapped while Carlotta kept her I-told-you-so smirk on her face.
"Let me introduce the new patron of our extraordinary opera house: the Vie Comte de Chagny."
"Gentlemen, this is a pleasure," the Vie Comte began. "I am deeply honored to support the famous Opera Populaire. I must take my leave now, for I am keeping you from your rehearsal." Just as the Vie Comte was finishing his sentence, the music started up again. The ballet dancers twirled and jumped to their routine, while the two owners and Madame Giry toured the stage.
"We take great pride in our world-class ballet, monsieurs," stated Madame Giry with a smile.
"I can see why. Especially that gorgeous blonde dancer," replied Monsieur Firman.
" She is my daughter, Meg Giry," Madame Giry replied, a little annoyed at the remark.
" And that other talented beauty! You have no relation to her, correct?" asked Monsieur Andre.
"Her name is Christine Daae. Very promising talent she has."
" Is she related to the famous Swedish string performer?" Andre asked.
" She is his only child, who was orphaned at seven when she came to live and train in the ballet dormitories." The piece came to a thundering close, and with the performers satisfied, they all crawled backstage to change out of their tight costumes. Backstage, one pair of ballerinas discussed their rehearsal as they walked back into the ballet dormitories.
