WRITER's NOTE - Sorry it has taken so long. I wasn't in one city longer than four days in January, but here it is. The chapter that reveals FAME! There's two writing styles in this chapter. If the writing is in italics it's the FAME script. Regular font is what's happening in our ANRID/WOF world. I hope you like it! Let me know what you think.


CHAPTER 53 – FAME

As the cast stood on stage receiving their applause, Holland once again took over and spoke.

"The story of FAME takes place in New York's very own New York Academy of Dramatic Arts known to all as NYADA. Which is why as I introduce the cast I must begin with the woman who is playing double duty as the Headmistress of both the actual NYADA and the one on the show. Please welcome Ms. Carmen Tibideaux who plays Professor Lydia Grant in FAME."

Holland handed the microphone over to Ms. Tibideaux who looked regal in her turban headpiece. The room went silence out of respect for her and what she stood for. She began to speak.

"As Headmistress of NYADA, when Mr. Murphy came to me with the idea of recreating such a legendary show within the halls of my institution I was reserved at first, but then I couldn't help thinking what an amazing opportunity it would be to show the world how powerful the arts can be. Like each of you in this room the performing arts has changed my life and the lives of our entire cast," she turned and smiled at the line of actors standing on the stage. "In my real life I am Carmen; a teacher before anything else and I love my students and want to see them succeed. It is my honor to also play the Headmistress of our fictional version of NYADA, Lydia Grant."

The room applauded for her announcement. At the same time, the side door of the auditorium opened and Will turned to see Lindsey walk in with her husband. He motioned her over and gave her a hug as she sat down.

"Mr. Schue, there is someone that I have been waiting to introduce you too for a long time. This is my husband, Zach," Lindsey whispered as Will shook Zach's hand.

"It's great to meet you," Will smiled.

"That's Lindsey's husband?" Marley turned to Kitty in the next row back. "He is beautiful."

"We've really got to get you to New York more often, Marley," she rolled her eyes but then smiled. "And yes, he's hot! You should see him with his shirt off."

Mrs. Tibideaux continued. "As for the staff of Fame's NYADA, I am joined right now by three incredibly talented actors who play staff members. Playing NYADA's dance and movement instructor Kate Hutson is Cassandra July." Cassandra stood forward and took her bow. "Playing the role of vocal graduate student Dean Geyer is NYADA graduate, Brody Weston." Brody stepped forward and received several whistles and cat calls from the audience. "And playing Kristin Chen who joins the staff of NYADA to reinvigorate the music program is April Rhodes." When April stepped forward Will whistled for her. It was great seeing an old friend finally achieve her dream.

On the same side that Aaron and Ian entered earlier, Ella walked in followed by Justin, Dani, and Bianca. The entire Five Star staff was now present to see the creation of what they had all worked on together.

"Now let me introduce you to the core cast of Fame which includes several faces you probably already know and some new young actors you will know very soon. Why don't we start with the girls?" Carmen continued. As she named each of the female members of the cast they stepped forward and took their bow.

Playing Rebekah Daniels, Claire Holton.

She plays Naya Gomez, Santana Lopez.

Her character is Jenna Johnson. I'm happy to introduce you to Tina Cohen-Chang.

Playing the female half of our power twins, Lea Porter, is Miss Rachel Berry.

She plays Dianna Rotundi, please welcome Quinn Fabray.

She plays Amber Grant who happens to be my character's daughter, Mercedes Jones-McClain.

And last, she's trading in her lying for amazing vocals, playing Aria Tyler, Miss Lucy Hales.

The audience applauded for all of them as the girls stepped back in line. Carmen continued. "Now let me introduce the boys." When she said this they all stepped forward and the girls in the room made it known how much they liked what they saw. "Let's start with the fresh new faces you see standing before you."

He plays socialite Grant Speedman. Please welcome Sebastian Smythe.

From Newsies to being Maxim Blumberg in Fame, Max Schneider.

As Harry Emrick, his moves will make you swoon. Mr. Mike Chang.

"These other four guys you might already know," Carmen's eyes beamed as she continued.

He went from Wolf Watch to Dancing with the Stars. Playing Danny Kahnui is Keahu Kalani.

Many know him as Jack Kelly from Broadway's Newsies. Now he is playing twin, Darren Porter. Welcome Blaine Anderson.

You all know this guy especially his gorgeous face. We're happy to have Colton Haines playing Jackson Crane.

And finally, playing the mysterious guitar playing crooner Chord Covington, Emmy winner, Sam Evans.

"As our cast finds their seats we hope you enjoy the show," she exclaimed and followed the rest of the cast to the balcony boxes as the movie screen lowered and the lights in the room dimmed into darkness.

Stacy leaned over to Stevie. "I can't believe we finally get to see Fame! Sam and Blaine have been talking about it for months."

-GLEE-

FADE UP FROM BLACK

("This is a New Year" by A Great New World plays in the background as the stage at NYADA appears. CAMERA pans towards an empty audience and continues up the aisle and out the door as the lobby fills with students and bags for the first day of school. CAMERA continues down hallway to the WHITE ROOM where KRISTIN CHEN stands outside the room listening. Inside LYDIA GRANT sits in front of a group of upperclassmen including REBEKAH DANIELS, NAYA GOMEZ, AMBER GRANT, ARIA TYLER, HARRY EMRICK, DANNY KAHNUI, and JACKSON CRANE.)

LYDIA:

Today, a new class of freshmen enter the hallowed halls of NYADA with their own pipe dreams of what they think FAME will be for them. As the motto goes for this school we are all the teachers of each others' futures. Myself and the other faculty members will take care of giving them the knowledge and belief in themselves but you will be responsible for teaching them the most important lessons. Every one of them may want to be famous, but so does everyone else. To each his own may the strong survive and the weak perish, but in every class there are a few like each of you that have exactly what it takes.

KRISTIN:

(walking into the room) For Fame? Or for glory? Are you in it for the art or for the money?

LYDIA:

(smiling) Allow me to introduce you to our new Choral instructor

REBEKAH:

You don't have to introduce her. That's Kristin Chen, Tony nominee who left Broadway two years ago and disappeared. Where have you been?

KRISTIN:

None of your business, doll. But know this, there is nothing like going back to your roots and letting that move help rediscover who you are, what you want, and what FAME could really be about.

(Performance of "This is a New Year" Begins)

KRISTIN: Another year you made a promise. Another chance to turn it all around. And do not save this for tomorrow. Embrace your past and you can live for now. And I will give the world to you.

(LYDIA hands out folders to each student. Inside is a freshman they are required to introduce to NYADA. They get up and leave heading towards their own rooms.)

Aria (Jackson): (holding hands as they walk out of the room) Speak louder than the words before you, and give them meaning no one else has found.

Henry (Danny): (begin to dance in the lobby causing others to stop and watch) The role we play is so important. We are the voices of the underground

Jackson (Aria): And I would give the world to you.

(NAYA joins the boys in their dance as others do as well)

NAYA: Say everything you've always wanted.

HARRY: Be not afraid of who you really are

Naya/Danny: Cause in the end we have each other, and that's at least one thing worth living for.

(REBEKAH stands at the Freshmen Orientation booth with AMBER as DEAN walks over to assist them. Every girl (and several boys) he passes can't help but stare at his beauty.)

DEAN: And I

REBEKAH: I

DEAN: Would give the world to you.

(As the song continues DIANNA walks in the side door. MAXIM walks through the front entrance watching the insanity of the school before them.)

Amber/Dean: A million suns that shine upon me, a million eyes you are the brightest blue. Let's tear the walls down that divide us and build a statue strong enough for two.

(ARIA, JACKSON stand in front of the main doors)

JACKSON: I pass it back to you.

Jackson/Aria: And I will wait for you.

(Behind them CHORD and GRANT enter; both with guitars on their backs and carrying their luggage)

Chord/Grant: 'Cause I would give the world

(JENNA enters right behind them and walks towards the orientation booth)

Chord/Grant/Jenna: And I would give the world

Add Dianna/Maxim: And I would give the world to you!

(As they get room assignments they're amazed by the dance going on around them. All five freshmen move to the elevator. As it closes the front door opens and twins, Darren and Lea, enter the school for the first time.

Darren/Lea: This is the new year, a new beginning. You made a promise. You are the brightest. We are the voices. This is a new year.

(The twins look around excited to be there and do not see KATE standing in the shadows scowling in their direction.)

-GLEE-

As the show went to commercial Cameron turned to see Kallie's face in awe.

"I take it you like it?" he laughed.

"Do you realize how many stories could come out of just that first scene?" she gushed. "Plus, did you see Blaine? He looks so good!"

"He does," Kitty added. "They all do, but how weird is it to see how much of real life is in it. I mean it's not hard to think of Blaine and Rachel as twins, and then Sam and Sebastian's characters are obviously best friends. And they all look hot, but I've got to admit Brody's character hasn't even said anything yet and I already want him naked."

"Me too," Michael kidded.

"Hey," Blake looked at his boyfriend oddly. "How would you feel if I said the same thing about Claire?"

"I'd say she'd probably love a ride on your big dick," he winked.

Blake wanted to respond but didn't have enough time before the commercial break was over and "Lea" and "Darren" were on the screen.

-GLEE-

(SETTING: LEA in girls' hallway; DARREN standing in elevator door frame)

LEA:

I just can't believe that we're finally here.

DARREN:

Yeah, we're here, but let's get through the first big obstacle before we act like babies from the Mid-West happy to be in the big city. I still have to meet my roommate and tell him I'm gay.

LEA:

Oh, please, Darren, we're at a theatre school. There's a 50/50 shot he will be too.

DARREN:

Thanks for the vote of concern, sis. (walks back into elevator and stops holding the door open.)

LEA:

(stops door from closing) You're my baby brother by five minutes. I will always care. I'm just telling you that you have nothing to worry about. Whoever your roommate is will love you. (she kisses her brother's cheek). Text me when you get settled.

DARREN:

Love you too sis.

(Doors shut and DARREN puts in his ear buds to listen to his music. When the doors reopen, he does not pay attention to the fact someone is trying to enter the elevator and runs directly into CHORD and falls back on his ass.)

CHORD:

Dude, you okay? You should probably be more careful (CHORD holds out hand and helps DARREN to his feet.) I didn't hurt you, did I?

DARREN:

(DARREN is unable to speak because CHORD is the most beautiful man he's ever seen)

CHORD:

(holding DARREN's shoulders.) Dude? You didn't hit your head or anything, did you?

JACKSON:

(walking out of a room near the elevator) Hey, you're Darren, right? I'm Jackson. I'm supposed to show you around.

CHORD:

Your name is Darren?

(DARREN shakes his head yes.)

CHORD:

Well it's nice to meet you, Darren. I'm Chord. (he let's go of Darren's shoulders and gets on the elevator) I'm sure we'll see each other again. (huge smile.)

(the doors to the elevator shut.)

DARREN:

(whispers.) Hi.

JACKSON:

Oh dear lord. (rolls eyes.) Come on freshman. Let me show you to your room. (JACKSON grabs one of DARREN's bags to help him.) So you're from Ohio?

DARREN:

Yeah, my sister and I came here from Cleveland.

JACKSON:

I'm from Cincinnati. I hope you're ready for the transition. It was Christmas before I got used to The City.

DARREN:

Well, we used to live here. We moved with my mom after my parents got divorced.

JACKSON:

Something else we have in common. My mom raised me too. Don't know how my father is. We'll have to get to know each other. My girlfriend is your sister's orientation leader so I made plans for us to go eat dinner later. (JACKSON stops in front of the room indicated on DARREN's folder.) Here we are and here is your key. (hands DARREN key.) Your roommate's name is MAXIM. My room is the one on the right closest to the elevator. Meet us downstairs at six. Sound good?

DARREN:

Yeah, thanks Jackson. We'll be there.

(DARREN walks into room and sees MAXIM has already claimed his space. He's shirtless and has abs of steel. DARREN wonders if there are any ugly guys in the school. MAXIM turns around to see his roommate standing there.)

MAXIM:

Hey man, you must be Darren. I'm Maxim you're roommate. I hope you don't mind I already picked a side of the room.

DARREN:

No, it's fine. I guess we should get to know each other.

MAXIM:

I'm a pretty open book not many secrets.

DARREN:

Can't really say the same.

MAXIM:

What are you talking about? Is it about you being gay?

DARREN:

(shocked.) How did you know?

MAXIM:

My brother's gay. I know the signs. You keep looking at my abs, you're carrying Coach luggage, and I might have overheard your conversation with the blonde kid from across the hall. I shut the door so you wouldn't know.

DARREN:

He's across the hall? Well I guess I get to relive that embarrassment every day.

MAXIM:

Don't be embarrassed. Go after it if you want it. I'll be your wingman.

DARREN:

What are you talking about?

MAXIM:

You like dudes. I like chicks. That means we don't have to compete with each other so we help the other out, what do you say?

(DARREN doesn't respond he just smiles)

(FILM CUT – LEA and ARIA are walking through the building as LEA is showed all of the facilities)

ARIA:

I probably shouldn't tell you this but I watched your audition video. You've got something special, Lea.

LEA:

Thanks Aria. I didn't expect to meet someone on my first day that would be a friend and on my side.

ARIA:

Don't expect that. Everyone here is looking out for themselves. Don't forget that. (pause.) Why don't I show you to some of our non-musical facilities? If you want to make it in this industry you've got to look the part. We've got a gym that could rival most universities.

LEA:

That's good. It's so important to keep yourself in good shape.

ARIA:

(stops to look into the window of the gym) That's true, but there are other perks of the gym.

(CAMERA pans to gym where CHORD and HARRY are working out shirtless. LEA stares at CHORD and you see her interest.)

LEA:

Who are they?

ARIA:

(puts arm over Lea's shoulders.) The hot sexy Asian is Harry. The beautiful blonde must be new. (Pause.) Let's go find out who it is.

(ARIA walks into gym and LEA freaks out. She finally follows.)

ARIA:

Hey sexy.

HARRY:

(turns to ARIA.) Hey gorgeous. Jackson let you out alone?"

ARIA:

He's with his new freshman and I'm with mine. Harry, meet Lea.

(HARRY hold out hand to shake LEA's.)

HARRY:

Nice to meet you, Lea. Let me introduce you to Chord Covington. I'm sure you two will see plenty of each other.

CHORD:

I certainly hope so. (CHORD, sweaty and shirtless, walks over to LEA.) It's very nice to meet you.

LEA:

Likewise.

(FADE OUT.)

-GLEE-

"Oh my gosh, I have no idea who I ship more?" Mia stated. "Should Chord be with Lea or Darren?"

"Do you think that's the angle?" Jacob wondered.

"Of course it is," Jessie insisted. "Hot blonde choosing between twins who both want the same thing. Sexual tension like that I guarantee you is already all over social media."

All having the same thought, the kids of New Directions pulled out their cell phones and started looking.

Across the theatre, Aaron turned to Ella and kissed her. "Do you hear the buzz in this room? You were so right about this show. I will never doubt you about anything. This is amazing. You're amazing."

"Damn right I am," Ella kissed him back.

-GLEE-

(KRISTIN walks into LYDIA's office.)

KRISTIN:

Got a minute for me to run a few ideas passed you?

LYDIA:

I heard that you planned to start things off with a musical. Is that true?

KRISTIN:

More of a tribute actually. I planned to tie it in to their theatre history lessons you have me teaching.

LYDIA:

Well it is important that they be well rounded and know about more than performing Ms. Chen. (she pauses for a moment.) I remember you as a student. You were opportunistic, never afraid of the spotlight. You were hungry to make it in this business. You literally knew it all and that is what I want to see you teach these kids.

KATE:

(from the open doorway) Is she going to teach them how to steal their way to the top as well?

LYDIA:

Ms. Hutson, I assume introductions are not necessary.

KATE:

For the woman who took away the classes you promised me? You've had me as a glorified dance instructor for five years, Lydia, and last term you promised me the performance classes and now here you are giving them to her and I'm stuck teaching freshmen theory classes?

LYDIA:

Ms. Chen's knowledge of the stage makes her a better fit for those classes, Kate. It was nothing personal. You're an incredibly trained and beautiful dancer. I thought that was where your passion lied. Perhaps I was wrong.

KRISTIN:

If it's about the freshmen choir I can take that off your hands. (she smiles at KATE.) They're starting new just like I am. In fact, Mrs. Grant, why don't we split the work load. I didn't intend to create friction with the other faculty.

LYDIA:

What do you have in mind?

KRISTIN:

I'm already teaching sophomore choir so combine it with freshmen. Kate can have the juniors and seniors. They know her and trust her as a teacher already anyway.

KATE:

That still doesn't change the fact that you took my performance classes away.

KRISTIN:

So we teach two. You teach the upperclassmen. I teach the underclassmen and at the end of the term we have a friendly showcase and show off what both of our classes can do to the rest of the school.

KATE:

I don't like it. I want them all. They are supposed to be mine.

KRISTIN:

What? Are you afraid of a little friendly competition?

KATE:

With you? Bring it!

LYDIA:

(to stop the argument) Ladies, I would prefer it if you acted like teachers and not the students. (sees DEAN pass her doorway.) Dean, come in here please.

DEAN:

Yes, ma'am, what can I do for you?

LYDIA:

Round up the other grad students and get them in the White Room. And could you find my daughter and tell her I need to see her? She's probably in her dorm room.

DEAN:

Certainly. (he sees the two teachers squaring off.) Everything okay in here?

KRISTIN/KATE:

Fine!

(DEAN leaves before he's pulled into the argument.)

LYDIA:

As for you two, perhaps competition between the two of you will catch on amongst the students. I'll accept your offer Ms. Chen, but I'm going to take it a step further. At the end of the semester your groups will perform for the faculty and student body and the faculty will vote on which performance is the best. That professor will be the one to teach advanced performance in the spring and the other will teach whatever I want them too. Understood?

KRISTIN:

Crystal.

KATE:

Such confidence. This isn't Broadway honey. You're a teacher now. You can't just run away with things don't go the way you want them too.

KRISTIN:

It's so funny that you think you know what you're talking about.

KATE:

Well why don't you tell me?

(performance of "That's Life" from the SMASH soundtrack begins.)

KRISTIN: That's life, that's what people say. You're riding high in April, shot down in May. But I know I'm gonna change their tune. When I'm back, back on top in June.

KATE: Mmmmm, that's life, funny as it seems. Some people get their kicks steppin' on a dream (Kristin). But I just can't let them get me down, no, no. 'Cause this big old world keeps spinnin' around.

(KRISTIN walks out of the office and down the hall to where the rest of the professors have their offices. KATE follows.)

KRISTIN: I've been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet, a pawn and a queen.

KATE: I've been up and down and over and out and, oh, the drama I've seen.

KRISTIN: Each time I find myself flat on my face.

KATE: I pick myself up and get back in the race.

(They are transported to the main stage both wearing CHICAGO-fosse-esque costumes as they sing in front of the whole student body.)

BOTH: That's life

KATE: Oh, I can't deny it.

KRISTIN: I thought of quittin', oh, but my friends just wouldn't buy it.

KATE: But if I thought it wasn't worth a try, oh, I'd just jump right up on that big bird and then I'd fly.

BOTH: I've been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet, a pawn and a queen. I've been up and down and over and out, and, oh, the drama we've seen.

KRISTIN: Each time we find ourselves

KATE: flat on our face

BOTH: We pick ourselves up and get back in the race

(Standing in the doorways of their offices, across the hall from one another, they stare into the other's eyes as they sing.)

KATE: That's life

KRISTIN: That's life

BOTH: Oh, I can't deny it.

KRISTIN: I thought of quittin' but Lydia just won't buy it.

KATE: So sister

KRISTIN: Mother

KATE: Broadway star

KRISTIN: Or wife. I just thank God for the present.

KATE: The present. That's life

(Both KRISTIN and KATE walk into their offices, standing behind their desks singing before sitting down at the end.)

KRISTIN: That's life

KATE: That's life

KRISTIN: That's life

KATE: That's life

BOTH: That's life.

(both sit at desk and stare out the window.)

(SCENE CUT to DEAN exiting the elevator on the dormitory floor. NAYA walks towards him.)

DEAN:

Where are you headed?

NAYA:

I have to meet my freshman. Why am I the only girl you assigned a boy too?

DEAN:

One more boy then girls this year and if any girl can keep a boy in line it's definitely you, Naya. Besides, I helped interview that one and you should love him. He's got a smart mouth just like you do.

NAYA:

I'd tell you to kiss my ass, but you'd like it too much and yours is the one I could bounce a quarter off of anyway.

DEAN:

(winks at NAYA) I'll take that as a compliment. But on a different note do you know if Amber is in her room?

NAYA:

No, her and Rebekah are helping their freshmen get moved in because they both have girls. Now if you'll excuse me I have to go to the smelly ass boys' floor and meet Grant whoever the hell that is.

DEAN:

(walking away) Have fun, Naya.

NAYA:

(sarcastically) Thanks. The new girls are two doors down from Amber and Rebekah's room. I'm sure you remember where Rebekah lives, don't you?

DEAN:

(under his breath) Bitch! (he walks down looking through the doors until he finds the right room. Inside are AMBER and REBEKAH with DIANNA and JENNA. DEAN is about to speak when he makes eye contact with DIANNA and she smiles. He forgets what he is going to say.)

REBEKAH:

(a bit flirtatious). Is there a reason why you are here, Dean?

DEAN:

(ignoring her question.) Are these your new girls?

AMBER:

Yes. (shaking her head at the weirdness between REBEKAH and DEAN.) Dean, this is Jenna Johnson and Dianna Rotundi.

JENNA:

(moves to shake DEAN's hand.) Very nice to meet you, Dean. What's your emphasis?

DEAN:

I'm passed that now. I'm a grad student but my main emphasis was dance and then acting. I'll be assisting in those areas this year too.

DIANNA:

So then you'll basically be one of our teachers then.

REBEKAH:

Oh dear God, you're not a whore are you? Dean you didn't assign me the slutty freshman did you?

DIANNA:

Bitch you don't know what I meant by that.

AMBER:

(interrupting) Dean, did you have a reason for being here because I know it wasn't to step back in the fire with Rebekah.

DEAN:

Very true. I came because you're mom sent me to tell you she needs you to come to her office.

JENNA:

Your mom works here?

REBEKAH:

That's an understatement.

DIANNA:

What does she do? Is she a secretary or something?

REBEKAH:

And that will be the last time you get the chance to ask a question like that.

AMBER:

Why would you automatically assume my mother is a secretary? I'm sure it's not because of any reason that you and your Rodeo Drive-lovin' family would think that's what my family would be good for. For your bigoted information you wouldn't be at the school if it wasn't for my mom (turns to leave.) Come on Dean. You can walk with me. I'm not leaving you in here. That's just asking for trouble.

DEAN:

Yes ma'am. (turns to DIANNA and JENNA.) It was very nice to meet you ladies. (turns to REBEKAH.) Always a pleasure, Rebekah.

REBEKAH:

The pleasure is all yours.

(AMBER and DEAN leave the room.)

DIANNA:

What did I say?

REBEKAH:

Amber's last name is Grant. Figure it out for yourselves. I'll be in my room if you need anything.

DIANNA:

(turning to JENNA.) Grant? So that means that her mother is . . .

JENNA:

The headmaster of the school. Not a great first move, Dianna.

(CUT to the hallway where DEAN and AMBER are getting on the elevator.)

AMBER:

For future reference please don't mention my mom in front of other students. I already have to deal with the fact that the upperclassmen think the only reason I'm here is because of her. I don't need the underclassmen thinking the same thing.

DEAN:

Amber, you're the best vocalist in the entire school and I don't say that because of your mom. I say it because it's the truth. You should believe in that. (elevator doors open.) This is my stop. Just remember the only person keeping you from where you want to be is you. You can't blame your mom for that.

(begin the performance of Tightrope (Glee cast version) by AMBER. The doors to the elevator close and she begins.)

AMBER: Some people talk about you like they know all about you. When you get down they doubt you and when you tipping on the scene, yeah, they talkin' about it. 'Cause they can't tip all on the scene with you talkin' about it. T-t-t-talkin' about it.

(AMBER exits elevator and heads down the staircase to the main level of the building.)

AMBER: When you get elevated they love it or they hate it. You dance up on them haters. Keep getting funky on the scene while they jumpin' round you. They trying to take all your dreams, but you can't allow it.

(AMBER walks into dance studio where a set of female dancers are stretching as she walks in they move around her.)

AMBER: Cause, baby, whether you're high or low. Whether you're high or low. You got to tip on the tightrope. T-t-t-tip on the tightrope. Baby, baby, whether you're high or low. Baby, whether you're high or low. You got to tip on the tightrope. Now let me see you do the tightrope, and I'm still tippin' on it.

(A set of male dancers move into the studio and dance with AMBER.)

AMBER: See I'm not walkin' on it or trying to run around it. This ain't no acrobatics. You either follow or you lead, yeah. I'm talking about you. I'll keep on blaming the machine, yeah, I'm talking about it. T-t-t-talkin' about it. I can't complain about it. I gotta keep my balance, and just keep dancing on it. We getting funky on the scene yeah you know about it. Like a star on the screen watch me tip all on it.

(She moves out into the hallway leaving the dancers behind and dancing independently.)

AMBER: Cause, baby, whether you're high or low. Whether you're high or low. You got to tip on the tightrope. T-t-t-tip on the tightrope. Baby, baby, whether you're high or low. Baby, whether you're high or low. You got to tip on the tightrope. Now let me see you do the tightrope, and I'm still tippin' on it. You've got yo stay on the scene. Yeah, yeah, tightrope. Hey, yeah, yeah.

(AMBERS walks into LYDIA's office.)

AMBER:

You summoned me?

-GLEE-

As another commercial break began, Mia clapped out loud making others turn to wonder why she was so loud.

"That's my sister up there!" she called out. She was so proud of Mercedes.

"Yes, it is, babe, but why don't we sit down and watch the rest of the show," Jacob knew this would work against Mr. Schue's plan to not bring attention to their team's connection to the FAME cast.

Mia sat back down and took Jacob's hand. "Are you liking it?"

"Everyone looks great!" he smiled. "Mercedes sounded amazing and the stories are cool so far. I can't wait to see what they do with Sebastian though."

"I can't wait to see what happens when the twins realize that both want to bone the same guy," Nick changed the subject away from Sebastian.

In front of them, Sue took the opportunity to tease Finn. "How does it feel to watch your girl wanting sexy time from one of your best friends on the big screen?"

"Considering he's interested in the other twin I can't imagine a better person to be her on-screen love interest. Besides I have something much better for her tonight after this is over, and trust me, Sue, she's going to love it a lot."

Finn smirked as he saw Sue blush. Shutting her up and embarrassing her was something he considered quite the accomplishment.

-GLEE-

(NAYA knocks on the open door of GRANT/CHORD's room to find GRANT unpacking boxes shirtless in his jeans.)

NAYA:

(to herself.) I'm in trouble. (out loud.) Are you Grant?

GRANT:

That would be me beautiful. Now what can I do for you?

NAYA:

Keep it in your pants, freshman. I'm your sophomore sponsor. I just came by to introduce myself. I'm Naya and now that you know that I'll go and let you finish unpacking.

GRANT:

There's no need to rush off, Naya. You're the first female visitor to Casa del Speedington.

NAYA:

Speedington?

GRANT:

My last name, Speedman, and my roommates is Covington. Hence the name Speedington.

NAYA:

You shipped your names together?

GRANT:

Hey, a good BroTP is just as important as a guy's OTP. Speaking of which, I'm still looking for mine. Maybe you can help me with that?

(CHORD enters.)

CHORD:

Grant, stop bugging the girl, I could feel your flirtation on the way down the hall making my skin crawl.

NAYA:

I don't even know you and I already like you.

CHORD:

Chord Covington, but I guess you know the last part because of his insistence of shipping everything.

NAYA:

Are you the same way? Shipping yourself with anyone yet?

CHORD:

Actually, now that you mention it . . .

(the door across the hall opens and DARREN and MAXIM walk out seeing the three of them standing there.)

CHORD:

Hey Darren, right? And Maxim? What's up guys?

MAXIM:

(after noticing that DARREN is speechless looking at CHORD again.) We're actually going to this place called Callbacks. You guys want to come?

GRANT:

Actually we'll be there later. Chord is signed up to sing at open mic night.

CHORD:

Which we should probably get ready for (skins tank top off his body) and I need to shower first. I hope you'll excuse me, Naya.

NAYA:

I can take that as my exit. See you later guys. (She exits.)

GRANT:

(to CHORD.) I'm in love. Or in lust. Maybe both. I don't know but Grant Junior likes her a lot. (noticing DARREN staring at CHORD.) I don't think I'm the only one with a crush though.

(CHORD picks up his towel and shower stuff and shakes his head at GRANT to stop talking about it.)

CHORD:

I'll see you guys tonight. Darren, are you okay?

DARREN:

(finally speaking up.) Yeah, I'm okay. I'm excited to hear you sing.

CHORD:

(smiling.) I'll look for you then.

(SCENE CUT – CALLBACKS: DARREN, LEA, ARIA, JACKSON, and MAXIM sitting at a table.)

ARIA:

Lea, you and Darren should sign up to sing. It would be a great way for people at NYADA to get to know you. That's practically all that's here.

LEA:

Really?

JACKSON:

There's a few NYU kids here but it's mainly our people. And my girl's right. You only have one chance to make a first impression.

(DANNY walks in and sits at their table.)

DANNY:

Hey guys. Jackson, Aria, thanks for taking care of Maxim for me.

ARIA:

What was the meeting about?

DANNY:

Ms. Hutson telling us that she's not focusing on just the dance department this year. Evidently there's going to be some kind of competition between her and that new teacher, Ms. Chen.

ARIA:

Ah, something I'm sure we will all be enduring. I knew Kate couldn't handle new blood coming in without making it hell for everyone.

DARREN:

You say that like you don't like her.

JACKSON:

Of all the professors she is the least favorite of most of the student body.

LEA:

Why is that?

DANNY:

She hates teaching but she doesn't have a choice. She was on Broadway once upon a time but she screwed it up in hopes of a television career and they wouldn't take her back. Mrs. Grant took her back cause she was a student here once upon a time and Mrs. Grant feels responsible for her.

DARREN:

So she's a bad teacher.

DANNY:

No, she's a great teacher. She's just a bad person.

MAXIM:

She's hot though. I could go for a teacher/student relationship with her.

JACKSON:

You wish. She would break you in half little man. The best thing you can do if you have her is to keep your head down, do your work, and pray she doesn't pick you as the freshman to use as a way to scare everyone else.

MAXIM:

Who did she do that with in your class?

DANNY:

His name is Isaac. He quit at Christmas. He couldn't take her tactics.

LEA:

And she does that to someone every year?

ARIA:

Yes, and they don't usually lastr, but look there's a lot of good here too. Let's not focus on the bad stuff.

MAXIM:

Yeah, I mean you and Jackson found each other and enjoy your time together (he smirks.) That's a good thing.

JACKSON:

True. (staring at DARREN.) And someone has already found someone to crush on. Haven't you, Darren?

(DARREN looks up surprised JACKSON would even bring CHORD up in conversation.)

LEA:

What? Why didn't you tell me? Who is he?

ARIA:

Give him a break, Lea. It's not like you told him about your crush.

DARREN:

You found a boy too? Who is he? (guitar music plays from the stage).

ARIA:

There he is (points to the stage.)

JACKSON:

Yeah, Darren there's your boy.

(Both LEA and DARREN turn to see CHORD on stage playing his guitar along with a few other musicians)

LEA/DARREN:

That's him. (PAUSE.) That's who?

(They begin to realize what this means as CHORD sings.)

(Performance of "Some Kind of Beautiful" by Tyler Ward)

CHORD: Driving home in the rain, seven miles from lover's lane. Got her taste on my lips still feel her on my fingertips, and now she makes me feel like I'll never be alone again 'cause I've never had a love like this.

(The others at the table see how LEA and DARREN both look at CHORD and realize that this could either be entertaining to watch or a bad idea.)

CHORD: Her eyes, that smile can make the young boys stay awhile. I took a picture with my memory so I can fall asleep with you next to me all the time. She makes me feel like I'll never be alone again 'cause I've never known love like this.

(DARREN looks over to see how LEA stares at CHORD. He realizes how much she likes him.)

CHORD: And you are some kind of beautiful. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. And you are some kind of beautiful.

(DARREN turns back and his heart melts as he sees CHORD looking at him. LEA turns to see that her brother is also in love with the same guy as she is.)

CHORD: We're alone. I am safe. All my fears fades away. I am home in your gaze. Will you stay? Will you stay? And now she makes me feel like I'll never be alone again 'cause I've never known love like this. And you are some kind of beautiful. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. And you are some kind of beautiful.

(GRANT turns from his table where he is sitting and sees the twins staring at his best friend, specifically how they look at CHORD. He can't help but mischievously grin when he realizes what could be happening.)

CHORD: I fall asleep with you next to me. Memorize the sound of your heartbeat. It's beating loud from this point of view. I can't believe that you're near me. You took all that I'm fearing and turned all my skies to blue.

(CHORD sees both LEA and DARREN looking at him and suddenly the realization of what is going on hits him while he's singing. He attempts to not let it affect him, but he doesn't know how he feels about it.)

CHORD: And you are some kind of beautiful. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. And you are some kind of beautiful. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody. Gotta take a chance running after somebody.

(CHORD acknowledges the applause but his heart races as he realizes that the two people he'd flirted with are actually siblings.)

-GLEE-

As the show went to commercial, everyone watched as the first one let the viewing audience knowthat they could now download the latest Sam Evans single they'd just watched on iTunes. Blaine looked down from the balcony and saw the majority of students pulling out their phones and began to download it.

"Someone is going to have another #1 single," he mentioned leaning over to kiss his cheek.

"It was a great performance, Sam," Mercedes added from behind him. The three of them sat in a box with Rachel, Max, and Claire.

"Thanks," he turned to her and smiled. He looked over the edge with Rachel and Blaine. "It looks like they are really loving it."

"Look at Stevie, he's waving up at us," Blaine pointed.

When they waved down all of New Directions waved back up at them.

"Guys there's only two more segments we should get downstairs for the live finale," Claire reminded them. "I'll go first and then we will sneak downstairs one at a time."

Rachel saw Finn staring up at her and smiled. He held up his phone and pointed it to so she would understand. She pulled out her phone and saw that he'd sent her a message.

FINN: Meet me in the lobby on the staircase. There is something we need to talk about.

Rachel turned to Blaine. "I'm going to talk to Finn really quick and I'll meet you backstage."

"You can't be late. You start the song," he reminded her.

"I know. I know. But I want to see him. I'll be back there before you know it," she promised.

She moved towards the door and Sam leaned over to his fiancé. "Is it happening?"

"Yeah I think it is," Blaine reached for Sam's hand and they headed out the door and towards the stage.

-GLEE-

Rachel walked out the doors on the second level of the lobby and found Finn standing on the ground level looking up at her. They both walked towards the other and met halfway on the landing. There weren't many people in the lobby to notice them.

"Sorry for taking you away during the middle of the premiere, I just didn't know if we'd have the chance to see each other later. Hopefully we'll make it to the top ten and I know you have parties to attend and stuff," Finn began.

"It's totally okay. The next scene is a classroom scene with all of us and April gives us an assignment we sing an 80's ballad. I think you were even on set that day and saw it," Rachel spoke nervously wondering what was up. "I just have to be back before the finale. We have something special planned. It's the scene where she challenges the new freshmen to show the upperclassmen what they've got and when the performance happens we're going to do it live on stage."

"Well then I guess we need to get to it then," Finn smiled but she could tell that he was full of nervous energy as well. "Do you still love me, Rachel?"

"What kind of a question is that? Of course I do, Finn, you're the love of my life. I couldn't make this journey without you," Rachel spoke honestly.

"Well then I think it's about time we start our happy ending," he got down on one knee and they both could hear people below them speaking and pointing towards them. "We tried this once and it was way too soon, but now we're both ready, Rachel. I love you. You're the only one in the world that I want to write my story and sing my songs with," he pulled out a box from Tiffany's and opened it. Rachel's breath stopped as the diamond sparkled in her eyes. "Rachel Barbra Berry, I need you to make me the man I was always meant to be and help me write our story together. Will you marry me?"

"Yes! A thousand times yes!" she jumped up and down and the crowd gathered below applauded. Finn placed the ring on her finger and stood wrapping her in his arms and kissing her for the first time as his fiancée (at least for real this time).

It was then they heard screaming and clapping above them. They turned to see Blaine, Sam, Santana, Quinn, Tina, Mike, Mercedes, and Sebastian all standing there sharing in their excitement. Blaine could see it in Rachel's eyes. She'd never before been this happy not even when she won her Tony Award. This was the moment she'd been waiting for since leaving for New York at the end of the senior year and now he knew that his best friend would get the happy ending she wasn't sure she would ever get.

-GLEE-

Finn walked in during the next commercial break and sat back down next to Mr. Schuester.

"So?" Will wanted to know what happened.

Finn blushed. "She said yes."

Will leaned over and gave Finn a hug so happy that Finn and Rachel finally made it official.

"I want you to be my best man, Mr. Schue. I wouldn't be here today doing what I love and marrying the girl I love more than life itself if it weren't for you," Finn asked.

"It would be my honor," Will beamed.

"So what did I miss?"

"April's character challenged the new kids to prove to the upperclassmen what they can do. Rachel and Blaine's characters sang Suddenly Seymour from Little Shop in front of the other freshmen and of course they made it seem like they had a plan," Will explained before they saw the commercials end. "Looks like it's starting back."

-GLEE-

(The Freshmen stand back stage in the auditorium worried about the fact that all the seats are filled with their fellow students all waiting to see what they have to offer and hoping they will fail. APRIL stands backstage with them.)

CHORD:

(walking up to LEA.) Are you nervous?

LEA:

Just a little. I don't want to screw it up for everybody.

CHORD:

Not possible. Your voice is one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard. You're going to blow them away. (He smiles. Turns around and sees DARREN standing there. His smile continues.) Yours too. Knock 'em dead, Darren.

DARREN:

Thanks.

DIANNA:

You know they are just sitting out there waiting to see us fall apart.

GRANT:

Maybe they are but we're not going to do that.

JENNA:

How can you be so sure?

MAXIM:

'Cause we're badass!

KRISTIN:

Yeah, you are. (everyone stops and turns to her.) I have a confession to make. When I saw that Ms. Hutson would be getting her way and we'd be splitting I conned her into giving me this group. I've seen your performance auditions, I've read your bios and I know exactly what you are capable of doing. This performance that you are about to give will set the stage for the next four years of your life here at NYADA. Look around at the others back here with you. Yes, these people are your competition but they're also your life's blood. No star makes it on Broadway or in Hollywood without the rest of their cast and crew. Never forget that. (Pause.) My teaching style may be different. I might not push competition as much as collaboration, but I can promise you this. Stick with me for the next four years and I will get you exactly where you want to go and that all starts now. This is your first audience and this is the first performance of your professional career so make it a memorable one.

(KRISTIN walks to the curtain and nods to LYDIA waiting behind the podium and then walked across to where the band sat on the opposite side of the stage.

CHORD:

You heard her guys. Let's do this!

-GLEE-

As the audience listened to the character of Lydia Grant introduce the Freshmen class to NYADA and the curtains on that stage opened, the silhouette of the Lea character appeared on the screen. On the stage in Radio City Music Hall the music actually started. Will turned to Finn wondering if he knew what song ended the pilot.

"They wanted it to be a surprise for you," Finn grinned as all of New Directions looked to their directors with excitement.

Rachel appeared upstage and the same performance that happened on the screen during the pilot also happened live on the stage at Radio City in front of a live audience.

(Don't Stop Believin' – From Glee 100th episode)

(Performed by the cast of FAME)

RACHEL: Just a small town girl living in a lonely world. She took the midnight train going anywhere.

Blaine walked out from the stage right curtain.

BLAINE: Just a city boy born and raised in South Detroit. He took the midnight train going anywhere.

During the instrumental section the other actors playing freshmen, Quinn, Max, Tina, Sebastian, and Sam entered the stage. Just like on the screen, Sam walked up and put his arms around Blaine and Rachel.

SAM: A singer in a smoky room, a smell of wine and cheap perfume.

Sam/Rachel: For a smile that can share the night. It goes on and on and on and on.

As Sam, Rachel, and Blaine continued the 1st verse and the others danced around them, the audience looked to the screen where the other characters were watching the performance.

ARIA:

Guys, they're good. They're really good and we're teaming with them this semester.

JACKSON:

So what are you saying?

ARIA:

I'm saying why try to beat them when you can join them.

On stage at Radio City, as the characters on screen got up from their seats and joined the freshmen on stage, Lucy, Colton, Claire, Santana, Mike, Mercedes, and Keahu joined their cast mates on stage and everyone began dancing together as Sebastian took the lead.

SEBASTIAN: Working hard to get my fill. Everybody wants a thrill

Sebastian/Sam: Paying anything to roll the dice just one more time.

TINA: Some will win

Tina/Max: Some will lose. Some were born to sing the blues and now the movie never ends. It goes on and on and on and on.

ALL: Strangers, waiting. Up and down the boulevard. Their shadows searching in the night. Streetlight, people, living just to find emotion. Hiding somewhere in the night

As the performance continued, Blake saw the screen change. The pilot was now on the top half of the screen but the bottom half had a very different message:

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TOP TEN CHOIRS . . .

"Mr Schue! Look! They're announcing on the screen!" Blake yelled over to his teacher.

The first choir on the other side of the auditorium jumped up screaming when they saw their names.

The cast on stage knew that the names would be announced at the end of their performance, but they didn't expect it to be that loud, but the first choir was nothing.

The second choir announced was New Directions.

The kids jumped up and started hugging each other. On stage, the alumni hugged each other and pumped fists in the air.

Will looked to the stage and made eye contact with his son. Sam pointed to his Dad and smiled. Once again, New Directions would go for the title, but at the same time, Will was watching many of his original kids fulfill a dream. He'd never been more proud.

Now it was time to get back to business and get his kids to rehearsal and prepared for the final round.

He had a title to win.