A Chance To Shine

• Phoebe Santow, Grade 4
• Short Story
• 2012

As I stood in the line outside the audition room, sweat trickled down my forehead and drenched my leotard. I fingered my number anxiously, hoping it would bring me success and pride. I heard the faint music of "Swan Lake" in the background, and the tippety-tap of dance shoes on wooden floor, but all I could focus on was my audition. Time ticked by, minutes took years, yet I waited in my line patiently, focusing on what was ahead of me.

"Number 25!" As I heard my number, my heart beat so hard I was sure everybody could hear it. I didn't have time to think as I was bustled along, through a never ending maze of pink tutus and satin pointe shoes. I was led to a tall oak door, and from there I was on my own. My legs shook like jelly as I turned the brass door handle and entered the room. Inside the room a stern looking elderly lady sat at a polished pine desk, her spectacles sitting firmly at the end of her nose. "You may begin when you're ready." she said, pointing to the corner of the room.

I walked slowly to where I was directed, inhaling the strong smell of wooden floorboards. This is your chance to shine, I told myself, nervousness and worry slowly fading into the background. I took my position, toes pointed and posture straight, ready to dance. As the beautiful music started, I was swept away in a whirlwind of grace, every movement I made fitted perfectly in time with the lovely music. My toes pointed and my arms outstretched, I leapt and pirouetted, twirled and jumped, time flying at each step I made. Freedom and joy took over, and as I danced to the calm, wonderful music I felt peace wash over me like a tide.

Before I knew it, my audition was over. It was like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders, and as I skipped out of the audition room I felt as light as a feather. I bounded over to mum's car, a wide smile lighting up my face. She waved and pulled the window down. "How did it go?" she asked me. "Great!" I replied, grinning at her happily.

As our car drove away from the audition hall car park, I felt so relieved and free I could sing.