How do you mold to the stage?
Do you plant your feet or shuffle yourself silly?
Do you see the audience as a large monster ready to devour you?
Do you see the audience as many or one?
How does the spotlight feel on your face?
Do you sweat under it? Or do you shy away?
Are you empowered by the sweat soaking through your costume shirt?
Could it be proof of all you’ve poured in?
Could it be the release of a long comprehension?
When you exit the stage, are you on pause or still performing?
Are you dancing in the wings with your character?
Are you a part of the story or waiting to reenter?
How do you navigate the shadow world of backstage?
With your ears off?
With your fingers tapping?
Are you thinking of your mother and the missed calls stacking?
Do you question your routine?
Can you guess what comes next?
And where are you gazing?
Are you seeing the blank wall?
Are you counting the empty seats?
When the air runs out, are you breathing for one person or two?