2020.04.18: Unplugged Concert

Unplugged Concert
The Crown Museum hosts an Unplugged Concert by Lirva Veenal, with donations accepted for charities.
IC Date	April 18th, 2020
Players	Amelie, Angelica, Bellamy, Danny, DeadPixel, Gabriel de la Vega, Heathen, Imogen_Cat, Joel, Jolene, Katie, Katrina, Lin, Madeline, Martha, Mikael, Montegue, Naozumi, Nino, Oleksiy, Paige, Paris, River, Shiori, Topeka, Crown_Museum
Location	The Crown Museum
Spheres	Vampire Camarilla Ghoul Mortal Mortal+ Mage

Shiori nods to Oleksiy, and then looks to more people coming in, "Hello everyone. I'm glad you all could come out."

Amelie is here, but mostly back and forth with the stagehands that are in all black. She waves when she can to those she knows, but it is obvious she is helping with the talent tonight.

Oleksiy smiles as he sees Amelie and gives her a polite nod, but as she is busy, he doesn't try to interrupt her. Instead he finds a seat and stops before it, turning to look around the room, taking it in, and the people arriving with a long gaze.

Katrina wanders into the theatre and takes a moment to get her bearings. She nudges Jolene lightly and then moves to go make herself useful, approaching Amelie she settles into stride with her, "Anything you need before this starts? Anything you want before I start meeting people."

Shiori offers people a smile and a, "Welcome. We hope you enjoy the show tonight."

Amelie shakes her head to Katrina, "I think we are ready to go. Once people are more in and seated, you should kick it off. Is Jolene ready to speak about the charities?" She speaks loudly enough for Katrina to hear her, but they are not in with the rest of the crowd.

Oleksiy is standing at the front row, in front of his seat, but turned looking up at the entrance doors, watching the people that come in with an idle , thoughtful expression.

Joel stays in the back of the house, drink in hand, still content to be a nearly silent observer. He raises his drink from the refreshment table in a little salute at Shiori's words, but finds a spot up around row W or X to sprawl out in, kicking sneakered feet on row V or W in turn. Sip.

Katrina nods looking back over the place, "I'll do what I can." she replies, "Jolene is ready as well yes." She moves her attention and her footsteps towards the stage to look at the microphone and the room in front of it.

Jolene steps up to the podium in a beautiful blue and gold Eric dress with cap sleeves, and a galaxy themed print gown. "For those of you, who do not know me, my name is Dr Jolene Addison, Founder of On Wings of Angel's Foundation. Tonight though, I really want to give credit for arranging this event to my colleagues and friends, family all, Amelie Renoir and Shiori Reinhart and the continued support of the Crown Museum, Madeline Blanchard, as well as our business partners around town, who have stepped up on numerous occasions to make sure we are fed, Mikael Rousseau of Vieux Carre and Bourbon and Bedlam, and Our wonderful Master of Ceremonies, Katrina Santos from Royal Cajun Cabaret! As you may have seen the donation table on your way in, tonight's Proceeds are going to support STOMP Out Bullying & California for the Arts!

"I want to take just a moment to remind everyone here that Bullying is a -Deliberate Act- of trying to tear someone down, to make them feel upset, scared or ashamed. And it comes in many forms from Physical, Verbal, Psychological, and Cyber bullying, and we cannot become complacent to these acts, when we see it. We should stand up and remind others, it is NOT okay. It is also important as adults to remember, we are living, breathing examples to our children, and they do not fall far from the tree. If you are acting poorly, how can you expect your children to do any better. LEAD by Example, and remind them, if they do not like being torn down, why should ANY others? Everyone deserves to Feel Safe from Bullying!"

"Lastly," she offers, "Performing Arts, The California for the Arts is the ONLY comprehensive multidisciplinary organization focused on advancing and building public awareness of the value and impact of arts, culture and creativity across California. With over 15,000 Active Subscribers and hundreds of members who REPRESENT thousands of artists and arts and cultural organization, taking on opportunities with the backing of those supporters, that one single organization could not accomplish on its own! It is especially relevant in these challenging times, that we uplift the humanity that connects us all, through the arts. Everyone thrives when we have an outlet for our creativity! Whether that is through song, dance, painting, acting, sculpting, writing, or letting our voices be heard online. With that being said, I really hope that you enjoy the show tonight! And please welcome to the stage our Master of Ceremonies, Katrina Santos of the Royal Cajun Cabaret!" She smiles warmly and steps away to let Katrina take over.

Mikael finishes off his drink before he finds a seat and settles down as Jolene starts speaking.

Martha slip in and stays near the doors to see what all is going on with the Show.

Bellamy walks into the theater and begins a slow trek down the aisle. He seems rather determined to find a spot near the back of the theater, passing by a number of empty rows before settling into one. Instead of finding a row all to himself, or one occupied by the people he knows, Bellamy moves into row W (or X) and settles into a seat next to Joel. "Good evening," he greets the stranger, gravel in his voice.

Oleksiy turns as Jolene begins to speak, having watched people arrive, and then settles in to listen, crossing his legs at the knee and relaxing back in his seat comfortably, sitting up in the front.

Imogen hurries to find and join Katie and Topeka, holding aloft a carton of Milk Duds and a container full of soda as she inevitably does the squeeze-through-seating-and-apologize dance along the way.

Just in time, it seems, Katie makes her way into the theatre hand in hand with Topeka, Imogen beside her so they don't lose each other. "We needs a seat.. where did Alice go?", she whispers softly. Heading down the steps she stands on tiptoe trying to spot Pixel, "Oh! There she is!", waving the two girls along with her as they squeeze through and find a space near Pixel. "Hi!", she whispers to the woman, raising a hand to wiggle the fingers in greeting.

Joel claps at Jolene's speech along with the rest of the crowd, maybe a touch too slowly for genuineness, but not /too/ slowly that it stands out. His smattering of applause is cut off, though, by Bellamy's approach. A sharp flash of teeth at the greeting. "Evening. You like sitting at the back of the class too? It's where all the cool kids sit." He pauses a moment, wondering wryly, "Is that bullying?" His voice is quiet, though, jokes pitched mildly and not meant to interrupt the goings-on.

Topeka walks in, fingers laced with Katie's as she's being lead to DeadPixel's direction, with Imogen nearby. Topeka's sea-green and blue hair is done up in pigtails. She's wearing a white t-shirt that has the cover of famed stage hypnotist and magician Peter Reveen's book 'The Super conscious World' but Robb Wells' face is pasted over Peter's. Completing her attire is a red plaid skirt, white crew socks pulled up to the middle of her shins, black platform boots on her feet and a little white purse over her right shoulder.

Topeka snickers over at DeadPixel, commenting, "Nice shirt there."

Shiori remains near the back for the moment, seeming pleased as the theater starts filling. She listens to Jolene talk of the charities, and applauds. She remains out of the way to let people settle.

Martha looks about missed the speech but claps any way because it is Jolene up there.

DeadPixel enters the space, not paying much attention, but excited for the show. Then all the sudden she sees that the children and only the children are getting swag bags. This is /so/ unfair, they're probably too young to have been there throughout Veenal Lirva's career. It's DeadPixel who grew up listening to such classics as 'SkateGui'. Well, a short woman in dark clothes is pretty inconspicuous, plus this is basically how she makes a living. She'll find one, just gotta figure this out. Hmmm, too much security at the actual swag station. Then DeadPixel spots an unattended swag bag on a table. It /might/ belong to someone, but no security guard is going to not give a new bag to a sad child. DeadPixel quickly walks by the bag, and the bag disappears right as she disappears into the crowd. (OOC: Roll to me if you want to catch this happening, will need 6+ successes or some power.)

Imogen winces as Joel and the crowd seem to be clapping, ostensibly about some sort of speech. Quietly, she leans over to murmur with Topeka, DeadPixel, and Katie, "seems like we might have missed something?" A beat, extending her chocolate treat, "Milk Duds?"

Bellamy smirks, nodding his head a couple of times. "It might be bullying, yeah," he replies. "You should probably pay attention to the presentation." Bellamy looks Joel over with some amount of scrutiny. There's a nod, seemingly to himself, before he leans forward and mutters something.

Never having been to one of these before, Katie settles into the seat and looks all around her, at the other many faces in the crowd before turning her attention to Imogen and Topeka. "I heard somethin' when I walked in, but I dunno what it was..", she replies softly to the two, ".. I caught somethin' about performin' arts.", she shrugs. The offer from Imogen gets a smile, "Ooh! Yes please.", dipping her fingers in for a chocolate, then she looks at Topeka and her smile brightens, the girl leaning closer to whisper something softly.

Oleksiy doesn't clap nor say anything, but his attention is on the stage, other than an occasional glance back over the crowd. He smiles just a little to himself though, and otherwise doesn't move out of his seat

Bellamy chuckles at something Joel says. He puts two hands up, showing his palms before muttering a reply.

Katrina watches Jolene with a smile. Listening to her do her presentation and probably still considering what she will be saying. No time like the present, Jolene sets her up nicely so Katrina shrugs a little and then moves towards the microphone. A good thing she isn't shy. She takes the microphone to hand, moving it to make it easier for her to speak.

"I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for making their way out here tonight. I'm sure I speak for everyone involved when I say we are very glad you're here." She looks over the room and smirks a little, "Enough about that though, I'm sure you are all here for the show so please give a warm Prospect welcome to Lirva Veenal." She takes a few steps to the side and away as the act takes the stage.

Paige arrives with Lin, arm in arm, though she is still carrying her violin case in her off hand, chatting lowly with the Asian woman as she heads for reserved seating.

Heathen mills about, watching the stage and listening to the presentation.

Joel's shoulders square slightly at whatever Bellamy murmurs. His smile thins out a little, and he mutters something to the slightly older fellow, leaning forward a little as if to pay attention. It's a toss-up whether he's paying attention to the speech at the moment, though. After the response, he moves to take a sip of his drink, running a hand over his lips, and responding, "Sure," to Bellamy's second murmur. The concert's on, though, and he leans back to watch, feet still kicked up on the back of the seat in front of him.

Lirva Veenal walks out on the stage, dressed rather casual, with a black tank top and a loosely tied men's tie, and black jeans with boots. She carries a water bottle in one hand, her blonde hair dyed with pink and blue streaks, a big smile on her pale face. Once she sits down on a stool on the stage, she is joined by a blonde haired man with a guitar. She takes the microphone with a hand and leans it closer to her. "Heeellllloooo Prospect! Welcome to the Crown Museum! We are happy to be here and playing for you tonight and supporting some great charities as well." She makes wiggly finger waves to the kids in front. "Let's get to the music, what you say Evan?" She looks to the guitarist, calling him by name.

Martha nods to Paige as she walks in nothing more or less. There is a slight look over her companion, but nothing more.

Mikael glances around as he waits for the start of the show, recognizing a few people. He gives each a smile and a wave of his hand. But then the show starts before he can finish and his attention turns back to the stage.

Topeka sits, of course, next to Katie and leans in when she tries to whisper to her. She closes her eyes and touches her tongue to her upper lip and nods faintly. She replies in a voice just as soft, "You too." She, with her free hand, gives Katie a pat on her knee. Pat-pat. She then leans back comfortably in her seat. "Can't wait for the show to start."

After disappearing into the crowd, DeadPixel reemerges climbing into a seat next to Topeka, Katie, and Imogen. "DeadPixel," she mutters to Imogen, but given that it barely seems like a name, it might be difficult to understand just what it is she said. Then a quick "thanks" to Topeka from an earlier comment that seemed to go unnoticed. As she sits in her seat, she occasionally leans over to tap a nearby child. When they look, she gives them a sweet smile, hands them one of the items from the pilfered swag bag, and then raises a finger to her lips swearing them to silence. Some sort of punk rock Robin Hood? Hardly. It's just that she only wants certain items from the bag, those are very much hers. After giving out about half the swag bag, her eyes light up as Lirva Veenal walks on stage. She reaches over and grabs the hands of those sitting next to her sharing the excitement. Topeka is one of these people. The other? That's a stranger. Oops. DeadPixel gives him a big sheepish toothy grin as she lets go and goes to rummage through her messenger bag and watch the concert.

The introduction from Katrina has Katie sitting up with excitement, the show's about to begin, clapping eagerly and then gently nudging Topeka beside her, pointing at the woman who's walked onto stage, "Ohmygod, I was playin' her this mornin'!", she says to Topeka, who probably understands it. Her applause grows louder.

The young teen with Paige snaps out a fan with practiced ease and brings it up to her face so only her eyes are seen as Lin leans in to whisper with Paige.

Imogen chuckles softly, "I'm just lucky I managed to get in on such hugely short notice. I bet it was some kind of intro speech. You know, one of those, 'welcome to the show, turn off all your phones' kind of things.'" Once her Milk Duds have been properly shared, she enjoys some for herself, giving her poor empty belly something to mull over for a while. Then, she sits back to enjoy the show, getting a chance to clap along with the crowd this time when Katrina speaks, doing her best to quiet down a touch as Lirva appears on stage. She has offer up her own name, however, when DeadPixel arrives, smiling, "Imogen." A confused glance to Katie, "playing her?"

Jolene smiles warmly at Katrina and gently squeezes her hand once she comes off the stage and motions to the back of the hall, to let her know that is where she will be as she walks around the back edge of the theatre so she doesn't disturb the performance tonight, and can get a better view of the theatre without the stage lights in her eyes.

Naozumi wanders in late, quietly making his way into the theatre to take a seat.

River makes her way into the theater with a small pack over her shoulder as she looks around humming slightly to herself as she walks bouncing slightly with each step.

Leaning over, Katie quietly says to Imogen, "Her music.. on the phone..", she nods, answering that question. Noticing Pixel has finally found her way over, and with sweets no less, she leans past Topeka with her hand out, "Me me.. please?", offering Pixel a cute smile; how can she deny that cuteness.

The guitarist nods and starts in on the song, which is a big hit of hers from her first album release. Some in the crowd have their arms raised already, and Lirva is already moving in her seat, ready to rock out with the fun song. Her arms raised and moving back and forth with those cheering until she starts to sing!

"He was a boy. She was a girl. Can I make it anymore obvious?

He was a punk. She did ballet. What more can I say?

He wanted her. She'd never tell. Secretly she wanted him as well.

And all of her friends stuck up their nose.

They had a problem with his baggy clothes.

He was a skater boy. She said, "See ya later, boy."

He wasn't good enough for her.

She had a pretty face but her head was up in space.

She needed to come back down to earth.

And the show starts indeed! Topeka smiles at how happy Katie is looking. It's infectious! DeadPixel takes Topeka's hand while Topeka's other hand tries to take Katie's once more, looking at Katie and then motioning with her head towards DeadPixel, like she wants her to see that apparently there's going to be a chain of hand-holding!

Katrina gives Jolene a wink and nod, then moves back as well, though she stays more near the stage in case she is needed. The guitar player starts and she nods approvingly. The song is familiar, but her expression makes it clear it takes a second to catch on to what it is."

Oleksiy seems content to only occasionally look over his shoulder to the crowd. and takes a moment while listening to the music as it begins.

Gabriel enters the theater, looking around curiously as he moves through the room. Hands clasped behind his back.

Shiori remains in the back, though now that the show has started, her attention is on the stage, and watching the crowd gathered. She's smiling. After a moment she moves over to a stool she put in the back to use and perches herself there, settling in to watch the show too.

Oh no, they're playing, no sweets for her. Katie quickly turns her attention to Lirva as she starts to sing, noticing the song straight away, "This is the one I was playin'.", she tells Imogen, swaying in her seat to the song. The hand searching gets noticed and she quickly takes Topeka's in hers, then glances down at Pixel to see what she's doing. A hand holding chain, huh. Katie reaches over and takes Imogen's hand too, just how far can this chain stretch?

Naozumi listens to the musicians quietly, watching their hands and voices work their craft.

Once the show starts, DeadPixel begins rummaging quietly through her bag. Thread, a sewing needle, scissors, and of course some fabric. This is all second nature to her, so while her hands are busy deconstructing and reconstructing clothing, DeadPixel keeps her full attention on the performance. Occasionally she'll glance to those she's sitting with and give a big happy grin.

The riffs on the guitar pumping the energy into the next verse, Lirva's hair tossing back and forth in between as well.

Five years from now, she sits at home feeding the baby. She's all alone.

She turns on TV and guess who she sees? Skater boy rockin' up MTV.

She calls up her friends. They already know.

And they've all got tickets to see his show.

She tags along, Stands in the crowd,

Looks up at the man that she turned down.

He was a skater boy. She said, "See ya later, boy."

He wasn't good enough for her.

Now he's a superstar. Slammin' on his guitar

Does your pretty face see what he's worth?

He was a skater boy. She said, "See ya later, boy."

He wasn't good enough for her.

Now he's a superstar. Slammin' on his guitar

Does your pretty face see what he's worth?

Bobbing her head with the music while every so often bringing her silk folding fan to cover her face between little snippets of conversation as Lin conspires with Paige while enjoying the music.

Madeline clearly doesn't know the song but it is catchy and she smiles, tapping her foot to the beat where she stands by the door

Paige sits with Lin, her eyes on the stage, it isn't stopping her from chatting while the music plays.

River smiles as she sees Mikael and heathen and makes her way over to give each a one arm hug and a kiss on the cheek as she smiles warmly "Mikael, Heathen! How are you both doing?"

Joel and Bellamy are still murmuring to one another. The few folks seated behind row W-or-X will see the brief, jarring illumination of a phone screen, although Joel's quick to cup a hand around it to cut down on the glare and turn the brightness down as he passes it to Bellamy, adding something quietly to the other man as he listens to the music.

Ahh that's the one. Katrina smile more and starts to mouth the words with the singer. Mostly just the chorus, but it's something. Her right hand rests against her side and whether she realizes it or not her index finger taps the beat as the song goes on.

Gabriel is moving through the room slowly, his head bobbing a bit. He doesn't look like someone who would enjoy this sort of music, but he seems to be all the same.

Imogen tilts up her head in recognition, "oh, on the phone. Gotcha." She grins at this, then giggles lightly as the song commences and she almost immediately recognizes the lyrics. She even mouths a few of the words, becoming absorbed in the energy of the crowd and the power of Lirva's voice. So much so that she doesn't notice her hand has been taken until it's clasped in Katie's own. After a moment of surprise, glancing down, she hesitates, squeezes, then returns to enjoying the music.

Martha is watching and listening from where she is standing in the back.

Heathen moves toward the door, to stand beside Madeline, tipping his hat in greeting and leaning on the wall beside her

Shiori glances over at Madeline, and if the taller woman looks her way, she gives her a smile and tips her head toward the crowd and performance. Her gaze returns to the show and audience.

Jolene smiles and taps her toes, to the song as she listens to the words and it makes her smile, swaying with the energy of the crowd this evening, though the artist is not one she was formerly truly familiar with the song is poetic in its outcome and she likes it, a warm smile on her soft features.

Slowing down the beat, Lirva sings the bridge with just extended chords from the guitarist at first, but speeds up quickly to finish out the song with lots of energy.

Sorry, girl, but you missed out. Well, tough luck, that boy's mine now.

We are more than just good friends. This is how the story ends.

See the man that boy could be. There is more than meets the eye,

I see the soul that is inside.

He's just a boy, and I'm just a girl.

Can I make it anymore obvious? We are in love.

Haven't you heard how we rock each other's world?

I'm with the skater boy. I said, "See ya later, boy."

I'll be backstage after the show.

I'll be at the studio singing the song we wrote.

About a girl you used to know.

I'm with the skater boy. I said, "See ya later, boy."

I'll be backstage after the show.

I'll be at the studio singing the song we wrote

About a girl you used to know.

The song ends and the crowd is cheering!

Bellamy takes Joel's smart phone and shrugs his shoulders. He taps his fingers on the screen a few times, scrolls here, swipes there, and so on. Once the project is complete, he turns the phone back over to Joel.

Naozumi applauds, nodding towards the stage with a smile.

Madeline applauds with a bright smile as the song ends, clearly pleased with how everything is going

Martha is near the back standing more people watching than anything else, there are some smiles to people she knows but that is about it.

Amelie is off behind the stage, right at the curtain. She is rocking out with the song and cheering at the end!

Oleksiy smiles and rises to applaud the performance, his focus having remained , mostly , on the music. He smiles broadly as he approves of the music. His deep Eastern European accent is clearly heard offering "Bravo, Bravissimo" when the song ends. He seems quite pleased with the music.

Jolene joins in the applause as the first song ends and joins the crowds cheering, getting caught up in the mood and enjoying the evening from the back of the theatre. Somehow in the span on one song, becoming a fan of the artist.

Gabriel pauses his moving around to applaud as well.

When the song comes to an end, Katie drops all held hands and hops to her feet, applauding and smiling happily to herself. "Ohmygod, I've /so/ gotta take singing lessons..", she says quietly to nobody in particular. Applauding until it starts to fade, she sits herself back down, puffing out a happy breath.

Bellamy claps his hands together once the song ends. He glances over at Joel, having just returned his smart phone to him.

Katrina claps as the song ends as well. Her eyes sweep the place, a moment of amusement when she sees Amelie. She doesn't look that way long, but rather the club manager in her assessing the crowds out of sheer habit if nothing else.

Martha claps with another look about the place, and seeing who all is about and where.

Lin pulls out her cell phone from where she has it concealed once the music stops. Don't want to drop it in a crowd dancing. Thumb tapping something before secreting it away again.

Joel studies Bellamy for a long moment at that phone pass, missing the applause. He grins a little edgily at the other man, asking him a quiet question that's lost in the din of the crowd.

Imogen cheers with the rest of the crowd, waving her free hand up in the air and smiling madly. Then Katie actually stands up, so she does the same. She remains up even as most of the audience gets settled again. Realizing this fact, she blushes and hurriedly finds her way to her seat again.

Mikael had listened attentively, appreciating the performance. He applauds with a bright smile on his face.

Topeka stands up, hands parting from both Katie and DeadPixel to clap along with Katie. "You really should!" She responds to Katie. "You have a wonderful voice." She takes her seat once more.

After the cheering of the crowd, the stage hands setup a couple of more stools, and some additional musicians come out to join in. After the cheering subsides, Lirva jumps right into her next song, another fun one that has her almost bouncing in her seat.

Hey! Hey! You! You! I don't like your girlfriend!
No way! No way! I think you need a new one.
Hey! Hey! You! You! I could be your girlfriend.
Hey! Hey! You! You! I know that you like me.
No way! No way! You know it's not a secret.
Hey! Hey! You! You! I want to be your girlfriend.

Obviously the kids are getting into it and bouncing along with the beat just as much as the musicians are having a good time. There is laughter in the audience, and because there are kids there, Lirva does take out the swear words!

Having finished her crafting, DeadPixel briefly looks at her newly collaged punk hoodie made from all the pilfered fabrics in the swag bag. She smiles, quite pleased with herself as she slips the handcrafted hoodie on over the handmade t-shirt -- well, everything she's wearing is handcrafted, those two are just handcrafted and about Lirva Veenal. With the new hoodie on, she rummages through her bag, and pulls out Sour Patch Kids to share with those that know her, and /Sugar Free/ Haribo Gummy Bears to teach a gentle life lesson to any nearby children that have not yet learned not to take candy from strangers.

Joel texts a reply to whoever texted him, adding something to Bellamy, before doing something final on his phone and sliding it away. Catching the new song, he wonders, a bit louder, "How are /those/ lyrics not bullying the other girl?" with a helpless shrug. tor So you know - I'm not doing all the lyrics for all the songs. Just the first and last one. Too much otherwise.

Annoyed by the whole process with the phone, Bellamy takes his own phone from his pocket, taps the screen, and then goes through a long process of tapping something lengthy on the on-screen keyboard. With a final tap to the screen, Bellamy turns the phone screen to face Joel.

Madeline chuckles to herself at the song's lyrics but she smiles a subtly moves to the music, enjoying the beat

Katrina crosses her arms and nods to the beat of the new song. This one isn't as familiar it seems, but she appears to like it none the less.

With a slight limp, Nino walks into the theatre. One hand is stuffed in the pocket of his coat and in his free hand he grips a drink which he probably got somewhere else. His expression flat, he watches the performance.

Paige slips her own phone out from her dress, tapping at a moment as she leans over to say something to Lin. Nino get a smile and a wave.

Madeline glances beside her as Nino comes in and smiles gently, leaning over to offer him a quiet word

DeadPixel leans over to Katie, Topeka, and Imogen, and asks quietly, "Have you figured out yet how we're going to get backstage?"

Oleksiy is sitting up at the front of the seats, right in front of the stage, but he glances over his shoulder even as he listens to the music, taking in the crowd, and any new arrivals. He seems relaxed about it, but definitely enjoying the show. He looks back to the stage, and to where Amelie is and smiles to her giving her a friendly nod of approval

Mikael turns his head as he hears a familiar voice and smiles up at River, "Bonsoir. I am well. Please sit and join the show."

Unable to stop a little laugh, Katie leans into Imogen when she sits down, giving her a playful shoulder bump, "Silly.", she says with a cute grin, then she nods in agreement with Topeka, "I'm gonna.". And then a new song starts. Though she hasn't heard this one, it has a nice bouncy upbeat sound to it that fits with Katie's personality, so she's bobbing back and fore to the tune. Her hand lazily reaches out to find Topeka's again, linking the fingers together. The question from Pixel has her blink in surprise, "We're gonna go backstage?", she whispers.

"/I/ am going backstage," DeadPixel tells Katie, "the question is if you're coming with me. Got any ideas?"

Joel nods once at what Bellamy shows him, giving him a thumbs-up. The matter is settled, apparently, and he turns his attention back to the concert, still somewhat dubious about this song's lyrics, from the faintly skeptical raise of his dark brows.

Topeka manages a giggle at the little interaction between Katie and Imogen, fingers lacing with Katie's once more. There's a casual shrug to DeadPixel's inquiry, "I dunno. If Katie wants to and there's a way, I wouldn't mind it."

Gabriel's hands move from behind his back to his side as he moves along with the music. He continues moving through room, enjoying the music.

Naozumi sits in the center of the auditorium, admiring the show and trying to take in the others around.

Imogen blushes all over again at Katie's shoulder bump, "hey, it's a good song." At the offered candy from DeadPixel, Imogen unwittingly takes whatever might be offered - even if this means the /sugar free/ gummy bears. She's too distracted to care, enjoying this song at least as much as the previous one. Then she does a double-take at DeadPixel's plan. Leaning over, she asks, "how will we ever get backstage? Aren't there like, guards or something?" She glances to Katie, as if hoping for reason.

River smiles and joins Mikael and heathen as she smiles. "So that was an amazingly good song! Makes me wish I could carry a tune."

Bellamy nods back to Joel and stands from his seat. He slips out of the aisle and begins moving towards the side of the theater.

Nino spots Paige's wave and he squints a little as he takes his hand out of his coat and shows her his middle finger, before he stuffs it back in his pocket as he lifts his chin in her direction.

Shiori knows this song, and her smile grows. She's tapping her foot along with it as well. She remains quiet and instead simply enjoys the show. She likes the artist, after all and this really is a treat.

Martha looks over Imogen and her little friend, such bright colors, then back over the area again.

Lin raises an eyebrow looking from Nino to Paige.

Looking from Imogen to Topeka, DeadPixel and back again, Katie looks like a rabbit in the headlights, "What you all askin' me for?", she chuckles quietly, keeping her voice down so as not to annoy those in front.

Madeline's lips quirk in humor at Nino's wave then chuckles, shaking her head and enjoying the song

Topeka puts her free hand up to politely decline the candy. Well, she then decides to take some sour patch kids. Those are always good! Another shrug of her shoulders, this time to Katie while her mouth is full with the sour candy.

"Sure, there's guards," DeadPixel says to the others, "and probably a guard dog, a moat with alligators, and one of those Mission Impossible laser things, but where there's a will, there's a way. I mean come on, it's /Lirva/ when are we going to get to see her again? Plus I bet she'll be totally cool and friendly especially when she sees my shirt and hoodie." DeadPixel thinks about this for a moment and then adds, "Maybe I should zip up my hoodie." Then she gets a mischievous look and a little twinkle in her eyes when she asks them, do you dare me?"

Angie steps into the theatre, her eyes sweeping over the crowd. Hmm nice crowd tonight. She sees the familiar faces and the not so familiar faces as she lingers by the doorway

Waiting for the crowd to finish cheering, Lirva picks up her water bottle and then takes a drink from it. After setting it down, she pulls the microphone closer. "Thank you all for giving your time, and making donations for our great charities tonight. I sure hope you will give from your heart. I remember being young and having some mean girls bully me when I was younger and all lanky with weird hair and too much eye liner. We should all be given a chance to be free to be who we are. Not have to fit in." Lirva signals the band to start again. The band begins and she is swaying with the music. It is a slow ballad, changing up the tone of the set.

I'm standing on a bridge. I'm waiting in the dark.

I thought that you'd be here by now.

There's nothing but the rain. No footsteps on the ground.

I'm listening but there's no sound.

Isn't anyone trying to find me?

Won't somebody come take me home?

It's a damn cold night. Trying to figure out this life.

Won't you take me by the hand?

Take me somewhere new. I don't know who you are.

But I... I'm with you.

I'm with you.

Paige snorts once at Nino, blowing him a kiss before her attention flits back to Lin.

Madeline is standing near the door and smiles at Angie, holding out a hand to the girl then smiling as the ballad begins

Danny (ARCANE 5 IN EFFECT) makes his way into the theatre. Just another nondescript face in the crowd. Better late than not at all when it comes to a top artist from around the world making a stop in Prospect, right?

"Shush shush..", Katie says to Pixel, waving her free hand in her direction when the ballad starts to play, the girl swaying gently from side to side, a squeeze of Topeka's hand. Leaning sideways, she lays her head on the woman's shoulder, smiling as she listens.

Mikael notices Nino enter and gives the man a nod of greeting as he had others before he responds to River, "Oui, it was." He listens to Lirva tell her own experiences with bullies, and gives a nod of his head to what she is saying. "It is quite the treat to have such a famous artist here.

Angie looks up to see Madeline, smiling. She will then take her hand as she offers it and stands near her. Her eyes shift to Nino and she gives him a polite nod of her head....and a friendly wave

Joel rolls his eyes at Lirva's speech. He leans back in his almost-back-row seat, pulling out his phone again -- and then thinks better of it, with a glance back at the few people standing along the back wall. He pushes himself up, moving to join them so that his phone isn't shining /directly/ in their eyes, slouching against the wall in his trench coat. After a few moments, he moves over to have a quiet word with Madeline before the ballad starts, given how she was the impromptu doorperson before the concert began: "So, this thing got a Venmo or what?"

Imogen purses her lip thoughtfully at DeadPixel's woefully persuasive words and the enticing idea of actually meeting the singer. "Sure, it's Lirva, but I mean..." She looks over to the source of that amazing voice, then back to DeadPixel, "what're we going to do? Just walk in like we own the place and pretend we lost our passes or something?" She gives the new ensemble a once-over, "that's some ungodly fast needlework, by the way." One part fomo and one part just devout thrill seeker, and she's stating in a mortified hiss of a whisper, "are you crazy? You can't do that alone!"

Madeline draws Angie over and presses a motherly kiss to the girl's temple, a soft word of greeting as the song continues

Sitting back in her seat, DeadPixel pulls out a sketchpad and pen, and begins to draw a picture of the concert. It's an alternative to cell phone photos I suppose. The performers are highly stylized in an expressive way. The space, though? That's a little more realistic and detailed. Almost like she's drawing a map.

River smiles to Mikael and says "Yea I seriously need to get out more. Hopefully now that I am done with school and residency I can now.

The other musicians leaving, just the one guitarist remains. Lirva picks up the guitar next to her and checks it really quickly. "It is always great to strip down the music for an acoustic show. Something we do not do often enough. This opportunity was something we all need sometimes. To slow things down. Kids, you liking it?" The kids all cheer in the front, raising their hands, save for a couple that seem embarrassed! Lirva nudges the guitarist next to her, and he starts up the next song. Another slower song, she begins to sing with him and within a few lines she joins in on the guitar as well.

I cannot find a way to describe it. It's there inside, all I do is hide.

I wish that it would just go away.

What would you do, you do, if you knew.

What would you do?

All the pain I thought I knew. All the thoughts lead back to you.

Back to what was never said. Back and forth inside my head.

I can't handle this confusion.

I'm unable, come and take me away.

On certain parts of the song, the guitarist lends his voice in harmony with Lirva. It is obvious they blend well, and have practiced often. It elevates the performance, making both performers stronger. The guitars strumming in sync throughout, all the way to the end of the song.

Montegue strides into the theater and pauses by the doors with a curious if absently distracted look to his face. The man seems to be looking for a familiar face or two with which he might join to enjoy the show.

It's not easy for her to stand still long, Katrina starts to sway to the music a little. Her attention goes between the crowd and the show. Angie's arrival gets a smile, but she stays where she is for now. Responsible like. Well mostly.

Naozumi scans the program as the music plays.

Bellamy walks down the side aisle towards the exit of the theater, perhaps to go retrieve some refreshments. "Good evening, Monty," he greets, stopping near Montegue.

Martha watches the flow of people, the little groupings and such with an amused look on her face.

Topeka glances between Katie and Pixel, listening to her conversation. Before she could say something about daring her, something that would've been along the lines of a casual sure, Katie says 'Shush shush..' and Topeka just smiles, really happy to see that she's just enjoying the show. Topeka leans her head in for a moment, as if to catch another whisper. She nods and her smile brightens at whatever was said.

Angie looks up at Madeline and smiles "bon soir Madeline...quite the turnout non?" She glances at Kat and gives her a smile before looking back to the performer on stage. She eyes the guitar for a moment and she stiffens some. Acoustic guitar...was a weakness

Shiori is thoroughly enjoying the show. She eventually rises and slips over toward Madeline. She touches the blonde's arm, and then smiles to Angie, "This is great," she says just where they can hear.

Madeline squeezes Angie's hand and nods in agreement then smiles when Shiori joins them, the woman getting a kiss to her cheek and a bright smile

Montegue turns to Bellamy and smiles in return, "Evening." He glances around the place to look for other faces and then turns back to the younger-looking guy, "Good to see ya out and about... anyone interesting show up?"

Bellamy nods at Monty. "Yeah, well, I've had enough socializing for one evening," he replies. "Anyone interesting? I don't know anyone, Monty." He chuckles.

Jolene has sort of melted into the background of the event just enjoying the show from the back of the room, and watching over it between songs, and hoping with such a great turnout that there will also be generous donations to support the cause as well.

Mikael still has the majority of his attention on the performance but he leans over and asks River, "Have you chosen a spot for your office yet?"

Montegue nods, "Hey...you up for delivery sometime? My friends sent me a text. Should be fun...if you're ok with Mexican."

Madeline realizes Joel has asked a question and steps over enough for him to hear her. She nods towards Jolene "monsieur, she can help you with that"

Nino is quietly watching the performance. He takes a sip of his drink, then gags a little and he spits back into his glass. He scowls disgustedly and wipes his mouth off on his shoulder. He licks his lips and not so discreetly, he spits off to the side before returning his attention to the entertainment.

Martha hmms and mutters Pixies sticks.

The Guitarist puts down his instrument and walks backstage. He gets a water bottle from Amelie and disappears for now. Lirva is left on stage, and strums her guitar a few times, making some adjustments. It does not take long and she brushes her hair out of her face. Taking a deep breath, she starts this song on her own.

I couldn't tell you, Why she felt that way.

She felt it everyday, and I couldn't help her.

I just watched her make, the same mistakes again.

What's wrong, what's wrong now?

Too many, too many problems.

Don't know where she belongs, Where she belongs.

She wants to go home, but nobody's home.

That's where she lies, broken inside.

With no place to go, No place to go.

To dry her eyes, broken inside.

Open your eyes, And look outside.

Find the reasons why, you've been rejected.

And now you can't find, What you left behind.

This song seems rather personal and touching to the singer. Partway through the other musicians are filtering back in, and by the chorus are joining in to support her solo effort again.

River smiles to Mikael "I still work out of the free clinic for the moment. Honestly haven't given it much thought really. Probably going to take every penny I have to set it up."

"Bien sure. Mercy beaucoupp," Joel responds in terrible, half-assed French that the Bostonian accent does no favors for. He pivots towards Jolene, adding briefly, "Venmo," with a lift of his phone. "Unless, of course, you guys don't want donations." It's a little airy.

Martha moves to Jolene, then speaks quietly to her "Nice show." with another looks over the people here.

DeadPixel nudges Topeka as the guitarist walks backstage. "See that water bottle?" she whispers. "If we can get one of that brand, it'll help with the illusion that we were backstage already." She takes a look at the girls before continuing to whisper, "I don't think there's any way that we're going to be able to pass as security guards. It's a small show, so roadies are out as well. Our basic options are trying to pass briefly as part of Lirva's entourage or someone heavily involved in donating to the museum. There's advantages and disadvantages to both options. One will work in some situations and fail in the others, and vice versa. Our other option is to go all Die Hard and make our way through the ducts. How are you two at climbing?" DeadPixel seems completely serious as she begins plotting an Ocean 11's style heist to get backstage.

Bellamy shakes his head, wearily, at Montegue. "I appreciate it, Monty," he replies. "But not tonight."

Topeka takes a moment to look at the others after listening to DeadPixel's plot and then shrugs a bit, "Balancing, yes. Climbing...? Ehh... not so much."

Naozumi leans on his hand as the music plays.

Oleksiy shifts in his seat a bit, his focus having remained on the music.

Montegue nods, "Not a problem. Maybe another time," he smiles and looks around to see who else might be enjoying the show. "Take it easy and I'll catch you later." With a quick pat on the guy's shoulder, the middle-aged guy starts to mill around the gathered patrons and fans of the theater.

Madeline returns to Angie & Shiori, enjoying the rest of the song

Mikael says, “That is a very worthy cause.”

Imogen continues to enjoy the music while DeadPixel likely plots and schemes nearby. She cheers whenever a song ends, rising up to join the applause - though making a point not to be the last one standing. By now, she's basically finished her Milk Duds and soda, and sits there transfixed by the more touching notes to the song. When DeadPixel comes up with a collection of plans, she blinks dubiously at the last one about climbing, "ummm..." Topeka going along with that latter idea catches her off guard, looking her way, then offers up, "I'm not sure we'd even need that brand. If we're carrying stuff that looks like it should be backstage, they might let us pass?...do you even know what ducts go where, or they're large enough to be person-sized?"

Paige lifts up a brow for a moment to Lin, but then her phone slips from her dress once more, tapping at it.

Jolene gently takes the phone knowing that the foundation she is part of has an account not tied directly to the foundations secured computers and it is set up for such donations, through various means to accept donations, and smiles warmly at Joel, "Of course we do! Any donations received through the account, will be combined with the donations we receive through other sources and a check presented directly to the programs we support here tonight." She is speaking quietly with Joel in the back of the theatre avoiding interfering with the show.

Nino wanders with a slight limp over to a trash receptacle and he contemplates his drink for a second before he tosses the glass into the garbage as he walks by. He circles around by Paige and stands right behind her in a rather creepy manner, then he leans down and lifts a hand to cover his mouth as he whispers something to her.

"I'm thinking this venue is too small to try to pass like we belong," DeadPixel whispers to Imogen. "I think the ducts are our best option. They'll definitely be large enough for a person." She looks around the space. "There has to be a way to heat and cool this place, temperature control is very important in a museum. We might have to back track a few times, but I'm pretty sure eventually we'll make it. The grappling hook will be quicker, but a little tougher to use. You need upper body strength for that." She eyes the two girls, and waves her hand back and forth a little to indicate 'eh, maybe'. "So I'm thinking I'll start making a rope ladder. I have some rope with me, but more is always better, did either of you bring any rope?"

Lin winks at Paige as she bobs her head to the music enjoying the show.

Bellamy nods to Montegue. "Enjoy the rest of the concert," he adds before moving towards the theater's exit.

Shiori spots someone, and after a moment she moves away from Madeline and Angie and walks around the back of the theater toward Danny.

River says, “Well I'll need an office legally, the medical board would have a stroke if I practiced from the back of my shop."”

Madeline receives a text and smiles, nodding as she sends several more then watches the talent on the stage of her theater, clearly pleased

Bowing her head with thanks and raising a hand to wave to the crowd, Lirva is appreciative of all the fans and applause. She looks over to the band, all there behind her and thanks them as well for being there. She is saying something to them before turning back to start up the next song herself. They join in after awhile.

And I want to believe you, when you tell me that it'll be okay.

Yeah, I try to believe you.

But I don't.

When you say that it's gonna be, it always turns out to be a different way.

I try to believe you.

Not today, today, today, today, today.

I don't know how I'll feel, tomorrow, tomorrow.

I don't know what to say, tomorrow, tomorrow.

Is a different day.

It's always been up to you, it's turning around.

It's up to me, I'm gonna do what I have to do.

Just don't.

Give me a little time, gotta leave me alone a little while.

Maybe it's not too late.

Not today, today, today, today, today.

I don't know how I'll feel, Tomorrow, tomorrow.

I don't know what to say, Tomorrow, tomorrow.

Is a different day.

Joel doesn't actually hand his phone over to Jolene. He holds it out so she can see the anonymous setup for Venmo. A whopping $20 donation has already been set up, and he grins back at Jolene. "Cool. How much of the donation goes to the actual foundation, and how much is lost to nebulous operating costs?" he wonders, brows raised. "Give me the Venmo ID for the foundation and I'll send it over." He raises a shoulder, vaguely distractedly, at Bellamy's leave-taking. "Send it to the anti-bullying shindig. I don't do art."

Amelie looks down to her phone just before the song starts and returns a message to those that might see her standing there at the edge of the stage. Placing her hands down in front of her, back into watch mode, her foot taps with the music.

Paige lifts up her brows, and for a moment she smiles. Then she is raising up, brushing off her dress. One hand held out to Lin even as she turns to speak lowly back to Nino.

Topeka turns her glance to Imogen for a moment, listening to her and nodding her head before her eyes fall on DeadPixel. She gives DeadPixel a deadpan look. "Why... on Earth would I bring any rope?" This idea doesn't sound like it's going to end well. Doomed from the start.

Oleksiy seems to be quite pleased at the music. he pulls out his phone and checks it, reluctantly, then puts it away, apparently not as important as all that. He then glances around and smiles a bit at all the fans. He looks back to the stage and nods, much of wants going on behind him seems to be ignored or unnoticed.

Imogen looks to Topeka as DeadPixel progresses through her Mission Impossible styled stratagem, unsure exactly how serious she was - or the group at large, really - to commit to something like this. She whispers something to Topeka, then says offhandedly, "I don't have any rope. Did you put a grappling hook somewhere I can't see?" She frowns, "where would the vents even be that we could climb into, especially without anyone noticing?"

Danny will offer up a small smile and a wave when Shiori approaches, by way of giving the woman a greeting.

Mikael continues to quietly speak with River as he listens to the music, "You could probably get grants and other aid easier with an office."

Gabriel's hands move from behind his back to his side as he moves along with the music. He continues moving through room, enjoying the music.

Lin takes Paige's hand rising before turning and giving a bright friendly smile to Nino who has come over to loom near them.

Martha watches the people coming in and out from where she is, and does not bother talking again to anyone.

Madeline remains near the door with Angie and Shiori, giving a happy sigh as the music continues and murmurs "she's wonderful"

Shiori stops next to Danny and says only loud enough for him to hear, "I'm glad you made it."

Nino nods once slowly to Paige and he gives her a thumbs up, then he looks to Lin with a frown and he turns away, stalking through the theater toward Madeline.

Danny gives Shiori a nod. "A lovely performance. Worth making the time and effort."

Madeline's sapphire eyes turn from the stage to the man stalking towards her and turns to face him a bit more, lovely skirts brushing the floor as she does so. Her lips curve and she arches a brow, waiting for Nino to reach her

DeadPixel looks absolutely shocked that of the three women she's the only one who's carrying rope with her. At Imogen's question she pats the overstuffed messenger bag on her laptop to indicate somewhere in there is a grappling hook. "We'll go in through the ladies room," DeadPixel whispers to them. "I figure the way pipes and buildings are setup, the restrooms on this side of the stage are going to be sorta close to the one's on the other side of the stage." She then rummages through her bag, and very carefully begins knotting a rope ladder. One length disappearing into the bag as she then works on the next.

Paige gives a smile to the departing Nino, and a wave to Maddy. Then she is picking up her violin case and leading Lin off towards the back.

River looks to Mikael and nods. "Well I also have people that donate to my clinic. I can probably just expand it to incorporate an office.

Topeka leans in to the whisper from Imogen, taking a moment to glance at and nod her head and then whisper something back. When she's finished she glances over at DeadPixel. "Hey, I mean, if you want to do it, you can go ahead, but I wasn't planning on it and after this concert I need to get some sleep for work tomorrow."

Paris comes in quietly, he looks for a second and spots a familiar face and makes his way to sit down.

Lin gives a little bow towards Madeline since Paige is waving at her then follows Paige getting to go up close to the music with a little bounce in her step.

Angie stands near Madeline and looks to where she is looking. When she sees Nino walking in their direction she stands perfectly still, watching and waiting

Lirva claps for her band, and the set returns then to the beginning. Just her and the one guitarist, the lighting drops to just them. "I want to thank you all for coming out and spending the evening with us. I hope we can do this again sometime. We are going to finish up tonight with my first hit. I hope you like it, and be sure to give generously to the charities tonight. We can never have enough performing arts available for youth, they are our future." She counts off then to the guitarist and he takes it away!

"La la la la

La la la la

Chill out, what you yellin' for? Lay back, it's all been done before.

And if you could only let it be, you will see!

I like you the way you are. When we're drivin' in your car.

And you're talkin' to me one on one, But you've become...

Somebody else 'round everyone else,

You're watchin' your back like you can't relax,

You're tryin' to be cool, You look like a fool to me. Tell me..

Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated?

I see the way you're actin' like you're somebody else gets me frustrated.

Life's like this, You, you fall and you crawl and you break.

And you take what you get and you turn it into honesty.

You promised me I'm never gonna find you fake it.

No, no, no"

"You don't want to go backstage?" DeadPixel whispers to Topeka. "It'll be quick. Will just say hi to Lirva, or failing that steal her hairbrush." Then to Imogen she whispers, "What size shoe are you by the way?" DeadPixel gives a little nod to Paris, and points to the empty seat Katie used to be in, near Topeka, Imogen, and herself.

Madeline glances over and nods to Lin with a smile and a nod

Nino limps his way to Madeline and he tilts his head toward Angie, "I'm gonna drag her around the block a few times, you mind?" he lifts a brow curiously.

Paris sits next to DeadPixel and says, "I'm already regretting this... So what's up DP?"

Imogen chews on her lip, since biting her nails would just be too obvious. She leans back over to hear what Topeka has to say. She seems pretty hesitant, judging by her expression of astonishment that this is a thing that's actually happening and seriously considered, yet there's still a little part of her whispering of the virtues to peer pressure. At the idea of the ladies room, she ventures, "I guess that makes some sense..." A glance at Topeka's denial. Chewing on her lip again, she murmurs, "ummm...nine? Why?" Her eyes widen, witnessing the construction of a rope ladder in the middle of a concert hall.

Madeline turns back to Nino and chuckles "I do mind, sorry. She's spoken for mon ami"

Montegue makes the rounds, seeing and being seen by the right people here and there and decides to step out for some air.

Shiori says to Danny, "Thank you. It turned out well." She looks over the crowd again, as the last song plays. "It was definitely a group effort.

Angie glances at Nino as he makes his request. Her lips twitch a moment as some words come to mind but she keeps her mouth shut. Instead she gives Nino a friendly smile, and then a look to Maddie as she says she minds.

As Paris calls her DP, DeadPixel's eye almost bug out. She leans across the other ladies and gives Paris two pokes in the chest with her index finger, as she says quietly through gritted teeth, "That. is. not. my. name." She looks him dead in the eyes to make sure this is crystal clear, and then leans back in her seat to go back working on the rope ladder. Then whispering to Paris she says, "This is Imogen and Topeka, Imogen and Topeka, Paris. We're just trying to figure out how we're going to get backstage. We decided on a rope ladder and the ducts." Then she gives a nod to Imogen and whispers, "You're going to need new boots for our next adventures." Quickly she rummages through her bag and hands the thereof them flyers for a punk show next Sunday. "You should come to this, Kallisti and I are going to play, then we'll have a real adventure afterwards." Apparently using a rope ladder to get backstage at a concert by going all Die Hard through the ducts is not much of an adventure to DeadPixel.

Jolene smiles at Joel's question, "Actually the proceeds raised from the Charity events are split equally between STOMP out Bullying and Californians for the Arts, I am the head of the On Wings of Angels Foundation though and we are here to support the community as much as we can, we are not taking a cut of anything and absorb the costs, So any donation helps! We really appreciate your support!" She takes out her own secured phone, and pulls up the ID, so that he can see it. "Here you are." but like him, she doesn't just hand her phone either, she knows better than that.

Danny nods to Shiori, "Good causes too. I'll make sure to send along some extra. The Wing Kong Benevolent Association can spare it."

Shiori dips her head and offers a quiet, "Thank you. It is very much appreciated."

Nino rolls his eyes, and shakes his head as he says to Madeline. "Suit yourself. Nice event... the drinks are shit though." then he looks toward Jolene and he squints, "Wait a second, is this a benefit?" he looks suspicious now.

Letting her hair fall in her face, much like she has a few times tonight, Lirva closes her eyes and sways. As she sings, she sometimes mocks like she is drumming along.

You come over unannounced, dressed up like you're somethin' else.

Where you are and where it's at, you see. You're makin' me,

Laugh out when you strike your pose.

Take off all your preppy clothes.

You know, you're not foolin' anyone, when you become.

Somebody else 'round everyone else.

You're watchin' your back like you can't relax.

You're tryin' to be cool, You look like a fool to me. Tell me..

Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated?

I see the way you're actin' like you're somebody else gets me frustrated.

Life's like this, You, you fall and you crawl and you break.

And you take what you get and you turn it into honesty.

You promised me I'm never gonna find you fake it.

No, no, no.

No, no, no.

No, no, no.

No, no, no....

Madeline slips an arm about Angie's middle and nods to Nino "thank you my friend, I'll work on the drinks" she chuckles and nods "It seems to be" then turns to the stage again, clearly enjoying the music

At being poked in the chest Paris flinches a few times and says, "Ow, geeze. Ok ok." He looks to the rope ladder and says to DeadPixel, "Why." Followed with "I really don't want to bail you out if you get caught."

Angie quickly covers her mouth as a small giggle escapes, muffling it. Good ol Nino...

"Not really." Topeka says softly, "No offense. I mean if you can get to go back there and I can join, that'd be cool. But not intentionally." She glances to Imogen for a moment, like she's noticing something but before she can say anything, she's introduced to Paris and she waves and smiles, "Hi. I'm Topeka!" There's a moment of silence at DeadPixel's reaction to being called DP. She knows from the hard way that's a baaaaaaaaad thing to say! She takes the flyer and looks it over. "Thanks. Actually... I kinda feel more like a smoke now more than anything." She glances to Imogen, "You smoke by chance? If you do or not, you want to join me outside anyway?"

Mikael glances around the area, seeming to watch a few people's movements but turns back to the stage, "You should consider speaking with Mademoiselle Addison. She works with various charities and might be able to help your clinic."

Paige stands up front with Lin, smiling politely, her eyes however travel, watching over things. Apparently while the music is nice, it isn't truly her thing. And Nino just found out this was a charity event anyways.

Joel nods at Jolene's response. "All right. Send as much of mine as you can to the nerds that get pushed in the dirt, huh? Might be my past springing up to life a bit there. For all Melania Trump's an idiot, I really don't wanna see anyone actually bullied, cyber or otherwise." The donation is sent, and he rocks back on his heels, waiting it to show on Jolene's phone.

"Why? To meet Lirva and steal her hairbrush," DeadPixel whispers to Paris, as she works on the rope ladder. "Ugh, why'd you say cigarette?" DeadPixel asks Topeka. "If we go out for a smoke, it might be difficult to get back in." She pauses a beat before saying, "but I kinda want one. Shall we go outside and have one? If so we might have to use the grappling hook to get back in."

Nino pats Madeline on her shoulder and he walks toward the exit, turning his head toward Angie on his way to mutter, "I think I left my wallet in the john." at her, then he steps out of the room.

Imogen stares at DeadPixel in bemusement at the response she receives for the shoe size, "...ok?" She takes the flyer, hesitant but still very curious, "oh." She looks relieved, just a normal, sane show, right? "Thanks. I might! I'm still in search of a job, so depends if I've got any fish on the hook, so to speak." She seems just a little bit surprised by the reaction to the nickname for DeadPixel. Then she looks to Paris, who's now sitting next to her, where Katie used to be. "Ummm, hey." Topeka's offer for a smoke has her thinking a moment, glancing over at the show still ongoing, but then she nods and says, "sure. I could do that."

Madeline blinks at the nice move from Nino and smiles in surprise then shrugs and turns back to the music

Angie gives Nino a bright smile as he leaves, glancing to Maddie "Does he want me to go get it?"

Knowing people is handy as Lin upgrades to the front of the crowd with Paige watching the band and dancing in place. All casual like keeping an eye on her surroundings.

Getting toward the end of the song it slows down a bit for the bridge.

Chill out, what you yellin' for? Lay back, it's all been done before.

And if you could only let it be, you will see...

Somebody else 'round everyone else.

You're watchin' your back like you can't relax.

You're tryin' to be cool, you look like a fool to me.

Tell me!

Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated?

I see the way you're actin' like you're somebody else gets me frustrated.

Life's like this, You, you fall and you crawl and you break.

And you take what you get and you turn it into honesty.

You promised me I'm never gonna find you fake it.

No, no..

Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated? yeah, yeah

I see the way you're actin' like you're somebody else gets me frustrated.

Life's like this, You, you fall and you crawl and you break.

And you take what you get and you turn it into honesty.

You promised me I'm never gonna find you fake it.

No, no, no...

At the end of the song, Lirva reaches over to give the guitarist a big hug. The other musicians come back out for a curtain call, each taking a bow and she introduces them each in turn. They all escape backstage then, leaving Lirva, "Again, thank you all for coming, the Crown Museum for hosting us, and for being a great audience!" She waves to the children, and walks around the circle then high fiving all that want it and then swoops back toward back stage and after a few more waves she moves past Amelie who then follows them back with several other large security guys.

(Does one look like Brock Lesnar? Nah...)

Jolene smiles as the donation is received and nods to Joel in clear appreciation. "Thank you very much on behalf of all of here tonight. I understand being bullied, truly, I think a lot of us here can, at one point, in one form or another. I am glad you feel the way you do about it, because we need more people who are passionate, taking a stand against it. And working to raise awareness on how to stand up to others constructively." It is clear to see this is actually something that Jolene is passionate about, but she keeps her tone low and her passion at a low roar, so she does not cause a disruption to the concert. "I do hope you enjoy your evening Sir." She bows her head respectfully and lets him go back to the concert if he wishes.

Madeline chuckles "you're not going to go look for Nino's wallet, listen to the music" she says to Angie, gently swaying to the tune. When all the musicians come out Madeline steps up a little and applauds brightly "Brava!"

Paris offers a wave to Topeka and Imogen. Then says, "Yeah... Smoking is a better option than me having to watch you embarrass yourselves." He grins a bit then looks around to see who is here.

One of the children that goes to leave the show seems to be wearing a slightly different hoodie. Who am I kidding? It's DeadPixel, but tiny as she is, and wearing items that were only supposed to be given to children, it might be easy to mistake her for one. This hoodie is a sarcastic punk rock masterwork collage made from the various fabrics found in the swag bags. On the back of the hoodie on top are the words 'NAIVE GOD POWER'. Below this on the right side is a highly distorted Lirva Veenal, each body part coming from a different shirt, hat, or tote bag. There's a jumble of the remaining letters surrounding her in a border, with all the remaining 'E's coming out of her mouth as if she was singing. To the left side are a variety of different 'LIRVA VEENAL autographs, angled slightly, stacked one below the next. "Hurry, she whispers to her friends, quick smoke, and then we'll sneak back in and get back stage." (5 succ on Crafts roll - witnessed by Katie.)

Paige for her part looks to Angie, then pantomimes opening up a wallet and taking out a wad of cash. How did she hear? Lord knows. But she is then motioning to Lin, and pointing to Amelie as she makes her way past the stage from the side and to the bodyguard clad woman.

Oleksiy rises to his feet and applauds along with the crowd, perhaps a bit less animatedly but he certainly seemed to enjoy the show. He watches everyone step off the stage.

Angie nods to Madeline "Right" When the performers come out she applauds loudly

Mikael stands and applauds as the bows are taken. He then turns and starts making his way to the back of the crowd where

Madeline and the others are standing.

Angie happens to glance at Paige and she chuckles lightly

Joel's eyes glaze over at Jolene's words. "That's a lot of yack for 'thanks'," he drawls, but smiles slightly. "Adios." He switches his phone to dark again, listening to the rest of the song, adding, "Didn't Weird Al do a parody of that one?" A moment's Googling satisfies him as he finds it and he starts playing it at a very low audio level now that the actual concert's concluded, hovering at the back to watch folks start to leave.

Topeka nods to those in her crew, standing up and moving to head outside. Her sea-green and blue hair is done up in pigtails. She's wearing a white t-shirt that has the cover of famed stage hypnotist and magician Peter Reveen's book 'The Superconscious World' but Robb Wells' face is pasted over Peter's. Completing her attire is a red plaid skirt, white crew socks pulled up to the middle of her shins, black platform boots on her feet and a little white purse over her right shoulder. She starts to dig into her purse as she heads outside to try and find a pack of smokes and a lighter.

There is a lot of security throughout the building. Large men in black shirts with the word SECURITY in white letters. They are on duty even with the show being over. So mind your P's & Q's

Shiori turns to Danny, "Thank you for coming. Are your plans coming along?" She asks curiously.

Jolene continues to stand in the back, accepting any donations offered to her directly, with a warm smile to those and giving thanks to the donations received. She is usually the first to arrive and nitpick details and the last to leave once everything is cleaned up.

As the show ends and the performers turn out to bow for the audience, Imogen rises from her seat one last time and claps happily, cheering loudly, and more or less fangirling as much as someone in the audience possibly can. She doesn't even have to embarrass herself by being the last one on her feet this time, since everyone begins to shuffle out - at least from her little island of onlookers.

Madeline leans over and kisses Mikael's cheek with a smile "Wasn't it wonderful?" she asks, keeping an eye on the crowd from her spot by the door

Danny leans in to speak quietly with Shiori. A small nod. "They are. yes. Slowly." A smile, "But I have time."

Lin tags along with Paige grinning excitedly as they approach the security wall.

Clapping like everyone else, Katrina move back to the stage for another appearance at the microphone. She takes it in hand this time so she can move a little more, "Let's hear it one more time Lirva Veenal." she says, hand gesturing in the direction Lirva was last seen. After a moment she turns back towards the crowd and continues, "Once more we'd like to thank everyone for making their way out tonight. Please take the time to stop and ask questions about the charity and make a donation. You won't find a much better cause out there." She places the mike back into place on the stand and makes her way off the stage once more.

Paris stands and shakes his head, then offers some light applause and begins to make his way out.

One of the big men looks at Paige and Lin, then nods and messages on his radio before stepping aside and letting the pair backstage

Angie looks up as Mikael approaches, a friendly smile give to him "Bon soir Mikael, how are you this evening my friend?"

Shiori nods, "Things like that do take time." She gives Danny a smile, "I need to be going though. I have a few things to do, and then need to go check on someone."

Mikael accepts the kiss and places his hand on Madeline's arm for a brief moment. "Oui, it was wonderful. And such a large turnout." He gives a bright smile to Angie then. "Even a few unexpected ones which were a pleasant surprise." His eyes shift to the bathroom area.

Madeline smiles warmly as people begin to leave "thank you for coming, thank you. Have a good night"

On his way out Paris leaves a donation and offers a thanks as well as an apology for the late arrival. "I do enjoy helping out when it comes to kids." He smiles and exits.

Paige smiles softly, approaching Amelie after she is let pass with Lin. "Miss Renoir, who do I speak to about donations?"

Weird Al's parody fades out, and Joel raises a hand towards Mikael. "Man, you owe me a Sazerac." His voice is recognizable, at least, even if the face that owned it was mostly obscured by a mask last time. "I'll be by sometime for it. Make it stronger than the weak-sauce stuff last time." It wasn't weak; he's baiting Mikael slightly, if with a grin. "See ya." And he moves for the door.

Oleksiy has not left, standing still where he watched the show from, and turning to watch the crowd as it comes and goes. He seems at ease, and taking in each person closely.

Danny gives Shiori a nod, "I should be on my way as well. See you 'round."

Mikael glances around for Jolene and then tells Madeline, "I wanted to give our checks to Mademoiselle Addison but I don't see her."

Shiori nods, and then steps away. She turns to approach Madeline and touches her arm, "I know it's a bit strange for me to rush off, but I really should check on our new friend."

Jolene is buried in the back of the theatre, as people are moving to leave, so it may be hard to see her, in that rush. She is also answering questions asked of her, and being as helpful as she can.

Madeline looks around and points out Jolene with a smile for Mikael "There she is, and thank you mon ami, it is much appreciated

Martha moves to others now like Mikael, and them with a smile and little wave. Though she is still looking about to check out people as she moves past them.

Amelie comes back from the backstage area, looking quite happy. She looks to see who is still here and if anyone is still remaining that she knows.

Shiori checks in with Madeline, and then turns to leave to take care of other things.

Mikael steps over to Jolene and takes out an envelope from his inside jacket pocket and hands it to her. "These are from Heath, Phoenix and myself."

Gabriel mills about, watching people come and go until Amelie re-emerges from the back. He turns and makes his way over to where she is, a little wave as he nears, "Good evening."

Lin gives a little bow to Amelie from next to Paige "Ah yes, I should give something also. This has been very wonderful. My first concert since arriving in the United States." in her soft Chinese accent.

Amelie curtsies to Gabriel, "Monsieur de la Vega, I am so glad you made it here tonight. Did you enjoy the concert?" She sees Paige with a new friend to her knowledge and Lin's bow. Giving them a wave she looks back to Gabriel with a friendly smile.

Madeline smiles happily and kisses Angie's cheek "go mingle, I'm going to make sure everything flows smoothly as people depart"

Katrina watches people mill around and starts to move towards the back, approaching where Jolene is taking donations. She approaches with a smile and steps in next to her muttering softly, "Anything I can do to help?"

"Ah well, here is a good place for it. The owner runs something at least once a season. Though I should get the Amos Campbell Memorial Amphitheater into swing..." Paige notes, before her hand waves. "Ah, I likely need Jolene however." She then turns to look for the Jolene in question, or Maddy.

Martha watches all quietly, with a smile on her face. She moves about people she knows more lurking and listening for now.

Madeline turns to Paige's voice and smiles, stepping over to she and Lin "Did you enjoy the show?"

Oleksiy doesn't seem in a hurry, just watching the crowd, relaxed and silent at the moment.

Jolene offers a warm hug to Mikael, clearly touched by their generosity and offers a warm hug even without opening the envelopes yet, "I know I can always count on your support Mikael, and Heathen and Phoenix too. You have always been so generous! And thank you for catering for us as well. I believe everyone loved the delicious food. I found myself sampling some during the set up myself." She then smiles a Katrina comes up too, and gently squeezes her hand, "You did amazing tonight Katrina, as Mistress of Ceremonies. I could always use a hand cleaning up tonight before we head home?"

Gabriel smiles brightly and nods, "It was definitely interesting music. I could see listening to more." he admits. "I am definitely glad I came."

Mikael smiles and bows his head to Jolene, "You are most welcome, Mademoiselle. Congratulations to everyone involved for a wonderful concert." He turns his head then to Joel and gives the man a smirk, "Oui, I do. And I shall personally tell Philippe to pour you one that will make you that you can /feel/. But I suggest you do not sit on the Carousel as you drink it. I would hate to see you fall off, non?

Joel, moving towards the door, adds to Mikael, "Sounds like a dare. I hereby waive all liability lawsuit claims for doing dumb shit when I'm drunk. Expect me to call your bluff in the next week, Ragin' Cajun." And he's away!

Angie nods and moves into the crowd, talking to a few people here and there. She shakes a few hands as well

"Yes very much. I have not been to many concerts and many of the good concerts back home are in places where I am often not allowed." Lin smiles brightly. The hard life of a teenager. "But I have had to opportunity to see many exciting things on my visit to the United States. This is a definite highlight."

Madeline smiles warmly at Lin "I am so pleased you could both come. Did you get the autograph you sought?"

Paige nods, giving a small smile to Lin as she praises the event. But then she is commenting to Amelie. "Amelie, I would like to ensure that the largest donation tonight is attested to a Nino Caravelli and the good people at Caravelli's Italian Ristorante." A pause. "Let me get my checkbook."

Martha laughs then shakes her head moving again quietly with grin over something she heard.

Amelie is quite happy with Gabriel's words. "We will be hosting more concerts in months to come. Hopefully I can be instrumental in introducing you to more music as the nights come." Her head turns to Paige as she speaks to her. "Monsieur Caravelli? That is quite generous to support his family." She feels there is a motive behind that.

Madeline's brow goes up at Paige's words and she lifts her fingers to her lips to hide her smile

Gabriel nods, looking around a bit. A nod to Paige before he turns back to Amelie.. "Perfect.. I love discovering new things. I will be here."

Jolene does step out of the theatre for a moment to check the donation tables while everyone else seems a bit distracted, though she does whisper in Katrina's ear first.

Oleksiy sighs just a little to himself, and steps out into the isle finally. He adjusts his clothing and waits there a moment.

"Ah, I am sure I will. But there is no hurry. I also do not wish to bother during the cool down after performing." Lin looks about between those that have gathered. "I am Sun Lin, a friend of Paige. She was kind enough to invite me to come to this with her." Angie"

Katrina nods and opts to stay close while Jolene goes into the theatre incase another donation needs to be taken. Not that she is overly wanting to, but someone needs to be able to do it.

Angie looks to Oleksiy and moves towards him "Good evening Mr. Oleksiy, how are you this evening?" She gives him a friendly smile and also hears Caravelli....then it makes her think of chicken fettuccini alfredo...wine..bread and then finally tiramisu...

Mikael having taken care of the donations to Jolene and spoken to a few people he steps back over to where Madeline and the others are, giving Lin a curious look as he hears her introduction.

"I simply wish to make sure that Mr. Caravelli is well known for his and his families generosity." Paige smiles brightly as she does indeed, withdraw a checkbook from her dress, beginning to fill it out. "And it is as always, purely a pleasure to spend time with you Miss Sun, you know that."

Oleksiy smiles to Angie "Thank you for your welcome." his deep , richly accented voice responds to her "It was a wonderful night.. Unfortunately my wife could not come.. Business you understand.. but she did ask me to make a donation while I was here.. I thought I would do that before I go.. And I hoped to congratulate the hostesses"

Madeline offers her hand to Lin "Enchante Mademoiselle Sun. Madeline Blanchard, I own this fine establishment. I am so glad you could come tonight"

Amelie hmms to Lin and Paige, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mademoiselle Sun. I hope you enjoyed it all." She reaches for Gabriel's hand for a moment, just a light friendly squeeze, "That would be wonderful. I'm so happy for your support. I am hoping to have some smaller events at the new club I plan to open in the Emerald Plaza. Perhaps you can be there as well."

Angie smiles again and nods "Do tell your lovely wife hello for me and well let's get you to the hostesses of the evening." She scans the area and does not see Jolene right away but she does spot Amelie "Miss Renoir is right over there"

Oleksiy smiles "Indeed. but she is so very busy. I would never wish to intrude upon her." he will follow Angie though as she guides him over.

Angie sees Madeline as she leads him and nods "How about Miss Blanchard?"

Madeline looks up at her name and smiles warmly at Angie and Olek "bon soir. Monsieur how did you enjoy the concert?" she calls over to the man

Gabriel smiles as his hand is taken and squeezed, "That sounds great.. If I can do anything to help feel free to ask." he offers. "I can't way to check it out."

Oleksiy smiles to Angie "That is fine, Both are to be congratulated." he then nods and smiles to Madeline "It was marvelous. I am very glad I could come."

Martha quietly heads on out for now.

Paige smiles again writing out a check that clearly states 'From Nino Caravelli and Caravelli's Italian Ristorante'. She nods once before signing it and holding it out towards Maddy.

Madeline steps over and kisses Olek's cheek "Merci beau coup, it was very much a joint effort. I could not be more proud"

Lin winks over at Mikael with a smile before nodding to Amelie and Madeline "I wish there was more room to dance. But I understand it was not the time for it with it being a charity concert and children being here." before nudging Paige "Perhaps next there could be a dance we could go to. While I cannot get into most clubs.. Dancing someplace might be different. Maybe?"

Madeline turns to Paige and accepts the check, gently folding it into her hand with a smile "I will be certain to thank him most effusively"

Oleksiy smiles and nods to Madeline, He then looks over at Paige, Lin and Amelie, considering each for a long moment.

Amelie smiles as checks are passed. "We certainly can have something with a dance theme. I've got ideas already." She looks over to Gabriel, and not wanting to hold his hand for too long, as they are just friends, she releases it, "I should be making the rounds to finish up here tonight. Perhaps we can talk more another night? Let me know when you are free?"

Mikael smiles brightly and chuckles softly at Lin. "If you like to dance, Mademoiselle.." He pulls a thin card case from his pocket, and withdraws a card from it and offers it to her. On the front is his name, Mikaël Rousseau, with scrollwork and musical notes over a fleur-de-lis background. On the flipside are the names 'Vieux Carre and Bourbon & Bedlam (The Carousel Bar)', and 'Whispers of Widow Paris', along with their contact numbers and web sites. "You would be welcome at B&B, and enjoy a complimentary drink. We have the regulars and quite tasty virgin cocktails."

Gabriel grins as his hand is released and nods, "Of course.. I would love to and I am free most nights but yes I will give you a ring."

"Of course Miss Sun." Paige smiles to Lin, closing her eyes for a moment. "We really should see if any balls are being thrown at some point."

Madeline inclines her head to Paige and moves to deliver the check to Jolene when she returns

Gabriel watches the exchange of checks and ohs to himself, this is a charity event after all. He pulls out his own checkbook and pen. Smiling he fills a check out and hands it to Madeline. "I hope this is enough to help." he smiles.

Madeline glances over to Gabriel without looking at the check and smiles "Anything will help monsieur, your gift is deeply appreciated"

Bowing Lin accepts the card from Mikael "I shall come and see. I have never done French style dancing. Mostly clubs, traditional, and religious dance." before nodding to Paige "It was nice to have something fancy to wear a qipao to." she smoothes out her dress turn from side to side. "It is one advantage of living in China Town. I can get appropriate clothing with ease."

Amelie moves away from Gabriel and Paige, Lin, Madeline, and over by Oleksiy. Time to make the rounds. "How did you enjoy the concert, Monsieur Druzyna?" She looks back when she sees a check being exchanged.

Paige nods her head, before suddenly snerking "Well I at least could use seeing you in traditional dress more often Miss Sun."

Oleksiy smiles to Amelie and nods "it was excellent.. a skilled artist and an interesting style of music.. My wife wanted me to give you her apologies that business kept her away.. she so wanted to attend." he offers to her "She will be doubly sorry when I tell her about it." he offers simply.

Mikael chuckles softly again and shakes his head, "Non, this is not French dancing exactly, it is mainly jazz, blues and later in the evening there is rock and other types of music. Bourbon and Bedlam is a New Orleans style lounge, so many different styles and cultures are represented." He glances over to Paige then, arching his brow and giving her a smile at her comment to Lin.

Jolene smiles warmly and graciously receives the check to add to the others already, taking a moment to peak at it and just shakes her head, clearly delighted by the generosity of their friends.

Madeline smile fondly and kisses Jolene's cheek "well done my dear"

With a snap of her fan Lin peers at Paige over it practices her hidden smolder technique before snapping it closed again with a grin. To Mikael she nods "Ah I understand. It is like Shidaiqu from the age of decadence. Jazz was very popular then."

Jolene puts an arm around Madeline, "oh no don't you give me credit for tonight's event! This is all on You, Shiori and Amelie!" She laughs and squeezes Madeline, and even offers a nod to Paige as well with a smile and wink.

Madeline returns the embrace and smiles "and you dearest, and you" she smiles "I'm going to make sure the staff has all they need to clean up for the night"

Amelie bows her head to Oleksiy, "Hopefully she can come around next time. I should go make sure that things are all taken care of tonight. Let me know if I can do anything else for you, or we need to meet for other things."

"See? I rest my case." Paige tilts her head to Lin before she leans in to give the girl a soft peck on the cheek.

Oleksiy nods once "if you need anything." he agrees with Amelie, politely

Mikael smiles and slips back over towards Madeline and Amelie to give the two women some privacy. "I have already congratulated Mademoiselle Addison, I just wish to do the same for both of you. A wonderful evening and an excellent concert. It was a tremendous success."

Madeline takes Amelie's hand and squeezes it gently then kisses her cheek and speaks softly to her in French

Jolene quietly moves about the others, and the museum, taking care of little things to make sure the museum is ready to close when everyone else has left, but is in no way rushing anyone.

Amelie is looking tired, despite the fun evening. She kisses Madeline cheek back, and whispers to her as well.