Lissy’s Dance Performance

Lissy’s concealed participation in a dance group develops from shame and stage fright into a performance that reveals an unexpected side of her.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Hidden Rehearsal

An Unusual Secret Private Practice Lissy rehearses with Jean-Paul and other professionals in a dance group. She keeps it from Emma because she is embarrassed by the prospect of being seen as unable to dance. A New Pursuit Her secrecy is not a romantic deception but a sign that Lissy, usually defined by intellect and work, has taken up something outside her familiar identity.

Stage Fright

The Impulse to Withdraw Fear of Failure Backstage, Lissy says she cannot remember the steps and becomes physically sick with nerves. She wants to change clothes and leave before anyone sees her fail. Emma’s Encouragement Emma reminds her of the difficult public performances she already handles in court and warns that she may regret giving up. Lissy chooses to go on, asking Emma to stay nearby.

A Radiant Performance

Taking the Stage Unexpected Skill Lissy dances with striking energy, moving through a duet and a ribbon sequence. Emma watches in amazement, realizing that even a closest friend can have hidden abilities. A Changed Self-Image Afterward Lissy admits she enjoyed the performance and mentions a possible tour. The experience gives her a source of confidence beyond legal achievement.

Several weeks before the performance

Just before the show in Bloomsbury

That evening, during the dance show