ode to an opening

Ode to an Opening
by Katherine Perry

'Tis the night before opening and all through the house,
creatures are stirring, in particular a pooping mouse.
The lines have been memorized with most extreme care,
all for the love of a character and a story to share.
The actors are nestled all snug in their beds,
while lines and blocking run on in their heads.
A-waiting the audience to give big claps
for a moving performance, one without naps.
When in their heads, oh what is the matter?
the actor's nightmare! making confidence shatter.
New costumes, new blocking, why don't you know
we're changed it entirely, the night of the show!
You're now playing this, and that prop goes here
we've just changed it all, there's nothing to fear.
The actor's confused, no one gives a frick
and all of a sudden everyone's being a big dick.
You're performance is terrible, they boo your name
crushing all hopes of glory and fame.
When suddenly, ah yes, it was all a dream!
aspirations no longer tattered at the seam.
The actors sit up, once more in their bed
realizing, oh, the nightmare's all in your head.
When who should appear in a voice not the least bit brute
exclaiming with eloquence, poise, and presence to boot.
But Sir Ian McKellen, in a voice that's just right:
"Happy opening to all, and to all a good night!"