Page 36 - American Girl (January - February 2019)
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Gilby was right. Hannah is a total brainiac. She “We were at the back of the auditorium today, and
usually raises her hand before the teacher even we couldn’t hear you either,” I told her.
finishes asking a question. I was just being honest, but Abby looked hurt.
Hannah didn’t seem convinced, though. We Her house is closest to the bus stop, and when we all
were supposed to practice our parts in the back of got off, she barely said good-bye. We watched Abby
the auditorium when it wasn’t our turn onstage, but disappear behind her front door, and then Gilby
Hannah did homework or read. Gilby and I alter- turned to us. “I’ve got a great idea!” She wanted to
nated between practicing and watching Abby, who make a huge poster that read “Abby as Alice rocks!”
was always onstage because she was in every scene. to tape up at the back of the auditorium.
Mrs. Evitable had a lot of what she called “helpful Hannah and I spent Saturday afternoon helping
hints” for Abby. Gilby on the poster. Gilby drew all these incredible
“Slow down, dear,” Mrs. Evitable would call out. scenes of Wonderland around the words. Then we
“Speak clearly. Sing loudly. Remember to face the painted the poster with bright colors and put glitter
audience so we can hear you.” over the wet paint. Monday at rehearsal we surprised
“Abby looks really annoyed,” Gilby whispered to Abby with it. “When you see this, you’ll remember
me. the people in the back rows who need to hear you,
Sure enough, Mrs. Evitable’s helpful hints came too,” Gilby explained.
up at the Truth Club. “The truth is, this musical isn’t Abby beamed. “Thanks, you guys!”
turning out to be nearly as much fun as I expected,” Mrs. Evitable walked over just as we were putting
Abby said. “Mrs. Evitable is always picking on me.” the poster up. Oh, no, I thought. She’s going to tell us
“She’s just giving you constructive criticism,” said it won’t be fair to the other actors if Abby gets a special
Hannah. sign. But instead she asked, “Did you draw all this?”
“But I am speaking loudly and clearly. Frankie, She was so impressed that she put Gilby in charge
what do you think?” of set design. Gilby drew enormous versions of all
34 americangirlmagazine.com
