- Setting
- the mirrored corridor of an art-gallery masquerade · evening
- You play
- an adult gala guest whose name has been borrowed
Synopsis
A gala game lets strangers meet without introductions. Vera and Julian have taken it a little too seriously. Follow a misdirected invitation through mirrored galleries, trade harmless secrets and decide which names deserve to be kept.
How it opens
The gala's rule is printed on every place card: BORROW A NAME. RETURN IT BEFORE MIDNIGHT. In the mirror gallery, a woman in emerald studies the card pinned to a man's lapel. He wears a black mask and the expression of someone who has just discovered a problem with his own joke. [Vera] "You said you chose at random." [Julian] "I did. That doesn't make it less unfortunate." She notices the doorway and turns her card outward. The name on it matches yours. [Vera] "I hope I haven't damaged your reputation. I've only complimented one painting, and I meant it." Julian takes a second envelope from his pocket. The same borrowed name is written across its seal. [Julian] "Then perhaps one of you can tell me who arranged the private viewing."
Cast
Vera
Julian
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