Page 78 of The Silent Appeal

Subject: Last night’s rehearsal!

Hiya Kevin!

OMG! Nicky-Rose was SO inspiring last night! That bit where I was standing behind the settee and she told me to move in front of it and sit to the side, so I could look over my shoulder, and when I pulled a face at John and Veronica flirting, the audience would see it, but none of the characters would. Even YOU didn’t think to do it like that!

Then when Lady Angkatell picks up the basket of eggs and is about to leave John and Veronica alone, Nicky-Rose suggested she hesitate slightly, because she enjoys the drama and is determined to cause trouble, as she’s basically a psychopath. Fran would never have thought like that, but when she did it—whoosh! The whole scene took on a new meaning! I was so excited last night I spent an hour learning my lines when I got in! I’m almost word-perfect!

Joyce said NR’s been working on cruise ships for years. Well, the plays on cruise ships must be THE BEST because she’s transformed The Hollow in just a couple of hours.

Can you give me Nicky-Rose’s email address, please? I’d love to thank her personally for all her help and let her know how I’m developing my character. I overheard her talking to Beth, who asked if she’s taught acting before. She said no, she’s taught dancing to pay the bills but not acting.

I’ve never tried dance classes, but only because there’s never been any near me. Also, I’m a bit old for ballet or tap. I wonder if Nicky-Rose would start dance classes at the hall? If she did, I’d definitely go.

Did you notice that Fran disappeared during tea break? Just like last week. Where does she go? It’s not like she smokes or vapes. It’s possible she’s going outside to text without anyone looking over her shoulder, but I went to the loo to see if she was there, or in the foyer or just outside the double doors, and couldn’t find her. She’d gone completely. She wasn’t in her car or on that little patch of grass outside. It was totally dark, silent (and cold!) out there. She reappeared just as rehearsal started again.

I know she has a problem with her emails that stops her seeing mine, else I’d ask her myself. I only hope she’s okay.

Will Nicky-Rose be at rehearsal next week? Love Issy xxx

To: Isabel Beck

From: Kevin MacDonald

Date: February 11, 2025

Subject: Re: Last night’s rehearsal!

Hi Issy,

No problem, Nicky-Rose’s contact card is attached. Yes, she had a lot to say about the play. All good.

Forgot to mention last night, but I’ve spoken to Emma about making a sculpture of you. Two actually: one big, one small. Assume you’ll have to “sit” for her, or something. I’ve given her your details. She’ll be in touch if she needs anything. Kevin

[Contact card: Nicky-Rose Dearing]

Message exchange between Nicky-Rose Dearing and Kevin MacDonald on February 11, 2025:

10:34 a.m. Nicky-Rose wrote:

You want the audience to study the characters and try to work out who’s guilty, so give them lots to study with each one—even Doris and Gudgeon. We need to suspect everybody.

10:35 a.m. Kevin wrote:

Yep. Thanks.

10:35 a.m. Nicky-Rose wrote:

Have you thought about placing the couch off-center?

10:36 a.m. Kevin wrote:

It’s the “star” of the set. Surely it should be center stage?

10:37 a.m. Nicky-Rose wrote:

No. The patio doors are star of the set. At the moment they are too far right.

10:37 a.m. Kevin wrote: