The lights have dimmed (well, not at 4 PM; but we can imagine). The audience is hush (well, not really; not with that much liquor). And the curtain is about to go up. That's true. The fund-raiser is about to begin, and the loyal, well-heeled crowd of The Palace are stepping out of their carriages now. Satin slippers and silk caped are gracefully gliding up the staircase. Gloved hands whisperly wave and curls are toyed with.

Another show is about to begin.