Sub plot - Sue

As they planned the circus workshops, they became aware of a figure loitering in the wings.  Martin passed a scribbled note,” TAT”? Charlotte nodded and they exchanged complicit grins and grimaces, each slightly ashamed of the derogative shorthand reference.

“TAT” was their private name for Lila. It encompassed the way she dressed and the one bit of advice she had given to Charlotte about circus success – show tits and teeth. Of recent times, in growing realisation of her status and influence as star aerial performer and owner’s daughter, they had named their new “Target Areas for Tactics” list, in her honour, the purpose of which was to help them develop a game plan for full acceptance into the circus community.

Whilst complicit, their reactions stemmed from different thoughts. Charlotte was in awe of Lila’s talents, envious of her born to the circus life and surety of place within it. In Lila’s presence, she became aware of her comparative dowdiness and knew that as a defence mechanism, she played upon Lila’s inability to string a sentence together and her lack of knowledge about the “outside world”. Martin saw Lila as a threat and an obstacle to his growing rapport with Max (author note – Max is the circus owner). Of recent times he had become flattered but concerned about Lila’s apparent interest in him.  She kept approaching him in isolated places, on the pretext of asking about his teaching experience. He had not, as yet, told Charlotte about these “chance” conversations.

Lila hung back, hoping to remain invisible, whilst listening and learning how they planned educational workshops. As she sensed that they knew she was there, she tugged down her short skirt, scooped her hair back, took a deep breath, and then strutted confidently into their view.

Sub- plot – Lila is born and bred into circus life and excels in it ..but she has an opposing strong desire to break out, get qualifications, broaden her horizons and be respected and accepted in the “real world”. Lila can thus provide a possible reverse mirror image and contrast of Charlotte and Martin’s desires .. and possible consequences of leaving their accepted outwardly successful “ real worlds” to be accepted into circus life.., or of seeking a compromise that works.