Esme stood in the wings and trembled with excitement as she heard the opening bars of the Infernal Gallop. Only another few seconds and the dancing – the swirling, the pointy-toed leg flicks and the swishing of skirts – would start to the famous can-can music. She and her friends had practised so hard for this moment!
Between high-kicks, Esme remembered their reactions the first time Gertrude had mooted the idea. “I know what we can do for the anniversary show,” she said – and after a short pause for effect – continued, “. . . The can-can!”
Beattie had spluttered up a considerable amount of coffee. Marie recovered more quickly. “The can-can with support hose and sensible bras? Are you sure?”