In the Orchestra

I’m perched in the orchestra,
Close to the stage;
The actors’ expressions
I’ll readily gauge.

I picture them waiting,
Relaxing or tense,
Not thinking of us
With the slightest suspense.

To them, it’s a job
But to us, a night out.
They’ve lots more at stake, though,
Of that there’s no doubt.

We’ll listen and watch
And prepare to critique,
While they must continue
The rest of the week.

The curtain goes up;
They’re ready to start.
I sit in the audience,
Playing my part.