Drama: A Graphic Novel

This act opens with a few pages filled with panels depicting Callie’s feverish work on the cannon stage prop. The prop has been built, but Callie has yet to perfect the explosion effect. Mr. Madera warns her that she has eight days to get the cannon functioning—and then it will be opening night. Callie promises not to let him or the production down.

Later, at dress rehearsal, West is seen coughing, while Bonnie exasperatedly asks if she’ll still be expected to kiss him if he’s sick. Callie’s cannon is still not functioning properly, but she continues to assure everyone that she’ll get it to work. Loren also informs the crew that they must help the cast publicize the play, as ticket sales are looking dismal. Callie then goes home and stays up so late working on the cannon that she falls asleep in her garage with it.

Another day, the cast and crew have decided to mount a preview of the play during the lunch period, as a way to boost ticket sales. Before Bonnie and some other singers can do their part, though, Callie accidentally sets off the cannon, and it blows confetti everywhere in a mighty blast. Soon, everyone is emptying the cafeteria before the singers can even do their number. Confused, Callie and the others follow the crowd—only to find out that the students, utterly convinced by the cannon alone, have flocked to the auditorium in order to purchase tickets to the show. Jesse hugs Callie with gratefulness and glee.