SCENE ONE – EXT. NEW YORK CITY – ROCKEFELLER CENTER – SKATING RINK
Christmas music is playing from speakers around the rink. The skaters are laughing and chatting while they are enjoying their time on the ice. Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Brianna, Sam, and Jaxon enter the rink for their night out. Jaxon makes a statement about needing a walker for skating and gets made fun of by his peers.
SCENE TWO – EXT. NEW YORK CITY – ROCKEFELLER CENTER – SKATING RINK
LIV, ARIA, SKYLAR, BRIANNA, and JAXON all skate ahead of SAM and LOLA.
While SAM and LOLA are skating hand in hand, SAM notices that she seems a little down.
SAM: Hey, is everything okay?
LOLA: Yeah. I’m good.
SAM: You’re lying.
LOLA sighs.
SAM: It’s because everyone else crashed our date, isn’t it?
LOLA: No, I told you it was fine. I wanted them to come.
SAM: So what’s bothering you?
LOLA: My family wants to go to Aspen for Christmas.
SAM: Oh. So what do you think?
LOLA: I think that’s great, but I guess I’m not really used to family plans for holidays. We haven’t been together in years.
SAM: I get that. So do you think you’re gonna go?
LOLA: I don’t know yet. It’s our first Christmas together and I don’t want to miss that either. I also promised Bri that I would help her with the show and I don’t plan on breaking that promise.
SAM: That’s fair.
SAM and LOLA skate to the side of the rink to take a break.
LOLA: You know, I could join them after the show.
SAM: I think that’s a great idea. That way you can be with them on Christmas.
LOLA: Would you like to come with me?
SAM: Oh, I don’t want to intrude.
LOLA: You wouldn’t be. My family loves you.
SAM smirks at the thought.
SAM: I suppose it could be fun to snowboard there.
LOLA: It could. I guess it’s never too late to learn.
SAM: For you it is.
LOLA: What’s that supposed to mean?
SAM: That you almost got seriously injured the last time I tried to teach you how to skateboard. We don’t need any tragic snowboarding incidents in the Aspen mountains this Christmas.
LOLA: It hurts that you doubt me.
SAM: I’m just trying to keep you safe.
LOLA: And that’s very sweet, but you know I’m not one to back down from a challenge.
SAM: Believe me, I know.
LOLA briefly stares at SAM flirtatiously which causes him to fold.
SAM: Fine. I will teach you everything you know.
LOLA smiles.
LOLA: Yay.
SAM: But I’m not taking the heat from your dad or your sister if you get hurt again.
LOLA: Fair enough.
LOLA kisses SAM before she skates off.
Shortly after, JAXON skates over to him while pushing his walker and struggling to balance himself.
SAM stifles his laughter.
SAM: You having fun there, Jax?
JAXON: I really don’t know how people do this. So many people do it so effortlessly.
SAM: It takes practice, my friend.
JAXON: I think I’ll take my skateboard anyday. But for now, I’m trading it for my snowboard.
SAM: Speaking of which, guess who just got invited to go to Aspen with Lola and her family for Christmas?
JAXON: Oh wow. That’s awesome, dude.
SAM: I know. But part of me feels kind of bad.
JAXON: For what?
SAM doesn’t respond, but JAXON understands what he means.
JAXON: I know we’ve spent the past few Christmases together so that we wouldn’t be alone, but things are different now. We have a great group of friends and amazing girlfriends.
SAM and JAXON smile at LIV and LOLA doing tricks together and smiling.
SAM: Yeah. We did get pretty lucky, didn’t we?
JAXON: Yes we did.
SAM and JAXON skate back out onto the ice.
SCENE THREE – INT. SKYLAR AND APARTMENT – BRIANNA’S BEDROOM
BRIANNA is up late getting things ready for the show.
SKYLAR enters the room.
SKYLAR: Hey, you’re up late.
BRIANNA continues to type on her laptop as she converses with her.
BRIANNA: Yeah, I was just getting some last minute things done for the show since we have the toy drive tomorrow.
SKYLAR watches BRIANNA cautiously as she types quickly on her laptop with a face of determination.
SKYLAR: Bri, you’re spiraling.
BRIANNA: No, this is just what it looks like when I work.
BRIANNA continues to type.
SKYLAR slowly approaches her and gently closes the laptop.
BRIANNA: What did you do that for?
SKYLAR: Your own good.
BRIANNA sighs.
SKYLAR: I know that this production is a big deal for you, but you have to remember to have fun. That’s what this is all about.
BRIANNA: You know what, you’re right. Thank you. I needed that.
SKYLAR: No problem.
SKYLAR moves to sit next to BRIANNA on her bed and takes her laptop from her.
BRIANNA: What are you doing?
SKYLAR: What I said I was going to do. I’m helping you. That way you can get some sleep.
BRIANNA: Sky, you don’t have to do that.
SKYLAR: I want to.
SKYLAR opens up the laptop.
BRIANNA grins.
SKYLAR and BRIANNA work together to finish all of the work for the night.
SCENE FOUR – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The gym is set up for the toy drive. The L&Os are helping to wrap the remaining gifts for the kids. Lola, Liv, Aria, and Skylar are sitting at a long table next to each other wrapping the gifts. Brianna thanks them again for their help. Aria reassures her that they are happy to help. She turns around to see Sam and Jaxon riding in kids cars doing 360s. Aria turns back around. “Some of us are a little too happy.” The girls all look back at them amused before they continue wrapping.
SCENE FIVE – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM/LOCKER ROOM HALLWAY
BRIANNA is beginning to place some presents out on the empty tables when she hears the door open.
STELLA’s footsteps can be heard before she comes into view of the camera.
STELLA: Is there anything I can do to help?
BRIANNA freezes momentarily when she hears her voice. She turns to face her and glances over at her friends to see if they’ve noticed her arrival. While they were all distracted, BRIANNA pulls STELLA into the hallway that leads to the locker rooms.
BRIANNA: Look, I’ve been doing everything I can to be civil around you because my friends believe that I should. But I gotta say, you popping up whenever you please is really starting to piss me off.
STELLA: I don’t know how many times I have to apologize for what I did before you finally take me seriously. I get that you want to protect your friends, but I promise you I’m not a threat. I’m here to help.
JADA exits the women’s locker room and approaches them.
BRIANNA: Well I appreciate you coming down here, but your services are not needed, so—
JADA: Hey, Stella. Thanks for coming.
STELLA: My pleasure.
BRIANNA’s eyes narrow in Stella’s direction.
JADA is quick to pick up on the tension between the two.
JADA: I’m sorry. Do you two know each other?
STELLA: We do.
JADA: Oh. Small world. Well, it’s nice to have one of Bri’s friends on board.
BRIANNA: What are you talking about?
JADA: Stella’s our newest hire. Welcome to The Rec Room.
STELLA: Thank you.
BRIANNA’s mouth is partially agape in disbelief.
JADA: Would you give us a moment please, Stella?
STELLA: Of course.
STELLA exits the hallway.
JADA: Okay, what’s up?
BRIANNA: You hired Stella Marshall. That’s what’s up.
JADA: Look, we were short on time and her resume was by far the most impressive.
BRIANNA: Well did her resume also include her cyberbullying her former co-workers? No, of course not. Because then you would know that she shouldn’t be working around kids.
JADA: B, I’m sorry about what happened to you and your friends. But she seems like she’s really trying to make things right here. And I know you won’t admit it, but you need all the help you can get.
BRIANNA rolls her eyes.
JADA: And at the end of the day, we have to remember that this is for the kids. We’re always telling them to put their differences aside and figure out a way to get along. Don’t you think it’s time that we practice what we preach?
BRIANNA takes a deep breath.
SCENE SIX – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM/STAGE
Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Stella, Sam, Jaxon, and Jada are all sitting and eating pizza near the stage. Brianna walks up on the stage with her clipboard to talk about some of the details regarding the show and everyone’s roles. She shares that the Rec Room kids will be putting on a musical production inspired by “The Greatest Showman” with some help from some of the Sapphire performers. Lola is tasked with being Brianna’s assistant director. Liv takes the lead as the costume designer. Aria is the vocal coach and choreographer. Sam is in charge of the crew as the stage manager while Jaxon works on the sets. Skylar is in charge of promotion and Stella is given miscellaneous tasks behind the scenes. Brianna thanks and dismisses everyone.
SCENE SEVEN – INT. L&O HEADQUARTERS – JAXON’S OFFICE
JAXON is sitting at his desk sketching some set design ideas in his sketchbook.
LIV knocks on the door.
JAXON: Come in.
LIV enters.
JAXON sees her and smiles.
JAXON: Hey.
LIV: Hi.
JAXON stands and goes to hug her.
JAXON: I’m glad you stopped by. I was going to come by in a little bit to see if you wanted to grab some lunch.
LIV: I would, but I can’t. I have to pick up some fabric for the costumes for the show.
JAXON: Oh, well that’s okay.
LIV: It’s really not. I feel like I’ve seen my sewing machine more than I’ve seen you.
JAXON: I get it. These last few days have been crazy busy. I’ve barely had time to eat.
LIV: Speaking of, I was hoping that you could pencil in some time for a dinner.
JAXON: Say less. We’re long overdue for a date.
LIV: I agree, but this dinner isn’t exactly a date. My parents are in town.
JAXON: Oh.
LIV: And my dad would really like to meet you.
JAXON: Sounds good.
LIV: Actually not so good.
JAXON: What do you mean?
LIV: That my dad’s not the easiest person in the room to get along with. He can be very cold at times.
JAXON: I appreciate the warning, but it’ll be fine. I can handle it.
LIV: Are you sure?
JAXON: Absolutely. Anything for you.
LIV and JAXON kiss.
SCENE EIGHT – INT. L&O HEADQUARTERS – SKYLAR’S OFFICE
SKYLAR is shooting a promotional video for the show on her phone with her tripod. She stops the recording to view the footage.
SIENNA is sitting on the couch.
SIENNA: I think that was the one.
SKYLAR: I think so too.
SIENNA: I never thought I’d see the day that my sister would be involved in theater.
SKYLAR: Hardly. And it’s not like I’m actually in the show. My job is to pack the place.
SIENNA: And you think you can do it?
SKYLAR: Absolutely. I just have to get the right people to be on stage.
SKYLAR smirks.
SCENE NINE – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The auditions are underway for the production. There are many Rec Room kids that show up to participate in the show, both in the cast and crew. Aria leads the kids through a small dance intensive with Brianna, Lola, and Sam watching to see who should be featured as soloists and who should be in the ensemble. Stella is assigned the job to assemble the new vanities for the backstage area for the cast. Her expression gives off a small amount of displeasure in the tedious task, but she continues.
Once the kids’ audition is over, the Sapphire performers are all brought in to join them. Dominic, Brielle, and Michael are all noteworthy performers among the group.
During the audition process, one of the newer performers stands out among them. Lola, Brianna, and Sam chat briefly when Brianna inquires about who she is. Lola tells her that the performer is Elle Foster, Sapphire’s newest rising star.
SCENE TEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The gym is now cleared out after the auditions, leaving Brianna, Lola, and Sam the space to make the casting decisions. Dominic is given the part of P.T. Barnum. Brielle and Michael are cast as Philip and Anne. Elle is cast as Charity Barnum. The remaining lead roles are given to other Sapphire performers.
When Lola leaves to head back to Rose, Sam and Brianna remain in the gym to have a private discussion. Brianna asks him if he’s really okay with Dominic being in the production. Sam questions why until he comes to a realization. He reassures Brianna that he’s completely fine with him and Lola working together because they’re friends. Brianna confirms that she only asked because she didn’t want the show derailed by anything, especially drama. Sam says that he understands.
SCENE ELEVEN – INT. RH NEW YORK
LIV, JAXON, and OLIVER are sitting at a table.
OLIVER: I’m sorry that your mother couldn’t make it.
LIV: It’s fine.
OLIVER: But it does give me a chance to catch up on everything I’ve missed.
LIV: I wouldn’t even know where to begin.
JAXON: Tell me about it.
OLIVER: From what I’ve heard, you all were involved in some slandering scandal because of one of your former co-workers?
JAXON: Yeah. That was quite a story.
OLIVER: I see. And then you all got to spend this past summer in Montecito?
LIV: We did.
OLIVER: I’m sure it felt good to be home.
LIV: That’s not exactly how I would describe it considering the fact that I didn’t really leave things on good terms.
OLIVER: I know. I remember that.
LIV: Kind of hard to forget it.
There is a brief moment of tense and awkward silence at the table.
LIV clears her throat.
LIV: Um, I’m going to run to the restroom. I’ll be right back.
JAXON: Okay.
LIV grabs her purse, stands, and exits.
JAXON attempts to break the ice.
JAXON: I’m really glad that we have the chance to get to know each other, Mr. Keaton.
OLIVER: Me too, considering the fact that I just found out about the two of you recently. My daughter’s been doing a pretty good job of hiding it.
JAXON: Well we had a lot of practice. We decided to keep our relationship out of the public eye for a while. Life has been pretty eventful for all of us this past year. But Liv has been amazing through it all.
OLIVER: I’m sure she has.
OLIVER: I will admit that I assumed when she told me she was dating someone that it was that TV star, Jaylin Thompson.
JAXON: Yeah, we were working with him for a while, but then things got complicated.
OLIVER: How so?
JAXON: I was tricked into believing that he was actively trying to pursue Liv despite knowing about our relationship and I did not take it well. But that’s all water under the bridge. We’re actually good friends now.
OLIVER: Whatever you have to tell yourself to sleep at night.
OLIVER sips his drink.
JAXON detects his tone.
JAXON: With all due respect, Mr. Keaton, you don’t know the first clue about anything that has happened to us.
OLIVER: You’re right. I don’t. But I do know that in light of everything that has happened, my daughter now feels the need to take self-defense classes just so that she can feel safe. And I’m starting to wonder if that’s because of you.
JAXON: That’s insane and not true.
OLIVER: Is it? Because that video of you in that cafe tells me everything I need to know.
JAXON: That was a misunderstanding. I would never hurt Liv.
OLIVER lets out a sarcastic hum before he sips his drink again.
JAXON: If you have something to say, Mr. Keaton, say it.
OLIVER sets down his glass and gives Jaxon a cold stare.
OLIVER: I don’t want you dating my daughter.
JAXON stays frozen for a moment but quickly straightens up when he sees LIV approaching the table.
LIV sits and picks up her menu.
THE WAITER approaches their table.
THE WAITER: Are we ready to order?
LIV: Yes, I believe so.
THE WAITER: Alright. I will start with you, miss.
LIV: Okay.
As LIV orders her food, JAXON and OLIVER share a quick glare at each other over their menus.
SCENE TWELVE – INT. SAPPHIRE ENTERTAINMENT – THEATER – STAGE
DOMINIC is practicing “A Million Dreams” on the piano.
LOLA enters from backstage and watches him in awe from side stage.
LOLA: Someone’s an early riser.
DOMINIC looks back at her and smiles.
DOMINIC: Oh, hey.
LOLA walks out onto the stage.
DOMINIC: What are you doing here?
LOLA: My job. As an assistant director, I like to know my actors’ whereabouts.
LOLA stands near the piano.
DOMINIC is amused.
DOMINIC: Do you know anything about directing a stage production?
LOLA: No, but I think we’re all stepping outside our comfort zones lately.
DOMINIC: Tell me about it. I can’t believe that I agreed to be in this show. I don’t do musicals.
LOLA: Well there’s a first time for everything. So what’s all this about? You gonna pitch a piano solo to Bri or something?
DOMINIC: No, I was just getting comfortable with the source material. It may be a kids production, but it’s still a big deal to me and everyone here at Sapphire. Any stage time that we can get is good for us right now given the recent change of leadership around here.
LOLA: I get it. Well, I will let you get back to it.
DOMINIC: You can stay if you want.
LOLA: Really?
DOMINIC: Yeah. Maybe you can give me notes.
LOLA: Just like old times.
DOMINIC grins.
LOLA: But I’m not gonna coddle you.
DOMINIC: Of course not.
LOLA leans on the piano.
DOMINIC positions himself to play.
SCENE THIRTEEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
JAXON and WILL are bringing all of the sets in.
JAXON: Thanks again for the help, man.
WILL: Of course. They all turned out great.
JAXON: Thanks.
LIV enters.
WILL looks over at her.
WILL: Wow Liv, I hardly recognize you outside of the Fashion Closet.
LIV: And I hardly recognize you in clean clothes.
JAXON snickers.
WILL: Okay, ouch.
WILL continues to move the set he’s carrying to the backstage area.
LIV immediately senses that something is off due to JAXON’s lack of eye contact.
JAXON: I need to get this backstage.
LIV puts her hand out to stop him.
LIV: Wait.
JAXON pauses.
LIV: Is everything okay?
JAXON: Yeah. Why do you ask?
LIV: Because you’ve been acting weird ever since that dinner last night.
JAXON sighs in frustration.
LIV: Did something happen that I should know about?
JAXON: Nope.
LIV: Jaxon, I’m not stupid.
JAXON: I never said that you were.
LIV: My dad said something, didn’t he?
JAXON’s silence confirms Liv’s answer.
LIV turns and begins to make her way to the exit.
JAXON: What are you doing?
LIV stops to face him.
LIV: Going to get some answers since I can’t get them out of you.
LIV turns to continue walking.
JAXON: Your dad doesn’t want us to be together.
LIV abruptly turns to him with a somber expression.
JAXON approaches her slowly until they’re face to face.
JAXON: And I could live with that because I’m not the first guy that’s been told that by their girlfriend’s father, but it’s why he said it that really hurts.
LIV’s look on her face urges him to continue.
JAXON: He thinks that I’m going to hurt you.
LIV: What? That’s crazy.
JAXON: It’s really not when solid proof that I can is all over the internet.
LIV scoffs.
LIV: I can’t believe he’s using that against you. No one even cares about that anymore, including Jaylin.
JAXON: I know. But as a father, he has every right to be concerned about what happened. And the last thing I want to do is be the reason that things are tense between you two.
LIV: Things have been tense for the two of us for a long time now and that’s because of stuff like this. He only comes back into my life when he gets to play the overbearing parent and I can’t stand it.
LIV takes JAXON’s hands.
LIV: You can’t let one stupid mistake define you. You know that’s not who you are. The Jaxon that I know and love is the one who willingly sat at the remainder of that dinner last night with a smile on his face because he knew it was important to me.
JAXON grins.
LIV: Thank you for telling me.
LIV goes to grab a set piece to move.
JAXON: You don’t have to do that.
LIV: I want to. Besides, those self-defense classes have really been paying off.
JAXON: I can see that.
LIV heads towards the backstage area. JAXON follows.
SCENE FOURTEEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The first official show rehearsal is underway. Everyone is in the gym doing warmups with Aria. Jaxon is setting up some of the sets on the stage. Brianna and Lola are sitting together to watch. Skylar is busy filming BTS content of the rehearsal for the show promotion. Stella is setting up the snack table. Once warmups are concluded, Brianna does a role call for the main cast members, noting that Elle is not present. Dominic, Brielle, and Michael all make side comments that allude to the fact that her tardiness to rehearsals is common. Aria decides to continue with the rehearsal to honor everyone’s time.
During that time, Sam meets the kids who volunteer to be in the stage crew. The most notable one in the group is Kaden, a 13-year-old athlete with a hidden talent in dance. He makes a commentary about how he’d much rather be in the stage crew than humiliate himself on the stage, naturally prompting his peers to agree with him. Sam reiterates that it’s not necessarily a bad thing for them to put themselves out there at their age. Kaden dismisses him.
An hour passes and Aria is leading the group in what will be their “Come Alive” number. Elle enters the Rec Room nonchalantly catching Aria’s eye. She gives everyone their accolades and sends everyone off for a quick break before they resume their rehearsal. She approaches Elle with crossed arms noting the fact that she’s an hour late for rehearsal, she missed the warmup, and that they already started working on choreography. Elle makes an arrogant comment that she is already warmed up and a quick learner when it comes to choreography. Aria takes a deep breath before responding, reminding her that the kids are watching and it might be wise to lead by example. Before Elle can respond, she tells her to take her spot before she resumes the rehearsal.
SCENE FIFTEEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
Later that evening, the gym is cleared out following the rehearsal. SAM and KADEN are the last two to remain.
SAM is heading out with his things and sees that KADEN is sitting in the bleachers scrolling on his phone with his headphones on.
SAM: Oh Kaden, I didn’t know that you were still here.
KADEN removes his headphones.
KADEN: Yeah. My ride is a little late.
SAM: Okay. I can wait with you if you’d like.
KADEN: You don’t have to.
SAM: Are you sure?
KADEN: Yeah. They should be here soon.
SAM: Alright. Well, I will see you tomorrow then. And thanks for all your help today.
KADEN: No problem. See you tomorrow.
SAM exits.
KADEN remains in the bleachers and puts his headphones back on. He pulls up his “Greatest Showman” playlist on his phone and makes his way up to the stage. He turns on the stage lights and plugs his phone into the sound system. With a faint smile, he cues up the reimagined version of “Come Alive” and dances to Aria’s choreography flawlessly.
As the song continues, SAM re-enters The Rec Room and sees KADEN dancing. He stares at him in disbelief for a moment before smiling.
Once the song concludes, KADEN remains still to catch his breath.
SAM: Wow.
KADEN whips around to see SAM approaching him.
KADEN: I thought you left.
SAM: I left my phone backstage.
KADEN: How long have you been standing there?
SAM: Long enough to be impressed. What the heck are you doing on stage crew? You need to be front and center.
KADEN: I really don’t.
A flustered KADEN quickly unplugs his phone and grabs Sam’s from nearby before exiting the stage and joining Sam on the gym floor.
SAM: Kaden, you have a talent here that’s far from humiliating. If Bri and Lola saw you dancing like that, they would put you in the show.
KADEN: That’s the problem.
KADEN hands SAM his phone.
SAM: How so?
KADEN softly sighs.
KADEN: I know it may not seem like a big deal to you, but I’m one of the top athletes in this place and I’ve earned a lot of respect because of it. If I get up on stage and show people what I can do, I could lose it. You know my friends. They’ll laugh at me.
SAM: Well maybe they’re not really your friends if you don’t think they’ll cheer you on.
KADEN contemplates Sam’s response.
SAM: Look, I can’t make you do anything. I can only encourage you. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be The Rec Room’s next Troy Bolton.
KADEN: Who?
SAM presses his lips together in a thin line.
SAM: Never mind.
Kaden’s phone rings.
KADEN glances at the phone.
KADEN: My ride’s here. I should go.
SAM: Of course.
KADEN runs over to grab his stuff from the bleachers.
KADEN: Bye Sam.
SAM: Bye Kaden.
KADEN exits.
SCENE SIXTEEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The next morning, SAM is filling BRIANNA and LOLA in on what occurred the night before.
SAM: I’m telling you guys that the boy has real talent. And the fact that he’s keeping it a secret is criminal.
LOLA: He’s a 13-year-old boy, Sam. You remember what it’s like to be that age. Image is everything and if he wants to be known for his athleticism, let him.
BRIANNA: Lo’s right. I would love for him to be a featured dancer, but if he doesn’t want to do it, I’m afraid my hands are tied.
SAM: But—
BRIANNA: Don’t push.
BRIANNA walks away, leaving SAM and LOLA.
LOLA: You’re not gonna give up on him, are you?
SAM: You know I can’t. Not yet.
LOLA kisses SAM on the cheek.
LOLA: And that is one of the many reasons I love you.
SAM blushes.
ARIA calls all of the performers to the gym floor.
ARIA: Alright guys, let’s get started.
ARIA notices ELLE in the group.
Once all of the performers are together, ARIA begins to demonstrate some new choreography for the “This Is Me” number. After a few hours, the initial run through of it is a little rough with some of the kids messing up and joking about it, much to Elle’s dismay.
ARIA: Okay, clearly more rehearsal is needed. I will see you guys tomorrow.
ELLE rolls her eyes.
As everyone starts to disperse, ARIA approaches her.
ARIA: Elle, do you have a second to talk?
ELLE: That’s all I have, so talk fast.
ARIA: Okay then. Look, I think it’s time that we address the elephant in the room.
ELLE: And what would that be?
ARIA: Your attitude and the way that it’s affecting this production.
ELLE: Excuse me?
ARIA: Yes, you are very talented and everyone here can see it without you having to remind us every five seconds.
ELLE: Well I’m sorry. This performance is in five days and it seems like I’m the only one who is taking it seriously.
ARIA: Because at the end of the day, this is primarily a kids’ production and the most important thing to them is that they have fun.
ELLE: I didn’t sign to Sapphire to have fun.
ARIA: And that right there must just be the problem.
ELLE: You don’t know anything about me, Aria.
ARIA: You’re right. I don’t. But I do know all about the pressure and what that can do to a person.
ELLE: Exactly. Before I came to Sapphire, I was in a really dark place and I sabotaged my entire career before it even began. Thankfully, I was lucky enough that Sebastian gave me a second chance to prove that I could be a team player which is why I got involved in this production in the first place.
ARIA: I know the feeling. That’s actually very similar to how I started at Rose too.
ELLE: I know, which is why I wanted to learn from you.
ARIA: You did?
ELLE: Yes.
ARIA: Well then let’s make a deal. I will help you learn how to be a team player if you help me with some of the show’s choreography. I think we can make it something really special.
ELLE grins.
ELLE: Deal.
ARIA smiles at her.
SCENE SEVENTEEN – NEW YORK CITY – INT. HOTEL ROOM
OLIVER is working at the desk until he hears a knock on the door and goes to open it.
LIV is on the other side with a sour look on her face.
OLIVER: Olivia. This is a nice surprise. Come in.
LIV enters.
OLIVER closes the door and faces her.
LIV: I can’t stay long.
OLIVER comes face to face with LIV.
OLIVER: I figured. I’m sure you’re very busy with the show. I can’t wait to see it.
LIV: I don’t know if that’s the best idea.
OLIVER: Why not?
LIV: You just can’t help yourself, can you?
OLIVER: What are you talking about?
LIV: I’m talking about what you said to Jaxon at that dinner.
OLIVER sighs and avoids eye contact with her.
LIV: Did you seriously think I wouldn’t find out?
OLIVER: I know that my opinion is pretty much unsolicited at this point, but I can’t say I’m not worried. I feel like I don’t even know you anymore. You’ve changed.
LIV: That would be true. I changed for the better. I don’t need to cheat to get ahead. I’m not perfect, but I’m stronger than I’ve ever been despite all of the crap that life has thrown my way.
OLIVER: I just want what’s best for you.
LIV: And that’s exactly what I have and what I long to have with you. I would love for the two of us to start over again, but in order for us to do that, we have to be honest with ourselves and each other.
OLIVER: You’re right. And you are so much wiser than when I was your age. I’m sorry that I wasn’t the father that you deserve, but I’m willing to do whatever it takes to earn back your trust.
LIV embraces her father tightly.
LIV: That means more to me than you know. But I’m not the only one you owe an apology to.
SCENE EIGHTEEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
Later that evening, Aria and Elle are standing together on the stage. Aria vocalizes her vision for the “Rewrite the Stars” number and how she wants to approach it in a more contemporary way, but admits to not being particularly skilled in that area. Elle steps in and offers to show her a routine she had been playing around with. Aria is hesitant to do it because she’s nowhere near Elle’s level of performing. Elle reassures that she’ll take it easy on her. She begins to show Aria the steps. After a few run throughs, they try the number from the beginning. The chemistry between the two begins to build as the number progresses. When the song concludes, the two remain in their finishing position for a few moments to catch their breath. Elle breaks first and asks Aria what she thinks. Aria snaps out of her daze and says that she thinks they have their “Rewrite the Stars” choreography. Elle asks if Aria wants to grab dinner. Aria quickly responds, telling her that she already had plans with Liv and asks for a rain check. Elle accepts. Aria thanks her again for her help and leaves the stage to grab her things to head out. Once she’s gone, Elle appears to be a bit defeated.
SCENE NINETEEN – EXT. KADEN’S FIRE ESCAPE/INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
KADEN is sitting on his fire escape staring out at the city. He imagines himself standing on The Rec Room stage singing “A Million Dreams (Reprise)”.
The scene flashes back to him singing the last line of the song quietly on the fire escape, clearly contemplating if his dreams are worth chasing after all.
SCENE TWENTY – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The next morning, all of the chairs are set up for the show as the gang prepares for their dress rehearsal that morning.
BRIANNA is standing on the stage with her clipboard going over her checklist.
SKYLAR enters carrying two coffees.
SKYLAR: Good morning.
BRIANNA looks up at her and smiles.
SKYLAR: You were out the door so early this morning.
BRIANNA: Yeah, I couldn’t sleep so I came here to iron out some last minute details.
SKYLAR: You’re still spiraling.
BRIANNA: That’s one word to describe it. My brain feels like it’s going to explode because part of me doesn’t want to take this production too seriously and have fun while the other knows that my entire reputation is on the line here.
SKYLAR walks up to the stage to join BRIANNA.
SKYLAR: And I get that. But for now, I think that you need to relax and have your morning coffee. We both know you’re no good without it.
BRIANNA takes a deep breath.
BRIANNA: You’re so right.
BRIANNA takes the coffee from SKYLAR and sips it.
BRIANNA: Hmm. That’s it. That’s what I needed.
SKYLAR: Great. Now what else do you need?
BRIANNA: Well my production assistant’s presence would be nice.
STELLA enters.
BRIANNA: Speak of the devil. Good morning, Stella.
STELLA: It was until I woke up to a text asking me to go all the way across town to pick up some vintage ticket booth. And since it wouldn’t fit in my car, I had to rent a truck at the last minute.
BRIANNA: Well, I’m sorry. But the deal popped up late last night and it was too good to refuse.
STELLA: I’m sure.
SKYLAR notices the growing tension and makes an attempt to dissolve it.
SKYLAR: Well thank you for going to get it. Do you need any help unloading it?
STELLA: No thanks. Sam and his crew are on top of it. Is there anything else that you need from me, Bri?
BRIANNA: Not at the moment, but I’ll let you know.
STELLA softly sighs and heads backstage.
BRIANNA continues to look at her list, completely oblivious to Skylar’s glare in her direction.
BRIANNA peers up at her after a few moments.
BRIANNA: What?
SKYLAR: Do I even have to say it?
BRIANNA: Yes. Because for once, I have no idea what you’re talking about.
SKYLAR: Look, I never thought in a million years that I would come to Stella’s defense, but despite everything that she did, she doesn’t deserve to be treated like an intern that’s here one week and gone the next.
BRIANNA: Really? Because I’ve been in this business long enough to know that if you pull stunts, you risk losing all of your credibility and go right back to the bottom. I have done everything that I can do to keep her involved in a way that won’t cause me to jeopardize this entire production. I’m grateful for her help, but sometimes it feels like it would be a lot easier to forgive her if she went back to Boston.
BRIANNA and SKYLAR head off the stage as the camera pans to STELLA listening side stage.
SCENE TWENTY ONE – INT. SAPPHIRE ENTERTAINMENT – REHEARSAL STUDIO 1
ELLE is practicing her solo in the studio.
LOLA enters.
LOLA: Hey.
ELLE turns to face her and pauses the music with the remote.
ELLE: Hi.
LOLA: I’m sorry to interrupt.
ELLE: No, it’s fine. I was just finishing up. I like to have one last rehearsal by myself on show day.
LOLA: I get that. I won’t keep you, but I wanted to commend you on this sudden turnaround. It’s certainly made a difference in the last few rehearsals.
ELLE: I have your friend Aria to thank for that. She reminded me why I got into this business. She’s pretty remarkable.
LOLA: I agree. Well I look forward to seeing the magic that you two created on stage tonight.
ELLE smiles faintly.
LOLA exits.
SCENE TWENTY TWO – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
STELLA is finishing setting up the ticket booth by the door.
ARIA enters.
ARIA: Oh hey.
STELLA: Hey.
ARIA: Wow. The ticket booth looks great.
STELLA: I’d hope so. Because if it doesn’t, Bri might kill me.
ARIA: What does that mean?
STELLA: That I’ve been working my off ass day and night to earn my way back onto this team and I have nothing to show for it.
ARIA: That’s not true.
STELLA: Really? Because it sure feels like it. I hate myself for what I did. And I wish that I could take it back, but I can’t. And I don’t know how much longer I’m going to be able to handle trying to prove myself to someone who probably wishes that I would disappear off the face of the Earth.
ARIA: Brianna doesn’t want that, okay? She’s made it very clear that she’s just being vigilant.
STELLA scoffs.
STELLA: Yeah, well a lot can go wrong when a journalist gets too vigilant.
STELLA walks off, leaving ARIA there.
SCENE TWENTY THREE – INT. L&O HEADQUARTERS – FASHION CLOSET
BRIANNA is standing on the pedestal for her final fitting of her outfit for the show.
LIV is finishing hemming her dress.
BRIANNA: I can’t thank you enough for doing this.
LIV: Oh, I don’t mind.
BRIANNA: You and your team did such an incredible job with the costumes. I know it means a lot to the kids.
LIV: It was fun. A nice change from my usual styling for work.
BRIANNA: Did you work things out with your dad?
LIV: I think so.
BRIANNA: Good.
ARIA enters.
ARIA: Hey.
BRIANNA turns to face her.
BRIANNA: Hey. I thought you were at the center.
ARIA: I was, where I had a very enlightening conversation with Stella.
BRIANNA rolls her eyes.
BRIANNA: So she came crying to you? Leave it to her to make me look like the villain.
LIV appears to be visibly disappointed as she continues hemming.
ARIA: Stella’s not the problem here, Bri. You are.
BRIANNA raises her eyebrows.
BRIANNA: She’s the one that wanted to help with this production, but I’m getting crap for actually giving her jobs? Mind you, she joined the crew at the last minute when everyone else had already been assigned their roles.
ARIA: This isn’t just about the show. You’re paranoid.
BRIANNA glances down at LIV, whose silence speaks for itself.
BRIANNA: So I’m guessing that you all feel this way.
ARIA: Kind of.
ARIA slowly approaches her.
ARIA: I know that this is difficult and it’s going to take some time and effort to come to a resolution, but I think this is something we should all face together. And if we’re wrong and she’s up to her old tricks, then we’ll face that too.
BRIANNA softly sighs.
BRIANNA: Does it get old being right all the time?
ARIA smirks.
ARIA: No.
LIV chuckles.
SCENE TWENTY FOUR – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
STELLA is placing all of the chairs in front of the vanities that are neatly organized with everyone’s personal cosmetic items.
BRIANNA enters, quietly admiring Stella’s work.
BRIANNA: Wow. This is amazing.
STELLA: Are you sure you don’t want me to do it all again and put everyone next to each other in alphabetical order or something?
BRIANNA: Actually, that might be nice.
STELLA purses her lips.
BRIANNA: I’m kidding.
STELLA: Kind of hard to tell with you.
BRIANNA: Look, I can admit that I have not treated you fairly. I appreciate everything that you’ve done for this production. It’s clear that you’re trying to make an effort here, so I think that we should put the past behind us and figure out a way to move forward.
STELLA: Really?
BRIANNA: Really.
BRIANNA and STELLA smile.
JAXON creeps in, hesitant to enter.
JAXON: Is it safe to come back here or should I duck and cover?
BRIANNA: It’s alright, Jax.
LOLA, LIV, ARIA, SKYLAR, and SAM enter.
BRIANNA, STELLA, LOLA, LIV, ARIA, SKYLAR, SAM, and JAXON all form a circle.
BRIANNA: I wanted to thank you all again for everything you’ve done to help make this show a success. And thanks to Sky, we have a full house coming tonight.
BRIANNA, STELLA, LOLA, LIV, ARIA, SAM, and JAXON cheer.
SKYLAR: Oh come on. It was not that hard.
LOLA: Really?
SKYLAR: Yeah, all I had to do was publicize that Jaxon was involved in the show.
LIV: Seriously?
SKYLAR: Yes. He has quite the little fan club that wants to come and see his work.
JAXON: You’re kidding, right?
SKYLAR: I would never. Although I’d admit this is very amusing.
JAXON: Well enjoy it while it lasts, Sky. Because I know for a fact that my five minutes of fame will be coming to an end very soon.
LOLA: But in the meantime, we are going to continue stepping out of our comfort zones and get our cast ready to perform.
STELLA, LOLA, LIV, ARIA, SKYLAR, SAM, and JAXON all look at BRIANNA and smile.
BRIANNA returns the smile.
BRIANNA: Let’s put on a show.
SCENE TWENTY FIVE – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
“The Greatest Show” starts. A montage of the cast and crew’s pre-show prep is featured. The cast is having their hair and makeup done by the Sapphire Hair & Makeup team. Liv is doing any last minute altercations on the costumes. Sam has Lola take a group picture of him, Kaden, and the other kids in the stage crew before they take their positions. The cast has a small vocal warm-up with Aria. The show attendees start to file in to take their seats, Oliver being one of them. Stella and Jaxon are at the ticket booth stamping tickets and greeting the attendees. Brianna gives the final call for the first group of performers to make their way to the stage. Skylar positions herself in front of the stage to take photos throughout the production with her camera. Lola signals to the stage crew to open up the curtain.
SCENE TWENTY SIX – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
The curtain opens. Dominic, Elle, Brielle, Michael, the Sapphire Ensemble, and the Rec Room kids perform “The Greatest Show”. Kaden is smiling during the performance as he works the lights. Lola, Brianna, Liv, Jaxon, Aria, and Stella are standing on either side of the stage watching the performance. When the song ends, they and the audience applaud and cheer. The cast bows and exits the stage as the stage lights go dark. Sam directs the stage crew kids to prepare for the next performance.
SCENE TWENTY SEVEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE/BACKSTAGE AREA
Two Rec Room kids perform “A Million Dreams”.
KADEN is watching the performance, secretly wishing that he had the courage to be on stage.
Kaden’s friend, XAVIER joins him on the controls and chuckles.
SAM casually observes the conversation from close by.
KADEN: Something amusing you, Xavier?
XAVIER: Oh just Dorian the Dork in his natural habitat.
KADEN shoots him a jarring glare.
KADEN: He’s genuinely talented and going places. Give him a break. Not everyone around here can be a sports prodigy like you.
XAVIER: Okay, chill. It was just a joke.
KADEN: Not a good one.
SAM approaches them.
SAM: Hey Xavier, you can take five. I’ll take over here.
XAVIER: Okay.
XAVIER exits.
DOMINIC and ELLE can be heard doing their part of “A Million Dreams” on stage in the background.
SAM: That was admirable.
KADEN: It was nothing.
SAM: I wouldn’t say that. Have you given any more thought to getting on stage tonight?
KADEN: I think it’s a little late for that.
SAM: Not necessarily.
KADEN: Sam, I don’t have a costume and I haven’t rehearsed the number with everyone else.
SAM: Well a little birdie told me that there just might be a costume and a “This Is Me” dance break with your name on it if you want it. Only if you want it.
Once SAM turns away, KADEN thinks for a moment and smirks.
SCENE TWENTY EIGHT – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
A FEMALE SAPPHIRE PERFORMER bows after her performance of “Never Enough”.
THE AUDIENCE applauds.
SCENE TWENTY NINE – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
THE CAST is finishing changing into their “This Is Me” costumes.
BRIANNA is holding her clipboard with the show setlist.
BRIANNA: Alright everyone, “This Is Me” is next. Positions, please.
THE CAST head towards the stage.
SCENE THIRTY – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
The cast performs “This Is Me”. Kaden joins them on stage for the number during the second chorus, passing by his stage crew friends in his costume. When they question what he’s doing, he simply replies with “Performing.” Sam is elated. Naturally, Kaden shines on stage, particularly during his dance break. The cast earns a standing ovation from the audience and the L&Os after the performance. Kaden looks over at Sam and his friends with a smile on his face. Sam and most of his friends applaud and cheer with the audience. Xavier is the last to do it, but finally offers him a supportive smile when he does.
SCENE THIRTY ONE – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
ELLE is in her “Tightrope” costume doing a quick warm-up with a ballet barre.
ARIA: Hey, can I interrupt for a second?
ELLE stops and turns to face her.
ELLE: Sure. What’s up?
ARIA: I just wanted to wish you luck before you go out there. Every number has been so incredible to watch so far, but I would be lying if I didn’t say that I’ve been really looking forward to your solo.
ELLE: Really?
ARIA: Yeah.
ELLE: Well, I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say that I’m not really looking forward to it.
ARIA: Why?
ELLE: Because then that means that this show is almost over and we will no longer be working together. You made me a better performer, Aria, and not just on the stage.
ARIA offers her a warm smile.
LIV enters and stops short when she sees the two talking.
ARIA: Maybe this doesn’t have to be the last time we work together. I think there’s something special here.
ELLE: I agree.
ARIA extends one of her hands for ELLE to shake.
ARIA: To a new partnership.
ELLE calmly shakes it.
ELLE: A new partnership.
LIV clears her throat, getting their attention.
ARIA: Oh hey, Liv. What’s up?
LIV slowly approaches them.
LIV: Sorry to interrupt—
ARIA and ELLE glance down and realize how long their handshake has lingered and both retreat hastily.
LIV: —but you’re up, Elle.
ELLE: Got it.
ARIA: Good luck.
ELLE: Thanks.
ELLE lightly jogs towards the stage.
ARIA gently fidgets with her hands.
LIV: Uh, what was that?
ARIA: What was what?
LIV: That little handhold.
ARIA: That was nothing.
LIV: Are you sure about that?
ARIA: Absolutely. We’re just friends.
LIV: Right.
ARIA: We are.
LIV: You know, you sound just like me when I started having feelings for Jax.
ARIA: That was different.
LIV: How?
ARIA: Because you knew exactly what you wanted back then and I’m still new at this. Honestly, it’s terrifying. And the thought of sharing my life with another person right now wasn’t exactly on my bingo card.
LIV: It never really is.
ARIA: Look, can we talk about this later? I don’t want to miss Elle’s performance.
LIV: Of course.
ARIA heads towards the stage and LIV follows.
SCENE THIRTY TWO – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
Elle does a contemporary dance to an instrumental version to “Tightrope”. During the performance, Sam and Lola hold hands side stage and smile, both remembering their first time dancing together at the Rose Ball. Aria watches from the other side of the stage with a look of love and admiration on her face. Following the performance, she gazes over at Aria side stage as she accepts the applause from the audience.
SCENE THIRTY THREE – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
JAXON is fixing his tie in one of the vanity mirrors before he goes out to do the curtain call.
OLIVER walks up behind him.
OLIVER: Good evening, Jaxon.
JAXON turns and faces him.
JAXON: Well that depends on how this conversation goes.
OLIVER: I owe you an apology.
JAXON raises his eyebrows.
OLIVER: I let my emotions get the best of me and treated you unfairly because of it, so I apologize. I can see now that you are exactly the man that Olivia needs in her life and I feel a great sense of peace knowing that she has you.
JAXON: Thank you.
OLIVER: If you’d like, I’d like to take you both out to dinner again before I go home. And this time, I promise to behave.
JAXON softly chuckles.
JAXON: That would be nice.
OLIVER and JAXON shake hands.
SCENE THIRTY FOUR – INT. THE REC ROOM – STAGE
The cast is performing a reprised edition of “The Greatest Show” as they do their curtain call. Kaden and his stage crew friends have their moment together and bow. Brianna, Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Stella, Sam, and Jaxon all stand in a line, hold hands, and walk to the front of the stage together. Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Stella, Sam, and Jaxon all take turns handing Brianna two red roses each to form a bouquet. The entire group comes together for one final bow.
SCENE THIRTY FIVE – INT. THE REC ROOM – BACKSTAGE AREA
SKYLAR is packing up her bag.
STELLA enters, hiding a small gift box behind her back.
STELLA: Hey.
SKYLAR looks up at her.
SKYLAR: Hey. What a night.
STELLA: I’ll say. It was incredible.
SKYLAR: You staying for the after party?
STELLA: I would, but I have to get home and finish packing. I’m going back to Boston for a few weeks to spend Christmas with my mom. My flight leaves tomorrow morning.
SKYLAR: Oh okay.
STELLA: But before I leave, I wanted to give you this.
STELLA presents the box.
SKYLAR: You didn’t have to get me a gift.
STELLA: Yes, I did.
SKYLAR gently takes the box and opens it, revealing a custom sobriety medallion.
SKYLAR: Oh my gosh. You remembered.
STELLA: How could I forget? I’m so proud of how hard you’ve worked to get your life back on track. But more importantly, you should be proud of yourself.
SKYLAR sheds a tear.
SKYLAR: Thank you, Stells.
STELLA: You’re welcome.
SKYLAR and STELLA hug.
SCENE THIRTY SIX – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
The cast and crew cheer.
Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Brianna, Sam, Jaxon, the cast, and crew are gathered in the gym all with drinks in their hands. Brianna is standing on the stage with her friends behind her giving a toast to the cast and crew for working so hard on the show, noting that it will be a night that she will never forget.
Dominic jumps in and says that he agrees, but the show isn’t over yet because he and the cast had prepared something special for the party. Dominic takes a spot at the piano and begins to play “From Now On”. Lola, Liv, Aria, Skylar, Brianna, Sam, Jaxon gather around the piano. As the song picks up, Dominic leaves the piano. Michael cues the instrumental track to play through the speakers. Dominic continues to perform the song with the cast, using a lot of the show stage sets to enhance the performance before doing a crowd surf with the Sapphire performers that brings him to the gym floor.
The L&Os join everyone on the gym floor and take turns doing a Soul Train line dance during the bridge of the song. Brianna and Skylar dance together. Aria goes down solo. Liv and Jaxon follow her. Sam and Lola end the line with a spin dip before they return to the stage with Dominic, Elle, Brielle, and Michael to continue dancing.
Towards the end of the song, the camera pans out of the rec center to show that it is snowing outside.
SCENE THIRTY SEVEN – INT. THE REC ROOM – GYM
STELLA enters her aunt’s apartment.
STELLA’S AUNT: Stell, is that you?
STELLA closes the door behind her and begins to take off her coat to hang on the coat rack.
STELLA: Yeah.
STELLA enters the living room to see her aunt sitting with someone. Their back is facing away from her.
STELLA’S AUNT: There’s someone I would like you to meet.
SOFIA stands and turns to face Stella.
STELLA’S AUNT: This is Sofia Moorland.
SOFIA: It’s so nice to meet you, Stella. I’ve heard so much about you.
STELLA and SOFIA shake hands.
STELLA: It’s nice to meet you too.
SOFIA flashes a friendly smile.
END OF EPISODE
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