EXT: LINCOLN HIGH ST. PRECINCT AREA. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE shuffles up the street, angry thoughts of DAZ WILLIS playing on his mind.

CUT TO:
ANOTHER ANGLE - OUTSIDE AN AUDIO /VISUAL SHOP.

He approaches the shop and........

we see from CHARLIE CROWE'S Point of View, a sign proclaiming, "Free Internet Access - Create your own Web site!"

We then see the quizzical look on CHARLIE CROWE'S face.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
        Web ..... Site?

Intrigued CHARLIE CROWE glances in the shop window at the array of computers on show. He has never seen them before.  He shakes his head in bewilderment.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
        Web site.

He is about to walk away when he notices a TV monitor image of himself, caught by a video camera on sale.  He studies the image of himself intently.

CUT TO:

INT: BLACK & WHITE FIFTIES STAGE ENSEMBLE. NIGHT

CHARLIE CROWE ‘s mind wanders back to Yesteryear, to a much younger CHARLIE CROWE joining the rest of a large orchestra taking an encore after a performance.  The younger face of CHARLIE CROWE transforms back to:

CUT TO:

EXT: AUDIO VISUAL SHOP WINDOW. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE ‘s eyes betray a tear.  Slowly, as the veil lifts, CHARLIE CROWE takes in the image of himself; the dirty rags; the thick matted hair and beard; the grubby hands.  As if for the first time ever, a look

of incomprehension crosses his face and CHARLIE CROWE feels disgust at the sight of himself.  He slowly backs away from the image, away from himself.  MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC curse as he backs into them inadvertently.

Finally a look of resolve mixed with anger falls on CHARLIE CROWE, and he moves away up the street.

CUT TO:

EXT: LINCOLN HIGH ST.  RAILWAY CROSSING. DAY

The Barriers drop down just as DAZ WILLIS rushes towards us, looking for Charlie.
He impatiently waits for a train to rumble past (let's say a freight train, it'll take longer!)

CUT TO:

EXT: LINCOLN HIGH ST. PRECINCT AREA. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE shuffles past another window and watches his shuffling gait.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
        Why the bloody ‘ell am I shufflin'?  I didna before!

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC turn and stare.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
        What're yoose all starin' at?!  I'm not some kinda disease you know!

The MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC begin to snigger.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
Aye, yer think it's bloody funny, bein' on the street, do yer?  I'll tell yer sommats, I've ......I've gorra website!

He lifts his chin and walks off as the MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC laugh at him.

CUT TO:

EXT: LINCOLN HIGH ST. PRECINCT AREA. DAY

DAZ WILLIS trots up the High Street, in despair, looking for Charlie.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC around him grumble as he bumps past them, oblivious.

CUT TO:

EXT: LINCOLN BROADGATE AREA. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE walks over the Footbridge away from Town.  He reaches the other side and starts up BROADGATE towards Monks Road.

CUT TO:


ANOTHER ANGLE
DAZ WILLIS rounds a corner from the Bus Station and catches a glimpse of CHARLIE through the mid-day traffic.

DAZ WILLIS:
Charlie!!  CHARLIE!!!  WAIT!!!

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

CHARLIE CROWE cannot hear through the noise of the traffic, and rounds the corner of  Rumbold Street, out of site.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

DAZ WILLIS is not able to see where CHARLIE went due to the heavy traffic (Juggernauts or Buses), and takes one, final look, and then turns back towards the University, head bowed.

CUT TO:

EXT: HOMELESS MISSION. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE shuffles up to the building. He is about to enter but his way is barred as Mr FISHER meets him on the doorstep.

                    MR. FISHER:(to a child)
        Now you know the rules, Charlie, no entry during the day.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
        Aw, come on , Mr. Fisher, I need sommats!

CHARLIE CROWE makes to skirt round, but is no match for the relatively younger MR. FISHER.

                    MR. FISHER:
        No, Charlie!  You must wait until the right time!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:(Pleading)
But I want a bath!  Please, Mr. Fisher, Sir.  I want a bath!  (Begins to weep) Please!

MR. FISHER softens.

                    MR. FISHER:
Aye, well you do that!  Go on then, but keep it quiet in there, and don't go blabbing it about!

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (like an excited child)
I won't, Sir.  I promise

CHARLIE CROWE skips inside.

                    MR. FISHER:
Yeah, right.

TIME CUT TO:

INT: BATH HOUSE. DAY

We establish the interior of a grubby looking bathhouse.
The water running out of the bath plug is positively disgusting, but then we see a cleaner CHARLIE CROWE wrapped round with a blanket.  All that is left, is the hair and beard.  Without thinking he delves into a nearby waste-bin and pulls out an old grimy disposable razor.  Then he realises with disgust what he has done and drops it back in the bin, and washes his hand again.

CHARLIE CROWE looks at the pile of old rags that served as his clothes.  He side-steps them as if they might jump up at him.  

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE:

CHARLIE CROWE approaches his dirty bed with another look of disgust.  He swallows and then dives underneath it to retrieve a handful of coins he has stashed under there.

CUT TO:

EXT: HOMELESS MISSION. DAY

MR. FISHER is shocked to see CHARLIE CROWE wrapped only in the blanket.  He holds the handful of loose change

                    MR. FISHER:
        Charlie?

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
        Douglas.

CHARLIE CROWE barefoots it up the street looking for a Charity Shop.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC are equally shocked.

CUT TO:

EXT: A CHARITY SHOP. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE enters the shop.

CUT TO:

INT: A CHARITY SHOP. DAY

The SALES ASSISTANT is shocked as CHARLIE CROWE enters.  He quickly peruses the rails near a carrousel.
A CUSTOMER is busy looking at the clothes on the carrousel in the centre of the shop.  She moves aside in bewilderment as CHARLIE CROWE continues up the rail.
The SALES ASSISTANT 's mild shock turns to wide-eyed astonishment as CHARLIE CROWE grabs a Gent's suit and dives into the changing cubicle, throwing his blanket to the floor just as he enters.

The SALES ASSISTANT and CUSTOMER can only stare and shrug at each other.

TIME CUT TO:

EXT: CHARITY SHOP. DAY

CHARLIE CROWE emerges from the shop looking smarter and more fully clothed than he has in years.  He moves off, away from Town, looking for somewhere else.

CUT TO:

EXT: A BARBER SHOP. DAY

We establish the shop as CHARLIE CROWE approaches it with something akin to trepidation. The price is shown in the window, "£2.50 O.A.P.'s".  He examines the remaining coins in his hands.  There isn't enough.  

CHARLIE CROWE paces back and forth, wondering what to do.  Finally, he enters the shop.

CUT TO:
INT: BARBER SHOP. DAY

FX:    Building, Big Band Backing track over the following scenes.

A broom is thrust into CHARLIE CROWE'S hands and he starts sweeping up.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

CHARLIE CROWE washes the work surfaces and the sinks.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

Hair and Beard are seen falling to the floor at the feet of CHARLIE CROWE who is sat in the chair.

TIME CUT TO:

EXT: BARBERS SHOP. DAY

FX:    The music reaches a climatic conclusion just as.....

We finally see the complete transformation as CHARLIE CROWE exits the shop and stands admiring himself in the shop window reflection.  We see a cleaner, younger looking, and perhaps even distinguished-looking CHARLIE CROWE.

FADE TO:

EXT: BRAYFORD POOL

The University, across the Brayford.

CUT TO:

INT: UNIVERSITY HALL. DAY

DAZ WILLIS is sat in a quiet corner of the hall.  STEVIE enters; the other MEMBERS OF THE BAND at a discreet distance.  They urge STEVIE on.

                    STEVIE:
        Daz?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
            Piss off.

                    STEVIE:
Now who isn't being observant?

DAZ WILLIS looks up and round to see a sorry bunch of people looking at him.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
                Well?

                    STEVIE:
            What can I say?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
            You'll think of something.

                    STEVIE:
            We....we behaved ....... like........

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Cutting in)
Like a bunch of irresponsible jerks!  Like "students".  Jesus, don't you realise we're going to be tomorrow's Politicians, Doctors and.........and Lawyers?!  In years to come, we will be the people charged with the care of people like Charlie.  Yes, he has a name.  Charlie Crowe.  He's seventy three, a war hero, and.........

                    PETER: (Cutting in)
        ....a former musician.

All eyes change as everyone takes the last remark on board..

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Not just any musician!  Yes!  I can see your eyes.  I can see that, suddenly, in the last millisecond, that....that thing you ridiculed is no longer a tramp.  You can relate to him now, can't you?  A man down on his luck.

 Bravo!  Suddenly we've one less "waste of space" on the street.  Just a man down on his luck.

He turns away bitterly.

PETER steps forward.

                    PETER:
Daz, I admire your stand, but the thing is we have a pressing issue to think about.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Oh, don't worry about it.  The chap's probably only suicidal now after your onslaught but, hey, it's not the end of the world!

            PETER: (Unperturbed)
Daz, fifty percent of Homeless are alcoholics and twenty percent are drug addicts!  It's easy for us to place him in among that lot, but what do you expect!  It's the way we've been conditioned, the way we've been told to cross the street to avoid them.  But in this case we were wrong, we're sorry.  It could happen to anyone!  

DAZ WILLIS shows no sign of relenting.

                    PETER: (Continuing)
Look, I could walk out of here until you've calmed down and then come back and apologise, but we haven't got time! Daz, go and find him....Charlie.  

                    DAZ WILLIS:
I've looked!  I don't know where he is.

                PETER:
Well, either way, bring him back and we'll apologise.  Promise.  But we have to resolve this issue of the Gig.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
What issue?

                    PETER:
The whole thing's being televised.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
What?

                    PETER:
The Gig. It's to be broadcast on TV.....national.

Suddenly it sinks in to DAZ WILLIS' mind.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
When did you find this out?  Don't answer, why should I give a shit now? (But he does!) Still, I wonder why that makes Candice so adamant about Heavy Metal?

                    STEVIE:
I think we should knobble them!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Just like you knobbled Charlie?

                    STEVIE:
Yeah, well.  Like Pete said......it was a mistake and we're sorry, but we gotta pull the plug on this!

STEVIE, contrite, turns and exits, pulling by PETER and the remaining MEMBERS OF THE BAND, with him.

                    STEVIE: (Continuing)
        Come on!

CUT TO:

INT: UNIVERSITY CORRIDOR. DAY

The group approach a door to a small room.  A sign proclaims, "Audio Storeroom".

CUT TO:

INT: A UNIVERSITY STOREROOM. DAY

STEVIE, PETER and a few other MEMBERS OF THE BAND sneak into the room, which is laden with Amps, Speakers and other pieces of sound equipment.  The emblems on the side of the equipment suggest the

Heavy Metal Rock band.  They stand looking at it all.

                    PETER:
You're not seriously suggesting we damage their gear?

                    STEVIE:
Just a few key components.

                    PETER:
Such as what?

                    STEVIE:
(With a glint in his eye) All this!

They all laugh as STEVIE makes ready to damage an Amp.  Just then DAZ WILLIS walks into the room.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
So, this is your solution, is it?  Knobble the equipment and then they'll have to choose us?  Well, I don't want to be the last resort!  I want us to play because they want us to, not because we're all that's left!

He turns on his heel and leaves them to it.  Eventually they all file out of the room, everything just as it was.

CUT TO:
EXT: THE UNIVERSITY MAIN DRIVE. DAY

A determined DAZ WILLIS runs towards us up the drive, the University building looming behind.

CUT TO:

EXT: THE RIVER WITHAM BANK. DAY

DAZ WILLIS continues to run towards us, away from the City, and towards the park.

CUT TO:

EXT: THE CEMETERY. DAY

DAZ WILLIS approaches the Cemetery gate, searching the graveyard.  He enters.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

DAZ WILLIS approaches Gwen's grave and is somewhat startled at the sight of CHARLIE CROWE, polished and scrubbed, knelt at the graveside.  DAZ WILLIS keeps a discreet distance, and CHARLIE CROWE doesn't seem to know DAZ WILLIS is there....but he does.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
I always come here.  (He falls quiet)  When I think the World's gettin' on top ‘o' me, or I've had enough, this is where I come. (He turns and faces DAZ WILLIS) Just like now!  

DAZ WILLIS is sorrowful, but cannot seem to bring the words forward that he wishes to say.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
It's the only place I find peace.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Well, I suppose no one's going to give you grief here, are they?

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Only my Gwen.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Look, I didn't mean.......(lightening up) I .... I didn't recognise you.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
You didn't know me before so how can you recognise me now?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
But, I want to know you.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Why, because I've had a bath and changed me rags?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Well, I could say it's because I'm ashamed of my friends, but I can't speak for them.  No, because.......because you were once great and I want to step into your shoes; learn your secrets.  I want you to teach me!

CHARLIE CROWE laughs

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Well, that takes the biscuit!  Your Father's forkin' out a mint  to put you through school and you want me to learn yer?

He laughs harder.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
Well, here's lesson one.  Don't end up like me!  Lesson two, don't look a gift horse in the mouth, you're likely to get shot!

With that he gets to his feet and hobbles off.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Gift horse?

He chases after CHARLIE CROWE.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Charlie!  For God's sake will you stop bloody clearing off!

CHARLIE CROWE stops and turns.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Look, I'm sorry about what happened  earlier, but if you've done this "transformation" purely because of what they said, then it was probably for your own good!  Maybe now people won't take the piss out of you!  I'm sorry, all right?!!

Now it's DAZ WILLIS' turn to walk away.  CHARLIE CROWE is thoughtful.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Hold on!

DAZ WILLIS stops.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
I wanted to speak to you earlier; to pass on some useful information.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
The gift horse?

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Aye.  I overheard something from that girl, Candice. Y'know, the one you told me about?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Candice?  Don't tell me, she's a bloke?!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
        No!  It's about her and that Rock Band.  I found out their little secret.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
What secret?

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
She's to be their Lead Singer and play Guitar.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
The bloody bitch!  Bastard! She knew.  She bloody knew all along about the TV and she engineered this whole thing so that it would be her show!  What do we do now?!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
I thought there was power in numbers?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
But how?  Help us Charlie!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
What?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Help us.  Tell us what to do.  Join the band.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Play?  Don't be so bloody stupid.  What on earth do you want me for?  I haven't played in years; I couldn't .....could I?

DAZ WILLIS nods

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continued)
No! (Then, on reflection) Oh my God!  Oh my gosh!  I....I.....

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Don't fluster, Charlie, just say "yes"!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
You don't know how long I've waited to hear this............but no, the truth is, I can't.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Why?

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Because it's been too long; I'm no good anymore.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
A Musician who forgets to play?  Bollocks!!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
I'm sorry, lad.  Thanks for the offer, but I'm useless on my own.

He walks ahead leaving us looking at a disappointed DAZ WILLIS.

CUT TO:

INT: A LOCAL PUB. NIGHT

DAZ WILLIS is addressing a large group of FELLOW STUDENTS.  Also in attendance are members of the MUSIC AND DRAMA SOCIETY COMMITTEE.  CANDICE and the ROCK BAND MEMBERS sit in silence off to one side, forced to have to attend and listen to the accusations put against them.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
So, that's it.  She had a hidden agenda, a desire to be seen and heard at all costs, and as such the vote for the Heavy Metal Band must be declared null and void!

There are general murmurs of agreement from all around the assembly.  The
MUSIC AND DRAMA SOCIETY COMMITTEE sit away talking among themselves, discussing the issue.

                    CANDICE:
Look, For the last time, the students of this University do not want to listen to some....some boring drivel like this!  They want raw energy!

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Quietly)
And that's the point, Candice.  The Gig isn't about what WE want, but what the people of Lincoln want.

More murmuring of agreement.

                    CANDICE:
Well, IF you remember, the big band was exactly what you wanted!  You never mentioned Lincoln then!


                    DAZ WILLIS:
(Shakes head) I propose we change the arrangement to Big Band Jazz made up of all musicians who wish to take part!
    
                    PETER:
Seconded!

                    COMMITTEE MEMBER:
All those in favour?

All hands rise in unison except, that is, CANDICE and the ROCK BAND MEMBERS.

                    COMMITTEE MEMBER:
Carried!

The ROCK BAND MEMBERS are gutted.  They storm out angrily, followed by a bitter CANDICE.

TIME CUT TO:

EXT: GIG REHEARSAL VENUE. DAY

We establish the exterior as musicians carrying instruments, enter the building.  A sign is posted outside, "The Gig Auditions and Rehearsals".

CUT TO:

INT: GIG REHEARSAL VENUE. DAY

The large rehearsal hall (with stage) is crammed with pockets of MUSICIANS, jamming, tuning, arguing, laughing, and general bedlam.

We see DAZ WILLIS stood watching the proceedings, wandering what the hell he got into.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Can I have your attention, please?!!!

No response.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Excuse me, will you please be quiet?!!

Still no response.  He grabs a passing MUSICIAN.

                    DAZ WILLIS:(Continuing)
Do us a favour? Will you go round............?

We see DAZ WILLIS notice noticing A MUSICIAN playing a Didgeridoo and another MUSICIAN playing a skiffle board.

                    DAZ WILLIS:(Continuing)
.....what the hell?

He lets the MUSICIAN continue on his way as he approaches the Didgeridoo MUSICIAN.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)

er....excuse me?

                    MUSICIAN:
Yeah?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
What the hell are doing bringing.....bringing THAT in here?

                    MUSICIAN:
You said anyone could play!  

                    DAZ WILLIS:
In a Big Band?

The MUSICIAN stares blankly at DAZ WILLIS

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
(sighs) For God's sake!

DAZ WILLIS walks off in a huff.  When he's out of earshot, The MUSICIANS bursts out laughing at the obvious joke.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

CONNOR EVANS walks in to the hall and surveys the sight.  He is directed over to DAZ WILLIS.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Mr Willis?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Yes?

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Connor Evans, Producer, Foresight Television.  I believe you are responsible for the changes to the running line-up?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
From the Heavy Metal?  Well.......I suppose....

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Why change it?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
You don't approve?

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Mr Willis, my job is to put the University's effort into some semblance of .......professional output across to the largest income-generating demo graph as possible.  To have one's plans and line-up effectively scrapped at the whim of......of a near-minor at such an advanced stage, is, well it beggars belief!

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Firstly, Mr Evans, I'm not a "near-minor" as you put it, there are, however, two things I'm "near".  One is to qualify as a Lawyer, the second is to deck you one in the face, not necessarily in that order!  This is your first visit to us, and no plans have yet been set in concrete by your company.  Now, WE are happy with the Big Band sound, and the new decision has got absolutely nothing to do with what you want!  So get a grip and deal with it!!

He turns away with new found authority, jumps onto the stage

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Right!!  WOW!!!  GIVE IT A REST!!!

The noise begins to diminish, all except a louder voice chatting below.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Oy!! That means you!!  Now, SHUT ..... UP!!!!!!!

All falls quiet.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Thank you!  Now that I have your undivided attention, I think we should actually begin to rehearse, rather than using this venue as a bloody youth club!!  Places!

                    CONNOR EVANS: (Sarky)
Well, If I'm to take my place in this great event under your leadership, I think I'd better listen in to see what changes are.....likely.

TIME CUT TO:


INT: GIG REHEARSAL VENUE HALLWAY. DAY

CANDICE peeks her head round into the hall, BEACON at her side.

                    BEACON:
He's in for a shock.

                    CANDICE:
What?

                    BEACON:
Big man Willis.  He's missing a ....... a key person.  Call me when they come begging for me!

He starts to laugh as he walks away. CANDICE looks on, confused.  Finally she looks back into the hall.

CUT TO:

INT: GIG REHEARSAL VENUE. DAY

Something is nagging at DAZ WILLIS.  Then he realises someone's missing.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Where's Kieran?!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Who's he?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Our drummer.  Well?!!

                    PETER:
He wasn't feeling well earlier.

                    STEVIE:
Yeah, he's go the trots!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
But he was all right this morning!!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
(Mockingly dramatic) Maybe he's been got at.......by the opposition!

DAZ WILLIS turns and faces CONNOR EVANS then notices CANDICE back away from the doorway.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Excuse me a minute

He dashes after her.

CUT TO:

EXT: GIG REHEARSAL VENUE. DAY

CANDICE is walking away as DAZ WILLIS bursts out into the daylight.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Candice!!

She stops, but does not turn.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Why have I got the feeling you're behind this?

                    CANDICE:
Behind what?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Don't give me that!  You know full well what I mean.  What have you done to my drummer?!

A Smile creeps onto her face as the penny drops at Beacon's words.

                    CANDICE:
Nothing.  I've done nothing.

She turns and walks away.

FADE TO:

EXT: THE UNIVERSITY. DAY

We see the University and Marina from the West End Bridge.

CUT TO:

INT: THE UNIVERSITY. DAY

DAZ WILLIS is talking to STEVIE and PETER as CONNOR EVANS walks into the room.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Still no sign of your drummer, Mr Willis?

DAZ WILLIS shakes his head.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Well, far be it for me to point this out, but time is pressing!  We are talking a matter of days now as you well know.

                    PETER:
He gets the picture.

                    STEVIE:
I think he's been frightened off.

Just then BEACON enters the room.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Aye up!  Here comes Studentus Neanderthal

                    BEACON:
Still no sign of your drummer, Willis?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Someone hear a parrot?

                    BEACON: (fawning to CONNOR EVANS)
Look, if I can be of service to ..... to help you out, then please, just let me know?

He turns away from CONNOR EVANS and faces DAZ WILLIS as he walks away; a malicious leer on his face.

CUT TO:

INT: A GENERAL OFFICE AT THE UNIVERSITY. DAY

We establish the exterior of the office, complete with sign over the door.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

We see the front page of a Fax emerge from a fax machine, addressed to DAZ WILLIS.  It is marked, "URGENT!"

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE
The UNIVERSITY RECEPTIONIST collects the fax and staples the several sheets together.  She notices CANDICE walking past the office window and bangs on the glass to attract her attention.  Shortly CANDICE enters the office.

                    CANDICE:
You want something?

                    UNIVERSITY RECEPTIONIST:
Yes.  You know Darren Willis, don't you?

                    CANDICE:
For my sins.

                    UNIVERSITY RECEPTIONIST:
Will you take this to him?  It's marked as important.

                    CANDICE:
Do I have a choice?

She takes the fax and walks away.

CUT TO:

INT: A UNIVERSITY CORRIDOR. DAY

CANDICE regards the fax as she passes a waste bin.  She pauses, wondering whether to just bin the document.  Decency gets the better of her and she refrains from ditching it.

CUT TO:

INT: THE UNIVERSITY RECREATION AREA. DAY

MEMBERS OF THE BIG BAND stand around talking with DAZ WILLIS.  

                    A BAND MEMBER:
Surely Kieran's not that bad?  He only had gut rot!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Ten days to go and still no bastard drummer!  I can't understand it. There's nothing wrong with him!.

A serious CANDICE enters.

                    STEVIE:
Someone's got at him.  No second guess as to who........(nodding to CANDICE)

Accusing eyes look on as they all fall quiet.

                    CANDICE:
Daz?  I have something for you.

                    STEVIE:
Yeah, the clap!

DAZ WILLIS notices the seriousness on her face.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Shut up!  What is it?

                    CANDICE:
This fax came for you.

DAZ WILLIS takes the document and scans the header page.  His eyes widen in shock.

                    CANDICE: (Continuing)
Are you all right, bad news?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Er....yes, no.  No.

CANDICE merely nods and turns and walks away.  DAZ WILLIS hangs back, then goes after her.

                    DAZ WILLIS: (Continuing)
Candice?

                    CANDICE:
Yes?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Charlie......A friend of mine said that its very easy to only see a person at surface level and not see them for who they really are.

                    CANDICE:
And....?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Well.....(he pauses)  well, I know how you must be feeling about everything, and ..... and I'm sorry about how I spoke to you the other day, at rehearsals.

                    CANDICE:
I'll get over it.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
You were looking forward to it, weren't you?

CANDICE shrugs.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Look, I never had you down as a villain, you know, not really! Well, I'm sorry. I really am.

CANDICE begins to soften.

                    CANDICE:
No, it's me who should be sorry.  The thought of TV fame got the better of me, I guess.

                DAZ WILLIS:
I hope we can get on.  I ....... quite like you.  You........(trailing off)

                    CANDICE:
Look, I've gotta go.

She turns and starts to walk away then turns.

                    CANDICE: (Continuing)
Oh, for what it's worth, there are no hard feelings.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
I've just had a thought.  Something that might benefit us both?

                    CANDICE:
We get married and have babies?

DAZ giggles

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Well, let's get to be friends first......give it a couple of days.

He finally begins to read the fax.  Suddenly the giggling stops and he's very serious.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
I'm sorry, Candice, I'll catch you later about my idea!  I've got to run!

And he does!

TIME CUT TO:

EXT: THE HOGSHEAD PUB. NIGHT

We establish the pub next to the University.

CUT TO:

INT: THE HOGSHEAD PUB. NIGHT

CANDICE is stood up in front of a drunk BEACON, WRENCH and the other ROCK BAND MEMBERS. BEACON regards DAZ WILLIS as if he is something he has stepped on, as he walks in and stands beside CANDICE.

                    BEACON:
Ooh, look what the tramp's dragged in!  

                    WRENCH:
What's gotten into you?!    

                    CANDICE:
If you'll be quiet, we have something to tell you. DAZ and I think we should amalgamate; join forces as it were.

                    BEACON:
Ooh, isn't it nice and cosy, all this, "Daz and I",  "Daz and I"!  The joining of the great people! What ‘appened to this, "we'll not be ‘aving any of that big band crap"!

                    WRENCH: (Over)
Shut yer gob, will yer!

                    BEACON: (Continuing)
Oh, must bow down and prostrate our pathetic bodies to the god and goddess of music!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Grow up!

                    CANDICE:
We could make a new sound!

                    BEACON:
Not without a drummer, you couldn't! (he giggles drunkenly)  How is he, Boy Kieran?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
I might have known you had something to do with it!  Why I thought Candice was behind it, I'll never know.  Well, I don't know what you said or did to him, but the guy's a nervous wreck!  He's even thinking of dropping out!

                    BEACON:
Get off my case, Willis!  Kieran was crap anyway.  You're better off without ‘im!  I just....helped him on his way!  Believe me I did you a favour.

DAZ WILLIS lunges to grab BEACON but is intercepted by CANDICE.

                    CANDICE:
Beacon, get out!!  You're off the Band!

                    BEACON: (Cutting in)
Piss off!  You're not my gaffer, and besides, you still need a drummer (he still laughs) and as to your, "joint effort", you can piss off to that ‘n all!! I can hear the new sound already, "DeathJazz", no, no, a better one, "The Black Vampires play Boogie Woogie!" (laughing) or, "Glen Miller and his Necrophillia Band of Darkness"!  Crap!  When you want me to play proper Rock, call me!

He gets up and staggers out.

                    WRENCH:
Beacon?!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Let the dickhead go!

                    CANDICE: (to the rest)
Look, never mind him!  Do you want to play, or not?!

There are general nods of resignation, approval and giving-in.

                    CANDICE: (Continuing)
Carried!

                    WRENCH:
Actually, I.....I quite like Glen Miller.

CANDICE and DAZ WILLIS can only wonder.

FADE TO:

EXT: THE BRAYFORD POOL. DAY
We establish a long shot view of the University and Main Entrance Forecourt, which is decked with a stage and audience seating. On the stage are musicians which form the Band of the University Gig.

Television Cameras cover numerous angles, cables leading to OB Vans

We see an enormous band warming up, watched by local DIGNITARIES, FELLOW STUDENTS and MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC sat in a makeshift amphitheatre.  Yet, seen closely, we see various MEMBERS OF THE BAND mouthing questions to each other, "where's Daz?".  Negative shrugs of various shoulders tell us he is not about.

CUT TO:

INT: A UNIVERSITY CORRIDOR. DAY
DAZ WILLIS and STEVIE are stood side by side of KIERAN, a very nervous looking drummer.

                    STEVIE:
For God's Sake, Kieran!  Pull yourself together!  Get your lazy bastard arse out onto those skins!

KIERAN withdraws even more.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Shut up, Stevie. (To a child) Now Kieran, you came back at rehearsals and stole the performances.  All you have to do is repeat it.

                    STEVIE:
Yeah never mind all the people watching and the TV cameras.....

DAZ belts STEVIE in the ribs.  KIERAN looks away, mortified......straight into the eyes of BEACON, stood at the end of the corridor.  It's too much for the gibbering KIERAN, as he clutches his Appendix and passes out.

FADE TO:

INT: THE UNIVERSITY MEETING HALL. DAY

CONNOR EVANS passes back and forth, livid.  CANDICE and DAZ WILLIS look on.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Why did I listen to you, Willis!  The continuous weakness in this whole shoddy affair has finally given way.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Look, how the hell was I to know that he had a burst Appendix?!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
That doesn't answer how we are going to get ourselves out of this!

                    CANDICE:
What about one of your professional session players.  Won't one of them do?

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Do you think I haven't thought of that already?!  We have exactly twenty minutes to go and there isn't anyone available at that short notice!

He continues pacing.  DAZ WILLIS ,oblivious to all else, is pacing too, waiting.  

Then a distinctly nervous CHARLIE CROWE is ushered in.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Charlie!!

A relieved DAZ WILLIS approaches CHARLIE CROWE.

                    CONNOR EVANS: (Continuing)
(To CHARLIE CROWE) Who are you?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Mr. Evans, this is Charlie Crowe.  He used to play in Tommy Wilson's Jazz Orchestra.  But then I don't expect you'd know who that was.  Charlie here just happens to be one of this centuries greatest drummers!  

Thanks for coming, Charlie.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Darren?

CONNOR EVANS takes CHARLIE CROWE round the shoulders and leads him to the door.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Come with me, Mr. Crowe.  You are the saviour we have been waiting for.  (Shouts) Wardrobe!!!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
But I can't! It's been too long!!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Nonsense!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Darren, please!  I can't play, I can't!  You said to come and watch; to lend my support.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Exactly, Mr. Crowe, and I'll pay out of my own back pocket, if I have to!

CHARLIE CROWE resists and stands still, unable to move

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
I can't do this!  Darren, please!

                    ERNEST: (Off)
Charlie Crowe not wanting to play?  Well, as I live and breathe!

CHARLIE CROWE looks round slowly to the voice.  He cannot believe his eyes.  Tears well in his eyes. His long lost friend stands in the doorway.

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Ernest?  Ernest?!  Oh my God.......Oh my God!!..... My old friend!

They approach each other and embrace long and hard as:

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
I thought you were dead!  I thought you were dead!

                    ERNEST:
What and miss the chance to light some more fires? Give over!

They embrace again.  We see CHARLIE CROWE'S eyes widen further.

Two other "old soldiers", complete with Trilby's and Trench Coats over the arms, walk in and take in the scene.  

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (Continuing)
Walter?  Arthur?

                    WALTER:
Hello, Charlie.

                    ARTHUR:
It's been a long time, Charlie boy!.  Eighteen years!

All four embrace each other, each trying to talk first.

        ERNEST:                            WALTER:                                ARTHUR:
Walter, you old dog!     Where did they drag you from?    Boys!, I can't believe this!     Where did you go?        The boy said the trip would be     Worth it!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
I...I don't understand.  How......?

                    ERNEST:
Young Darren, there. He wrote to us, told us you wanted some help whipping these young rascals into shape!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Darren?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
A white lie!

                    CHARLIE:
And you a Lawyer?

                    DAZ WILLIS:
When you said you wouldn't play without your band members, I did some digging.

                    WALTER:
Not too deep, I hope!  Old Colin Wilmslow popped off last week!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
No!

                    DAZ WILLIS:
I said you were on a web-site, Charlie.  You and the whole of Tommy Wilson's Orchestra!  The rest was just a few faxes!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
But why are you here?

                    WALTER:
Why do you think, my old son?  To give these young'uns a run for their money!

At that, STEVIE, PETER and a few other MEMBERS OF THE BAND walk in very humbly and approach CHARLIE CROWE.

                    STEVIE:
Listen, guy, we, that is I am REALLY sorry, for what I said to you.  I know nothing I say can take back what was said, but please believe I am much wiser now for this dreadful business.

                    PETER:
The same goes for all of us; we're sorry Charlie.

CHARLIE CROWE can only nod. DAZ WILLIS steps up.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Charlie, please will you and your band members please take your rightful places and join us, the Music and Drama Society band, to.......to blow this city away!

                    CHARLIE CROWE:
Lead on!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Right everyone, I think with the sight of the Ambulance for young Kieran's Appendix, we'll be able to pull another hour out of the hat, but we must work fast.  Come on!  Where's that bloody Wardrobe?!!

                    CANDICE:
But how will they fit in, with no rehearsals?

The four old-timers regard each other, a twinkle in their eye's

                    ARTHUR:
Ooh, don't you worry about that young missy!  You'll fit in!

With that they exit.

CUT TO:

EXT: THE BRAYFORD POOL. DAY

There is a polite applause as the CHARLIE CROWE and his FRIENDS climb onto the stage along with STEVIE, CANDICE - electric guitar in hand - and finally, DAZ WILLIS.  They settle into their places, CHARLIE CROWE on the drums.

CUT TO:

EXT: TV O.B. RECORDING ROOM. DAY

We establish the exterior of the O.B. Van, as CONNOR EVANS climbs into it.

CUT TO:

INT: TV O.B. RECORDING ROOM. DAY

CONNOR EVANS enters the room and takes his place at the production desk.

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Right, people, let's get this show on the road!  (Once seated and checked) All set?!

A unison of agreements prompts CONNOR EVANS into action.  He puts on a head set and microphone.

                    CONNOR EVANS: (Continuing)
Okay, everyone, stand by Sound; stand by VT; we go to Record in ten seconds!

                    TV ASSISTANT:
.......Ten, Nine, Eight,

                    CONNOR EVANS: (Over)
Fade up lights and sound.

                    TV ASSISTANT: (Over)
......Seven, Six, Five

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Run VT to Speed:

                    TV ASSISTANT: (Over)
......Four Three

        CONNOR EVANS:                           A VOICE: (Over)
Stand by on one!                                 VT at speed!

                    ASSISTANT: (Over)
Two One!

                    CONNOR EVANS:
Cue Credits and up on one.......!

CUT TO:

EXT: THE BRAYFORD POOL. DAY

The months of planning are over.  Planning, luck and a tail wind show through as the Brayford reverberates to a crescendo of classical Big Band Jazz complimented by Heavy Rock Rhythms and Riffs.  

We see CHARLIE CROWE and FRIENDS pick up the beat and tempo and play as if they had rehearsed all along!  

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE

We see DAZ'S FATHER looking on from a long way off, across the Brayford.  He does not show any pride, or feeling to what his Son is involved with.  He feels nothing at all. With a slight shake of the head, he turns and walks in the opposite direction.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE:

CANDICE and DAZ WILLIS regard each other while they are playing.  We know they are going somewhere in the future.

CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE:

BEACON looks on from another place, totally envious, jealous and deflated.  He is sober and without his drink, he knows what he has missed out on.  He skulks off.
CUT TO:

ANOTHER ANGLE:

The AUDIENCE are responsive as, ultimately, a swinging foot stamping piece ends the show, with CHARLIE CROWE playing out with a magnificent, improvised drum solo climaxing with the combined strength of Big and Heavy Rock bands.  

We close on the rapturous, standing crowd of Lincoln!

FADE TO:

EXT: A LINCOLN CEMETERY. DAY

The reverberating echo of the standing ovation lingers as DAZ WILLIS makes his way up the Cemetery towards Gwen's grave, carrying a bunch of flowers.  We can hear CHARLIE CROWE talking to his Wife.

                    CHARLIE CROWE: (V.O.)
Oh, Gwen if you could have heard us, I never thought I would ever play again!  I'm happier now, than .... than since you went.  But I don't think it'll be long now.......

DAZ WILLIS reaches the graveside and stands looking at it, before kneeling to place the flowers, not on Gwen's grave, but the fresh one beside it.  The grave of Charlie Crowe.

                    DAZ WILLIS:
Well, Charlie, you've got me at it now, I'm talking to myself ! You were a breath of fresh air to me, well, to all of us ..... eventually!  You taught us all a lot, especially about each other and we'll all be better for it.  I know you're happy now, my friend and if the Gig was anything to go by, you went out on top, which is where you wanted to be!  Oh, by the way, the Tommy Wilson Orchestra Website has just seen an increase in interest, but then I don't suppose you have the foggiest idea what I'm on about.  No matter.

I'll not promise to come by every week, lets face it, if I can't keep a promise to my old man, you've got no chance!  But then you've got Gwen, so I don't think you'll miss me.  But, I'll know where to find you and ... and that's what matters.  Well, I'm off now, before I'm dragged away! Thanks for everything, Charlie.  Rest in peace.

DAZ WILLIS gets up and walks away leaving us looking at the epitaph of Charlie Crowe,

"A tormented man of great Wisdom who gave this world so much".

CUT TO:

AUDIO: Slow, Glen Miller Wartime Big Band Classic over .......

END CREDITS

FADE OUT

THE END