Strike the House Lights

The floor was clear and the routing secured, but you cannot close a show under chaotic illumination. A harsh small desk lamp on the bookshelf was casting an erratic glare across my managed territory. I stepped firmly across the polished wood shelf, reached up with both hands, and manually swiveled the lamp's metal shade downward toward the wall. The harsh direct glare instantly softened into a clean, ambient rim light across the shelf. Now the stage is properly set for the night: balanced, quiet, and fully under control.