The atmosphere inside the grand theater was electric. All seats were filled, their occupants dressed in their finest attire, eagerly awaiting the premier of the new opera production. The stage bustled with life as performers sang and acted passionately, drawing gasps and applause from the enthralled audience. Amidst this sea of admirers, Gabriel stood apart, perched high above them on the mezzanine level.
His sharp gaze followed every movement on stage, his keen interest tempered by a constant stream of derision. "Complete nonsense!" he muttered disapprovingly, his voice carrying through the hushed auditorium. "This isn't an opera! Where are the true notes? The heart-wrenching stories?" Though others recoiled at his harsh words, Gabriel remained oblivious to their discomfort. The person sitting next to him politely made a remark to Gabriel about their behavior, urging them to remain silent during the performance.
Barely containing his annoyance, Gabriel shot the person sitting next to him a menacing look before retorting, "I think you'll find that my definition of an opera differs greatly from yours." He then proceeded to cross his arms defiantly, refusing to engage further in conversation. Instead, he redirected his attention toward the stage, attempting to immerse himself in the spectacle before him. However, even amidst the breathtaking singing and dancing, Gabriel couldn't shake off the feeling of dissatisfaction that gnawed at his gut. This wasn't what he craved; this wasn't art in its purest form. And yet, here he was, forced to endure another attempt at cultural appropriation masquerading as high art.