“Thank you all for that wonderful ovation,” the singer screamed bitterly as she stomped off the stage after performing her unentertaining but slightly informative song contrasting the dosages and efficacy of various commercially available laxatives.

Marissa applauded quietly from her round table near the center of the floor. “This wasn’t what I expected the city to be like at all, Mommy,” she whispered, trying to sound not without a certain girlish wonderment.

When the gruff reply came, Marissa jumped with the realization her mother was not there. “I’m not your mommy, kid,” growled her burly new tablemate.

The master of ceremonies had returned to the stage. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he now bellowed, “It is my great pleasure to introduce to you tonight a new act. For the first time ever on our stage, give it up for Marissa’s Mommy!”