Original subtitles

ROSES FOR BETTINA

Sh-show time!

The way she's p-pulled that off again... it won't be d-done by anybody else all too soon.

Who's that smart fellow in the loge with the old man?

A white slaver.

But you shouldn't be worried, he only buys stars.

But I saw how he kept on staring at me.

And that's why nothing will c-come of you...

...because you look at the audience instead of c-concentrating on work.

Would you give her the leave?

That depends on our committee meeting's decision.

Well that's alright.

I always come to agreements quickly with committees.

OK, that's enough for t-today.

Closing time!

- Best of luck, Bettina. - Thank you.

How did I do Kostja, honestly; was I bad?

On the contrary, you were as magnificent as always.

Do you think we'll make it over there?

In four weeks we'll be strolling down Broadway.

What will they make me perform first? Tell me it isn't Swan Lake.

No no, something... something modern; Boléro or The Firebird-

Ooh, aah...

What's the matter?

I think I practiced a bit too hard. I really must visit the masseur tomorrow.

Yes?

I'm supposed to leave this here for Ms. Sanden.

- Thank you. - A pleasure.

You should make haste, Mr. Reiss is expecting you.

Just me?

Yes, he'd like to treat you to dinner.

You're coming too of course.

I'm not invited.

I couldn't care less.

Tonight, let me lead the stage direction for once.

There she is.

Good evening you two. This is Mr. Reiss.

Glad to meet you Ms. Sanden.

Good evening Mr. Reiss. That's as far as my English capabilities go I'm afraid.

Very kind of you to come.

And you don't have to speak English, but rather dance...

...which you can, I've been convinced of that tonight.

Oh, I hope you don't mind that I brought Mr. Tomkoff along too.

Please, it makes the whole process easier...

...since we can also take care of the business end of things.

Thank you Mr. Reiss, I won't be eating, only a little something to drink.

I ordered champagne.

Thank you, I'd like to order a vodka.

Double vodka, as always. Your whisky is on the way.

And what about the champagne? I'll have to drink it by myself.

Supposedly he offered a fantastic salary.

What do you call fantastic?

A thousand dollars.

Per week?

Per night, of course.

Now that we've gained a mutual agreement...

...there's nothing stopping us from concluding a contract.

Your pace is a little dizzying, Mr. Reiss. With this we'd be engaged, right?

Why we? You are engaged.

And my choreographer?

Oh, we've got more than enough of those in the states.

All of them better than the continental ones.

Well, what he means to say is, their taste over there is different.

Perhaps we don't have any taste, but we have imagination.

I'm not sure if I'll be parted from the European way all that easily.

Oh, I don't agree.

We'll bring your talent to full blossom once over there.

I'm sorry Mr. Reiss, but I must take my leave.

I've got a strenuous rehearsal early tomorrow morning...

...and my ballet master is very fastidious with his work.

Oh, I'm Sorry. But we'll be speak again, won't we?

I will let you know of my decision tomorrow. Good night.

Good night my children.

Take a seat, Mr. Reiss

Would you like some champagne too now?

Phew, it's hot in here.

I'll never forget the silly face Mr. Reiss made.

Still displeased? I'm declining the offer of course.

Have you really given it enough thought?

There's nothing to think about. What would I do without you at Broadway?

Would the gentleman please make himself at home?

Wouldn't you rather lie down?

Of course my love.

I'll lie down, and watch you mix us some cocktails.

Your special mix, Troika please.

A drink to your sacrifice.

It really isn't a sacrifice.

Have you seen the costume designs already?

I'm getting them tomorrow.

I'm looking forward to the Boléro so much.

But it will be hard work.

That suits me fine.

Finally a modern ballet.

Have you got fever?

Your eyes are glistening.

Really?

Perhaps they want to remind you that it's out anniversary today.

Needless to say, you've forgotten it.

Well...

We sat opposite each other that day...

...but at different tables.

You ordered lemonade.

The cocktails were too expensive for me.

Nowadays I can't remember how I found the courage to come talk to you.

And you were oh so unfriendly.

Now listen here, there comes a full-grown girl and says;

I don't want to disturb you Mr. Tomkoff, but I'd like to do ballet.

Have you even danced before?

Yes. Well, no. I mean, only ten years...

...but I'm not allowed to audition with you.

Really? Who told you that?

The theater office! They told me they're chock-full already.

And then I had to sit at your table and you order me some Cognac.

You blushed profusely...

...right to the tip of your ear.

Just like now.

Supposedly that happens to people who are in love.

You've had enough to drink for tonight.

I learned drinking from you too.

I learnt everything from you.

To your new ballet piece.

To our ballet.

We'll never part.

Kostja...

...promise me this!

Bettina you're tipsy!

You're going to bed now.

I'm wide awake...

But as you wish.

I obey my lord and master.

Please bring my some Luminal, or I'll be wide awake all night.

Where do you keep it?

On my bedside cabinet.

I'm drunk Kostja!

Forgive me but... I love you.

Kostja!

Bettina...

Kostja?

What's the matter?

Come closer please.

You are... so far away.

What's the matter with her?

I'd like to speak the chief physician.

The chief physician will be here in the morning.

But somebody must be able to give me some information...

...maybe the doctor who examined her.

Does this belong to the patient?

You'll have to be patient till tomorrow.

She'll be in good care with us.

Ah, you must be Mr. Tomkoff, am I right?

Please Doctor, what's wrong with Ms. Sanden?

Time will tell.

How do you do, Kehl.

Why can't I see her?

Unfortunately that won't be possible.

When there's suspicion of infectious disease...

...it's our policy to isolate the patient until the final diagnosis.

It's a measure of precaution.

So you have certain suspicion.

It's too early to tell.

I don't wish to anticipate the head physicians decision.

I'd like to take my leave now.

- Morning Schimanski. - Morning.

- Morning Miss Gerwig. - Morning Schimanski.

Morning Mr. Kammerschenger.

Morning Irene.

Good day to you.

Well?

Not contented?

Oh Schimanski.

In this theater I'll always just be the secondary decoration...

...it's starting to make me sick.

Why don't you speak with the director?

He's got a weakness for you.

Sadly I haven't noticed any of that yet.

- Morning Schimanski. - Morning Mr. Rohrberger.

OK, won't you raise your left foot for me.

Well?

Will it go any further?

Do you think you're on stage?

I'm an evil critic who's got it in for your Achilles heel.

First of all the left is considerably weakened...

...Tibialis anterior not working.

Please...

Can I talk with Kostja now?

I've got a rehearsal.

Will I have to stay here long?

Well! Looks like you'll have to miss todays performance.

Won't you tell me what's wrong with me?

Most likely you've pushed yourself too much recently.

So your muscles became a bit rebellious.

But we'll bring that in order again.

No unnecessary movement...

...emotional change included, OK?

By the way, you'll have to give me an autograph...

...for my youngest, she's still crazy about your performance in The Sleeping Beauty.

In an emergency give her Polamidon.

I don't like it in the least; all the symptoms point to...?

I'd say it's a neuropathy.

Careful my friend, this field of study is still very uncertain.

Rather my suspicions are Polio.

I, ehm, also suspect this, and this in a dancer no less.

For the time being no mention of it to the Patient.

- Doctor... - Yes?

Oh, this is Tomkoff, a colleague of Ms. Sanden.

Oh yes, so I heard.

One thing's for sure, no cause for alarm.

Then I can visit her now?

Not now, she's fallen asleep again.

W-What should I d-do?

Tomkoff, and S-Sanden are still not here.

It'd be better if we just c-call the whole thing... off.

Close the door!

You've got s- some nerve. Oh, I'm sorry.

Could I speak with the director?

Close the door!

The director is not available to speak with anyone today.

What's with all the noise?

Can I be...?

Ms. Sanden and Mr. Tomkoff still haven't turned up to rehearsals.

Why? Have you called home already?

Yes, nobody's answering.

Could I please speak to you for a moment Director?

What are you doing, you can't just walk away from rehearsals... oh right.

Yes, what do you want?

Didn't you promise me a solo for the new piece?

Really?

Ehm, yes... Tomkoff will have to decide that.

Where on earth could he be?

Maybe he celebrated too much with Ms. Sanden.

Here's the figurine for the Boléro for Ms. Sanden.

Close the door!

All in blue satin crape of course.

How much?

Two thousand.

Too much.

There he is!

Look at you man.

Is Ms Sanden here too?

What's the matter with you? Did something happen?

Bettina was brought St. Katharina's Hospital last night.

What?!

The rehearsals will have to be canceled for now.

I don't want to be disturbed right now.

Tell the press immediately that instead of a Ballet evening, hmm...

...Rigoletto.

Organize a radio announcement and send flowers to...

...Ms. Sanden at St. Katharina's Hospital immediately.

In your name?

Yes. I mean, in the name of the whole theater of course.

Please write: " Congratulations... "

I mean, good recovery wishes. God! You know...

And what are you still doing here?

I'm waiting for you Director.

Well I don't have time now, come again tomorrow, or maybe...

No, please wait for now.

- Connect me to the news department... - We start with the rehearsals...

Who would be the replacement?

Irene Gerwig for example.

Irene Gerwig is out of the question.

Why?

The whole choreography relies on Bettina, without her I can't rehearse at all.

But she can at least pretend as long as-

- No pretending either! - But she could pretend...

Instead of the original ballet evening, Rigoletto.

- It's out of the question. - Yes hello...

Yes, because of sudden illness of Ms-

Close the door!

Forgive me; because of sudden illness of Ms. Bettina Sanden.

Excuse me.

Do you consider me so talentless?

Why do you say that?

Of course I won't be the same as Ms. Sanden...

If you were eavesdropping then you'll know my opinion.

It's enough to make you mad. Since days it's been; 'Please call, come by again tomorrow...'

Is this a hospital or a prison?

Not a theater at any rate.

Would you please behave yourself appropriately.

I just want to speak with Ms. Sanden.

You have been urgently awaited Doctor.

Good day Sister Sophie.

Good day. I'll let the head doctor know immediately.

And you tell me she can't be disturbed. I insist!

Good day Mr. Tomkoff.

You know me?

I've been an avid follower of your productions since many years.

It's just a shame you no longer dance yourself. Förster.

The head doctor has been notified.

Thank you sister.

I have always admired Ms. Sanden...

...she's the best ballerina he's had in years, isn't that so sister?

I never go to the theater.

I'll take you with me next time then.

When will your Boléro premier?

The rehearsals should have started four days ago.

Doctor Brinkmann will have to make an effort in order to regain the lost time.

The head doctor will see you now, Doctor.

Thank you sister.

Well, I hope we'll have a clearer image by say, five o'clock.

Where will I be able to reach you?

I'd rather come back here again.

OK.

Will you entrust me with that? I am reliable.

I'm sure there isn't a rope ladder inside for our ballerina to escape...

...from this 'prison'.

Thank you Doctor.

When did the signs of paralysis first occur?

Yesterday evening.

Which muscles...?

For now the right deltoideus and the left tibialis anterior.

And the quadriceps femoris?

That's been making me worry too since this morning.

Does she know what's wrong with her?

Of course not, I only spoke about neuropathy.

I've brought a visitor Ms. Sanden.

Kostja!

No, unfortunately just a herald in advance.

For you.

May I?

My Costume for the Boléro... how did you get this?

I got the task to give this to you since Mr. Tomkoff is still not allowed to visit.

But Doctor Brinkmann will soon give him permission to visit.

It's beautiful.

I wonder when I'll be able to wear it?

You'd best discuss that now with my colleague here Doctor Förster.

He's an authority in his department.

Excuse me, I have to do a ward round now.

Will you finally tell me what's wrong with me?

Oh, you got me. I'd rather have talked a while longer with you about the theater.

You seem to find it difficult to answer that...

I'd like to tell you the truth, but in my area it's a bit of an uncertainty.

I'll do everything in my power to get to the root of this.

I just need you to trust me.

Turn it on please.

Try moving your right foot.

OK now... move the left foot.

Try that again... believe in yourself!

Well look at that, you can do it.

The muscles aren't completely lame.

Thanks, that's was all.

Sorry it took a little longer than expected.

Do you have a cigarette by any chance?

- Is it bad? - Thank you.

Come, have a seat.

I'll be frank with you.

It doesn't look good.

I could give you a comprehensive medical explanation...

...but you wouldn't really understand that.

Then, how would a layman understand?

It's a case of infantile paralysis.

Luckily the affected central nervous systems are not completely destroyed.

It is possible to revive their functions as long as...

...as long as there is no muscular dystrophy.

But she'll be able to dance again right?

First she'll have to learn to walk again.

And... how long might that take?

That depends wholly on her personal willpower.

But you mustn't get cold feet now, I banked on you becoming my ally in this.

The examination has taxed Ms. Sanden a lot...

...so when you come tomorrow, you must give her courage.

The courage to get healthy again.

Well?

What now...

You've got some hard work ahead of you.

What's the matter with me?

You'll have to learn walking again, like a child.

And my arm?

Why, you are able to move it.

No...

But what if you suddenly had to embrace someone.

You shouldn't mock me so.

No no... come now.

We'll try it now.

Here.

Now lay your arm around me.

Well look at that, it is possible.

Mr. Tomkoff...

OK...

We'll repeat that exercise regularly from now.

I'll come by again later.

Thank you.

Would you do me a big favor?

Yes?

My favorite lipstick is in the nightstand drawer... could you give me it please.

It's difficult with my left, would you mind...?

If you please.

Kostja.

You look great.

Come sit down.

Closer...

Much closer.

Or are you worried I'll infect you?

Infect?

Yesterday the doctor told me that you'll be able to leave soon.

He's, an affable man.

He understands well to give others courage.

We haven't seen each other for so long.

How do you feel then? Are you in pain?

How are the rehearsals?

We're waiting for you of course.

The costume, did you like it?

It's exactly as I imagined.

Has the director approved it?

He'll agree to anything, if only you'd come back again.

But what if takes longer?

What?

I don't want to jeopardize the premier.

Who'd be my replacement?

There is no replacement for you.

I'm not about to do this piece with another.

The director can be as bullheaded as he wants.

He can be very stubborn though.

But so am I.

This ballet piece is reserved for you.

Otherwise he'll have to replace both of us.

Come, why don't you rather give me a kiss.

We'll never separate.

Never doubt that.

Sister?

You have to leave now.

Come again soon.

How's Bettina?

Thanks, it's going great.

When will she be back?

Hello Kostja.

Good evening... Tomkoff.

Don't mind me.

You won't bother me while I eat. Take a seat. What would you like?

- Vodka, double. - Very well.

Ever since Bettina's been hospitalized, you're living off vodka, am I right?

Did you see her today?

Yes, the head doctor himself is surprised at the rate of her recovery.

An after-treatment might be necessary, but...

You don't believe me do you.

I must have misheard on the phone.

The head doctor wasn't exactly clear in his answer but I did understand...

...that we'll have to do without Bettina in the coming months.

Regrettably.

Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you want.

There must be a reason why you called me here.

Since about a year I've had unremitting criticism from the press...

...that I don't promote enough new talents.

Now, if we really must recast the Boléro...

...then I'd like to try an experiment.

You can do this experiment without me.

You know that I don't like to pull rank.

But in this case I must insist that you at least give it a try.

With whom, that Ms. Gerwig?

Yes, why not?

I suppose she conveniently came in just now, perhaps?

On the contrary, I asked her to come here.

In that case you'll have to do the Boléro without me.

Don't forgot, rehearsals tomorrow morning at 9:00. Waiter...

Yes?

Bring him his cloak and money. It's on me.

Good evening Mr. Tomkoff.

No stop STOP!

Do you always have to smirk?

You won't fool the audience with your constant smirking.

No, no no no!

I can't stand it, I can't do this anymore!

Once again from the top.

Before the entrance of Ms. Gerwig.

What is it, what's the matter my child?

It won't work, he won't accept me.

So? You'll give up that easily? A chance such as this?

You don't know how much he torments me.

Why won't you defend yourself? Defend yourself.

Go buy some flowers, and do a little hospital visit.

Ms. Sanden will see you now.

I hope I'm not disturbing you.

On the contrary, it's nice of you to visit me.

I'm afraid there isn't an empty vase.

Would you put them in the washing basin?

Sure.

Everyone's spoiling me... being sick has its perks.

If you look at it that way.

No really. You begin to take things less seriously.

You'd actually be the best replacement for me in the Boléro.

Me?

Yes, I'm baffled as to why Kostja didn't think of it already.

- Sit yourself. - May I really?

Don't look so surprised. Don't you trust yourself to do the Boléro?

Oh, no, I do. But...

I've made a right mess of things.

It's no big deal.

You really think I can do the Boléro? But Mr. Tomkoff won't accept me.

Really? Shall I have a word with him?

That'd be awfully nice of you.

I don't want to keep you, and...

Thank you so much.

The others needn't know how I am.

Yes, I mean no.

Are you coming too?

Did you have trouble?

What did that Gerwig want from you?

She brought flowers. And she was a little clumsy with them.

Sounds like her.

Why so angry?

Oh, leave me alone.

How are you?

Better. But you're causing me worry.

Me? Why?

You have to work again Kostja.

Why won't you try it with Ms. Gerwig?

Not you too!

Shh... You're in a hospital here.

She really is a good dancer.

But me? He knows when I'll be able to perform again.

You really want to relinquish your place to her?

I will only do the Boléro with you.

You'll get healthy again and then...

And then we'll me marry, right?

Well yes of course.

And then we'll work together again.

And then we'll build ourselves a house, with a pretty garden in front.

And you'll push me down the gravel pathway in my wheelchair.

Please stop it, that's nonsense.

Forgive me, I'm insufferable today, darling.

It's all this persons fault!

You are doing her injustice.

You're doing it out of love for me.

- Who's there? - Is Ms. Gerwig home?

I'll have to check first.

Thanks, I'll find her myself.

Gentlemen callers aren't allowed here.

You've scratched my record now.

How could you bother Ms. Sanden?

You don't have any restraints.

Did you really come to tell me that?

No, I just wanted to make one thing clear.

Won't you sit down?

You've mistaken yourself here young girl.

You will not land your chance like this.

You wanted to make that clear?

Indeed. How could you push yourself onto the dying Bettina?

What are you compared to Bettina?

For the time being nothing, but even a Bettina Sanden started once.

Somebody believed in her. Otherwise she wouldn't have become the great dancer she is today.

I've always stood in her shadow.

Would you really resent me this chance if I grabbed it now?

And at the same time I know exactly what I'm risking...

...because even if the director gets his wish, even if I can dance for Bettina...

...people will still compare me to her.

The press will write "She's a nice little girl...

...but what is she compared to Bettina Sanden?"

And the audience will say: "She isn't a Bettina Sanden after all."

That's how the chance that I wanted to grab looks.

Don't start crying again, I've been in the theater business too long.

Tears don't impress me anymore.

Just leave! Right now!

I don't want the part anymore. You can tell the director I've realized how little talent I have.

I thought you had rehearsals tomorrow.

And... one... two... three... four...

Ms. Gerwig...

From bar 16 again please...

You're doing great, but, conserve yourself.

Don't try to anticipate the musical progression.

And another thing, your are allowed to smile a little.

Very good. I knew it Tomkoff, you'd bring the best out of her.

But you should check your watch from time to time.

How time flies. That's enough, lunch break.

And I'm no longer worried, touch wood, about the premier.

Doctor, why so late?

Yes I, ehm, is Ms. Sanden sleeping already?

I was just going there now to switch off the TV.

What, a television?

Yes, she wanted to see tonights performance.

Well, hopefully it didn't do her any harm.

Ms. Sanden...

Please make preparations for Ms. Sanden to move to Hohentannen tomorrow afternoon.

Mister? Mister?

What is it?

Can I have the stamps? Mister Kalborn is a collector.

Oh right, well here's the whole envelope then.

Thank you.

I've got something for you again. Overseas!

Overseas? Aah...

Who have we here?

If everyone drove around like our Eveline we'd have to get a traffic constable.

But Eveline, I can't hire a constable just for you.

You'll have to be satisfied with Mister Kalborn.

But we'll go get the doll pram out of the attic.

We'll do that.

But there isn't even a doll in it.

You'll get one from me as reward when you can walk properly again.

And what shall we give you when you're walking again?

Please not a doll.

Are you happy with your room?

Oh yes. I get a lot of sunshine.

Mr. Tomkoff called.

Did you respect my wishes?

I asked him not to visit you for the time being.

Thank you.

I've got something great for you Tomkoff.

Now where did I put it. Would you be interested to stage something abroad?

Yes why not?

The Spanish cultural attaché was watching the premier.

Apparently he really enjoyed the Boléro.

And?

Do you have the letter from the Opera house Barcelona, because I can't find it...

Yes, do bring it in then.

I'd grant you the holidays.

Ms. Gerwig would like to speak with you for a moment.

Yes of course, where is she?

She's waiting outside.

Quickly, show her in. You don't mind do you?

The director will see you now, Ms. Gerwig.

- Good day, Director. - Good day my child.

Good day, Ballet Master.

Are you discussing something?

You are welcome to listen to what we have to discuss.

Close the door.

You do that so adeptly. Why didn't you stay precision engineer?

Well you know, it's not the right thing with just one hand.

Rather a complete nurse than half a precision engineer, right?

Yes?

Yes please.

If you need anything else, just give me a ring, and I'll don an apron for you.

It's great to finally see you.

Finally?

I just wasn't allowed to see you.

I wanted to spare you the sight of me while...

Please sit yourself.

While?

While I couldn't move properly.

It's starting to get better now.

The Sleeping Beauty...

We'll do that together in the coming season.

Did you suggest it to Thorvalt already?

Of course.

And what did he say?

He's got other worries at the moment.

He's always got worries, that's why he's the director.

I still haven't congratulated you to your big success.

Irene's completely replaced me.

- No... - She has.

She really was brilliant.

But you haven't seen her yet.

But I've read the critics' reviews.

You've forgotten the sugar.

Bettina...

I need your advice.

Yes?

I have to stage the Boléro at the opera in Barcelona.

I'm happy for you.

Unfortunately, I won't be coming this time. You'll have to go alone.

You're just saying that.

After all...

Such a guest performance doesn't last forever.

How long will you be gone?

Don't know, four to six weeks.

Depends if we're successful or not.

We?

Well I didn't ask for her, but the management in Barcelona insisted.

Who are you talking about?

My god, about Irene Gerwig obviously.

I see.

Well yes, of course.

I understand that they'd want both of you.

What else can I do Bettina, you must understand I have to work.

Even if it's with Irene Gerwig.

But in the end, that has nothing to with us two.

Exactly.

You've always said that we'll stay together.

Even if you want it, I'd never let go of you.

I've got a favor to ask of you.

Bettina's contract won't be extended for the coming season.

She shan't worry herself about the future.

When the time comes, I'll still be there for her.

When the time comes we'll come to an agreement.

Well then. Safe journey. Best of luck.

Thank you.

By the way, where can I reach you?

Hotel Prado Barcelona.

Slowly young madam.

An old man won't keep up with that speed.

What have you done now, that'll leave scratches.

But it didn't leave any scratches.

Well be happy, who's supposed to pay for that?

Well then, we'll come collect that doll now.

You did a great job with that Eveline.

I could envy you for it.

Will I get my doll now?

Yes, she's in the desk, go get it.

Would you please tell the Doctor I'd like to speak with him?

We'll do that.

Yes?

The mail, Ms. Sanden.

Thank you sister.

A pleasure.

It's beautiful.

Yes very beautiful.

Can I have the stamps for Mister Kalborn?

Let me finish reading first.

The whole postcard?

What is it?

It's a greeting from Barcelona.

No, the picture.

A dead bull.

Did the man here kill it?

Probably.

Why did he do that?

Because people are cruel.

All of them?

Leave me alone now.

Are you sad because of the bull?

Just a little tired. Leave now.

But wait, we'll call Mister Kalborn.

But why, I can go to the terrace by myself.

Mister Kalborn will look surprised.

Watch out!

See? It's really easy.

I'd rather you waited until Mister Kalborn is here.

You've walked enough for today.

And close the door please.

I heard about all the things you accomplished today.

And you've received your prize already.

Yes, and this too.

What is it?

A dead bull.

Well look at that.

Well then run along.

Yes, that'll be the next thing you'll learn.

Miss Bettina!

Please, no harm's done. Just wanted to prove something, but I can't do it!

But you must have some patience.

I have that. I have far too much patience.

Hello everybody, the German dancer!

Fausto!

Here's the German dancer from the theater.

She's here? How fortunate! I want to see her.

What a woman.

Hey boys, the Boléro please.

Fausto.

Bring the flowers to the Ballerina.

See how famous you are?

Do you have something against that?

Why should I? After all, it means I'm doing my job right.

Oh excuse me. Sir Miguel Matatiendos?

Alex Sophorin, he's the biggest matador of Cataluña.

The greatest Toreador in Barcelona.

He has feelings of great admiration for you.

He blesses these flowers with the greatest of admiration.

These flowers...

The Bull is dead, long live the toreador.

I'm envious of the winds that kiss your worthy figure.

What did he say?

He envies the wind that kisses you.

Oh, these Spaniards are adorable.

He wouldn't be a Spaniard if he didn't openly admire a beautiful woman.

There you have it.

But it's not Spanish at all for a women to react.

Are you jealous?

You're highly gifted, but a little beast.

Is that a declaration of love?

That's not in our contract.

Contracts are there to be broken, are they not?

Could be the theater.

That can wait.

It could be important though.

Nothing is this important, Kostja.

Yes, hello?

It's for you.

Yes, Tomkoff.

What? And... and where?

- Very well, I'll wait. - What is it?

Yes.

My apologies for calling so late, I couldn't reach you earlier.

Doctor! Did something happen?

No no. No, Ms. Sanden is fine, at least considering the circumstances.

Yes...

Well she's in a crisis.

Maybe it's just loneliness.

You must help me.

Please, please speak with her.

I'll connect you in moment.

By the way, Mr. Tomkoff, if you don't mind...

...I'd like to let Ms. Sanden believe it was you who called.

Yes of course.

Who is it?

Kostja!

Bettina.

Thanks, I'm doing fine.

I'm sorry that I'm calling you so late-

Well, I was suddenly afraid for you.

Are you really better?

You must have felt it, how much I thought about you.

Kostja... do you still love me?

Please please please tell me how much you still love me.

I swear it to you Bettina.

I love you.

Hello?

The connection was broken.

Who are you really lying to?

Maybe, nobody.

That's not an answer.

Should I have told her on the phone, that we love other?

Tell me please.

Do you really love me?

Why do you always speak of things that are best left alone?

What else are the words for? I want to hear them.

You're very spoiled, Irene.

You'll get everything you want.

Good morning Ms. Sanden. How are you this morning?

I think I've made you worry too much recently.

Well, you are a patient after all.

A patient, that doesn't sound very nice.

What should I say then?

Kalborn always says there are no patients here...

...but only people, who are on their way to becoming healthy.

He's understood exactly what's important to me.

Do you know who called me last night?

Judging by your smile it isn't hard to guess.

Tell me truthfully Doctor.

Can I still become healthy?

Of course.

I mean completely healthy.

Completely healthy?

Will I... dance again?

Just as I used to?

Then why all the effort?

My life won't have any meaning anymore.

Miss Bettina, you mustn't say that.

There are other things to do than dancing.

Not for me.

Well then, we'll make a compromise.

The more intensely you want to dance again...

...the likelier it is you'll walk again.

I'll help you with everything I've got, alright?

Yes.

Well?

Did I disappoint you?

Rehearsals are often disappointing, but it always come down to the premier.

Don't worry.

Not a soul outside.

Take my arm.

Well?

I can't go any further.

That's what everyone says in the beginning...

...then they forget that sick leg.

Otherwise we'll have to close the curtains.

Sister Anni.

Congratulations to your first steps!

Thank you.

Who are the nice flowers from?

Why so curious?

There's something inside. May I have some too?

You'll get drunk.

And you won't?

I already am. Yes?

- Sorry for the intrusion. - No worries. A letter?

No, just the monthly bill. But I just heard; my congratulations!

Thank you.

But I didn't use the phone that much.

The call from Barcelona is included too.

Oh, but I was the one called.

On the contrary, I personally connected the call for the Doctor.

I see.

Ah, yes, that's right... my mistake.

See you later missus.

Miss Bettina, my doll can dance now. Shall I show you?

Another time, you should go now.

But definitely tomorrow.

Yes yes, tomorrow...

Is this also part of your therapy?

Not necessarily. But there's no harm in it.

Am I some sort of priority patient?

You haven't noticed yet?

I'd like to drink to your first steps.

I knew you're a good doctor. That you're a magician too is news to me.

Oh, why do you say that?

Well, conjuring a call from Barcelona in the middle of the night.

I wouldn't exactly call that magic.

Well, call it what you may.

Well unfortunately the administration put a spanner in the works for you.

The conversation is on my bill, and that's all right.

But you got what you intended.

Are you angry?

No.

At least I know now where I stand.

And that is also a reason to celebrate.

Yes, is this the Theater?

I'd like to get some information

Can you tell me when Mr. Tomkoff comes back from Spain?

What? Back already?

Oh but since when?

Since Sunday? Yes and-

No thank you.

I hear you asked for the final bill?

Do you wish to leave us?

Yes.

You told me yourself...

...from a medical point of view there's nothing against it.

Not from a medical point of view, no.

What will you do now?

I'll find myself an engagement.

I'll be sure to find employment in some provincial theater.

But that isn't a realistic goal for you.

Well look at me.

You have to be strong and healthy for a big theater.

Must it be a theater?

Indeed it has its allure, I myself was captivated by it.

But there are other things in life for you.

I could just be a shorthand typist! I only need my fingers for that after all.

I know I'm very ungrateful.

And you especially don't deserve such treatment.

I only did my duty as a doctor.

You did much more than that.

And I have no idea how I'll repay you in kind.

I was very happy to be able to look after you.

In parting I have a request for you.

Yes.

Come to the opera with me tomorrow evening.

To the opera?

Yes.

I want you to see the ballet with me.

The Boléro?

Yes.

Do you feel confident enough to do so?

I don't know.

But you must.

I'm also risking something with this, Miss Bettina.

Do you want to?

Very well, I'll come.

I'm sorry, but this table is reserved.

I beg your pardon, but that naturally doesn't apply to madam.

I'm sure the director will be pleased to see you.

May I?

Thank you Franz.

He's just new here. What may I bring?

Vodka, needless to say.

Vodka.

As long as it's OK for me.

No it's fine. The same for me.

Very well.

May I have this dance?

Me dancing?

Of course. Why not?

You see, it's going very well.

Because you're leading me.

To think I'm this far again, that I should dance again!

- I'm just so happy! - But Bettina.

Hold me tightly.

Don't you worry, I'm holding you.

Only if I'm clumsy I'll be stepping on your feet.

Good evening Kostja. Good evening Ms. Gerwig.

Congratulations to your success.

Thank you.

May I join you? Forster.

Evening Mr. Tomkoff.

I would've called you tomorrow morning but to... freshen up the Boléro.

I understand.

I'm happy you've recovered so quickly.

Do you know what's responsible for that?

Your call from Barcelona.

When will we start working again.

That's up to Doctor Forster.

But I'd like to greet the director now.

Bettina! What joy.

If I'd know you'd grace us today I would have garlanded your loge.

My former director.

- Forster. - Thorvalt. Pleased to meet you.

We'll talk about that 'former' part.

I hope I'm not disturbing you here.

On the contrary, we sat ourselves at your table.

Franz.

She's healthy again.

She can dance again.

You can start working with her again.

Did you already discuss the new ballet piece with her?

For two minutes.

Are you sorry she didn't stay longer?

Oh she'll always come between us.

Don't be so dramatic. Donny!

Vodka as always?

No, sherry.

Ever since he's back from Spain...

...the only thing he drinks is sherry.

Please stop here. I'd like to go inside for a moment.

What, the stage entrance?

Yes please.

Please wait here for me. I'll be right back.

Fine.

Ms. Sanden!

Well this is a surprise.

I'm actually quite angry with you.

What for Schimanski?

You were at the theater today and didn't even come greet me.

That's what I was planning to do now.

May I go onto the stage for a moment?

What a silly question!

You belong there.

What are you doing there Schimanski?!

But that's a part of it.

Please switch it off.

Well then.

See you soon, Ms. Sanden.

Let's go home.

THE END