Applause, Applause

Outstanding performer for the week of March 5

Nervousness, excitement, desperation, exasperation and, finally, a big dose of outrage: Genie Francis released a mélange of emotions this week on General Hospital. Laura’s first big professional event -- the Face of Deception launch -- turned into the face of fiasco. Francis’ performance of Laura’s response to adversity, however, was an acting triumph.

Preparing for the festivities, Laura was an anxious new businesswoman, Francis’ face showing every nerve and insecurity. As the party got underway, family and friends gathered to support her. A glowing Elizabeth arrived, and Francis’ giggles that belied Laura’s nervousness were soon supplanted by the radiance of self-confidence.

But Laura’s moment of glory was short-lived. Gia lured and then locked Laura and Mac on the roof. “This has the markings of Carly all over it,” Laura seethed, as she slowly realized her nemesis had duped her. Francis exuded frustration and despair as she shivered in the winter cold. But all of Laura’s troubles seemed to fade away as she cuddled and danced in Mac’s arms to fend off the freezing temperatures.

When Scott arrived, he found a very mellow Laura. But within minutes, Laura was steaming again, later storming her way into Sonny’s penthouse. A commanding Francis erupted. “Everybody warned me about you,” she wailed, damning Carly for her unethical tactics. Francis’ furor gained momentum and her voice raised an octave as she blasted Carly point by point for her machinations.

When Sonny ordered Laura to stop, Francis composed herself clearly and with purpose; then, with quiet reserve, she appealed to Sonny’s sense of honor and fair play, and asked to be let out of their partnership. To Laura’s shock, Sonny offered to buy her out of Deception.

Francis’ jaw dropped, her eyes widened, and she stared at him in disbelief. “Wha-at?” she cried, succinctly conveying Laura’s mix of confusion and anger.

Then, with steely determination in her voice, Laura emerged as the poised businesswoman, reiterating how she’d worked too hard and come too far to let go of her dream. Francis’ bold tenacity blazed through loud and clear: Laura wasn’t about to roll over and play dead for anybody. Now or ever.

Janet Di Lauro