The Ballad of the Fall Showcase

The Ballad of the Fall Showcase is the fifth episode of The Music Book. It aired on July 21, 2013.

Plot

 * Read the episode script here.

The episode begins with the glee club and other people streaming out of the Austen Conservatory. Sirens are blaring. It's revealed Danielle pulled the fire alarm because she smelled smoke. A firefighter reveals that the fire was arson. The glee club tries to solve the mystery, and Danielle reveals she was the last in the ladies' room while Ian was singing.

In a flashback, Mark rehearses "Never Say Never" for the showcase. Ian states that he, Connor, and Neal were the last to leave the conservatory with Mr. Dominguez and Ms. Handel.

There's a flashback to Danielle singing "I Who Have Nothing" at the showcase. Ellie said she was in the wings during Danielle's performance, but it's revealed she wasn't there the whole time. Ellie went to Gideon in the audience, and he calmed her down before she sang.

In another flashback, Ellie sings "On My Own" during the showcase. Danielle insists Ellie set the fire. Devin stands up for his co-captain and Danielle claims Devin likes Ellie. He then accuses Danielle of starting the fire.

Ian, in a flashback, sings "Unchained Melody." Danielle then insists Ellie set the fire to interrupt Paige's solo. Ellie calls in her roommate, Cate Mikkelson, to clear her alibi for the day before and the day of the showcase. Cate proves that Ellie was too busy to sneak off and set the fire. Danielle is then accused by several of the glee club members.

Paige is seen singing "All By Myself" and is interrupted by the fire alarm. It's established that Danielle and Ellie did not set the fire, but the mystery is left unsolved.

In the final scene, a girl crosses the crime scene tape and enters the Half Moon. The culprit is revealed to be Gabrielle. She converses with Winston, reveals how she started the fire, and reveals her motive. They team up to bring down the Dixie Singers and their first target is revealed to be Connor.

Trivia

 * Jacob Artist (Mark Winters) sang "Never Say Never" on Glee.
 * The Ballad of the Fall Showcase was originally supposed to air July 14 but was bumped back to July 21.