In this witty, sardonic comedy number, showgirl Ellie amusingly laments the lack of glamour in her show biz career. Ellie’s comical but clear-eyed assessment of the entertainment world foreshadows the difficulties Magnolia will later face as she pursues the life of a performer.
Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man
Julie and Queenie share their devotion to their respective loves, Steve and Joe. Though composed by Kern and Hammerstein, “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man” functions in Show Boat‘s narrative as a traditional tune that would be familiar to Black men and women in America. When Julie, who is biracial but “passing” as white, sings the song, Queenie voices surprise that … Read More
Ol’ Man River
Joe, a hardworking stevedore, acknowledges the slow, steady flow of the Mississippi River and notes its indifference to the hardships of life, particularly for Black Americans. Part anthem, part prayer and part commentary on the narrative of Show Boat, “Ol’ Man River” is the core of the musical and the show’s most famous song. “The melody of ‘Ol’ Man River’ … Read More
Only Make Believe
Gaylord Ravenal and Magnolia meet by chance on the wharf and are instantly smitten. To abide by the laws of social propriety, they pretend to have known each other already. This “almost” love song, in which the romantic leads express their attraction conditionally, became a signature of Oscar Hammerstein’s work. Later examples include “If I Loved You,” “People Will Say … Read More
All I Owe Ioway
After a triumphant win for their prized hog, Abel and his family express pride and admiration for their home state. Soon everyone joins them in honoring the great state of Iowa.
It’s a Grand Night for Singing
On the last night of the fair, romance fills the air at the Starlight Dance Meadow, where couples twirl on the dance floor and sing along with the band.
Isn’t It Kinda Fun?
Margy meets a worldly reporter named Pat, who wishes for something more exciting to report on. But Margy loves the fair, saying it’s how all of Iowa takes pride in what they do with their lives. Margy and Pat don’t exactly get along, but they do seem to enjoy one another.
That’s for Me
When a glamorous and somewhat mysterious woman rescues him from a corrupt carnival barker’s scam, headstrong Wayne is smitten.
It Might as Well Be Spring
Margy, unsatisfied with her life, is eager for a change. Though she can’t seem to figure out why, she’s “as restless as a willow in a wind storm.” This Academy Award-Winning Best Original Song was performed by Jeanne Crain in the film State Fair, but her voice was dubbed by Louanne Hogan. In his biography of Richard Rodgers, William G. … Read More
The Next Time It Happens
Trying to share his feelings, Doc asks Suzy what she’s looking for in a partner. Somehow, things don’t go as planned, and their opportunity at romance appears lost. Still, they both resolve to be smarter the next time they fall in love.