Prologue
1994 London Revival Cast Lyrics
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Before their time on this planet is through
Some just don't have anything planned
They hide their hopes and their heads in the sand
Now I don't say who is wrong, who is right
But if by chance you are here for the night
Then all I need is an hour or two
To tell the tale of a dreamer like you
We all dream a lot, some are lucky, some are not
But if you think it, want it, dream it, then it's real
You are what you feel
But all that I say can be told another way
In the story of a boy whose dream came true
And he could be you
The opening song of the 1994 London revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, "Prologue" sets the tone of the show and introduces us to the theme of dreaming. The lyrics talk about how some people have grand plans and dreams for their lives while others have no direction and simply avoid thinking about their future. The singer establishes that he won't judge either way, but offers to share the story of a dreamer with the audience.
The song emphasizes the idea that anything is possible if you have a dream and the determination to make it come true. If you want something badly enough and actively work towards it, it can become a reality. The emphasis on dreams and aspirations sets up the biblical story of Joseph, who has big dreams and works hard to achieve them, even when he faces setbacks and struggles.
The song also touches on the idea that we are what we feel. Our beliefs and attitudes shape our reality, and if we approach life with optimism and positivity, good things can happen. It's a hopeful message that encourages the audience to believe in themselves and their dreams.
Overall, "Prologue" serves as an inspiring opening to Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, reminding us of the power of dreaming and the potential within each of us.
Line by Line Meaning
Some folks dream of the wonders they'll do
There are people who imagine the great things they want to achieve in their lifetime
Before their time on this planet is through
Before they pass away and leave this world
Some just don't have anything planned
However, there are people who don't have any particular goal in mind
They hide their hopes and their heads in the sand
They conceal their aspirations and ignore reality
Now I don't say who is wrong, who is right
I'm not the one to judge who is correct or incorrect
But if by chance you are here for the night
But if you happen to be listening to me at this moment
Then all I need is an hour or two
All that I request is a little bit of your time
To tell the tale of a dreamer like you
So that I can narrate you the story of someone who had similar aspirations as you
We all dream a lot, some are lucky, some are not
We all have ambitions in life, and some of us are fortunate enough to achieve them while others are not that fortunate
But if you think it, want it, dream it, then it's real
However, if you imagine it, desire it, and fantasize about it, then it becomes a reality
You are what you feel
Your emotions shape your personality
But all that I say can be told another way
But the same message can be conveyed differently
In the story of a boy whose dream came true
Like the tale about a young man who accomplished his dream
And he could be you
And that young man could be you
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: THOMAS KITT, BRIAN YORKEY
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
La Misere
This is my favorite version of the overture. It has some minor cuts and some parts are slightly altered but the tempo and overall pacing is the best ever!
Gábor Kővári
This touches me so much. Puccini and Gershwin didn't get their chance for writing the music, Molnár gave the rights to Rodgers and Hammerstein much later when settled down in the U.S. This wonderful piece plays loud in my head everytime when i'm in the City Park of Budapest, where Molnár's original story with full of autobiographical elements took place. City Park has still fairs and attractions all the time - you can even ride a 111 year old beautiful carousel - , yet there is depression sighing in all the joy, souring and fouling in the depths of sweetness. The fullness of life and a big question. Even in afterlife.
Lorenzo DOria
I really love this recording!!
PaquitoNYC
This is my favorite musical ever. This is my favorite production of my favorite musical ever. The dude who plays Billy in the original cast recording is a bit wince inducing, but overall just effing beautiful.
Flan Plan
I had a music box as a kid that played this song!!!! Always brings me back...
C. Scott Zimmerman
Was so lucky to see this spectacularly dark production. First time I heard Audra McDonald and knew instantly that she would take home the Tony for her performance. Brilliant.
ja2ui0
You used exactly the right word there. Dark. For musicals of its time, darkness was not a typical theme. For me, it's what makes Carousel probably the best musical - folk opera, if you allow it - of the the 20th century. I am pretty sure that any person who doesn't walk out of a decently produced Carousel bawling and emotionally distraught is questionably inhuman.
D Zilla
Something enchanting and mystical about a carousel. I loved them as a kid whenever I attended the fair
Anthony Simpson anygoround
At 4:09 you will hear the simulated effect of a band organ, complete with percussion. Another nice touch added to my favorite piece of music, and it truly was an innovative production.
ja2ui0
This is the best recording of my favorite musical ever. Thank you for posting!