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
@melizmatea
I saw this on Broadway and it was phenomenal. This opening was incredible.It was the best production of Carousel I've ever seen and I really don't even want to see it again because I know nothing else will compare!!
@stevenvoorhees3107
I saw CAROUSEL at the Nat'l in early 1993. The Prologue, brilliantly staged, still thrills -- even after nearly 30 years . For me, it 's a truly treasured theatrical memory, and one of the greatest theatrical experiences of my life.
@catch101
That production spoiled me for all past and future productions. Devastating and beautiful.
@auroraspiderwoman5886
Best Broadway musical revival ever.
@nationalbouton
I was lucky to be having lunch in the NT cafeteria with a friend who worked there on the day this production had its dress rehearsal. No show was scheduled in the Lyttelton but I saw people pouring in the theatre and my friend said "Go in. No-one will notice: they'll think you work here." So I ended up sitting about five seats down the aisle from a guy I didn't recognise who turned out to be Nick Hytner! What a magical afternoon that was! Like you, I am forever spoiled.
@stevenvoorhees3107
Indeed. Saw it at the RNT in early 1993. It remains a treasured theatrical memory.
@PressureLuck
It will be nearly impossible to top the staging of this perfectly executed Prologue from this production. But I cannot wait for the 2018 revival!
@Samarastube
Oh I had only read about this...thank you SO much for sharing!
@auroraspiderwoman5886
+Samarastube
Very glad you liked it---thanks for the comment.
@WilliamJCroft
Wow, the opening on this production is more stunning than the 1956 Hollywood movie. Amazing staging. My first exposure to Carousel was the musical mounted by our high school choral group in ~ 1966.