Act 1
Scene 1 Scene 1a
(picture from "Cool Hand Luke")
HW That’s a good one, Jimmy. I’ll keep that in mind.
J Oh, I’m just busting you one, you know. I get it. Your Dad is pretty demanding. No doubt.
Scene 2
The Girl Next Door
The girl next door
Fosters
Scene 1 i Walking George HW With friend (Jimmy).
J Hey, George! Great to see you, man! How are you? Any trouble?
J Hey, George! Great to see you, man! How are you? Any trouble?
HW No, not really. The recruiter’s car had a bit of engine trouble, that’s all. I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.
J No, it’s fine. No problems. So tomorrow is the big day?
HW Yes! I’ve been looking forward to it for months, but now that it’s here, I’m a bit worried, that’s all. I don’t want to disappoint Mother or Father. You know.
J Yeah, I’m sure you’ll do fine. Top of your class, just like school, or baseball, or whatever you do. Man, you seem to glide through it all, George.
HW I’ve been pretty fortunate, that’s true. But it hasn’t all been easy, you know? My Dad has pretty high expectations.
J Your Dad has High Expectations? Is that it? Man…
Smooth Flowing Stone
You got your horn of plenty,
You got your diamond ring
You got your family heirlooms and your mansion on the bay
But I didn’t set forth, on no smooth flowing stone.
The road I walk on, I had to smooth out on my own, hey hey hey
I didn’t set forth on no smooth flowing stone
I’ve walked a thousand miles, and still ain’t found my home
I know you got your problems… which car should you drive?
All this sterling silver, which fork goes with which knife?
This world’ll grab you, it’ll knock your breath away
But if you need a hand out you better look the other way
Because I didn’t set forth..
HW Pitiful!!
[Duet HW and Jimmy]
I/You didn’t set forth, on no smooth flowing stone
The road I/you walk on I/you had to smooth out on my/your own, [GHWB}yeah, yeah yeah / wahh wahh wahh
I/You didn’t set forth, on no smooth flowing stone
I/You walked a thousand/million [with much sarcastic drama] miles, and still can’t find a home.
HW That’s a good one, Jimmy. I’ll keep that in mind.
J Oh, I’m just busting you one, you know. I get it. Your Dad is pretty demanding. No doubt.
HW He just wants what’s best for me. It’s fine. But how have you been? You still with Pam?
J I thought I told you about that in my last letter.
HW I haven’t gotten any mail in a while, Jimmy. Sorry.
J Well, after her father found about my little run in at Foster’s – you know that old bar, up on 9th?
G Sure, I used to play dominos there.
J Yes, that’s the one. Anyway, he told Pam I was bad news and she left me. I was pretty down. I decided I would focus on my studying. One night, I was reviewing some Calculus when I heard some odd noises...
Act 1 Scene 2
Scene 2
The Girl Next Door
The girl next door
I like the way she sings
It lets me know when she’s doing her thing
It lets me know
When she’s got herself a man
It lets me know
She’ll do it when she can
It’s 3 AM baby, don’t say maybe, c’mon and sing!
The girl next door
She’s got her hair up right
One thing’s for sure
She’s going out tonight
Oh, it’s the smile on her lips
The makeup on her face
The movement of her hips
Going to lead him to her place
She’s got herself a date, I can hardly wait, she’s going to sing
What a nice surprise
It’s that girl from next door
She’s got that look in her eyes
She said she heard my guitar
She said she heard every string
I made her want to sing.
Well I’m so glad I met her ‘cause her songs sound even better when she sings.
And she sings. Yeah she sings!
Mimi (Girl next door) Hey JC, you want to go out and grab a burger?
Jimmy No, sweetie. I need to study.
Mimi Well you’re a real drag! All you do is work and go to school!! I’ll see you later.
[J Turns head to audience… Befuddled]
Borderline
First she tells me that she loves me so completely,
Then she tells me to get out of her life
She tells me that she never wants to see me
Then she tells me that she wants to be my wife
There’s something wrong inside of her
There’s too few bells that chime
If I could find an antidote I’d cure my borderline
Just pennies in a wishing well, a quarter and a dime
I wished a million dollars worth to cure my borderline, can’t cure a borderline…
While I’m holding her she whispers that she loves me
And she hopes that it will always be this way
But in the darkness I can hear her softly sobbing
And she’ll tell me I’m the root of all her pain.
There has to be an end to this, I’m tired of killing time
In this revolving door of bitterness with my borderline
Just Pennies in a wishing well, a quarter and a dime,
I wished a million dollars worth to cure my borderline, can’t cure a borderline, can’t cure a borderline.
(return to scene 1)
Act 1 Scene 1b
[Back to First Scene…
J Yeah, that didn’t last long.
HW I see that.
[Jimmy after reflecting.. ] Yeah… well, You know. Things happen. Now I’m going out with the sweetest thing I ever met! She is so smart, she’s funny. And she’s got real class, Georgie, real class. Her name is Barbara, but I just call her Babs.
HW Barabara, huh. Well, I can’t wait to meet her.
J You will, Georgie. I told her you were coming in and she said she had a friend and we could hang out. Maybe Fosters, now that you mention it. Play some dominos, get to know each other, drink a few beers.
HW A blind date? No thanks, man. I don’t think so. Besides, what does she look like?
J I don’t know, G. But Babs says she is really fun. A bit moody. Just come and if she’s a howler I’ll cover you. It’ll be fun. Besides, I really want you to meet Babs so you can feel good for my change of fortune!
HW OK, Jimmy. But I can’t stay too late. I have things I need to take care of. You know I have a navy career starting tomorrow.
J Yeah, I know. But we’re going to enjoy tonight, ok? We won’t get stupid.
HW Ok. Sounds good!
Act 1 Scene 3a
Fosters
J Hey, George! Babs called and is on her way. You look great man. Sit down. Don’t look like that, it’s going to be fine. Babs says her friend is pretty excited. And don’t worry. Babs said she’s not shy at all. You just relax. She’ll do most of the talking, she said
HW I’m fine, don’t worry about me. I am just not sure that I should be here. I think I’ll just meet your new girlfriend, have a drink, and head out. No big deal.
J Sure, Geore, sure. That’s fine. There she is! She looks … Oh no!!! I can’t believe it . I can’t frigging believe it. Her friend is Mimi!!
HW What? Who?
J That nutty girl I was telling you about. My ex-neighbor. Oh man. I can’t believe it.
BB [coming to table] Hey, Jimmy! I want you to meet..
M We’ve met (smacks gum). We know each other pretty well. (knowing chuckle).
BB What do you mean?
M He’s the jerk I was telling you about?
BB I thought you said his name was JC. Oh. J. Jim. I get it. [now distraught and disgusted]
M Yeah, well I got it. And got it. And got it again. (gum smack) And you can have it! He’s a real drag!
J Barbara.. give me a second. I can explain. Oh, and this is George. He’s my best friend.
BB Hello, George. It’s nice to meet you. And I hate to be rude, but I don’t think I will be staying. I think I’ve had enough fun for one evening.
J C’mon Barbara, let me talk to you. Just give me a minute [B&J exit]
M Hmmm. Well, this is awkward.. I hope she dumps him! He’s a loser!
HW Nahh, he’s ok.I mean, I don’t know what happened with you two, but I’ve known him a long time. He’s pretty good hearted.
M He was Ok., I guess He was too busy, though.
HW Yeah, he’s pretty busy.
M What about you, George?
HW I’m about to be pretty busy myself. I am joining the navy tomorrow.
M Really? Wow. How exciting.
B [enters booth.] Yes, George, how exciting. I bet you are a real gentleman.
G I try. I believe in God, family, and country, in that order.
B Hmm, well, that makes at least two of us.
M yeah, I believe in that. [Smack]. How ‘bout you Jimmy?
J Sure I do, of course, you know that Memes.
B Meme’s.. oh, that’s rich. Why don’t you tell me more about yourself, George?
G Sure. I like to read. Do you know my favorite author?
[Lights dim briefly. Next thing, time passed.]
B [ patting George’s arm] Oh, that’s a funny one! You really make me laugh.
J – Yeah, that’s great. Hey, I need another drink. Anyone else?
B [still laughing] ahh, No thanks, Jimmy. I’m fine.
HW [adoringly] You sure are.
J Serioulsy!!! You hitting on her!! My girl! The night I introduce you! Seriously!
BB Now, Jimmy, it’s OK. He’s just having fun. Besides, he’s joining the navy tomorrow. Don’t you worry. But, on second thought, I’ve changed my mind. [winks at George, knowing smile]. I think I’ll have a ginger ale, please. Thank you!
[J still leering at HW]
M: It’s ok, Jim. Let’s go. I’ll help you carry them
[Walk to bar… HW and B still illuminated at their table, talking, laughing, arm patting by BB.]
J Meme’s can you believe that guy! I ought to..The nerve of that guy.
M It’s not just him, JC. Look at her! She can’t take her eyes off of him!
J Oh, C’mon. They just met.
M Well, remember when we first met? [Raised eyebrows, smirk, etc. Jim, at first a bit confused, exchanging glances, finally gets it.]
Well, things happen! I think that ship may have sailed, JC.
J I don’t think so.
M I think you do…
Cool, cold to touch
She’s cool, so cold to touch
You wanted her so much
She tells you that you’re the one
But you know who she’s thinking of she’s
Cool, so cold to touch
She’s cool, so cold to touch
You wanted her so much
She tells you that you belong
But you can’t even turn her on she’s
Cool, so cold to touch
Instrumental
She’s cool, so cold to touch
You wanted her so much
She tells you that you’re the one
But you know who she’s thinking of she’s
Cool, so cold to touch
[HW and BB get closer as the song progresses, holding hands, arm around her, embrace, slow, gentle kiss.]
J Arrrhhh, you are right. Dammit! Dammit! I’m sorry Memes… great seeing you and all, but I’ve got to get out of here. I’ve got to get some fresh air or something.
M Jimmy, what do you want me to tell your friend?
J What friend??
Act 1 Scene 4
[Scene outside Fosters, J walking around…]
Lonely Man
Lonely man walking the rails tonight,
His arms are heavy and his belly’s tight,
As he dreams of a girl. He used to know.
He carries in his head her photograph.
And the tape recordings of the sound of her laugh
And the look in her eye. When she said no.
Lonely man you look a lot like me
Lonely man you look like me
In another time, in another place
Nothing softer than his angel’s face
As he brushed away a tear. That he put there.
Got no peace of mind, he’s got no peace of soul
There’s no soft woman for him to hold
But he keeps on trying, it’s all he knows.
Lonely man you look a lot like me
Lonely man you look like me
Lonely man walking the rails tonight,
His arms are heavy and his belly’s tight,
As he dreams of a girl. He used to know.
He carries in his head her photograph.
And the tape recordings of the sound of her laugh
And the look in her eye. When she said no.
Act 1 Scene 3b
[Back to HW and BB]
HW Barbara, I just can’t tell you how glad I am I got to meet you. You remind me of that line in “The Count of Monte Cristo”, from Maximilien to Valentine “I need to tell you that I adore you, so that the echo of my own words will gently caress my heart when I am no longer with you.”
B Oh, George, that’s the sweetest thing anyone’s ever said to me.
HW I like saying sweet things to you. But I leave tomorrow! And I think the navy is going to be getting damaged property after all, despite my physical. My heart is elsewhere!
B Oh, George, you’ll be fine. I know it. And we’ll write. We’ll stay in touch.
HW Barbara, when I’m with you, it feels like I’ve turned a corner. All those uncertainties, all those lumps that life can give you. It feels like I’m free.
Finally
Finally something nice is happening to me
Finally something good is happening to me
Finally something nice is happening to me
Something wonderful is happening to me
She tells me that she loves me
And she looks me in the eye
She tells me that I keep her satisfied
She tells me that she needs me
And she’ll never let me go
I’m living in a miracle I know
Finally something nice is happening to me
Finally something good is happening to me
Finally something nice is happening to me
Something wonderful is happening to me.
[closes with long embrace between BB and HW]
Act 1 Scene 5
Church
Lights up with Mimi next to BB, in wedding dress, and HW alone next to BB.
Pastor: Before they exchange vows George has something prepared.
[HW sings while playing guitar]
Buddy
Buddy, my buddy, my soft cheeked buddy.
I’ll hold you in my arms, my buddy girl.
And buddy, my buddy, my sweet angel buddy,
I’m so grateful you’re living in my world.
And when I’m in trouble, yeah when I’m feeling down
My buddy makes me feel good again.
When the world has me imprisoned, she’ll let me out.
My buddy is my very best friend.
Buddy, my buddy, my soft cheeked buddy.
I’ll hold you in my arms, my buddy girl.
And buddy, my buddy, my sweet angel buddy,
I’m so grateful you’e living in my world.
I’m so happy you’re living in my world.
I thee wed my sweet, buddy girl.
Pastor Thank you George. Always sing to your wife! Make her laugh!
Now, If anyone has any reason why these two young people should not be united.. let them speak now or…
J [interrupting from back] I’d like to speak! (Eyes to back where Jimmy walks forward). Crowd gasps and mumbles as Jimmy goes forward, taking guitar from George.
P Young man, what is it you’d like to say?
J Well, George, you know what I’ve got to say to you. But I think I’m going to talk to your wife to be..
Each Other’s Dreams
I wanted to do everything for you.
Make the sun shine, and the moon glow too.
He’s my best friend, you know it’s true.
But I’ve got one last thing I’d like to ask of you.
I hope you’ll make his dreams come true.
And I hope he’ll do the same for you.
Good love’s so hard to find
Right now it isn’t mine
But I hope you’ll make each other’s dreams come true.
I went away and you found each other’s arms.
I love you both, I don’t mean to cause alarm.
But sometimes late at night
I think of those times gone by
And I hope you’re there to keep each other warm.
And I hope you’ll make his dreams come true.
And I hope he’ll do the same for you.
Good love’s so hard to find, right now it isn’ t mine
But I hope you’ll make each other’s dreams come true.
I see you at the beach, playing in the sand.
I see you walking the shoreline, hand in hand.
It’s good to see the smile that’s on your face,
And the look in his eye tells me love has found its place.
And I know you’ll make his dreams come true.
And I know he’ll do the same for you
Good love’s so hard to find
You found yours, and I’ll find mine.
And I know you’ll make each other’s dreams come true.
P Well said young man, well said.
[J and HW embrace]
“I now pronounce you man and wife. Uhhh, not you two! The world is not ready for that! (HW and J to crowd.. yet! (?)).
[HW and B exit, leaving J and Mimi]
M Gosh, JC. That was really sweet.
J Nah, it’s the least I can do. I was kind of a jerk to George and Barbara. I really do want the best for them. And, Memes, I was kind of a jerk to you, too.
M Kind of?
J (Laughs). I’m sorry. And I want the best for you, too.
M Yeah, well I’m fine. (Gumsmack.) You weren’t so terrible, Jimmy. It’s just that you were always busy.
J I’m still busy, Mimi. I’m not like George. I got to make ends meet. It takes two jobs just to stay even.
Working Man
I’m just a working man I’m doing the best I can
I’m just a working man I’m doing the best I can
When you look at me you’re looking at a working man
Don’t know much but I know exactly what I am
Sometimes the night falls so hard it crushes me.
Tell me baby, tell me that you’ll rescue me.
I tasted freedom in our very first kiss.
I’m just a working man, I shouldn’t have to live like this.
I’m just a working man, I’m working here for the man
But in his heart, I know he doesn’t give a damn
Some day baby, I’ll be going for a ride.
Tell the man he can kiss my working ass goodbye.
I’m just a working man.
I’m just a working man.
I’m just a working man.
M Rescue you? Well…. I’ll think about it.
J What do you mean, you’ll think about it? I know you like me! It’s all over your face!
M You wish, Jimmy. You guys are all the same. Just because we’re at a wedding, just because I said you were sweet, you think I’ll get all weak in the knees and just fall apart and forget everything that’s happened.
J Well, how long are you going to make me wait? I said I was sorry. And I mean it. Let’s give it another shot!
M I don’t think so, Jimmy.
J Well, …
89
You know you love me I can see it in your eyes
Still you keep me waiting in line with them other guys
You tell me you don’t love me, hey I don’t believe your lies
It’s just a matter of time before you’re ready to be mine.
Maybe the first one will get hit by a truck
maybe the second one will pass on as you …
maybe the second one will pass on as you …
Maybe you’ll find me when you turn 89
And whisper in my ear that you’re ready to be mine.
I’ll wait for you forever, if that’s the price I’ve got to pay
The thought of your sweet love will carry me through each lonely day
My brother’s children will have children, and I’ll forget their names
They’ll call me Uncle Fester and whisper that I’m gay
Maybe the first one will get hit by a truck
Maybe the second one will pass on as you …
Maybe you’ll find me when you turn 89
And you’ll whisper in my ear that you’re ready to be mine.
(Mimi puts finger to lips at key word.. rhymes with truck).
M Well…. Maybe not that long.
[Walks off w J following.]
(time passes.. powerpoint shows HW at CIA, HW defeated by Reagan, HW VP, HW defeats Dukakis, now president, “Points of Light”).
Act 1 Scene 6
[White house…]
BB You sure you’re going to be OK for a few days while I’m gone? I feel I’ve got to go out and do something. You know, all your talk about being “points of light” what kind of wife would I be if I just sat here taking afternoon tea and walking Millie?
HW I’ll be fine. I’ve got a few people around here looking out for me, you know. Just make sure you’re taking some people who will be looking out for you!
BB Oh, of course I will, George. I’ll be fine. I don’t think there’s much on the schedule today for you to worry about. Just touring a few places. Pressing the flesh.
HW Well they’ll be lucky to be pressed by you, Barbara.
Act 1 Scene 7
Pediatric Ward
[Nurses all dressed for respiratory isolation threat – gloves, yellow gown]
Nurse, leading tour This is our AIDS ward, Madam first lady. We don’t need to stay here long.
BB There’s so many of them. So innocent.
[Baby begins to cry – BB looks to nurse who begins reaching for a mask / gloves. Baby cries more intently BB looks again at nurse, and walks forward and picks up baby…]
BB There, there. Little one.
Only little one
Oh my only little one
Oh my only little one
How I hate to see you cry
Come and lay down by my side
I want to kiss your tears away
Let me kiss your tears away
By your side I’ll always stay
Come tomorrow, come what may
Oh my only little one.
Oh my only little one.
How I hate to see you cry
Come and lay down by my side
Now the day is nearly done
Now the day is nearly done
I will sing a lullabye
Close your eyes now, don’t you cry.
Oh my only little one.
Oh my only little one.
[On second verse other nurses take off their gowns and pick up babies. Ends with BB and nurses singing reflectively the verse.]
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