[Overture — solo piano, delicate strings, distant woodwind] [Verse 1 — intimate male theatrical vocal] I’ve got two coins in my pocket, And neither one is mine, A room above a baker’s shop, And rent that’s overdue by nine. I’ve got a coat that’s seen three winters, A collar slightly frayed, But I’ve got a name for Broadway, And darling, I’ve got plans to be made! [Brief orchestral flourish] They said, “Young man, be sensible, The city’s full of dreams.” I said, “Then I’ll take the biggest one, And pay for it in schemes!” [Pre-Chorus — strings gradually rising] For somewhere past the ticket booths, Past velvet ropes and chandeliers, There’s a fellow waiting for his chance Who’s been waiting half his years… [Chorus — full theatrical orchestra] Dreamtime Baby, Keep the curtain hanging high! Dreamtime Baby, I’m the penniless fellow reaching for the sky! I may arrive with nothing, But nothing’s quite enough When you’ve got one ridiculous dream And you’re stubbornly in love! Dreamtime Baby, Let the great adventure start! I’ve got Broadway in my footsteps And a borrowed bit of heart! [Orchestral interlude] [Verse 2 — playful theatrical delivery] I know a man who knows a man Who once shook hands with someone Who had a cousin in a chorus Who knew the producer’s son! Now that’s practically an introduction, At least that’s what I say, And if optimism paid the rent, I’d own the place today! [Comedy brass accent] I’ve auditioned in the morning, I’ve auditioned after lunch, I’ve performed beside a fire escape And underneath a brunch! They’ve said, “You’ve got potential.” I’ve said, “Splendid! Where’s the part?” They’ve said, “We’ll keep your number.” I’ve said, “I’ve only got a heart!” [Musical pause] And apparently that’s not enough. [Big orchestral swell] [Bridge — slower, sincere] Perhaps tomorrow brings a rejection, Perhaps another closed door, Perhaps the city hasn’t noticed What I’ve been rehearsing for. But every great beginning Must look absurd at first, And every starving dreamer Has to conquer being cursed! [Build] So let them laugh at my shoes, Let them laugh at my coat, Let them laugh at the little flat Where I practice every note! Because when that orchestra rises, And the house begins to glow, I’ll be standing in the spotlight Saying— [Sudden dramatic pause] “I told you so!” [Final Chorus — enormous Broadway climax] Dreamtime Baby! Raise the curtain, strike the band! Dreamtime Baby! I’ve come to claim my little corner of the promised land! I came here with a suitcase, A song and fifty cents, But dreams don’t need a fortune, They only need persistence! Dreamtime Baby! Hear the orchestra begin! Tonight I’m still a penniless chap— Tomorrow I might get in! [Full orchestra — triumphant] Dreamtime Baby! Let the whole damn city see— I haven’t got a penny, But Broadway’s got a place for me! [Grand orchestral finale] [Male solo, warmly] And if they haven’t… [small pause] I’ll write one. [Final orchestral chord]
