Show Synopsis:
Esther is in love with her next door neighbor John, while her older sister Rose is expecting Warren to propose to her. Esther confronts John for attacking her youngest sister Tootie, but then Tootie tells the truth, which is that John protected Tootie and their sister Agnes from the police after they pulled a prank that went wrong. Esther and John kiss and she is excited to begin their relationship, but then Esther?s father announces that they are moving to New York. At Christmas, Esther?s grandfather takes her to the elegant ball when John leaves his tuxedo at the tailor?s, and she fills up Lucille Ballard?s dance card with awkward guys out of jealousy. When she realizes Lucille wants to dance with Lon, she switches their dance cards and converses with the awkward men instead. John swoops in, surprisingly in his tuxedo, they dance, and he proposes to her. Esther?s father announces that they are not going to move to New York, since it would upset his family too much. Warren proposes to Rose and the family makes preparations to go to the World?s Fair.	

Character:
Esther, a young woman who often lets her feelings get away from her; very loyal to her family.

Song Context:
Tootsie is upset about moving to St. Louis, and Esther tries to comfort her.

Fun Facts:
1) This musical was originally a film based on Sally Benson?s short stories and novel Meet Me in St. Louis. 
2) This song has become an American standard and a popular Christmas song. Many artists have recorded it over the years, including Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. 
3) Lyricist Hugh Martin was urged many times to rewrite the lyrics to be more optimistic.