Show Synopsis:
Queenie wants to throw a party so she can embarrass her boyfriend Burrs, and invites a number of ecccentric people, including Mr. Black. Mr. Black believes Queenie needs to saved from Burrs, despite the fact he's dating Kate. Kate tries to seduce Burrs but he confesses he is upset with his relationship with Queenie and scolds Queenie for trying to seduce Mr. Black. As Burrs slips slowly into insanity and begins to hallucinate, Queenie and Mr. Black begin to have sex, but are stopped by Burrs. Black kills Burrs and flees.
Character:
Kate, a theatrical and confident Southern hooker in her mid-20s; she is in love with Burrs and loves being adored.
Song Context:
While the party continues outside, Kate stands alone and wonders about what in her life led her here, remembering her youth.
Fun Facts:
1) This musical is based on Joseph Moncure March's narrative poem of the same name.
2) This musical premiered Off-Broadway during the same season that another musical based on March's poem opened on Broadway.
3) Idina Menzel originated this role and was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for her performance.
"Who needs money?
Not me.
Who needs fortune or fame?
I don't need a new career
A sympathetic ear
A name.
All I need is time to pay
Only want the game
Point me to the mike
I know what I like.
Don't you wanna be
The life of the party?
Don't you wanna be
The cream of the crop?
Don't you wanna feel those shivering fits
'Til someone calls it quits
Or someone calls a cop?
Don't you wanna land
The role of a lifetime?
Well, you better get down on one knee
'Cause you could play the life of the part
If you can pray with me.
Who needs lovers?
Not I.
Who needs Heaven above?
Don't have time for things unsaid
For baking bread
For love.
All I need is room to fight
Hand in fisted glove.
Point me to the sky,
It's my turn to fly.
Don't you wanna be
The life of the party?
Don't you wanna be
The top of the heap?
This is where the jamboree never ends
Why not be counting friends
Instead of counting sheep?
If you wanna join
The Heavenly Choir
Hurry up and get yourself in line.
But don't you pass the life of the party
Until you pass the wine.
Let the drinks pour
Let the crowds roar
Let the Heavens wildly cheer.
'Til the sunrise
Brings the goodbyes
I'll be here.
Never fear.
Who's it gonna be,
The life of the party?
Who's it gonna be,
The king of the hill?
Don't you wanna be there
Running the show
Until it's time to go
Or 'til it's time to kill?
Don't you ever wanna be
Somebody to envy
Don't you wanna be
Footloose and free?
Well, you could be the life of the party
If you
Were
More -
Like me!"