Songs to Get Us Through This
“Where better to escape trouble than a theater?” — Miss Medda, ‘Newsies’
In this incredibly rough time, we’re all looking for an escape. We’re looking for anything that will make us feel better. We’re looking for hope. There are so many stories out there that include a message of hope, and some of my favorites — and, in my opinion, the best ones — are on stage. Theatre has a way of connecting with its audience more than any other medium, making its message more accessible and tangible. There are certain songs that I always listen to when I need courage or comfort, and these are a few of them.
“Not While I’m Around” from Sweeney Todd
It’s no secret that the story of Sweeney Todd is dark. There’s an overabundance of throat-slashing and more unsavory characters than not. But even in the midst of that darkness, there’s still some light. Take Tobias, for example — he vows to protect Mrs. Lovett with his life. Regardless of how the story ends, this song is a heartwarming reminder of people who will look out for us, even in the toughest of times.
“No One Is Alone” from Into the Woods
Sondheim’s unique twist on classic fairy tales has remained a staple in the Broadway canon for decades, and the film adaptation birthed a whole new generation of fans of the show. However, even fans of these classic fairy tales won’t be able to predict all that happens in the second act. The bright spot after all the chaos is this heart-wrenchingly beautiful quartet that tells us that we’re not alone, no matter what.
“Into the Fire” from The Scarlet Pimpernel
I own four different editions of this classic novel, so imagine my delight when I found out that there was an older musical adaptation of this gripping story! Although the musical falls through in some places, this is definitely one of the best songs in the show. Sung by Sir Percy, this anthem is a call to bolster the confidence of his men as they sneak into France to rescue Aristocrats during the French Revolution of the late 1700’s. Let it empower you to push through these dreary days!
“This Is the Moment” from Jekyll and Hyde
Jekyll and Hyde, like many of these other stories, includes a lot of darkness, especially towards the end. However, Jekyll gives himself a truly inspiring pep talk right before making a decision that would alter his life forever. Sure, it ends up being a bad decision, but his confidence is empowering. (Disclaimer: Please don’t make potions in your basement while self-isolating.)
“Stronger” from Finding Neverland
I’m obsessed with anything related to Peter Pan, and this musical (and the film that inspired it) is no exception. The magic of the original tale completely comes across in this poignant story, reminding us that sometimes good can come out of horrible times. (Also, this musical deserved better, and that’s a hill I will die on.)
Please don’t ever forget to look towards better times. You’re not alone. We’re all in this beside one another and we’re all doing our best. Let’s all look forward to when we can all be together again!
Image: Andrew Keenan-Bolger, Sarah Lewis, and the cast in the Alliance Theatre’s 2014/15 world premiere production of Tuck Everlasting. Photo by Greg Mooney.
