Have you ever wondered how a Broadway show’s music is actually built? How composers transform simple scenes into emotionally charged moments through song? Well, you’re about to find out! We’re diving deep into the score of “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)” with the show’s creators, Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, in an exclusive “Notes on a Score” breakdown. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details you probably missed!
Let’s consider the lyrics: ‘For one magical night (Magical night) / I’m buying those stars! / I’m buying that moon! / I’m buying these cars! / I’ve stolen this spoon! / I’m selling my soul, and buying / This whole impossible mess.’ What’s really going on here?
Buchan sheds light on the narrative context of this particular musical moment. “Act 1 contains a lot of delayed gratification,” he explains. “Two people are getting to know each other, cautiously circling each other, almost like a dance. And then, at the end of Act 1, they suddenly find themselves with access to resources that allow them to embark on a wildly extravagant night out in Manhattan.” Think of it as the dramatic turning point before intermission!
He continues, “They sort of convince themselves – and, crucially, they convince each other – that this lavish spending spree is a legitimate thing to do.” But here’s where it gets controversial… The ‘resources’ aren’t exactly earned. “The resources come in the form of a credit card, hence the title,” Buchan reveals, hinting at the potentially problematic foundation of their carefree evening. Is this financial irresponsibility a commentary on modern society, or simply a plot device? What do you think?
Barne then elaborates on the musical choices that underscore the characters’ differing perspectives. “I think the idea behind the music for the song is that Dougal’s vision of New York is very different from Robin’s, who actually lives in New York,” he states. “Dougal has this sort of idealized, almost fantastical idea of what a night out in New York might look like. It’s partly inspired by the films he’s seen – a romanticized, larger-than-life portrayal.” And this is the part most people miss… the music itself is a reflection of Dougal’s skewed perception.
“So with this song,” Barne concludes, “we wanted to try to juxtapose the initiation of the song, which is quite scandalous – using a credit card which isn’t theirs – with something quite traditional and cute.” The contrast between the potentially illegal act and the seemingly innocent, whimsical music creates a fascinating tension. Is the music masking the underlying moral issue, or highlighting the characters’ naiveté?
Ultimately, Barne and Buchan’s breakdown reveals the meticulous thought process behind crafting a Broadway score. They’ve not only given us catchy tunes, but have layered them with meaning and subtext that enriches the entire theatrical experience. Now, what are your thoughts on the use of potentially ‘scandalous’ actions to drive the plot? Does it add to the story, or detract from it? Let us know in the comments!