There's No Business Like Show Business (1954)

[bunniefuu]

There's no business like show business

Like no business I know

Let's go on with the show

There's no business like show business

Like no business I know

Yesterday they told you
You would not go far

That night you open
And there you are

Next day on your dressing room
They've hung a star

Let's go on with the show!

You promised that you'll forget me not

But you forgot to remember

When that midnight choo-choo
Leaves for Alabam'

I'll be right there
I've got my fare

When I see
That rusty-haired conductor man

I'll grab him by the collar
And I'll holler, "Alabam'!"

That's where you stop your train
That brings me back again

Down home where I'll remain
Where my honey-Iamb am

I'll be right there with bells
When that old conductor yells

"All aboard, all aboard!

All aboard for Alabamy"

For Alabam'
For Alabamy

I’ll be right there with bells
When that old conductor yells

"All aboard for Alabam'!"

When that midnight choo-choo
Leaves for Alabam'

Stop!

In days of yore before the w*r
When hearts now old were young

At home each night by firelight
Those dear old songs were sung

Sweet melodies, their memories
Around my heart still cling

That's why I like to hear a song

Like Mother used to sing

Won't you play a simple melody?

Like my mother sang to me

One with good old-fashioned harmony

Play a simple melody

Musical demon set your honey a-dreamin'
Won't you play me some rag?

Just change that classical nag

To some sweet beautiful drag

Play copy from a tune that's choppy
And you'll get all my applause

And that is simply because

I want to listen to rag

Won't you play a simple melody

Like my mother sang to me

One with good old-fashioned harmony

Play a simple melody

That's what you want to hear

A good old ragtime simple melody

"Peter Rabbit was a bad rabbit,
so he was sent to bed without supper.

"But Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail
had ice cream and raspberry jam."

It's late.

-How late?
-They didn't say.

I know. You didn't have
to go there to learn that.

Don't yell at me, Molly. I don't run
the railroad. Wake me when it comes.

-Terry.
-Already?

No, no. This is a crummy way
to bring up kids.

Don't send the kids to your mother
because the train is late.

Steve ought to go to school,
and they should be sleeping in beds.

It's not right, keeping them
up all night like this.

I want them to have a real education.
Arithmetic, spelling, geography.

You never went past sixth grade.
It was probably really the fourth.

-Age is the only thing I lie about.
-Nothing's wrong with your arithmetic.

You can count the house and tell me
within 5 cents how much is there.

-That's not arithmetic.
-No, that's higher mathematics.

Welfare workers will crack down on us,
like in Pittsburgh.

-I handled it there, didn't I?
-Quiet, you'll wake up the children.

Father dear, will you see if
there's a dry diaper for the baby?

Is that what you mention in public?

Sometimes. Don't bother,
he hasn't worn them for years.

If three children could
be divided evenly...

CONDUCTOR: The Westerner on
Track 2. All aboard.

Come on, joy-boy, that's our train.
Darling, wake up.

Porter.

Get these three and the big one.
I’ll get the rest.

Honey, you take this one.
Take good care of it.

Steve, ask Dad if he changed
my berth to a lower.

-Katy, ask Pop if he made the change.
-How about the change, Daddy?

Yeah, I got change for the porter.

-He's got it.
-He got the lower, Mom.

Good. I hate sleeping in
an upper berth with three kids.

Come on, honey.

Here's Flopsy. Here's Mopsy.

And you've got Cottontail.

And you too, Peter Rabbit.

Wait till you see our finish.

MOLLY: Terry yelled. He still wanted
to keep them on the road with us.

But as they grew older, I won out.

We put them in a good Boston school.

TERRY: Poor kids. That meant we had
to figure out a new act.

MOLLY: You sure had a brilliant idea.

TERRY: I did. Eight beautiful blonds.
MOLLY: Nine.

-Nine?
-Yes, nine.

A pretty girl

Is like a melody

That haunts you night and day

Just like the strain

Of a haunting refrain

She'll start upon a marathon

And run around your brain

You can't escape

She's in your memory

By morning, night and noon

She will leave you and then

Come back again

A pretty girl is just
Like a pretty tune

A pretty girl

Is like a melody

That haunts you night and day

They go together like sunny weather
Goes with May

Just like the strain

Of a haunting refrain

She'll start upon a marathon

And run around your brain

You can't escape
No, no, no, no

She's in your memory

In your memory

By morning, night and noon

She will leave you and then

Come back again

A pretty girl is just
Like a pretty tune

MOLLY: Terence had so much fun
that I hated to spoil it.

But Saturday night, that was the end
of that. It was goodbye, blonds.

We should go back.
We'll get in trouble.

Katy's waiting for us.

You're not gonna go chicken now,
are you? Come on!

Going somewhere?

Suppose you come in here, boys.

-What is it?
-Trouble at school.

The children haven't caused trouble.

They're fine youngsters,
and we'd like to keep them.

I thought we should talk. I hope
I didn't interfere with your plans.

-We closed last night.
-And we'd be laying off for Lent.

I didn't know actors
gave up theater for Lent.

Actually, the theater
gives up actors for Lent.

-Does the box office fall off?
-Ours falls off, yours picks up.

To return to the children.
They want to be back with you.

-Did they tell you that?
-They tried to run away. Twice.

-Is the work too much? Are they dumb?
-Not at all.

Father Dineen, if there's a problem,
you don't have to horse around...

I beg your pardon.

Quite all right.
There's nothing wrong with them.

Steve is a fine student.
Quiet, serious, an unusual boy.

The sisters say
Katherine's above average.

And Timothy?

Timothy is all boy, shall we say.
A natural-born leader.

-Great kid, huh, Father?
-Sometimes he leads the others astray.

Nothing serious. What I'm saying is,

the children aren't happy
away from you.

Happy? They're supposed
to be learning things.

I think you should have a talk
with them and explain how you feel.

I find something precious in this
feeling for you and your profession.

Of course, it's up to you to decide.
Excuse me, I’ll get them.

Get that bit about Tim?
"Natural-born leader."

Look, birdbrain. He was saying we
got a little gangster on our hands.

-The kids are staying.
-Who says they're not?

-You're a pushover for those kids.
-You're the one who always gives in.

Not this time. I’m gonna be
as firm as the Rock of Gibraltar.

TERRY: The Rock of Gibraltar!

This was the first time
the kids saw the house in Jersey.

MOLLY: And what a time to face
a big, fat mortgage. Crash!

TERRY: Depression!
People gave up the theater first.

MOLLY: The first thing
the theater gave up was us.

TERRY: What we did to make a buck.
For a few seasons, we even split up.

She's not so good in the house
But in the park you'd be surprised

She isn't much in the light
But in the dark you'd be surprised

At a party or a ball
I got to admit she's nothing at all

But in the Morris chair
You'd be surprised

When I say coffee,
I don't mean just any coffee.

I mean Shelby's aerated, vacuumized,
flavor-in-the-bean coffee...

...which comes in three delicious
grinds. Instant, perk and a drip.

So let's have another cup of coffee

Let's have another cup
of Shelby's aerated coffee.

And let's have another piece of pie

TERRY: Then one day things picked up.

We were in the chips again,
playing big picture houses.

MOLLY: Till '37, when Tim surprised us
all and graduated from high school.

TERRY: We worked out a new act
for the family.

MOLLY: Katy's love was dancing.
And she was good.

TERRY: Steve was no hoofer,
but he could sell a song.

The name for the new act?
What else? The Five Donahues.

MOLLY: We soon hit the top. Headliners
in a big Hippodrome extravaganza.

Come on and hear, come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime Band

Come on and hear, come on and hear
It's the best band in the land

They can play a bugle like never before
So natural you want to go to w*r

That's just the bestest band what am
Honey-lamb

Come on along, come on along
Let me take you by the hand

Up to the man, up to the man
Who's the leader of the band

And if you care to hear
The Swanee River played in ragtime

Come on and hear, come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime

That raggy beat is in your feet
Come on and meet

Alexander's Ragtime Band

[APPLAUSE]

[SINGING IN GERMAN]

Come on and hear
Come on and hear

Alexander's Ragtime Band

Come on and hear
Come on and hear

It's the best band in the land

And if you care to hear
The Swanee River

Played in the ragtime

Come on and hear, come on and hear

The bonny music of
Alexander's Ragtime Band

Alexander's Ragtime Band

[SINGING IN FRENCH]

Come on along

Let me take you

By the hand

Up to the man

Who's the leader of the band

Come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime Band

Come on and hear, come on and hear
It's the best band in the land

They can play a bugle like never before
So natural you want to go to w*r

That's just the bestest band what am
Honey-Iamb, come on

Come on along
Let me take you by the hand

Up to the maestro, up to that man
The leader of the band

I want to hear that
"Swanee," "Swanee River"

Play it, play it
Play that ragtime

Hear, hear
Hear, hear

Alexander's band is here

It must be the man
It must be Alexander

He's the man, maker of the band
Hear, hear

Come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime Band

Come on, come on, come on
It's the best band in the land

They can play a bugle call

That's just the bestest band what am
Honey-lamb

Come on along, come on along
Let me take you by the hand

Up to the man
The leader of the band

And if you want
That "Swanee River" played in ragtime

Come on along, come on along
Come on along, come on along

To see and hear
That Alexander's Ragtime Band

[APPLAUSE]

It went great.

You know who was out front? Flo.
Flo Zimmerman, my cousin.

Cousin Flo mit the strudel
and lager beer. Skol!

-Right in the eye.
-Hi, Timmy.

Hi, kid. I’ll be right with you.
Excuse me, important business.

-You're excused.
-Goodbye.

Have you ever talked
with Tim about girls?

Yes, he wouldn't give me any numbers.
It’s like teaching Dempsey to fight.

-I wish they'd chase people their age.
-Me too.

-Hope the kids are ready. I’m starved.
-Me too.

[KNOCKING]

Come in.

Be with you in a minute.

-Mind if I go ahead?
-Got a date?

No, I just feel like walking.
I got some thinking to do.

If that's your idea of fun.

-See you later.
-So long.

-What?
-You feel something's bothering Steve?

He seems so far away these days.
He's not always with you.

-Like a poet or something.
-Maybe he'll write lyrics.

No, it's not that, it's...
No, it's not that either, it's...

-I don't know, but it's something.
-Yeah.

I’m glad we got that cleared up.
Ready?

Katy, we're ready.

Katy, you in there?

Where is she?
She's usually the first one.

Tim? Timothy?

-Excuse us.
-Be right back.

Yeah, well, don't hurry.

Another gin and tonic,
bourbon, scotch and soda...

And another ginger ale.

Ginger ale? Why don't you break down
and have a real drink? Relax.

I’m completely relaxed.

The other place was a creep joint.

-And the one before it was a morgue.
-I’ll check my hat.

Okay, baby.

Miss? Miss?

Welcome to Gallagher's
Golden Pheasant Room.

Check your hat, sir?

Try it again, more from the chest.

You think so? My vocal teacher
says it's all diaphragm.

All diaphragm?
I'd say there's quite a lot else.

What's a girl with such tones
doing checking hats?

I’m temporarily between engagements.

Six months temporarily. I have
to eat and pay for singing lessons.

-You're a singer? I thought actress.
-You think it's impossible.

I can see it now. You as Lady Macbeth.
What a sleepwalking scene!

-I wonder if some evening you'd...
-I don't give private auditions.

How now, brown cow?

Good evening, sir...
Eddie, is he coming over?

The great Lew Harris is coming
to hear you. He's on his way.

-Will you take over for me?
-Sure. Why?

Lew Harris is coming.

-The producer? Good luck.
-I’m gonna sing with the band.

-Sure this is the right dress?
-He said you picked it out.

It cost an arm and a leg just to rent.
I hope you know what you're doing.

Don't worry. I've known what
I was doing since I was 6.

Does Gallagher know you're
going on or is it a secret?

He knows.
He knows I've worked in clubs.

How can you sing with a strange band?

I’m not. I've rehearsed with them
all day, and they're very friendly.

The head waiter has a good table
for you and Mr. Harris.

-The drinks are free.
-He's in on it too?

Of course. He's even making
the waiters stop serving while I sing.

This is the first time
a client has ever managed me.

When you bring him back,
I want to show him I can act.

I've been working on a scene
from The Cherry Orchard.

Vicky, let's save the acting as
a surprise for later. Much later.

Mr. Harris wants a singer,
a hot singer. What are you singing?

After You Get What You Want,
You Don't Want It.

Vicky, will you forget
that elocution stuff?

It's After you get what you want.
After, after, after.

You run down and wait for Mr. Harris.
I’ll change.

After. After.

-The girls say you can't be trusted.
-What else do they say?

Excuse me.
May I please get by here?

If it isn't Ethel Barrymore.
Lionel and I...

Please, let's not play any more games.
I’m in an awful hurry.

-I must be losing my grip.
-You're getting old. Almost 20.

What difference does it make
how old a man is?

One man in 20 years
may still be a baby.

Another may have seen everything,
done everything.

It’s not how old you are,
it's how you've lived.

The wine you have drunk, the music
you've heard, the women you've known.

-The stories I could tell you, kid.
-So tell me.

I’ll take the bottle, and bring
a double gin for Snow White.

You're real cute. Well, bottoms up.

-You're pretty cute yourself.
-That's more like it.

You were great in the show tonight.
You were swell.

Thank you.
But you didn't see all of it.

We have a lot of comedy stuff.
Real slapstick.

-I like slapstick.
-We have one bit that never fails.

I’ll show you.
Put your hands out flat.

I take these two glasses
and put them like so.

-And?
-That's all.

Bye.

Hey!

-Mr. Harris. We have a reservation.
-Yes, sir. This way, please.

Ladies and gentlemen, Gallagher's
has a surprise for you tonight.

A new, young talent,
Miss Victoria Hoffman.

Come on, let's give
the little girl a big welcome.

After you get what you want
You don't want it

If I gave you the moon

You'd grow tired of it soon

You're like a baby

You want what you want
When you want it

But after you are presented

With what you want
You're discontented

You're always wishing and wanting
For something

When you get what you want

You don't want what you get

And though I sit upon your knee

You'll grow tired of me

'Cause after you get what you want

You don't want
What you wanted at all

Changeable
You've got a changeable nature

Always, always changing your mind

There's a longing in your eye
Hard to satisfy

And here's the reason why

'Cause after you get what you want

You don't want it

If I gave you the moon

You'd grow tired of it soon

You're like a baby

You want what you want
When you want it

But after you are presented

With what you want
You're discontented

You're always wishing and wanting
For something

When you get what you want

You don't want what you get

And though I sit upon your knee

You'll grow tired of me 'cause

After you get what you want

You don't want what you wanted at all

Baby, I don't mean to make you blue

But you need a talking-to

'Cause after you get what you want

You don't want what you wanted at all

I know you.

-What do you think?
-I’m interested.

I knew it! I knew you'd
flip your lid over this girl.

How do you do, Mr. Harris?

Hello, Mr. Harris.

Hi there, Mr. Harris.

[KNOCKING]

I’m waiting for someone
terribly important.

This is important too. I’m from
Variety How about an interview?

-This isn't a joke?
-Not when I’m working.

-But I’m expecting these people.
-Let's start and see how far we get.

-Have you had any previous experience?
-Doing what?

I meant your career,
but I'd be interested in anything.

-I see. I’ll give you my number.
-Why don't you?

I have a better idea. I’ll call you tomorrow
at Variety to make a date.

-Tomorrow is my day off.
-I was afraid of that.

[KNOCKING]

Excuse me, that must be my guest.

-This is Lew Harris.
-Charmed, I’m sure.

I enjoyed your performance.

Did you? Come in.
This gentleman was just leaving.

Tim Donahue, how are you?

I hear you're knocking them dead
at the Hippodrome.

Of The Five Donahues? Great act.
I didn't know you knew him.

We just met. It was sweet of you to
tell me how much you admired my work.

When one performer troubles
to tell another, that's praise indeed.

Tell your family I appreciate it,
but I can't join your act.

I will.
They'll be brokenhearted.

I’m sorry, but there are
five of you already.

I prefer working as a single,
if you know what I mean.

And I think you do.

She's mad about me.

I've been looking
everywhere for you.

I fumbled, and the coach took me out.
Cute step.

Let's go where they appreciate me.

This is silly!
They're not children anymore.

-I got a good hand.
-They can take care of themselves.

Exactly. You go.

Why didn't they tell us?
Sneaking out...

That's just part of growing up.

-Remember our first date?
-Yeah.

-We didn't tell anybody either.
-No.

Remember how late we stayed out?

You should've been ashamed of
yourself! Where the heck is Katy?

-Take it easy. You've got me worried.
-It’s about time, you big lug.

Here's a taxi.

What do you mean by coming home
at this hour?

How sweet of you to wait up, Pop.
Do pay the cab fare. I’m flat.

-Where'd you get her?
-Gallagher's.

-How much?
-$6.20.

$6.20? How did you come?

-I got her home, didn't I?
-You got change for $20?

For all I know,
he's still sitting there, dripping!

I used to use a handbag
full of nickels.

Anybody got fresh, clunk!
We called it the Woman's Defender.

What's funny? She stays out all night,
and you think it's a joke.

Some parts of Katy's education
I’ll match against anybody's.

-Tim get home yet?
-Why? You know where he is?

No, I just wondered.

-Where in blazes have you been?
-Church.

-I've heard it all.
-Seriously.

-At this hour?
-I went for a walk in the park first.

-Who with?
-Nobody, just myself.

Mom and Dad, there's something
I want to tell you.

-I've given this a lot of thought...
-Go on.

-I’m going to be a priest.
-A what?

-A priest.
-You're kidding.

What are you talking about?

I know this comes as a big shock.
I want it more than anything else.

-A priest? You must be...
-Let him finish.

I talked to Father Dineen. I’m to
report to the seminary next week.

I won't let you do it.
Stay out of this.

You're young. You don't know
what a wonderful thing life can be.

To fall in love and raise a family.
I won't let you give all that up.

I've thought about it.

Some people are meant
to be one thing, some another.

What about your work?
What about the theater?

It’s just a change of booking.
The church has had a pretty long run.

I hope I have the talent for it.

Beats me. I can't figure it out.

Come on along, come on along
Alexander's Ragtime rand

-Hello, everybody.
-He's crocked!

I beg your pardon, Mother. Stinking.
I forgot to remove my hat.

I’ll fix him.
I've been handling him all his life.

Is there some dispute going on?
Could I be of any...

Could I...
Mom, I don't feel so well.

Oh, no, you don't. Upstairs for you.
I just had this carpet cleaned.

What a family! One sneaks off to
a nightclub, one comes home drunk...

...and you, I might have
expected you to be drunk.

But I’ll be a Hindu swami
if I expected this.

Don't take it so big.

Steve might turn out to be something
big, like a bishop or cardinal.

The only cardinal I want in our family
is one who plays for St. Louis.

Big man now, coming home like...

-You're drowning me!
-Don't put any ideas in my head.

Down, boy, down.
And don't come up till I tell you.

Here. Give me that.

-Please, Mom!
-It hurts you more than it hurts me.

Now get in there.

-I’m getting there.
-Come on, get in, hurry up.

This way.
Put your head on the pillow. Come on.

Let's have it.
Who were you out with?

-Lillie Sawyer.
-That tomato?

I think I asked her to marry me.
I know I proposed something.

I bet you did.
What did you have to drink?

I don't remember, but we topped it off
with champagne and root beer.

-I was trying to forget...
-What?

I don't remember.
Another girl, I think.

Little man, you've had a busy night.

-Everything's going round and round.
-I know.

Go to sleep.
We'll talk this over in the morning.

I’m sorry.

I know you are.
I’m sorry too, if I hurt you.

But we'll make a man out of you
even if we have to m*rder you first.

-Thanks, Mom.
-Go to sleep.

-Good night, Mom.
-Good night.

-Is he all right?
-He's fine now.

But what he'll feel like tomorrow.
Anyway, I hope so.

Steve, I want to talk to you.

Sure, Mom.

Are you disappointed in me too,
like Dad is?

You can't blame him, the way you
told him, cold, without any buildup.

He wasn't looking for it.
He had different plans for you.

-There's Katy and Tim.
-But you're the firstborn.

There's always something
about the first.

Life's funny.
You raise a kid backstage,

you teach him
how to sing and dance,

and how to make people laugh.

And then one day this.

Why? How come?

I don't know. It’s inside me.
It must have always been there.

It’s like losing you, Steve.
Not really, but...

-Then you are disappointed?
-No, it's a wonderful thing.

I’m just not used to it yet.
But I’m proud.

Very proud.

Remember you vowed
By all the stars

Above you, remember?

Remember, we found
A lonely spot

And after I learned
To care a lot

You promised that you'd
Forget me not

But you forgot
To remember

Come on, have another sandwich.

Come on, let's go inside.

Showtime! Quiet!

Showtime!

All get settled down someplace.

Since you were nice enough to surprise
me, I have a surprise for you.

We have some talented
young people here.

Songs, dances, impressions
and they'd like to perform for you.

This act hasn't been seen in 20 years.

If I’m any judge of talent,
it'll never be seen again.

The Two Donahues!

When that midnight choo-choo
Leaves for Alabam'

I’ll be right there
I've got my fare

When I see
That rusty-haired conductor man

I’ll grab him by the collar
And I’ll holler "Alabam'!"

That's where you stop your train
That brings me back again

Down home where I’ll remain
Where my honey-lamb am

I will be right there with bells
When that old conductor yells

"All aboard, all aboard!

All aboard for Alabamy"

For Alabam'
For Alabamy

I’ll be right there with bells
When that old conductor yells

"All aboard for Alabam'!"

When that midnight choo-choo
Leaves for Alabam'

We thank you.
Would you like to say a few words?

-Yes...
-Thank you, that's enough.

Now, the pièce de resistance.

We were supposed to add a song to
our act, but the singer got a new job.

It’s not as much money as we paid,
but it's what he wants.

Would you like to hear it?

Ladies and gentlemen,
your guest of honor, Steven Donahue.

Thank you.

Couple of years ago in Memphis,
I heard a song that impressed me.

Snap your fingers, clap your hands

and come along with me,
we'll have some fun.

Brothers and sisters

Listen, you nonbelievers, listen

You better start to believe

All you doubters
Be hallelujah shouters

Or else you're going to grieve

There's no time to wait

You may be too late

So listen
You don't know what you're missin'

Until you start to believe

If you believe

That there's a heaven

You'll get to heaven

If you believe

If you believe that there are angels

You'll see the angels

If you believe

I'm not making promises

To the doubting Thomases

But if you believe
The Lord can help you

The Lord will help you

If you believe

-Do you believe?
-We do, we do

Jonah went out one night in a gale
Do you believe that?

Soon he was swallowed up by a whale
Do you believe that?

Daniel lay with lions that roared
Noah was on his ark when it poured

Moses looked up and spoke to the Lord
Do you believe that?

We do

Now I'm not making promises

To the doubting Thomases

But if you believe
The Lord can help you

The Lord will help you

If you believe

Thank you. Don't take this
as my farewell performance.

I’ll be rehearsing for four years.

When the new act's ready,
new material, new costumes,

I hope you'll all find
the time to see me. Will you?

Somebody put a slice
of raw onion in the sandwich.

You better give me a bite.
I need an excuse too.

TERRY: Florida. We now take you
to beautiful Florida.

Land of golden sunshine,
balmy breezes, swaying palm trees.

Playground of the millionaires.

MOLLY: Things were going swimmingly,
one winter we even vacationed there.

TERRY: Some vacation. Two shows
a night. Three on Saturdays.

A tropical heat wave

Those are the new
Heat Wave costumes?

You like? You better,
they cost a week's salary.

A week's salary?
We can always eat the act.

Hands off,
those grapes cost a dollar each.

Muchachas, we're in
the wrong business.

Take the arrangements
to the band and go over it.

And if you see Katy,
send her in here.

CONDUCTOR: Hold it.

Try the vocal first. When the boys
get here, we'll take it from the top.

-Okay, honey, let's try it. Hi, Tim.
-Hi.

Vicky, do you know Tim Donahue?
Miss Vicky Parker.

-Hello, Mr. Donahue.
-Victoria Hoffman, Gallagher's.

He said Parker.
Don't tell me you're married.

Don't tell me
this is another interview?

-Are you?
-Mack.

Did you know Mr. Donahue
in his spare time is a reporter?

-Are you?
-No, Mr. Donahue.

My new manager is doing me over.

New name, new clothes, new...
I guess everything else is the same.

My ear tells me you're not
using as much diaphragm.

My vocal teacher is gone with
the wind. Please don't remind me.

I thought this was just gonna be
another nightclub engagement.

I couldn't have said it better.

-May we get on with the rehearsal?
-I’ll just sit here and watch.

-It won't bother me.
-It'll bother me, but I like it.

Okay, Mack.

We're having a heat wave

A tropical heat wave

The temperature's rising
It isn't surprising

Hold it! Wait a second!
Hold it, fellas.

-This is terrible.
-Terrible?

No, it's just,
you can't use that song.

We're using it. We have new costumes
and arrangements. It’s big.

-You're joking.
-I wish I was.

But "Heat Wave" is my big number too.
What are we going to do?

My whole act's built around it.
I have boys working with me...

But you're the headliners,
so I guess it's out.

I’ll go back to New York.

You can't. What about everything
we're gonna do together?

But, Tim, what else can I do?
It puts me in a terrible spot.

I’ll tell you what, forget
the whole thing. It’s your number.

We'll work it out.
I’ll talk to them. See you.

-I hope so. And thank you, Tim.
-Yeah, I’ll see you later.

-That was close. I was worried.
-I never had a doubt.

Gentlemen, the winner
and new champion!

We're having a heat wave
A tropical heat wave

The temperature's rising
Not surprising, she certainly can

Cancan

She started the heat wave
By letting her seat wave

In such a way that the customers say
That she certainly can cancan

Gee, gee, her anatomy

Makes the mercury jump

To 93

We're having a heat wave
A tropical heat wave

The way she moves
The thermometer proves she can

-What's your name, honey?
-Pablo

-Chico
-Miguelito

Pablo, Chico, Miguelito

Cancan

Pablo, it say here
Under "Weather Report"

It say:

A front of warm air
Is moving in from Jamaica

Moderately high barometric pressure
Will cover the Northeast and...

-Where else?
-The Deep South

Small danger of fruit frost

Hot and humid nights can be expected

St. Vincent, 95
Guadeloupe, 97

San Domingo, 99
Martinique, 105

We're having a heat wave

A tropical heat wave

The temperature's rising
It isn't surprising

You certainly can, can

I started this heat wave by

And in such a way that
The customers say that

-I certainly can
-Cancan

It’s easy to see why he did it.

Makes the mercury

Rise to 93

We're having a heat wave

A tropical, tropical heat wave

The way that I move
That thermometer proves

She certainly, certainly
Certainly can

I certainly, certainly, certainly can

Cancan

Then what happened?

After Lew Harris bought my contract,
he put me on the road.

He said I had to learn, and I talked
like I had marshmallows in my mouth.

-I liked it. It was different.
-Yes. Like green hair.

Yeah, it's lovely.

I didn't think anything like this
could happen to me.

Anyway, I guess Lew thinks
I’m ready now.

He's building a new revue
around me next season on Broadway.

I'd like to build
a barbed-wire fence around you.

-Where should we honeymoon?
-What?

We should stay here.
We wouldn't waste time traveling.

And they say
the rainy season's coming on.

-I have to go. It’s getting late.
-Let's get a sandwich. I’m hungry.

We just had spaghetti.
You bought me bread sticks.

When we're married, we won't eat out.
We'll bake our own bread sticks.

-Grow our own wheat?
-A big family has to cut corners.

-Just how large a family?
-A quartet.

Baritone, tenor, soprano, alto.
Like the script so far?

You left out an important part.
The menace.

Don't need one.
We'll keep it light and airy.

What if your heroine's a career woman?
Gonna fight her to the top.

I’ll clear the path for her.
I’m trustworthy, loyal, helpful,

friendly, courteous, obedient,
thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.

We can start a fire
without rubbing two sticks.

-What do you say, Vicky?
-Don't call us, we'll call you.

-Good night, Tim.
-Really? Is that all?

Good night.

I forgot to return your bread stick.
I’m sorry.

-I’ll forgive you. Good night.
-Is that still all?

I had a wonderful evening. I like you.
I hope you ask me out again.

If you want to kiss me good night...

Good night.

A man chases a girl

Until she catches him

He runs after a girl
Until he's caught

He fishes for a girl
Until she's landed him

It all comes out
Exactly the way she thought

Uncertain
He tags along behind

Uncertain
Till she makes up his mind

A man chases a girl
Until she catches him

But don't run too fast
While you are saying no

And once you've caught him
Don't ever let him go

A man chases a girl

VICKY: Until she catches him

He runs after a girl

Until he's caught

He fishes for a girl

Until she's landed him

It all comes out

Exactly the way she thought

"Latin and I are finally
on speaking terms.

"I am not as worried about exams
as I was a month ago.

"But I’m grateful for all the help
I can get. Light a candle.

"Light four candles. I miss you all
very much. Love, Steve.

"Pax vobiscum. That's Latin
for 'Peace be with you.'"

Let's see. It wouldn't surprise me
if he's top of his class.

Good morning, Pop.
Morning, Mom.

Try again. I’m your father.
She's your mother.

Let him alone. He hasn't got anything
straight for weeks. Why start now?

-What's up?
-Let him eat. He needs his strength.

[PHONE RINGS]

I’ll get it.

Hello?

Yes, he's here.

That girl who steals everybody's
material wants to talk to you.

-She'll hear you.
-Maybe she'll give my song back.

Hello, Vicky.
How are you this morning?

Yeah, it's me. No, really.

No, there's nothing wrong.
It’s just...

Capacity. Standing room only.

No, I haven't had a chance
to tell them yet... Excuse me.

Wait just a minute, Vicky.
Excuse me, Mom.

Excuse me.

-I think they're married.
-Who?

Tim and that girl. You heard him.
What else?

-No, no, no.
-Of course that's it. What'll we do?

-They're not married.
-Then they're planning it. Stop them.

-Me?
-You run this act.

-When things go wrong, I run it.
-Don't yell at me.

Who do you think you are,
Whispering Jack Smith? Come in.

It’s Love's Young Dream.
He locked himself in.

-There's no knob inside.
-I’ll complain to the management.

Tell them and get it
over with, will you?

Mom, Pop, Katy and me, we...
Me and Katy...

Lew Harris is starring Vicky Parker
in a Broadway revue next season.

I've got the title.
Something Borrowed, Something Blue.

Come on, Mom.

Vicky wants Tim and me in it,
so she had Mr. Harris catch our act.

He liked us. So he wants to sign us.

And the question is,
should we or shouldn't we do it?

First she takes our song, and now...

This kid and I have just gotta
wind up the best of chums.

I think it's great.
It’s just wonderful.

-It’s just Katy and me.
-We didn't commit...

Are you worried about us? We were
an act before you were an idea.

You weren't even penciled in.
This is what we raised you for.

-What do you say, Mom?
-Okay.

On one condition. They have to take
the four Cuban costumes too!

I love you.

MAN: Orchids to Molly and Terry.
Back to two slices, but still a smash.

Their kids open in Lew Harris'
Manhattan Parade next month.

If they're like Mom and Pop,
look for hat-tossing by critics.

Okay, kids, here we go.

Quiet, everybody! Settle down.

We'll take it from the top.
Now watch those phone cues. Ready?

One, two.

[PHONE RINGING]

-Hello?
-Here we go.

-Sorry, not tonight.
-That was quick.

-Yes?
-Jim, Jack, Jeffrey?

-No, it's just that I’m languid.
-It’s nice to know you.

-Physically I’m in good shape.
-You can say that again.

It’s my attitude that's passive.

-You're the only one I love.
-That's all. He's hooked.

-Bye now.
-Bye now.

[PHONE RINGS]

-Hello?
-We're off again.

-Not tonight.
-She's languid.

-Quiet.
-Bill, Bobby, Bruce?

It’s that I’m supine.

-That's a word?
-Who knows?

-Physically I’m in good shape.
-She said it again.

-But mentally I’m comatose.
-Quick, the dictionary.

-You're the only one I love.
-New fish, same hook.

-Bye now.
-Bye now.

She won't get up, she won't go out
Baby, what's it all about?

Why, why, why, why, why?

Well, in simple English
I'm lazy

I want to be lazy

I long to be out in the sun

With no work to be done

Under that awning

They call the sky

Stretching and yawning

And let the world go drifting by

I want to peep

Through the deep, tangled wildwood

Counting sheep till I sleep

Like a child would

With a great big valise full

Of books to read

Where it's peaceful

While I'm killin' time

Being lazy

[PHONE RINGS]

Wrong number

[PHONE RINGS]

Wrong number

[PHONE RINGS]

Oh, Sam, you're sweet!

-I did that lyric over. Wanna see?
-Thanks, Charlie.

They're just what Vicky needed.
They make her look great.

They sure do.

You know something, Lew?
I think I’m gonna marry that girl.

-You what?
-Don't get nervous. I mean Donahue.

With a great big valise full

Of books to read

Where it's peaceful

While I'm k*lling time

Being

lazy

Fine, kids! Keep it that way.
Let's go to lunch.

Lunch, everybody.
Back at 2:00 sharp.

I’m starved.
I’ll be with you in two minutes.

Tim, toward the finish, when I slide
over the couch, am I too close to you?

Can a bee be too close to honey?
Let's eat.

We'll eat upstairs.
That'll be less tiring.

-We can't take chances with our star.
-Can I have a rain check?

That dance looked great.
Nice work, boy.

-"Boy," you can take me to lunch.
-Come on.

-I fixed it. We have Friday off.
-Yeah?

-Where are we going?
-Church. Steve is being ordained.

How could you forget that?
Don't you think of anything but Vicky?

-No.
-Miss Donahue?

-Hello.
-Excuse me.

-Are you free for lunch?
-Don't worry about me, Sis.

-I’m insincere, but would you join us?
-Thanks. I’ll send for a sandwich.

-Be sure and eat now.
-You seemed to enjoy that number.

[CHOIR SINGING IN LATIN]

Up at the altar, I was real scared.

-The ordaining was beautiful, Steve.
-Any idea where your parish will be?

-I haven't been assigned yet.
-Don't let them put you in the sticks.

Charlie, I’m sorry.
You haven't met Charlie Gibbs.

-Charlie, Father Steven Donahue.
-Congratulations, Father.

This is family,
and I hate to butt in

but will you have time
soon to perform a wedding?

-A wedding ceremony?
-That's right.

-Who are you going to marry?
-You.

-When did this happen?
-First I've heard of it.

It’s the first I've heard of it too.

It’s my turn to congratulate you.
I'd be happy to perform the ceremony.

Whenever you're ready, just call.
Have black suit, will travel.

I’ll congratulate him too.
I’m giving the bride away.

-VICKY: Tim?
-Yeah, ready?

Dinner's planned. Pheasant
under glass, broccoli Hollandaise...

Not me. I’m a girl with simple taste.
Steak, French fries and a salad.

Then steak it'll be. Hitch on.

-Nelly, what's that? It’s not for me?
-It’s your first dress.

-I thought it was out.
-Mr. Harris put it through.

-He wants to see it now.
-Then I have to see him now. Thanks.

-Steak, French fries, remember?
-You go ahead.

I thought I'd convinced Lew
about the dress. I have to try again.

-I won't be long. I’ll join you.
-I’ll give you 20 minutes.

-I’ll be there as soon as I can.
-All right, but don't be long.

-Good night, Kelly.
-Good night.

-I still see nothing wrong with it.
-My entrance must make an impression.

This dress won't do.
This purple is wrong for me.

The color is heliotrope.

Heliotrope, hydrangea, petunia!
It’s still the wrong shade of purple.

Simmer down. For two hours I haven't
been a producer, I've been a referee.

-Do you want me to look right?
-Everyone else thinks it's wonderful.

She doesn't like that it's classic.
In color and line it's different.

Different from anything I’ll wear.

Let's be practical. The dress cost
$1400, and that's not heliotrope.

[PHONE RINGS]

Yes? Just a minute.

-Did you have a date with Donahue?
-Poor Tim! What time is it? Oh, no.

Hello, Tim. I’m terribly sorry.
It’s taking longer than I thought.

Yes, I know, but...
Start your dinner. I won't be long.

I will. Bye.

-Fourth round coming up.
-This argument's ridiculous.

Are we alive or are we dead?

Just as I thought. Dead.

As long as we're not on the air,
I can speak freely.

The time is now...

...12:31 a.m.
It’s tomorrow morning.

First, the news.

It’s all bad, so we'll skip it.

Instead, we'll bring you
the musical portion of our program.

This number is dedicated to a girl
who's about to become a big star.

She knows exactly where she's going.

And who she's going there with.

With whom she's going there with.

I dedicate this to her, and to me,
because I ain't going there with her.

Well, hello, Miss Parker!

I didn't know Geoffrey would be there
and that we'd get into a hassle.

Geoffrey was there too?

Geoffrey, Geoffrey, here Geoffrey.

I don't see him. Do you?

However, that doesn't mean
he wasn't there

because I can't see anything.
Not even things in front of my nose.

-What things?
-You want me to spell it out for you?

No. Maybe it's crazy to explain
anything to you, the way you are now.

But try to understand.
To you this is just another show.

You were born to this business.

You never had to pound down doors
to get people to listen to you.

Your family did it all.

It’s different for me. I've been alone
since I was 15. This is my big chance.

It’s make or break.

Don't worry, you'll make it.

You've got what it takes
and you know how to use it.

I don't have to take that from you.

Why should I? I don't owe you a thing.

No, you don't. You only owe
Lew Harris. You owe him everything.

And you're not a girl
who welches on her debts.

Get out. Get out of here!

-Did you send the flowers?
-For the 40th time, yes, I sent them.

-They'll arrive by 7:30.
-What about the reservation at 21?

I made it. Relax.
You'd think it was our opening.

-I wish it was. Those poor kids!
-Just another show. They'll be great.

[PHONE RINGS]

Hello. Hello?

Katy? What's the matter, honey?
You sound like you're crying.

What? No. Where?

-Is he hurt bad?
-Who's hurt?

Was there anybody with him? I see.

-Is it Tim?
-Yes, but he's not hurt bad.

I’m gonna go right out there.
What hospital did you say? I got that.

Stop crying and get hold of yourself.

I’ll send Mother right to the theater.
Yes, I’m leaving this minute. Bye.

What happened?

He was with a girl and the car rolled.
He'd been drinking in White Plains.

Are you sure he's not badly hurt?
What about the show? Why would he...

Now look, get a cab and go down
to the theater. Katy needs you.

-You'll call as soon as you see him?
-Yes, don't worry.

Taxi, taxi...

-We'll just have to cut it.
-But it's Katy's best spot.

-The understudy can't do it.
-Wouldn't mean a thing.

He can do others, but not that one.

Maybe the best thing
to do would be to postpone.

-Why don't I do it with her?
-You?

-I've rehearsed it with her.
-That's crazy.

It'll work. I’ll fake the dancing,
but I've done that for years.

-You think you could sell it cold?
-No, I’m just talking. Of course!

-Why not, Lew?
-Okay, Molly, you're on. You're hired!

Get wardrobe up here.

Take them down,
I’ll send the orchestra leader.

-Me and my big mouth!
-All right, we've got a show to do!

-I'm an old salt
-I'm a young salt

In the Navy
We've been working very hard

I was part of that flotilla
With Dewey in Manila

I'm a new recruit
At the Brooklyn Navy Yard

Tonight we're on a spree
And feeling flowery

We've got a date
With gals and drinks and food

Across the Brooklyn Bridge
And to the Bowery

And I'm gonna get the kid tattooed

-Tattooed?
-Tattooed

A sailor's not a sailor
Till a sailor's been

Tattooed

Here's an anchor from a tanker

That I sailed upon
When first I went to sea

Here's another of my mother

Takes me back
To when I sat upon her knee

Here's a crimson heart
With a cupid's dart

Here's a battle cruiser
And when I sit down

On that too
There's a tattoo

Of my hometown

-To the Bowery
-To the Bowery

Across the Brooklyn Bridge
And I'm just in the mood

He'll be filled with mixtures
And covered up with pictures

I can't wait to be
'Twill be great to be tattooed

-Tattooed
-Tattooed

A sailor's not a sailor
Till a sailor's been

Tattooed

-Tattooed
-Tattooed

A sailor's not a sailor

Till a sailor's been tattooed

Oh, a sailor's not a sailor
Till a sailor's been tattooed

Tattooed
Tattooed

A sailor's not a sailor
Till he's been tattooed

Tattooed
Tattooed

A sailor's not a sailor
Till a sailor's been...

...tattooed

Hi, Pop.

How's the girl?

All right. She has a few stitches,
but they won't show.

-And you?
-I’m fine.

They took a couple x-rays.
They want me to stay for observation.

Let's have it, what happened?

-Didn't they tell you?
-I wanna hear it from you.

Okay. I was drunk. I was loaded.

Girl took the wheel,
and I passed out.

Then we're in a ditch,
car rolled over a few times

and that's the whole story.

If you think that's it,
you have less sense...

I thought you were a kid
who got out of line.

You're not a kid,
you know the score.

-You know what you pulled?
-You mean, "The show must go on"?

They'll get the show on without you.
You're not that important.

You didn't hurt anybody
but yourself.

I had the chance of a lifetime
and I blew it. So?

What's got into you? Who do you think
you are? You're nothing.

You made yourself nothing, punk!
I don't care if I ever see you again.

It’s a big corn crop this year, but...

-What?
-Corn. H-A-M, corn.

-Did you put in a clean shirt?
-Yeah.

Remember, you promised
not to be too tough.

-He's no good. If you heard him...
-It’s not all his fault.

I found out a lot.
The Parker girl gave him a bad time.

-I knew she was no good for him.
-Blame her. Everyone else blames him.

-Will you say you're in the show?
-Only for a few days.

It’s down here.

-Can I help you?
-My son is... What's wrong?

He's not here. He picked
himself up last night and walked out.

He left this note for you.

"I’m sorry I gave you
such a bad time.

"I think Pop was right.
You'll all be better off without me.

"See you around sometime.

"Don't worry. Love, Tim."

MOLLY: "Don't worry." That's a laugh.

You start worrying when they're born,
and you never stop.

Even after they bury you,
I bet you never stop.

TERRY: We did everything we could
to find him. Went to the police.

MOLLY: Checked booking offices,
in case he tried to work.

TERRY: Even hired detectives of our own.

MOLLY: We even heard he was working
under a fake name

with a trio down
in Greenwich Village.

Oh, Marie

-The dawn is breaking
-Take a peek at that sun

-Sweet Marie
-Better open your eyes

-You'll soon be waking
-Now's the time to arise

-Oh, Marie
-My broken heart

My heart is aching

For you
For you

My sweet Ma-Ma-Marie

MOLLY: Everyplace you went,
you saw more and more uniforms.

Half the world was fighting already,
the other half rehearsing for it.

Even Steve had applied
to go over as a chaplain.

Better wait under here, Miss Parker.
I’ll only be a minute.

Thanks, Kelly.

-Kelly found a cab. May I drop you?
-No, thanks.

We'd have a chance to...

It’s okay. There are plenty of cabs.
I’ll find one.

-All ready?
-I changed my mind. I’m not going.

Come on. You can drop me off,
then go to the club for a few laughs.

I’ll get you for a midnight movie.

I’m just not up to it.

Okay. See you later.

I found some arrangements we did
with the kids. Let's go over them.

-What for?
-The Actors' Fund's having a benefit.

The Hippodrome's closing.
They want old acts to perform.

-I’m old, they can tear me down too.
-They want us in the show.

-I haven't done an act since...
-Stop talking this way. It won't help.

You gonna spend the rest
of your life blaming yourself?

I miss him too, every day,
every minute.

At least I keep going. How do you
think I feel, working with that girl?

-We're going into town.
-Why?

So we can go down Broadway,
and you can stare at every kid?

Molly, stop nagging me!
I said I’m not going and I’m not.

I won't be here to play that benefit.

-Where you going?
-To find him.

-How do you know where to look?
-I don't.

-But I have to do something.
-I’ll be late if I don't go now.

Promise you won't do anything crazy.
I’ll be early.

-I’ll skip the curtain call. Okay?
-Sure, Molly.

-Hello, Molly, darling.
-Bobby!

-Mrs. Donahue.
-Yes?

You and your daughter are in 12A.
Up the stairs.

-I’ll hang your dress up.
-Thanks.

Let me start things off.
I can handle her.

You know how often I've tried
at the theater.

She just won't listen to me.

-Hi, Mom. I’ll take that.
-A little crowded in here, isn't it?

I've moved upstairs.
You and Vicky are sharing.

Oh, are we?

-I’ll dress in the powder room.
-You will not.

-I told you.
-It'll work.

Probably not, but I’m curious.

-I think you owe Vicky an apology.
-This isn't my idea.

It’s mine. It’s time
you two straightened things out.

So that's the plot.
So my daughter...

-You are my daughter?
-I think so.

She thinks we should be friends.
Mind if I ask what we have in common?

-It’s very simple. You both love Tim.
-I see.

Aren't you a little late?

I might be. I hope not.

Mom, I’m crazy about you,
but you're stubborn and awfully tough.

You can't go on blaming Vicky.
Tim did this whole thing to himself.

I was around. I saw it.
You gotta hear her side of it.

I’m getting out of here.
The doctor said not to get excited.

Be a little easy, will you, Mom?

Maybe I’m tough and stubborn

but it's hard to believe
you're really in love with Tim.

I don't know how to convince you,
but it's true.

-Then fit Lew into this picture.
-You know Lew did everything for me.

He may have had ideas,
but I didn't share them.

There was no one for me but Tim.

-Too bad you didn't let him know.
-I tried to.

But he was pretty stubborn too.

[KNOCKING]

Come in.

-Steve!
-Mom!

It’s so good to see you.
You look wonderful.

Thin, but wonderful.
Excuse me.

This is Tim's brother.
Steve, Vicky Parker.

How do you do?

I’m glad to know you.
Tim talked about you a lot.

-He was proud of you.
-He talked a lot about you too.

That's nice. Excuse me.

I’ll find out where
I’m spotted in the show.

Vicky, will you do me a favor?

If you see Katy, tell her
her mother isn't stubborn.

It'll take a few years
to change her mind

but she's not stubborn.

-Thanks, Mrs. Donahue.
-See you later.

-So that's the girl?
-Yeah. Nice girl too.

I was wrong again.
Why didn't you say you were coming?

I didn't know.

We just got a 24-hour pass.
I knew you were doing a show here...

-A 24-hour pass? Does that mean...
-It means a 24-hour pass.

Don't doubletalk me.

I’m not supposed to say anymore.
Besides, I don't know anymore.

-Shouldn't you get ready?
-I’m all made up.

Just have to put my dress on.
Only be a minute.

-Is Pop back?
-No.

-How did you know?
-Katy wrote me.

I wish there was some way
we could help you.

Did she write
you're gonna be an uncle?

Yeah, isn't that great?
She booked me for the christening.

At least she and Charlie are happy.

-Any news about Tim?
-Not a word.

It’s over a year.
Even the detectives have given up.

I still believe he'll be back.

I’m not so sure. Sometimes
I think we'll never see him again.

Mom.

Don't lose faith.

I don't always think that.
Just sometimes.

-MAN: You're on next. Five minutes.
-Be right with you.

-You wanna watch from the wings?
-Yeah, that'll be great.

Okay, I’ll fix it.

There's no business
Like show business

Like no business I know

Everything about it is appealing

Everything the traffic will allow

Nowhere could you get
That happy feeling

When you are stealing
That extra bow

There's no people
Like show people

They smile when they are low

Yesterday they told you
You would not go far

That night you open
And there you are

Next day on your dressing room
They've hung a star

Let's go on with the show

The costumes, the scenery
The makeup, the props

The audience that lifts you
When you're down

The headaches, the heartaches
The backaches, the flops

The sheriff who escorts you
Out of town

The opening when your heart
Beats like a drum

The closing
When the customers don't come

There's no business
Like show business

Like no business I know

You get word
Before the show has started

That your favorite uncle
Died at dawn

On top of that
Your pa and ma have parted

You're brokenhearted
But you go on

There's no people
Like show people

They smile when they are low

Even with a turkey
That you know will fold

You may be stranded
Out in the cold

Still you wouldn't change it
For a sack of gold

Let's go on with the show

Let's go on with the

show!

Tim!

Why did you do it, Tim? Why?

I had to, Mom.
I had to work things out for myself.

-Where's Pop?
-He's...

Here, son.

Hello, Pop.

-Oh, Terry!
-Hi, Molly.

You'd think I'd been lost.

You're supposed to lead us
into the big number.

I’ll be right with you.
Somebody give me a handkerchief.

You all hold it,
I’ll take care of this. Stand by.

Thank you for being so patient.
My wife got a little excited.

Our last show here was the last time
The Five Donahues appeared as an act.

Then lots of things happened.
That's how it was until just now

when The Five Donahues reunited.

We're sentimental about this place

so we want to do
Alexander's Ragtime Band,

the number we did here.

Ladies and gentlemen,
The Five Donahues!

Come on and hear, come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime Band

Come on and hear, come on and hear
It's the best band in the land

And if you care to hear "Swanee River"
Played in ragtime

Come on and hear, come on and hear
Alexander's Ragtime

That raggy beat gets in your feet

Come on and meet

Alexander's Ragtime Band

There's no business, there's no
Business that's half so thrilling

Cowboys, the tumblers
The wrestlers, the clowns

The roustabouts that
Move the show at dawn

The music, the spotlights
The people, the towns

The thrill of that applause
When you go on

You're standing out in front
On opening night

And there's your billing
Right up there in lights

There's no people
Like show people

They smile when they are low

Even with a turkey
That you know will fold

You may be stranded
Out in the cold

Still you wouldn't change it
For a sack of gold

You go on with the show

There's no business like show business
Like no business I know

Everything about it is appealing

Everything the traffic will allow

Nowhere can you get
That happy feeling

When you are stealing
That extra bow

There's no people
Like show people

They smile when they are low

Yesterday they told you
You would not go far

That night you open
And there you are

Next day on your dressing room
They've hung a star

Let's go on with the show

There's no business like show business
Let's go on with the show!