Then again, this being the theatre, those duets are usually overshadowed by circumstances, and the star-crossed lovers often face imminent separation. But nevertheless in that moment, it’s difficult not to get swept up in their happiness, and even the most bitter of singletons can’t help but feel warm and fuzzy for those few minutes, despite knowing it’s all about to fall apart.
But that’s not the only kind of love you find in musical theatre. There’s the unrequited kind; just think of poor Eponine in Les Mis, forced to watch Marius as he declares his love for someone else. And unhealthy love, like the devotion of Nancy to Bill Sikes in Oliver, despite his abuse.
Then there’s love for a friend. As much as I enjoy the romance between Fiyero and Elphaba in Wicked, I’m much more moved by her relationship with her best friend Glinda. And let’s not forget the love of a parent for their child, which can lead them to do things they’d never have thought possible - like Kim in Miss Saigon, who’ll do anything to protect her son.
So here are ten quotes about love, from some of my favourite shows. What are yours?
"No-one can stop what I must do… I swear I’ll give my life for you."
Miss Saigon
"Let me be your freedom, let daylight dry your tears."
Phantom Of The Opera
"All alone, I walk with him till morning."
Les Miserables
"It’s enough for this restless wanderer, just to be with you."
The Lion King
"I won't feel blue, like I always do, 'cause somewhere in the crowd there's you"
MAMMA MIA!
"I don’t know you, but I want you all the more for that."
Once
"I saw you and the world went away."
West Side Story
"You’ll be with me, like a handprint on my heart."
Wicked
"When someone needs you, you love them so."
Oliver!
"You’re like a stinky old cheese babe, just getting riper with age."
Hairspray
Happy Valentine's Day!
@lizzid82