Variety says that Jule Styne wrote a second work that came close to the greatness of his own "Gypsy." That second work was not "Funny Girl." It was "Bells Are Ringing."
I love "Bells." I love the pun in the title. (Ella answers the bell of the telephone--but, also, when you're in love, "bells are ringing.") I love that this is a musical that is *not* an adaptation--how often does that happen? (Yes, the plot borrows from "Cinderella," but it does this in a very loose way.) I love that the answering service is run by Sue and is called "Susanswerphone."
"Bells Are Ringing" is now known mainly for "Just in Time," a perfect love song:
Just in time.
You found me just in time.
Before you came, my time...
Was running low.
Now you're here--
And now I know just where I'm going.
No more doubt or fear--
I've found my way.
For love came just in time.
You found me just in time.
And changed my lonely life--
That lovely day.
Comden and Green do work that seems effortless. Tiny changes within words and phrases are a way of playing with the "before and after" structure of the song. For example: "my time" versus "in time." Also: "lonely" versus "lovely."
I wish I had a chance to see Victoria Clark in this show.
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