American Old Time Song Lyrics: 47 The Plays The Thing

Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 47

THE PLAY'S THE THING.
Copyright. 1895, by T. B. Harms & Co.
Words by Sydney Rosenfeld Music by Ludwig Englaender.

The play's the thing, the play's the thing; we'll fill it full of novel schemes;
Of coming centuries we'll sing, of golden thoughts and flowing dreams;
I'll have him write a scene for me, wherein I'll act a manish part,
While all beneath my garb may see my tender woman's heart.
The play's the thing, the play's the thing; that's why we say, that's why we sing!
The play's the thing, the play's the thing; that's why we say, that's why we sing!

And I shall have him write a part, to give my voice its long-sought chance;
To make some impresario start, and hail me like a bird from France;
I'll tell my tale in florid phrase, and speak entirely on the staff;
How my cadenzas shall amaze those scoffers come to laugh.
The play's the thing, the play's the thing, etc.

And I will play a part as well, that will not need a lot of speech;
The sentiments that words can't tell, are all within the dancer's reach;
When racking thoughts distress the mind and cues are flying to und fro,
A consolation I shall find in answering with my toe.
The play's the thing, the play's the thing, etc.