I was entertained when I saw an ABC story with the headline, "A Spoonful of Sugar’ Hits Broadway," to announce the new musical, "Mary Poppins," which opens in New York Nov. 6.
For New Yorkers and visitors to the Big Apple York, this is exciting news that the beloved British nanny makes her theatrical debut.
In fact, you can listen here to a "20/20 In Touch Daily Webcast," which includes an interview with singer/actress Ashley Brown, who takes on the iconic role that garnered an Academy Award for Julie Andrews when she was in her late 20s.
Just in case you’re in the dark about the meaning of this headline, let me bring you up to speed. You see, "’A Spoonful of Sugar" is a catchy tune that’s included in the film "Mary Poppins."
Anyhow, it’s really hard to find fault with this catchy, wonderful song, but the lyrics are kind of intriguing, looked at from my sugar-savvy perspective. Indeed, this tune just shows how important a role sugar has played in our our culture.
Words and Music by Richard M. Sherman
and Robert B. Sherman
In ev`ry job that must be done, there is an element of fun.
You find the fun and snap the job`s a game.
And ev`ry task you undertake becomes a pice of cake.
A lark! A spree! It`s very clear to see.
That a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.
Medicine go dow-wown, medicine go down.
Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down
in the most delightful way.
A robin feathering his nest has very little time to rest
while gathering his bits of twine and twig.
Though quite intent in his pursuit, he has a merry tune to toot.
He knows a song will move the job along.
For a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.
Medicine go dow-wown, medicine go down.
Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down
in the most delightful way.
The honey bees that fetch the nectar from the flowerto the comb
never tire of ever buzzing to and fro.
Because they take a little nip, from ev`ry flower that they sip.
And hence, they find their task is not a grind.
For a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.
Medicine go dow-wown, medicine go down.
Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down
in the most delightful way.