Miss Saigon Script
ENGINEER GIGI
MISS SAIGON A musical by Alan Boubil and Claude Michel Schonberg
surprise! who's left to screw who hasn't gone
GIRLS I found this new girl, get her dressed
tonight I will be Miss Saigon
from the country untouched ENGINEER ENGINEER
** ** OVERTURE/BACKSTAGE AT DREAMLAND
shut up! and get your hot pants on
GIGI
they say Saigon has weeks
just give that virgin act a rest
I say it's time to pack
ALL GIRLS
GIRLS
GIGI (A Friday night in April 1975. Backstage at an after-hours club in Saigon.
each day more GI's disappear
Vietnamese bar-girls are getting into costumes.)
ENGINEER
(mocking the new girl)
there's still some left and they'll all be here
you are my first American
tonight I will be Miss Saigon
each day these little buns of theirs are worth less and less
GIRLS one of us will be Miss Saigon
ENGINEER
(they laugh) ALL GIRLS
I need a visa fast, and I'm not looking back
a girl can trust the Engineer ENGINEER
ENGINEER I spread the word - it's Miss Saigon
allez! allez! allez! (THE ENGINEER brings in a new girl, KIM)
why does it take all day? get your asses on stage... I'm raising cash tonight
(the ENGINEER looks through the door into the club.)
ENGINEER
** ** THE HEAT IS ON IN SAIGON
one of the girls)
son of a bitch, they're here! ENGINEER I can still engineer it's like the old days, my little gamines
ENGINEER one of these boys might be your ticket out
(turns to KIM) GIRLS why is she in that dress?
("Dreamland" is a club filled with American Marines, civilians and south Vietnamese officers. The girls parade around and get the crowd to buy raffle tickets: the winner of the "beauty contest" will be the prize.)
ah, monsieur Chris! monsieur John! you've come to win Miss Saigon
oh sure! ah! it's my new princess
JOHN
ah, yes!
AMERICANS
I gotta get my friend laid
a bride will give the guys a treat
the heat is on in Saigon
as a last souvenir
ENGINEER you know who's out here? a gang of marines!
the girls are hotter 'n' hell lower your eyelids and play sweet
GIRLS
men pay the moon to get fresh meat
they're here?
one of these slits here will be Miss Saigon God, the tension is high, not to mention the smell
allez! allez! allez!
CHRIS I love you, pal, but your bullshit I've had up to here
the heat is on in Saigon get out and do your song! ENGINEER
is there a war going on? don't make the show too long
we'll pick 'em clean that's what this contest's about
don't ask, I ain't gonna tell voila'! on stage all! welcome to... Dreamland!!!
GIRLS yes, sir!
ENGINEER, CHRIS and JOHN the heat is on in Saigon
(two friends, CHRIS and JOHN, are among the Marines. JOHN is with
JOHN
but 'til they tell us we're gone MIMI
the winner gets her for free
CHRIS
I'm gonna buy you a girl for a Marine, I'll show more
Good Jesus, John, who is she? CHRIS
CHRIS AMERICANS
the meat is cheap in Saigon
AMERICANS
you won't get up off the floor
I used to love getting stoned, waking up with some whore
(AND CROWD)
you can buy me a beer the heat is on in Saigon (the girls leave the men and move onto the stage)
MIMI
don't tell me I'm reassigned, all that chickenshit sucks tonight I'm out of my mind, not to mention ten bucks
I don't know why I went dead, it's not fun anymore
the Cong is tight'ning the noose is it a week or a day or an hour that we got?
(the ENGINEER pushes KIM forward)
tonight could be our last shot got to put it to use
KIM
(the GIRLS come off the stage and mingle with the men.)
see my bikini, it's just the right size GIGI YVETTE
if I'm your pin-up, I'll melt all your brass
don't you enjoy how it rides up my thighs?
stuck on your wall, with a pin in my ass
look from behind, it'll knock out your eyes
if you get me, you will travel first class I'll show you, we will make magic, cheri
I'm seventeen, and I'm new here today the village I come from seems so far away
ALL, INCLUDING GIRLS
all of the girls know much more what to say
tonight I bet that you and I will get along
but I know
forget about the threat, forget the Viet-Cong
YVONNE I have a heart like the sea I'll show you: my special trophy of war
ENGINEER
a million dreams are in me ALL MEN
you buy more tickets from me
Mimi, Gigi, Yvette or Yvonne gonna buy me a beer, and elect Miss Saigon
the movie plays and plays (the ENGINEER puts a cheap tiara on GIGI and a ribbon which says
(it is one of the Marines. He cheers with his friends. The scene freezes.)
he takes me to New York
Miss Saigon.) (the ENGINEER holds the election by holding his hand over each girl's
he gives me dollar bills ** ** THE MOVIE IN MY MIND
AMERICANS head for applause. When KIM is judged, CHRIS claps loudly, which
GIGI
and eat too much ice cream
and things are not going well
they are not nice, they're mostly noise
and life is like a dream
but still at midnight, the party goes on
they swear like men, they screw like boys I know there's nothing in their hearts
ENGINEER
ENGINEER
dream the dream I long to find
a good-bye party in hell
Yvonne, Yvette, Mimi, Kim, Gigi
(GIGI wins)
our children laugh all day
the heat is on in Saigon
makes her notice him.)
ENGINEER
the screen before me fills
and now who wins this pussycat?
(the ENGINEER holds a bowl; GIGI picks up a ticket.)
but every time I take one in my arms
KIM
it starts:
I will not cry, I will not think
the movie in my mind
I'll do my dance, I'll make them drink
the dream they leave behind
attention, s'il vous plait!
a scene I can't erase
by popular demand
and in a strong GI's embrace GIGI
Miss Gigi Van Tranh
the movie in my mind
when I make love, it won't be me and if they hurt me, I'll just close my eyes
flee this life number 66!
is elected Miss Saigon!
flee this place KIM
GIRLS
and see they are not nice, they're mostly noise
flee this life
ENGINEER
flee this place
an U.S. visa to help me out
the movie in my mind they kill like men, they die like boys
lend me a bit of your embassy clout KIM
the dream that fills my head they give their cash,
I ordered a beer!
ENGINEER she'll get him up,
a world that's far away
it's her first night in town JOHN
a man who will not kill they keep their hearts
where life is not unkind the movie in my mind
but every night again it starts
but I have to warn you there isn't a chance pal, you're too well known
she don't come cheap
look, what I want is that girl in the dress
it's got to be twenty for my princess
ENGINEER
JOHN
you have a good eye
twenty dollars??
** ** THE TRANSACTION KIM who'll fight for me instead
(the ENGINEER approaches JOHN)
he'll keep us safe all day her name is Kim, she's my new princess
so no one comes at night ENGINEER to blow the dream away dream
hey monsieur John, how'd you like to get rich
the dream I have to find
go home in style. . .?
the movie in my mind
and in a strong GI's embrace
she's sort of a virgin, well more or less JOHN
for twenty more you get a room and key
it's my friend Chris JOHN
ALL GIRLS
ENGINEER you give her a try?
who's the one feeling down
for fifty bucks, she's got the whole night free
MARINE
MARINES
yeah okay, what's the pitch?
no one gives us a buzz JOHN
you caught that sergeant by the nose
** ** THE DANCE
like the Engineer does I'm starting to cry pal
you stay with him until he goes
you're so out of touch (JOHN approaches CHRIS with Kim)
call him Chris the trouble with you is you think too much
(A MARINE begins to play the saxophone. CHRIS and KIM start to
he'll like that dance. For a long time they don't speak. Finally:)
ooh JOHN stop drooling white boy
ol' Dr. John knows what you need alright
you're losing your cool
I've bought you a present
you like this jail bait
she yours all night
CHRIS
MARINES
John, open your eyes
no one gives you a hit like the Engineer's shit!!
KIM that marine
KIM
wants his beer
my name is Kim
ENGINEER
(trying to do her job)
you said you needed a job you said you'd turn a trick
KIM
you'd better prove it, and quick!
I like you Chris
this is the end of the line this whole rotten scene this little girl, we could be in the sack
(Across the room, the ENGINEER speaks to KIM.) CHRIS (he leads KIM to CHRIS)
for what it costs me to buy a big mac
ENGINEER
don't talk like that
John, it's time to go back -
see little princess, I was right
ENGINEER
you know what I mean
you got the biggest score tonight
voila!
KIM what did I say?
KIM
how can I feel good when nothing's right?
CHRIS take me away you shouldn't be here
why is she cool when there is no breeze?
don't say a word
hey look I mean you no offense but why does nothing here make sense? why God? Show your hand
Vietnam just come with me (CHRIS hands KIM some money) get the hell out. . .
you don't give answers, do you friend? ** ** WHY GOD WHY?
just questions that don't ever end
why can't one guy understand? I've been with girls who knew much more I never felt confused before
why God? Why today? ENGINEER what's going on?
(KIM leads CHRIS out of the Club, and into a tiny cubicle, which has in it
you don't like her?
only a bed, a table, and a small window overlooking the moonlit city.
CHRIS
Later in the night, CHRIS is dressed and standing at the window. KIM is
oh, yes I do
asleep. Outside, Saigon still bustles.) KIM I like him too
ENGINEER take her away
why me? What's your plan? I'm all through here, on my way
I can't help her, no one can
there's nothing left here that I'll miss
I liked my mem'ries as they were
why send me now a night like this?
but now I'll leave rememb'ring her
who is the girl in this rusty bed? why am I back in a filthy room?
(CHRIS leaves some money on a table and goes out into the street. CHRIS
CHRIS
why is her voice ringing in my head?
is accosted by Vietnamese who beg for help leaving the country. He
why does Saigon never sleep at night?
why am I high on her cheap perfume?
pushes them.)
why does this girl smell of orange trees?
Vietnam
when I went home before
no one talked of the war what they knew from TV
CHRIS ** ** THIS MONEY IS YOURS
that can't be true! how my parents were bodies whose faces were gone?
didn't have a thing to do with me I went back and re-upped
(KIM wakens. CHRIS hands her the money he had left.)
how I ran from the rice field and saw them in flames?
KIM
I have had my fill of pain
why would I lie?
I will not look back again
sure Saigon is corrupt I would rather die it felt better to be CHRIS
CHRIS
here driving for the embassy this money's yours
all the girls lie!
CHRIS
'cause here if you can pull a string
please take it all
they just want to get out of here
can I see you tonight?
a guy like me lives like a king
hey, you want more? maybe you're not like that
just as long as you don't believe anything
KIM but I don't know who you are KIM
well, I'll be at the club
no, no, I don't want anything (CHRIS stops, then goes back into KIM'S room.) why God? Why this face?
CHRIS
why such beauty in this place?
hey, what's wrong with you?
I liked my mem'ries as they were
just her
do you want one more tale of a Vietnam girl? want to know I was bound to a man I don't love?
CHRIS no, you won't how would you like...
KIM but now I'll leave rememb'ring her
selling "beaucoup amour" KIM
I've not done this before
do you want to be told how my village was burned? want to hear how my family was blasted away?
KIM how would I like...?
your moon still floats on high KIM
bright'ning the sky with the flame
CHRIS
you are sunlight and I moon
KIM
of love
how would you like
joined by the gods of fortune
the birds awake
living with me?
midnight and high noon
it feels good like this
sharing the sky
CHRIS
made of
so that's how we should be
we have been blessed, you and I
the stars shine too
sunlight
BOTH
moonlight
so would you like? KIM CHRIS my hands still shake
KIM
KIM
you are here like a mystery tomorrow will be the full moon
yes, I would like! I'm from a world that's so different
CHRIS
CHRIS
from all that you are
I reach for you
okay, it's set
how in the light of one night
no more to say
did we come so far?
I can bring friends to bless our room with paper unicorns and perfume
BOTH if you want me to and we meet in the sky!
screw the Engineer you're the one good thing
KIM
that I've found out here
outside day starts to dawn
CHRIS KIM unicorns? sure. . . you are sunlight and I moon ** ** SUN AND MOON
CHRIS
joined here
** ** THE TELEPHONE SONG
CHRIS
april fuckin' moon!!
JOHN (It is the middle of the next day. CHRIS is on the telephone.)
CHRIS
what are you saying? Are you out of your mind? all leaves are canceled, you could be left behind Saigon is falling apart, and you'd better be here
John, listen fast, you did not get this call CHRIS you're the one who bought the girl for me after all once you're a friend, you're a friend through and through
she's been hurt, you see both her parents died what else could she be?
when you are in trouble, then I'll cover for you
John, is that you, buddy? Listen to me
here is the news, since you've been on the moon
do I sound diff'rent? how else could I be?
cities in the boondocks are dropping like flies
JOHN
last night I spent a whole lifetime in paradise.
wives and civilians will be shipping out soon
not this time, the town's too hot
hey, tell the CO I'm taking all of my leave
crowds around the Embassy have tears in their eyes
for one Kongai whore
JOHN sweet as that, and she's an orphan too! how can a guy fight that? You got one day, not two then be back! ol' buddy, I will not get you killed
we're gonna play house, oh John, it's like Christmas eve
Thieu has resigned, the new regime may not hold
we have sworn we won't see the sun for forty-eight hours
people at the place think we'll send the marines
CHRIS
we are sending nothing from what I've been told
she is no whore, you saw her too
buddy, are you there? Do you know what this means?
she's really more, like... the April moon
** 0 ** THE DEAL
(JOHN at the Embassy, in the midst of chaos: files being packed or
(At another location, CHRIS and the ENGINEER)
ENGINEER burned, typewriters crated, etc.)
sure! Time to fall in love! my friend JOHN
we had a deal for Kim, but that's on ice
I'll get my papers in another way
I'm sorry, sergeant, but I've changed the price
I'll make a rich man of some attachŽ
I need a visa from your embassy
tv and stereo she gets
dju vui vay
and Elvis Presley on cassettes
vao nyay moy
(KIM and CHRIS enter)
KIM
(CHRIS leaves) you get me that, you'll get the girl for free
CHRIS
with little shits like him, you take the bucks and run he gave me six weeks income, I'll be gone in one
will you give me life smile today GIRLS look how he bought her a new dress you did a job on him I guess
cut the crap, this money's all I got I don't give visas out, is this a deal or not?
look with favoring eyes on this man show your daughter's heart your forgiveness and send to us
** 1 ** THE WEDDING CEREMONY
KIM
from your home above
he simply asked me
your blessing on our love
you tell me GIRLS
I said, "yes"
one of us girls is moving on (CHRIS draws his revolver and aims at the ENGINEER)
one girl will get out of saigon
ENGINEER
GIGI
okay, okay, the money...it will do
so now who's really Miss Saigon
GIRLS
KIM
GIRLS
(echoing)
come on, let's bless the new princess
dju vui vay
dju vui vay
yu doi my
yu doi my
dju vui vay
dju vui vay
GIRLS vao nyay moy
too bad, I had a Rolex watch for you
dju vui vay GIRLS
yu doi my GIRLS
CHRIS
dju vui vay it's pretty but what does it mean?
GIRLS
GIGI
CHRIS
to Miss Saigon!
this girl is mine!
GUESTS
THUY
Miss Saigon!
yours?
KIM
yu doi my it's what all the girls sing at weddings
who is this man? this American man? do none of you see what's ahead have you gone mad? these are losers and whores who will soon all be gone or be dead
(CHRIS looks up, startled)
** 2 ** THUY'S ARRIVAL
CHRIS now
GIRLS
KIM
(the door opens. A stranger enters.)
dju vui vay they didn't know what else to sing
CHRIS get out of here
THUY you?
KIM
THUY you have no right to be here GIRLS
CHRIS
vao nyay moy it's the prettiest thing that I've ever heard
you're here, at last TOGETHER
I'm not a prize you can claim
who are you?
we were promised at thirteen
I've come to take you home all night, I ran the woman I am now is not the same
I made it through the line KIM (friends arrive carrying beer and a platter of food. The party gathers
Kim, tell your friends, it's time to go away
stop! THUY
this life, it ends around the bed, and GIGI leads a toast to KIM.)
you're safe with me
THUY
our parents bound us together, and that is our fate
you knew I'd come back to get you
I will not change my mind!
you broke your father's word
in a life where nothing seems real
this is your curse! why didn't you wait?
I have found you THUY I have found you you are still mine!
KIM my parents got themselves killed in the week you changed sides
(THUY runs out. CHRIS runs out after him but he's gone.) KIM
KIM CHRIS not anymore!
if there were promises all of them died when they died
in a world that's moving too fast
what a party that was! in a world where nothing can last THUY
(CHRIS and THUY pull guns. The girl scream.)
KIM
I will hold you
you're going to leave me now
I will hold you
CHRIS
CHRIS
yes, I'm going to leave
our lives will change, when tomorrow comes
you're mine until we die!
THUY (GIGI and the GIRLS leave quickly)
Saigon is doomed and take you out with me
THUY
and so is your GI
Kim, leave this man behind
KIM CHRIS
KIM
** 3 ** THE LAST NIGHT OF THE WORLD
tonight our hearts drown the distant drums
get the hell out!
go on!
CHRIS CHRIS
and shoot!
THUY
in a place that won't let us feel and we have music all right
I will take you tearing the night
to hold you tight
a song
and dance like it's the last night of the world
BOTH KIM played on a solo saxophone
. . .played on a solo saxophone
I'll go with you a crazy sound
so stay with me KIM and hold me tight CHRIS
dreams
you won't believe all the things you'll see
were all I ever knew
KIM a lonely sound
and dance
I know 'cause you'll see them all with me
like it's the last night of the world CHRIS
BOTH dreams a cry that tells us love goes on and on
BOTH
played on a solo saxophone
if we're together that's when
it's telling me
we'll hear it again
to hold you tight
a song
and dance like it's the last night of the world
played on a solo saxophone
** 4 ** THE MORNING OF THE DRAGON
you won't need when I'm through
BOTH anywhere we may be
(It is three years later. Saigon has been renamed Ho Chi Minh City. A street pageant is celebrating the glorious victory of North Vietnam and
a crazy sound I will sing with you a lonely sound CHRIS on the other side of the earth
the Third Anniversary of Reunification.)
our song. . . a cry that tells us love goes on and on FIRST GROUP
there's a place where life still has worth
played on a solo saxophone it's telling me
(they dance together in the balcony)
on silent feet it came
breathing a sheet of flame, it came
the morning of the dragon truth lit the morning of the dragon all the
years away
who lives a lie must change or die
closing in on its rightful prey burning a hundred years away
[up the street [walls fell down
ENGINEER FIRST GROUP
the morning of the dragon truth lit up the street the tiger we were stalking walked on paper feet and in the clear white heat of dawn was gone. . .
the tiger we were stalking walked brother greeted brother in a
the morning of the dragon truth lit up the street
[on paper feet [sudden light
the tiger we were stalking walked on paper feet
and in the clear white heat of dawn and in the endless night
and in the clear white heat of dawn
three years - how quick they moved look how the world's improved Saigon, that queen of sin renamed for Ho Chi Minh
was gone. . . it's gone was gone FIRST GROUP SECOND GROUP
SOLDIERS (two soldiers enter with the ENGINEER)
who lives a lie must change or die
from every door they came victory
FIRST GROUP SECOND THIRD GROUP
these children born of war, they came victory
on silent feet it came victory may all our children learn
ENGINEER
ENGINEER
three years of school was nice
but men, will always be men
breathing a sheet of flame, victory
in rice fields, planting rice
they washed out my brain
you did good work you see
I'm still who I am
re-educating me
deep inside, I know what I know
sharing a secret word, which they victory waited a hundred years to say
it came closing in on its victory the tide of right will turn FIRST GROUP SECOND GROUP
rightful prey burning a hundred
SOLDIERS
wherever I go, I speak Uncle Ho
and think Uncle Sam
SOLDIER #1 has ordered you back here
you've done your job we brought him down under cover of night
SOLDIER #1 your name is Trahn Van Dinh
that's it now go back
SOLDIERS
SOLDIER #2
who lives a lie must change or die
once he had served the American clique
ENGINEER
I'll take over now
(the soldiers leave)
at your service (THUY, now the people's commissar, enters)
THUY selling our sisters and daughters for gold
SOLDIER #1 you're called the Engineer
SOLDIER #3
SOLDIER #2 we found the man that you wanted so bad
ENGINEER
Kim. . . find my cousin for me
SOLDIER #2
I know she worked for you
notice we caught him in less than a week
you knew who her friends were
yes sir SOLDIER #3 SOLDIER #1
and Commissar, you were perfectly right
the people's commissar
one of them is the clue SOLDIER #3
sniff her out, you know how
when we get orders we do what we're told
think now what would she do?
SOLDIER #2 ENGINEER ENGINEER
he had been take up north to a camp
am I free?
THUY I never saw her again alright, alright I am a different man that's it, that's all
SOLDIER #3
I've been enlightened since then but. . . men must help other men
it came closing in on its victory the tide of right will turn rightful prey burning a hundred
and seeing it's you
the name I heard him speak...was Kim yes I know that this was years ago but when moonlight fills my room I know
years away I'll work to the bone
you are here... still
and I alone know why
(in a bedroom on the other side of the world, in America. A woman is sitting beside CHRIS who is sleeping. She is ELLEN, CHRIS' s wife)
I still FIRST GROUP THUY I'll give you 48 hours if you want to stay free
I still believe the morning of the dragon truth lit up the street the tiger we were stalking walked on paper feet
don't come back here alone
ELLEN you will return I know you will my heart
and in the clear white heat of dawn
last night I watched you sleeping once more, the nightmare came
against all odds I heard you cry out something
(the ENGINEER leaves)
was gone. . .
holds still yes, still
THUY and SOLDIERS
** 5 ** I STILL BELIEVE
I still believe I know as long as I can keep believing, I'll live
FIRST GROUP SECOND THIRD GROUP on silent feet it came victory may all our children learn
KIM
a word that sounded like... a name and it hurts me more than I can bear knowing part of you I'll never share
I'll live last night I watched him sleeping
love cannot die
never know
my body pressed to him
you will return
and then he started speaking
you will return
but still I still believe
breathing a sheet of flame, victory
the time will come
when nothing keeps us apart my heart, forever more holds still
I still believe safe with me
you are (the ENGINEER enters, looking for KIM)
as long as I and I wish you could tell what you don't
I gave up that life you must understand
ENGINEER can keep believing, [want to tell (CHRIS wakes up from his sleep with a cry. ELLEN takes him in her
ENGINEER coo-coo princess, look who's here
I'll live hell must be
what your
I'll live sleep now
you can
out that door is a big shot who waits
your resurrected Engineer like a pup to come up
arms and calms him)
you will return can cry now
ELLEN it' s all over, I' m here
and I know why your wife now
you I'm
don't ask me how I tracked you down who has the sharpest nose in town?
and eat out of your hand Kim, the good times are back
I'm here to throw a rope before you drown
KIM
there is nothing to fear I'm yours
for life
for men, will always be men
don't go on
until we die die
until we
you change the regime
it's too late
Chris, what' s haunting you? won' t you let me inside
the lust doesn't stop what you so want to hide! I need you too!
(In America, CHRIS holds ELLEN; in Vietnam, KIM is alone in
you and I will team up again
ENGINEER
together we'll reap
not too late for my star!
the cream of the crop KIM
ELLEN
her room.) KIM
for still I will hold you all night, I will make
KIM ** 6 ** BACK IN TOWN
[it all right
Engineer, I don't want you here
please let me hide in peace
ENGINEER
I knew in time faith would weave a design
I made a promise once with these words
better to screw the police enter, monsieur commissar
tying your life and mine into one
THUY
which neither time nor distance has changed
don't say anymore! each day I'd wait
he will come to me, still not a word!
(THUY enters)
like a soldier must wait you can change trusting victory to come with the sun
THUY you can learn
THUY three years I've been away
after the fight in the still of the night
look at me don't decide too soon
I kept faith we would meet
I would picture my bride, bright as jade you'll be my wife
KIM
we will build a new life
somewhere deep in my soul
and fulfill the vow our fathers made
shines the smallest of lights
you must be mad, your american jack has gone for good and he'll never come back they ran away with the skin they could save
ENGINEER me, I found her for you
the ones who stayed here are dead in a grave
and no wind blows it out THUY
(the ENGINEER re-enters) it burns steady and strong
you, out in the street
KIM through the darkest of nights my father's vow I can't honor today
(the ENGINEER and the others leave)
and I pray in my heart he'll forgive
ENGINEER dju vui vay yu doi my dju vui vay
THUY
what you want now are some words I can't say if I lied to you how can I live?
come on now, princess, get off your cloud I'm sorry, sir, she was talking so loud
vao nyay moy the commissar is a powerful man
a girl with brains makes a life where she can princess remember your place
I think you can change before my eyes
re-education will cure the disease
she must pay, and her partner too
this me-my has just been found SOLDIER #5
don't make people lose face
she hid the day we closed the bars
THUY you must be shown what we do to a leach
get out!!
show her that we don't forget THUY why do you look away?
everybody out!! no one is cured here without scars
I can end all this shame all you need say is, "yes"
see how we teach an American's whore SOLDIER #1 you are a woman who lived without shame
(from outside, soldiers are heard marching by) you hear those soldiers out there
SOLDIER #6 ENGINEER are you waiting for them to kill me? ENGINEER
did you not get what he said?
I have heard hundreds of speeches like these
there's a big screw loose inside you
take it from me you don't want to hear more
I will rip it out of your head
SOLDIER #2
they'll do whatever I say
you're an infection left over from war
KIM
SOLDIER #3
I cannot change how I feel!
you have dishonored the national name
that's a mad dog on the rampage THUY
if you think he'll change, save your breath
it's time to act my friends it's time
just say "yes", I don't care if you love him Princess, life has it all over death!
THUY SOLDIER #4
SOLDIERS
come inside! her face betrays her crime
KIM
he has kept me alive THUY
I have a husband I love
KIM, THUY and the ENGINEER
now you see why and as for you, come with me
real as the sun in the sky I cannot live with a lie
I must tell you "no" I am talking of life or death now KIM I am talking of staying free no!
THUY
** 7 ** THUY'S DEATH / YOU WILL NOT TOUCH HIM
there is a secret do you see now who has the power? do you still think crazy things?
ENGINEER that you don't know so there it is now, I'll be moving on
THUY there is a force here no one must ever see
if you don't need me, I'd rather be gone
I never show this thing you're showing me you say it's treason
KIM
two kids in love don't need strangers around
Chris will come to me like the Phoenix
that bastard fouls our name to keep my vow season after season KIM
and he'll take me off on his wings
THUY
I survived somehow
you just get out!
if you want the reason
my baby's not to blame for what I've done I will show you now
THUY ENGINEER
Tam!
you're a traitor to your country
THUY right! I won't make a sound you must decide upon
KIM
(TAM comes out from behind the curtain and runs to KIM)
which side you're really on
look, Thuy, this is my son
you whored to make this kid
(grabs his sack and exits) if I am, then let it be
KIM
KIM
THUY
that isn't what I did
you will not touch him is my enemy
don't touch my little boy and now you'll shoot your cousin'
he
and it's a
I have no other choice it's he turns you from me don't touch my boy erase him from your life
you must seem how it is when you're my wife
even your memory
having that child of his brands us for life
he's what I live for one drop in a flood
no alternative! This child cannot live!
and do not test my will a gun that lost the war
left here to
what I must do I will
you're the corrupted one I'm warning you, go on and shoot! Don't wait
he's
taint our blood (THUY pulls a knife, threatening the boy.)
KIM
U.S. gun
don't touch my son
THUY
you don't know how to kill
to save
(she shoots THUY and, at the same moment, the street pageant continues in the street outside.)
your bastard son for him I'll kill must not hesitate
you
he's my only joy our marriage bond was sworn
CROWD this is the hour
KIM
this is our land
the earth moves where I stand
we found the power
I feel the turning of a wheel
in our brother's hand
I feel nothing in my hand
and from a storm
forget that he was born KIM no!
(KIM pulls out a gun)
you will not touch him don't touch my boy
not even the feel of steel KIM THUY
you will not take my child...
he's what I live for he's my only joy
KIM no!
of course you have a gun
THUY
CROWD pierced with light
let pride fill up your chest taking TAM by the hand, escapes.)
and plan a rest'rant in the States
meanwhile pack a sack let me stop for a bit
fierce and white the lightning came
and take the first boat heading west ** 8 ** IF YOU WANT TO DIE IN BED
this was my greatest hit Miss Saigon in her crown
a bright'ning flame to end the night (The ENGINEER is making his way furtively through the city. (a gigantic statue of Ho Chi Minh is raised in the square outside.)
SOLDIERS seem to be everywhere.)
(he enters the abandoned backroom of what was once "Dreamland", opens
I made queen of the town
a trapdoor in the floor and removes a tin box. He opens it.)
for just another whore
my precious souvenirs
USA
of all the golden years
your next champ's
Rolex watches in steel
on his way
that look practically real
for men will always be men
I'll need a little stock
the rules are the same
to start me in Bangkok!
for kings or for clerks
if you want to die in bed
give me Francs, or Dollars or Yen
I got 'em paying more
here I come
one man to heed us each girl, each boy
ENGINEER
one voice to lead us
if you want to die in bed
in a song of joy
follow my example
this is the hour
when you see a cloud ahead
this is the land
it's time to show your class hit the door before forget about your karma
(in the room, KIM stares at THUY'S body.)
(KIM puts the gun, her family shrine and a few valuables in a sack and,
they make a target of your ass
I'll set up a game
if you want to die in bed
when your life hangs by a thread
I know how it works
in times of revolution
don't cry about the fates
why was I born of a race
when the flag they fly is red
grab a stash of cash
that thinks only of rice
and hates entrepreneurs?
** 9 ** KIM AND ENGINEER
we must set off for America tonight
your brat's American
me I belong in a place
so they must let us in!
where a man sets his price
in!
and you pay, and he's yours
(KIM bursts into the ENGINEER'S shack, carrying TAM)
ENGINEER the playground of mankind! all right!
I should be... American!
the movie in my mind! just like that!
where every promise lands KIM and every businessman knows where he stands
Engineer!
first stop Bangkok then I roam
Thuy is dead!
cross that ocean white with foam
he was going to kill my baby and I shot
to the place that's my heart's true home
tell me how, and while you're at it, tell me why
I'm your dear brother from now on and all our family is gone
KIM
boy, kiss your brand-new uncle Tran
I hear the voice of my soldier
this kid is okay
telling me to bring... his son
he is our entree
ENGINEER
to the USA
America! you did what?
ENGINEER
who is that?
you're telling me this halfbreed brat
if you want to die in bed en route to your nirvana you grab a chance and plunge ahead
you'll be followed! Get him out of here! Good-bye!
with these two little diamonds to bait my hooks I'll book us on a cruise "boatpeople" deluxe
is born the son of a marine? let me see his western nose
don't worry 'bout the sharks out in the Mekong bay
this bastard is... the most beautiful sight I've ever seen!
the pirates taking us are more scary any day
a passport in my hand
you just stay here and hide
my new life can begin
don't show your face outside
and go where people win KIM heaven's there... but, shit! we must leave! you need a visa to get in! Tam and I!
take care of our little dear
you who I cradled in my arms, you
you will be who you want to be, you
as long as you can have your chance
asking as little as you can
can choose whatever heaven grants
I swear I'll give my life for you
as long as you can have your chance
no one can stop what I must do
I swear I'll give my life for you
I swear I'll give my life for you.
I will go "engineer" little snip of a little man (He runs out.) I know I'd give my life for you (In the street)
you didn't ask me to be born, you
sometimes I wake up ENGINEER if you want to die in bed don't care too much for country
why should you learn of war or pain
reaching for him
to make sure you're not hurt again
I feel his shadow brush my head
I swear I'd give my life for you
but there's just moonlight on my bed
FIRST GROUP
I've tasted love beyond all fear
was he a ghost? was he a lie
no place, no home
and you should know it's love that brought you here
that made my body laugh and cry?
no life, no hope
and in one perfect night
then, by my side, the proof I see:
(a CHORUS of VIETNAMESE gathering to leave the country)
hit the open sea instead and float there like a cork uncle Ho, ho ho ho!
no chance, no change I'll have to call you from New York
when the stars burned like new ** 0 ** I' D GIVE MY LIFE FOR YOU
SECOND GROUP FIRST GROUP
you will be who you want to be, you
no regret, no return place, no home
can choose whatever heaven grants
no good-bye, no regret life, no hope
I knew what I must do I'll give you a million things I'll never own
KIM
his little one, gods of the sun, bring him to me!
I'll give you a world to conquer when you're grown
no no
no return, no good-bye chance, no change
no
JOHN ** ** BUI-DOI
like all survivors, I once thought
these kids hit walls on every side they don't belong in any place
SECOND GROUP FIRST GROUP THIRD GROUP no regret, no return no place, no home one day, one night no good-bye, no regret no life, no hope one day, one night no return, no good-bye no chance, no change one day, one night
(In September 1978 JOHN is addressing a conference in Atlanta that CHRIS and his wife ELLEN are attending at JOHN'S request.)
when I'm home I won't give a damn
their secret they can't hide
but now I know I'm caught
it's printed on their face
I'll never leave Vietnam
I never thought one day I'd plead
war isn't over when it ends some pictures never leave your mind
CHOIR
they are the faces of the children
they're called bui-doi
for half-breeds from a land that's torn but then I saw a camp for children whose crime was being born
the ones we left behind no regret... one day...
no...
the dust of life
they're called bui-doi they're called bui-doi
conceived in hell
the dust of life the dust of life
and born in strife (the ENGINEER, KIM and TAM join the boat people)
conceived in hell conceived in hell
they are the living reminders
and born in strife and born in strife
of all the good we failed to do they are the living reminders CURTAIN
we owe them fathers, and a family
we can't forget of all the good we failed to do must not forget
and loving homes they never knew
we can't forget END OF ACT I
that they are all our children too
because we know must not forget deep in our hearts
** ** ENTR'ACTE
that they are all our children too
that they are all our children too
deep in our hearts in our hearts
deep I gotta know what you meant on the phone
you must read the report, Chris, but yes, she's alive
these are souls in need they need us to give
CHORUS
someone has to pay
that's why we know
for their chance to live help me try
JOHN
what is this news you received you can only tell me
CHRIS
JOHN
you don't know, John, these nightmares, the things that I've seen
a lot of groups use my Bangkok staff
I have seen her face burned, seen her shot with my gun
to process problems on their behalf
I have chased her through streets and heard nothing but screams
that they are all our children... CHORUS they're called bui-doi
JOHN AND CHORUS
the dust of life
...too
we got this in from the embassy it's not easy to tell you, it's best that you see
conceived in hell ** ** THE REVELATION JOHN AND CHORUS and born in strife they are the living reminders of all the good we failed to do
CHORUS
what's wrong? Come on. There is still something more
(After the conference, JOHN introduces CHRIS and ELLEN to his coworkers. CHRIS draws JOHN aside.)
JOHN CHRIS
she has a child
Kim. it's about Kim, isn't it?
you have a son
only you now how hard I had tried to get word (shows CHRIS the report) tell me first, nothing else, tell me: did she survive?
JOHN
CHRIS CHRIS
that's why we know why we know
that's
JOHN John, you were great. Can I see you alone?
you won't believe me but I dreamed this, John
it's in the nightmare when I see Saigon
DOORMEN ELLEN
Jesus, John, I am married
girls! I got girls!
CHRIS hey guys, come on
is this story for real?
oh John, I never told her DOORMEN my wife, how can I tell her? CHRIS
JOHN
gorgeous girls!
a child, what do I do? but first . . . Ellen has to know
I'm only telling you what I received
I shattered Kim DOORMEN now Ellen too
but our reports can usually be believed Kim's a bar-girl in Bangkok
JOHN CHRIS
pal, I know how you feel I have learned the best thing for a couple to do I have to tell her CHRIS It's too late! I have a whole new life
you should both come to Bangkok, I mean Ellen too I have to tell her
I have a wife I love, she just can't disappear CHRIS
** ** WHAT A WASTE
very nice!
(A street filled with vendors in Patpong in Bangkok, outside a sleazy
TOURISTS hey, wow! Oh look! We gotta see!
night-club called "Le Moulin Rouge" where the ENGINEER is doorman DOORMEN and barker. Other DOORMEN compete with him for the attention of
girls! I got girls!
crowds of TOURISTS.) DOORMEN
us both? JOHN
gorgeous girls! ENGINEER
listen, guy, I know the shock you've had
JOHN
check it out! DOORMEN
it isn't always bad, there are solutions here
you both should go! very nice!
if you want to put out TOURISTS
girls! fresh dog, if that's what you'd enjoy
then you gotta come in
I'm the best worth the price if you want a boy
I'm glad my wife's not here with me!
a girl, or
(TOURISTS pass. He tries to make them take his leaflets.)
but selling these runts for sexual stunts
DOORMEN and the ENGINEER
ENGINEER
is no treat in Bangkok
leaves me beat in Bangkok ten cents an hour...
what a waste!
DOORMEN
come, come to me
to pay for my keep
girls! I got girls!
first drink is free (The CLUB OWNER, the ENGINEER'S boss, passes.)
I'm rounding up sheep to fleece here in Bangkok
DOORMEN
I'm disgraced
gorgeous girls!
I can't get ahead DOORMEN
as peace here in Bangkok
very nice!
don't be a lump, you can hump ENGINEER
hump - "humpy, humpy"
they're coming, Boss
(to TOURISTS)
ENGINEER
CLUB OWNER
girls! gee, isn't Bangkok really neat?
I'm depressed
Just get to work, half-breed!
DOORMEN ENGINEER
if you're looking for fun original sin
you said you'd fill my place up - where are they?
for a small extra fee ten cents an hour, that's all they pay
(to some TOURISTS)
CLUB OWNER (to two Japanese TOURISTS)
there's nothing as dead
I'll have to swim to the USA
ENGINEER
for hustling amours I got girls! the things they're selling on the street
to Japanese tours
ENGINEER
...screw the Siamese look how they're ripping off... refugees
hey, Joe, try taking a little excursion
you want a girl sir? you'll like one of these
DOORMEN hey, come to me!
you'll all feel good from a little perversion oh yeah!
(unfolding folders of photos)
massage requiring total immersion oh wow!
(to another PASSER-BY)
some strange positions they say are Persian oh no!
ENGINEER
JOHN you have a Kim here, can I see her please?
ENGINEER
DOORMEN if you're looking for fun
you pick 'em well. . . look what you'll see!
original sin
ENGINEER
if you want to put out
monsieur John, is that you?
drinks are on me ENGINEER
then you gotta come in
DOORMEN ENGINEER girls! hey boys, don't stand around like wimps I got girls! watch out, those guys, they're really pimps girls! you want some thrills, come-on and grab it!
first girl is free
JOHN
hey, that's a joke, mine blow smoke
what can I say? You get me
the Engineer!
for a small extra fee
for a small extra fee!
Jesus Christ! you're here too
VENDORS
(JOHN enters looking for KIM. The VENDORS surround him.)
ENGINEER
come try the streets in every venue with tricks, you'll pick from off the menu
of all my friends, you're the one that I miss
ENGINEER JOHN I'm looking for Kim
half the price! three girls, two gerbils, and a rabbit
ENGINEER TOURISTS
(handing a leaflet to John)
you leave it to me ENGINEER
listen, spare me the gas
I love you so, you and your buddy Chris
is there really a child?
just play little mother JOHN not in here, is there someplace near we could talk?
JOHN
ENGINEER JOHN
what I need to find out yes, we're blessed
I'm here about him
KIM
she can tell me alone
for citizenship, and I am her brother
(to one of the customers)
KIM can you take me to Chris?
JOHN
Take your hands off! We're finished! Go find someone else!
and Kim's on a trip Kim has a child born in...
BOTH seventy-five
you're her brother, my ass ENGINEER
come on, take me inside
I filled that out and it's you who arrive you'll find the end of your quest here in our little dive
I can leave here right now we've been here for so long
JOHN
took this job to survive
come with me, there's a lot I've got to say first
one month at sea
ENGINEER
I was sure we'd drown
look Kim, who got our application
but I thought about Chris KIM
I'm impressed
and we didn't go down I said I'd bring us all salvation
American clerks, a system that works
Chris is here! say he's here! oh my god, it's all true
I've done terrible things but we're safe and you're here
there's really no other
KIM ENGINEER
so perhaps all the gods
I suggest, whatever may be
have begun to forgive
oh my god! monsieur John! JOHN
yes, of course he sent you
CLUB OWNER
ENGINEER
did the gentleman order champagne?
look Uncle Sam
I have a job to do
my life has to go on here"
it's strange to find my work
Kim, let me finish talking, please
should lead me here to you how nice I am Chris knows all about you
that was three whole years ago
I doing all this just for Tam ENGINEER
I have shown him all this an American boy
she was about to get it
but I think that it's time
KIM
you know all about Chris
yes, yes I know
(KIM brings JOHN to her room and shows him TAM)
CLUB OWNER you better get back on the chain, or get out
KIM
I know how pain can grow KIM
when the rock you hold onto
please, don't you see that's all I live for?
is a love miles away, listen:
look John, this is his son KIM ENGINEER
I have him and nothing more don't they have the same the smile
monsieur John I'm so sick of that prick
he's been waiting for his father
at night, everything that's not him
look at this John look at your kid
take us to the USA
disappears behind my door
quick before he gets wise
please, I already know the story
JOHN for a long, long while
let
JOHN ** ** PLEASE
come see love see the lids of his eyes
please, he went crazy when he lost you
when we finish here, you'll see him Chris arrived with me today!
spoke to no one for a year come see Chris let John have his surprise
JOHN I'm not here as a friend
KIM then he finally said "I'm home now,
oh Tam! He's here!
he is here, he's so near
can I end this journey, can I end this journey
(as JOHN leaves) and bring him to me sir, would you like a massage?
we might breathe the same air tonight!
please? please?
your father's here
JOHN JOHN
KIM JOHN I dreamed so hard I can't tell her like this I kept my faith I should not be the one
I must bring Chris here to see you
ENGINEER CLUB OWNER
that guy is no one to trust
you can find boys at La Cage
or a soldier who's just learned he's fathered a son
** ** CHRIS IS HERE
you got to get to Chris first (CLUB OWNER leaves and the ENGINEER enters)
(CLUB OWNER enters, seeing TAM)
I will find his address now before he can run
ENGINEER
don't you see we've been in the files
CLUB OWNER
watched over? there's a woman in love
I thought I said, "no kids around"
as we crossed here
so what's that brat doing here
the wildest sea? what sustained her for miles
I don't know what I'll tell him first
no thanks, it's not my scene
there's only one thing I can do
and now it's true Chris must come see his son please, they don't say
my heart's ready to burst
where is he?
KIM
what is that look
you can trust what he'll do
he was right on the hook
don't you worry
don't tell me he slipped free
I'll mention you
KIM
ENGINEER
Engineer, Chris is here
don't screw with me little bitch
you better take care, I'm watching both of you you, and your Engineer
even god wants us together Chris still knows nothing of
John is going to get him
I don't want any hitch
we must journey to a new world
THUY
and I must be on my way
did you think I'd gone away
(KIM finds herself back in Saigon, April 1975)
this is the face you saw that day
you think your marine's not like other men
you just do as you're told you'll go to his hotel I'll be working as well guarding our bag of gold
staring at you with open eyes ENGINEER you're safe in the daylight
(CHRIS appears)
KIM
go on, tlak to your ghosts, little girl
but in the dark I rise
he betrayed you once
tell me where, and I'll go
'til you're blue
I'm the crime that you hid
and he will again
he is longing for me I know
you have one chance, just one
for you want yo forget that you killed, but you did!
think about that night
he's here
where was he back then you will never be free
(KIM picks up the picture of her parents)
talking to you not as long as there's me I'm on my way
you have brought me through the lightning you have watched me from afar (the ENGINEER leaves) you know all and you forgive me loving parents that you are
** ** KIM'S NIGHTMARE
please, let your daughter have your blessing on the life that starts today
CHRIS did you think you would escape the judgement that was planned?
I'm getting you out!
did you think you would escape the truth's avenging hand
CAPTAIN SCHULTZ
just because you have escaped the bound'ries of your land I'm here! I'm here! I'm never dead
(as the room darkens, the ghost of THUY appears)
sorry, sergeant, as things degenerate all I'm giving her is her emigration papers without the wait, sign here
I'm here! I am the guilt inside your head
CHRIS that's not good enough. . .
CAPTAIN SCHULTZ
SOLDIERS
CHRIS
by order of the old man
well at least Uncle Sam bought our honeymoon cruise
we're processing the gooks as fast as we can
this will get her on board the carrier you're declaring that you will marry her when you get back to the states, sign here
(CHRIS returns to the embassy)
DOC KIM CAPTAIN SCHULTZ
if you're going I don't want to stay
I mean Vietnamese, hey don't get me wrong can't leave these looks for the Cong - right?
sorry, sergeant, we must accelerate state department says we evacuate
CHRIS
the word is, we must be out by dawn
look I'm leaving my gun (a solider brings in KIM) we got time (The scene changes to the room of CHRIS and KIM)
CHRIS stay and pack
SOLDIERS
but my girl is out there!
by order of the old man the embassy will close according to plan
CHRIS
KIM
Christ, I am due at the embassy
well I will do whatever you say
REEVES sorry, sergeant, it's straight from Washington
no time to lose CAPTAIN SCHULTZ I'll stretch a couple rules to issue her pass
KIM
that's it, you're ready. nice ass. who's next?
I don't want you to leave me today
CHRIS
no one leaves the grounds now, not anyone
we'll get plenty of word when the VC attack
as fast as we load the planes, we're gone
I want you in that bed waiting when I get back
(a huge crowd of VIETNAMESE is pushing at the Embassy gates)
no one sees NOLAN
(to an OFFICER) I am lost here let me out, I have got to go back to my bride!
find me please
KIM
BOTH
listen, someone! My husband is waiting inside!
please, get me through, I don't care how
(entering) GIBBONS the Ambassador just sent an order to freeze (to the crowd) okay! Keep quiet! don't shout!
HUSTON
the Ambassador won't leave till everyone's out
that's it! No more Vietnamese! Get in!
don't take my love away, not now CHRIS
the choppers're on their way, there's room for you all (in the streets outside the Embassy, KIM can't get through the guards.) TROY
(telephoning, inside the Embassy yard) please Kim
they're climbing over the wall!
KIM
hear the phone
get back!
I'm the wife of a soldier
KIM CHRIS oh, Chris Kim
oh
I can't get free please get free
I can't get there please be home
still I'm with you am with you
please, let me through! MORE MARINES
help me, who must I pay?
get back! I tell you, don't shout
tell me what I must do
wait for me wait for me KIM FRYE
the Ambassador won't leave till everyone's out
(in the street) CHRIS please Chris (to CHRIS)
I
take my children! sorry sergeant, inside the Embassy! we are pulling out now and there will be
CROWD ANOTHER
there is no one to find here!
I have a letter, look!
they have left us behind here!
(inside the compound: MARINES guard the roof helipad.)
CHRIS
no more reprieves let me go, John, I can't leave her ANOTHER CHRIS
(KIM has pushed her way through the gate.)
I helped the CIA!
why in the world should I be saved instead of her?
I got till the old man leaves! KIM CROWD JOHN they'll kill who they find here!
CROWD I must get in there, listen, anyone!
they'll kill who they find here!
Chris, don't be a ass don't leave us behind here! the Ambassador is leaving now
please tell my husband... look! I have his gun!
A VIETNAMESE
don't leave us behind here!
JOHN A VIETNAMESE
(CHRIS is forced inside the Embassy, whose doors are then barricaded.
I've a wife who left already!
The VIETNAMESE are now yelling through the Embassy gates.)
ANOTHER
out of my way, if that's all that you've got!
I have an aunt in New York!
and if some dreams get smashed, perhaps it's best they were CROWD if I am here when they come, I'll be shot!
ONE VIETNAMESE
ANOTHER
take me with you!
I have gold, I can pay!
it's not you, it's the war that's cruel
CROWD and KIM there is no one to find here! they have left us behind here!
is here with me
how in one night have we come so far
my heart, against all odds JOHN
outside, day starts to dawn holds still
wake up, my friend, your mercy trip has failed
one long night time is gone
(KIM runs through the city of Bangkok to CHRIS'S hotel, as CHRIS and JOHN travel throughout the city to find her.)
I feel you near there's nothing you can do, that ship has sailed she's not the only one we'll have betrayed
(on the Embassy roof, the last helicopter lands. CHRIS runs up and down
I cry no more ** ** ROOM 317 I know you're here
the wall, shouting for KIM. Finally he is forced to board the helicopter,
I reach your door (A hotel room) and our love is reborn!
CROWD get to the roof, or else we are betrayed!
which takes off. The nightmare passes. KIM is in her little room with
bright'ning the sky KIM with the flame
TAM.)
good evening, maam of love
(the CROWD tries to batter down the fences.)
made of sunlight (KIM takes out her wedding dress and puts it on)
ELLEN moonlight don't turn the bed yet
KIM KIM
ENGINEER
you are sunlight and I moon
Kim! Kim! Chris isat this hotel! Go quickly!
I'm not the maid
KIM
ELLEN
take care of Tam!
what do you want then?
KIM (in the yard) joined by the gods of fortune oh, Chris midnight and high noon I still believe that's what we are the heart of you
he says he tried to reach you, but what could he do? KIM ELLEN they must have written the room number wrong I am looking for someone named Christopher Scott three-seventeen, oh I'm sorry... unless well, you must be, of course, you're John's wife, are you not?
in a way, I am glad I am meeting you first understand, you were only a name till tonight I don't know how I'd feel if our roles were reversed
KIM KIM
oh yes, Madame
please tell me you're not married
my son is Chris's
you don't know, you can't know what I've done to be here
I had a dream for my son to belong and not live his life in the streets like a rat
please won't you sit down ELLEN ELLEN KIM
ELLEN
you don't know how he needed a new start
tell me you are lying
we aren't rich, but we'll shoulder our load
oh God, I see it had to happen
KIM
Chris and I are totally together on that
ELLEN you must be Kim Chris went to find you
I feel walls in my heart we've been married a year, I am sorry, it's true
please come inside no one will hurt you
KIM
I'm Chris's wife
he said he'd come to get me
closing in
KIM
I can't breathe
then you must take Tam with you
I can't win ELLEN
my name is Ellen
ELLEN ELLEN
(KIM doesn't move)
as for the child you say it's Chris's
take a child from his mother, impossible Kim
KIM
if you're saying that because you've made him change his mind
** ** NOW THAT I'VE SEEN HER
you will take Tam with you then he'll get what I wanted for him
part of him still lingers there Chris must go away and leave me and his son behind if you're saying that because my husband has another wife
it's alright it's alright when you can just imagine there's no face, she's not real
ELLEN
my child has no future, like the dust of life
but Kim, your child needs you Chris is married to me, we want kids of our own
in the heat that filled the air
he must come tonight to my place
and you can tell yourself it's all okay
I know what pain her life today must be but if it all comes down to her or me I don't care, I swear, I'll fight now that I've seen her
but she's here she's more than a name
tell me so to my face KIM
and my heart cries this isn't happening
I don't hate this girl even so
but the truth is cold and real
now that I've seen her
and I know this storm won't go away
I can't stay the same
(KIM exits) Tam's chance lies with you now, not with me ELLEN
now that I've seen her
who's this man that I always trusted?
BOTH
I don't want this
there's no way to hide
now I have to know
no!
I didn't come here
she is not some fling
can't you see
to meet a girl
from long ago
it won't work
who loves my husband
now that I've seen her
it can't be
I came here to help, but what do I do?
I know why he lied
now, after this, what do I . . .
** 0 ** THE CONFRONTATION
(CHRIS and JOHN return) and I think it was better when I didn't know
KIM in her eyes, in her voice
CHRIS
don't you see, she still thinks she's married to you
we could not find her anywhere CHRIS honey, what's wrong? it was just two weeks, that was years ago
or me?
you must tell her she's not, she must hear it and soon CHRIS 'course that only depends if it's true
let me tell you the way it was
ELLEN Kim was here
JOHN
the one who had to tell her was me
nothing's changed for her
back when I was a different man CHRIS please don't doubt me Ellen: you're my wife
ELLEN JOHN
lots of guys came back and had no life
don't explain oh, my God, it's my fault
that kept me there in Vietnam
there's nothing you can say
there in the shambles of a war
it's like she's gone insane
I found what I was looking for ELLEN
she tried to give away her own child
you can say what you want but she's borne you a son in your nightmares the name that you shouted was hers
ELLEN no, I think it's exactly what I had to see
JOHN she wants your son to be an American boy
you said you lived with her, that's all you were
Saigon was crazed, but she was real and for one moment, I could feel I saw a world I never knew
you've been with me two years and not shared things you've done don't hold back
ELLEN only one thing you left out is that you loved her
the feelings locked behind a dam
I had you
CHRIS I knew we were gone too long!
back when I didn't have a clue who I am
and through her eyes I suffered too in spite of all the things that were
let me see I started to believe in her is it her now
so I wanted to save her, protect her
is you you
is
Christ, I'm American, how could I fail to do good?
I won't abandon him except that, Jesus Christ, John
all I made was a mess, just like everyone else
JOHN
there is also Kim
now listen guys
what of her?
ELLEN JOHN I think this is the answer Listen, you didn't see what's
in a place full of mystery that I never once understood!
in that
it's not so easy
girl's head
there is this kid
ELLEN
I wanted back a world I knew who looks just like you
if it was only Tam
the story of my life began again
hey, I think it's great
I'd take him now
with you
you have each other
he is your son
but he exists
we'd make it work somehow
you have to face it
but Chris, she still loves you
ELLEN CHRIS
CHRIS AND ELLEN JOHN for now this is the answer I hope you are both proud of what you've just said
I run a camp that is filled with bui-doi
it's all right now, oh Ellen, I should have told you
looking for the fathers that they may never find
that's all through will you ever trust me
how can I have her near? ELLEN CHRIS it's done
you don't have a complicated choice with this boy
we'll get past this, start anew again? all I want I have
all
in my life my life now
in
there's no choice I think the answer's clear
do you want to take him out or leave him behind?
CHRIS they'll have to stay in Bangkok
it's done
we'll support them here CHRIS CHRIS AND ELLEN he's my son
it's planned
your voice sings in my ear you will take Tam with you
the girl is smart
ENGINEER you can betray what we were yesterday
she'll understand CHRIS AND ELLEN
but you'll come back tonight for him
we'll provide for their needs
yes, papers, what's the situation? we'll need our cards for immigration
KIM JOHN (walking around the streets of Bangkok)
(KIM returns to the bar. THE ENGINEER comes out with TAM.)
you are talking like fools!
no tricks, I've got my reputation don't want no phony complications
you must take Tam with you ENGINEER KIM CHRIS AND ELLEN in Bangkok, he will go to American schools
you won't forget Tam is a part of you
KIM come on, come on, your recitation
no, no
describe your reconciliation
he's coming to us tonight
I hope before his stimulation
pack your things
he bought our little group vacation
get yourself arranged
CHRIS, ELLEN, JOHN we will
KIM
(you should) do what is right
I won't break my promise to my son
right for him
while I change for my last performance
right for us
KIM
right for Kim
in all his dreams he saw our baby
CHRIS AND ELLEN
ENGINEER me, Chris and you
they will start a new life
and he's teaching him to fly KIM
what a menage! paper dragons in the sky
I still taste your kisses KIM
Bangkok can screw!
bon voyage!
** 1 ** THE AMERICAN DREAM
ENGINEER
with dollars pouring down like rain?
fat, like a chocolate eclair
businessmen never rob banks
as you suck out the cream
bald people think they'll grow hair
you can sell shit and get thanks
luck by the tail
the American dream
how can you fail?
call girls are lining time square
that's what I learned from the Yanks
the American dream
and best of all, it's for sale the American dream
my father was a tattoo artist in Haiphong but his designs on mother didn't last too long
I'm fed up with small-time hustles I'm too good to waste my talent for greed
my mother sold her body, high on Betel nuts
I need room to flex my muscles
my job was bringing redfaced monsieurs to our huts
in an ocean where the big sharks feed
selling your mom is a wrench
make me Yankee, they're my fam'ly
perfume can cover a stench that's what I learned from the French
they're selling what people need
the American dream greasy chinks make life so sleazy
the American dream in the States I'll have a club that's four-starred
cars that have bars take you there
men like me there have things easy
the American dream
they have a lawyer and a body-guard
on stage each night: Fred Astaire
to the Johns there I'll sell blondes there
the American dream shlitz down the drain!
that they can charge on a card what's that I smell in the air
then it all changed with Dien Bien Phu
bums there have money to spare
pop the Champagne! what's that I smell in the air?
the American dream
it's time we all entertain the American dream
the frogs went home. Who came? Guess who?
sweet as a new millionaire
my American dream! sweet as a suite in Bel-air
the American dream are you surprised we went insane
the American dream pre-packed, ready-to-wear
ENGINEER and CROWD girls can buy tits by the pair
the American dream
come ev'ryone, come and share
ALL
you're still mine
the American dream!
but I can't go along
the American dream
CHRIS don't be sad
name what you want and it's there the American dream
Kim! Kim! (CHRIS, JOHN and ELLEN enter. THE ENGINEER takes them to see KIM and TAM.)
spend and have money to spare
though I'm far away I'll be watching you this is the hour
** 2 ** FINALE
(CHRIS picks up KIM and cradles her in his arms.)
I swore I'd see
the American dream I alone can tell now
CHRIS
what the end will be
what have you done, Kim? Why?
live like you haven't a care the American dream
(In KIM'S room she has dressed TAM in his best clothes.)
what other place can compare the American dream
they think they'll decide your life no, it will be me
KIM
look at me one last time
the gods have guided you to your son
KIM come and get more than your share
now Tam, my brave boy
the American dream
our long wait has ended
don't forget what you see one more kiss smile Tam
CHRIS and then say goodbye
ENGINEER
for you have a father at last
there I will crown
he has come
Miss Chinatown
to take you home
all yours for ten percent down
all I dreamed for you he'll do
please don't die (THE ENGINEER comes in and takes TAM to CHRIS. KIM prays before the shrine of her parents, blows out the candles and disappears behind the bed curtain. A gunshot. KIM's body falls to the floor.)
KIM hold me one more time
(CHRIS holds her)
KIM
how in one night have we come... so far
(KIM'S embrace becomes lifeless. CHRIS sobs, holding her.)
THE CURTAIN FALLS
END ACT II
