Urge For Going: The Joni Mitchell Jukebox Musical

Act One: Scene Two

SD: The scene changes to Joni in her bed with her arms crossed. She feels now that her doctor mentioned polio.. maybe she is feeling a little under the weather.

k: hello, how are you feeling today?

j: wait, who are you, why are you in my room?

k: i've been ordered to stay in your house to teach you all the things you should be learning in school while you're sick. i also would like to help keep you company!

j: i don't know if i'm interested. could you just let me rest? i feel my body getting even weaker, i'm sure if you helped me up to walk i would collapse to the ground.

k: that's why i'm here, what interests you roberta?

j: first of all, don't call me by my name, i don't know you.

SD: Her teacher walks around the room, touching the walls and staring at her artwork

k: you are a very talented artist... do you know how much potential you hold?

j: i don't know. whatever. i just do it to pass the time while ignoring my mother.

k: i make art as well. maybe while i'm here to help you i could help improve your craft!

j: i don't need improving but thank you i suppose.

SD: The lights now shine on Myrtles part of the house with the window

m: F, d, f, d. i know that girl is sick but why is she doing so poorly in her schooling? i sent you here to teach her!

k: i've tried to help her! she despises me. all she wants to do is paint and write, but i think you should do a better job of supporting her art

m: i cant let her continue. if she decides this is her passion, she'll grow to be dirt poor! i'm not helping her either. it will be all her fault.

k: myrtle i understand.. but i just want to help you to relate to your daughter. she does nothing all day now. she can't walk or use her arms properly. you must have some sympathy for her.

SD: The scene cuts back to Jonis room

k: i know you don't want to see me, but i have a gift for you

j: okay... this better be good.

SD: Joni opens it...

j: a guitar? how am i supposed to use this with my fingers so beaten? this must be a joke.

k: just trust me... i got you this instructional book whenever you're ready

(he leaves the room and joni starts looking at the guitar more, looks around and tries to strum it quietly)

j: i dont get it, he must have been making fun of me

SD: Joni gets more curious about her guitar as her teacher leaves the room, and starts playing with it a little... She then sings:
(both sides now)