MARIE

(by Laura Berkson)


She stands in her room, 
  she looks in the mirror
    tries the gown on

This one is special, 
  the one she picked out
    for the senior prom

But there won't be a boy 
  on her arm taking her out 
    to dance

Her ticket is one in a 
  million and she's takin' 
    the chance

	Waltz her around the floor, Marie
	You're dancing for all that you believe

	The judge says your presence 
	  won't harm all the others
	    Who stand on the sidelines to see

	So waltz her around the floor, oh, Marie

Two young women companions 
  took their case from Salinas 
    High School to court

Related their story 
  and waited for the judge's 
    report

He said "This ticket's for couples, 
  and as far as I can see
    a couple's two people 
      and we don't check ID,
        so, go on to your dance, 
          let the school deal with me

Take her on out, Marie"

	Waltz her around the floor, Marie
	You're dancing for all that you believe

	The judge says your presence 
	  won't harm all the others
	    Who stand on the sidelines to see

	So waltz her around the floor, oh, Marie

The crepe paper's hung, 
  the music's begun
    the crowd's coming in

Two women walk 
  arm-in-arm down the path 
    to the gym

And they walk through the door
  just as proud as can be
    Steph in a gown 
      and a tux on Marie
        and they both wear orchids
          and they know they'll each lead

Steppin' out, Stephanie and Marie

	Waltz her around the floor, Marie
	You're dancing for all that you can be

	The judge says your presence 
	  won't harm all the others
	    Who stand on the sidelines to see

	So waltz her around and around and around
	Yes, waltz her around and around and around
	You'll win all the dance contests, take her on down, Marie

recording: Laura Berkson [Queer Music Heritage]

recording: Hollie Near & Ronnie Gilbert [Queer Music Heritage]

notes: Gay & Lesbian Prom Songs [Queer Music Heritage]