The Ballad of Sara Berry

The song 'The Ballad of Sara Berry' from '35mm: A Musical Exhibition' is a darkly comedic and tragic narrative that explores the destructive nature of obsession and the pressures of societal expectations. The lyrics tell the story of Sara Berry, a high school senior who is determined to be crowned prom queen at any cost. Sara is initially portrayed as the epitome of high school success—popular, beautiful, and wealthy. However, her obsession with winning the prom queen title leads her down a path of madness and violence.

The song uses vivid and often gruesome imagery to depict Sara's descent into insanity. When her rival, Julie Jenkins, gains sympathy votes after losing a leg in an accident, Sara's desperation intensifies. The lyrics detail Sara's increasingly irrational and violent actions, culminating in a series of murders of her classmates, each represented by a letter in the word 'PROM QUEEN.' This macabre twist highlights the extreme lengths to which Sara will go to achieve her goal, ultimately leading to her downfall.

The narrative also serves as a critique of the high school social hierarchy and the immense pressure placed on young people to conform to certain ideals of success and popularity. Sara's father's advice that 'life is a prom' underscores the unrealistic expectations and the toxic culture of competition that can drive individuals to extreme behavior. The song ends with Sara being restrained in a mental institution, still clinging to her delusional belief that she is the 'queen of high school land,' a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and societal pressure.

'35mm: A Musical Exhibition' is known for its unique blend of storytelling and music, often exploring dark and complex themes through a contemporary lens. 'The Ballad of Sara Berry' is a prime example of this, using a catchy, upbeat melody to contrast with the dark and disturbing narrative, creating a powerful and memorable piece of musical theater.