Charity Concert / The Art of the Possible (feat. Jonathan Pryce, Antonio Banderas & Madonna)

The song 'Charity Concert / The Art of the Possible' from the musical 'Evita' is a rich tapestry of political and personal dynamics, set against the backdrop of a charity event. The lyrics, performed by Jonathan Pryce, Antonio Banderas, and Madonna, delve into the complexities of power, ambition, and public perception. The song opens with Magaldi, a character who represents the old guard of Argentine entertainment, serenading Eva Duarte with romantic imagery. This sets the stage for a contrast between personal ambition and public service.

Eva Duarte, who later becomes Eva Perón, is depicted as a figure whose ambitions are clear from the start. Her interaction with Magaldi is tinged with a sense of familiarity and perhaps disdain, indicating her desire to move beyond her past associations. This is further emphasized by Perón's speech, where he positions himself as a servant of the people, highlighting the importance of public support and the illusion of power being in the hands of the populace. This speech is a masterclass in political rhetoric, designed to galvanize support while subtly reinforcing his own authority.

Che, the narrator and a critical voice throughout the musical, provides a cynical commentary on the nature of politics. His lines, 'One always picks the easy fight / One praises fools, one smothers light / One shifts from left to right / Politics, the art of the possible,' encapsulate the manipulative and often hypocritical nature of political maneuvering. Che's perspective serves as a counterpoint to the more idealistic or self-serving views of the other characters, grounding the narrative in a more realistic, albeit pessimistic, view of political life.