[ELLIE]
Why do stage struck maidens clamor
To be actin' in the drammer?

[GIRLS]
We've heard say
You are gay
Night and day

[ELLIE]
Oh, go away

[GIRLS]
We drink water from a dipper
You drink champagne from a slipper

[ELLIE]
Though it seems
Crool to bust
All your dreams
Still, I must
Here's the truth I tell you:

(Refrain)
Life upon the wicked stage ain't ever what a girl supposes
Stage-door Johnnies aren't raging over you with gems and roses
When you let a feller hold your hand (which
Means an extra beer or sandwich)
Everyone whispers, "Ain't her life a whirl?"
Though you're warned against a roue ruining your reputation
I have played around the one night trade around a great big nation
Wild old men who give you jewels and sables
Only live in Aesop's fables
Life upon the wicked stage ain't nothin' for a girl

[GIRLS]
Though we've listened to you moan and grieve, you
Must pardon us if we do not believe you
There is no doubt you're
Crazy about your art

[ELLIE]
I admit it's fun to smear my face with paint
Causing everyone to think I'm what I ain't
And I like to play a demi-mondy role- with soul!
Ask the hero does he like the way I lure
When I play a hussy or a paramour;
Yet when once the curtain's down my life is pure-
And how I dread it!

[GIRLS]
(Refrain)
Life upon the wicked stage ain't ever what a girl supposes
Stage-door Johnnies aren't raging over you with gems and roses
[ELLIE]
If some gentleman would talk with reason
I would cancel all next season-
Life upon the wicked stage ain't nothin' for a girl

[GIRLS]
You'll be back the season after