Starlight Express

Act One

Late in the evening, a child is playing with his toy trains. He takes the role of “Control” and sets up a championship race to decide which of his trains is “the fastest in the world”. While he is playing, he falls asleep. But in his dreams, the championship begins…

Control introduces the engines: Ruhrgold (a German intercontinental express), Turnov (a Trans-Siberian Express from Russia), Nintendo (a Bullet Train from Japan), the Prince of Wales (a “frightfully British” Royal Train) (“Rolling Stock”), and the reigning champion from the USA Greaseball (“Rolling Stock”). After a pause the Control reports that due to a delay on Network Rail, the Prince of Wales is late and will not be competing. Next to arrive is Rusty, a steam train. He is mocked by Greaseball, who reminds him of steam’s inferiority compared to diesel. However, Rusty is adamant nonetheless that he will win the championship (“Call Me Rusty”). Control then calls on the Coaches to identify themselves. They are