Teacher Panic is a dynamic and humorous musical number that captures the whirlwind of emotions experienced by the new teacher, Mr. Johnson, as he faces his first day in the classroom. With a catchy tune and amusing lyrics, the song explores less well-known themes of a teacher’s life including the occasional panic attacks sometimes suffered before a lesson. Lurking in the hallways, the Thug Boys taunt the new teacher who begins to melt down at his overwhelming fear of entering the classroom. The scene’s comedic element provides a daunting backdrop for Mr. Johnson’s entry into his new teaching career.
The song opens in a bustling school environment filled with the vibrant energy of students and teachers moving to and from their classes. As the first bell rings, the atmosphere quickly shifts to one of urgency and anticipation as Mr. Johnson, tightly clutching his attendance sheet, becomes the narrative’s focal point. His own anxieties reflect the hopes and fears felt by so many educators on the first day of class. (And the students think they’re the nervous ones!)
Mr. Johnson’s opening lines reflect his sense of panic:
MR. JOHNSON
OH ME, OH MY, WHAT SHALL I SAY?
CAN I DO THIS JOB TODAY?
The heart-thumping phrase, “Teacher Panic,” repeated throughout the song captures the worrisome nature of the moment, a theme familiar to anyone who has had to grapple with self-doubt and uncertainty due to a new situation suddenly thrust upon them.
As the song’s intensity builds, Mr. Johnson’s panic is palpable. He recalls the hard work and dedication that led him to this point, but now wonders if he should regret his decision to teach on the other side of the country so far away from his own dear New York City.
MR. JOHNSON
COULD I HAVE BEEN MISTAKEN?
SHOULD I THIS JOB HAVE TAKEN?
In the end though, his internal struggles transform into a firm resolve to overcome his fears and face the situation bravely as he approaches his classroom door beckoning him at the end of the hallway. He knows he must do the best he can for those who are waiting for him and counting on him. Summoning up his courage, he slowly opens the classroom door that will lead him to his destiny.
