Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York is a heartfelt 2019 musical featuring a brilliant score and a talented cast. The story follows Dougal (Sam Tutty), an optimistic Brit who travels to New York City for his father’s wedding. There, he meets Robin (Christiani Pitts), the bride’s sister, and the pair set off across the city completing wedding errands. Although the show had only a limited West End run (with hopes for a return), its recent cast album release offers the perfect opportunity to revisit and rank all 14 songs.
14: The Hangover Duet
After an eventful night out, Robin and Dougal wake up and try to piece together what happened. While the song is enjoyable, it doesn’t stand out against the stronger ballads and is not one I return to often.
13: Under the Mistletoe
A playful Christmas number led by Dougal, with Robin adding a more sarcastic edge. Pitts and Tutty blend well vocally and the song fully embraces its festive tone.
12: On the App
Dougal encourages Robin to try online dating. This upbeat and humorous take on modern relationships is more memorable than some lower-ranked tracks.
11: Dad
A reflective and emotional song in which Dougal considers what meeting his father might mean for his sense of identity. It’s well written and carries a bittersweet tone, often revisiting to sing along too.
10: Dearly Beloved
Set in a restaurant, Robin and Dougal improvise a mock wedding. The song builds from a slower opening into a lively, almost swinging number, contributing to the resolution of their relationship.
9: American Express
After a full day in New York, the pair decide to embrace the “American dream.” This number is energetic, lively and one of the show’s most recognisable songs: adding a little bit of fun before the interval!
8: This Is the Place
Robin introduces Dougal to the neighbourhood she grew up in, reflecting on its significance. The fast-paced structure works well and Dougal’s enthusiastic contributions add charm to the moment as he notices the locations.
7: Be Happy
Robin reflects on the pressure of being told to “be happy” without knowing how to achieve it. Stripped back and introspective, the song offers a resonant commentary on identity and emotional expectations.
6: About to Go In
Standing outside his father’s wedding venue, Dougal prepares for their first meeting. While talking with his mother, he begins to reassess what his father means to him. This marks a key emotional turning point in Dougal’s journey.
5: New York
The opening number captures Dougal’s excitement at arriving in the city. His belief that New York is where he belongs drives the song, and Tutty’s vocals are enhanced with subtle changes from the West End version: bring fresh energy.
4: He Doesn’t Exist
Robin challenges Dougal’s image of his father, suggesting that the version he believes in may not be real. This moment powers the conflict between them as the story moves towards its conclusion with Pitts delivering a particularly strong vocal performance.
3: What’ll It Be
Robin questions the direction of her life and whether she is destined to repeat the same patterns. With lyrical revisions and a powerful vocal performance from Pitts, this version feels more complete and emotionally impactful than the West End version.
2: This Year
Robin’s emotional peak comes as she reflects on the year ahead and the changes she hopes to make. Pitts delivers a standout performance which combines clarity and strength to elevate the song to peak musical theatre.
1: If I Believed
The show concludes with this powerful duet as Robin and Dougal reflect on how their journey has shaped them. Both Tutty and Pitt’s voices blend seamlessly which creates a moving and satisfying finale.
Max
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