What Could Be Sweeter: Act 3: It’s Almost Closing Time

The children and some of the other usual customers have gathered in the store. “What can we do?” they exclaim. It’s almost closing time and there isn’t enough money to keep the shop open. Some of the customers suggest staging a protest and getting the entire community behind the Elkin's Candy Shop, but the Elkins don't want to cause trouble.

Several of the neighborhood children come rushing into the shop carrying a jar of coins. It's enough money to buy a case of candy, but they were hoping it would be enough to save the whole store. "Children, the debt we owe is far too great for any of us to pay," the Elkin's explain, while charging their customers to have faith--God is in control. "When Mr. Rouge comes, please be kind," Mr. Elkin implores them. Mr. & Mrs. Elkin are sad, but they have a long history that demonstrates God’s care for them. They begin handing out candy and sharing their last moments with some of their special customers and friends.

Just outside the door, Mr. Rouge appears. He is prepared to dampen the Christmas holiday by announcing the close of the candy shop. However, as he is about to enter the store, Barnaby stops him and pulls a wad of cash out of his pocket. Rouge’s eyes get huge as he counts the bills. It’s far more than the Elkin’s need to keep their store. After Rouge’s accusations that Barnaby is a thief, Barnaby explains that this money was given to him by countless passer-byers over many years. He didn’t earn it—it was given to him as a gift, a FREE gift, much like his salvation. He’s been waiting for this moment to give it away. All that he has is the Lord’s, he explains, and he’s seen the testimony of the Elkin’s and the affect of the Candy Shoppe on this community. “The debt has been paid,” he says. (Everything freezes except Barnaby and Mr. Elkin. SONG: A Debt too Great) At the end of the song Barnaby takes one last look in the candy store before walking away with all of his belongings.

Rouge abruptly enters the store. He delivers the news that the debt as been paid and the store will remain open for business. He is confused and slightly disturbed by the news he bears. "I guess it's your lucky day," he exclaims as he turns to leave. "Blessed Day, Mr. Rouge. Oh, we're very blessed indeed," retorts Mr. Elkin. The customers and the Elkins celebrate the Lord's provision. (SONG: What Could Be Sweeter-Reprise; Joy to the World)

Outside the store, Rouge sits on Barnaby's bench and considers what happened. During the celebration inside, two of the children who scoffed at him in Act 1 approach Rouge and ask for forgiveness. They invite him to come back in the store and be with everyone else. Rouge sends the boys away, but moments later decides to swallow his pride and join the others. He is welcomed back into the store with humility and gratitude from the others.