I'm In Love...with a Wonderful Show!Not since South Pacific's first opening in 1949 has this beloved musical graced the Broadway Musical stage, until 2008. It's an oldie...but definitely a goodie as Broadway audiences and critics are agreeing. I personally love this musical. I've seen several Regional Productions and was privileged to play Bloody Mary in a production years ago. It can be somewhat corny to some, but if you love the WWII era and classic musicals, South Pacific is one of the absolute best.
Tony!Tony! Tony!
At the 2008 Tony Awards, South Pacific won seven Tonys and has been playing to sold-out houses since the first preview in March 2008. Laura Osnes and David Pittsinger are the new leads and head a marvelous cast of 40 directed by Tony winner Bartlett Sher.
South Pacific has a wonderful score. The songs include Some Enchanted Evening, Younger Than Springtime, Bali Ha'i, There Is Nothin' Like A Dame, and A Wonderful Guy . While it has many elements of comedy and romance, it is also a very moving drama (when it's done well) and charms new generations time and time again. Its fine portrayal of Americans stationed in a foreign culture in wartime is as relevant today as when it first entertained audiences in 1949.
Regional Offerings
Two years ago I saw an outdoor production of South Pacific that was wonderful overall but lacked in some areas - mainly the chemistry between Nellie and Emille. But, the spectacle of the outdoor Amphitheatre in Southern Utah added to the productions appeal, especially the water element that was cleverly added by the director. Tuacahn Amphitheatrein Ivins, Utah has the ability to flood the stage. Each night, the director provided a "From Here to Eternity" moment with Liat and the Lieutenant as they played in the surf and sang "Younger than Springtime". It was very unique and effective.
Back to Broadway
It looks like Kelli O'Hara, who originated the role of Nellie Forbush in the Broadway production, is on maternity leave and will return to South Pacific in October2009. Paulo Szot, who won the Tony for his performance, is on leave to star in a production of Carmen for Opera Toulouse. He returns on Tuesday, April 14.
I hope this Broadway Revival "revives" some interest in new generations and brings some memories and nostalgia to the old. South Pacific is definitely a favorite of mine that will continue having me whistle, "I'm gonna wash that man right outta my hair.." for years to come.
Tickets to Rodgers & Hammerstein's South Pacific, priced $75 to $125, are available at the Vivian Beaumont Theater box office (150 W. 65 Street), at telecharge.com, or by visiting www.lct.org.
The Broadway Musical Nut
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