“South Pacific” was another show from the popular team of Rodgers and Hammerstein, based on stories from James Michener’s book “Tales of the South Pacific.” In the South Pacific during the second World War, nurse Nellie Forbush has fallen in love with plantation owner Emile de Becque, but when she discovers that he has two children by his first wife who was Polynesian she must confront her own prejudices. When Emile goes on a mission behind enemy lines Nellie must decide if her love for Emile can overcome her fears. A second love story involving an army lieutenant and a young Polynesian woman continues the themes of overcoming prejudice to find love.
“South Pacific” opened on Broadway in 1949 and ran for nearly 2000 performances. It won the Pulitzer Prize for drama and starred Mary Martin and Ezio Pinza. A film version followed in 1958. The show contains some of the most well-known and popular songs in musical theatre history, including “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Bali Ha’i,” “A Wonderful Guy,” “There is Nothing Like a Dame,” and “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of my Hair,” among many others.
G.S.S. presented “South Pacific” in 1985.
