South Pacific

South Pacific, composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein premiered in 1949 on Broadway and ran for 1,925 performances. It is one of the classic twentieth century American musicals.  It is a staple of many community theatre companies and I have seen several productions but thanks to the enthusiasm, energy and performance quality of the WLOS cast and production team the production was fresh and very enjoyable.

At the heart of the show is the relationship between Ensign Nellie Forbush and Emile de Becque “the Frenchman” and this was a great strength of this production.  Jo Dewberry brought a lightness, innocence and sense of fun to Nellie along with great characterisation as the relationship with Emile developed through the evening.  Sean Curtis, who I last saw in Mansfield’s South Pacific in the same role, once again drove the storyline and ably portrayed both the vulnerability and strength of a man who has seen some tragedy in life and must now risk all again for love.  

Although the central relationship is critical, a production of South Pacific stands or falls on the quality of Lt Cable, Liat, Bloody Mary, the male chorus (Officers, sailors Seabees and Marines) and female chorus (Nurses & Islanders).   Kris Denman was one of the funniest, most enthusiastic Luther Billises I have seen, commanding the stage, but also sympathetic to the performances of his fellow actors.  Stefan Denman was a very believable Lt Cable and managed the vocal range very well with only the occasional need to use “head voice”.  Theresa Stafford provided a nicely judged Bloody Mary who portrayed the tragic as well as the overtly comedic elements of her character.  Tara Goodall, Graham Berridge and Ian Ibbotson supported the action to great effect and the Seabees, Nurses, Islanders and Dancers were on fine form with two highlights being the most effective “There is nothing Like a Dame” and “I’m gonna wash that man right out of my hair” I have seen in many a year.  

The production team should be congratulated for this performance.  Andrea once again created a great show with believable characters and staging.   The dance numbers were sympathetic to the action thanks to the work of Jacqui Turner and the vocal performances were excellent thanks to the work Peter Lack must have put into the rehearsal period.  In addition, his command of the orchestra ensured that there was a excellent balance between voice and orchestration throughout.  Lighting, costuming, makup and set all added to the experience with speedy set changes adding to the overall effect.

Congratulations to all and I very much look forward to seeing you again.

Martin Holtom

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