By Demi Rose
In a classical setting of the St. George Opera House, St. George Musical Theater in St. George, Utah presents an evening of nightingale voices and a deep appreciation for golden age musical theater where-in the musical South Pacificis properly portrayed byDirector/Music Director Norm Lister and choreographer Ami Gent. What the audience will most appreciate is the dedication and care both Lister and Gentput into showing the cultures accurately through pre-show videos, dance, and time-period (1949) that makes South Pacific so poignant and relevant to today.
South Pacific takes place in World War II in the South Pacific where young and unabashed Nellie Forbush (Rachel Cox) has a heart full of love for a much older but distinguished, Emile De Becque (Robert Simmons). Simmon’s Becque is easy to fall in love with because he is a relatable and humble character. His first song with Cox, “Twin Soliloquies” is just lovely. What is perhaps even more enthralling than the whimsical state of mind Simmons brings is how these two complement the performance. Cox’s shy, coquettish demeanor is charming. What is certain in the first few minutes of South Pacific is a promise of an enchanted evening of accomplished and well-honed vocalists.
While Simmons (Emile) and Cox(Nellie) are the stars of the show, this cast of South Pacific was well-thought out and leaves nothing to be desired. Each performer interweaves with our leading roles in a way that does not overshadow but gives compliment to the enrapturing storyline South Pacific possesses.
What arguably shows the greatest strength of the entire cast are the hilarious numbers, “There Is Nothing Like a Dame”, “Bali Ha’I”, “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair”, and “Honey Bun”. Each ensemble member can be heard well yet are not overbearing. There is no weak link among the cast who finish off each piece crisply and in unison.
Conversely, the two much loved comedic allies that sing in some of the listed musical numbers are played by Mele Morgan (Bloody Mary) and Dustin Davis (Luther Billis). It is difficult to be side tracked when either Morgan or Davis is onstage as the vibrant duo play off of each other. Morgan’s Mary is eccentric, thrifty, and infectious, whilst Davis’s Billis is a dreamer, a quirky hopeless romantic. These two are perfect combo of opposites to draw in the audience.
While the comedy is thriving in South Pacific, there are somber notes throughout the show. Classism and and racism is evidenced in Nellie and Emile’s romance, and also in Lt. Joseph Cable (Andrew Evans) and Liat’s (Aleina Lister) love story. Cable’s “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught” shows social classism for Nellie and Lt. Joseph Cable– they were taught: don’t fall in love or marry outside of your class. A recurring theme in South Pacific presents the dilemma—does one follow one’s dream and heart or to follow your upbringing, racist and classist though it may be?
St. George Musical Theater has a marvelous cast supported by their expert technical crew. The production is esthetically stunning Costume Designer Staci Martin, Lighting Designer Jennifer D. Roberts, Projection Design Angela Naylor, Set Design/Props Masters Emili Whitney and Donnie Clements, and Hair/Makeup Design Kristileigh Delatorre create a lovely panorama of sight, sound and design. Every detail of the costuming, lighting, and set is simple, tasteful, and complementary.
Come see St. George Musical Theater’s South Pacific. We are (hopefully) in a society where we strive to be kinder and more tolerant and caring to all. This show resonates as we can self-reflect and see how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go. South Pacific’s messages are true today and give the audience equal opportunity to laugh and cry.
St. George Musical Theater presents South Pacific, music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. Book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan, adapted from Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener.
St. George Musical Theater, 212 North Main Street, St. George, Utah 84770
June 24 – July 24, 2021 Monday, Thursday – Saturday 7:30 PM, Saturday matinees on July 3, 10, 17 2PM
Tickets: $23
Contact: 435-628-8755, tickets@sgmusicaltheater.com
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