Provided by the Guthrie Theater (Photos by T Charles Erickson)
The Guthrie Theater announces its production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific, adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener and directed by Joseph Haj. Described as one of the greatest musicals of the 20th century, this production soars onto the Wurtele Thrust Stage for the first time in Guthrie history.
One of the most celebrated musicals in American theater, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is a treasure trove of memorable songs from “Bali Hai” to “There is Nothin’ Like a Dame” to “Some Enchanted Evening.” Set on an isolated island during World War II, this sweeping romance tells the story of two couples – a U.S. Navy nurse and a French planter, and a Marine Corps lieutenant and a young local girl – and how their happiness is threatened by the dangers of war and prejudices of their times.
“I am thrilled to be directing my first musical here at the Guthrie,” said Artistic Director Joseph Haj. “Producing South Pacific in 2016 is specifically interesting to me. What Rodgers and Hammerstein were exploring in 1948 was so progressive and brave for its time; addressing racial prejudice, gender roles and topics of war is still completely relevant. I want this production, and the themes it acknowledges, to resonate in a similar fashion with today’s audience. South Pacific is one of the great classics in American musical theater, and I’m excited to bring a major revival to our community.”
Joseph Haj has assembled a creative team to bring South Pacific to life including John Lee Beatty (Set Designer), Jennifer Caprio (Costume Designer), Justin Townsend (Lighting Designer), Scott W. Edwards (Sound Designer), Tim Weil (Musical Director), Daniel Pelzig (Choreographer), Lucinda Holshue (Voice Coach), Jo Holcomb (Dramaturg), Chris A. Code (Stage Manager) and Assistant Stage Managers Michele Hossle and Tree O’Halloran.
Tickets
South Pacific plays thru August 28 on the Wurtele Thrust Stage
The Guthrie Theater, 818 South 2nd Street
612.377.2224 or guthrietheater.org
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