Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific”

Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, until Saturday 3 November
Starring Dave Willetts and Helena Blackman
UK Productions.

South Pacific the musical which opened on Broadway in 1949 and which ran for 1923 performances opened at the Alexandra Theatre last night as part of a new UK tour and proved it had lost none of its magic.

After a slightly delayed start, the orchestra struck up the overture which instantly reminds you just how
many wonderful songs the show has to offer and they are well distributed throughout both acts. Big,
colourful and well choreographed production numbers abound as do more tender moments between Ensign Nellie Forbush and Plantation owner Emile de Becque as the story unfolds.

The date line is 1943; World War 2, the setting tropical and the Americans need the help of someone
with local knowledge to go behind enemy lines. Enter experienced West End performer Dave Willetts who
brings considerable presence to the role of Emile De Becque.

Dave Willetts heads an energetic and attractive cast and gives strong and believable performances of “Some Enchanted Evening” and “This Nearly was Mine”. He fit’s the role like a glove.
Helena Blackman who you may recall from “How do You Solve a Problem like Maria?” on TV is well cast as nurse Nellie Forbush. She looks and sounds the part in 1940s costume and has good rapport with Dave Willetts. She gives lively performances of “A Cockeyed Optimist”, “I’m Gonna Wash that Man Right
Outta My Hair”, “A Wonderful Guy” and “Honey Bun”.
Sheila Francisco is a larger than life “Bloody Mary”, was very enticing with “Bali Ha’i” and brought the
house down with a spirited performance of “Happy Talk”. Christopher Howell also scored well with his
portrayal of Luther Billis, a soldier on the make, and particularly in the Act 2 opener ”The Thanksgiving
Follies” when he wore his grass skirt and wooed the audience!.
Ian McLarnon as Lt Joseph Cable and Kanako Nakano as “Bloody Mary’s” daughter Liat are well matched as the young but doomed interracial lovers and his performance of “Younger than Springtime” is another touching moment.

The production numbers are all on a grand scale, particularly the rousing and energetic “There is Nothing Like a Dame” receiving great applause. Likewise the settings by Charles Camm are huge, especially the palm trees, and create great atmosphere. The large supporting cast are well choreographed by Chris Hocking providing a dual visual treat making this an outstanding production of “South Pacific“.

Director Julian Woolford creates a fast moving and yet traditional stage musical that pleased the audience.
Musical director Geoffrey Tinniswood lead the good sized orchestra and they brought to life the classic
Rodgers and Hammerstein score from the overture onwards and were in perfect balance with the cast all night long. The sound was excellent and if the spot at times like chasing a fly across the stage the production would have been virtually perfect.

The show runs for 2 hours and 50 minutes including the interval and you can see it until Saturday 3 November.

To book tickets or see news of forthcoming plays at the Alexandra Theatre, visit www.birmingham-alexandra.co.uk

Review by Clive Fuller