SOUTH PACIFIC is the fourth show of this year’s season at La Mirada Theatre. It is colorful, energetic, and fun to watch, and it leaves you with an important message. This Rodgers & Hammerstein’s musical romance will continue at La Mirada Theatre through May 13, directed by Glenn Casale.
SOUTH PACIFIC is set on two islands in the South Pacific during World War II. It portrays Americans stationed in a foreign culture during wartime, and with fabulous songs like “Some Enchanged Evening,” “Bali Ha’I,” “There’s Nothin’ Like a Dame,” and “You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught,” it entertains and delights as it underlines how racial prejudice can affect one’s relationships and one’s future.
The stage at La Mirada, by Robert Kovach, is bright and dynamic with movable pieces that adjust from the sides and above and change smoothly between scenes. It is well served by the lighting and sound designs, by Jared A. Sayeg and Julie Ferrin, respectively. Music is outstanding, performed live by a 14-piece orchestra conducted by Brent Crayon.
The cast has a blast performing SOUTH PACIFIC, as the 24 actors cheerfully gift you with their powerful voices and dancing abilities. John Cudia is fantastic and an audience favorite as Emile de Becque. He is well acquainted with the stage and has the unique honor of being the only actor to have appeared on Broadway as both the Phantom and as Jean Valjean. His voice is magnificent. Along with Stephanie Renee Wall, as Nellie, he received a standing ovation from the audience on opening night. Other highlights in this excellent cast are Jodi Kimura as Bloody Mary, and Jeff Skowron as Luther Billis. They insert a healthy dose of humor into the story, while also showing off some serious talent.
Both an enjoyable story and a relevant social reminder, SOUTH PACIFIC is definitely a show worth watching.
The musical will perform Wednesday to Sunday through May 13, 2018. Tickets range $20 to $70 and can be purchased at LaMiradaTheatre.com or by calling (562) 944-9801. Student, senior, and group discounts are available.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at 14900 La Mirada Blvd., in La Mirada. Parking is free.
TheFumeofsighs.com 