Rockwall Summer Musicals opens nostalgic classic SOUTH PACIFIC

Rockwall, TX (July 1, 2024) – Rockwall was the place to be on Friday night with a nostalgic step back into the 1940’s as Rockwall Summer Musicals opened their 13th season with the beloved classic, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific.

Walking through the lobby, patrons were instantly transported to 1940’s island life with tropical decor,  brightly colored leis and a warm welcome from the RSM Guild.  Centerpiece in the lobby was a wonderful collection of 1940’s memorabilia, lovingly displayed by collector Becky Henderson.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific was an instant hit back in 1949 when first performed and became one of Broadway’s longest running musicals. It remains today, beloved amongst audiences and RSM’s presentation, directed by Barbara Doudt, did not disappoint as we follow the romantic conflict between young US Navy Nurse Nellie Forbush (Molly Pope) and middle aged frenchman Emile de Becque (Grant Palmore) candidly exploring racial biases on a South Pacific island during WWII.

RSM favorite Molly Pope delivers a delightfully energetic performance as bubbly blonde Nellie, with musical numbers  “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair” and “Cockeyed Optimist”. Lead actor Grant Palmore held us spellbound throughout with a beautiful rendition of crowd favorite “Some Enchanted Evening”. Delivering a fantastic performance, Palmore expertly navigates the inner struggles of de Becque as the widowed father of two bi-racial children Jerome and Ngana (delightfully portrayed by talented young actors Arik Andrews and Katie Ramirez).

Comic relief wheeler dealer, the entrepreneurial Luther Billis hilariously played by Ben Berman, with sidekicks Stewpot (DJ Provencio) and Professor (Robbie Mosley) provide a ‘three stooges’ type comedy to the plot,  each character perfectly constructed and when joined by an ensemble of sailors for “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame”, it’s a moment of pure vocal delight.

Competition to Billis’ island enterprise is savvy Tonkinese mama Bloody Mary (Francine Simpson) whose relentless pursuit of finding a wealthy match for her beautiful teenage daughter Liat (Briella Antenorcruz) leads her to Island newcomer, handsome young Lieutenant Joseph Cable (Jake Busher).  Busher instantly wins hearts with a gorgeous rendition of “Younger Than Springtime” and later in the show “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught”, a controversial addition back in 1949, packs a punch that remains every bit as relevant today, serving as a stark reminder of the central element of the show.

Naval Captain Bracket (Brian Hokanson) and Commander Harbinson (Alan Peterson) round out the cast, expertly keeping a spirited ensemble of sailors and nurses in order.

Suzanne Toler’s lively choreography and a live orchestra conducted by Tracie Kaip kept the audience engaged for the two and a half hour performance.

South Pacific runs for for just two weekends (June 28, 29, 30 & July 5, 6, and 7)

All performances will take place main stage at Rockwall High School – 901 Yellow Jacket Lane, Rockwall.

Tickets can be purchased through ‘Tickets to the City’ or at rockwallsummermusicals.org.

Ticket prices : Adult $29.35, Senior $27.30 and Students $24.95

RSM appreciates its sponsors, members and volunteers whose support of local arts make these productions possible.

Submitted by Jamie Rubush for Rockwall Summer Musicals, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Courtesy photos.

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