South Pacific – About the Show
Highlights of South Pacific – Must-See Moments
Filled with beautiful melodies and unforgettable songs, the Broadway musical South Pacific is a love story about holding on to hope and overcoming hardship, even in the midst of war. Based on James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1947 book Tales of the South Pacific, the musical draws from two of its short stories, “Fo’ Dolla” and “Our Heroine.”The show premiered on Broadway in 1949 at the Majestic Theatre, now home to The Phantom of the Opera, starring world-renowned Metropolitan Opera singer Ezio Pinza and beloved Broadway star Mary Martin, creating a sensation at the time.
Today, South Pacific continues to shine at the Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center. Don’t miss timeless classics such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Bali Ha’i,” and “A Wonderful Guy.” This is truly a masterpiece and a model of what a Broadway musical can be.
South Pacific – Show info
Show details of South Pacific
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Theater location: Vivian Beaumont Theatre 249 West 45th Street New York, NY (Map) |
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Performance Run: Opening: March 1, 2008 Closing: August 22, 2010 |
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Show Links: |
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Type of the show: Adapted into a Movie Fun Stunning Songs Stunning Dance Tony Award Winner |
South Pacific – Story
The Plot / Summary of South Pacific
During the height of World War II, Lieutenant Cable arrives on the island with a special mission to investigate Japanese movements. He seeks help from the local French plantation owner, Emile, but Emile refuses because of his love for the military nurse, Nellie. Nellie, too, is drawn to Emile.
Unable to gain Emile’s cooperation, Cable decides to take a short leave and is guided by the island merchant Bloody Mary to the enchanting island of Bali Ha’i.
There, Cable meets Mary’s daughter, Liat, and instantly falls in love. However, due to racial prejudice, he cannot bring himself to marry her.
Meanwhile, Emile learns that Nellie cannot accept his children from a previous marriage. Heartbroken, he agrees to join Cable on his dangerous mission.
As the two men set off on their perilous assignment, the women who love them wait anxiously for their return. But what fate awaits them in the harsh reality of war…
South Pacific – Movie
The YouTube trailer of South Pacific
Here is a promotional video for the Broadway musical “South Pacific.” You can see scenes from the musical, which is set during World War II.
South Pacific – FAQ
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Can I buy tickets for South Pacific (Broadway show) on the day of the show?
Tickets are available for purchase until the day before the show through our booking page. See more details about South Pacific tickets.
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How much are tickets for South Pacific (Broadway show)?
Tickets for the Broadway musical South Pacific start at $82 with our discounted prices. See more details for South Pacific tickets.
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Is the English in South Pacific (Broadway show) hard to understand?
The musical South Pacific has a slightly higher level of English difficulty. We recommend reading the synopsis before you go. For other recommended shows, please refer to the Broadway Musical Selection Guide. You’re sure to find a show you’ll love from among the many musicals in New York.
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Do you have a summary or synopsis of South Pacific (Broadway show)?
The story and synopsis of the Broadway musical South Pacific are introduced in the South Pacific Story section. Reading this beforehand will help you easily understand the storyline.
South Pacific – Review
Review by Peter:
Both the Film and the Stage Version
I saw *South Pacific* at the Lincoln Center Theater. More than 50 years ago, the 70mm film version was actually how I first started learning English. On stage, I noticed that some scenes, such as the departure for war and the intelligence reports in the mountains, were simplified in the film. During the show, there were several lines using the word “Jap,” which can feel uncomfortable, but I think it’s important to remember that the story highlights issues of war and racial prejudice that are central to Michener’s original work.
At the April 22 matinee, I had the chance to talk with an elderly couple who had seen the original production with Mary Martin. They told me the singing today was every bit as powerful as it was back then. I highly recommend watching the DVD beforehand to understand the story better, then you can truly enjoy the unique atmosphere of the live Broadway stage.
June 1, 2018
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