South Pacific – A Multimedia Presentation on South Pacific

South Pacific is one of the greatest works of musical theater ever created. The masterpiece by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein combines a unique and fascinating story of American nurses and GI on a remote island during World War II with an unforgettable score and powerful lyrics. Add in great costumes, a beautiful set, and fabulous staging and something amazing evolves right in front of the audience’s eyes. In this multimedia presentation on South Pacific will help you more fully appreciate this work of genius.

However, South Pacific is more than just a wonderful musical. The story is powerful as it launches a broadside against racism in America. Like Hamilton, this is a work of genius that transcends the expectations of musical theater and attempts to influence the political discussion in the country. South Pacific is romantic, suspenseful, and often very funny. But, at its core, this was a personal statement against racism and prejudice by its extraordinary creators. Two different characters, both white Americans realize that their love for non-white Asian people dooms any chance of returning to a bigoted America in the 1940s. Beloved by critics and the audience, the show was nonetheless divisive and controversial with some conservatives! This multimedia presentation on South Pacific will reveal its authors’ motivations and intent.

This multimedia presentation traces the backstory of South Pacific, beginning with author John O’Hara’s wartime experiences and brilliant book of short stories that became the basis for the musical.

We will look at excerpts from the stage musical and film versions as we explore the history and impact of a Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece of the Broadway stage. Come for the music and stay for the amazing story!