Review: South Pacific @ The Opera House Manchester

Last night we went to see South Pacific at The Opera House in Manchester. This powerful love story, set on a South Pacific island during World War ll, was brought thrillingly to life in an epic new five-star production directed by Chichester Festival Theatre’s Artistic Director Daniel Evans (Me and My Girl and Fiddler on the Roof). With a sensational cast of over thirty led by Julian Ovenden (Bridgerton, Downton Abbey, Merrily We Roll Along and Grand Hotel) and Gina Beck (Matilda, Wicked and Les Misérables), plus a full orchestra, this ravishing musical was set to be the must-see theatrical event of the year. Boasting one of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most memorable scores, this much-loved Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical features timeless songs such as Some Enchanted Evening, I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair and Bali Ha’i.

Evans has the ability to modernise old musicals and he doesn't disappoint with this one. Indeed the show includes more than a dozen great songs in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1949 blockbuster. Julian Ovenden plays a brilliant part leading the cast as the plantation owner Emile de Becque and Gina Beck although pregnant displays plenty of energy on the stage as Nellie. 

The set and costumes take you back in time and are also a tribute to the 1958 film. 

Keir Charles plays the perfect wide boy Luther Billis whilst Joanna Ampil plays Bloody Mary a clever entrepreneur and her daughter (Sera Maehara) has some amazing dance solos choreographed by Ann Yee.

Including some of the best-known songs such as 'I'm going to wash that man right out of my hair', 'Happy Talk' and 'Some enchanted evening', don't miss this fresh 5-star production as it tours the UK, bringing ravishing sets, choreography and a multitudinous cast - a true theatrical marvel.

Buy tickets for the tour here!