South Pacific, by Rogers and Hammerstein.
Oxford Playhouse until Saturday 19th. May

South Pacific is a musical adaptation of James A. Michener's book Tales of the South Pacific, created by those legends of the musical stage Rodgers and Hammerstein. Set on an island during World War 2, it tells the story of ensign Nellie Forbush and her stormy love affair with debonair plantation owner and murderer, Emile de Becque. Meanwhile, Rookie Lieutenant Cable falls for Polynesian native Liat by way of a subplot. Racial tensions get in the way of both relationships, whilst attacks from Japanese soldiers remind the island dwellers that they are just one step away from the battlefront.

Back at the US base, the American troops get lusty for some "broads" and explode into an exuberant burst of song. In this energetic production from Oxford Operatic, a bunch of red-blooded sailors deliver the number There is nothing like a dame! with great vigour, and accompany it with a kicking dance routine to boot. We learn that "Bloody Mary" isn't something you pick up at the bar, but the name of the island entrepreneur and harridan. Bloody Mary (Pauline Ballard) whisks us away to a special island with her beautiful rendition of Bali Ha'I, after trying to sell grass skirts and real human heads to the sailors.

Jo Mills sparkles as the cockeyed optimist, ensign Nellie Forbush. The gang of nursing gals tease her mercilessly as her love for the sophisticated Frenchman Emile de Becque (portrayed effortlessly by Dennis Osment) develops. But does the course of true love run smooth? Not on your Nellie! Emile has forgotten to mention that he has two Eurasian children; Nellie is considering a transfer; and on top of it all, a war still has to be fought. Phil Rumsby's cleverly crafted set copes well with the complex story line.

The female chorus show their versatility, jogging on the beach, tap dancing for the sailors' thanksgiving show, and singing gutsy lines like "Get the picture? Yeah Sister!" all with equal skill. Perhaps South Pacific's most famous number, I'm gonna Wash that Man Right Rut of my Hair is performed with humorous gusto as Nellie takes her ritual nightly hair wash on stage.

Despite a few first night technical hitches, this production was a delightful encouragement to think about the need to live for today, in case tomorrow is too late. An enchanting evening put together by Director Ann Robson and Musical Director Michael Evans.

Lita Doolan, 14 / 5 / 01