Maine Maine State Music Theatre (MSMT) is proud to present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” the inaugural production for the 2024 season, opening June 5 at the Pickard Theatre on Bath Road in Brunswick. Since its premiere in 1949, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” has mesmerized audiences worldwide, earning widespread acclaim and numerous accolades, including numerous Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Produced in partnership with the Fulton Theatre, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” has captivated audiences with its powerful portrayal of love, prejudice, and the human condition amidst the backdrop of World War II. Through its unforgettable melodies and poignant narrative, the musical boldly confronts issues of racial discrimination and the complexities of war, leaving a lasting impact on generations of theatergoers and serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the enduring power of love.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” weaves together two captivating love stories: the fiery romance between Nellie Forbush, an adventurous American nurse, and Emile de Becque, a replace charismatic French plantation owner; and the tender connection between Lt. Joseph Cable, a courageous U.S. Marine, and Liat, a captivating young Tonkinese woman. Amidst the chaos of war and the constraints of society, these couples embark on a transformative journey, illuminating the profound power of love and the importance of embracing diversity and compassion.

Leading the cast are William Michals as Emile DeBecque and Carolyn Anne Miller as Nellie Forbush; Jake Goz as Lt. Joe Cable and Lydia Gaston as Bloody Mary, Mark Aldrich,  Mathew Bautista, Joe Capstick, Mary Beth Donahoe, Mark Donaldson, David Girolmo, Jake Goz, Gabriella Green, Matthew Irani, Todd Lawson, Esther Lee, Trevail Maurice, William Michals, James Patterson, Alexander Ríos,  Camila V. Romero. The roles of Ngana and Jerome to be announced.

Music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, with book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan. Directed by Marc Robin and Curt Dale Clark, choreographed by Marc Robin. Sam Groisser (music director), Iván Dario Cano (stage manager), Liz Patton (assistant stage manager), William James Mohney (scenic designer), Paul Black (lighting designer), Shannon Slatton (sound designer), Jane Alois Stein (costume designer), Meg Valentine (props designer), Colin Riebel (video designer), Kevin S. Foster II (wig designer), Bob Cline (casting).

Performances will run June 5-22 with evening and matinee showtimes available. Tickets for Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” are on sale now and can be purchased online at msmt.org or by calling the box office at 207-725-8769.