SOUTH PACIFIC requires a large cast and it is impossible to cover everyone, but I will give it a try. The sailors and nurses were so full of energy and I liked the fact that individuals stood out. They may have danced and sang as a group, but the audience also was aware that there were personalities involved with the story. I loved the guys’ tribute to Bloody Mary.
Speaking of Bloody Mary, where has Emily Martell been during her years at BAHS? Her Bloody Mary was excellent. She has a voice that is perfect for musical comedy, great stage presence, and seemed to be having fun doing it all. She almost stole the show.
The opening number featured Keri Carroll, a 4th grader, and Ryan Carroll, 6th grade. These youngsters could sing out and were a big part in making the audience aware that it was going to be a great evening.
Luther Billis has always been my personal favorite part in the show and Christian Hopple was enjoying every second on stage. Question Mr. Hopple; did the track team know how well you could move those hips? Good job.
The young lovers, Liat and Lt. Joseph Cable, were charmingly played by Cat Rokavec and Sean Connelly. These two young actors have shown us their acting skills in the past, so it was no surprise that they made these ill-fated lovers real.
The weight of the show falls on its two leads, Ensign Nellie Forbush and Emile de Becque. These two roles are so associated with the original cast that we old timers have trouble not making a comparison. Not to worry! Jessica Brown has grown as a musical comedy star, and she is only a junior in high school. She moves well on stage. In fact I felt that the director had to hold her back when she danced with the ensemble. She handled the growth of Nellie very well, going from innocence to maturity nicely.
The hardest role for a high school student is that of Emile, the mature, sophisticated Frenchman. Sean Gipson was up to it. He carried himself with a dignity that was impressive and was very believable in his more dramatic moments. Sometimes I worry when high schools attack favorite shows. I hate to see favorites butchered. Our local schools are proving that they are loaded with talent and courage. If you are not including the local drama clubs on your schedules, you are doing yourself a great disservice.
It good show; I liked.
