LANCASTER, Pa. — Since 1949 in its original Broadway run, "South Pacific" has carved its place in the minds of people around the world thanks to songs like "A Wonderful Guy, Some Enchanted Evening, Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair" and so many more.
"Even if you don't know 'South Pacific,' you know some of the songs just in your head," said Carolyn Anne Miller, who plays Nellie in the show. "It makes people feel good to bring things back that they know and they've known their whole lives."
A love story shrouded in the era of World War II, the show touches on both romance, but also equality and prejudices the legendary creators of the show, Rodgers and Hammerstein, recognized in their own time.
Cast members say it hits home not only because of the music and story but because they still relate to its message.
"We're still dealing with equality and prejudices in our world and is a little jarring that is still existing," Miller said.
For actress Lydia Gaston, who plays Bloody Mary in the show, "South Pacific" resonates a little bit differently. Born in the Philippines herself, her parents grew up during World War II in the island nation and regaled her with stories growing up. Same time frame and same region as the musical itself.
Gaston recognizes that stories like these stay relevant for decades after their initial release due to not only a message but also a history lesson.
"You can't teach everything in a play, but you can whet people's appetites," Gaston said.
A glimpse into history, with enough pizzazz to stay in your mind for generations no matter how much times have changed, or haven't.
"We are so much more aware of each other now, but that doesn't mean we get along," Gaston said. "What can we do today to engender community and differences and find commonality and live together?"
Jake Goz and Gabi Chun, actors in the show, talk more about the performance in the video below:
Performances of "South Pacific" at the Fulton Theatre in Lancaster run through May 19. For more information, visit the theatre's website.