A cast of nearly 30 community members helped to bring Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II's South Pacific to life during the Three Lakes Theater Company's June 2000 season. The Seabees and nurses pictured above kept audiences laughing during the World War II era musical, which played to five sold out crowds. (Photo by Lynn Bonack) 

Echoes of World War II Grace Three Lakes Stage

n island paradise during World War II was the setting for the Three Lakes Theater Company’s (TLTC) 2000 summer production of South Pacific. Based upon James Michener's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Tales of the South Pacific, the musical chronicled the love affairs of two couples on a Seabee base in the South Seas.

"We selected it because of the familiar music," said TLTC creative director Mari Lynn Garbowicz. Audiences enjoyed  Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II favorites, including "Some Enchanted Evening," "There is Nothing Like A Dame," "Bali Ha’i," "Younger Than Springtime," and "I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out-a My Hair."

According to Garbowicz, South Pacific was a mix of light comedy which was a different type of show from previous year’s. "It was also a time period we hadn't explored," she commented. 

The Storyline

The story of 'South Pacific' follows two parallel love stories threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. The first involves Lt. Joe Cable and a young Polynesian girl. The second revolves around Nellie Forbush, a Navy nurse from Little Rock, and Emile de Becque, a French planter with whom she falls in love during ‘one enchanted evening.’ But the question of their age differences troubles Nellie who is reluctant about accepting Emile’s marriage proposal.

The naval base setting is also home to Bloody Mary, a friend to American servicemen who will provide them with anything for a price. 

Honey Bun 'Lutharius Billis' entertained audiences during the Thanksgiving Follies as part of the Three Lakes Theater Company's production of South Pacific. Billis came to life when Three Lakes teacher Don Phelps stepped on the stage, according to creative director Mari Lynn Garbowicz. For an in depth look at the show in both articles are photos, click on one of the buttons below (Photo by Linda Goldsworthy)

Her competition is Luther Billis, a fast-buck operator. In order to compete with her, Billis must get to Bali Ha’i, an off-limits island of treasure and girls. His only hope is Lt. Cable, a newly-arrived officer who can obtain a launch to reach the mysterious isle.

But Cable’s reason for coming to the Seabee base is both vital and dangerous. His mission is to set up a spy outpost on a Japanese-held island in preparation for an upcoming Allied invasion. He hopes to persuade Emile to go with him as the planter once lived on the enemy island and knows it well. 

After Emile refuses his request, Cable recalls Bloody Mary’s haunting description of the forbidden Bali Ha’i. Once on the island, Mary takes him to Liat, a beautiful Polynesian girl who turns out to be none other than Mary’s daughter. After a marvelous night with Liat, Cable can stay no longer. While he physically leaves Bali Ha’i, his heart is left behind.Meanwhile, back on the main island, Nellie is attending a party at Emile’s. She is ready to overlook

 her concerns regarding their age differences when she discovers Emile has been married to a Polynesian woman. Faced with disappointment and racial prejudices from her past, she asks for a transfer.

Upon finding out of her decision, Emile comes across Bloody Mary who is asking Cable to marry Liat. But Cable’s prejudice also prevents him from joining his love. Emile informs Cable that he is now able to assist him on the dangerous mission. As the story reveals to the audience, only one will return.

Page last updated on 06/04/2008