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LAWRENCE -- "South Pacific" will be staged by the University of Kansas Theatre, in cooperation with the KU Department of Music and Dance, at 7:30 p.m. April 19, 20, 26 and 27 and at 2:30 p.m. April 21 and 28 in the Crafton-Preyer Theatre. The mid-April performances will close out the University Theatre's 2001-02 "Main Stage" season.
The KU production is being directed by John Staniunas, associate professor of theatre and film, with musical direction by Mark Ferrell, director of the KU Opera and coach-accompanist in KU's Division of Voice and Opera. Marianne Kubik, assistant professor of theatre and film, choreographed the production. The 32-piece orchestra is being conducted by Allison Gaines, Arcadia, Calif., doctoral student in conducting. Scenic design is by Brian Clinnin, Arlington Heights, Ill., graduate student; lighting design is by Beth Collins, Sanderstead, England, graduate student; and costume design is by Aaron Dyszelski, Wauwatosa, Wis., graduate student. Dramaturg is Julie Noonan, Howard, S.D., graduate student.
Staniunas says "South Pacific," which was written after America won World War II, reflected who Americans found themselves to be during that war.
"In going across the seas, Americans discovered a lot about what it means to be an American and a lot about our own racial prejudice at home," Staniunas says. "Americans were facing serious issues and themes, so Rodgers and Hammerstein created a musical answer to these issues."
There are many reasons Staniunas wanted to stage "South Pacific" this season. Not only is the musical one of the best loved in musical theatre history, but the timing also is perfect in light of the Richard Rodgers centenary, to be celebrated June 28.
Staniunas believes the 1949 musical is as relevant today as when it as first produced.
"The current conflict in the world makes a new generation of students realize they are not in the world alone," he says. "They live in a world, not just in a country. 'South Pacific' speaks to that very issue."
Reserved tickets for the musical are on sale through the KU ticket offices: University Theatre, 864-3982; Lied Center, 864-ARTS; SUA, 864-7469; and online at www.kutheatre.com. Tickets are $16 and $14 for the public, $10 for all students, and $15 and $13 for senior citizens.
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