Hollywood Dispatch from South Pacific (long)

[chrisampm2]

Posted: 8/4/07 at 3:27am

I'm just back from the Hollywood Bowl presentation of South Pacific. I got the tickets through the good graces of Popular. While not quite enchanting, the show was thoroughly enjoyable.
Reba and Brian Stokes Mitchell are reunited and still generate little chemistry together. She is better prepared than last year and quite serviceable. She still forces the score into her scoopy style, yet she's so darned likeable. My main complaint is she plays the entire first act at the same level, until she unleashes some petulant anger just before the break. Most disappointing and surprising, she doesn't seem to exhibit any joy in performing or generate much electricity. I blame the sitcom.
Brian Stokes Mitchell and Aaron Lazar hit the low and high notes of the score thrillingly. Mitchell is the spine of the production. His estimable focus has the simplicity she's going for and carries to the back of the very large arena. Lazar brings his fervent commitment. On the downside, his carriage is oddly ducklike and I wish I liked his acting more. The juvenile aspect of his Fabrizio remains, but without as much justification. That said, the humorless part is the most difficult in the piece. He takes off his shirt. Those who care should be quite content.
Michael McKean brings easy humor. Armelia McQueen is just right. Close to Juanita Hall in look and mien, and why not?
David Lee uses the space inventively. I realized how many shows I love concern themselves with evoking their locale. This aspect has a great deal to do with what works for me when the production is outside and in as lovely a setting as the Hollywood Bowl.
Sorry to go on so long. All in the area should get there this weekend.

[Popular]

Posted: 8/4/07 at 1:56pm

Glad you could use them! I'm curious where the seats ended up being...

Thanks for the review. Can't wait till tomorrow.