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This classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical is based on James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1947 book “Tales of the South Pacific.” which is set in an island paradise during World War II. Two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war.

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Nellie, a spunky nurse from Arkansas, falls in love with a mature French planter, Emile. Nellie learns that the mother of his children was an island native and, unable to turn her back on the prejudices with which she was raised, refuses Emile’s proposal of marriage. Meanwhile, the strapping Lt. Joe Cable denies himself the fulfilment of a future with an innocent Tokinese girl with whom he’s fallen in love out of the same fears that haunt Nellie. When Emile is recruited to accompany Joe on a dangerous mission, Nellie realizes that life is too short not to seize her own chance for happiness, thus confronting and conquering her own prejudices.

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Illawarra On Pointe Productions presented this classic R&H musical in concert form with a full symphony orchestra sharing the stage with local actors, dancers and singers.