Romantic island adventure

Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre’s next production this season, “South Pacific,” opens July 13 at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Theatre in Coeur d’Alene.

Considered by many critics to be among the greatest musicals of the 20th century, “South Pacific” is set in an island paradise during World War II as two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war.

Composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan, the work premiered in 1949 on Broadway and won 10 Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize. The plot of the musical is based on James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1947 book "Tales of the South Pacific" and combines elements of several of those stories.

“This classic is as relevant today as when it first debuted,” said CST’s announcement of the upcoming show.

“South Pacific” features Rodgers and Hammerstein classic songs like “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair,” and “Bali Ha’i.”

“Tackling one of the staple shows of musical theatre is kind of a daunting task for me,” said director Tyler Krieg, in a news release. “There are a lot of expectations that go along with ‘South Pacific,’ but luckily, I’m surrounded by artists who tackle their roles with incredible aplomb. I’m also lucky to be working on a script and story that is so intricate and well-spun while still remaining relevant.”

Krieg said he’s particularly excited because a song originally cut from the first Broadway production will be included: “My Girl Back Home,” a duet by Cable and Nellie.

“Because of such a familiarity with the score, hopefully this will provide an extra treat for folks that know the show forward and back,” Krieg said. “In addition, by doing an old standard, we are awarded the chance to look at the script and score with fresh eyes. I’m really proud of the new coat of paint our production has gotten as well as the design team and cast’s ability to streamline the story and tell it in its most honest form.”

Whitney Miller, who plays Nellie Forbush, called this production of “South Pacific” “a dream.”

“I have had a blast finding Nellie and Emile and their love in this whirlwind of war and conflict. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at CST,” Miller said. “...I love this story and I love this company. I’m so excited to share it with our audiences.”

The show runs through July 30 with shows at 7:30 p.m. on July 13-15, 19-22, and 26-29. There are 2 p.m. matinee performances on July 16, 23 and 30.

Ticket prices are $49/adults, $42/62-plus, and $27/12 and under. For tickets and information, visit cdasummertheatre.com or call (208) 660-2958.