South Pacific Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...Most of the principals, veterans of many national tours, haven’t worked at Paramount before and they’re all excellent singers, especially Allsun O’Malley, whose Nellie has all of the requisite charm and optimism. O’Malley also is a strong enough actress not to demand her character be liked and to let her Nellie be who she was written to be and learn what she has to learn. Devin Archer richly interprets Emile’s romantic ballads, French accent and all, while Cindy Chang brings some honest dignity to Bloody Mary and Anthony Maggio’s Cabel goes far beyond the standard-issue tenor. All of these characters come off as fighting powerful impulses within themselves, which is a credit to the directing team of Devon Hayakawa and Trent Stork."

Daily Herald - Highly Recommended

"...Paramount Theatre’s lush revival of “South Pacific” reflects what has always been so rewarding and so unsettling about the enduring 1949 musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II."

Talkin Broadway - Highly Recommended

"...Any show that can transport audiences to another time and place while also sparking meaningful conversations on the drive home is doing something special. Whether you adore Rodgers and Hammerstein or think three-hour Golden Age musicals are not for you, Paramount's South Pacific is a journey well worth taking."

Let's Play Theatrical Reviews - Recommended

"...South Pacific is one of those productions where the theme of the play is more important than the acting. It shifted from the lighthearted musicals to more serious, socially conscious drama, changing how stories were told on the stage. Although the original play was deemed controversial for its exploration of prejudiced views, particularly through the song "You've Got to Be Carefully Taught," it doesn't delve deeply into the learned, developed biases and upbringings of Forbush and Cable."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Over the years, I have probably seen "South Pacific" 20 times, and that doesn't include the film version. The original Broadway production goes back to 1949, and the story is based on the book "Tales Of The South Pacific" written by James A. Michener. Rodgers & Hammerstein felt that this book which was composed of many mini-stories, would make a musical that would help alert the world to racism and how we as a people were a country of racists and feminists. Watching the brilliant production on the stage at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, one sees that even today, over 75 years later, some of the elements in this story still exist."

Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended

"...The play’s final moments are staged with a gut-wrenching and very realistic view of the war’s casualties, as all the military personnel evacuate the island. What is typically a trite, stock finale becomes a powerful statement about the hell that is war. Although there’s really nothing very new or different about Paramount’s production, there’s still a lot to recommend it. In this enjoyable, lovely, theme-driven production, theatergoers will either meet a new show from Broadway’s Golden Era, or greet an old friend that they’ve come to love over the years."

Buzz Center Stage - Highly Recommended

"...This South Pacific is a richly imagined, beautifully performed revival that captures the sweep, humor, and emotional punch of the Rodgers and Hammerstein landmark musical while giving it a revitalized, contemporary pulse. From the stunning design work to the standout performances and thoughtfully shaped direction, every element comes together with definition and heart. It’s a staging that invites you in, holds you close, and stays with you long after the final notes fade."

Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended

"...Since I left the Paramount on Friday, I have been telling everyone I can to go and see this show. First, it is amazing that the directing team has taken such an old show and made it feel relevant. Second, every artistic element- from the performances to the technical design- meets the remarkably high standards audiences have come to expect from the Paramount."

PicksInSix - Recommended

"...With a cast of over thirty, many making their first appearance at Paramount, and more than a dozen musicians under the musical direction of Kory Danielson who conducts, this is as massive a production of this classic that you will see. With Morgan DiFonzo’s fast-paced choreography, particularly in the O’Mallory-led ensemble numbers “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” and “I’m In Love With A Wonderful Guy,” and in the high-flying “Honey Bun” showcasing the belly-dancing skills of Matthew Michael Janisse who shines as the hilarious wheeler-dealer Seabee Luther Billis."

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...Because of the heavy themes and with the main characters exhibiting and negotiating with their own racism, this show is not often staged anymore. But don’t allow that to put you off. This production is well worth seeing and deserves attention. You’ll notice that as hit after hit flows from the score."

BroadwayWorld - Highly Recommended

"...This story is relevant today, 76 years after it first appeared on Broadway. Southerners were very critical of the show but R & H stood firm. South Pacific is a ground breaker. Not only is there something about a dame but there is something about South Pacific. Paramount has done it again. This is an American classic musical from the golden age. Treat yourself and people you love to this timeless classic. Let the story fill your heart."

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Paramount’s rendition of “South Pacific” is a good example of how to faithfully present a classic musical with a few minor tweaks. The lush scenery, colorful costumes, rich orchestral music and enchanting melodies sufficiently capture the magic and mystery of paradise."