A one-night-only concert production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic musical “South Pacific” is coming to the Benedict Music Tent on July 11, the Aspen Music Festival and School announced Tuesday.
The Music Fest is co-producing the event with Theatre Aspen in a first-time collaboration for the two local cultural institutions.
The show will be directed by Tony Award nominee Lonny Price (“Sunset Boulevard,” “110 in the Shade”) and conducted by Drama Desk Award winner Mary-Mitchell Campbell (“Mean Girls,” “Company”).
Campbell will lead a 55-piece orchestra, a chorus of Aspen Opera Center singers and a cast of what the announcement dubbed “Broadway’s brightest,” though a cast has yet to be announced.
“We have long hoped for a substantial collaboration with Theatre Aspen, and to present an iconic Broadway show in the Festival’s American-themed season is a perfect match,” Music Fest president and CEO Alan Fletcher said in the announcement. “The sound of Broadway is a truly American sound, and this evening promises everything—artistry, energy, emotion, as well as good, old-fashioned American pizzazz.”
“South Pacific” is an iconic American work, set on an island paradise with two parallel love stories navigating the dangers of prejudice and war. Premiering on Broadway in 1949, the musical was an instant success and ran for 1,929 performances, winning ten Tony Awards including Best Score.
This concert adaptation captures the uproarious yet tender nature of the musical and focuses on the beloved score that made “South Pacific” unforgettable. Enduring songs include “Some Enchanted Evening,” “There is Nothing Like a Dame” and “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair.”
“We are so proud to be partnering with our good friends at AMFS for the very first time,” said Theatre Aspen producing director Jed Bernstein. “We are looking forward to this production becoming a highlight of Aspen’s busy summer culture season.”
Tickets are $50 and $95. A limited number of $500 tickets include premier seating and a post-event cast party. They can be purchased at the Music Fest box office by calling 970-925-9042, Monday–Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, or online anytime at http://www.aspenmusicfestival.com.