I could, with every justification, make this a one word report - EXCELLENT. This would, of course, be grossly unfair to the society and all the effort it made to stage this show. The society is well known in the area for its proficiency in the scenery department. This time it excelled. The audience were treated to a realistic South Sea island, even down to the twin peaks of the volcanic Bali Ha'i glowing red at the appropriate moment.
Emile, (William Sharples) maintained the accent throughout, acted well and sang beautifully; This Nearly Was Mine was quite moving. Gary Williams gave a good portrayal of Luther Billis and David Perks, playing Joseph Cable, both looked and acted the part but struggled just a little at the top of his vocal range. The smaller parts, which tend to be thrown away, were equally well cast and here I would mention William Steel (George Bracken) and Edward Donnelly (Wm. Harbison). Silvia Fishwick, who has played Bloody Mary on several occasions, was up to her usual high standard and an energetic Nellie Forbush (Gillian Pollitt) played her part well enough but the "country girl from Little Rock" didn't come through.
The chorus maintained the pace with the men presenting a raucous Nothing Like A Dame followed by the girls with a pleasant I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair.
The producer, Audrey Raistrick, is to be congratulated on the overall production. The musical backing was in the capable hands of the musical director.
