Minnetonka High School Theatre performers are inviting audiences to take a trip to the "South Pacific."

Set to open 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical is directed by MHS theatre director Kent Knutson. With elements of love, war and a whole lot in between, it was a story Knutson said he couldn't pass up as the choice for this year's fall musical.

"I thought it was appropriate this particular time because of what's happening in the country and because this show is one of the most romantic things Rogers and Hammerstein ever wrote," Knutson said.

"South Pacific," is the tale of two parallel love stories that are threatened by the dangers of war and prejudice.

A main love story is that of Lt. Joe Cable and Liat, who fall in love but because each is of a different race and come from different backgrounds, many around them try to keep them apart.

Ryan McCartan, who plays Cable, said its those close to his character who are not supportive of his feelings for Liat.

"Back home all of his family and friends are racist, so he has a tough time grasping the fact he is in love with a woman of a different race."

Marissa Kuhnly, who plays Liat, a native Tonkinese woman, said the kind of relationship Cable and Liat were pursuing was frowned upon at the time.

"They fall in love, and at that time in the 1940s, it wasn't acceptable," Kuhnly said.

Two other characters, Ensign Nellie Forbush and Emile de Becque, figure prominently in "South Pacific." Nate Irvin, who plays Emile de Becque, said the role is a challenge, portraying an older man of French decent.

"It's a harder role for me because I'm playing age," he said.

"South Pacific" includes popular songs like "Some Enchanted Evening," "Younger Than Springtime" and "There is Nothin' Like a Dame." Knutson said audiences should enjoy MHS' adaptation of the show.

"I think it will be a show people will really enjoy coming out to see," he said.

Shows are scheduled 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 and at 1 p.m. Nov. 26 on the main stage at the Arts Center on 7 on the campus of Minnetonka High School, 18285 Highway 7.

Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and $10 for students. You may purchase tickets by calling the Arts Center box office at 952-401-5898 or by visiting www.minnetonkatheatre.com.

This article was first published Oct. 30 on our website, www.mnsun.com. Visit the site for your daily local news, including next-day city council and school board coverage.

"I think it will be a show people will really enjoy coming out to see," he said.

Shows are scheduled 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 and at 1 p.m. Nov. 26 on the main stage at the Arts Center on 7 on the campus of Minnetonka High School, 18285 Highway 7.

Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and $10 for students. You may purchase tickets by calling the Arts Center box office at 952-401-5898 or by visiting www.minnetonkatheatre.com.

This article was first published Oct. 30 on our website, www.mnsun.com. Visit the site for your daily local news, including next-day city council and school board coverage.