'South Pacific' homecoming rooted in history at Bucks County Playhouse

NEW HOPE, Pa. (WPVI) -- The iconic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical "South Pacific" is now on stage at the legendary Bucks County Playhouse.

It couldn't be a more perfect setting for a collaboration that brings some of the best of Broadway to town with a classic for the ages.

"Their music is why I fell in love with theater when I was a kid," explains Broadway star Alexandra Socha. "I grew up in a very 'Golden Era,' traditional household. I have such a deep place in my heart for Rodgers and Hammerstein."

"South Pacific" also has a deep place in Bucks County history.

As part of the iconic songwriting duo, Oscar Hammerstein wrote the lyrics to the legendary musical at his home in Doylestown, where he spent many of his later years.

The history runs even deeper than that.

"James Michener, who wrote the original novel, 'Tales of the South Pacific,' which the musical is based on, was from Doylestown," says Socha.

"South Pacific" is on stage now in New Hope, at the equally storied Bucks County Playhouse.

"It's especially exciting to do this show in Hammerstein and Michener's backyard," says Socha. "I find that even more exciting than doing it on Broadway, personally."

And Socha has a good gauge on that! She was in the original cast of "Spring Awakening" on Broadway, and recently played Glinda in "Wicked," among other shows.

"South Pacific" marks her Bucks County Playhouse debut.

"I was just excited to come out to this theater, and I saw they were doing this show, which I've always wanted to do," she explains. "I've always wanted to play a Rodgers and Hammerstein leading lady."

Her wish was granted! Socha plays the Naval nurse Nellie Forbush.

"I kind of jumped at the chance and pitched myself to the director in the theater and said: 'Bring me out! I'd love to do this," she says.

"South Pacific" is on stage at the Bucks County Playhouse through July 26.

For tickets and more information, visit: BCPtheater.org.