Culture

Arts Scene: Valley Performing Arts' production of 'South Pacific,' sold out on opening weekend, continues through April 19

Theater

Enchanted evening

The opening weekend of Valley Performing Arts' production of "South Pacific" sold out, and those hoping to catch this staging of what some call the greatest American musical of all time should make reservations quickly. Seabees stuck on a womanless supply depot in World War II find their lives brightened considerably when a contingent of nurses is assigned to the base -- but the war goes on to a soundtrack that includes "Bali Hai," "Some Enchanted Evening" and "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair." Tickets are $23 or $21 for students and seniors and are available at www.valleyperformingarts.org, by calling 907-373-0195, or at the Machetanz Theatre, 251 W. Swanson Ave. in Wasilla -- where the show is being presented -- during business hours from 9-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays through April 19.

Art

Student showcase

The 43rd annual Anchorage School District Exhibition of work by student artists is now on display at several locations, including the Anchorage Museum, Eagle River Library and the Mall at Sears. Work by youngsters from kindergarten through high school are featured in a variety of media. The show is presented in conjunction with National Youth Art Month and will be on display through April 12.

Music

Joyful, joyful!

The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra closes out its season with a performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. The musicians will be joined by singers with Anchorage Concert Chorus, Alaska Chamber Singers and West High's choir in the finale, the famous "Ode to Joy." Welcome spring with this inspiring hymn to human hope and happiness. Performances are at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 28, and 4 p.m. Sunday, March 29. Tickets are available at centertix.net.

Mike Dunham

Mike Dunham was a longtime ADN reporter, mainly writing about culture, arts and Alaska history. He worked in radio for 20 years before switching to print. He retired from the ADN in 2017.

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