The King and I – Review
Press Tickets – I received tickets for The King and I at the New Victoria Theatre in return for this review. All opinions are my own.
Originally premiering on Broadway in 1951, “The King and I” was based on Margaret Landon’s novel “Anna and the King of Siam,” which was itself inspired by the real-life experiences of Anna Leonowens, a British governess who taught the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the 1860s. The story centres on the relationship between Anna and King Mongkut as they navigate their differing cultures, politics, and prejudices, all set against the backdrop of the exotic and intriguing world of Siam (now Thailand).
I grew up loving the films of Rodgers and Hammerstein, spending many happy afternoon with Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music and Deborah Kerr in The King and I. As with the film, the outfits are utterly mesmerising in the stage show, the traditional Thai outfits twinkling with beads and jewels. But it is Anna Leonowens dresses that captured my heart, the protective skirt, stunning details and wonderful twirl being what every childs dreams are made of.
The musical’s themes of love, respect, and understanding across cultural divides continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless and universal tale. It certainly felt like that watching it, jokes hit the same as they did all those years ago, and wry smiles emerge at the same points as they would have back in the 1950s. Equality, race and prejudice are just as current now, as they were back then.
One of the standout features of any production of “The King and I” is its outstanding music. The show opens with a repertoire of the score played by the orchestra (just as it does in the film) and it’s breathtaking. Classics like “Getting to Know You,” “Shall We Dance?” and “Hello, Young Lovers” are truly timeless.
The cast are magnificent, Annalene Beechey plays the role of Anna Leonowens wonderfully and Brian Rivera captures the King’s charisma and quirks with ease. Of course, the stars of the show are the children, who are adorable, and a special shoutout has to go to Caleb Lagayan who plays Prince Chulalongkorn, his incredible voice took ours away.
The production spares no expense in recreating the opulent world of Siam, with intricate costumes that reflect the time period’s grandeur and elegance. The lavish set designs transport audiences to the heart of the royal palace, immersing you in the rich and vibrant culture of the Siamese court. You feel as if you are there. And actually, you almost wish you were.
Thank you for coming to read ‘The King and I – A review’.
