This year’s most spectacular touring production has got to be The King And I which has arrived in town and runs at Belfast’s Grand Opera House until Saturday.
I remember seeing the 1956 Oscar winning movie version of The King And I with Deborah Kerr and Yul Brynner many years ago so I was really looking forward to the Rodgers & Hammerstein big stage production…. And what a BIG production this is – a huge world-class company of over 50 West End and Broadway performers, an eleven piece orchestra, stunning sets and costumes!!
Everything about this production is just amazing as you are transported back to 1860s Bangkok for the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children.
The big favourite of all the songs in the show is ‘Shall We Dance’ but I had actually forgotten that there are so many other stand out songs including ‘I Whistle A Happy Tune’ and ‘Getting To Know You’. My favourites are Anna’s ‘Shall I Tell You What I Think Of You’ ‘The Small House Of Uncle Thomas’, during the play within a play bit.
Darren Lee and Annalene Beechey are perfectly cast as The King Of Siam and Anna. Having performed in many Broadway and West End productions both performers have a real on stage chemistry and some great comic timing. The role of Anna is a particularly challenging one that requires superb acting, singing and dancing skills and Annalene proves she is that triple threat!
Other performers that deserve a mention include Marienella Phillips who is perfectly cast as Tuptim and has a beautiful voice especially during her duets like ‘We Kiss In The Shadow’. Cezarah Bonner is also excellent as Lady Thiang and has some great songs including ‘Western People Funny’ and ‘Something Wonderful’. There are also a number of very talented kids who just shine every time they come on stage.
Costume designer Catherine Zuber also must be mentioned for creating the beautiful authentic costumes! Christopher Gattelli must also be congratulated for his spectacular choreography.
The King And I is a thoroughly enjoyable three hour show that is both exciting and memorable. This classic from the golden age of musicals has won many Tony and Olivier Awards and will continue to delight audiences for years to come. You might be lucky enough to get tickets between now and Saturday. Limited tickets are available from https://www.goh.co.uk/whats-on/the-king-and-i/
Also, you can watch my interview with Broadway Star Darren Lee (The King Of Siam) here: https://youtu.be/cRS8N_5ONmo
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