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Something wonderful has danced into Manchester…
The King and I is simply one of the greatest musicals from the golden ages and most people will know it from the 1956, award winning, film adaptation. It was on telly a lot when I was a child and this was my first time seeing the show on stage!
And you’re in trusted hands as this production was devised by the iconic duo, Rodgers and Hammerstein. They are the geniuses behind Oklahoma!, South Pacific and The Sound of Music to name a few.
Don’t forget to find out how to get Hamilton tickets for the Manchester tour!
An unlikely friendship
In the early 1860s, British teacher, Anna, is invited to teach the King of Siam’s children. The King is looking to modernise and open the minds of his many offspring. But that’s not as easy as it sounds with a country that has long held traditions, especially regarding their treatment of women. The two don’t see eye to eye but soon create an unlikely friendship. But how much can that be tested before it breaks?
Fun to watch unfold
The King and I has a polite pace, which totally transfixed me. I was truly engaged in the storyline and characters, all of which felt incredibly authentic.
Anna is said to be a ‘difficult woman’ and if that’s what she is, then sign me up. She is elegant, head strong, intelligent and caring. Someone who wants to make a difference and stands by her morals. Annalene Beechey was so utterly believable as this character and a joy to watch. Her vocals were pitch perfect. Flawless in every way.
Anna’s chemistry with The King is fun to watch unfold. A real love, hate relationship that is equally frustrating as it is exciting.
The King is incredibly unpredictable. Stubborn, angry or mischievous and cheerful. He is complex and conflicted. Stuck in his ways but kind of willing yet struggling to adapt. Darren Lee embodied this with every fibre of his being.
Fit for royalty
The set is fit for royalty with hues of gold melted into everything from the intricately decorated columns to the shimmering crowns. Deep and regal reds and blues in the fabrics help make this a lavish affair.
I particularly loved the ballet the royals put on in Act 2, to entertain the visiting Brits, in the hopes of making them see The King is not as barbaric as they say. The performance draws on their cultural roots with traditional Thai dancing and the use of puppetry, props and magnificent masks.
But what is most unexpected about this musical? The humour. I found myself laughing and chuckling throughout. It’s cheeky, charming and playful. A wonderful surprise!
The soundtrack is without a doubt a masterpiece. Having the opportunity to hear the likes of ‘I Whistle a Happy Tune’ and ‘Shall we Dance’ live with an orchestra is so special. My other favourites, down to their comedic nature, include ‘Shall I Tell You What I Think of You’, ‘A Puzzlement’ and ‘Western People Funny’.
The King and I is an Eastern delight. I just can’t fault it.
Playing at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 13 May 2023.
Image credit: Johan Persson