The King and I touring musical production is set in the 1860’s telling the story of a widow Anna Leonowens (Annalene Beechey) travelling to Bangkok with her son to become the teacher for the King of Siam’s many children.

Brian Rivera casts a dominant regal presence throughout the performance in the role of King of Siam. Commanding respect and finding himself angered by Anna’s challenging questions. Used to women doing as “they are told” and he struggles many times to accept that she will stand up for herself. The promises he made to her in the beginning need to be upheld or she will leave!

Beechey and Rivera end up respecting each other despite their differences. Although neither fully understands each other’s culture. Her Englishness allows him to mellow slightly without losing his power. Although his title outside the kingdom of being a “barbarian” troubles him he needs Anna to help show his kinder side to other foreign dignitaries.

Catherine Zuber has created a fantastic array of costumes. From the bold designed regal outfits worn by the King, full underskirt dresses worn by Anna, which look difficult to manoeuvre at times to the beautiful oriental costumes worn in the Theatre production performed for the English dignitaries.

I found the relationship formed between Tuptim (Marienella Phillips) and Lun Tha ( Dean John-Wilson) extremely sad. The young lady Tuptim is gifted to the King and falls in love with the handsome young man. Sadly their plans to escape are discovered and they fail to be together. Their onstage relationship appears genuine and they look suitably perfect together.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical is still as popular over 75 years since it premiered in 1951 and tonight saw an almost sold-out house for the press night performance.

Director Bartlett Shea’s touring production is a well-crafted successful cast. The ensemble routines didn’t put a step wrong throughout a wonderful credit to choreographer Christopher Gattelli.

For more information on The King and I touring musical and future productions at New Victoria Theatre, Woking please check out the links below.

The King and I runs until Saturday 30th September at New Victoria Theatre, Woking.

Four Stars.

Photo Credit Johan Perrson.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-king-and-i/

https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre/