The King and I

Why Watch The King And I

One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s finest works hailing from the golden age of musicals, The King and I, is a testament to the lavish heritage celebrated across romantic musical theatres. Nominated for six Oliver Awards, and deemed ‘the theatrical event of 2018,’ the musical has enjoyed a long-standing success in Broadway and West End. Produced by Howard Panter for Trafalgar Theatre Productions and directed by Tony Award-winner Bart Sher (My Fair Lady and South Pacific on Broadway), The King and I is all set to embark upon a world tour to charm audiences all over. The musical involves glitz, glitter, and dark thematic content, tackling forbidden love, independence, identity, and the conquering of prejudices With timeless music, timely themes, and seductive performances, Sher’s production is a boisterous classic.

The Story

The story involves a widowed school teacher, Anna Leonowens, from the UK, who travels to Siam in the early 1860s to work for the King. The King feels determined about ushering Siam into the modern age, and thus takes measures to introduce his offsprings to the many wonders of Western education. Called upon to serve as a governess to his children, Anna sets her sights on an adventure. However, Anna, with her strong-willed opinions and the King with his barbaric principles struggle to find common ground. Eventually, Anna’s kindness wins the king over, fueling mutual understanding and establishing a deeper meaning to their relationship. The musical also features a subplot that revolves around the forbidden love between slave Tuptim and Lun Tha.

Good For

Fans of Romantic Musicals | Culture Aficionados

Critics Review

“Bartlett Sher’s direction is sensitive, imaginative and takes a real delight in the material with which he is working.” – British Theatre Guide