Rodgers and Hammerstein's 'The King and I' is an adaptation of Margaret Langdon's novel 'Anna and the King of Siam', and is a unique musical where there is no love/romance between the two leading characters, ending with the death of a hero.
It tells the story of Anna Leonowens, an English widow, employed by the King of Siam to tutor his children and many wives. With her son Louis in tow, Anna arrives at the Royal Palace in Bangkok to discover the King has not kept his promise of providing her with a separate house away from the Palace. She is witness to the arival of the King's latest 'gift' of a new wife named Tuptim and is overwhelmed by the number of children she is to tutor. Anna and the King clash on various issues but find some common ground when she resolves one of the King's political dilemmas. Gradually, they develop an understanding and respect beyond cultural and social boundaries. Their attachment to each other is of mutual respect rather than love. The sub-plot provides the romantic element of the musical, with Tuptim falling in love with Lun Tha, a Burmese emissary, and together they attempt to elope but are caught and killed under the King's orders.
Siam Surprise by Linh
The Metropolitan Musical Theatre Company of SA has enlivened 'The King and I' and under the direction of Hermonn, presents a production featuring gorgeous melodies with affable characters in exquisite Eastern silks and European gowns.
Talented music and drama teacher, Trish Spence shows flair in her portrayal of the unflappable Anna Leonowens and shines in her scenes with the children. Trish's lovely voice possesses tonal warmth as she reminisces in Hello,Young Lovers, she conveys good English humour in Getting To Know You and swirls gracefully to the joyous Shall We Dance?. Her highlight song Shall I Tell You What I Think Of You? shows her ranting and raging in stark contrast to her usual calmness.
Always the willing participant in theatre, Barbara Henshaw's performance skills in various plays and musicals have been enjoyed by many. Her characterisation of the King's head wife, Lady Thiang is played to great effect. Barbara gives Lady Thiang some vocal light and shade as she sings with the other wives in Western People Funny and as the well composed and wise woman in the King's Palace whose understanding of the King's stubborn nature is conveyed in the stirring Something Wonderful .
Young and aspiring performer, Emily Schwab plays the King's 'gift' and new wife Tuptim with such sweetness and sorrow, it's difficult not to feel moved by her predicament. She sang beautifully with Gordon Combes' Lun Tha for We Kiss In A Shadow, and again with Greg in I Have Dreamed.
Multi-talented allrounder Greg Hart is the stand out performer as the overbearing, temperamental King of Siam. Greg exudes the childishness of a spoilt heir yet displays an endearing charm behind his awe-inspiring exterior. Greg carried the King's majestic and imposing character with aplomb, while providing humourous moments in A Puzzlement and Song Of The King.
The chorus of wives and children gave brilliant support to the leads and their presence was a constant reminder of the King's influence and absolute power in a country ready to connect with the West.
Praise goes to the costume co-ordinators Leonie Osborn and Kerry O'Donohue, especially to costume makers Hermonn, Cathy Maxwell and Jill Dall for the gorgeous silk dresses featuring intricate designs and every colour of the rainbow. Choreographer Carmel Vistoli performed wonders, making the dance sequences beguiling and mesmerising.
'The King And I' is an enduring and entertaining musical with an underlying message of globalisation and womens' issues. Rodgers and Hammerstein has created a story with a dignified and lavish picture of the East, without the cliches connected with identifying the Orient as seen in most musicals.
