Darren Lee and Annalene Beechey in The King and I at Milton Keynes Theatre and Touring. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography
The King and I was reviewed at Milton Keynes Theatre. The tour continues until 2 March 2024.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Shall we dance? Fresh from its West End residency at the London Palladium, Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher’s stunning production of The King and I twirls onto the stage of Milton Keynes Theatre this week. Prepare for a classic musical theatre treat with impressive staging and standout performances. Catch this glorious show while you can.
The King and I is the iconic story of Anna Leonowens (Annalene Beechey), a British teacher, who is hired by the King of Siam (Darren Lee) to teach his children and wives as part of his attempts to modernise the country. Unlike his courtiers, Anna isn’t afraid of the King and her confidence ignites a spark of admiration and love between the pair. But while she resides in the palace with her young son, the contrasting worlds of East and West clash, causing heartbreak and drama.
With a huge cast and grand set, this production of The King and I closely follows the famous film starring Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr (1956). From the opening scene of Anna and her son pulling into the dock of Siam in their boat to the interactions in the palace, the set designed by Michael Yeargan transforms the stage and transports the audience to this exotic world. The set beautifully complements the wonderful performances by the cast and helps to make the entire show a spectacle.
Similarly to the set, the costumes designed by Catherine Zuber are bejewelled and dazzling to depict the wealth of the royal family. It was wonderful to see that Anna’s famous dress of the time remained a staple of this adaptation, as it plays such a pivotal part in the storyline.
As the story goes, the King has many wives and children, which requires a cast of many. However, every actor in this show fulfils their role from the young children to the boisterous president, Kralahome (Kok-Hwa Lie). The perfection of the show is sealed by the standout leading roles of Beechey and Lee as Anna and the King, but it’s made even more exceptional by the talents of the ensemble.
Last but by no means least, the production wouldn’t be worthy of so much praise without the orchestra led by Christopher Mundy. It is great to hear the memorable soundtrack played by such skilled musicians.
Hannah Grimmette
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