SIAMESE GRINS!
FIONNUALA BOURKE reviews the Alexandra Theatre’s Christmas production – The King And I
SHALL we dance! The well known 1950s hit from Rogers & Hammerstein creates a bridge through time as it is once again brought to life on stage at The Alexandra Theatre this Christmas. Many have experienced The King and I – which features other popular songs such as Getting to Know You and I Whistle a Happy Tune – through the 1956 film version starring Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr.
And the stage version, first performed on Broadway in 1951 and today re-created by The Lincoln Center Theatre, from New York, is a charming way to experience the classic musical in
Birmingham.
In case you don’t know already, The King and I is based on a true story.
It originated from the memoirs of an English governess of the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s.
These were turned into a novel by Margaret Langdon and then brought to life on stage by composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist-dramatise Oscar Hammerstein.
At the heart of the story is a struggle between tradition and modernity brought to the kingdom of Siam by the strong forces of imperialism and industrialisation.
The story is brought to life with grace, elegance and a touch of humour by the cast.
Jose Llana is a characterful king and Annalene Beechey an earnestly gracious governess.
And the children are most impressive, producing impressively adorable performances.
It’s not an obvious Christmas theatre production – there’s no panto dames, Santas or elves – but there is a touch of snow in the second half.
This is during the highlight of the musical – the 16-minute ballet, a show within a show, which the Siam characters perform under instruction from the governess for visiting diplomats.
It’s a beautifully choreographed feature with endearing qualities – and a touch of tragic drama – which has won praise since the production was first staged on Broadway in 1951.
The period costumes and simple but effective sets add to the allure of the production.
So if you fancy a change from panto horses or frosty snowmen, this could the ideal Christmas theatre trip for you!
The King and I runs at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday January 4.