Matthew J. Palm: Touring “King and I” exquisite.
While you read these words, I am vacationing in Asia. Although I couldn’t invite you faithful readers to tag along, you can experience a theatrical Asia of long ago on the Orlando stage: The touring production of “The King and I” opens today at the downtown Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. I caught this gorgeous show this spring when it stopped in Tampa, and it’s an exquisite production of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical.
Theater and movie buffs are familiar with the beloved songs: “Shall We Dance?,” “Hello, Young Lovers,” “Getting to Know You” and many others.
The story tells of Anna, a young British widow who travels to Thailand — then called Siam — in 1862. She has been employed by the King to help modernize his country by teaching royal children English and Western ways. The two strongwilled personalities quickly clash but also discover a growing affection for one another.
The musical debuted on Broadway in 1951. This tour was launched after New York’s 2015 Lincoln Center revival, which I was fortunate enough to see. Good news for those who missed it: This tour keeps its scenic design virtually intact.
As the curtain rises, Anna arrives in the harbor of Bangkok aboard a boat. It’s a striking image — “Oh, wow,” a Tampa patron whispered next to me. That gives way to silhouettes of pointy buildings against a sunset backdrop. Throughout, the lighting and scenic color palette remain lush and exotic. Beautiful costumes complement the set.
Another carryover from Lincoln Center — a largish contingent of musicians give due justice to the score. In Tampa, 17 players filled the orchestra pit.
This production wisely emphasizes the factors that give the characters their depth — it’s almost Shakespearean as in one monologue the King muses on the nature of political power and how the French have effectively taken over Cambodia.
Lady Thiang, the King’s primary wife, takes on a tragic aspect as she too is caught between traditional and modern ways.
What about the actors, you ask? I can’t be sure exactly whom Orlando theatergoers will see, but leading lady Laura Michelle Kelly is radiant as Anna. She conveys Anna’s inner strength while brilliantly showing the transformative effect Siam has on her. Her clear soprano singing voice is lovely. Just like this show.