Review: THE KING AND I at The ORCHARD THEATRE, DARTFORD

 



Tickets: Paid for

Date: 8th April 2023 

Seat: E23 (Stalls)

Star Rating: 5

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhOL58oWqWw

The King and I, a timeless classic, is brought to life once again, and that can only be a good thing. New musicals are exciting and fresh, but being able to see where it all started and understand why these classics really are classics is just as wonderful, and this new production of The King and I is all about wonder.

I'll admit, the main reason for booking these tickets was because the show was to star Helen George, a definite favourite in our household, thanks to her radiant portrayal of Trixie in Call The Midwife, and although I enjoy The King and I, I was most excited to see her play Anna. However, once we arrived at the theatre, we discovered that it was to be Maria Coyne, not Helen George, taking the part. The term 'crushing disappointment' has never been so apt. 

But hear me out.  

I was wrong.

With the enchanting Maria Coyne taking centre stage as Anna Leonowens, I was not in the least disappointed. In fact, I forgot about everything and just enjoyed the show because every note and every step was perfect. This captivating production is a sumptuous feast for the senses, a perfect blend of romance, culture, and heartwarming human connections.

From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is transported to the exotic world of 19th-century Siam, where opulence and tradition reign supreme. The set design is nothing short of breathtaking, with lush, vibrant colors and intricate details that make the audience feel as though they've stepped into a living, breathing painting.

Maria Coyne's portrayal of Anna is truly mesmerizing. She exudes warmth, intelligence, and strength, effortlessly capturing the essence of a woman navigating a foreign land with grace and determination. Her chemistry with the King, played with equal fervor and charisma by Darren Lee, is palpable, and their interactions are laced with both tenderness and tension, making their evolving relationship all the more captivating.

The supporting cast, too, is exceptional, their performances breathing life into the rich tapestry of characters that populate this beloved story. The delightful children, in particular, steal the show with their innocence and charm, leaving the audience with full hearts and misty eyes. And the love story between Tuptim (Marienella Phillips) and Lun Tha (Dean John-Wilson) is beautifully told; it's the perfect symbol of the oppression of the time. 

The musical numbers are delivered with passion and precision, with each note swelling with emotion and each choreographed movement a tribute to the harmony of Eastern and Western influences. Memorable classics like "Getting to Know You" and "Shall We Dance?" are given fresh, invigorating renditions that leave the audience humming long after the show has ended.

The King and I is a triumphant celebration of love, understanding, and the power of human connections that transcend cultural boundaries. This production is a must-see, a dazzling spectacle that will leave you with a renewed sense of wonder and a heart full of joy, etc, etc, etc...




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