King and I, The

The King and I is loved as one of the greatest musicals of all time.  Seen by millions of people across the world since it was first performed in 1951, when it was showered with awards and became the blockbuster Hollywood movie, its glorious soundtrack is still a best seller today. Read more …

The heart-warming story of the British governess brought to the court of Siam to tutor the King’s many children is told using one of the most beautiful scores ever written with sweeping melodies such as The March of the Siamese Children, Shall We Dance, I Whistle A Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers and the unforgettable Getting To Know You.

This breath-taking new production from the Leicester’s Curve, directed by Paul Kerryson, is a lavish, grand-scale spectacle. With giant gold Buddha’s, sumptuous costumes, a chorus of adorable children, acrobatic dancers and live music this beautiful production guarantees standing ovations.

The King and I stars Ramon Tikaram as the The King of Siam, whose West End credits include Bombay Dreams, Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar and Ramayana at the National Theatre and television credits including Wired, Silent Witness, The Mighty Bush and This Life.

The critical consensus

This is a show that's full of heart and soul, which, as charming as it is, also takes itself seriously enough to give those blinded by power their comeuppance.

(*) Neil Cooper, The Herald, 19/12/2011

A powerful, satisfying production which lifts the original story while retaining what made it so satisfying as a musical in the first place.

Thom Dibdin, The Stage, 19/12/2011

The King and I is, frankly, just too tasteful for it’s own good.

(*) (*) Josie Balfour, The Scotsman, 20/12/2011

Paul Kerryson’s powerful and intelligent production, which features two memorable leading performances.

(*) Joyce McMillan, 22/12/2011

In many ways this pays homage to the intelligence of both the original script and songwriting – which marry the intense and often antagonistic sensibilities of all the characters with the tender and engaging undertones of the storyline.

(*) Andrew, TV Bomb, 28/12/2011

At least this stylish production, by Leicester’s Curve Theatre, makes a stab at rejuvenating the story with its spare, impressionistic set and ingenious use of shadow puppetry.

(*) (*) Allan Radcliffe, The List, 06/01/2012

The King and I was a triumph in itself as the live orchestra lead by Julian Kelly, the professional actors and all the budding young children were magnificent.

(*) Francesca Parker, The Journal, 18/01/2012