The King and I

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ambitious and most loved musical The King And I returns to Sydney, in a lavish production which should enchant audiences of all ages returning for encore performances.

The classic musical tells of the experiences of Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher who becomes the governess to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860’s, and her relationship with the King.

Sydney actress Charmaine Gibbs, who has had principle roles in several productions including Mary Poppins and Miss Saigon, explained that it’s unnerving playing a role which was initially made famous on stage by Gertrude Lawrence and on film by Deborah Kerr:

“It’s absolutely terrifying! It’s a most difficult role and when you play such iconic characters you want to meet the expectations of audiences – it’s daunting, but an incredible privilege.”

Gibbs said it has been wonderful to finally work opposite accomplished actor Stephen Halstead, who plays the role of the King made famous by Yul Brynner on stage and film.

“He’s a lovely man and his reputation precedes him. He’s a very humble and generous actor and I loved working with him. It was also wonderful working with director Cathy Boyce. She believed in all of us and was empowering. She was so damn calm! I thought ‘why aren’t you losing it with me when I can’t remember my lines?’” laughed Gibbs.

Gibbs also savours the experience of working with the large cast of children: “I would work with kids in a heartbeat – I just love it! I relish the opportunity and it ignites a particular magic on stage.”

With a cast of 60 actors, singers and dancers (including 26 children), 130 period costumes, a beautiful set and a full orchestra with quality musicians, this spectacular promises to be a mesmerising night at the theatre.

There’s romance, drama and humour and the musical numbers including ‘Getting To Know You’, ‘Shall We Dance?’ and ‘Something Wonderful’ should have audiences humming tunes from the show long after leaving the theatre.

“Oldies will love this because it’s a classic and kids will love it because there are kids in it. There’s something special in it for everyone. Leave the political correctness at the door and enjoy watching two people from different backgrounds finding common ground and a way of working with one another,” concluded Gibbs. (MMo)

Mar 3–Mar 12. Rockdale Town Hall, cnr Princess Highway & Bryant St, Rockdale. $40-$110 (family). Tickets & info: www.rockdalemusicalsociety.com