A full-scale, musical theatre production of The King and I is coming to three major stages across Trinidad: the National Academy of the Performing Arts in Port-of-Spain, Naparima Bowl in San Fernando and Queen's Hall, St Ann's at the end of April.
This Rodgers and Hammerstein musical classic has been performed all over the world as well as on the big screen in movie adaptations since it premiered on March 29, 1951, at Broadway's St James Theatre. The production is being done by up-and-coming production company First Instinct Productions.
A release from the producers said there is a buzz about The King and I on social networks and in the local music and theatre scene, largely due to the company bringing the production to life as well as what some have said is a brilliantly selected cast.
Fresh from their success with The Sound of Music in 2012, First Instinct producer, Trevon Jugmohan has teamed up with director Raymond Choo Kong and Executive Producer John Smith for this all-local production.
The cast includes lead actors Conrad Parris as the King, and Tova Miller as Anna Leonowens. Supporting cast includes Patti Ann Ali and Germaine Wilson sharing the role of the King's chief wife, Lady Thiang. Other cast members include Chris Smith as Kralahome, Rais Clarke-Mendes as Tup Tim, Charles Reid and Christian Roberts as Lun Tha, Elijah Wilson as Prince Chulalongkorn and finally, Jonathon Blaize and Joshua Elcock sharing the role of Louis.
All the actors have singing roles and some will also sweep across the stage with dancing original choreography by Jerome Robbins, further enhanced by the work of Abeo Jackson as well as noted choreographer and tutor, Dr Sat Balkaransingh.
Patrons can also look forward to a production with familiar song favourites including Getting to Know You, Whistle a Happy Tune and Shall We Dance?. The production will be backed by a full orchestra including steelband, percussion and voices.
Under the supervision of Smith who is also the Music Supervisor, the musical team is made up of two musical directors. The first is Gregory Wong Fo Sue, an accomplished pianist/keyboardist who has played for many musicals - including local productions of Jesus Christ Superstar, Little Mermaid, Wizard of Oz, the Sound of Music and Les Miserables. The second is Lorraine Granderson, choir mistress and music teacher at Bishop Anstey High School.
Under her charge, the 70-year-old Bishop Anstey High School choir has achieved up a considerable number of Music Festival wins and has been on several foreign tours. She also conducts the Lydian Singers.
MORE INFO
The King and I
Showtime and ticket:
April 25 at 10 am for schools
April 26 at 10 am for schools and 7.30 pm for general public
April 27 at 7.30 pm
April 28 at 5 pm
Tickets cost $225
Special packages available:
Senior Citizens: $100.00 for all shows excluding the Gala Night
Group Package: Adults buying three or more tickets pay $175.00 per ticket
Under 16s pay $75
Tickets are available at NAPA box office from noon to 6 pm daily or by calling 625-4224 or 627-1104.
n For more information, visit the First Instinct productions Facebook page FirstInstinctProductions or call 376-8277 or 461-4033.