Tue 17 December 2019
Following a majestic year travelling far off lands at home and overseas, the wonderfully epic The King and I rolled into Birmingham last week for a spectacular Christmas season at the Alexandra Theatre.
Press night was a suitably festive affair with a brass band playing Christmas carols as audiences arrived, a special The King and I Christmas tree bauble for VIP guests (including British singer Jamelia), pigs in blanket canapes, prosecco and festive cupcakes at the after-show party and a royal blue carpet outside the theatre.
Continuing to perform as Anna, is West End leading lady Annalene Beechey and reprising his critically acclaimed Broadway performance as The King is Jose Llana. The two stars have been wowing audiences as the production embarked on its international tour earlier this year.
In a review for the Birmingham Press, Simon Hale said: “Annalene Beechey and Jose Llana make a perfectly matched duo in the title roles, with their changing relationship explored in a fully believable way through their outstanding acting, singing and dancing skills.”
He added: “The costumes and sets are gloriously colourful and exotic, and the memorable score is played with real flair and verve by a live orchestra. No wonder the opening night performance brought a standing ovation and a roar of approval at the curtain call.”
The greatest musical from the golden age of musicals – adored by the public and critics alike – with one of the finest scores ever written including; Whistle a Happy Tune, Getting to Know You, and Shall We Dance, and featuring a company of over 50 world-class performers and a full-scale orchestra.
The King and I runs at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 4 January 2020 before continuing its UK tour.
Additional plans are underway for productions into India, China, Australia, Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Manilla.
