*This post is written in partnership with Broadway in Portland. I received complimentary tickets to the show. Opinions are 100% my own.
When I was growing up, my mom and I would watch the movie The King and I every time my dad went out of town. I grew up with “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance” perpetually in my head. So naturally, when I learned that The King and I would be coming to Portland – I was thrilled.
My mom and I were able to attend opening night of this can’t miss theatrical production.
Set in 1860’s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children.
Angela Baumgardner portrayed the strong, forward-thinking, and self-assured Anna with grace, beauty, and perfect comedic timing, while Pedro Ka’awaloa breathed new life into the slightly insecure (but likable) King who is struggling (but determined) to do what is right. Together this pair just sparkled on stage as Anna and the King of Siam. Their chemistry was magical and dynamic, etc. etc.
Portland native (woohoo!!) Deanna Choi depicted head-wife Lady Thiang with elegance. I appreciated that she was able to portray Lady Thiang as more than “just another subservient wife.” It was made clear through simple nuances like tone and body language, that Lady Thiang truly believed in and loved her husband and child.
As a child, one of my favorite parts of the film was Tuptim’s play – and the theatrical version did not disappoint! I loved seeing culture come to life on stage. This is where the incredible set directors and costume designers absolutely shined.
With a stellar ensemble cast, incredible music (and this cast can SING!!), and a storyline that still captivates and delights, The King and I was truly one of the most enjoyable shows I’ve had the opportunity to see. (Maybe even top 3?! It was just THAT good! You must see it!)
The King and I will be in Portland, Oregon through Sunday! Act quickly and get your tickets!!! (There are still seats available for all remaining shows as of time of posting!)
The remaining showtimes are as follows:
Friday, January 11, 7:30pm (Audio Described Performance)
Saturday, January 12, 2:00pm and 7:30pm
Sunday, January 13, 1:00pm and 6:30pm (Open Caption Performance)
Accessible seating for patrons using wheelchairs and their companion(s) is available at all performances. You can purchase wheelchair seating by phone, in person, and online. Ample seating chairs are available upon request. Assisted listening devices are available at all performances. For additional information on ADA seating and services, personal assistance selecting accessible seats or for more information about accessibility, please contact the Broadway in Portland Box Office by phone at 503-417-0573 (M-F, 10a-5pm) or email Broadway@PortlandOpera.org
Tickets can be purchased:
www.BroadwayInPortland.com, or at Portland’5 Box Office: 800-273-1530
If you are unable to see The King and I, I HIGHLY urge you to visit www.BroadwayInPortland.com and check out the remaining shows in the FABULOUS 2019 season! (Why you wouldn’t want to head to the theater this year is a puzzlement!) 😉 There are some incredible shows headed our way (ahem…Aladdin and Wicked to name two!) Musical theater makes the world a better place. It is a shared experience like no other. Get your tickets to an upcoming show!
For more information about The King and I , including the 2018–2019 touring schedule, please visit TheKingandITour.com
