The captivating story of The King And I is set in late 19th century. The British widow and governess Anna Leonowens is brought to the court of Siam as tutor to the King’s children. Once within the sumptuous Royal Palace of Bangkok, Anna and the King grow to understand and respect one another and learn about each other’s cultures.
The love story of The King And I is told with one of the most glorious and memorable scores ever written. Much-loved songs and sweeping melodies from the show played, in this production, by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra include: Shall We Dance, March Of The Siamese Children, I Whistle A Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers and the unforgettable Getting To Know You.
Maria Friedman leads the cast of The King And I as Anna. The talented musical theatre performer has credits that include Chicago, Sunday In The Park With George, Sweeney Todd and The Woman In White. She won her first Laurence Olivier Award in 1995 for her solo show By Special Arrangement, before winning a further two Oliviers for performances in Passion and Ragtime. Most recently she has returned with another solo show, Maria Friedman: Rearranged at the Trafalgar Studio 1.
Freidman is joined in the cast of The King And I by Daniel Dae Kim, who has starred in hit series such as Angel, 24 and Lost.
For more about The King And I at the Royal Albert Hall, read the First Night Feature.
Looking to see some musical theatre? Find out more about London musicals.