The King and I

Another classic musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein was the choice of Paisley M & OS for its show in the Spring and what a treat it turned out to be. An exceptionally strong cast playing in Glasgow’s premier theatre attracted good audiences keen to be reacquainted with the musical gems contained in Richard Rodger’s score. Valerie Goff gave an excellent performance as Anna and on the Saturday evening I attended, the part of her son Louis was nicely played by Robbie Prentice. Bob McDevitt gave a towering portrayal of the King of Siam with David Mill as the devoted Kralahome. Lynn Stewart, playing her first leading role in the King’s Theatre, gave a touching portrayal as Lady Thiang and delighted with the highly emotional solo “Something Wonderful”.
In the romantic sub-plot, the young lovers Tuptim and Lun Tha were played tenderly by Gillian Gray and Craig McDougall with the marvelous song “We Kiss in a Shadow”. Ewan Walker gave a strong performance as Prince Chulalongkorn and the many royal children were all little characters in their own right. So numerous were those wishing to take part that the children were divided into The King’s Team (for some performances) and Anna’s Team (for the other performances).   The King’s death in Scene 5 of the Second Act was particularly highly charged with The King, Anna, the Prince, the Royal Children, Lady Thiang and the others all in attendance. The masque “The Small House of Uncle Thomas” was well choreographed with its dainty characters and in summary, the Society held to its high standards throughout the show.
 

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