The Liverpool Empire audience was on its feet after classic musical The King and I came to a close.
The beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein show, based on Margaret Landon's novel Anna and the King of Siam, tells the story of Anna Leonowens, a British school teacher, who is invited by the King of Siam - now Thailand - to educate his many children and wives.
The clash of cultures makes for some funny - and dated - interactions, with Anna and the King going on to form a complicated friendship, where they come to appreciate one another's differences.
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This production, directed by Bartlett Sher, sees Call the Midwife star Helen George don the voluminous dresses made famous by Deborah Kerr in the 1956 musical film, while star of stage and screen Darren Lee takes on the role of the King, made famous by Yul Brynner.
Both leads are perfectly pitched, with George immensely charming and compassionate while still able to evoke a quiet and determined strength in Anna. Lee manages to bring a sense of vulnerability to the stubborn King, a role which could easily lend itself to harmful stereotypes. Their chemistry is infectious and brings a warmth and realism to the budding relationship between their characters.
Michael Yeargan's set design is awe-inspiring and impressive from start to finish, with a vast and imposing boat juxtaposed flawlessly with delicate florals that descend from above the stage to provide the backdrop for the romance between star-crossed lovers Tuptim, played by Marienella Phillips, and Lun Tha, played by Dean John-Wilson.
Their scenes are tender and sweet, with both actors ensuring the audience is firmly on their side. Their voices are angelic - and if John-Wilson isn't cast as a Disney prince in the future, then the world will be missing out.
The choreography by Jerome Robbins and Christopher Gattelli is completely stunning, fusing traditional Thai dance movements with modern ones in a seamless and stylish fashion. Naturally, the iconic score is magical with hits like 'Getting to Know You' and 'Shall we Dance?' delighting the entire audience. I still have 'Getting to Know You' playing on repeat in my head today.
Though visually remarkable, the show does feel bloated at times. Some of the sequences could be trimmed down without losing any of the important elements required to tell the story.
The show is a classic for a reason, but that doesn't mean it's completely without its faults. In particular, some of the dialogue is a tad toe-curling in 2023. There's many sexist tropes which are treated as comedic, without ever seemingly being questioned, while bigotry runs amok.
The portrayal of Asian culture has, rightfully, faced scrutiny in recent years, though the characters - from both the East and the West - do learn from one another, without the production obviously pushing one culture forward as "correct".
The King and I is definitely dated, and very of its time. Still, its dazzling set and multi-talented cast ensures there's plenty of enchantment and whimsy throughout. The show has delighted audiences for decades, and I'd imagine it will continue to do so - especially with a creative team as brilliant as this one.
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