Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I harks back to the Golden Age of musicals and you can see it in Norwich before it heads to the West End. 

The show debuted on Broadway in 1951, with a film released in 1956 starring Deborah Kerr as Anna Leonowens and Yul Brynner as the King of Siam.

This new production stars Annalene Beechey and Darren Lee in the title roles, with Maria Coyne the alternate Anna. 

Norwich Evening News: Annalene Beechey as Anna Leonowens in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith PhotographyAnnalene Beechey as Anna Leonowens in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography (Image: Pamela Raith)

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Set in the late 1800s, strong-willed schoolteacher and widower Anna Leonowens arrives in Bangkok to tutor the King of Siam's children, with the young performers in this new production absolutely superb. 

Norwich Evening News: Annalene Beechey as Anna Leonowens with the young performers in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith PhotographyAnnalene Beechey as Anna Leonowens with the young performers in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography (Image: Pamela Raith)

To begin with, there is a clash of cultures between the two main characters, but the King starts to change his ways as he gets to know his Western visitor.

The show tackled sexism and inequality while still providing many funny moments.

However, there were also times when it showed its age with an underlying theme of colonialism. 

On opening night in Norwich, Coyne starred as Anna and commanded the stage with her no-nonsense attitude, pitch-perfect vocals and glorious costumes.

Norwich Evening News: Darren Lee as the King Of Siam in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography Darren Lee as the King Of Siam in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography (Image: Pamela Raith)

Lee held his own opposite Coyne and the chemistry between the two characters was electric.

The sumptuous set was effortlessly transformed from a boat to various rooms in the palace and it is packed with memorable songs such as Whistle a Happy Tune and Shall We Dance.

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Marienella Phillips had standout vocals as Tuptim, though her secret love story could have been developed more. 

Norwich Evening News: Marienella Phillips at Tuptim in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography Marienella Phillips at Tuptim in The King and I Picture: Pamela Raith Photography (Image: Pamela Raith)

I also felt that a few of the scenes could have been shortened, particularly in The Small House of Uncle Thomas ballet, as the three-hour run time seemed excessive.

Overall, it was a feast for the eyes and ears and it is on tour before heading to the Dominion Theatre in London's West End in early 2024. 

The King and I is at Norwich Theatre Royal until November 18.