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The King And I

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The King And I
DeAndria Meredith
Mr. Henry
Intro to Theatre
17 April 2014
Forbidden Love, Success, and Empowerment
The King and I, based on Margaret Landon’s 1944 novel, Anna and the King of Siam, made its theatrical debut on March 29, 1951 at Broadway’s St. James Theatre. Composed by Richard Rogers and written (book and lyrics) by Oscar Hammerstein II, The King and I was the duo’s fifth production, brought to them by the eventual leading lady. The musical takes place in 1862 Bangkok, Siam, later known as Thailand.
The King and I depicts the story of a school teacher, Anna Leonowens, who comes to Bangkok, along with her son, Louis, to teach the King of Siam’s children Western ideas and philosophies. Among arrival, Anna realizes that her requests and opinions are disregarded and neglected by the King, which angers her greatly. However, before she leaves, she meets the King’s children, who persuade her to stay.
The King’s gift from Burma, a slave girl named Tuptim, secretly involves herself not with the King, but with Lun Tha, her escort to Siam. After a bitter argument between the King and Anna, the King learns that a British diplomat, Sire Edward Ramsay is coming to assess the King’s hold on his throne. Anna suggests a European dinner for the diplomat, which proves to be a success. And during an English dance lesson, the King and Anna become aware of a strong romantic attraction. Unfortunately, the moment is short-lived, due to the news that Lun Tha and Tuptim have tried to escape the palace, Lun Tha is killed, the same fate awaits Tuptim, but Anna’s persuasion saves Tuptim’s life, at the cost of her own job. Anna is asked to leave, but before she does she receives a note from the King, who thanks her for her help and tells that he is dying. Anna returns and she and the King’s wives and children surround the King as he dies, and Anna realizes that she loves them and she decides to stay.
Upon its opening the musical was an immediate hit, winning 5 Tony Awards in its three year
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