The King & I at Resorts World Manila

CEBU, Philippines - Many years ago, I would annually visit my brother Edu in London where he served as Tourism Attache for 13 years, and watch several stage musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and a lot more.

Truth be told, I could not imagine that some of these musicals would one day reach our shores.

The concern was always centered on a venue that would be at par if not better than the ones abroad.

The Resorts World Manila's support for Filipino performing arts is evident in how it has bravely invested in all-Filipino productions of a magnitude and scale never before seen locally. Its offering of "The Sound of Music" set a record as the longest staging of a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical in Southeast Asia. With the aggressive marketing of shows, and competitive ticket pricing, Resorts World Manila demonstrated that it is serious in securing for Philippine theater its much-needed public support , both from local and international audience. 

With the recent presentation of "The King and I", Resorts World Manila continuous its commitment to put all Filipino talents on center stage, to be recognized and appreciated.

"The King and I" is a stage musical, the fifth by the team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstine II. It is based on the 1944 novel "Anna and the King of Siam" by Margaret Landon and derives from the memoirs of Anna Leonowens who became governess to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in early 1860s. The story deals with the experiences of the British schoolteacher who is hired as part of the King's drive to modernize his country. Their relationship is marked by conflict through much of the play, as well as by a love that neither is able to express.

All main parts are played with great style and excellent singing throughout. Leo Tavarro Valdez deserves special mention for his portrayal of King. He has a confident, clear voice with absolute command of the stage and his dramatic acting skills, bring the part to life.

Monique Wilson a renowned West End theater actress takes a break from her teaching in London East 15 drama school to play the lead role of Anna Leonowens. She was a perfect Anna in every sense. Need I say more?

Support is ably provided by a lovely performance by Gina Respal as Lady Thiang, the chief wife of the king, as she does a fine job of highlighting the king's good points with a touching performance of Something Wonderful. The direction by Freddie Santos assisted by Robbie Guevara is excellent. Santos is a three-time Aliw Awardee for Best Director and was a leading stage actor in over a hundred professional stage productions.

The entire cast did a fine job of showing us the very personal conflicting emotions of the characters whilst asking the bigger question of how to promote progress when beliefs are so at odds with our ideas of justice and human rights. The beauty of this production is that the end leaves us with tears in our eyes but hope in our hearts.

The orchestra was excellent and the sound at just the right level so that singers were not in any way overshadowed, which can often happen. The costumes of the king and Anna were very elegant as expected from notable fashion designer Rajo Laurel. The costumes of the cast designed by Aksana Sidaraya were very colorful. Altogether, it was a magnificent evening which had us singing all the way home. (FREEMAN)