THE PHILIPPINES, SEPTEMBER 2012 – Miss Saigon stars Monique Wilson and Leo Tavarro Valdez took the stage last Friday night at Resorts World Manila for a world-class opening performance of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The King and I”.
Based on the 1944 novel “Anna and the King of Siam” by Margaret Landon, The King and I tells the story of a British school teacher, Anna Leonowens (Wilson), hired by King Mongkut of Siam (Valdez) to tutor his children as an effort to modernize his country. Since the premiere of its musical adaptation in 1951, The King and I has toured and been revived many times across the globe.
Resorts World Manila is reproducing the classic with an all-star, all-Filipino cast and state-of-the-art production props and set. Musical scoring is by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, under Maestro Rodel Colmenar, and the costumes were made locally by internationally-renowned Rajo Laurel. Director Freddie Santos promises a celebration of Life and Love in his take on this timeless classic.
Bo Cerrudo and Sheila Valderrama are alternating as the king and Anna respectively. Gina Respall/Apple Chiu are portraying Lady Thiang, Tanya Manalang/Marian Santiago as Tuptim and Lorenz Martinez/Floyd Tena as Lun Tha.
The opening performance was magical – from the gold and glitter of the set to the actors’ vigorous take on the characters. Friday night was a teaser to the enchantment of the next few weekends.
The King and I will be at the Newport Performing Arts Theater from September 15 to 30.
