The King and I to be revived at the London Palladium in 2018
Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I will return to the West End next summer.
The Lincoln Center's 2015 production won four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival when it originally ran on Broadway and will now transfer to London's Palladium. The show is directed by Bartlett Sher (Oslo) and will star Kelli O'Hara and Ken Watanabe.
Set in 1860s Bangkok, the piece tells the story of an unexpected romance between a British schoolteacher and the King of Siam. It features classic tunes include "Whistle a Happy Tune", "Getting to Know You" and "Shall We Dance".
Six-time nominee O'Hara won the Tony Award for Best Lead Actress when she played the role of Anna Leonowens on Broadway. Her credits include The Bridges of Madison County, South Pacific and Follies. In 2019 she will return to Broadway in Kiss Me, Kate.
Watanabe made his Tony Award-nominated Broadway debut in the role of the King in 2015, and is probably best known for his film roles in Batman Begins, Inception and Godzilla.
The King and I was last revived at the Palladium 18 years ago, starring Elaine Paige and Jason Scott Lee. The musical's original London production will celebrate its 65th anniversary next year. Further casting is to be announced.
The King and I runs at the London Palladium from 21 June until 29 September 2018.
