Little Theatre of Fall River gives 'The King and I' royal treatment

By Lorraine Lucciola, Standard-Times correspondent

It's a beautiful thing when all the pieces of a show lock neatly into place. Such is the case with the Little Theatre of Fall River's production of Rogers and Hammerstein's "The King and I."

Under the ambitious direction of Jeff Belanger, the musical successfully comes together. All 134 cast members and crew pull together to deliver an exciting evening of theater at the Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center Theater at BCC.

Paul Allard, as the King of Siam, humanizes his portrayal with delicate nuances of vulnerability and the expected bravado befitting a supreme ruler. He gives us a stylized, thinking King.

His transitions are beautifully timed, especially in scenes with Anna (Tracy Gendreau), where his harsh judgment is questioned and tested.

Mr. Allard holds our attention and affection. Although the role of the King is not primarily a singing one, Mr. Allard brings to the expositional tune, "A Puzzlement," his vocal strength, and compassionately shares his thoughts about what it means to lead.

Ms. Gendreau graces the stage as Anna Leonowens, a governess sent to Siam to teach English and modern social customs to a charming and vastly different culture.

Mrs. Gendreau's mere presence is charismatic. She gives a picture-perfect performance. The immense vocal talent she brings to the role is steady, sure and generous. She is a master of lyrical phrasing.

The playing between Mr. Allard and Mrs. Gendreau proceeds smoothly, like delicate clockwork. They compliment each other in every way. These actors are at the top of their game.

Supporting players are equally impressive in their performances. Maryann Goulart as Lady Thiang ("head wife"), is a solid addition to any production. In "The King and I," she exudes wisdom and grace as the subservient spouse.

Lady Thiang understands the intricacies and dilemmas her husband faces as King. She is also keenly aware of her place in her culture and in her personal relationship to him. Mrs. Goulart demonstrates these qualities, carefully weaving this character's knowledge into a rich fabric of acceptance, humor and strength. Her delivery of "Something Wonderful" is one of the most poignant moments in the show.

Anna's son, Louis, is played by Andrew Correia with a maturity and poise not often found in 13-year-old youngsters. Louis is well-mannered, articulate, yet sometimes ruffled by foreign customs. Andrew gives us a sure interpretation of this character.

Jacob Miller as Prince Chululongkorn gives a remarkably grounded performance. His consistent demeanor makes us believe he is really a prince and heir to the Siamese throne.

Chululongkorn and Louis are, in reality, still just adolescent boys, regardless of their social standings. This, too, is nicely conveyed in their scenes together. Their reprise of "A Puzzlement" is one of those enjoyable and heartfelt moments.

Tuptim, the latest addition to the King's court, is played by Karen Faxon. Her delivery is appropriately innocent and demure, especially in her musical moments in "My Lord and Master" and "We Kiss in the Shadows" with LunTha (John Ashley) Mr. Ashey is another steady player. He is a sincere and gentle match for Ms. Faxon.

As the King's emissary, guardian, and advisor, the Kralaholm, Azrin Rasp performs a role which requires more speaking lines and blocking than we are used to seeing from this actor.

The result is a fine change of pace. Mr. Rasp clearly conveys this character's dutiful respect to the King and to the delicate balance hehimself exercises in the court.

Eighty-four Siamese children scamper across the set as if the royal palace was their playground. You will be amazed, however, at how graceful they are at knowing and carrying out their movements. They are, of course, guided by a crew of 23 wives, who not only fill the stage with color and fun, but also diligently check the movements of the children.

Little Theatre's offering of "The King and I" is a technically complete entity. It is truly the sum of its creative parts, including artistic direction (Jeff Belanger with stage manager, Kathy Castro), musical direction (Jane Fiore Bigelow), choreography (Janice MacDonald) and elaborate and authentic costumes (Fran Petisca and Tom Marcello).

Performances of "The King and I" will be given at 8 tonight and 2 p.m. tomorrow in the Margaret Jackson Arts Center at Bristol Community College, 333 Elsbree St., Fall River. Tickets are $15, $12 for students and seniors and $5 for children 12 and under. For reservation information, call (508) 675-1 852.

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