The King and I to return to the West End with Helen George and Darren Lee

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I will return to the West End in early 2024.

The musical tells the story of Anna, a widowed British schoolteacher who is hired by the King of Siam to help modernize his country. It features some of the finest songs ever written, including classic tunes like “Getting to Know You,” “Whistle a Happy Tune”, and “Shall We Dance.”

The musical features a company of over 50 performers alongside a full-scale orchestra. It is directed by Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, who has previously helmed Broadway hits like South Pacific and My Fair Lady. The book and lyrics are by Oscar Hammerstein II, and the music is by Richard Rodgers, with sets by Michael Yeargan, costumes by Catherine Zuber, and orchestrations by Robert Russell Bennett. The musical supervision is by Stephen Ridley, and the casting direction is by James Orange.

Helen George, best known for her role as Trixie in the hit BBC One series Call The Midwife, will star as Anna in the West End production. Darren Lee will star as The King, and further casting will be announced in due course. Tickets are on sale now. 

George said: “I am so delighted to continue to play the formidable Anna Leonowens in this incredible production of The King and I. I have really enjoyed playing such an incredibly strong character whilst on tour, but to play her on the West End stage is an honour.”

Producer Howard Panter said: “Our last London residency of this multi award-winning production at the London Palladium broke Box Office records, received critical acclaim and enjoyed standing ovations at every show – we were overwhelmed with the rapturous response. 

“So we are thrilled to bring Helen George and Darren Lee who played the King in the Broadway production to the Dominion next year and offer West End audiences the chance to experience this wonderous production once more. This really is musical theatre at its very best.”

The show runs at the Dominion Theatre from 20 January 2024, with booking dates through to 2 March.  Tickets are on sale now here.