Highlights of "THE KING & I"

CEBU, Philippines - The familiarity of almost all of the songs, performed with the respected Manila Philharmonic Orchestra,made me sing or hum along, as the music swirled grandly around the audience like a pashmina on a chilly night. Until now, weeks later, I still catch myself mentally singing songs from "The King & I!" The full use of the humongous LED screen - supposedly the biggest in Southeast Asia - made the sets three-dimensional, aiding the imagination of the audience. It is the unique tradition of theater to suspend the belief of its audience, while the actors must raise the make-believe into a "reality" enhanced by lights and sounds.

Director Freddie R. Santos asked me to watch the Saturday matinee - if I could still get a ticket! Some may not be aware that Freddie was a Sacred Heart School for Boys student when he did his first walk-on role in their annual fundraiser where I played the female lead. My leading man was Ramon Isberto (now with Smart Communications). Freddie Santos invites fellow Cebuanos: "Enjoy royalty and romance, come to Siam!"

And now, the play! More than anything else, it is a play about love in all its aspects. Hence, my most memorable moment is that of Tuptim and Lun Tha as they sing "We Kiss in the Shadows," with an exquisite shadow dance in the background. It captures the romance of the play and the sadness of the lovers. My heart beat faster while I watched Floyd Tena looking so enamored as he sang to Marian Santiago. (Because of the big screens, the audience can catch the acting prowess of the actors up close). Tena’s facial expression and body language expressed his "love" for Tuptim. I found this somehow lacking in Lorenz Martinez - although his voice is better and I think he has a better stage presence overall. He seemed uncomfortable with the costumes and the headdress of Tanya Manalang got in the way during the intimate scenes…that was how it looked to me.

And yes, the children! They are the timeless magnets of "The King & I" wherever it is presented. This production shows the very promising talents of Anton Posadas (Prince Chulalongkorn) and James Gabriel Ketcher (Louis Leonowens) as they sing and act so naturally. Their singing voices are remarkable, especially Posadas. These boys commanded attention and drew applause during their scenes together.

Leo Tavarro Valdez displayed a riveting stage presence at all times…even at his dying scene. Theater veteran Monique Wilson exhibited the discipline and talent that have made her a Repertory Philippines, Broadway and Drury Lane star.

It is the other memorable moment of the play that usually brings tears to my eyes: the last scene where the King is dying and upon his death, the passing of the torch to his son, Prince Chulalongkorn. It was the matinee performance of Bimbo Cerrudo (He got my attention during his "Joseph the Dreamer" days) that moved me to tears. Unlike Leo who remained regal to the very end, Bo let go of his imperious ways and became just a lonely, sick old man. Thus, the scene became so poignant and engaging. Here, young Posadas, in turn, was able to capture the moment for a fitting finale.

Bravo! (FREEMAN)