Step into the grandeur of 19th-century Siam in the enchanting production of the beloved musical The King and I, now showing on the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre‘s stage through May 19, 2024.
Transporting audiences back to 1862, this timeless tale, based on Margaret Landon’s novel Anna and the King of Siam, unfolds against the backdrop of the Royal Palace in Bangkok. Directed by Brian Jose, this rendition of the classic musical promises a captivating journey filled with rich cultural exploration and heartfelt performances.
The King and I at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre
At the heart of the story is the unlikely bond between British widow Anna Leonowens and the enigmatic King Mongkut. Summoned to the Royal Palace to tutor the King’s many children and wives, Anna finds herself immersed in a world that challenges her preconceptions. As the King seeks Anna’s guidance to navigate the complexities of the modern era, their relationship blossoms into a tale of mutual understanding and respect, transcending cultural boundaries.
One of the highlights of “The King and I” is its exquisite portrayal of tradition and change, beautifully captured through Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s iconic songs such as “Getting To Know You,” “Something Wonderful,” and the unforgettable “Shall We Dance.” Under Brian Jose’s direction, the production delves deeper into the complexities of its characters, offering a nuanced portrayal that resonates with contemporary audiences.
The cast, led by the talented duo of Hannah Louise Fernandes as Anna and Jae Woo as King Mongkut, delivers captivating and emotionally resonant performances. Making their Beef & Boards debut alongside them are Bryan Chan as Lun Tha, Alice Jihyun Kim as Tuptim, and Nathalie Cruz as Lady Thiang, each bringing a unique perspective to their roles.
Notably, the production boasts an international cast, with performers hailing from Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. This diverse ensemble adds authenticity to the portrayal of Siam’s vibrant culture, enriching the audience’s experience with depth and authenticity.
Is The King and I Good for Kids
Taking your children to a dinner theater show can be a delightful and exhilarating experience for the whole family. Beef & Boards offers amazing children’s theatre, and my artsy 11-year-old loved the show. His favorite parts were the colorful costumes, the interesting sets, the music, and, of course, the buffet. He also enjoyed that many of the cast members were kids!
Remember that not all shows may be suitable for all ages. Beef & Boards offers a $6 discount per ticket for children ages 3-15, and children under age 3 are not permitted to attend this show.
If you want to make the best of your dinner theatre experience, we have these 11 tips to make your time at Beef & Boards even more enjoyable for you and your kids!
The Buffet for The King and I at Beef & Boards
Always a show-stopper, Chef Larry Stoops’ menu is inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine from The King and I. Our favorites were Cashew Chicken, Vegetable Stir Fry, and Chili Garlic Noodles. And, of course, don’t forget about their incredible salad bar and Beef & Boards’ signature main course, the Slow-Roasted Beef.
The signature cocktail also incorporates the Asian flavors of lemongrass, coconut, and ginger. “Thai One On” can be served as a virgin cocktail or paired with vodka or bourbon. This drink was made for bourbon, but try it both ways!
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre
Beef & Boards Indianapolis is on Michigan Road near 465. It is located behind the new shopping and dining center near the Indianapolis Pyramids buildings. The address is 9301 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
Ticket prices range from $55 to $82 and include the dinner buffet, fruit & salad bar, and select
beverages.
With its breathtaking visuals, stirring performances, and profound storytelling, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s “The King and I” production is a must-see theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable journey into the heart of Siam, where tradition meets transformation and love knows no boundaries.
For ticket information and show schedule, visit beefandboards.com or call the Box Office at (317) 872-9664. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more.
Photos from The King and I are courtesy of Beef & Boards and taken by Indy Ghost Light.
