We're talking about Rodgers & Hammerstein's The King & I (1951), a complicated and beautiful show about cultural imperialism, gender emancipation and the dangers of the white savior complex.
We talk about:
- Divas: The rise of the “star vehicle” for a diva actor, and the interesting racial & cultural background of Anna Leonowens (and Gertrude Lawrence, the actor who played her).
- Colonialism: The intersection of colonialism with Western values of equality, and when a “liberating” culture becomes an imposed culture that does violence in the name of greater freedom.
- Forgiveness: The nature of forgiveness, and the possibility of real relationship across cultural, gender and ideological difference.
You’ll hear:
- Gertrude Lawrence singing “Getting to Know You” from the Original Broadway Cast recording.
- Lea Salonga and Peabo Bryson singing “We Kiss In A Shadow” from the 1993 Studio recording.
- Ruthie Ann Miles singing “Something Wonderful” from the 2015 Broadway Revival Cast Recording.
Continue the conversation with Peter (@pgeinvan) and Nathan (@nathan_lerud) on Twitter, and follow the Gospel of Musical Theatre on Instagram or Twitter @gospelofmt!
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