THE KING & I Opens 6/17 at The Belmont Theatre

York Little Theatre, now named The Belmont Theatre, will present the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein's THE KING & I, a musical on the main stage, June 17-19 & 23-26. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, to serve as tutor to the king's many children and wives. With both keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, they both grow to understand and respect one another in a truly unique love story. The classic musical includes well known favorites including "Whistle A Happy Tune," "Getting To Know You," "We Kiss In A Shadow," "Something Wonderful," and the show stopping "Shall We Dance," to name a few.

THE KING & I is directed by Artistic Director Rene Staub. Vocal Direction is by Jacquie Sutton and Choreography is by Andrew Smith. The cast features Michael Anderson as the King who last portrayed Sweeney Todd on the YLT stage and Stephanie Walsh as Anna Leonowens. The King's eldest wife, Lady Thiang, will be portrayed by Tara Beitzel. The ill-fated couple Tuptim and Lun Tha will be played by Lauren Ritter and Eli Weary. Anna's son will be portrayed by Jacob Schmitt and Prince Chulalonkorn will be played by Noah Austin. The Kralahome will be played by Bradley Haines. A large cast of almost 60 includes over 20 young princes and princesses and 13 technical dancers, featuring some of the area's best dance talent. Rebecca Smith-Kingston just won the title of York's Distinguished Young Woman. Her sister Jordan Smith-Kingston won the same title two years ago. They both portray king's wives as well as technical dancers in the 5-minute ballet at the top of the second act.

Patrons are urged to not wait to purchase tickets. Some of the past productions have sold out before they opened! Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays and 3pm on Sundays. The Thursday performance has more seating availability at this time. Patrons can save $2 off regular admission price if they purchase tickets prior to opening night. Group sales are available. Go to ylt.org or call 854-5715 for advance tickets and more information. As we transition to The Belmont Theatre, ylt.org will still take you to our website, but our new web address will be thebelmont.org. Tickets will be available at the door one hour before the performance, if available.

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