The King and I (musical)

"The King and I" is a musical inspired by the real-life relationship between British schoolteacher Anna Leonowens and King Mongkut of Siam (now Thailand) in the 1860s. Anna is hired to educate the king’s children and navigate cultural differences. The story explores themes of respect, love, and the clash of Western and Eastern values. Notable for its memorable songs, including "Shall We Dance?" and "Getting to Know You," the musical highlights the complexities of colonialism and personal connections while showcasing the richness of Thai culture. It was originally created by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.