The following review appeared in the Herald on 28th May 2002.
'The King and I' a smash hit
by Ian Hoskings
At last a musical that not only has stood the test of time, but is being staged at Reps Theatre with all the trimmings, lavish costumes and settings, a chorus of 38 children and adults, a live band and in Mark Turnbull, a director who makes 'The King and I' a smash hit.
National ballet also chip in with a delightful Siamese version of Uncle Tom's Cabin in act 2, and contributes to making this show cause a glow to turn inside you as you allow the Rodgers & Hammerstein songs and story to unfold and enchant in the hands of a well chosen cast.
I had not yet heard of Tim Watson before. Yet, as he plays the King of Siam with an autocratic presence and a voice that rings true. He is a find indeed.
Irene Van Niekerk's Anna, the English tutor to the king's 67 children is likewise excellent as the gutsy young lady who dares to stand up for what she believes before a monarch whose word is law.
My one criticism is that the famous 'Shall We Dance?' number in act 2, is far too short.
More could have been made of it and I have seen many versions of this show.
This apart, Turnbull has made the most of his supporting singers, especially the Prince, the heir to the throne, tall Tendai Nguni, who can sing and has a fine stage presence.
Others who merit mention are Sophie Watson as a concubine who falls in love with Lun (Mark Turnbull) and sings splendidly.
Fiona Garrity as the queen; Alexander Mushore and Graham Crutchley as the English ambassador who came to see if the King of Siam is a barbarian or not.
A capacity Friday night house entirely endorsed my own high acclaim of this production with their applause.
It runs to June 1 and is too good to miss.