Society's appeal for The King and I (From Thurrock Gazette)

Society's appeal for The King and I

7:30am Saturday 18th August 2012 in News

THURROCK Operatic Society will take on the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The King and I for its next show in March.

The society is hoping to repeat the success of its production of Oliver at the Thameside Theatre in Grays, which saw more than 40 children perform as part of the society’s new youth development policy.

The youngsters have now got the theatre bug and are keen to get involved in the next show, which is just as well because the King of Siam, who the story is based on, had 68 children, as well as 28 wives!

TOPS, which has been staging shows for more than 50 years, and does two full-scale musicals a year, is always on the lookout for new talent.

The first round of auditions for The King and I will take place on Sunday, September 16.

Show director Ann Sullivan said: “This wonderfully moving and colourful musical is a gem in the Rodgers and Hammerstein catalogue, full of opulence and sentiment and to make it work the children need to come in all shapes, sizes and ages.

“We need young ladies to play the King’s wives, older ladies to play their matrons, men sporting six packs would be wonderful and dancers to take on the iconic ballet and the story telling of Uncle Thomas Small Cabin, a musical theatre masterpiece.”

The group’s open audition process means anyone can get involved, whatever their experience.

If you would like more information about the society, the show, or the auditions, call 01375 371722.

Alternatively, go online to www.topsonstage.co.uk to download an information pack.