Heights Youth Theatre presents 'The King and I'

Dream a dream of a time past. It is the 1860s, and you are in the exotic kingdom of Siam (now Thailand). Imagine that you are the ruler of this kingdom filled with golden palaces, elephants in the streets and children everywhere. You have been safe and happy in your own little corner of the world, yet the world begins to creep in on you. What wonders will you discover? Based on a true story, "The King and I" tells the story of the king of Siam, who recognizes that the world outside of his realm is changing, and hires a teacher from England who will tutor his family about the world.

Now, imagine that you are that teacher, a young mother from England. You and your son are entering an exotic place. The king has 37 wives and more than 400 children! Do you speak your mind or only say what is expected of you? Has the king met his match in the spirited Englishwoman, or the reverse? Should he keep his customs or adopt new ones that would throw his world out of balance? How much power should a woman have? How about a man? What are you willing to do for love if it is forbidden? It’s "a puzzlement!”

You can experience the vibrant colors, dazzling dance, star-crossed lovers, political puppetry and the “et cetera, et cetera, et cetera” of Heights Youth Theatre's "The King and I," directed by Treva Offutt. The cast includes 90 talented local students in grades 1 through 12—many from University Heights and Cleveland Heights—and five professional musicians playing the memorablel score. Cast members include Matthew McAllister (King), Eliza Sindelar (Anna), Ryan Vincent (Louis), Katie Wilkinson (Lady Tiang), Alexis Martinez (Tuptim), Sean Kelley (Lun Tha), John Berner (Kralahome), Lia Coyle (Prince Chulalongkorn), Yume Ndhlovu (Princess Ying Yaowalak), Alexis Marinelli (Captain Orton), Brycen Hunt (Sir Edward Ramsey) and Corey Grubar (Interpreter).

"The King and I" runs Fridays, March 2, 9 and 16 at 7 p.m.; Saturdays, March 3, 10 and 17 at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, March 11 at 2 p.m. at Wiley Middle School auditorium, 2181 Miramar Blvd., University Heights. Tickets are $9 general admission, $8 seniors and children under six. Cash or check only. The box office opens 45 minutes prior to performances. For details, visit www.heightsyouththeatre.com.