The King and I is without question one of the most enduring and heartwarming works in the repertoire of American musical theater. First staged in 1951 during the golden era of the Broadway musical, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is fondly remembered not only for such songs as Getting To Know You and Shall We Dance but for the immortal performance Yul Brynner turned in as the King of Siam.
Tonight, perhaps, we will discover a new Yul Brynner in this marvelous multinational cast. More than 150 people have generously devoted their time and talent to create this production. Against such a backdrop of international cooperation that brings The King and I to life, the play's storyline of East meeting West is particularly fitting.
STARS is to be commended for making a very positive contribution to better understanding between Americans and Singaporeans, while at the same time presenting the best of American theater, music, and dance to both the American and Singaporean communities.
Mrs. Orr and I congratulate STARS for staging such a first-class musical and take great pleasure in welcoming you to this performance.
– Robert D. Orr
