The King And I

Summer 2003

Character Descriptions

Principal Male Characters

The King*

Baritone/Bass; 30s to 50s

Strong character actor with presence.  Must be able to move gracefully and project royal character.  Shaved head NOT necessary.

Lois Leonowens*

Alto boy vocal range; 10 to 14 years old

Anna’s son who accompanies his mother to Siam.  Needs to be able to sing and move.

Lun Tha*

Tenor Baritone; late teens to early 20s

Emissary to the Prince of Burma and doomed lover of Tuptim.

Prince Chululongkorn*

Alto boy vocal range; 10 to 14 years old

Arrogant Crown Prince of Siam and one of Anna’s most vocal students

The Kralahome

Non-singing; 40s to 50s

Imposing, right-hand man to and adviser of the King.  Strong character actor required.

The Interpreter

Non-singing; any adult

Member of the King’s entourage.  Sings in ensemble.

Captain Orton

Non-singing; 40s to 60s

Seasoned English seafarer who brings Anna to Siam.  Can sing in ensemble.

Sir Edward Ramsay

Non-singing; 40s to 50s

Distinguished British statesman and old family friend of Anna.  Can sing in ensemble.

Phra Alak

Non-singing; any adult male

Secretary and chief flunky to the King.  Sings in the ensemble

Principal Female Characters

Anna Leonowens*

Alto or Soprano; 30s to 40s

Strong-willed, English school teacher who travels to Siam with her son to assume the duties of tutor to the royal household

Tuptim*

Soprano; late teens to early 20s

Beautiful high-spirited gift to the King from the Prince of Burma and doomed lover of Lun Tha.

Lady Thiang*

Mezzo-soprano; 30s to 50s

Favorite wife of the King and mother of the Crown Prince.  Must have strong voice and be a strong character actress.

Princess Ying Yaowlak

Girl vocal range; 8 to 10 years old

Young Princess and member of the royal school children.  Sings in the ensemble and needs to read for audition.

*Singing audition for director required

Ensemble

Men, Women and Children

All vocal ranges; ages 7 and up

Brief singing and dancing audition