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The King and I by Christian Community Theater For the third time this summer, Something Wonderful happened on the top of Mt. Helix. Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I will close Christian Community Theater's summer productions. And it closes the season on a strong, if somber, note. This very popular play is based loosely on the real-life story of Anna Leonowens and her experience as a teacher in the palace of nineteenth century Siam (history buffs can click here for more information). Anna, an English widow, takes the position of educating King Mongut's children (he has over sixty of them!). She soon becomes much more than an instructor, assuming roles as an important advisor to the King, the confidant of two secret Young Lovers, and the treasured friend of her pupils, the King's children. But her complicated relationship with the King is the crux of the story, as the strong-willed king and teacher deal with employment issues, differences in opinion regarding gender roles, and romantic tension. CCT put together another deep and talent-rich cast. Mary Jaeb, a graduate of Palomar College, was excellent in her role as Anna. Mary holds a Masters in music, has performed with the North County Orchestra, won second place in the Denver Lyric Opera competition, was a regional finalist in the Metropolitan Opera Guild competition, and teaches voice to local youth. Her lovely voice was perfect as the proper yet romantic English woman. Playing opposite her was Gary Chun as the King. Though busy as a local pediatrician, he still finds time to participate in the theatre. He is reprising his role as the King of Siam, which he also performed in 1993 for CCT. Gary's performance was especially riveting in the climactic scene in which he must decide between punishing his concubine or showing the mercy and understanding that Anna expects of him. Perhaps the most touching scenes were those performed by the two young lovers from Burma, Tup Tim (Summer Sablan) and Lun Tha (Alexander Joseph Reeve). Their poignant We Kiss in a Shadow and romantic I Have Dreamed completely captivated the audience and were rewarded by a couple of the biggest ovations of the evening. Alexander studied drama at Helix High School and music with Carolee Thornburgh. He intends to go to U.C. Irvine and major in Vocal Performance. This was Summer's first performance in a few years, but she grew up in Christian Youth Theater (CYT) and CCT as both a performer and a teacher. She is already at U.C. Irvine, where she is majoring in Psychology and Social Behavior. One of the biggest surprises was the terrific job done by all of the children in the play. Anna's son Louis, played by Brent Cannons, is a twelve-year old with the stage presence and singing ability that belies his years. Brent is yet another shining example of CYT's fantastic acting program. He is also the voice student of Mary Jaeb, giving student and teacher an opportunity to work closely together on the stage. In addition to Brent, all the King's kids were endearing. You'll especially fall in love with little five-year old Autumn Aragon who has a few big one-liners in this, her very first performance. The Royal Dancers got to showcase their talents in the Small House of Uncle Thomas scene. Choreographers Vivian Valade and KC Grulli put together a great routine. And speaking of backstage personnel, a very special mention for Costume Designers Elayn Thoeny and Tamara Myers. They always do exceptional work, but this was probably the most dazzling and aesthetically pleasing costuming I've ever been a witness to. You guys are something else! Looking forward to next summer! Rob Hopper San Diego Playbill ~ Cast ~
Anna: Mary Jaeb King: Gary Chun Lady Thiang: Karen Lew Tup Tim: Summer Sablan Lun Tha: Alexander-Joseph Reeve Prince Chulalongkorn: Frederick Cheung Louis: Brent Cannons The Kralahome: Nuvi Mehta Sir Edward Ramsey/Capt. Orton: Don Evans Eliza: Francine Maigue Topsy: Marianne Nevitt Uncle Tom: Michelle Millum Phra Alack/Interpreter: Dean Vito Simon Legree: Tony Aguilar Little Eva: Heide Sugawa Angel/George: Sarah Knoll-Gentry - Royal Dancers - Erica Bruce Megan Dreesan Natalie Emmons Sarah Knoll-Gentry Kristel Anne Lozano Francine Maigue Michelle Millum Marianne Nevitt Gailey Mae Palado Heide Sugawa Danielle Underwood - Priests/Guards - Tony Aguilar Andrew Briedis Kenneth Kwong Michael Tagulao - Royal Wives - Kim Dominguez Tiffini Lopez Yoshiko Higurashi Kalena Poulsen Phoebe Pui - Children - Autumn Aragon Chelsey Chavez Veronica Jensen Chavez Robert Chun Jordan DeLeon Vanessa de los Rios Amber Dinh Halli Meth Hannah Olivarria Sarah Olivarria Gary Sablan Kara Tsukashima Rachel Wutke Bret Yamanaka Juli Yamanaka Kaci Yamanaka Lady Thiang Stand In: Kyle Cannons Director: Tom Schmidt Musical Director/Conductor: Dale Fisk Choreographers: Vivian Valade and KC Grulli Accompanist: Larry Wilson Costume Designers: Elayn Thoeny and Tamara Myers Lighting and Scenic Designer: Travis Russell Master Electrician: Tristan Gates Rehearsal Secretary: Voneile Johnston Stage Manager: Brandon Guilar Sound Designers: Larry Esau and John Jacobs Production Coordinator: Henry Loughman |