Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I was inspired by Margaret Landon’s 1944 novel Anna and the King of Siam. Margaret Landon’s novel was based on the memoirs of Anna Leonowens, The English Governess at the Siamese Court (1870) which chronicles her almost six years at the royal palace in Bangkok. Anna Leonowens was employed by Mongkut, King of Siam from 1862-1867, she started her employment teaching his wives and children. Later, she worked in the capacity of language secretary for the king-or so it has been said. Many discrepancies in Anna’s memoirs have been brought to light in recent years.

While Rodgers and Hammerstein’s version of the story is fictionalized and romanticized, there is a basis of truth in it. Mongkut, King of Siam was progressive. He made great strides in modernizing his country. Nicknamed “The Father of Science and Technology” in Siam, the king was intrigued by technology and Western innovations. Torn between traditionalism and new modernism, his struggle was real.

Anna Leonowens was as progressive as the king. As a widow, she traveled all over the world, supporting herself and her children by teaching. Quite unusual in the 1860’s. In later years she became an outspoken feminist.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I, a veritable classic of the golden age of musical theater, remains a great favorite among audience members. Our production of The King and I is dedicated in loving memory of Dahl Delu, Landmark Musicals’ set/production designer from 2013-2024. The unit set for this production was his last design. The design hwas been expanded and beautifully executed by both Carrie Tafoya, a protégé of Dahl Delu, and Kari Reese, in Dahl Delu’s honor.