AN Asian head of state bound by tradition is struggling to adjust to the modern world; a British woman is sent on a foreign mission which will require all her diplomacy and everyone keeps breaking into song and dance routines.

With a host of themes that may well resonate with modern audiences, Wantage's Jigsaw Stage Productions is putting on one of the most beloved shows from the golden age of musicals – Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I.

Oxford Mail:

Boasting a full cast of adults and children from in and around Wantage, the show tells the true story of the British governess Anna Leonowens who became school teacher to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s.

The show, with original choreography by Jerome Robbins, includes beloved songs such as I Whistle a Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers, Getting To Know You and Something Wonderful.

Oxford Mail:

Jigsaw's new production comes hot on the heels of their success with Oliver! last April.

The King and I will be performed at The Beacon in Wantage next week from Thursday, April 4, to Saturday, April 6, at 7.30pm each night, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Oxford Mail:

It will then transfer to the Cornerstone in Didcot from April 11 to 13, at 7.45pm every night with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Wantage tickets are available from The Beacon, from beaconwantage.co.uk, Bretts Chemist, Grove, or Tel 01235 200266.

Didcot tickets can be bought at the venue, online at cornerstone-arts.org or by calling 01235 515144.