Feb. 11--The Lyric Opera has announced principal casting for Rodgers and Hammerstein's "The King and I," Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical about the romance between an American teacher and Eastern leader.
Joining the cast are Ali Ewoldt as Tumptim, taking a hiatus from the Broadway revival of "The King and I" at Lincoln Center, Alan Ariano as The Kralahome and Rona Figueroa as Lady Thiang. Also included in the cast are Sam Simahk, Charlie Babbo, Jomar Ferreras, John Lister, David Parkes, Peter Sipla and Matthew Uzarraga.
As previously announced, Kate Baldwin and Paolo Montalban will star as Anna Leonowens and the King of Siam, respectively. Lee Blakeley, who staged the 2014 premiere at Paris' Theatre du Chatelet, will direct.
"The King and I" runs April 29 to May 22 at the Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive.