Some musicals are so well established, they seem to be woven into the fabric of British theatre - and The King And I definitely fits that bill!

The King and I is the fifth musical by the iconic team of Rodgers and Hammerstein. It is based on Margaret Landon's novel, Anna and the King of Siam which is, in turn, derived from the memoirs of Anna Leonowens, governess to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s.

The musical's plot relates the experiences of Anna, a British schoolteacher who is hired as part of the King's drive to modernise his country. The relationship between the King and Anna is marked by conflict through much of the piece, as well as by a love to which neither can admit.

The musical premiered on March 29, 1951, at Broadway's St. James Theatre and in the West End in 1953. Since then it's had more than 15 professional outings and its soundtrack has become one of the best known within the genre. It's unsurprising, then that there was such an appetite for this revival to arrive in Birmingham.

On first impressions, it's a mix of a large orchestra, stunning sets and a strong lighting design that really sets this show apart from its contemporaries. It feels luxurious and sumptuous and brings the elegance of the time period front and centre. However, you can have as many props and effects as you wish, it's the raw talent of those on stage that makes all the difference.

Maria Coyne takes on the role of Anna, a part that it feels she was born to play. Commanding the stage with apparent ease, Coyne's vocal ability and characterisation was exceptional, as was her chemistry with Darren Lee who's effortlessly deadpan performance as the King of Siam had the audience in stitches.

Make no bones about it - Coyne and Lee are exceptional talents who’s enviable CV’s give a glimpse into their pedigree. Both gave a masterclass performance this evening.

The duo lead a cast of equally talented performers in a show which is really an ensemble piece and only as strong as its weakest link - something that appears to be in short supply!

The King And I is a classic and this production is a show that should be top of your list of 'must see's' - talk about theatre that transports you to another place entirely; this show has that by the bucket load.

The King And I plays at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham until Saturday 4th March. For more information, or to get your tickets, visit atgtickets.com/birmingham.