By Jessica Fox
The Summer Stock Theatre in Indianapolis wants to enlighten viewers with its spin on the classic play “The King and I” starting July 24.
“The King and I” is the story of a British governess who goes to the court of Siam to tutor the King’s children. Throughout the play the governess, Anna, and the king begin to understand each other’s different cultures.
This musical includes the well-known classic musical theatre songs “Hello, Young Lovers,” “Getting to Know You,” and “Shall We Dance?”
“Summer Stock has a unique view. With Summer Stock there will be an artistic spin on it,” said actress Raelyn O’Dell.
She is a junior at Carmel High School, and she became interested in acting when her family moved to New Zealand for a few years. To further her theatre interests she got involved with the summer stock program last year.
“The level of professionalism at summer stock … you’re treated like a professional actor. You rise to the occasion. It’s why there are such great performances,” O’Dell said.
The theatre is a nonprofit program for students 13-19 that is located in the Indianapolis area.
More than 40 performers will perform this love story and many of the actors are from Carmel. But all the actors are students from throughout central Indiana who have spent months preparing for this show.
“It’ll be really fun, I have high hopes for the performance,” O’Dell said.
At 6 p.m. July 25 the theatre will host a reception in Foster Hall at Park Tudor High School featuring the artistic staff. Proceeds from the reception will help to cover participation costs for many of the performers.
All ticket proceeds go directly back to the program.
“The King and I” ● Ayres Auditorium at Park Tudor High School ● 7200 N. College Ave. in Indianapolis ● 7:30 p.m. July 24 though July 26; 2:30 p.m. July 27 ● Tickets are $17 ● For more information, visit www.summerstockstage.com/.
