THE KING AND I Plays Town Hall Theater, Opens 4/28

Local audiences will remember Bill Bickford, who starred as The Music Man in the Middlebury Community Players production two years ago.

He's back playing another leading role, but this time he won't be so recognizable. The role, made famous by Yul Brenner, is often played with a shaved head, and Bickford is busily transforming his appearance to star in The King and I, which plays at Middlebury's Town Hall Theater from April 28 to May 8.

The fearless teacher Anna will be played by Bickford's wife, Mindy Bickford, who has played leading roles with Burlington's Lyric Theater and performed recently in the Town Hall Theater Cabaret.

The King and I is one of the greatest Broadway musicals, with a score by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Hit songs include "Hello Young Lovers", "I Whistle a Happy Tune", "Something Wonderful", and the unforgettable "Shall We Dance."

Director Cathy Palmer appeared in the recent MCP production of The Music Man and now returns to a show she directed years ago. She loves The King & I and was so sure she would direct it again that she kept the long copper fingernails used in the Thai recreation of Uncle Tom's Cabin, one of the musical's most famous and memorable scenes.

Serena Eddy-Moulton is the music director, with choreography by Paula Riga, a dance instructor for Middlebury College who hails from Brazil.

The King and I opens on Thursday, April 28th at 8 pm. There will be a special reception on opening night from 7 pm for members of the Middlebury Community Players.

American Sign Language interpretation will be available at the April 30 matinee. Patrons should request reserved seating with access to interpreters when calling for tickets.

Performances continue on April 29, 30, May 1, 5, 6, and 7 at 8 pm, with matinees at 2:00 on Saturday and Sunday, April 30 and May 1 and a closing matinee on May 8th.

Tickets may be purchased at www.townhalltheater.org, by calling 382-9222, at the Town Hall Theater Box Office (Mon-Sat, Noon-5 pm) or at the door, if available. Tickets are $20, with a $15 ticket for children 12 and under.