IF you want three hours of pure escapism in the wonderful world of Rogers and Hammerstein then this slick touring Lincoln Center production ticks all the boxes.

It features some of the greatest musical compositions ever written and performed by a superb 50-strong cast, stunning performances from its leading stars and the inspiration of top-notch director Bartlett Sher.

The King and I has something for everyone and while not being a history lesson it can still teach us a thing or two about life.

It is set in Siam where the King has hired a British governess to teach the monarch’s adorable royal children.

From the moment we see Anna and her son Louis arrive in Bangkok by boat you know you are on an atmospheric theatrical journey.

Wonderful costumes, a clever set design, superb orchestra and seamless scene changes all add to the story telling. Full marks to the lighting team, too, for capturing so many moods.

Beautiful choreography, lots of well-timed humour and some genuinely stunning acting are what you would expect from a cast and crew of this calibre.

Helen George is a perfect Anna and her chemistry with the stubborn yet vulnerable King played by Darren Lee shine in every scene they have together.

The royal children only have to appear on stage to get the audience on their side and I would have loved to have seen more of their individual and collective charm.

The classroom scenes provide a lot of the innocent fun. There‘s also the secret lovers sub-plot involving ill-fated Tuptim (Marienella Phillips) and Lun Tha (Dean John-Wilson) works on every level.

There are many highlights throughout notably the stunning ballet performed for the visiting ambassador which is a detailed, sparkling interpretation of the Small House of Uncle Thomas – a visual joy from start to finish.

The songs continue to stay in your mind once you have left the theatre - a trademark of any hit show: I Whistle a Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers and Getting to Know You are just three of the classics.

Shall We Dance with Anna and the King sweeping majestically across the stage is also unforgettable, Choreographer Christopher Gattelli pulls out all the cultural stops.

If you have not seen this Lincoln Center version before then you are in no better hands. If you have not then you will not be disappointed with the magic of old.Siam and the tale pf Anna and the King as beguiling as ever.

Verdict: 5 Stars

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The production is on Until Saturday. Tickets here