ENTERTAINMENT genuinely suitable for all the family is quite rare to find these days but in this timeless musical, there is something for everyone.

While it does not have the wow factor of Miss Saigon and it is certainly no Lion King, what The King and I does have is a great story, classic songs courtesy of Rogers and Hammerstein, sumptuous sets and costumes, together with superb acting.

The West meets East storyline of genteel English governess (although she mentioned being Welsh) meets nasty despot King of Siam and gradually finds his vulnerable nicer side is charming.

Elizabeth Renihan plays a very competent and believable Anna and Kevin Gray's portrayal of the king is excellent.

He has played the part many times before for the Broadway production and it showed. He was skilled in letting the audience gradually see his nicer side, his inner fight with new Western values and his pride in his country's traditions. Or, as he would say: "Etcetera, etcetera and so on."

The quality of the singing was high, with an exceptional performance from Gina Respall as chief wife Lady Thaing. And there was a beautifully choreographed "show within a show" when the cast portrays an eastern version of Uncle Tom's Cabin for the benefit of an English visitor.

The King and I runs until Saturday. Take the whole family for a highly enjoyable night out.

LM