Shall I Tell You What I Think of You?
While angered and feeling confrontational, Anna runs through the things she wishes she could tell The King. Within the clandestine song, she challenges polygamy, bigamy, her wages, the position of women in his court, and more. But realising her thoughts and biases may hurt the women and children she’s come to know and have affection for, she softens and knows she’ll stay for their benefit.
Something Wonderful
Performed by Lady Thiang - The King’s head wife - 'Something Wonderful' is a declaration of affection for the King. While trying to warm Anna to the King, Lady Thiang tells her to accept him for who he is despite his faults, as he can be something wonderful. Like 'You’ll Never Walk Alone' from Carousel, 'Something Wonderful' deals with the concept that women remain loyal and faithful to their husbands no matter what.
Buddhist Prayer
Marking the end of Act 1, 'Buddhist Prayer' is sung while the King gathers his family to pray for the success of the King’s meeting with the British. The King also promises to Buddha that Anna will receive her own house as initially contracted.
Western People Funny
To greet the British, wives dress in European-style gowns. Finding the clothes to be confining and uncomfortable, the women discuss the downfalls of both the clothes and the Westerners who will come and judge them despite their massive faults.
I Have Dreamed
The hopeful song is performed by Lun Tha and Tuptim as they prepare to escape. Expressing their love for each other and the desire to explore their affections while free, 'I Have Dreamed' leads to Anna discovering the pair and their plans.
The Small House of Uncle Thomas
For the enjoyment of the British, Tuptim has written a ballet based on a book Anna lent her, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Her interpretation tells of an evil King and his pursuit of a runaway slave named Eliza. The girl is saved by Buddha, and the King and his hunting party are punished. The song has a strong anti-slavery message, which displeases the King of Siam.
Song of the King
While The King is stubborn in his views about women and their place in society, Anna tries to convince him the roles and expectations should be equal. She tries to explain how the West views relationships - all in a secret bid to have him free Tuptim.
Shall We Dance?
While explaining the above-mentioned customs, Anna details a European dance. Wanting to learn, The King demands Anna teach him. As they dance, they express their unspoken love that must never be spoken of or revealed to others. This song leads us to see a changed King, who is a prisoner of his own rule. He must live his life longing for Anna and be changed by her forever. It’s yet another favourite of The King and I songs by theatregoers.