The Lowry, Salford – until Saturday 12 November 2022
Reviewed by Zoe Brown
4****
Following its short run in October at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, this marvel of Bollywood glitz and glamour from Phizzical Theatre Company has brought its magic to the Quays stage, at The Lowry
Despite a shaky start from a technical point of view (mics not being switched on, spots not coming up for the actors) this tale of behind the scenes 70’s and 80’s Bollywood reveal, romance and rivalry exploded onto the stage in a burst of musical delight and colour.
The story begins with the tale of Laila, (Nisha Aâliya) orphaned and alone, traveling to Bombay to find her father, Din Dayal, a successful Bollywood Director, (Chirag Rao). What follows is as much a coming-of-age story and reverence to the rise the female heroine in Bollywood, as a musical celebration of the amazing dance and song routines synonymous with the Bollywood slate of films.
There were particularly strong performances by Robby Khela, as Vicky, the insanely fame hungry and jealous hero of yesteryear and Sheetal Pandya, as Dolly, his young and treacherous bride.
Nisha Aâliya, as Laila and Pia Sutaria, as Mala, were equally stunning and mesmerizing as the love rivals and arguably heroines of the show. Rav Moore as the love interest and rising star, Sikander, was entertaining and humourous throughout.
The strength of character, confidence and vocal talent of Amar, as Pammi/Amma was wonderful, and the beautiful vocals of Chirag Rao, Robby Khela and Amar equally carried the show. I only wish when they provided vocals during the dance sequences, they were not visible – as this broke the illusion that the leads were in fact singing – as they desperately tried to lip synch along.
I must make special mention of Adeel Ali, who covered as Tiger, its never easy to step in as understudy and particularly on press night!
I was very pleased by the over-stage captions throughout the show (as a hard of hearing person I appreciate being able to follow the story) alongside translation of the songs (for those of us who don’t speak Hindi) However, it may have been prudent to not have the lighting rig directly in front as when a spot was raised it blocked the view.
You don’t need to be a fan of Bollywood to enjoy this show, although there were plenty of lifelong fans to whoop with delight when a favourite movie was referenced, or snigger when an infamous real-life incident was hinted at in the script.
Lastly the live musical talent provided by Dhaivat Acharya Bindi Bhumbra Ragen Bhrambhatt Vikaash Sankadecha Trushar Tailor was thrilling.
If you’re going to go, be prepared to sing, dance and clap along. This show deserves an audience with as much energy and gusto as their performances provide.