Art & Culture

There’s a new Bollywood musical coming to Manchester next year

It's based on Bollywood’s most successful film.

Thomas Melia - 23rd September 2024

A musical comedy based on Bollywood’s most successful film is set to open in Manchester in 2025.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, also known as DDLJ, follows the love story of lead characters Raj and Simran, who meet in Europe and then again in India where Raj wins her back as she’s already promised to a potential husband.

‘Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical’ as its titled is coming to Manchester Opera House in 2025 and is directed by Aditya Chopra, the film’s original director.

Since its big-screen release in 1995, the show has never left cinemas in Mumbai, becoming the longest-running title in Indian cinema.

This new stage adaptation taking place in Manchester will feature 18 brilliant songs created especially for the theatre production with a huge emphasis on colliding cultures.

The musical itself has already amassed success at its World premiere in California two years ago at The Old Globe, San Diego.

This musical version sees the introduction of ‘Rog’ who takes the place of the film’s male protagonist, ‘Raj’.

‘Rog’ is described as a rich, charming British boy, also known as Simran’s father’s worst nightmare, it’s the battle of true love and tradition.

There’s a cabinet full of awards backing this musical as ‘Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical’, has lyrics by Nell Benjamin, known for his involvement with Tina Fey and the smash-hit musical movie ‘Mean Girls’.

The recording duo Vishal & Sheykhar are behind the music for this project and are well-known for some huge songs in India.

Support from Rob Ashford as the Emmy, Tony and Olivier award winner known for his efforts for the on-stage adaptation of Frozen, takes on the role of associate choreographer.

This musical comedy really is a full fusion of cultures with the tagline of ‘An East-meets-West Musical Comedy’.

Tickets for ‘Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical’ go on sale 4 October at 10am here.

Featured Image: Supplied