Come Fall in Love - The DDLJ Musical| Manchester Opera House

Come Fall in Love - The DDLJ Musical, with books and lyrics by Nell Benjamin and music by Vishal Dadlani and Sheykar Ravjiani, is based on the hit Bollywood movie Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Directed by Aditya Chopra, the original director of movie, this musical makes its UK premiere with a refreshed iteration. In this re-imagination, Simran (Jena Pandya), a British-Indian Oxford graduate embarks on a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore Europe with a group of friends before her future is decided for her with an arranged marriage. Unexpectedly, she meets English, party-boy billionaire Rog (Ashley Day), and as an unlikely relationship develops, the duo navigate a series of challenges which proves that love shows no boundaries, regardless of cultural differences.

Based on the audience members joining in with iconic lines, this musical adaptation follows closely to the original movie. However, whilst this re-imagined version aims to introduce social issues such as different cultures and their expectations and traditions, the writing feels like these issues are presented at surface level and are never delved into with full potential. This makes it harder to connect fully with their characters and there is a lack of ability to believe the nature of the relationship, when it goes from hating each other's guts to quite the opposite in whiplash speed.

However, that being said, Pandya gives an expert delivery on her ability to balance the motions of battling between her head and her heart, struggling to decide whether she should stay loyal to her family or chase her dreams. Day oozes charisma and charm, giving an assured performance as the stereotypical heartthrob character. Whilst the chemistry feels slightly questionable in the first act, in the second act as the stakes are risen, one can't help but feeling whisked away in the romantic comedy.

A few other honourable mentions must go to Millie O'Connell and Amonik Melaco, who play Simran's friends, and are devilishly delightful with their fun and carefree spirits counteracting Simran's serious nature. Kara Lane is pure joy to watch as Minky, with incredible comedic timing. Harveen Mann-Neary and Irvine Iqbal are solid in their representation of traditional Hindi parents, where morals are important to the father and with a mother who just wants to see her daughter happy.

Dadlani and Ravjiani set the tone of the show with 18 songs which have been created for this production, and these are generally a mixed bag. The songs are at their best in energetic and joyous ensemble numbers, and when paired with Rob Ashford and Shruti Merchant's Bollywood and Western musical theatre infused choreography, there truly is a captivating display of culture. There are also some really lovely heartfelt ballads which beautifully contrast the lively nature of the show. However, there are a few songs that don't really fit the bill in serving their purpose of driving the narrative forward.

The production elements are truly what makes this production soar. From costume design by Linda Cho, which perfectly represent the difference between both cultures, to the incredible scenic design by Derek McLane, which truly brings the essence of Indian culture to the forefront, this production truly is a delicious spectacle. Furthermore, Japhy Weideman's lighting design and Akhila Krishnan's video design moves the story on nicely, with a highlight being the scene in which the group travel around Europe, each change of video design and lightning design perfectly capturing a new destination.

Ultimately, where there has been many a debate of the lack of representation in the arts, Come Fall in Love bursts onto the stage with colour and infectious energy, serving as a reminder of celebrating cultures and their differences, and reminding one of how acceptance and how true love conquers all.

Come Fall in Love - the DDLJ Musical runs at the Opera House in Manchester until 21st June 2025.

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★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Johan Persson