Yahoo Lifestyle ‘DDLJ’ Musical ‘Come Fall in Love’ Taps Jena Pandya, Ashley Day as Leads for U.K. Run (EXCLUSIVE)
Jena Pandya and Ashley Day have been cast as the romantic leads in “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical,” the stage adaptation of Bollywood’s longest-running film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.”
The pair will portray Simran and Rog in Aditya Chopra’s musical comedy, which begins its previously announced run at Manchester Opera House on May 29.
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Pandya, who recently headlined “Bhangra Nation” at Birmingham Rep and appeared in “Mamma Mia,” steps into the culturally significant role of Simran. “I’m so thrilled to be playing ‘Simran in Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical,” Pandya said. “It is amazing to be part of telling a story that means so much to so many people. The original film has become a part of the cultural fabric of India.”
Day brings his transatlantic credentials to the role of Rog, including screen time on Netflix’s “Dynasty” and leading roles in “An American in Paris” and “White Christmas.” “‘Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical’ is a true romantic comedy. The script is incredibly funny and full of heart and what l love most is how it shows two cultures, each staying true to their roots while embracing something bigger than themselves,” Day said. “The music has this unbelievable mix of musical theatre and Punjabi pop-something l’ve never seen done on stage.”
The creative team boasts Broadway and West End power players, with Tony, Olivier, and Emmy Award-winning choreographer Rob Ashford (whose credits include “Frozen,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”), “Mean Girls” and “Legally Blonde” writer Nell Benjamin penning book and lyrics, and Indian composers Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani creating the score.
The musical reimagines the beloved 1995 Bollywood film that has played continuously in Mumbai since its release, aiming to bridge cultural divides through its storytelling and collaborative artistic approach, including joint choreography by Ashford and Indian dance specialist Shruti Merchant.
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