Surinderella: A Desi Take on a British Classic
The beloved fairy tale of Cinderella is getting a modern, British-Indian twist with the upcoming production of 'Surinderella'. This large-scale musical adaptation, set in the vibrant world of 'Bolly-Woods', promises to bring a fresh and relatable perspective to a classic British pantomime tradition.
A Desi Take on a Classic
'Surinderella' follows the story of Surinder, a young woman whose life is a never-ending cycle of household chores. Played by Sonya Venugopal, Surinder finds solace in her talking cow, Basanti, as she endures the antics of her selfie-obsessed stepsisters, Lovely and Bubbly. The story takes a familiar fairy tale turn when Surinder meets Prince Kavi, played by Rory Dulku, and receives magical help from Devi Godmother, portrayed by Harpz Kaur.
A Blend of Culture and Tradition
The production aims to make the traditional festive theatre format more accessible and relatable for British South Asian audiences while celebrating one of Britain's best-loved stage traditions. Rifco artistic director Pravesh Kumar explains, 'We’ve always loved the ingredients of pantomime, the humour, music, and pure spectacle, so with 'Surinderella', we’ve added our own masala to the mix.'
A Whimsical Experience
Set in the colourful world of 'Bolly-Woods', the musical blends Bhangra music, Bollywood-inspired spectacle, and comedy. The original soundtrack, created by British Bhangra artist PBN, combines Bhangra rhythms with Bollywood and South Asian musical influences, adding to the production's British Indian identity. Director Ameet Chana describes the show as an inclusive theatrical experience, designed to appeal to audiences of all ages.
A Celebration of Family and Community
'Surinderella' is more than just a pantomime; it's a celebration of family, community, and pure theatrical magic. Chana invites audiences to embrace the fun and sparkle, whether it's a family outing, a girls' night out, or a Desi-style evening with aunts and uncles in tow. The show promises an unforgettable experience, blending traditional pantomime elements with a modern, British-Indian twist.
A Unique Take on a Classic
What makes 'Surinderella' particularly fascinating is its ability to bridge the gap between traditional pantomime and contemporary British-Indian culture. By incorporating Bhangra music, Bollywood spectacle, and a relatable story, the production offers a unique and inclusive take on a classic tale. This adaptation raises a deeper question about the power of cultural fusion in theatre and its ability to connect diverse audiences.
As 'Surinderella' prepares to tour the UK, it invites audiences to embark on a whimsical journey, blending tradition and modernity. The show's success lies in its ability to celebrate a much-loved British art form while reflecting the diverse and vibrant nature of modern Britain.
