The production features an infectious soundtrack with music and lyrics by British Bhangra legend PBN, aka ‘The Hitmaker’, whose high-energy score blends Bhangra, Bollywood and South Asian sounds to bring Surinderella to life.
Set in the vibrant world of the Bolly-Woods, the story follows Surinder (Sonya Venugopal, Life of Pi Broadway and International Tour), a sweet and spirited young woman stuck under a never-ending mountain of chores thanks to her selfie-obsessed, Insta-vlogging stepsisters, Lovely (Andy Kumar) and Bubbly (Raheem Payne AKA Dosa Cat). Her only real ally is Basanti, a talking cow with more attitude than your average desi aunty.
But when she crosses paths with Prince Kavi (Rory Dulku) and the ever-optimistic Babloo (Dhruv Ravi, Frankie Goes to Bollywood), Surinder’s world is turned upside down. Add in the fabulous Devi Godmother (Harpz Kaur), a mysterious slipper, a dazzling Bollywood Ball and plenty of bakwaas, and the result is a whirlwind of magic, mayhem and romance before the final slipper finds its match.
The cast is completed by ensemble performers Chiara Dev Galli, Sarjan Hira, Neha Eapen, Kuldeep Goswami and Aron Rhode.
Pravesh Kumar MBE, Artistic Director of Rifco Theatre Company, said: “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.
“For many British South Asian audiences, it hasn’t always been a tradition they felt connected to, so this is about opening the door wider, introducing new audiences, and celebrating a much-loved British artform in a way that reflects modern Britain.”
Ameet Chana, Director of Surinderella, said: “Surinderella is a massive celebration of family, community, and pure theatrical magic. This is a fun-for-all Desi panto built for every kind of day or night out.
“Whether you’re planning a day out for the summer holidays with the kids, a big girls' night out with bubbles to add to the show's sparkles, or arriving with a full Desi entourage with the whole family and your Massis' in tow, you're in for an unforgettable experience. Grab your crew and book your tickets now before the clock strikes midnight!"
