Surinderella: A Pantomime with a Desi Twist
The world of British pantomime is getting a colorful, contemporary makeover with the arrival of 'Surinderella', a large-scale British Indian musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale 'Cinderella'. This family-friendly production, produced by Rifco Theatre Company, is set to open its UK tour at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry on July 16th, bringing a unique blend of Bhangra music, Bollywood spectacle, and British Indian humor to the stage.
What makes 'Surinderella' truly special is its focus on accessibility and representation. The story follows Surinder, a young woman played by Sonya Venugopal, whose life is dominated by household chores and the antics of her selfie-obsessed stepsisters. Her only companion is Basanti, a talking cow, adding a touch of whimsy to the narrative. As Surinder's journey unfolds, she encounters Prince Kavi, played by Rory Dulku, and receives magical help from Devi Godmother, portrayed by Harpz Kaur.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Surinderella' is its attempt to bridge the gap between traditional British pantomime and the experiences of British South Asian audiences. Pravesh Kumar, Rifco's artistic director, explains, 'For many British South Asian audiences, pantomime hasn't always been a tradition they felt connected to. So, with 'Surinderella', we've added our own masala to the mix, opening the door wider and introducing new audiences to this much-loved British art form in a way that reflects modern Britain.'
The production's inclusive approach is further emphasized by its diverse cast and creative team. Director Ameet Chana describes 'Surinderella' as a 'fun-for-all desi panto', designed to appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The original soundtrack, created by British Bhangra artist PBN, combines Bhangra rhythms with Bollywood and South Asian musical influences, adding a unique sonic dimension to the show.
'Surinderella' is more than just a reimagined Cinderella story; it's a celebration of family, community, and the magic of theatre. It invites audiences to embrace their inner child, whether they're planning a family outing or a girls' night out with bubbles. As Chana suggests, 'Grab your crew and book your tickets now before the clock strikes midnight'.
In my opinion, 'Surinderella' is a bold and innovative step in the evolution of British pantomime. By blending traditional elements with contemporary Indian influences, it creates a unique and captivating experience that will resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. This production is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries and bring people together in celebration of shared experiences.
