Ever wondered what it would be like to watch DDLJ come to life in a completely new format? What if the unforgettable chemistry between Simran and Raj was now set to music and dance in the heart of Manchester?
Welcome to Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical, a stage adaptation of the legendary Bollywood classic, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Directed by Aditya Chopra himself, this iconic love story has been reimagined for the stage, starring theatre veterans Jena Pandya and Ashley Day as Simran and Raj. Premiering on May 29, 2025, at the Manchester Opera House, this musical promises a blend of romance, laughter, and cultural depth like you’ve never seen before.
The Magic of DDLJ, Now a Musical:
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), one of Bollywood’s longest-running and most beloved films, is now getting the stage treatment. This new adaptation takes everything that made the movie iconic—the unforgettable chemistry between Raj and Simran, the beautiful backdrop of Europe, and the heartfelt drama—and amplifies it with music and dance. With 18 all-new English songs composed by renowned Indian composers Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani, you’re in for a musical treat.
Jena Pandya and Ashley Day: A Starry Cast
Jena Pandya, known for her stellar performances in Bhangra Nation and Mamma Mia, is set to bring the role of Simran to life with all the charm and grace the character demands. “I’m so thrilled to be playing Simran in Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical. It’s a story that’s etched in everyone’s hearts, and to get to bring it to the stage is beyond special,” says Pandya.
Ashley Day, who’s well known for his role in An American in Paris and the TV series Dynasty, steps into the shoes of Raj (Rog in this adaptation). “This is a romantic comedy with so much heart,” Day shares. “It’s about family, love, and staying true to who you are while embracing something bigger than yourself. And the music? It blends musical theatre with Punjabi pop in ways I’ve never seen before!”
The Music: Where Bollywood Meets Broadway
What truly sets this musical apart is its music. The mix of traditional Bollywood melodies with the grandeur of Western musical theatre is something to behold. Imagine a song that’s as vibrant as a Bollywood dance sequence, seamlessly fused with the grandiose style of West End musicals. It’s a cultural mash-up that promises to sweep you off your feet.
Cultural Roots, Timeless Themes
While the musical adapts the storyline for the stage, it retains the heart of DDLJ: the conflict between duty and love, tradition and modernity, family bonds, and finding one’s true self. As Simran and Raj navigate their emotions, you’ll find yourself swept into a world of laughter, tears, and passion.
The emotional depth of the characters is at the forefront, with Simran’s journey of self-discovery mirroring Raj’s own struggle with love and tradition. Expect some of the most heartfelt moments of the musical to strike a balance between comedy and drama.
The Creative Team Behind the Magic
This musical isn’t just a star-studded cast. The creative minds behind it are no strangers to crafting Broadway hits. The book and lyrics are written by Nell Benjamin, known for her work on Mean Girls and Legally Blonde. The choreography is by Tony Award-winning Rob Ashford, while Shruti Merchant adds her signature touch of Indian dance to the production. It’s the perfect blend of East meets West.
What to Expect at the Premiere: Prepare yourself for a musical experience that will transport you to a world where romance is timeless, family is everything, and true love always triumphs. With mesmerizing choreography, unforgettable songs, and a plot that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings, Come Fall in Love will be the one musical you’ll be talking about for years to come.
What Works in the Musical?
- Breathtaking Performances: Jena Pandya and Ashley Day truly bring Raj and Simran to life with unmatched chemistry.
- Musical Composition: 18 all-new songs capture the essence of Bollywood with a Broadway twist.
- Timeless Themes: Love, family, culture—universal themes that resonate deeply with the audience.
What Could Be Improved?
- Character Development: While Simran and Raj are fully fleshed out, some secondary characters feel a bit underdeveloped.
- Pacing: The story’s pacing can sometimes feel slow, especially in the middle of the show, though it picks up in the final act.
Final Verdict: 4.5/5
Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical is everything you loved about DDLJ—but with a new, fresh twist. If you’re a fan of the original, don’t miss this exciting stage adaptation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the movie or new to the story, this musical is a must-watch!