Review | Come Fall In Love | Manchester Opera House | 04/06/2025
- Jonathan Rawlinson
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Come Fall in Love is a vibrant new musical based on one of the most successful Bollywood films of all time, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). Original film director Aditya Chopra has swapped the screen for the stage in directing this stage adaptation. With Chopra on board, loyal fans can rest assured that the classic story is in good hands.
This English-language stage adaptation reimagines the story to look at cross-cultural romance and the challenges that bring it. Simran’s (Jena Pandya) love interest Raj has been replaced by a white Englishman, Roger (Ashley Day). Whilst I initially had reservations about this decision, it works perfectly and helps gives the show a new dynamic and perspective. Some of the framing of this, at times, felt like it was leaning too strongly into certain stereotypes. Subsequently this meant that it wasn’t quite as progressive as it could have been in places.
Aesthetically, the show is outstanding, with unmatched attention to detail. From elaborate larger set pieces to impressively realistic projections of moving pigeons on the ground, this show knocks it out of the park visually. It’s a colourful and lavish production that sets a high bar for other elements to live up to.
Unfortunately, the uneven book somwhat let the show down for me. The stakes just don’t feel high enough, particularly in the first act with Simran and Rogers romance happens suddenly and without any major build up. This ultimately makes it hard to root for them to begin with. The second act, however, shifts everything up a gear when the story transfers to India. Not only do the stakes feel higher, but the show truly comes alive.
Choreography by Rob Ashford is electric, with the larger ensemble numbers stealing the show completely. Another key standout is Kara Lane as Minky, who shines particularly strongly in the wonderfully camp ‘Hot and Independent and Hot’. Her hilarious comic timing and acting through song had the entire audience in the palm of her hand. These more light-hearted moments really give the show heart.
There really is a lot to enjoy in Come Fall in Love. It provides representation on a scale that is rarely seen in musical theatre, a very much welcomed and necessary step forward. As part of the ‘Manchester Gets It First’ scheme, I couldn’t think of a more perfect place for this new musical to start its life in the UK.
Come Fall In Love is on at Manchester Opera House until Saturday 21 June 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a ticket is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.