In an exciting development for theatre enthusiasts and Bollywood fans alike, acclaimed actors Jena Pandya and Ashley Day have been cast in the lead roles for Aditya Chopra’s upcoming stage adaptation, “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical.” The production is set to make its UK premiere at the Manchester Opera House from May 29 to June 21, 2025.

“Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical” is a reimagined version of the iconic 1995 Bollywood film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ), which has the distinction of being the longest-running film in Indian cinema history. Directed by Aditya Chopra, who also helmed the original movie, this stage adaptation aims to introduce the beloved story to a new audience while preserving its core themes of love, family, and cultural identity.

Jena Pandya as Simran: Pandya, known for her performances in “Bhangra Nation” and the “Mamma Mia!” tour, will portray Simran, a young British Indian woman grappling with the expectations of her traditional upbringing and her own desires. Expressing her enthusiasm, Pandya stated, “It is amazing to be part of telling a story that means so much to so many people.”

Ashley Day as Rog (Roger): Day, a West End favorite with credits in “An American in Paris” and Netflix’s “Dynasty,” will take on the role of Rog, a charming British man who challenges Simran’s preconceived notions and captures her heart. Reflecting on the production, Day remarked, “The script is incredibly funny and full of heart… The music has this unbelievable mix of musical theatre and Punjabi pop—something I’ve never seen done on stage.”

The musical boasts an original score featuring 18 songs that blend Bollywood rhythms with Broadway flair. Composers Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani have crafted melodies that pay homage to the original film’s soundtrack while infusing contemporary elements to appeal to a global audience. The choreography, led by Rob Ashford with Indian dance sequences by Shruti Merchant, promises to deliver a vibrant and dynamic visual experience.

The production brings together a stellar creative team:
Director: Aditya Chopra
Book and Lyrics: Nell Benjamin (“Mean Girls,” “Legally Blonde”)
Choreography: Rob Ashford (“Frozen,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”)
Associate Choreography – Indian Dances: Shruti Merchant (“Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl,” “Taj Express”)
Set Design: Derek McLane (“Moulin Rouge! The Musical”)
Lighting Design: Japhy Weideman
Sound Design: Tony Gayle
Video Design: Akhila Krishnan
Musical Supervision and Arrangements: Ted Arthur
Musical Direction: Ben Holder
This ensemble of talent aims to create a production that honors the legacy of DDLJ while offering a fresh and engaging experience for theatergoers.

As the premiere date approaches, excitement is mounting among fans eager to see how this beloved story translates to the stage. The combination of a compelling narrative, dynamic performances, and a fusion of musical styles positions “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical” as a must-see event in the 2025 theater calendar.

Key Highlights:

• Jena Pandya and Ashley Day have been cast as the leads in “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical,” premiering in Manchester in May 2025.
• The musical is a stage adaptation of the iconic Bollywood film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,” directed by its original filmmaker, Aditya Chopra.
• The production features an original score blending Bollywood and Broadway elements, with choreography by Rob Ashford and Shruti Merchant.
• The creative team includes notable talents such as lyricist Nell Benjamin and set designer Derek McLane.