I am hoping to find some treasures! Bollywood cast dazzles in Surindarella panto at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Bollywood star Sonya Venugopa steps on to the stage at Blackpool Grand Theatre next week and with it she is hoping to spend some time exploring Blackpool.

She is cast as the leading role in Surindarella - a dazzling Bollywood take on the classic Cinderella story - in true panto style.

Surindarella is packed with dazzling dance numbers, colourful costumes, heart-warming romance and lots of comedy chaos and Sonya, from the smash-hit Broadway musical Life of Pi will perform the role as the sweet Surinder, alongside Harpz Kauer (BBC’s Saturday Mash-Up!, BBC Asian Network) as the fabulous Devi Godmother with bags of bhangra attitude and Andy Kumar (Bigg Boss, India’s Got Talent) as the wonderfully wicked stepsister Lovely.

It’s the first time Sonya has stepped onto the shores of Blackpool and says she is looking forward to spending some time on the beach.

She said: “I am hoping that during this season and time of year, I can still explore the outdoors and spend some time on the beach, but even if it's not the right weather for that, I have heard about the boardwalk and the energy of what Blackpool is.

“I also love thrifting in different cities, so I am hoping to find some treasures!”

It’s not the first time Sonya has played the role and says about this tour: “This has all new stops, which makes it very interesting and allows us to reach a wider audience from what we reached last time.

“This is not your typical Cinderella story; Surinder is very headstrong and forward thinking, and there might be some elements of the story that slightly veer from your typical fairytale.

“The desi influenced colourful costumes, dance and vibrant energy is unlike any other panto I have ever experienced. I don't want to give too much away, so I think you should come see the show and find out!

“Playing Surinder every night is such a joy, and I am constantly finding new things to think about or bring into the performance.

“Everyone is giving 100% all the time, which is one of the biggest challenges in a show like this.

“You absolutely need to have a routine of exercise, nutrition, and sleep to be able to sustain doing eight shows a week of such a high octane production.

“This go around, I am simultaneously training for the NYC marathon which is in November, so I have been trying to balance that training with keeping the show fresh and healthy!

We asked Sonya if she could describe Surindarella in three words to persuade someone to see the show, what would she say?

“I would say it is giving Bollywood, Masala, and Empowerment!

“Bollywood - it infuses the classic fairytale with spectacular, high-energy Indian cinema flair, featuring non-stop dancing and a hit soundtrack.

“Masala - it delivers a perfect spice blend of laugh-out-loud comedy, modern cultural twists, and dramatic fun.

“Empowerment - features a fresh take on the lead character that inspires and delights audiences of all generations.”

The Grand Theatre is celebrating the Government’s glorious new Great British Summer Savings initiative by offering a family ticket for four at just £50 and children’s tickets at £10 for this glittering South Asian twist on the classic rags to riches tale.

Blackpool Grand Theatre Head of Audience, Marketing and Sales, Andrew Howard, said: “Live theatre should be something everyone can enjoy, and we’re delighted to offer families the chance to all see Surindarella together for just £50.

“It’s a brilliantly bold, funny and feel-good show, and we want as many families as possible to experience the exciting energy of a Bollywood spectacular live on our stage for the very first time. There’s never been a better time to book a family night out at the Grand!”

Surindarella runs from Tuesday 22 September to Saturday 26 September. Tickets: Blackpool Grand Theatre