by Zahid Fayyaz

Fresh from a regional tour of the UK and a run in Watford, Rifco Theatre Company brings their latest musical spectacular for a run at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, on the Southbank. This is the story of Frankie, who is ‘discovered’ by a Bollywood director working at a UK cinema, and is then whisked away to star in a Bollywood film. However, it turns out that being a Bollywood film star isn’t all that it’s all cracked up to be. Things start to fall apart, in an ironically Bollywood melodrama style.

This was, overall, a very entertaining show, but with a few flaws unfortunately. The musical numbers, choreography and costumes are vibrant and a lot of fun, though they are some technical issues effecting the volume of some the vocals. The acting is broad what with the melodrama, and there’s some cheesy dialogue. But, the cast pulls it off for the most part. This makes the show move along with a fun, propulsive energy. Especially good are Geet Sagar as the typical Bollywood bad guy Raju Sing, a massively entertaining, over the top character with some of the best lines. Also standing out is Katie Stasi as Goldy, the overlooked best friend who has a lot of heart and a very good solo ballad.

Unfortunately, the plot does run out of steam nearer the end, and seems rushed to a conclusion and the somewhat forced happy ending. However, that is the essence of Bollywood yet again and for the most part, and the songs do help save it.

Whilst it has its issues, its still a fun evening out, and is worth going to, especially for those who have a soft spot for Bollywood films. Recommended, with caveats.

Frankie Goes to Bollywood runs through 18 August.

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