Frankie Goes To Bollywood at New Theatre Cardiff Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Kathy Sanderson
I had been eagerly anticipating the theatre production of “Frankie Goes to Bollywood,” and I’m happy to say that it did not disappoint. From the very beginning, the show draws you into Frankie’s childhood world, a mix of poignant sadness and hopeful dreams. The story unfolds with a deep emotional resonance, as we learn about Frankie’s early life marked by the loss of her mother, a woman who loved Masala films and often spoke of how she had been discovered by a Bollywood producer but was too scared to pursue her dream.
The stage performances and costumes were delightful, perfectly capturing the dazzling essence of Bollywood while contrasting with the sombre tones of Frankie’s memories. The cast, led by Laila Zaidi as Frankie, delivered a series of performances that were both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Each costume change seemed to outdo the last, adding layers of richness to the storytelling. The choreography was another highlight, with dance sequences that were both vibrant and magical, bringing the enchanting essence of Bollywood to the stage, thanks to the efforts of choreographer Rahul Singh.
Katie Stasi as Goldie was a standout, particularly because of her powerful voice. Her singing brought a depth and warmth to the character that touched the hearts of everyone in the audience. Her portrayal of Goldie’s supportive and inspiring friendship with Frankie was both powerful and poignant, bringing a new dimension to the story. The story between Frankie and Goldie is one seen often: a tight family or friendship torn apart by one’s fame and the other dealing with feelings of jealousy, while they both feel abandoned. This dynamic added an emotional depth to their performances that made the story even more compelling.
A surprise comedic gem in the production was Shakil Hussain as the “King of Bollywood.” His portrayal of a patriarchal figure in Bollywood was both hilarious and insightful, shedding light on the often-overlooked gender dynamics within the industry. His comedic timing and expressive performances provided much-needed levity, balancing the more serious themes of the show.
The production’s message of sisterhood was strongly conveyed throughout, highlighting the importance of women supporting each other in a male-dominated industry. This theme resonated deeply, as Frankie and Goldie’s journey unfolded, showcasing their determination to make a change. The show offered a delightful respite from daily life, echoing the sentiment expressed in the play that Masala films are a weekly escape for many, providing three hours of love, romance, and a chance to dream. This point was particularly poignant, emphasising how many individuals never had the opportunity to choose their own love match.
The play subtly addressed these societal constraints while celebrating the joy and escapism that Masala films provide. I attended the show with my 11-year-old daughter, and she absolutely loved every part of it—the singing, the dancing, the costumes. It was a magical experience for both of us.
Overall, “Frankie Goes to Bollywood” is a must-see production. It offers a perfect blend of glitz, glamour, memorable songs, and impressive dancing. The performances by Laila Zaidi, Katie Stasi, and Shakil Hussain were truly exceptional, with Laila Zaidi’s brilliant portrayal of an innocent, introverted, shy young girl trapped in the toxic Bollywood family life and her adaptation to cope, Katie Stasi’s powerful voice, and Shakil’s comedy. The show’s ability to transport the audience into Frankie’s world, while also reflecting on broader themes of love, choice, and societal norms, highlights the skill of the entire cast and crew. For anyone looking for an evening of entertainment that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired, “Frankie Goes to Bollywood” at the New Theatre Cardiff is the perfect choice. It’s a celebration of Bollywood in all its glory and a heartfelt tribute to the power of dreams and determination. Don’t miss it!
I’d give this 5 out of 5. Totally loved it!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £20 (plus £3.95 transaction fee)
Frankie goes to Bollywood is at New Theatre Cardiff from Thursday 18th Saturday 20th July
For more information visit https://trafalgartickets.com/new-theatre-cardiff/en-GB/event/musical/frankie-goes-to-bollywood-tickets or call the box office on 0343 310 0041.
New Theatre, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3LN