Far Pavilions, a musical melodrama based on the novel by M M Kaye and set at the height of the Indo-British Raj, rocks London.

London is humming. The verdict is in and the four-million-pound West End musical, Far Pavilions, is a success. Set at the height of the British Raj, the romantic melodrama that opened at Shaftesbury Theatre, captivates the audience, spinning an awe-inspiring tale of lost identity, divided loyalty and forbidden love between a British officer and an Indian princess.

Comparisons to the last big Indian production, Bombay Dreams, are inevitable, but most people have felt that M M Kaye’s tale of the Indo-British Raj has outdone the previous one. The only exception was that A R Rahman’s music is missing and Philip Henderson’s score fails to capture the rhythm of the story. But, the choreography is energetic, adding a zing to the body spinning dance scenes. And Lez Brotherston’s set designs and Andreanne Neofitou’s costumes cast an enchanting spell that leaves you yearning for more.

Bollywood singer, Gayatri Iyer (vocalist for Bride and Prejudice) makes her acting debut as Princess Anjuli and is accompanied by charming Hadley Fraser (Les Miserables) as Ashton Pelham-Martyn. Kabir Bedi as Khan Sahib is the protector of the two lovers, his deep voice and commanding presence giving him an unprecedented edge over the other characters. Sophiya Haque as Rani Janoo is suitably evil and uses her seductive Kamasutra poses to command the audience’s attention. Director Gale Edwards has achieved an elegant musical, which is impressive in portraying the parallel worlds of the Indians and the British during the Raj.

Gayatri Iyer, lead actress of Far Pavilions, on her learning curve

What was the experience like working in a West End musical?

It’s been a life changing experience as I have discovered my own acting abilities and have come to realise how much I love it. It’s very different from Mumbai where I had worked for a short while with Alyque Padamsee.

With your husband based in Mumbai, how do you handle a long distance marriage?

A lot of the time it’s difficult to talk because of the time difference and my work schedule. We speak to each other on the phone, sometimes only once a week, but I hope this experience brings us closer. Sometimes, when you are away from each other you value the other person more.

- NISHA PAUL IN LONDON

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