Theatre Review: Where’s My Desi Soulmate?

Rifco Arts’ latest offering is a light-hearted look at the life of the British Asian singleton looking to find ‘The One’. Co-written by Harvey Virdi (Coronation Street, Brick Lane) and Sonia Likhari, the play follows the pursuits of various singletons from Prit, the girl who “don’t do Desi” and Joggi, the middle-aged Fred Astair fan who has spent his life in the closet.

Four cast members switch between characters and sketches leaving you with the impression that you’re watching an episode of Goodness Gracious Me on stage. The sketches are pulled together to form a TV show, which can be confusing to watch.

The comedy, although well timed can be dated and clichéd in places: “Everyone knows a pharmacist is a failed doctor” and in this respect it offers little in the way of originality. However, much of the laughter is created from the interaction with the audience. Sharona Sassoon excels in her role as Cherry Mirza - the Asian equivalent of Cilla Black who plays cupid with both the characters and audience!

The real surprise of the play is the relationship between Joggi, the homosexual postal worker and the passion fuelled widow Shusheila. What begins as an unfortunate mix-up in a bar results in a sweet and mutual companionship, which ultimately adds a feel good factor to the production.

The cast is made up of familiar faces in the British Asian theatre world. Ankur Bahl (To Be Straight With You) brings his impressive dance experience to the production and revels as Joggi, whilst Sharona Sassoon plays a convincing Prit.. The pair are supported by Pooja Ghai (Rafta, Rafta, The Deranged Marriage) and Simon Rivers (Mela, Agent Cody Banks 2).

For tour dates and booking info visit: www.rifcoarts.com