Ok I had to put in my 2 cents. I was up for one of the leads for Bombay Dreams B'way and might have a more balanced opinion (despite not being cast).
So- overall, I didn't think it was anything amazing. HOWEVER, nor do I agree with the critics, who tore the show to pieces. For me, the exciting aspects of this show are the music and choreography. It's thrilling to hear the live percussionists that are installed on platforms on either side of the stage. And the dancers are so high energy that they really take you in. As annoying as I sometimes find Shakalaka Baby (by the way Shakalaka has no meaning; it's sort of the equivalent of a pop singer saying "mmm" or "bee bop") the stage number is THRILLING.
Having said that, I think the performances leave a lot to be desired. I saw very little acting going on, and what I did see was somewhat by-the-numbers. Priya is guilty of not acting at all, but merely standing dully and singing as if it were a recital.
The show is vastly different from London, and unfortunately loses a LOT in the B'way transfer. In London, you felt as if you were watching an actual Bollywood film, only live. There were scenes used to balance this- "real moment" scenes for lack of a better word. The book also allowed us to cheer for Akaash as he attempts his dreams. On B'way, frankly, I could've cared less if he succeeded. Not to mention lacks of transition! ****SPOILER****
Sweetie dies, and seconds later Akaash is singing The Journey Home, for no reason. That song marks a HUGE turning point in his life, and it was delivered as if all he was doing was deciding whether to wash his hair today or not.
I disagree with the posts saying that the critics didn't "get" the Bollywood culture, etc. I grew up with it, I completely GET it, but still I wasn't all that into it. I think the creative team didn't quite "get" how to celebrate it and mock it simultaneously. If it were more all-out extravaganza, with a truly moving story AND self-mockery, it would feel more complete. I think a lot of this falls on Meera Syal, who wrote the (horrendous) book. The in-jokes and wink-wink self-effacement are seriously lame.
Overall, I think most people would come out having been entertained. It's colourful, the lighting is gorgeous, the dancing top-notch, and the live music HOT. So if you're ok with pure schlock, then this might be for you. I think many people who haven't been exposed to this music before will find themselves dying to get out of their seat and dance.
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