An exciting new programme will be broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on New Years Day: 20 Years of Bombay Dreams

The play, Bombay Dreams, which starred actress Preeya Kalidas as Priya in the theatre production, follows the story of Akaash, a young man from the slums of Bombay who harbours ambitions of becoming the next big star in Bollywood, and his fateful encounter with Priya, the daughter of one of Bollywood’s greatest film directors.

Preeya Kalidas will be joined by choreographer Anthony Van Laast, author Meera Syal, actor Raza Jaffrey and others to relive their memories of the Andrew Lloyd Webber-produced musical, Bombay Dreams, 20 years since it first opened in the West End at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, on BBC Radio 2 on New Year’s Day.

Preeya Kalidas says: ‘Bombay Dreams was a significant moment in my career. A show that catapulted Indian culture and music to the mainstream.  It was incredible to have been given an opportunity to be at the forefront of such a groundbreaking and pivotal moment in musical theatre. It truly was a dream come true. So it was important for me to celebrate the anniversary of this magical show, it’s legendary team and to remind the audience of it’s epic soundtrack composed by A.R. Rahman and for those who have never heard it, they are in for a treat.’

Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, says: ‘At Radio 2 we’re hugely proud of our distinctive range of programming, and delighted to be celebrating the 20th anniversary of Bombay Dreams which was such a ground-breaking musical theatre production.’