Review of Taj Express

Contributed By - AZIndia Times Bijal Shah

Bollywood came alive at the Mesa Arts Center on April 15. Taj Express is one of the first international musical theatres from India; produced and directed by Shruti Merchant, choreography by Vaibhavi Merchant. The Merchant sisters are granddaughters of the legendary artist B. Hiralal who set the foundation of choreography in Bollywood. Taking inspiration from her grandfather, Vaibhavi has earned accolades for her work in the film industry. Shruti toured as an assistant choreographer with The Merchants of Bollywood prior to establishing a production company and directing musical theatres. 

Leaving the audiences spellbound since the commencement, the 120 minutes love saga is replete with amazing dance performances. The curtains unfold and the audience meets the narrator, an ambitious music composer, Shankar (Mikhail Sen). He aspires to be the next A R Rahman, the renowned music composer of Bollywood. Opportunity knocks Shankar’s door in the form of a movie called Taj Express. He is asked to compose music for it. Thus, begins Shankar’s story of composing music, presented via exhilarating performances. The plot is revealed with the enactment (dance) of each act which in turn, is vividly described by Shankar. The theatre combines varied dance forms with popular Bollywood numbers. 
Like almost every other Bollywood movie, this one has a hero and a heroine. Arjun (Hiten Shah), the hero, is a prince in disguise, rescuing children from the streets. Kareena (Tanvi Patil), the heroine, is a Bollywood celebrity seeking freedom from the turmoils of the industry. The first scene is a beautiful dance performance, an ode to the Goddess of Knowledge Saraswati. Following it is an energetic performance on A R Rahman’s Oscar winning track, Jai Ho. The journey continues, depicting amazing dances on hit Hindi songs like Balam Pichkaari, Deva Sri Ganesha, Ek Ho Gaye Hum Aur Tum and others. Each act carries its own significance and emotions which are wonderfully portrayed in the performances. Not to mention, the costumes, lights and above all the artists’ grace and movements add to the charm. Amidst all the excellent moves, we get to learn Yoga, meet a live orchestra and hear some hilarious quips like ‘why does it always have to rain (in Bollywood) when a boy meets girl?’
Staying true to the distinctive feature of Bollywood movies, Arjun and Kareena meet, fall in love and decide to elope; escaping the glamorous city of Mumbai, to explore the vast stretches of India. However, they’re not alone. Enter, villain! He tries to harm the love birds for being together but meets defeat. We are taken to the grand palaces of Rajasthan to attend a flamboyant wedding. There; comes the much anticipated happily ever after! Also, Shankar receives a pat on the back from his idol - A R Rahman.

Taj Express acquaints you with India’s rich culture while you’re transported to the realms of Bollywood!