Sonya Venugopal Leads the Heart of Surinderella

July 22, 2026
The Luxurist Team

Returning to the stage as Surinder, Sonya Venugopal reflects on representation, community and why Surinderella continues to inspire audiences through humour, heart and the celebration of British South Asian culture.

Some productions entertain. Others leave a lasting impression.

Surinderella has become one of those rare productions that does both.

Returning this summer, Rifco Theatre Company’s much-loved musical brings a fresh South Asian twist to one of the world’s most beloved fairytales. Bursting with Bollywood music, colourful characters and heartfelt storytelling, it has earned its place as a production that celebrates culture, family and identity while creating an unforgettable theatre experience for audiences of all ages.

Leading the story once again is Sonya Venugopal, who returns in the title role of Surinder. Having previously made her Broadway debut in Life of Pi, Sonya brings both experience and authenticity to a character whose journey is built on resilience, hope and believing in yourself.

For Sonya, returning to Surinderella feels every bit as special as stepping onto the stage for the first time.

“I’m so excited to be back,” she tells Luxurist. “Last year was my first experience of British pantomime. I came into it not really knowing what to expect, but I completely fell in love with it.”

That excitement extends far beyond performing.

Throughout last year’s tour, one memory stayed with her more than any standing ovation.

“I remember meeting young girls after the show who were so excited because they don’t often get to see a South Asian actress leading a production. Moments like that stay with you.”

It is those interactions that remind Sonya why productions like Surinderella matter.

While audiences arrive expecting laughter, music and spectacular performances, they also leave having seen stories, families and experiences that reflect their own communities on stage.

“There is so much heart in this production,” Sonya says. “Every character brings something different, and I think audiences will recognise parts of their own lives throughout the story. That’s what makes it so special.”

Although many theatre lovers will recognise Sonya from Life of Pi, where she covered the demanding lead role of Pi, she says live theatre continues to offer something no other medium can replicate.

“There is honestly nothing like performing on stage,” she explains. “You feel every reaction from the audience. Every laugh, every emotional moment and every applause becomes part of that performance. It’s different every single night.”

That connection between performers and audience is exactly what makes Surinderella so memorable.

More than a musical, it has become a celebration of British South Asian culture, bringing generations together through humour, music and stories that feel both familiar and refreshingly original.

For Sonya, that sense of representation has become increasingly important throughout her career.

“When I was younger, I don’t think I always felt I had a voice,” she reflects. “Now I feel much more confident speaking up, advocating for myself and hopefully helping make things easier for the next generation of South Asian performers.”

It is a responsibility she embraces with pride.

Whether performing on Broadway, touring the UK or taking centre stage in Surinderella, Sonya hopes audiences leave believing that there is space for more South Asian stories to be told, and more South Asian performers ready to tell them.

Away from the stage, she continues to challenge herself in new ways. Alongside preparing for the New York Marathon, she is also writing original projects with her sister, another actress, with hopes of one day creating and performing together.

For now, though, her attention is firmly on bringing Surinderella back to audiences across the country.

“It’s such a joyful show,” she says. “I can’t wait for audiences to experience it with us again.”

As Surinderella begins its nationwide tour, it promises another season of laughter, unforgettable music and uplifting storytelling.

And with Sonya Venugopal once again leading the cast as Surinder, audiences can look forward to a production that celebrates not only the magic of theatre, but the richness of British South Asian culture and the timeless reminder that believing in yourself can change everything.

Quick Fire with Sonya Venugopal

Coffee or champagne?
Coffee.

Sunrise or city lights?
Sunrise.

Designer heels or white trainers?
White trainers.

Vintage finds or brand-new luxury pieces?
Vintage finds.

Beach holiday or city break?
Beach holiday.

Your favourite comfort food?
Dal.

One song that is always on your playlist?
‘Man! I Feel Like a Woman!’ by Shania Twain.

What word would your friends use to describe you?
Crazy!

What is a dream you are quietly working towards?
Being an actress.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
Living in the city with my sister, probably!

Is there a luxury brand you would love to collaborate with one day?
Everything that I’m wearing, honestly!

What legacy do you hope to leave through your work?
Just that I did everything with kindness.

If your life were a luxury fragrance, what notes would it have?
Sandalwood and champagne on the beach.

If you could host an intimate dinner with three people, past or present, who would be on your guest list?
Maya Angelou, Gregory Hines and my grandpa.

Theatre or film?
Theatre.

Finally, what is one piece of advice you live by that you would like to leave with our readers?
Whatever is meant for you will not pass you by, so just keep waiting for it.

What’s next for you?
I’m doing Surinderella. Come and see us. We’re on tour throughout the country.