Charithra Chandran, known for her role in Bridgerton, is set to make her West End debut in a one-woman play focusing on teenage emotions. This move marks her transition from the screen to the stage.
Charithra Chandran, Bridgerton star, will make her West End debut in a one-woman play about rollercoaster teenage emotions.
Charithra Chandran reveals that her grandparents only recently ceased directing certain expectations towards her. Alongside her portrayal of Edwina Sharma in the acclaimed Netflix series, the 27-year-old has also showcased her talents in the spy thriller Alex Rider and is set to feature in the upcoming Prime film How to Date Billy Walsh. Despite holding a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, her passion for acting proved too strong to divert her career path. Although her ascent may appear swift, she perceives her journey differently.
“I often find myself being incredibly tough on myself. I tend to view myself through a lens of failure, constantly grappling with setbacks and striving to climb out of the resulting pits,” she confides.
“While it may appear from an outsider’s perspective that I’ve been thrust into a chaotic world, my personal experience has been different.”
Her journey to success was far from assured, and her family hasn’t always supported her chosen path, despite clear indications from early on.
“My parents weren’t, and still aren’t, entirely thrilled… but in a way, they played a role in this situation,” she explains.
“Ever since I can remember, I’ve been drawn to performing, whether it was through small dances, singalongs, or plays, and they were always there to cheer me on.”
Charithra reflects, “I often wonder, what were their expectations?” While her grandparents in India are gradually accepting her career path, she acknowledges their struggle to comprehend it due to their upbringing. “Their perspective is rooted in the 1950s and 1960s, a time when actresses faced exploitation,” she explains. However, Charithra’s ambition extends beyond her family’s views; she aims to challenge broader societal perceptions as well.
Both her performance in Bridgerton and the show’s incorporation of South Asian culture garnered acclaim.
Expressing gratitude for being acknowledged early in her career on such a significant platform, she told BBC Newsbeat, “To be heard and listened to so early on in my career in such a big show, I felt really grateful.”
Her upcoming role is in a one-woman play titled Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon, adapted from the book of the same name.
Charithra’s character navigates the turbulent realm of teenage emotions following her sister’s unexpected passing, tackling themes of grief, eating disorders, and mental health.
While addressing weighty subjects, Charithra emphasizes that the play is “ultimately a comedy,” illustrating how one can triumph over challenges.
Charithra acknowledges the significance of her presence as a “brown woman on stage,” recognizing that theater has traditionally been perceived as predominantly white and middle-class. Despite this awareness, she takes pride in offering representation. She emphasizes that her character is depicted simply as a human navigating life, with the play’s message intended for all audiences.
According to Charithra, the play underscores the idea that there is no singular correct way to cope with grief or life’s challenges. Each person handles difficult situations uniquely. Reflecting on her own experiences as a teenager, she recalls grappling with intense emotions and feeling isolated in her response, thinking, “God, I’m such a weirdo.”
Charithra expresses her aspiration for the play’s affirmative message to resonate with audiences within the South Asian community, where addressing sensitive topics can often be considered off-limits.
Acknowledging her predominantly brown follower base, she believes the play will serve as a catalyst for addressing challenging discussions, fostering greater honesty between parents and children.
Charithra perceives strides towards improvement and views herself as continuing the legacy of actors before her who have paved the way.
“I believe that by persisting in this work, I pave the way for others like us to enter the industry and succeed after me,” she explains.
She has also noticed this evolution within her own family.
Her grandparents have stopped inquiring about when she will pursue a conventional job.
“I’m acknowledging and appreciating their progress,” she expresses.
That’s right, the charming actor who stole our hearts on the small screen is now set to grace the stage in a brand new production. This move from screen to stage has fans buzzing with anticipation and eager to see the actor’s talent shine in a whole new spotlight. As we eagerly await this thrilling transition, stay tuned for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of this exciting new chapter in their career!
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