Viraj Juneja: Rocking the Ultimate Road

VIRAJ JUNEJA has followed up his varied projects, including a lead role in the acclaimed film Little English, by writing and starring in the successful theatre play Pali and Jay’s Ultimate Asian Wedding DJ Roadshow.

The comedy-drama about an uncle and nephew DJing in Southall has been well received since its premiere at Soho Theatre in London and enjoyed a successful run at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe.

The positive audience reaction has shown that Juneja is part of something special with this immersive theatre show. 

 The talented British Asian actor is excited about national tour dates this autumn and discussed the show with Eastern Eye during its festival run. 

 What inspired you to write Pali and Jay’s Ultimate Asian Wedding DJ Roadshow? 

 Real-life events. I have always been a creator, making short films and sketches. I remember working with my uncle, a DJ (the real-life Uncle Pali), and feeling frustrated at gigs, wondering why I was stuck with him in these rundown West London venues. All these funny, awkward moments would happen, and eventually, I realised it had all the ingredients for a wonderful, fun story.

 Tell us about the show and your character. 

 The show is an immersive uncle-nephew DJ bromance set in a Southall conference hall, above Queenstyle Furniture, where the audience members are wedding guests. (Winks) Two lucky participants even get to celebrate their big day on stage. I play Jay, a 27-year-old who’s lost at heart but dreams of being a celebrity adored by millions, though he’s not sure what he’ll be famous for yet. He lacks punctuality and dedication but makes up for it with energy, humour, and personality. He sees DJing with his uncle as a temporary side hustle, but Uncle Pali has other ambitious plans for him. 

 What is your favourite moment in the show?  

I love the part where Pali and Jay discuss chai. The banter between them and what the chai represents sets up their wonderful brotherly bond before the drama unfolds.  

How much of the show is based on real life? 

 The idea was born from real-life experiences, but we’ve since expanded and fictionalised it a lot to enhance the story. There’s a shoutout to Jay’s grandmother’s house, 115 Abbotts Road, which is actually where my grandparents lived, making the connection personal. Those little details make the characters and the world feel more authentic, allowing the audience to relate even more deeply.  

Who do you hope connects with the show? 

 Anyone it speaks to. We’re not trying to force everyone to like it, but we hope people have a good time, which I think they will. The story is about two south Asian men, which you don’t often see, but the themes of brotherhood and love are universal. 

How excited are you about the show touring?  

Buzzing! We’re going (inter)national, baby!  

How does it feel being part of this year’s Edinburgh Fringe?  

It’s such a privilege. I’d always wondered how one gets a show to Edinburgh, but with Rifco Theatre and Soho Theatre, we made it happen successfully. It’s an honour to mingle with other writers and performers, and the post-show drinks at the exclusive VIP bar are always a highlight.  

Has this show inspired you to write more? 

 Not really. I have always been proactive, a bit of a ‘go-getter.’ I have big dreams and aspirations to create more projects. I have already made three short films, two of which went to film festivals. One was even accepted into the UK Asian Film Festival 2020 and screened at the BFI. Humbling, but the grind continues.  

Why should we all come watch Pali and Jay’s Ultimate Asian Wedding DJ Roadshow? Because all we have is each other. For years, we have complained about south Asian representation being stuck in stereotypical storylines with unrealistic accents and limited narratives. When have you seen two brown men on stage just having fun? We proudly represent modern culture authentically.  

Tell us more about that.  

This show is unlike anything you’ve seen before. We don’t focus on topics like racism, which are important but oversaturated in theatre. If that’s all we talk about, that’s all we’ll be. Buying a ticket to Pali and Jay is a vote for change. Bring the family, smile, and laugh together. We hope to see you there.  

Pali and Jay’s Ultimate Asian Wedding DJ Roadshow at New Wolsey, Ipswich (next Thursday, 19, to next Saturday, 21), Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (October 1-2), Octagon Theatre, Bolton (October 16-19), Swan Theatre, High Wycombe (October 24-26) and Soho Theatre, London (October 29-November 2). www.rifcotheatre.com