A new musical finds its voice through its cast
The Bay Area’s weekly roundup of arts, culture, and community | May 8 to 14, 2026
Inspiration can come from anywhere. That’s the saying, right? Well, this week we have two stories from Manu Narayan and Kuhoo Verma about how they found their way to The Lunchbox, Berkeley Rep’s upcoming world premiere musical. Narayan comes the show by way of Bombay Dreams in New York and Your Friends & Neighbors on Apple TV. While Verma was previously seen at Berkeley Rep in Monsoon Wedding and Heathers: The Musical off-Broadway.
In this reimagining of the film of the same name, Narayan plays Fernandes, a middle-aged widower, and Verma takes on the character of Ila, a young housewife hoping to gain the attention of her husband. Their worlds unexpectedly come together through a lunchbox…and that’s all I’ll tell you. For more, check out the interview. – Ciara
On the Stage
Hamnet
Theatre | American Conservatory Theater
Now – May 24 | Tickets
When the plague steals 11-year-old Hamnet from his loving parents, Agnes and William Shakespeare, they must each confront their loss alone.
More Events
- Lara Downes and Friends | Cal Performances | May 9 | View Print Program
- Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony | San Francisco Symphony | Now – May 10 | View Program
- Hell’s Kitchen | ATG San Francisco | Now – May 24
- Pictures From Home | Marin Theatre | Now – May 31
Next Line
- I just learned there is something called “Opera Cubs” and I can’t get over it. This Saturday, SF Opera presents a Cubs and family day for Barber of Seville.
- Stanford Live has announced their 2026/27 season. Single tickets go on sale to the public on June 2.
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