By: Jason Hunter

Jayandra Chiluwal, a rising star in the New York theater scene, continues to captivate audiences with his brilliant performance in Kevin Davis’s One in a Million. The show, which had a successful debut at Don’t Tell Mama in late summer, is now set to expand its reach with plans for an upcoming showcase. Much of the musical’s success can be attributed to the charismatic and engaging portrayal of Gupta Khakh, played by Chiluwal.

The musical, a sharp and witty exploration of friendship, greed, and self-discovery, struck a deep chord with New York’s theatergoers. Set against the backdrop of a group of friends who experience a dramatic change in their lives after a lottery win, One in a Million delves into the fragility of success and the nature of human relationships. The show’s humor, combined with its rich emotional undercurrent, created a compelling atmosphere that captivated audiences. At the heart of this success is Chiluwal’s standout role as Gupta, a Harvard-educated immigrant whose humor and charm propel much of the show’s comedic energy.

The Power of Humor in Gupta’s Character

Chiluwal’s portrayal of Gupta was lauded by critics and audience members alike. His ability to balance sharp satire with heartfelt moments stood out as a key feature of the performance. Jim Catapano, a critic for Arts Independent, called the musical “an uplifting story of hope in troubled times,” a sentiment that echoed throughout Chiluwal’s dynamic performance. His character, Gupta, is ambitious, a little smug, yet entirely lovable—an example of how comedy can expose the deeper, sometimes contradictory aspects of human nature. Chiluwal’s ability to tap into the humor and emotional depth of his character brought the show to life.

For Terri Weagant, a seasoned actress and theater educator, Chiluwal’s performance was magnetic. She shared, “He’s spontaneous and fearless—he plays to the moment with precision, but it never feels forced. The audience couldn’t stop laughing.” Weagant’s sentiment was echoed by Bhim Khatri, a first-generation South Asian immigrant, who connected deeply with Gupta’s character. “Jayandra’s energy lit up the room,” Khatri said. “He carried humor, charisma, and a kind of playful confidence that made the character instantly real. You felt proud watching him.”

The Ensemble and Live Energy

While Chiluwal’s performance was a highlight, the ensemble cast also played an essential role in creating a memorable night at Don’t Tell Mama. The cast, including Jenna Lucht (Red), Valerie Chamberlain (Jane), Karen Vigo (Priscilla), Rayvon Johnson (Eathjack), and Jillian Marzziotti (Sandra/Moriah), brought vibrant chemistry to the stage. Their performances, coupled with the live energy of The Jazz Catz band, gave the musical its pulse. The improvisational nature of the band’s jazz music further enhanced the show’s lively atmosphere, making for an exciting night at the theater.

In fact, the musical’s success was so impactful that The Jazz Catz were invited back for another special performance at Don’t Tell Mama earlier this month, on October 8. This return engagement marked another celebration of the show’s continuing resonance and underscored the growth of Kevin Davis’s creative ensemble. As the musical looks toward its next showcase, it’s clear that One in a Million is gaining momentum and has captured the attention of both its audiences and critics.

Jayandra Chiluwal’s Journey and the Joy of Comedy

For Jayandra Chiluwal, the role of Gupta has been a joyful exploration of comedic rhythm and cultural satire. Born and raised in Nepal, Chiluwal has trained at the William Esper Studio in New York and built a career that spans theater, film, and storytelling across cultures. His work in One in a Million continues to push boundaries, showing his ability to weave humor into deeply human experiences. Reflecting on his role, Chiluwal shared, “Gupta’s contradictions were fun to play. He’s ambitious, a little smug, but completely lovable—the kind of character who’s always talking his way out of trouble. It reminded me how comedy can still reveal something honest about who we are.”

As Chiluwal’s star continues to rise, his portrayal of Gupta has left a lasting impression on New York’s cabaret scene. With his unique ability to blend satire and sincerity, Chiluwal’s contribution to One in a Million is undeniable. His performance stands as a reminder of the power of comedy to illuminate the complexities of human relationships and personal growth.

Looking Forward to More from One in a Million

As Kevin Davis and his creative team prepare to develop One in a Million for its next showcase, there is a clear sense of excitement surrounding the musical’s future. Chiluwal’s performance has already become a defining feature of the production, and as the show continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the character of Gupta and the ensemble cast grow with it. For now, One in a Million is building momentum, drawing in new audiences, and leaving an indelible mark on New York’s vibrant cabaret scene.