RANGREZA रंगरेज़ा | A LANDMARK ORCHESTRAL WORLD-BRIDGING COMMISSION
May 14 & 15, 2026 | Meridian Hall | Presented by TO Live
Toronto audiences are in for a historic night as Academy Award®–winning composer AR Rahman joins forces with pioneering composer Rushil Ranjan (Orchestral Qawwali Project) for the North American premiere of their landmark orchestral collaboration Rangreza रंगरेज़ा,
TO Live presents Rangreza रंगरेज़ा, a specially commissioned bold new work weaving
Eastern and Western classical traditions and featuring acclaimed soloists Sarthak
Kalyani, Abi Sampa and Janan Sathiendran, with the TO Live Orchestra, and That Choir,
conducted by Melvin Tay. In addition, the programme also showcases reimagined
selections from Rahman’s most iconic scores, including Roja, Guru, 127 Hours, and
Rockstar.
This groundbreaking new production comes to Toronto’s Meridian Hall for two nights only –
Thursday, May 14 and Friday, May 15, 2026. Tickets, starting at $85.00, go on sale Friday, February 13, 10 am and are available online at tolive.com, by phone at 416-366-7723 and 1-800-708-6752, and in person at the Meridian Hall and Meridian Arts Centre box offices.
AR Rahman and Rushil Ranjan will both appear on stage throughout the performance,
performing alongside the featured vocalists. Rahman will showcase his versatility by
playing multiple instruments and lending his voice to select passages, while Ranjan will
lead the musical direction from the piano. Together, they anchor the production from
within the orchestra, creating a dynamic and deeply collaborative concert experience.
The title Rangreza reflects the work’s vision: unexpected tones brought together, echoing
the Divine as the ultimate artist. “Rangreza” (Persian/Urdu origin) literally means a “dyer,”
“painter,” or “colorist”. In Sufi poetry, it is a metaphor for the Divine (God) or a spiritual
guide who colors the seeker’s soul with love, faith, and divine wisdom. It implies transforming the mundane into something vibrant, often referring to a beloved who fills life with color.
Co-commissioned by the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, City of
Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, TO Live, and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra,
this presentation places Toronto at the centre of a major international cultural moment.
“A.R. Rahman’s music has touched millions of people around the world, and it is a privilege
to welcome him back to Meridian Hall with this remarkable new production – a
groundbreaking partnership with the celebrated composer Rushil Ranjan,” said Clyde
Wagner, President and CEO, TO Live. “With Rangreza रंगरेज़ा, Toronto audiences can
experience a truly bold new work that unites Eastern and Western traditions. This
extraordinary collaboration reflects TO Live’s commitment to presenting world-class
experiences that place our city at the centre of the international cultural conversation.”
Do not miss this rare opportunity to experience Rahman’ music live in concert, celebrating
artistry, innovation, and a fusion of musical worlds.
AR Rahman – Composer, Musician
R Rahman is an Academy Award®–winning composer, singer, and music producer whose
work has transformed Indian music and captivated audiences worldwide. Known for his
innovative fusion of Indian classical music with electronic, world, and orchestral elements,
Rahman has composed scores for over 150 films across multiple languages, including
landmark projects like Roja, Bombay, Slumdog Millionaire, and 127 Hours.
His music has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards®, two
Grammy Awards®, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and multiple National Film Awards in India.
Beyond film, Rahman has created groundbreaking stage productions, collaborated with
international artists, and championed initiatives that promote music education and social
development.
Celebrated for his melodic ingenuity and ability to bridge cultures, Rahman continues to
inspire millions, redefining what global music can be while remaining deeply rooted in
Indian traditions.
Rushil Ranjan – Composer
Rushil Ranjan is a contemporary composer and musician celebrated for his genre-defying
work that bridges Eastern and Western classical traditions. An Associate Artist at London’s
Royal Albert Hall, Ranjan has gained recognition for his bold orchestral compositions,
immersive soundscapes, and collaborations with world-renowned artists.
With a passion for exploring cultural intersections through music, he creates works that
are both innovative and emotionally resonant, often blending classical orchestration with
modern sonic textures. His compositions have been performed internationally, earning
acclaim for their originality, depth, and capacity to connect diverse audiences.
Melvin Tay – Conductor
Melvin Tay is an acclaimed conductor known for his dynamic leadership and deep musical
insight. With a versatile repertoire spanning classical masterpieces, contemporary works,
and cross-cultural collaborations, Tay brings orchestras to life with precision, passion, and
creativity.
Recognized for his ability to connect with both musicians and audiences, he has
conducted prestigious ensembles internationally, earning praise for performances that are
both technically masterful and emotionally compelling. Tay is dedicated to fostering
musical excellence, championing innovative programming, and nurturing the next
generation of musicians.
For more information, www.tolive.com
