An Evening in Bollywood

You will hear a broad selection of cinema scores that define the emotional landscape of Bollywood, ranging from the nostalgic melodies of Suhani Raat Dhal Chuki to the energetic rhythms of Chaiyya Chaiyya. The evening is shaped to showcase both the intimate, vocal-led storytelling of tracks like Tum Hi Ho and the expansive, symphonic power of a full orchestra. We recommend listening for the integration of traditional percussive elements, such as the dhol, against the sweeping string textures typical of major film soundtracks. The programme includes modern hits like Deewani Mastani alongside enduring classics such as Lag Ja Gale and Chalte Chalte. This blend of styles offers a survey of how film music has evolved over several decades, moving from tender romantic ballads to high-octane dance sequences. The symphonic arrangements allow you to hear the subtle orchestral layering behind familiar melodies, providing a fresh perspective on songs that have become cultural touchstones across the globe.

The Hallé, Manchester’s resident symphony orchestra, is known for its versatility and long history of performing both core classical works and ambitious crossover projects. Under the direction of conductor Michael Seal, the ensemble is joined by a dedicated group of soloists. Singers Rekah Paunrana and Navin Kundra provide the vocal narratives essential to these scores, while Parvinder Bharat and Johnny Kalsi bring specialized instrumental expertise. This collaboration highlights the orchestra's ability to adapt its disciplined sound to the distinct rhythmic and melodic requirements of international film music, maintaining their reputation for technical precision and expressive warmth.

The performance takes place at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester and has a total duration of approximately 120 minutes. Given the variety of the music and the familiar melodies, this programme is well-suited if you are visiting the concert hall for the first time or if you enjoy cinematic scores. No specific dress code is required, though most patrons at this venue opt for smart-casual attire. You should check your tickets for information regarding intervals, as the two-hour running time typically allows for a short break between the two halves of the programme.