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