Festival Pick For Today: The Manganiyar Seduction


Sometimes, performances come along that you just know are going to be special. The Manganiyar Seduction at the Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival is one of those performances.


Directed by Roysten Abel, The Manganiyar Seduction was originally created for the opening of the 2006 Delhi Film Festival. Since its first production, the show has been weaving its magic across the globe, including Mumbai, Vienna and Croatia, gaining critical acclaim with audiences worldwide.

Roysten Abel groups over 40 musicians from Rajasthan against a beguiling backdrop based on the red light district in Amsterdam, creating a music-box setting which promises to enchant and reawaken you. Spanning three generations, the singers unleash their deeply-rooted gypsy traditions and history through their musical charms.

To understand the depth, skill and authenticity of the show, it’s important to understand that the Manganiyar gypsies are a caste of Muslim musicians who traditionally played to Kings. Their songs reflect their heritage and range from classical ballads to Sufi mysticism, covering topics such as feasts, life, birth and marriage.

The Manganiyar Seduction combines the complexity of classical music with the richness of folk, resulting in a colourful and uplifting performance which harnesses the nuances of theatre to create magic in music.


For anyone who still believes in magic or would like to start believing again – The Manganiyar Seduction promises to be an epic musical spectacle that will be unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed before.


Those who come away completely mystified can also take the opportunity to discuss The Manganiyar Seduction with Roysten Abel and members of the company on September 25th, post-show at 9pm.

I’m certainly looking forward to attending.

For a video clip and full details, click here.

Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival is funded by the Arts Council

Festival Blogger – Elizabeth rose Murray