YSFF: Shiraz - A Romace of India U

Rising star pianist Utsav Lal makes his silent film debut improvising a new score to this ravishing, romantic tale about the creation of the Taj Mahal.

Shot entirely on location in India, it features lavish costumes and gorgeous settings and is and performed by an all-Indian cast. This newly restored version of Shiraz was presented at the London Film Festival in November 2017 and this is the first opportunity Yorkshire audiences will have to experience it.

At 25 yrs of age, pianist Utsav Lal has established an international reputation for his performance of Indian ragas on the piano. Choosing to perform on an instrument that has traditionally been considered unsuitable for Hindustani classical music, Utsav’s innovative handling of a raga blends his diverse musical influences and has left listeners spellbound. Utsav has performed at leading classical concert venues worldwide, including The Kennedy Centre, Washington DC; Southbank Centre London; Theatre, and The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester.

Shiraz brings to a close Yorkshire Silent Film Festival's Sheffield Big Weekend in style. This will be an unmissable event for lovers of film and music alike.