PROGRAM NOTE
The Gypsies, originating from India, are a minority who have dispersed widely yet kept their own culture and language. However, they have always suffered discrimination and contempt and so lamentation became naturally ingrained into Gypsy culture. < When the Road Bends> by Jasmin Dellal is a road movie, documenting 5 Romanian bands from Macedonia, Rumania, India and Spain who go on US tour for 6 weeks. Early on in their tour they communicate awkwardly in Romani, Gypsy words, but gradually share each other¡¯s music, dance and food. Jasmin Dellal not only films their music tour but also visits their hometown. Through the ¡®wedding and funeral¡¯, the core of Gypsy music, she captures their life and lamentations, especially the funeral of violinist Taraf de Haidouks who died during filming and the tale of vocalist Esma Redzepova who adopted 47 children. You will find the burning passion of the Gypsy Caravan on their European tour more sensational than the Buena Vista Social Club.