Leslie Mandoki launches freedom-themed project

Musician and producer Leslie Mandoki has released a new project titled ‘Sehnsucht nach Freiheit’ (Longing for Freedom), which includes a book, a documentary film, and a series of acoustic club concerts. The project reflects on the value of liberty and draws historical parallels between the 1956 Hungarian Uprising against Soviet oppression and contemporary societal divisions and conflicts in Europe.

Mandoki, who fled communist Hungary for West Germany in 1975, uses his personal history—including his father’s involvement in the 1956 uprising—to encourage dialogue between generations. The book features contributions from various figures, including Mikhail Gorbachev, Peter Maffay, and Christian Wulff. The upcoming concert tour will focus on intimate club settings in Germany and Austria to foster closer connections with the audience.