Tag: Edinburgh International Festival

Edinburgh International Festival’s 2024 programme brings audiences and artists closer together than ever before

  • The Edinburgh International Festival unveils an expansive programme of world-leading opera, music, theatre and dance from 2-25 August 2024, when the original festival that defines Edinburgh as the world’s Festival City returns for another year. 
     
  • This is the second year under the helm of Festival Director and Scottish violinist, Nicola Benedetti. ‘Rituals That Unite Us’ is the theme underpinning the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival, responding to an overwhelming desire for togetherness from artists and audiences following on from 2023’s question ‘Where Do We Go From Here?’. 
     
  • From immersive beanbag concerts and virtual reality to drop-in rehearsals and a site-specific promenade opera, the 2024 programme is defined by a deepened commitment to creating a closer union between audiences and artists through innovative and informal experiences. 
     
  • To reach the broadest possible audience, 50% of tickets for the 2024 International Festival will be sold at £30 or under, free tickets are available for young musicians, and £10 Affordable Tickets will be available for every performance in the 2024 programme. 
Classical Music: Yuja Wang, Elim Chan, Marin Alsop, Jakub Józef Orliński, Alison Balsom, Hilary Hahn, Dame Sarah Connolly, Ian Bostridge, Steven Osborne, Nicola Benedetti, Maxim Emelyanychev, Sir Mark Elder, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Sir Donald Runnicles, Gianandrea Noseda, Jennifer Stumm, Thierry Fischer, Philharmonia Orchestra, Bamberger Symphoniker, Ilumina, The Hallé, European Union Youth Orchestra
 
Opera: Malin Byström, Opéra-Comique, Komische Oper Berlin, Scottish Opera, Kirill Serebrennikov, Sir Andrew Davis, James Gaffigan, Saimir Pirgu, Golda Schultz 

 Theatre and Dance: Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, Jack Lowden, Crystal Pite, Grupo Corpo, Aakash Odedra, David Ireland, Vicky Featherstone, Stef Smith, 1927, Eline Arbo, Christiane Jatahy, Scott Silven, Teatro La Plaza 
 
Contemporary Music: Cat Power, Bat for Lashes, Chilly Gonzales, Youssou N’Dour, The Magnetic Fields, The Grit Orchestra, Tirzah, Jordan Rakei, Balimaya Project, Endea Owens, Domo Branch  Celtic Music: Breabach, Mànran, Ceilidh Trail, Cätlin and Marko Mägi, Finlay MacDonald and Ali Hutton, Goitse, VRï  

Scottish companies and ensembles: Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Chorus, National Theatre of Scotland, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, Scottish Opera, National Youth Choir of Scotland, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Edinburgh Festival Chorus, Scottish Ballet 

From 2-25 August 2024, Edinburgh International Festival presents a hand-picked selection of leading international and local local artists in the world’s Festival City, with 24 days of world-class opera, dance, music and theatre.  

The 2024 programme comprises 161 performances from over 2000 artists across 42 nations, all joined under the theme,‘Rituals That Unite Us’.

The theme responds to an overwhelming desire for togetherness from artists and audiences following on from 2023’s question ‘Where Do We Go From Here?’.

Reasserting the value of shared experiences, the 2024 International Festival celebrates the practices, traditions and festivities that give us meaning and connect us – as a festival, a city, and as a society.

The second year under Festival Director and Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti, the 2024 programme offers an increased range of innovative and informal audience experiences, designed to create closer union between artists and audiences.  

Audiences can enjoy a virtual reality experience filmed within an orchestra, a site-specific promenade opera and, by popular demand, an expanded programme of beanbag concerts placing the audience among performers to experience music in a unique way.

The programme also features an all-ages family concert, a participatory dance and music work outside The Scottish Parliament, and post-show talks with artists in The Hub, returning with a bigger programme as the International Festival’s home and ‘green room’. This year the venue will be open to the public for informal dining, drop-in rehearsals and Up Late performances.

There is also a deepened commitment to reach the broadest possible audience, with 50% of tickets for the 2024 International Festival to be sold at £30 or under, thousands of free tickets available for young musicians, and £10 Affordable Ticketsavailable for every performance in the 2024 programme.

Year round, the International Festival offers three pathways for people of all ages and backgrounds to make the most of their creative potential and create a growing social impact in Scotland.

Underpinning the 2024 Festival is an ambition to deepen connections with young people, communities and the arts industry, from a youth takeover day and opportunities for emerging talent to a first-time partnership with an Edinburgh community space and pop-up performances in NHS healthcare settings.

Highlights of the programme include:

  • Two world premiere theatre productions from Scottish creatives: The Fifth Step, a thrilling new play written byDavid Ireland,directed by Finn den Hertogand starring BAFTA-nominated Scottish actor Jack Lowden; and the stage adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s bestselling memoir,The Outrun, brought to life by Oliver Award-winning playwright Stef Smith, director Vicky Featherstone and Edinburgh’s producing theatre, The Royal Lyceum Theatre Company.
  • Five extraordinary operas, of which three are staged and two are performed in concert, including Opéra Comique’s production of Bizet’s Carmen with Gaëlle Arquez in the title role; and Komische Oper Berlin’s production of Mozart’sThe Marriage of Figaro, directed by Kirill Serebrennikov. A new production of Stravinsky’sOedipus Rex by Scottish Opera takes over the National Museum of Scotland, performed in promenade with a 100-strong community chorus from across Scotland. 
  • A two-part opening weekend exploring different ways of telling the same great story, with two distinct interpretations of the Passion: Latin American and Afro-Cuban musical styles mix with contemporary classical expressions in the Scottish premiere of Osvaldo Golijov’s La Pasión según San Marcos, and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, their Chief Conductor Ryan Wigglesworth and the Edinburgh Festival Chorus take on Johann Sebastian Bach’s masterpiece, the St Matthew Passion, in Mendelssohn’s 1841 version. 
     
  • The return of beanbag concerts, inspired by Budapest Festival Orchestra’s founder Iván Fischer’s shows last year, with the audience seated on beanbags to experience classical music in a unique way. A variety of musical performances include family-friendly presentations from European Union Youth Orchestra with Gianandrea Noseda, and Barokksolistene’s The Alehouse Sessions, transforming the Usher Hall into a 17th-century English tavern, complete with sea shanties and folk-favourites.
  • The Opening Event – a large-scale outdoor opening event for 10,000 people evoking the mythology and history of Scotland’s rich heritage, in collaboration with single malt Scotch Whisky, The Macallan, with creative producer Pinwheel. Further details will be announced closer to the event. 
     
  • The Philharmonia Orchestra in residency, including performances of Verdi’s Requiem (conducted by Santtu-Matias Rouvali) and the International Festival’s Closing Concert, Strauss’s Capriccio (conducted by Sir Andrew Davis), with Malin Byström. The Philharmonia also present the UK premiere of Julia Wolfe’s Fire in my Mouth, a multimedia performance conducted by Marin Alsop, with the National Youth Choir of Scotland. 
     
  • A stellar dance and theatre offering full of UK, European and World Premieres with leading creatives and companies such as Internaational Theater Amsterdam, Crystal Pite, Kidd Pivot, Grupo Corpo, Aakash Odedra, National Theatre of Scotland, Jack Lowden, 1927, Teatro La Plaza, Émilie Monnet, Waira Nina, Christiane Jatahyand more.
  • The Bamberger Symphonikerin residence with conductor Jakub Hrůša for three performances that include works by Brahms, Dvořák and Hans Rott, and a family-friendly explainer event, Beyond the Score, taking a deep dive into Dvořák’s New World Symphony.
     
  • A final residency with Ilumina, the São Paulo-based artist collective founded by violinist Jennifer Stumm. Known for their model of 21st century creativity and artist-led advancement of diverse talent, their first visit to the International Festival sees them give two concerts with the audience seated on beanbags and two performances in The Hub. 
     
  • Projects which go beyond the performances on stage with an ambition to create a growing social impact in Scotland through the performing arts, include: a first-time Community Connections Hub, inviting audiences to experience the Philharmonia Orchestra in Virtual Reality within their own community space; Culture Clubs bringing together community groups to explore ‘Rituals that Unite Us’ through a shared meal and performance; pop-up performances in NHS healthcare settings; a Youth Takeover Dayfor senior pupils in Edinburgh schools; and schools performances and workshops across music, opera, theatre and dance for secondary school pupils.
  • A contemporary music programme including gifted singer-songwriter Cat Power; indie-pop sensation Bat for Lashes; polymath composer and piano personality Chilly Gonzales;beloved orchestral-pop group The Magnetic Fields; one of the most famous voices in African music, Youssou N’Dour; the mighty 80-piece contemporary Scottish GRIT Orchestra; South London electronic singer-songwriter Tirzah; a blend of West African folkloric music, the sounds of Black London and the London jazz scene with Balimaya Project; and a signature mix of electronic and soul from New Zealand-born Jordan Rakei.
     
  • Leading soloists include Dame Sarah Connolly, Yuja Wang, Golda Schultz, Alison Balsom, Hilary Hahn, Jakub Józef Orliński, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Ian Bostridge, Steven Osborne and more. 
     
  • The Hub, the International Festival’s HQ on the Royal Mile, is once again home to the most intimate performances and discussions from virtuosic musicians sharing their respective culture, traditions and rituals through music and instrumentation. A programme of leading Celtic musicians includes Irish quintet Goitse, an International Festival debut from Welsh folk band VRï and the 25th anniversary of Fèis Rois’ Ceilidh Trail. Further across the globe, innovative musicians from Brazil, China, America, Egypt, Kyrgyzstan, Indonesia, West Africa and India come to Edinburgh in a truly international programme. 

As part of the International Festival’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, the 2024 programme includes 25 accessible performances, including ten audio described performances, five BSL interpreted performances, and nine captioned performances.

The concession ticket for D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people is increased from 30% to 50% off all full price tickets, with options for a free essential companion ticket still available where required.

The types of accessible seating options held for members of the free Access Pass initiative has also been expanded to include aisle seats and seats with additional leg room, across all Festival venues. 

General booking for the 2024 International Festival opens on Thursday 21 March, with tickets currently on-sale to Members and supporters.

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director, Edinburgh International Festival said: “As we join forces with the world’s greatest artists and bring them here to Edinburgh, we do so with a deeper dedication to our audience.

“This year the Edinburgh International Festival inaugurates new and reimagined rituals, honouring tradition and innovation, to bind us closer together. We invite you to seek and gather with us this August – there is always something new to discover.” 

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: “It’s fantastic to see the 2024 programme for the Edinburgh International Festival. This promises to be a unique and exciting chapter in the Festival’s rich history with over 2000 of the world’s extraordinary artists performing here this August.”

“It’s particularly encouraging to see initiatives such as making free tickets available for young musicians, and £10 Tickets available for all performances.

“Given we are in the midst of a challenging cost of living crisis and our festivals have a key role in providing us all with opportunities to enjoy exceptional and entertaining experiences, these will hopefully contribute towards the goal of choice and access for everyone in our city.

“The International Festival is an integral part of the Capital’s cultural calendar and as a Council we’re proud to support it.” 

Kaukab Stewart, Scottish Government Minister for Culture and International Development, said: “As we raise the curtain on another Edinburgh International Festival, we’re reminded of the power of art to unite and inspire us all. 

“More than 2,000 artists from 42 countries will exhibit their talents, and these extraordinary performances from a diverse range of cultures and traditions reaffirms Scotland’s place as the perfect stage to host major events.
 
“As the new Minister for Culture, I’m proud to welcome the world to Scotland for the International Festival, and I’m looking forward to enjoying an abundance of exceptional entertainment taking place on our doorstep.” 

Arts and Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson said: “For more than three quarters of a century, the Edinburgh International Festival has provided a platform for the world-class music and performing arts we are so proud to have in this country, as well as for brilliant artists and musicians from across the globe. 

“The millions of people who flock to Edinburgh to enjoy and take part in it each year enrich our lives and fuel our shared economy. That’s why the UK Government is so proud to support it.

“The arts have a unique power to bring us together, and to help us see the world through others’ eyes. I’m delighted that, this year, the International Festival will focus on the rituals that unite us – and look forward to seeing the diverse and dynamic work that theme inspires.” 
 
Iain Munro, Chief Executive, Creative Scotland said: “Nicola Benedetti continues to drive the Edinburgh International Festival programme forward in her second year as Director with another inspired artistic offering.

“This year’s thematic focus on unity and togetherness provides opportunities to blur the lines between artist and audience, promoting connection and communal experience in our increasingly divided world.

“The International Festival continues to earn its reputation as a shining light in the global cultural calendar by uniting people through great art.” 

Further programme information by genre: 

Classical Music 

Edinburgh International Festival welcomes the world’s top orchestras and musicians for 22 spectacular symphonic concerts at Usher Hall and 19 intimate morning recitals at The Queen’s Hall. The symphonic concert series revolves around residencies from three outstanding orchestras and ensembles. 

Offering unique perspectives on how we experience a contemporary symphony orchestra, these residencies allow for a more profound engagement with Edinburgh communities, from primary school pupils to emerging artists, extending the orchestra’s presence beyond Usher Hall.

This approach also lowers the environmental footprint for each performance by the visiting artists. 

Edinburgh International Festival announces major opening event in partnership with The Macallan

Edinburgh International Festival has announced a new Principal Partner, single malt Scotch Whisky, The Macallan. Together, they will create a large-scale opening event to mark the start of August in Edinburgh.

Responding to this year’s International Festival theme, ‘Rituals That Unite Us’, the 2024 opening event is an outdoor event welcoming 10,000+ people to create a new ritual together for the International Festival and the city of Edinburgh.

The collaboration between The Macallan and the International Festival is a creative union between two iconic Scottish brands, which draws upon a combined heritage, a shared creativity and global reach, all firmly anchored in Scotland.

Ambitious in scope and storytelling, the opening event evokes the mythology, history and Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. It showcases a range of artforms and performers, inviting audiences to step into a transcendent world that explores our past, present and future, inspired by Edinburgh’s iconic landscape as a city built on layers. 

The opening event is devised by an extraordinary creative team led by creative producer Katy Fuller at Pinwheel, whose track record includes projection festival “North of the Tyne, Under the Stars” which celebrated the landscape and legends of the region, “Land of Green Ginger” for Hull UK City of Culture which transformed all corners of the city through a series of Acts of Wanton Wonder, and a portfolio of projects with artists ranging from dreamthinkspeak to Antony Gormley.

Blending myths and reality, the International Festival’s collaboration with The Macallan enlivens a shared history of Scottish creativity and craftsmanship, in what is set to be a visually stunning opening event to mark festival season in Edinburgh.

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director, Edinburgh International Festival, said: “This year’s Edinburgh International Festival will be a momentous celebration of the collective experiences that bind us closer together.

“We share The Macallan’s commitment to artistic innovation and collaboration, and to true mastery. This flourishing partnership will enable audiences to experience Festival traditions in new and extraordinary ways; our unmissable opening event will allow us to see ourselves and our history on the grandest of stages, and inspire us to think differently.”

Jaume Ferràs, Global Creative Director, The Macallan, added: “2024 marks The Macallan’s 200th anniversary through a celebration of time.

“As part of this milestone, we are delighted to be working with the Edinburgh International Festival and draw upon our combined heritage, creativity and artistic power.

“Edinburgh International Festival is renowned as the world’s leading arts festival bringing a rich tapestry of Scottish stories to the global stage. We look forward to combining our creative talents and connecting local and global audiences with the highest quality of Scottish storytelling through this exciting new opening event for Edinburgh International Festival.”

The full Edinburgh International Festival programme will be announced on 7 March 2024.

Tickets will be on sale on 21 March 2024, with priority booking for members. Sign up to the Edinburgh International Festival newsletter for up-to-date information at www.eif.co.uk. 

Rituals That Unite Us: Edinburgh International Festival announces first performances and theme for 2024 Programme

Edinburgh International Festival today unveils the first details of the 2024 Festival, and the second from Festival Director Nicola Benedetti, taking place from 2-25 August 2024.

After a resoundingly successful 2023 Festival, which posed the question: ‘Where Do We Go From Here?’ the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival explores ‘Rituals That Unite Us’.

Reasserting the need for reconciliation and the value of shared experiences in today’s increasingly disconnected world, the curated programme of live music, theatre, opera and dance celebrates the practices, traditions and festivities that give us meaning and connect us – as a festival, a city, and as a society. 

This promises to be a thrilling year for opera lovers as five operas feature in the 2024 International Festival programme, three fully staged and two in concert. The first of these to be announced is the iconic Carmen, from globally celebrated Parisian opera house Opéra-Comique, the venue in which the opera premiered in 1875.

This production, led by German director Andreas Homoki, celebrates Carmen’s 149-year legacy on a replica stage of the Opéra-Comique recreated on the stage of Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre, complete with seven iron doors constructed by Gustave Eiffel, the creator of Paris’ famous tower. 

The score also remains true to the ‘opéra-comique’ style, where musical pieces are interspersed with dialogue, emphasising the comedic elements of Georges Bizet’s visionary writing. 

The cast includes; Gaëlle Arquez as Carmen, a role in which she has captivated audiences since 2017; star tenor Saimir Pirgu as Don José; Elbenita Kajtazibi as Micaëla; and Jean-Fernand Setti as Escamillo.  

In an exciting collaboration that sees the International Festival once again working with Scottish national companies on an international stage, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra performs under the direction of Louis Langrée, General Director of Opéra-Comique and Music Director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.  

Assembly Hall is a major new dance-theatre work, Scottish Premiere, and International Festival co-production, from Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite. Described by the Guardian as “a 21st-century dance genius”, Crystal Pite, alongside playwright Jonathon Young, present a dance-theatre hybrid that promises the company’s signature wit and invention. 

Also taking place at the Festival Theatre, but set in a community centre, Assembly Hall follows a group of medieval re-enactors coming together for their annual general meeting, a tradition that for the group serves as a bridge between the past and the present.

The event they are organising has fallen on hard times, and unless they take bold measures, this venerable order faces dissolution. As the meeting progresses, the line between reality and re-enactment begins to blur, ancient forces are awoken, and it becomes clear that there is much at stake.  

Delving into the very human need to gather, Assembly Hall explores what stories we tell and repeat, and how those customs reflect our identity. 

The theme ‘Rituals That Unite Us’ responds to feedback on the International Festival’s 2023 theme, from audiences, artists and the public, that wherever we go next – and despite our differences – we must go together.

The 2024 theme takes inspiration from philosopher Byung-Chul Han. His book The Disappearance of Rituals reminds us that what we do, over time, defines who we are, and that our collectively experienced rituals help ground us and bind us closer together.

A central idea of the book is the humility, sacrifice and participation required to maintain community rituals. This will be explored in the programme through events marking the 900th anniversary of the city of Edinburgh in 2024. Other key ideas include the sacred rituals of life and death, and rituals around the art of seduction. 

As well as a programme of live performances and discussions with the world’s finest artists and rising stars, the International Festival continues its commitment to stage large-scale events, inviting participation from communities across Scotland.

In 2023, 500 amateur and professional musicians joyously performed in Princes Street Gardens for thousands of audience members. In 2024, the International Festival will collaborate with the World Health Organisation and Scottish Ballet to host the first ever nationwide Healing Arts campaign, Healing Arts Scotland.

The week-long activation will begin on 19th August 2024, and will include performances, exhibitions, workshops and high-profile policy discussions. 

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director, Edinburgh International Festival, says: “Next year’s Edinburgh International Festival celebrates the unifying force of collective live experiences. We continue to pursue an openness towards diverse perspectives, and in exploring ‘Rituals That Unite Us’, reflect our deeply human need to connect with one another.  

“When beliefs differ, when we are not aligned over a shared singular fight, it is always an effort, always tricky, always messy. But this is what our festival was founded to do.

“People use the word ‘soft’ when speaking of the power of the arts, but to open hearts and minds is the toughest and most serious thing we can offer people. It all starts with belief and trust. We led with this feeling in 2023, and we will deepen it in 2024.” 

Full programme will be announced with tickets going on sale in March 2024, with priority booking for members.

Sign up to the Edinburgh International Festival newsletter for up-to-date information at www.eif.co.uk.

Nicola Benedetti delivers successful first Edinburgh International Festival

The 2023 Edinburgh International Festival has ended on a high, after 24 packed days of events from 2,500 remarkable and diverse artists representing 50 nations.

The programme was characterised by a high quality of art, presenting work from 130 Grammy nominated artists, 33 Grammy Award-winners, 14 Brit Award-winners, 6 Olivier Award-winners and 3 Venice Golden Lions awards. Artists also attracted significant worldwide media attention and positive reviews, with two-thirds of International Festival performances receiving four and five-star reviews.

With an unprecedented emphasis on a deepened audience experience, the 2023 International Festival reimagined how we interact with and appreciate live performance, through audio introductions, contextual demonstrations and discussions before and during performances, and bringing audiences and artists closer together through more informal, intimate performance environments. 

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director at Edinburgh International Festival said: ““I dreamt of a festival that felt truly open and welcoming, creating a shared ownership and pride over the future of our Festival and its profound contribution to Scotland’s culture and conversation. The response from artists and audiences has been resoundingly uplifting, filled with a tangible energy pulling us closer together.

“We asked, ‘where do we go from here?’ – and we heard from thousands of people, sharing different perspectives from around the world. Now, we are confident in forging our path and deepening next year’s conversation together.” 

In the 2023 International Festival 120,000 audience members found an in-depth and high-quality live experience across Edinburgh’s theatres, concert halls and venues. It was once again an unmissable destination for Edinburgh visitors looking to experience the highest quality arts and culture, with 13% of bookers being international, an increase of 3% on last year.

The International Festival also saw steady attendance from local audiences, with 69% of bookers coming from Scotland. 

As part of the vision to broaden audiences, over 21,000 tickets were discounted to people eligible for concessions, including D/deaf and disabled people, arts workers, students and audiences aged under 26.

Over 11,000 free tickets were issued, including over 500 tickets for NHS workers and 631 tickets through the Young Music Pass scheme, which gives free tickets to young people to experience the best classical music from around the world.

The £10 on the Day ticket, available to people eligible for concessions, saw a pick-up of over 4,000 tickets, a 46% increase on last year. 

The International Festival continued its year-round community engagement work during August, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to experience world-leading artists in locations across the city.

Culture Clubs returned to communities across Edinburgh, with intergenerational groups invited to enjoy a shared meal and attend a performance, including the first ever BSL Culture Club hosted by Deaf Action.

Pop-up performances brought music to audiences who otherwise might not have been able to attend, featuring the likes of the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, award-winning bassist and composer Endea Owens, and the London Symphony Orchestra, who performed for around 1,000 patients, hospital staff and visitors in NHS settings. 

Thousands of people attended the Opening Fanfare weekend, an incredible feat of mass music-making, which assembled a diverse community of 500 amateur and professional musicians travelling from across Scotland to participate across two days in Princes Street Gardens.

The International Festival also reached more people than ever through digital channels, with content viewed 4.8 million times over the course of the 2023 Festival, an increase of 63% from 2022. In addition, 19 concerts were recorded live for broadcast on BBC Radio 3.  

The Hub – the International Festival’s home at the top of the Royal Mile – was reimagined as a ‘festival green room, open to all’. The Hub welcomed thousands of visitors and invited them to collectively respond to the central question: ‘where do we go from here?’

An expansive programme of free talks and debates, participatory events and intimate concerts from incredible musicians spanning Scottish traditional music, jazz and classical ensembles brought artists and audiences closer than ever before. 

An audience of 600 sat in beanbags surrounded by the Budapest Festival Orchestra – a format inviting audiences to experience both the music and the orchestra from the inside out, with conductor Ivan Fischer offering conversational explanations of Dvořák’s Eighth Symphony. 

30 audio introductions were recorded by Nicola Benedetti with broadcaster Tom Service and artists from across the programme who gave insight and more context into specific performances and experiences. These reached 25,000 people, who listened as they were delivered by text message two hours before a performance. Over 32,000 people read blog articles which added further context. 

To help audiences gain a greater appreciation of visiting companies and reduce the amount of travel required for international artists, high-profile artistic residencies included the London Symphony Orchestra under the direction of departing conductor Sir Simon Rattle, the Budapest Festival Orchestra with Ivan Fischer, and the world-renowned Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela reunited with their Music Director Gustavo Dudamel. 

This year also saw a focus on opportunities for talent development and professional exchange. Twenty-two emerging dancers aged 18-25 from across Scotland had the chance of a lifetime to train with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and perform in Memoria at the Festival Theatre.

Five pre-professional musicians were also invited to join the Mendelssohn Octet at the Hub, in an audition judged by Festival Director Nicola Benedetti. Plus, twelve Scotland-based dancers participated in a week-long collaboration with international peers performing in Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring that brought together 34 dancers from 14 African countries. 

Francesca Hegyi, Chief Executive at Edinburgh International Festival, said: “August in Edinburgh is the time when the world’s spotlight turns to the Festival City, where residents can mix with their international counterparts and see artists they wouldn’t otherwise get the chance to.

“There has been a new warmth and spirit of inquiry to the Edinburgh International Festival this year and the feedback from audiences, artists and visitors has been nothing short of exceptional.” 

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson, said: “This was a bumper year for Edinburgh’s summer festivals, distinguished by a strong contribution from home grown talent, and increased access to events through an expanded programme of community activities.

“Edinburgh’s festivals underline how important culture is to our way of life as well as underlining Scotland’s reputation on the international stage. I’d like to thank everyone involved for putting on such a fantastic line-up of performances and events this year.” 

Free tickets for discussion events at The Hub

Edinburgh International Festival is hoping that Edinburgh citizens in particular will take this opportunity to join in and to contribute at the following events:

Monday 7th August 2.30pm – Exploring Community Over Chaos:

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/exploring-community-over-chaos-at-the-hub

Tuesday 15th August 2.30pm Exploring hope in the face of Adversity

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/exploring-hope-in-the-face-of-adversity-at-the-hub

Monday 21st August 2.30pm Exploring a Perspective that’s not one’s own

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/exploring-a-perspective-thats-not-ones-own-at-the-hub

The topics are selected around the themes of this year’s Festival, and there are some interesting speakers lined up at each session, with time for audience engagement at each one. 

Dance Base hosts international Artistic Development Week

Dance Base Scotland and Edinburgh International Festival have announced the 24 dance artists taking part in an Artistic Development Week this month.

Hailing from across Scotland and eight African countries, the dancers will come together at Dance Base in Edinburgh to connect, collaborate, and network with their international peers. Expertise in dance disciplines range from contemporary to hip-hop, Bhuto, to Indian classical dance.

Supported by the British Council, the development programme will take place in the run-up to the significant performance of Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring / common ground[s] in August.

A highlight of the Edinburgh International Festival, the performance marks the first collaboration between the Pina Bausch Foundation (Germany), École des Sables (Senegal) and Sadler’s Wells (UK).

The artistic development week will be led by Artistic Director of Dance Base, Tony Mills and will focus on daily classes and work in small groups where the participants can take part in reflections and conversations with a focus on creation and artistic devising.

The aim of the project is for the Scottish and international artists to connect and share practice, opening themselves to new techniques and creative approaches. They will have the opportunity to network with national and international peers and to create work together.

Amy Robertson, a dance artist from Edinburgh and one of the twelve Scottish participants is delighted to be involved in the international festival. She said: “Learning and sharing practice on international platforms is such a valuable part of our development and I’m really looking forward to all that comes out of this week.

“With a lot of work being made in smaller constellations of artists, working with 12 colleagues from across Scotland and artists from wider international communities is sure to be a rich and valuable experience for all involved.”

Also from Scotland, dance artist Suzi Cunningham adds: “This is an incredible opportunity to connect people from across continents and to learn from the artistry and passion of others.

“I am extremely excited about making new connections and having this opportunity to truly dance without limitations, and in ways I don’t allow myself or don’t usually seek out in my practice”.

Speaking ahead of the development week, Tony Mills, Artistic Director for Dance Base said about the collaboration: “We are beyond excited to be able to host 24 artists from Scotland and across Africa as part of a collaboration with Edinburgh International Festival and their professional artist development programme.

“Dancers who will be performing as part of the Ecole des Sables & Sadler’s Wells production of the Rite of Spring, will meet and connect with a range of Scottish dance artists to share practice and build relationships for one week.

“This is a unique moment that will be taking place under our roof at Dance Base. In Scotland, it is a rare occasion when this many professional independent dance artists can get together and get busy. I want to say a huge thanks to EIF for trusting us as collaborators. I personally cannot wait to get stuck in!”

Roy Luxford, Creative Director, Edinburgh International Festival added: “The International Festival at its core promotes the exchange of ideas to deepen understanding between cultures through performance.

“Creating this platform of exchange between Scottish professionals and dancers from The Rite of Spring company is a special Festival moment, and together with our partners the British Council and Dance Base we can continue our commitment to artistic exchange and development.

“I look forward to this exciting week at Dance Base ahead of the performances of The Rite of Spring/ common ground[s] at The Playhouse Theatre this August”.  

Speaking about the artistic development week, Norah Campbell from British Council Scotland concluded: “Building platforms for international connection is at the heart of what we do at the British Council, and we’re delighted to help bring these amazing dance artists together – putting a spotlight on local and global talent, helping them all to reach new, international audiences.

“I’ve no doubt the experience will spark new ideas and will allow all the artists to build strong networks for the future.”

Edinburgh International Festival presents free city-wide events this August

  • For the opening weekend of the Festival, Princes St Gardens will host a range of free open-air concerts including performances from over 300 young Scottish musicians, GRIT Orchestra and three national youth companies
  • Charlotte Square Gardens open to the public for the final weekend of the Festival, in a free-access outdoor musical soundscape of recorded performances from the 2023 programme
  • In-conversation, low-cost, events take over the Scottish Parliament in a first-time partnership with the Festival of Politics
  • The Festival’s HQ on the Royal Mile, The Hub, is open to the public in the daytime, for a programme of free afternoon sessions to deepen engagement with artists and creatives

A range of 39 free events have today been added to Edinburgh International Festival’s 2023 programme, the first from incoming Festival Director Nicola Benedetti.

The free events, and two low-cost in-conversation events, capture the spirit of community and the joy of music making, and join over 300 performances from the world’s leading performers of music, theatre and dance, that take over Edinburgh’s venues and concert halls from 4-27 August 2023.

An Opening Fanfare Weekend taking place from 5-6 August, features brass bands and pipers, rappers and choirs, as over 300 young musicians from Scotland’s vibrant homegrown music scene assemble for an energetic weekend of music-making in Princes St Gardens.

On Saturday 5 August, between 12pm – 5pm Scottish youth and amateur ensembles take over three pop-up stages in the gardens, culminating in a final moment of joint music making at the end of the day. Ensembles featured include Intercultural Youth Scotland, Drake Music Scotland, Tinderbox Collective, Musicians in Exile and the Edinburgh Ukrainian Choir ‘Oberih’. All performances onSaturday are free and entry is non-ticketed.

Sunday 6 August sees an epic set from the thrilling GRIT Orchestra as well as performances from three National Youth Companies, The National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland.

GRIT Orchestra willshowcase their unique blend of Celtic and world music traditions and perform tracks from their seminal albums GRIT and Bothy Culture by the late Martyn Bennett and arranged by Greg Lawson.

In a truly memorable manifestation of the first week’s theme:community over chaos, the group will also perform a world premiere work composed for the 2023 Festival, accompanied by over 100 young people. Performances on Sunday take place between 2pm and 4:30pm are free, with limited tickets available for the seated arena in front of the Ross Bandstand. Full schedule below.

Over at The Hub, the International Festival’s home on the Royal Mile, an inaugural programme of afternoon sessions includes free artist conversations, performances and listening experiences.

Designed to deepen the level of experience for audiences and give an insight into aspects of performers’ artistic practice, the programme features artists from across the 2023 Festival. The Hub programme is supported by long-standing Festival Partner, The University of Edinburgh. BSL interpretation and live captions will be available across the whole programme of The Hub afternoon talks.

From the 2023 theatre programme, writer Nat McCleary and director Johnny McKnight of National Theatre of Scotland take us behind the scenes of new Scottish play Thrown; Life is a Dream creatives Nick Omerod and Declan Donnellan of Cheek by Jowl discuss international collaboration in theatre, with Spanish interpreter Juan Ollero, an in-conversation with As Far As Impossible’s director, and director of Festival d’Avignon, Tiago Rodrigues, and an afternoon with Geoff Sobelle, award-winning theatre artist, clown and creator of immersive work FOOD.

From the 2023 music programme, a deep dive into the music and story of Richard Wagner’s opera Tannhaüser, a performance and demonstration of Rachmaninoff’s stylings by British-Ukrainian pianist Alexei Grynyuk; and a discussion on musical innovation from experimental composer, DJ and producer Matthew Herbert around his world premiere album The Horse and its fascinating journey uncovering the musical potential within a horse skeleton.

The International Festival also hosts two special events in another new location, the Scottish Parliament, in a first-time partnership with the Festival of Politics.

The Debating Chamber will see two In Conversation events featuring two major creatives from the International Festival programme: Gustavo Dudamel, one of the world’s foremost music conductors, will be joined by Clare Adamson MSP, Convener, Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee, on Friday 25 August, and the world’s premier solo percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie OBE will be in conversation with the Deputy Presiding Officer Liam McArthur MSP on Wednesday 9 August.

Both artists will discuss their storied careers as well as the key question posed by the International Festival this year: where do we go from here? A panel session exploring the future of the arts and culture will also be part of this series, on Thursday 10 August.

Other talks presented in partnership with the Festival of Politics will take place in The Hub and explore principles behind the International Festival’s 2023 programme:

Community over chaosis discussed by Nigel Osbourne OBE, composer, teacher and aid-worker pioneering music therapy techniques with war traumatised children, in conversation with Travis Alabanza, award-winning writer and performer known for their work surrounding gender, trans identity and race. The talk will be chaired by TV and radio presenter Gemma Cairney;

Hope in the face of adversity and the power of creativity in adverse circumstances isexplored by former Makar, or National Poet of Scotland, Jackie Kay and British-Iranian artist Fari Bradley, chaired by Jenny Niven.

A perspective that’s not one’s own is unpacked by author Dina Nayeri and cultural development specialist Fairouz Nishanova, chaired by author and journalist Chitra Ramaswamy. Nayeri’s latest book, ‘Who Gets Believed?’ is a reckoning with believability in Western culture, beginning with the question ‘why are honest asylum seekers dismissed as liars?’. Nishanova is the director of the Aga Khan Music Programme, aimed at revitalising musical heritage around the world in societies where Muslims have a significant presence.

On the final weekend of the Festival, the gardens at Charlotte Square will be opened to the public as a musical oasis, where a soundscape of recorded music from the 2023 International Festival classical music concerts will play throughout the garden. The soundscape will also feature Beethoven’s 9th alongside archival recordings.

From our stages to your home, audiences can also enjoy recorded music from across the 2023 programme on BBC Radio 3. A full schedule of media broadcasts can be found at eif.co.uk.

A new series of audio introductions hosted by Nicola Benedetti and BBC Radio’s Tom Service will share further insight into music and theatre from the 2023 programme through conversations with creatives involved.

For full information on Edinburgh International Festival’s 2023 programme of free and ticketed events, visit www.eif.co.uk.

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director, Edinburgh International Festival said: “Our free programming sees iconic spaces around Edinburgh come alive with some incredible artists.

“I’m particularly proud that there are opportunities like this for our audiences and community members to get closer to the artists across our 2023 Festival programme. It’s our audiences who play a key part in creating the magic of what takes place on our stages and upholding the wonderful standards of this world-class event.

“A festival is a place of joy and discovery, and I hope everyone will get involved and come together to experience some of this magic this August.”

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “EventScotland is delighted to be supporting Edinburgh International Festival’s free-to-attend Opening Fanfare Weekend. The family-friendly event promises audiences an up-close and personal connection to Scotland’s vibrant music scene, all against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle in Princes St Gardens.

“Having events that appeal to both residents and visitors alike enables us to connect and share memorable experiences while showcasing Scotland as the perfect stage for events.

“We wish Nicola Benedetti, in her first year as Festival Director, and all of the extended team, performers and audiences a very special Festival filled with discovery and delight.”

Scottish talent invited onto a global stage at the Edinburgh International Festival

  • The International Festival searches for 26 talented dancers to join Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on stage and five pre-professional musicians to join the Mendelssohn Octet in an audition judged by Festival Director Nicola Benedetti.
  • 12 Scotland-based dance artists are invited to take part in a week of artistic development with performers of Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring / common ground[s].
  • Other opportunities to get involved with the International Festival include the London Symphony Orchestra playing for patients and staff in hospitals, flagship Culture Club events in community centres and young people will get the chance to meet The Late Show’s bassist, Endea Owens, in a Youth Takeover Day.
  • To apply visit: https://www.eif.co.uk/jobs.

As part of the 2023 Edinburgh International Festival programme, the International Festival is providing three exciting paid opportunities for dancers and musicians based in Scotland to collaborate with major artists, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dance Base and in a performance of the Mendelssohn Octet.

Each artist will be paid, with travel and accommodation provided, to open the opportunity for equal participation. These projects were made possible by the support of the International Festival’s Learning & Engagement Partner Baillie Gifford Investment Managers.

In partnership with the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the International Festival has created a major professional development opportunity for a diverse and dynamic cohort of 26 emerging dancers aged 18-25 who live in, were born in or trained in Scotland, to rehearse at Edinburgh College with the company and perform in the Alvin Ailey classic  Memoria, on stage at the Festival Theatre on 24 and 25 August.

In mid-May, the Festival will also be inviting applications from pre-professional string players (three violins, one viola and one cello) through an open international audition process for the Mendelssohn Octet.

Musicians will be selected by Edinburgh International Festival Director, Nicola Benedetti, to work with Stefan Jackiw, Jessica Bodner and Sterling Elliott, culminating in an onstage performance in the Festival’s home on the Royal Mile, The Hub, on 10 August.

Outside of the August festival period from 24 – 28 July, the Festival is partnering with Dance Base, Scotland’s National Centre for Dance, to find 12 Scotland-based dance artists to take part in a week of artistic development and workshops with performers from The Rite of Spring / common ground[s].

The dance work premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 2022 and marks the first-time Pina Bausch Foundation (Germany), École des Sables (Senegal) and Sadler’s Wells (UK) have collaborated. At least 25% of the places will be allocated to artists who identify as d/Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent. This opportunity is supported by the British Council.

In a collaboration with two Belgium-based award-winning puppetry and mime companies, Focus Company and Chaliwaté Company, the International Festival will continue to match artists in a sharing of artistic skills by hosting a professional development workshop with Imaginate and Puppet Animation Scotland, ahead of the UK premiere of their work Dimanche.

Caroline Donald, Head of Learning & Engagement at Edinburgh International Festival said: “We are delighted to share these projects that we work on year-round to connect with people of all ages across Edinburgh, with our values of discovery, connection and internationalism at the heart of each opportunity. 

“By welcoming schools and community groups to International Festival performances, we hope to help people get involved in the arts, be inspired by artists and art forms they might never have come across before and feel part of what we at Edinburgh International Festival do. We may be international, but we are firmly rooted in Edinburgh.”

Alongside the performance and development opportunities, there are also several opportunities for children and young people to engage with the International Festival. 

On the 23 August, young people will be joined by bassist Endea Owens in a Youth Takeover Day, in partnership with 6VT Edinburgh City Youth Café, to explore her commission, and will be invited to The Hub to watch her performance.

Opera Project will return in June to secondary schools across the city, this year exploring the International Festival’s performance of Mozart classic The Magic Flute. A version of the opera will tour schools, with participating pupils offered free tickets to attend the Scottish Chamber Opera’s performance during the Festival.

After the summer holidays, the classes will then be invited to see Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle, with the International Festival working with Sight Scotland and the Royal Blind School to create a bespoke, sensory version for their pupils.

Punchdrunk Enrichment’s The Lost Lending Library will welcome groups of children from ten community groups across the city during the summer holidays, with follow-up immersive storytelling workshops. Stories from the children written during the workshops will be collected and shared, creating a legacy for The Lost Lending Library beyond the Festival.

For people of all ages, the LSO in the NHS Project will bring London Symphony Orchestra players into The Royal Edinburgh Hospital, The Royal Infirmary, The Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and The Western General over the 14-16 of August.

LSO players will perform in closed wards, staff wellbeing spaces, and larger, open spaces for patients, staff and visitors. In addition, 100 tickets will be given to NHS staff to attend the LSO’s performance of The Road to Turangalila, presented by Nicola Benedetti and Sir Simon Rattle on 18 August. The project is supported by Tonic Arts, the Arts and Wellbeing leg of the NHS Lothian Charity.

Culture Clubs will bring together different communities in Edinburgh together to share a meal and enjoy a range of artistic performances from the International Festival programme. This year, there will be four Culture Clubs as part of 2023 Festival programme with the first ever BSL Culture club being hosted by Deaf Action. Endea Owens has already been confirmed as a performer for one date. 

For full information on these projects and further information on how to apply, please visit: https://www.eif.co.uk/jobs

Johnnie Walker Princes Street lights up the city during the Festival

Show-stopping projection unveiled on one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings 

Official Partner Destination of The Fringe, Johnnie Walker Princes Street, has kicked off its partnership with the world’s most famous arts festival, by unveiling a show stopping projection illuminating the entire eight floor building. 

The projection, created by Scottish projection specialists, Double Take, uses the iconic cantilever clock that sits on the outside of the Johnnie Walker Princes Street building, as a recurring theme.

The 2D/3D projection features a series of bold and colourful scenes that reimagine the facade of the visitor experience with dancers, acrobats and musicians, the idea being that performers are housed within the inner workings of the magical clock – allowing the cogs and clockwork elements to be woven throughout the piece.

The eight floor building is also a proud Fringe venue with ‘Pick of the Fringe’ which is a line-up of the best performances from across the festival. Set in the venue’s purpose built event space, Label Studio, two must-see shows will run daily every Thursday – Sunday at 4.30pm and 10.15pm.

Each day, three acts have been hand-picked from The Fringe’s unrivalled talent pool, for exclusive performances overlooking the Edinburgh cityscape. 

The line-up includes performances from: Grammy and Emmy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir, Britain’s Got Talent finalist Magical Bones, Australian drag and circus act Briefs Factory, America’s Got Talent semi finalist Dom Chambers, and many more. 

Johnnie Walker Princes Street has also created ‘Tropical Time Out’ on Victoria Street, an experiential space giving festival goers the opportunity to step out of the busy city and into a world of flavour, showcasing just a hint of what’s in store at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. From here, guests can get a taste of what to expect on the Journey of Flavour tour, before heading down to the newly lit building for their own multi-sensory whisky adventure. 

Barbara Smith, Managing Director for Diageo’s Scotland brand homes said: “It’s wonderful to see Edinburgh’s festival season in full swing once more and we’re delighted to be part of the action. 

“Johnnie Walker Princes Street is looking fabulous both inside and out, especially with the unveiling of our exciting new projection which will illuminate Princes Street with some fabulous story-telling and images.

“This is our first summer in the city and our team are delighted to welcome visitors to our Journey of Flavour tour, Pick of the Fringe performances, rooftop bar and retail space. We know a thing or two about making the perfect blend and our festival line-up is no different, so head along and see us for an exciting festival experience.”

The Journey of Flavour is a 90 minute tour with 3 whisky drinks tailored to your flavour preference (non alcholic options avaible). Complete with a unique flavour-based quiz and personalised cocktails, the full-sensory adventure culminates in a flavour-filled celebration with three whisky drinks. 

Ticketholders for any ‘Pick of the Fringe’ event receive 30% off their Journey of Flavour experience along with 20% off in the venue’s state-of-the-art retail store, subject to terms and conditions.

The projection will feature every night of the festival from 10pm. 

For tickets, head to www.johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com

Finalists announced for the VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards

More than 40 firms across Scotland are in the running to secure a prestigious VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Award.

A record number of entrants for the 2022 awards have been narrowed down to 45 finalists – from across a range of industries including food and drink, construction and life sciences. They will all be considered for one or more categories ahead of the award ceremony later this year.

Scotland is famous for its culture of innovation, making it ideally positioned to play a leading role in the journey to a more sustainable, low carbon future.

The VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards are a partnership between the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), The Scottish Government, Energy Saving Trust, Highland & Islands Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, Scottish Water, Zero Waste Scotland and NatureScot.

Since 1999, the VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards has recognised more than 270 businesses that have championed sustainability by identifying ways to tackle the impact on the planet by reducing consumption of its resources.

From increasing recycling and facilitating active travel to reducing consumption of raw materials by adopting a more circular approach, the dedication and drive of companies in Scotland at the forefront of tackling environmental change has been recognised by the VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards.

Gillian Bruce, chair of VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards, said: “Every year, the VIBES Awards highlight the progress made across Scotland to help move towards net zero.

“We see more and more firms and organisations who recognise environmental innovation and best practice can also bring economic benefits and it is always inspiring to hear entrants tell us about their work.

“Scotland is a leader in climate change action and every business can play a part in leading Scotland to Net Zero. We hope the finalists will encourage others to improve their environmental practices and help to safeguard Scotland for future generations.”

Environment Minister, Mairi McAllan, said: “Businesses have a huge role to play in protecting our environment and tackling the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss and I would like to congratulate all those that have been shortlisted.

“The VIBES awards are a great opportunity to recognise businesses that are showing leadership in making their operations more sustainable as part of Scotland’s journey to net zero.”

Around three quarters of this year’s applicants have entered VIBES for the first time. Two of the 12 categories – Nature Rich Scotland and Energy Transition Scotland – are new awards.

In the next stage, judges will interview each finalist or take part in a site visit, where finalists will be able to demonstrate their work. This will be fed back to the head judging panel, who will select the 2022 winners.

A full list of finalists:

  • Adelphi Distillery Ltd., (Ardnamurchan Distillery)
  • Aqualution Systems Ltd
  • Arran Dairies LTD Arran Milk & Arran Ice Cream Taste of Arran LTD
  • Balbeg Country Holidays
  • Beyond Green Advisors Ltd
  • BlueGreen Glasgow
  • Borders College
  • Bruichladdich Distillery Co Ltd
  • Dundee Rep & Scottish Dance Theatre Limited
  • Dunnet Bay Distillers Ltd
  • Edinburgh International Festival
  • Edinburgh Remakery
  • EGG Lighting
  • Frasers of Balmaha
  • Fresh as a Daisy (Dunblane) Ltd
  • Glasgow Chamber of Commerce
  • Green Action Trust
  • Hickory
  • Highland Meats
  • Highlands Rewilding Ltd
  • Hydrowheel Ltd
  • Innovatium Group
  • Kenoteq Ltd
  • KR Group
  • Logitech
  • Move On Wood Recycling
  • Multiplex Construction Europe
  • Omexom Morgan Sindall JV (unincorporated joint venture)
  • ReBlade Limited
  • Recyke a Bike
  • Redeem Exchange
  • Renfrewshire Council
  • Saltire Roofing & Building Ltd
  • SAMS Enterprise – Seaweed Academy
  • SAMS Enterprise – SIMBA
  • SRUC Elmwood Golf
  • The Highland Council
  • The Leith Collective CIC
  • ThermaFY Group
  • Total Homes Co-operative
  • University of Strathclyde
  • Verlume
  • Wood Recyclability
  • Woodlands Glencoe
  • YES Recycling Fife and Ecosheet