Belfast International Arts Festival, Northern Ireland’s flagship festival of contemporary international arts, is celebrating its diamond jubilee with an exciting programme that showcases the best local and international talent.

From October 5 to November 6 2022, over 320 imaginative, inspiring and intriguing events spanning the artistic disciplines of music, theatre, dance, film, visual arts and discussion will be hosted throughout the city of Belfast for all to engage with and enjoy.

The festival opens with the UK premiere of Dinner With Groucho, a new play by renowned Irish writer Frank McGuinness. Produced by b*spoke theatre company, the performance promises blistering wit, brilliant buffoonery, and reflections on the ephemeral nature of life from the award-winning writer.

Belfast International Arts Festival © Tourism Northern Ireland

At the heart of this year’s programme is a special focus on Canada, the Middle East and North Africa. Canadian events include Vivek Shraya’s How to Fail as a Popstar, a reflection on the power of pop culture, dreams, disappointment and self-determination; the European premiere of The Queen and Me, an exuberant new opera involving comedy and drama from Teiya Kasahara, and closing the festival, the critically acclaimed Kiinalik: These Sharp Tools bringing together two extraordinary artists to examine their intertwined histories, colonial legacies and the changing climate we all face.

Fans of traditional Irish music will not be disappointed as Martin Hayes, one of the world’s most celebrated fiddlers and an influential figure in the genre, brings his latest project, The Common Ground Ensemble, to the Grand Opera House on Tuesday 25th October. The following night, hit-maker Paul Carrack takes to the stage.

Belfast International Arts Festival © Tourism Northern Ireland

Belfast’s longest running international arts event began life in 1962 as Belfast Festival at Queens and was hosted at Queen’s University in the city. Since 2015 it has been managed by a stand-alone company, and the festival now plays a key role in Belfast’s growing status as a major cultural capital. It takes place very autumn in venues across the city.

Chief Executive and Artistic Director Richard Wakely said: “Sixty years is a momentous occasion, and we pause to reflect on the artistic talent and creative commissions that have seen Belfast International Arts Festival reach this significant milestone, our diamond anniversary.

This year’s festival is however determinately future facing, underscored by creative collaboration and a truly international programme that reflects our core values; global connectivity, community, access and participation, and contemporary arts practice.

The festival has evolved much over the past six decades, and it continues to do so with this year’s programme demonstrating the unique ability of artists to respond to the changing world around us.”

Belfast International Arts Festival © Tourism Northern Ireland

Tourism NI’s Chief Executive, John McGrillen, commented: “This year marks the 60th Belfast International Arts Festival, which we are delighted to support. Events and festivals contribute greatly to the positive perception and profile of Northern Ireland and are recognised as crucial economic drivers. I wish the organisers, sponsors, participants, and attendees the best of luck for an exciting event."

Jonathan Stewart, Director British Council Northern Ireland, said: “At the British Council we have a long history with Belfast International Arts Festival and have been a partner since its inception in 1962. It’s therefore immensely rewarding for us to see in this 60th anniversary year that international connections and relationships continue to grow.

“The festival is a vital part of Northern Ireland’s cultural calendar and does an incredible amount of work for our arts sector, and we wish them every success in this significant milestone year.”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made cultural tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland, perhaps including a visit to Belfast International Arts Festival, please do contact our friendly team today.