Belfast International Arts Festival returns for its 58th edition this month with a programme of inspirational events that seeks to respond creatively to the current pandemic. The 2020 edition will primarily be hosted online and takes place from Monday October 12 to Sunday November 1.
As Northern Ireland’s largest contemporary arts festival and cornerstone of the annual cultural calendar, this year’s programme features an extended Talks & Ideas programme; theatre, dance and music performances reimagined for a digital audience; and developmental initiatives for artists from across the island.
The 2020 edition continues to explore contemporary matters of interest to audiences such as gender equality, multi-culturalism, representation, the climate crisis and democracy.
Singing Struggle and Agreement - Wednesday October 14
A special evening of music and debate as BIAF20 celebrates the legacy of The Good Friday Agreement (which has been chorally adapted) in Singing Struggle and Agreement. Panel includes Monica McWilliams and Mark Devenport. Free, online, donations welcome.
Book here
Macbeth - Thursday October 15
From the creative minds of BigTellyNI, something wicked comes this way in the form of their reimagining of Shakespeare's iconic blood soaked epic Macbeth at BIAF20. Live. Virtual. Immersive. On Zoom. Running until Saturday October 17, this adaptation is unmissable.
Book here
Oona Doherty and Luca Truffarelli – In Conversation - Sunday October 17
Festival favourite, Oona Doherty and regular collaborator and filmmaker, Luca Truffarelli discuss their friendship and working relationship. Interspersed with filmed extracts of their recent collaborations, they reflect on the intersections between contemporary dance and film.
Book here
