The largest Nordic festival turns 60

In May/June each year, Bergen, one of the oldest cities in Norway, turns into the hub of the Nordic art universe. Founded in 1953, the Festival celebrates its 60th year in 2012 with a range of events.

With more than 50 000 visitors each year, the Bergen International Festival is the largest Nordic festival in its genre and renowned for its new stage productions and extensive music programme.

The Festival presents more than 150 events in 15 days. Here you can experience intimate recitals in Edvard Grieg’s living room, chamber music in the mediaeval royal hall, contemporary dance and music and much more. Outdoors, an extensive programme of free events ensures that the whole city is in a Festival mood.

Highlights at the 2012 festival include a Komische Oper Berlin production of Handel’s Xerxes under the direction of Stefan Herheim, who is regarded as one of the most significant and innovative opera directors of our time, visits from pianist Leif Ove Andsnes, Mahler Chamber Orchestra, NDR Radiophilharmonie, cellist Truls Mørk and violinist Renaud Capuçon, as well as Hector Berlioz’ ‘légende dramatique’, The Damnation of Faust, in concert with a star cast consisting of Paul Groves, Bryn Terfel and Christine Rice under the baton of Sir Andrew Davis.

About Bergen

Bergen has extended a warm welcome to its visitors for more than 900 years, and is a great place to start exploring the history, the culture and the world-famous nature of Norway.

The fjords are Scandinavia’s number one attraction, and Bergen is the gateway to a veritable kingdom of fjords. The city is surrounded by mountains, some of which are easily accessible by public transportation.  

The Bryggen wharf in the city centre has kept its historical appearance and is now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Bergen is also known for its many museums, and hosts an impressive collection by Edvard Munch. Every year one of Norway’s foremost contemporary artists presents a special Festival exhibition, and in 2012 you will also have a unique opportunity to view treasures from the Norwegian royal history.

The Festival programme will be announced on 8 December 2011.

The 2012 Bergen International Festival takes place from 23 May to 6 June.