Edinburgh Fest Focuses on America
Edinburgh International Festival 2026 highlights American creativity with jazz, opera, and folk music, themed "All Rise" for the USA's 250th The Guardian.
The "All Rise" theme coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States, although the festival will explore both the country's creativity and its history of cruelty. Highlights include performances of Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" by the Scottish Opera and Julia Bullock headlining a concert of American folk songs. Bullock will also be the artist in residence. John Adams' opera "Nixon in China," which recounts Nixon's visit to China in 1972, will also be featured. Nicola Benedetti, the festival director, emphasized the importance of international collaboration, especially given current global challenges. She also highlighted the festival's commitment to accessibility, aiming to reach audiences across Edinburgh.
