Aberdeen Youth

Theatre, dance, and a diverse range of music flood Aberdeen venues in August as Aberdeen International Youth Festival (AIYF) takes over the Granite City.

Now in its 37th year, one of the longest running festivals in Scotland, AIYF has continuously evolved, bringing fresh and innovative projects to an expectant audience.

This year’s event is no exception, with festival organisers encouraging audiences to “share the excitement, see something new.” And with a vibrant and varied programme and prices that rival the local multiplex you really have no excuse not to give it a try.

“The 2009 festival sees us welcoming an array of talent from around the world, including dancers and storytellers from Africa, ballet and traditional dance from the Caribbean, contemporary dance from China, and singers from Norway,” explained Festival director Stewart Aitken.

International youth orchestras and an extensive chamber music programme have been pivotal to AIFY and this year is no exception with groups from the Basque, Portugal and Scotland.

Following on from last year’s huge success, Festival in the City on Sunday 2 August will bring the Festival into the city streets with free performances and events alongside the Gordon Highlanders Beating the Retreat and an international market.

Stewart added: “The Festival is a unique platform for young talent and Aberdeen becomes a hub for the brightest and most talented young minds from the international arts world. It is a true celebration of youthful creativity and innovation."