Bergen International Festival 2016 | Page 5

PREFACE
FESTSPILLENE I BERGEN 2016
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Challenge your barriers

Our world view is changing dramatically , and the Nordic spirit and our fundamental beliefs are being increasingly challenged – both favourably and adversely . This is reflected in this year ’ s festival programme .
We are experiencing a world at our doorstep as people cross borders both voluntarily and involuntarily . Barriers have been broken down and rebuilt . The dream of a great European fellowship has been replaced by chaos , both on our maps and in our minds .
Art has an inherent wish to be without limitations . It has a desire to break down barriers and create an understanding of the unexpected in order to craft a narrative for people in today ’ s world . in return you meet the festival ’ s many offerings with curiosity and an open mind . We disrupt the town and offer a substantial and diverse programme of music , theatre , dance , performance , debate , and much more . The festival creates a breathing space to inhale fresh air and think new thoughts .
We challenge you to confront your personal barriers , defy accepted rules , and expose yourself to a renewed perception of our wonderful world .
Welcome !
This year ’ s festival uses the theme “ Barriers ”: A theme clearly visible in art that defies global challenges , and if you dare to open your ears and eyes to discovery , you will see the theme unfold in a number of areas of our varied programme . The American composer and pianist Philip Glass is one such artist , who gathers musical inspiration from all cultures of the world to create music without artificial limitations . He is one of the major artists we highlight in 2016 and you can meet him during the festival .
The absolutely most important thing to us is our audience – of all ages . All with sky-high expectations for the festival – and rightly so . Our ambition is not only to meet these expectations , but to create magical moments when an audience experiences artistry that both enriches and transforms .
The Bergen International Festival aims to delight , challenge and include . We hope that
Anders Beyer Festival Director Twitter : @ AndersBey
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