Chairperson’s Welcome

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2026 Belfast International Arts Festival.

For more than six decades, BIAF has created opportunities for audiences to experience the very best of contemporary arts and culture from Northern Ireland and across the globe. At a time when public discourse can often feel fractured and febrile, the arts matter more than ever. Festivals like BIAF provide spaces where ideas can be explored openly, where we encounter perspectives different from our own, and where communities can come together.

The Festival remains committed to the values that have guided it for generations: creativity, curiosity, inclusion, internationalism and the belief that culture can connect people.

This year marks a new chapter in Festival’s story. Following the retirement of Richard Wakely, we are delighted to welcome Chris McCreery as BIAF’s new Artistic Director and Chief Executive.

Richard’s contribution cannot be overstated. During twelve years of visionary leadership, he relaunched BIAF as an independent organisation, strengthened its international reputation, broadened its reach and established Belfast as a destination for ambitious artistic work. On behalf of the Board and everyone associated with Festival, I would like once again to express our gratitude.

As we look to the future, we are excited by the energy, ideas and leadership that Chris brings to the organisation. He joins Festival at a time of both opportunity and challenge for the arts sector, and his passion for artistic excellence, collaboration and audience engagement will help ensure BIAF continues to evolve while remaining true to the values that have shaped its success.

Belfast International Arts Festival continues to play an important role in the cultural life of our city and region. Through partnerships with artists, communities, venues and organisations, we create opportunities for participation, dialogue and discovery. We remain committed to ensuring that Festival is accessible and welcoming to everyone, and to showcasing a diversity of voices, perspectives and experiences.

We are immensely grateful for the continued support of our Principal Funder, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, together with Belfast City Council, Tourism Northern Ireland, the British Council, the Government of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, and our many partners, supporters and volunteers.

Most importantly, thank you to our audiences. Your enthusiasm, curiosity and support make Festival what it is. I invite you to explore this year’s programme and join us in celebrating another extraordinary season of creativity, imagination and connection

Fiona Kane
Chairperson
Belfast International Arts Festival