Glen Hansard | 1970 – 2026

Belfast International Arts Festival is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of singer-songwriter, actor and composer Glen Hansard.

A friend and longstanding artist of the Festival, Glen appeared across several editions, from performances with The Frames in 2007 and The Swell Season in 2008 (under Belfast Festival at Queen’s), to three unforgettable sold-out nights at the Grand Opera House in 2019 and 2021. He also joined a star-studded line-up for Dervish’s The Great Irish Songbook.

Rising to international acclaim as frontman of Irish rock band The Frames, Glen went on to forge an acclaimed solo career and make a lasting impact in the world of cinema. He appeared in The Commitments before winning an Academy Award for Once, alongside co-writer, co-star and fellow The Swell Season member Markéta Irglová.

Glen was due to return to Belfast this November as part of our 2026 Festival, performing at the Ulster Hall. All ticket holders will be contacted soon regarding next steps.

Our thoughts are with Glen’s family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.