The Vibrant Arts Scene in Aberdeen This October
Aberdeen is set to come alive this October with two vibrant festivals that promise to inspire, uplift, and get you moving to the beat. Citymoves Dance Agency and sound are joining forces to bring you an epic music and dance season like no other. From 17th to 20th October, Citymoves presents DanceLive 2024, a festival of dance that will showcase innovative performances from local, national, and international artists. Meanwhile, soundfestival 2024 will take place from 19th to 27th October, celebrating 20 years of championing new music with a diverse mix of concerts and workshops featuring contemporary composers and renowned musicians.
DanceLive 2024: A Celebration of Movement and Expression
Citymoves Dance Agency is gearing up to host its annual DanceLive festival from 17th to 20th October. This year’s festival promises to be a feast for the senses, with a lineup of performances that explore themes of community, shared experiences, and togetherness. Lynn Shaw, Citymoves DanceLive manager, highlights the rich array of dance styles, exploration, and storytelling that will be showcased during the festival. From family-friendly shows like “My Friend Selkie” to thought-provoking performances like “Sense Of Centre” by Jack Webb, DanceLive 2024 offers something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the standout performances at DanceLive 2024 is “Small Town Boys” by Shaper/Caper, which won the Proud Scotland Creative Arts Award 2024. This interactive show delves into the world of queer nightlife during the 80s AIDS crisis, blending dance and spoken word to bring to life the joy and tragedy of that era. Another must-see performance is the Scottish Premiere of “NOW” by Jasmin Vardimon Company, a reflection on the present moment and the continuous movement of time.
Soundfestival 2024: A Musical Extravaganza
soundfestival 2024 will kick off on 19th October, celebrating two decades of promoting new music in Aberdeen. Director Fiona Robertson highlights the festival’s commitment to championing contemporary composers and providing a platform for both established and emerging talents. With a lineup that includes Graham Fitkin, Dame Evelyn Glennie CH, and international ensembles like defunensemble and Ensemble Temporum, soundfestival promises a diverse mix of concerts and workshops that will captivate music lovers of all ages.
One of the highlights of soundfestival 2024 is the Northern Connection project, a unique partnership between Scotland, Finland, and Norway. This collaboration will see specially commissioned works by composers from each country performed by their respective ensembles, showcasing the cultural diversity and creativity of the participating nations. Additionally, installations like “Dialects of the Deep” by John Andrew Wilhite will immerse audiences in a multisensory experience that combines glass sculptures with soundscapes inspired by the sea.
As Aberdeen prepares to host these two dynamic festivals in October, audiences can look forward to a month filled with creativity, innovation, and the joy of live performance. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for something different to do this fall, Citymoves DanceLive and soundfestival are sure to leave you inspired and uplifted. So mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of the arts in Aberdeen this October.