Aberdeen Performing Arts’ International Season is set to make a return this summer, transforming the Granite City into a vibrant stage for a world-class celebration of the performing arts.
The upcoming season promises an innovative line-up of international performances, spanning circus, acrobatics, comedy, theatre, dance, and family-friendly events. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience trailblazing shows from leading global artists, all showcased in Aberdeen’s iconic venues.
Acts from Australia, Denmark, and Guinea will take to the stages of His Majesty’s Theatre and the Lemon Tree throughout July and August, presenting a series of unique performances never before seen in the city. This year’s programme builds on the success of the 2024 International Season, which marked a significant milestone in Aberdeen’s cultural calendar by bringing acclaimed international companies to the North-east for the first time.
Sharon Burgess, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts, commented:
“Introducing the International Season in 2024 was a landmark moment for Aberdeen Performing Arts. Last year’s thrilling programme brought incredible performers to Aberdeen, many of whom had never visited the city before. After receiving such a warm welcome from audiences, we’re delighted to return even bigger and better this year, broadening our horizons with performances that inspire, entertain, and spark curiosity in equal measure. What better way to connect with the world than through the lens of performance? We can’t wait to see the Granite City shine under the lights of a global stage.”
Highlights of the 2025 International Season include:
Circa’s Wolf (Australia): Following last year’s acclaimed run of Humans 2.0, the renowned Australian circus company returns to His Majesty’s Theatre from Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 July with Wolf, a daring acrobatic spectacle featuring ten extraordinary performers.
Afrique Cirque by Kalabante (Guinea): From Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 August at HMT, this energetic show celebrates the strength, agility, and joy of African youth, blending authentic choreography and live music.
Children Are Stinky (Australia): This award-winning, family-friendly circus comedy comes to the Lemon Tree on Sunday 27 July, inviting children to join in the fun and prove themselves against the show’s hilarious performers.
Women in Socks and Sandals (Denmark): Running Monday 28 to Wednesday 30 July at the Lemon Tree, this physical theatre and dance piece from Don Gnu explores the experience of women in male-dominated spaces with wit and daring stunts.
Little Squirt (Australia): Musical comedian Darby James brings this multi-award-winning cabaret about sperm donation to the Lemon Tree on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 August.
NIUSIA: On Sunday 31 August at the Lemon Tree, this intimate production weaves together family stories and cultural identity, resonating with audiences interested in heritage, history, and high-quality theatre.
Tickets for all performances are available to Friends of Aberdeen Performing Arts from Friday 25 April, and on general sale from Saturday 26 April via the Aberdeen Performing Arts website, by phone, or at the box office at His Majesty’s Theatre or the Music Hall.
With more acts to be announced soon, Aberdeen’s International Season is set to once again cement the city’s reputation as a leading destination for world-class live performance and cultural exchange.
