At the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the European Festivals Association (EFA) two festivals rejoined the Association: the Festival Aix-en-Provence and Reykjavik Arts Festival. EFA is looking forward to collaboration with both festivals. The Festival Aix-en-Provence was founded in 1948 and has become very famous in the world of Opera festivals. Held in late June and July every year, it takes place at several venues in the city. The main venues include the outdoor Theatre de l'Archeveche in the former garden of the archbishop's palace, the 18th century Theatre du Jeu de Paume and the Grand Theatre de Provence. The Festival Aix-En-Provence was one of the 15 founding members of EFA in 1952. Director Bernard Foccroulle is convinced that opera, by its interdisciplinary nature, is the crucible for future artistic creation and an extraordinary space for dialogue. Under his leadership, the Festival has become an intense period of exchange and reflection, where spectators of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds congregate. Indeed, opera has the capacity to encompass broad horizons and so Bernard Foccroulle is keen to allow each opera production to reach its full artistic potential by hosting residencies for artists from other worlds. Furthermore, each season, free events, conferences, exhibitions and educational sessions are held in relation to the opera performances and concerts. In addition, the Académie européenne de musique further develops its activities by producing an opera production that goes on tour during the rest of the year. One of the eminent artistic events of Northern Europe, the Reykjavik Arts Festival was founded in 1970 upon the initiative by the pianist-conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy. The purpose of the festival is to promote Icelandic and international culture in all fields of art. The programmes offer a range of concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, dance and opera. In combination with its focus on Icelandic culture, past and present, the festival has hosted many outstanding international artists and performers. Furthermore, the Reykjavík Arts Festival awards each year an outstanding, cultural project in an Icelandic towns or in the countryside. The aim of the award is to stimulate cultural activity, to offer every Icelander an opportunity to enjoy international arts events, and to increase culture-related tourism. The festival’s Artistic Director is Hrefna Haraldsdóttir, the Executive Director is Guðrún Norðfjörð. Vladimir Ashkenazy has been honorary president from the outset. The patron is the President of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson.