Panama’s International Performing Arts Festival Celebrates 20 Years and Announces 2026 Dates
Panama City is set to grow a hub for contemporary theater and dance once again with the 15th edition of the International Performing Arts Festival (FAE) scheduled for April 16-20, 2026. The festival, established in 2004, marks two decades of promoting performing arts in the country and is recognized internationally as a leading artistic event in the region.
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
Founded in 2004, the FAE began as a biennial event, transitioning to an annual festival in 2019. According to Roberto Enrique King, president of the FAE, the festival was created to address a perceived gradual development of contemporary dance and theater in Panama compared to other nations. The FAE has since become a cornerstone of the country’s cultural landscape, bringing together top-tier groups, companies, and instructors from around the world, with a particular focus on Ibero-America.
What to Expect at FAE 2026
The 2026 festival will feature a selection of the best performing arts groups and artists. The FAE Training Laboratory will also offer workshops, including theatrical clowning led by Mexican artists Silvia Merlo and Benjamín Pavón, and psychodrama workshops facilitated by Venezuelan specialists Patricia and Ariadne Betancourt based in Panama.
This year’s event will include performances from four countries. While organizers aim to expand the festival to other regions of Panama, current budgetary constraints imply the focus remains on events within the city.
Supporting the Arts and Community Impact
The FAE is not only a showcase for established artists but also a platform for nurturing emerging talent. The festival has a long-standing commitment to bringing artistic experiences to various neighborhoods and communities in Panama City. Donations of $10, $50, $100, or $500 contribute to the development of programs that positively impact children, young people, emerging artists, and families.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2026 festival are available through www.tustiquetes.com.
For more information about the festival, visit the official Facebook page: FAE Panama City on Facebook.