Festival 2011 to see East meet West

The Edinburgh International Festival is to welcome artists from China, India, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Vietnam next year as the Festival throws its focus on Asian cultures.

Festival director Jonathan Mills announced the theme and four groups making festival debuts at an event in Beijing, where he is providing a series of lectures on the benefits festivals can bring to cities.

In a programme called To the Far West, Mr Mills said he hoped to create an opportunity for audiences to explore the diverse and colourful work of contemporary Asian artists alongside traditional stories from their cultures.

Among those appearing for the first time will be the National Ballet of China, Shanghai Peking Opera Troupe, Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra and Vietnamese choreographer Ea Sola's company.

Mr Mills said: "The exquisite and sensual cultures of Asia have long inspired western artists.

"Festival 2011 sets these works alongside theatre, opera, music and dance from the diverse cultures of Asia, from Vietnam to China."