Pyrenean churches filled with dance and music

Until June 30, the Valls d'Àneu region of the Catalan Pyrenees is hosting the 28th edition of the Dansàneu cultural festival, which this year aims to strengthen its links with the local heritage by filling local churches with music and dance.

As part of the focus on local heritage, before each performance audiences will receive an explanation of the history and significance of the venues in the localities of Esterri d'Àneu, Alt Àneu, Espot and Guingueta d'Àneu.

A duet between Sol Picó and Marco Mezquida kicked off the festival on Tuesday, which will also see performances by Lídia Pujol, Jaume Sangrà with Carles Marigó, the productions 'Àer', 'Teia', and 'Sa Mateixa' and the Sant Martí and Ciutat Comtal traditional dance groups. 

Festival director Rut Martínez said the festival was aiming for "sustainability and artistic rigour," and she pointed out that one aspect that attracted top artists to the festival was the opportunity to perform in the region's unique Romanesque churches.