THE BRIDGE OF FRIENDSHIP USA – BIH – WESTERN BALKANS

The “Illyricum / Ilirikum” Foundation, as organizer, is proud to propose a gala concert and cultural visit that will connect the peoples of the United States of America and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The event will be held at the world-famous “Sarajevo City Hall” palace, a symbol of the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, on August 16, 2026, at 8:00 pm (8:00 pm). The importance of this event is exceptional, especially because it brings BiH and the region back into the focus of the current American administration, and this event coincides with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the USA and the beginning of significant economic investments in our country and the region as a whole.

The guests of exceptional honor are distinguished American opera artists – soprano Leah Anne Myers and mezzo-soprano Jacqueline Aldana Ledesma – accompanied by a member of the delegation, Mr. John Wesley Myers. In addition to the ceremonial concert, the visit includes a tour through Bosnia and Herzegovina (Sarajevo, Mostar and Banja Luka) and neighboring countries – Montenegro, Croatia, Albania and Kosovo – with a visit to the most important historical and tourist attractions.

The concert will feature for the first time the Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir “Ilirikum”, composed of dozens of artists from across the region, under the baton of Maestro Emir Nuhanović, Mehmed Meša Bajraktarević, and Milenko Karović as well as the most famous performers of classical, pop-rock and ethno/sevdah music with a live TV broadcast on several TV and radio stations in BiH and the region.

The goal of the project is to build a new, strong bridge of friendship between the American and Balkan people, based on culture, mutual respect and common values.