July 27, 2026
What's to be cooked for the last of DokuNights is a feast for the ears.
Starting off strong, the authentic collective of "Tirana-Tirona Allstars," will demonstrate that Central Albania's folk music holds a well-deserved place in every festivity. Much like the hugging of an "A-turned-O," the warmth and lively rhythms welcome the audience to dance DokuFest's closing night away.
Tirana-Tirona Allstars is an ensemble created especially by Edit Pula and her collaborators to record 'Tirana 100', an album featuring the finest traditional music of Tirana. Produced as a musical postcard commissioned by the Municipality of Tirana to mark the 100th anniversary of Tirana becoming the capital, the ensemble has received widespread international recognition since its formation in 2020. Among its achievements are the Best Album of the Year 2021 award, as well as winning the Songlines Music Awards 2022 in the 'Best Group' category after being shortlisted among the top four finalists.
The album 'Tirana 100' reflects the richness of the city's cultural heritage and artistic spirit. It represents the very best of Tirana's musical tradition while also showcasing the folk music of Central Albania.
To create an album that was as authentic and vibrant as possible, the project brought together a group of virtuoso instrumentalists and singers, including veteran performers of Tirana's musical tradition alongside younger musicians carrying that heritage forward. The team also collaborated with leading professionals from the United Kingdom, including BBC sound engineer Martin Appleby, who specializes in live field recordings. The musical arrangements were overseen by Professor Lucy Duran, an award-winning radio presenter and music producer. Both are renowned experts on Albanian traditional music, having co-produced the BBC Radio 3 documentary series 'World Routes Albania' in 2011.
Tirana-Tirona AllStars will perform on August 15, from 21:00 at Andrra Stage. The evening will continue with the sets of Diamin, Richi, Tam Tam.
