The 2026 Atlantic Festival lineup is shaping up to be a diverse and thought-provoking affair, with a mix of literary adaptations, sports narratives, and political discussions. One of the most intriguing additions is Zoe Kazan's 'East of Eden' series, a modern interpretation of John Steinbeck's classic novel. This series promises to bring new depth to the story of the Trask family, with a particular focus on the antihero Cathy Ames. The preview will be followed by a discussion with the co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer, Zoe Kazan herself, alongside star and executive producer Florence Pugh, and Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria. This panel promises to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the challenges of adapting a literary classic for the screen.
Another highlight is the interview with Colin Kaepernick, former NFL quarterback, who will be discussing his upcoming memoir, 'The Perilous Fight'. Kaepernick's journey has been a controversial one, and his memoir is expected to offer a unique perspective on his experiences in the NFL and beyond. Additionally, Padma Lakshmi will be talking about the future of creative work, a topic that is sure to spark interesting conversations about the evolving nature of the arts and media.
The festival also includes a range of political discussions, with Senator Mark Kelly and former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo set to participate. These talks will likely delve into the current political landscape and the challenges facing the United States. The festival's commitment to press freedom is further emphasized by the discussion between New York Times executive editor Joe Kahn, Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg, and PBS News Hour co-anchor Amna Nawaz.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the festival is the screening of the PBS docuseries 'Crime and Punishment', which explores the 250-year history of the U.S. criminal legal system. This documentary is sure to offer a comprehensive and thought-provoking look at a complex and often misunderstood aspect of American society. Additionally, the festival will present 'Playing POTUS', a presidential parody documentary, and 'A Soundtrack of a Nation', a collaboration between Julliard, composer Nicholas Britell, tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance, and bass-baritone Davóne Tine.
The 2026 Atlantic Festival is set to take place from September 17-19 at the Perelman Performing Arts Center in New York. The festival promises to be a rich and varied event, offering something for everyone, from literary enthusiasts to political aficionados and sports fans alike. With such a diverse lineup, the festival is sure to spark interesting conversations and provide a platform for thought-provoking discussions.
