aUtUMn/WintEr 2010 tHE oFFicial MaGaZinE oF EdinBUrGH FEStivalS
festivals maga zine
tHE Spirit
oF tHE SEaSon Edinburgh’s Hogmanay in full force
IN THIS ISSUE:
tEllinG tall talES Storytelling takes the stage
WintEr WarMErS Places to beat the big chill
Scotland in all SEaSonS Year round festival fun
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Ring in the new
Be first in line for the world’s best New Year experience
festivals maga zine autumn/winter 2010
Contents Director’s letter Festival Calendar Winter Warmers Pursuits Telling Tall Tales Tattoo 2011 Hogmanay 10/11 Experience Authentic Edinburgh Scotland in All Seasons Stories from Abroad The Spirit of the Season Festival Moments
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festivals magazine contact us
We welcome all comments, questions, submissions and distribution enquiries. Please write to us at: info@edinburghfestivals.co.uk
festivals edinburgh
4 East Market St., Edinburgh, UK, EH8 8BG + (44) 0131 529 6763 www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk
contributors Sam Walters and Claudia Monteiro designed by graeme hogge / nexus24 - www.nexus24.co.uk templated by Lumsdon Design - www.chrislumsdon.com
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Telling Tall Tales
Storytelling takes the stage
contents
festivals magazine
Looking East
Experience authentic Eastern voices with this year’s storytelling festival
© lloyd SMith
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Scotland in all seasons
Year round fun in the festival city
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Winter warmers Wrap up and chill out in Edinburgh’s capital
© steve cook
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Festival calendar What’s on in Edinburgh
www.edin b urghfestiva l s. c o. uk
© james ross buddie
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festivals magazine
direCtor’s letter
director’s letter Letter from Festivals Edinburgh Director Faith Liddell
t
here is nothing more authentically scottish, nor more fantastically international, than the edinburgh festivals. the 12 festivals, strewn like jewels across the calendar, bring creativity, concepts and
community together in one of the world’s most beautiful settings. as the weather begins to cool and the scots prepare for winter it is worth remembering that there are still two magical festivals left in the scottish calendar, both core components of the festival landscape and a chance
scottish tradition, look no further.
Edinburgh is rightly proud of the tradition of its 12 yearround festivals, moving in pace with the seasons and ensuring that Edinburgh has an abundance on offer all through the year, and that the city moves through the seasons in a profound cycle of entertainment, excitement and authentically Scottish culture.
edinburgh’s hogmanay, scotland’s world-class new Year celebrations,
so why not hear tales from abroad on an atmospheric scottish evening, or warm gloved
is the most marvellous way to finish off the year. the beauty of edinburgh
hands with thousands of others in a winding torchlight procession, or take the time to view
is the perfect backdrop for four days of festivities, from fireworks to world
edinburgh’s astonishing skyline lit up against the dark of a winter night? edinburgh has
famous bands, torchlight processions and around 100 000 revellers at
something for everyone, in every season- just round the next corner or down the next alley,
the street Party joining hands to sing ‘auld lang syne’. it is as scottish
exploding across the night sky or sitting right in front of you.
to experience scotland at its most unique- darkened skies, roaring fires, streets and trees aglow with fairy lights and the anticipation of the culmination of the year just on the horizon. the scottish international storytelling festival links scotland’s wonderful tradition of oral history and storytelling to similar cultures in communities across the world. this year’s festival weaves its web around stories from scotland and the east, and the ties that bind China, india, Japan, thailand, malaysia and scotland together. for a welcoming, authentic slice of contemporary scotland, deeply rooted in hundreds of years of
as it comes and as international an experience as one can have, with thousands of visitors from across the globe.
enjoy the autumn/ winter copy of our festivals magazine, and we hope you will use it for inspiration, information and as a trusted guide to navigating the autumn and winter festivals.
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festivals magazine
festival Calendar
festival calendar
Edinburgh is the world’s festival city. With 12 leading festivals year-round, there is always something to explore.
22-31 October 2010 Scottish International Storytelling Festival
9-15 May 2011 Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival
engage with centuries of oral tradition, as ancient practices are brought alive in the present day. the accomplished scottish contributions to the art are complemented by an exciting showcase of global approaches.
enjoy a colourful programme of theatre, dance and puppetry to children and young people, giving younger generations the chance to experience edinburgh’s cultural wonders on their own terms.
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling see website >>
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/imaginate-festival see website >>
30 December - 2 January 2010/11 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
15-26 June 2011 Edinburgh International Film Festival
the world’s best new Year celebrations promise four days of events, concerts and spectacles, plus, of course, the famous street Party with its breathtaking fireworks display over edinburgh Castle.
see the latest in cutting-edge filmmaking with a host of screenings and talks straight from the studio. glamorous premieres, glittering personalities and genuine passion turn edinburgh into one of the filmic centres of europe.
see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/hogmanay 9-22 April 2011 Edinburgh International Science Festival discover the world’s premiere science festival; a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that captivates, inspires and entertains audiences of all ages and levels of expertise. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/internationalscience-festival
* Provisional dates
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see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-fi lm-festival 28 July - 4 September 2011* Edinburgh Art Festival appreciate a fine selection of works from some of the greatest artists of the past and present alike. edinburgh’s numerous galleries combine their efforts to create a network of inspiring exhibits that spans the whole city. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/art
456789101112 29 July - 7 August 2011 Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
13-29 August 2011 Edinburgh International Book Festival
listen to some of scotland’s most accomplished jazz and blues musicians as they explore the long history of the medium. virtuoso soloists and entertaining ensembles offer something for all, from the casual listener to the hardcore fanatic.
wander round the literary oasis or enjoy talks from a distinguished company of nobel Prize winners and emerging talents. the festival also offers one of the best children’s programmes in the country, making sure there’s something to do for all the family.
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/jazz-and-blues-festival
see website >>
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/book see website >>
5-27 August 2011 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
13 August - 5 September 2011 Edinburgh International Festival
witness in person the full power of the finest display of military ceremony around as talented musicians put on a stirring parade of impeccable skill and discipline, given added gravitas by the unparalleled backdrop of edinburgh Castle.
marvel at this pinnacle of scottish culture in which world-class dance, theatre and music are all available on the scottish stage. modern compositions are accompanied by new perspectives on classic pieces, all enacted by the finest performers and companies from the five continents of the world.
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/military-tattoo see website >>
5-29 August 2011 Edinburgh Festival Fringe experience the largest arts festival in the world, presenting a groundbreaking programme of comedy, theatre, music, exhibitions, dance, that is simply second-to-none. see website >>
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/fringe
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international see website >>
2-4 September 2011 Edinburgh Mela Celebrate edinburgh’s cultural diversity across one glorious outdoor weekend, as communities put on a programme of adventurous theatre and music, international guests, and mouthwatering food that will delight all those who attend. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/mela
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ADVERT
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As the weather turns chill, where better to wrap up and enjoy the season than in great bars and traditional pubs?
W
inter weather in Scotland is a cold but crisp affair, and the brisk atmosphere makes a cosy environment seem all the more tempting. There is no shortage of opportunities to counter the elements and
have a warming Edinburgh experience.
The best place to see off the winter chills is next to a roaring fireplace. www.monteithsbar.co.uk Monteiths offers just such protection, the power of which can be enhanced further with a bracing dram of speciality whisky. There is also an adventurous Scottish-influenced menu, with nourishing fare such as haggis tortellini with swede puree and whisky jus available.www.theskinny.co.uk/venue/5617Brass Monkey is another comfortable haven, with brass-monkey a fireplace situated right next to a set of rather comfy sofas. This small pub has several cosy nooks and crannies, the highlight of which is the cinema and bed room in the back If you’re looking to while away a day in comfort, the www.sheepheid.co.uk Sheep Heid Inn is an excellent option. Located in Duddingston on the southeast side of Arthur’s Seat, this historic pub boasts an array of fine whisky and beer, along with traditionally warming Scottish dishes such as the famous haggis, neeps and tatties (that’s haggis with mashed turnips and potatoes). The quaint interior is filled with intriguing knick-knacks, and entertainment is provided by numerous board games as well as a small bowling alley. www.royal-oak-folk.com The Royal Oak is an Edinburgh institution. Consisting primarily of an intimately small common room and offering a reliably good selection of ale, the true charm of the pub comes from its nightly performances of traditional folk as well as
winter warmers
festivals magazine
© photography by james ross buddie
winter warmers
Throughout the Christmas season, the open areas around the Mound are transformed into bustling winter markets, selling a vast variety of Scottish and German wares and handicrafts. You can find all kinds of delicious hot snacks as well, but there’s nothing better for staving off the cold than a comforting cup of Glühwein, a German mulled wine which has been gratefully adopted by Edinburgh locals.
contemporary pieces. The musicians display their talents purely for the pleasure of
For a delicious non-alcoholic beverage to heat you up, you can’t go wrong with
doing so, and their passion ensures a night at the Oak will make you forget any
Chocolate Soup specialising as the name suggests in hot chocolate (which is served in www.cosycoffeeshops.co.uk/2008/10/chocolate-soup-edinburgh.html
cares brought on by the weather.
bowls!), the café offers a vast range of customisable drinks to suit your mood.
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festivals magazine
Pursuits
escape to edinburgh Book your place at the world’s best New Year.
if you feel like doing something special for new Year this year, why not make an unforgettable holiday of it and celebrate the occasion the scottish way? new Year takes on a whole new meaning in scotland and edinburgh’s hogmanay is the definitive expression. www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk is pleased to offer comprehensive hogmanay packages to suit all of your needs. only have a few days spare? You can still live it up at the world-famous street Party and take in the sights of this wonderful city. or, if you want to stretch your stay, you could head off into the jaw-dropping mountainous landscapes of the highlands for a once-in-a-lifetime trip. no matter what you’re looking for, our range of packages will provide something that suits you. we’ll take care of accommodation, itineraries and tickets, leaving you free to enjoy hogmanay without any mundane distractions. we’re regularly adding new packages to our existing line-up, so have a look on the website at. edinburgh is waiting!
see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/hogmanay-packages-2010to-2011
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festival facts from the relative peace and quiet of autumn, we can look back on the glorious chaos of summer in edinburgh with a degree of perspective. sifting through the facts and figures, it’s now clear that it’s been yet another superb year for the festivals. here is a selection of interesting examples.
40,254
The record number of unique performances that were given on the Fringe, nearly 6000 more than the previous year.
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The number of authors longlisted for the 2010 Man Booker Prize, 10 of whom participated in this year’s Book Festival.
Pursuits
festivals magazine
storytelling in the limelight Edinburgh prepares to host the 21st International Storytelling Festival from 22-31 october edinburgh will host the 21st scottish international storytelling festival, a celebration of authentic voices from home and abroad. this year’s theme will be ‘eastern routes’, a wide-ranging category which draws on the expertise of tale-spinners from Japan, China, malaysia, thailand and india. these countries all have their own highly-developed storytelling traditions which complement scotland’s own. academics and professionals in the field will give talks and performances, while other events seek to involve the community at large. the whole emphasis of the festival is on group participation in a cultural and social sense. the lion’s share of the activity takes place in the scottish storytelling Centre on the royal mile. encompassing both an attractive modern facility and the medieval John knox house, the centre is a striking physical testament to the fusion of old and new, and is the perfect location for this contemporary revitalisation of one of humanity’s oldest arts. learn more about the storytelling and buy event tickets: Learn more about thefestival Storytelling Festival www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling and buy event tickets >>
217,000
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The average number of people who experience the full force of the Tattoo in person every year.
The percentage of tickets to the International Festival which were sold to Edinburgh residents.
51
Sean Connery’s age this year, an anniversary celebrated by the Film Festival
1995
The year in which the Mela Festival was first held.
The number of visual art galleries in Edinburgh, only exceeded by London in the UK.
220
The number of events at the 2010 Science Festival.
0-16
The age range catered for at the Imaginate Festival. www.edin b urghfestiva ls. C o. uk
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Pursuits
be in the know Everything you need to know about making your experience at the Edinburgh Festivals amazing. if you’ve decided to come to edinburgh to enjoy one of the dozen festivals it hosts, you’ve already guaranteed yourself a memorable experience. whether you’re intending to make the trip specifically for one of the standalone events such as the storytelling festival, or simply to show up and improvise once you get here, it’s definitely worth considering some of the essentials you’ll need to cover. edinburghfestivals.co.uk contains a handy set of guides to help you on your way, covering everything from accommodation and travel to a survival kit and tips for late arrivals (so there’s nothing to stop you dropping everything and coming on impulse if you like!) with just a little forward planning, you can make sure that the entirety of your edinburgh experience is as close to perfect as possible.
browse the website >> www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk
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© pHotoGrapHy By GraEME HoGGE - nEXUS24
festivals magazine
PURSUITS
festivals magazine
edinburgh for beginners Edinburgh offers an exciting blend of cultural sophistication and intriguing scenery that is impossible to find elsewhere. It has long been at the heart of Scotland’s cultural development, its role in the groundbreaking Scottish Enlightenment even earning it the nickname ‘the Athens of the North’. Spectacular buildings and monuments dating back to the Middle Ages abound, lending Edinburgh a picturesque splendour. Some of the most luxurious amenities in the country can also be found here.
But the capital has a more rugged side as well. It is alternatively known as ‘Auld Reekie’ for the smoky atmosphere that enveloped the streets in the city’s previous incarnations, and the Old Town is riddled with twisting alleyways and forgotten vaults that are remnants of that period. Furthermore, the skyline is dominated by the dramatic peak of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano which looms above the city. These two differing sides of Edinburgh combine to form an extraordinary backdrop of ages past, which elevates the superb content of Edinburgh’s festivals to even greater heights.
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festivals magazine
TELLING TALL TALES
telling tall tales Since the earliest days of human interaction, stories have been used to share, explore and unite.
T
he practice of oral storytelling is one of the most ancient kinds of human expression, and the development of such a tradition is a hallmark of civilization. The image of early people huddled round a fire listening to a tale is still an evocative one, which seems to contain the very essence
of humanity, as groups of people join together to learn about the world while also celebrating an individual’s talent. The sophisticated artistic forms that have grown out of this basic beginning are the subject of the Scottish Storytelling Festival. Practically all cultures have developed some kind
of the world and explain seemingly inexplicable
of verbal storytelling, in which an individual or
occurrences is a basic human trait, which often
group of skilled craftmasters provide the focus for
manifests itself in the form of storymaking.
an audience. For example Chinese storytelling,
Approaching problems as a group is a secure and
or shuoshu, is referred to as a long established
affirmative way of doing this. Another relevant
tradition in some of the early writings of that
characteristic is the desire to fashion narrative
civilization, and has developed a whole host of
structures as a framework for experiences, as this
regional variation. Another well-preserved and
makes sense to our own perception of the passage
famous example of the art is the One Thousand
of time. Storytelling is a direct manifestation
and One Nights, also known as the Arabian
of human urges and the search for a deeper
Nights, a compilation of verbally composed
meaning to life.
tales reproduced in written form. (One of the performers at the Storytelling Festival this year will
While some of these functions might not apply
be presenting some of these tales).
to modern audiences in the same way, there
.
are still any number of reasons to take part in
Storytelling performs a variety of invaluable
the experience. The richness of the tradition
social functions in its traditional environment. It
makes it easy to enjoy storytelling purely for
helps foster a sense of community and shared
its unquestionable artistic merits. Furthermore,
experience between its listeners. The tradition can
communal enjoyment of an activity is an extremely
also act as a way of memorably communicating
healthy thing that is, for better or worse, a less
of values and standards, while the personal
common pursuit in the modern world. Approaches
connection between the teller and his audience is
to storytelling have changed greatly in the past
a healthy and empathic one. Storytelling is often
century with the advent of powerful new mediums
enjoyed solely as a form of entertainment and
such as film, and oral practises are largely in
distraction, which is in itself a vital human pursuit.
decline. Fortunately, this venerable tradition is kept alive by skilled speakers like those attending
Oral tradition is also an ideal medium for
the Storytelling Festival this year, and it thoroughly
philosophical exercises. The need to make sense
deserves to be supported.
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TELLING TALL TALES
festivals magazine
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festivals magazine
2011 Tattoo
2011 tattoo T
he Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the foremost http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/military-tattoo displays of military ceremony in the world, is the most reliably
The event is regularly attended by eminent personalities - last
attended of all Edinburgh’s festivals. Around 217,000 people
Abdullah and Queen Rania of Jordan. In fact, the whole event is
snap up tickets every year, and it is not uncommon for the entire
summer the proceedings were honoured by the surprise visit of King dignified with a degree of regal splendour, receiving both the official
allocation to sell out well in advance of the event. With this in mind,
Royal title and the patronage of Princess Anne. Past Tattoos have
it is definitely a good idea to book early to make sure of a place at
always featured an extraordinary array of domestic and international
the 2011 spectacle.
talent, and have always been extremely well-received. With such an esteemed pedigree, the 2011 Tattoo’s triumph is already assured.
The date to remember is 10:00 GMT on Wednesday 1 December,
Make sure you don’t miss out!
when tickets for the 2011 Tattoo will go on sale through the event’s official website. There will be 25 individual performances in total, with international guests including the South African Navy Band and a Mounted Bicycle Band from the Netherlands, alongside the legendary attractions of the rousing Massed Pipes and Drums and the stirring Lone Piper. There will also be an added bonus for 2011 attendees, as they will be the first to enjoy the £16 million grandstand facility that will be constructed for next summer. The new arena will offer comfortable seating and comprehensive amenities, enhancing the surroundings of an already superb show.
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Learn more about the Tattoo and register http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/military-tattoo for ticket updates here >>
EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY 2010/11
festivals magazine
edinburgh’s hogmanay 2010/11
Thursday 30 December 2010 – Sunday 2 January 2011
Mile to a Son et Lumiére and fireworks finale on Calton Hill.
Throw in the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks which
Then it’s onto the main event, the world famous Street Party
take place overhead from Edinburgh Castle and this is one of
presents an incredible mix of live music and entertainment,
the most stunning New Year events in the world.
The world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is the world’s
DJ’s, giant screens, outdoor bars and the world famous
original and best New Year celebrations. Four days of
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks. The original and
A full programme of events then takes place on New Year’s
incredible events that sees over 250,000 people take to
best New Year celebrations in the world!
day to clear the head and keep the party going into 2011, featuring music, dance, activities and art.
the streets over the festival to welcome the New Year with a programme of spectacular music, dance, street theatre, art
Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro and indie legends The
and lots, lots more.
Charlatans are performing at the Concert in the Gardens,
Full programme details will be made early November but
the music and fireworks spectacular within the Street Party
announced to date are:
The opening event of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2011 is the
which guarantees you see in the New Year in style. Set beneath
spectacular Torchlight Procession, tens of thousands of torch
the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, The bands will
carriers create a river of fire from Edinburgh’s historic Royal
perform the last gig of the year and the first of the New Year.
Click here for full event and www.edinburghshogmanay.com ticket details >>
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festivals magazine
experience authentic edinburgh
© chris watt
experience authentic edinburgh Scotland’s inventions are familiar to the whole world – who hasn’t heard of the bike, the telephone and (jumping a few centuries here) that most trusted of drivers’ guides, the highway cat’s eye? But Scotland’s many revolutionary trickeries don’t stop with gadget’s. It’s actually the nation’s stunning wealth of culture that makes it such an exciting place to be – and where better to start than Edinburgh?
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experience authentic edinburgh
festivals magazine
Music Of all Scottish musical practices, it is the bagpipes that have been most lovingly adopted by the world at large. Like flowers in spring, pipers find their way to the busiest thoroughfares of Edinburgh during the
Poetry
sunnier months.
Auld Lang Syne, one of the most regularly sung songs in the English-speaking world
You can’t miss the drama and entertainment
(eclipsed only by Happy Birthday and For
contained in the large-scale performances
He’s a Jolly Good Fellow), is indelibly
put together by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with hundreds of pipers coming
linked with the beginning of a new year. A traditional Scottish ballad, the words of its
Cuisine
modern form are the work of Robert Burns,
Scots have a bit of a reputation for extreme
one of Scotland’s literary heroes whose
foods of the fried variety, unfairly so (fried
Whisky
close with a moving solo performance by the
birthday is still celebrated every year. Where
pizza, anyone?). Modern Scotland is an
Few visitors come to Scotland without having
Lone Piper. Simply unmissable.
more appropriate to experience it than hand
exciting place to eat and buy fresh produce
a wee dram o’ whisky. This is the place where
in hand with your friends, singing along with
– many of Britain’s up-and-coming chefs are
the stuff was invented after all (if you stand on
And last but not the least comes the Ceilidh,
thousands of others at the Princes Street
currently working in the country. Edinburgh
top of a hill with a brisk wind blowing on your
traditional Scottish dances which are very
Hogmanay party.
alone currently hosts five Michelin-starred
face you begin to understand why...). There
much alive and well and continue to be
restaurants, a phenomenal ratio for a city
are fantastic places in Edinburgh to savour
embraced by all. Scots like nothing more
If Burns was alive no doubt he would be one
of only half a million inhabitants. Edinburgh
the best malts: the Scottish Malt Whisky
than dressing up in kilts (well, the men that
of the festivals’ ambassadors: bohemian,
comes second only to London (note: word
Society is the equivalent of an encyclopedia
is!) and it’s a true testimony to the country’s
talented and passionate in equal measure.
order change) in the number of cafes and
of whisky, stocking the best varieties that
exciting passion for their own roots that
There is something magical about a nation
restaurants per capita. So remember to bring
come from all sorts of weird and wonderful
people of all generations get together for an
who chooses to gather around the table and
a healthy dose of appetite.
independent distilleries all over the country.
evening of song and dance. Standard pieces
Regarded by many as the best in the world,
such as the Gay Gordons and the Dashing
the dance floor, every January, to celebrate
together in celebration of military musical traditions. Every night the show comes to a
the life and work of an eighteenth-century
And if you really want to tap into those
there is no shortage of places in Edinburgh to
White Sergeant are always on the menu,
poet. Thousands of Scots – friends, families,
world-legendary tales of exotic Scottish fare,
experience some good quality Scotch.
but don’t let a lack of knowledge put you
work colleagues – prepare the Burns supper
make sure you sample the local haggis,
Scotland’s national drink plays a central part
off - most good organisers happily take you
celebration every year, a night-long event
an ingenious and creative concoction of
in the Hogmanay tradition of first-footing.
through the steps first!
packed with humorous speeches written in
sheeps innards, onion, oatmeal and spices
The first person of the year to set foot in
Burn’s style, songs, copious amounts of food
all wrapped up neatly in a sheep’s stomach.
another’s dwelling brings the homeowner a
If you don’t fancy such an exhausting
(including the very local Haggis), toasts to
Trust us: nothing can make you happier on a
gift, which more often than not is whisky. It’s
experience, there are also a number of pubs
the Lassies and Laddies and of course the
cold winter’s day. And if the locals try to pull
difficult to find a more unmistakably Scottish
in the city where you can relax and listen
Address to a Haggis, the ‘great chieftain o’
your leg with tall tales of wild haggis beasts
practice, or indeed a more agreeable one.
to local musicians playing traditional folk
the puddin-race!’ are all to be found, and
roaming through the Highlands...
When in Scotland for New Year, be prepared.
melodies. This community tradition is still just
invariably add up to a fantastic evening.
act surprised and roll with it.
Remember to carry a bottle on you!
as warming today as it was centuries ago.
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festivals magazine
sCotland in all season
scotland in season With 12 festivals year round there is always a reason to indulge in a Scottish experience.
e
dinburgh is scotland’s capital and the heart of the country’s vibrant culture scene, and
the summer festivals cater for everyone, from those seeking the most lavish productions to the
home to the world’s leading festivals. as the seasons turn, so too do edinburgh’s vibrant
curious minds who tread the pavements looking for the next big (but for the time obscure) acts.
offerings. scotland is a magical place to visit in all seasons.
here you can find a full spectrum of artists’ ambitions: large opera houses, amateur theatre
Spring in Edinburgh
troupes, cutting edge experimentation, and old-school crowd-pleasing entertainment.
after the rigors of a cold winter, spring returns scotland to a riot of colour. and it’s not just the
Autumn and Winter in Edinburgh
birds that fly north- people also come out to celebrate. and what better place than edinburgh
the colder seasons suit scotland like a glove. nowhere else in the world will you find the cosiest
and its festival offerings?
pubs or the largest variety of heart-warming traditions (and a certain drink invented to fight off all chills and ills). the scots greet the cold weather with unabashed cheer and an unrivalled
there is no better playground than the Edinburgh Science Festival, whose very first event-back in
programme of celebrations to match.
the 1980s - had valentina tereshkova, the first woman in space, as a guest star. this is a festival of firsts, featuring the most groundbreaking scientists and world-shattering discoveries. with
Join in on the communal Storytelling Festival as it takes audiences on a journey through
workshops and demonstrations covering every subject imaginable- from the science of ghosts to
scotland and the five continents of the world, with the best storytellers flocking to the old town
chocolate and laughter (and the chemistry of love), this is a favourite with families. best of all?
to share legends and tales that have mapped generations of communities and shaped history all
the adults get to play too.
around the globe.
The Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival is a children’s delight- a packed programme of the
as the dark nights set in, scotland becomes the perfect backdrop for halloween, bonfire nights,
best dance and theatre in the world, designed specifically for children and young people. this
the world-famous hogmanay (that’s scots for new Year) and the unbeatable tour de force that
is one of the country’s most treasured gems- once it ends its edinburgh run, the festival tours all
is burns night in January.
over the country peppering its magic through the mountains and valleys of scotland. which brings us to the new Year. what better way to see the bells in than at edinburgh’s
Summer in Edinburgh
hogmanay? Join the torchlight procession as 25,000 people carry their torches through the
the summer festival season kicks off with the red carpet wonder brought about by the
architecturally-stunning centre of edinburgh. dance beneath the stars with 100,000 revellers
Film Festival. if you’re in town in June expect to bump into a couple of hollywood names,
at the world famous Street Party, with live music stages, Ceilidh dancing, scottish rock band
casually going about their business.
biffy Clyro and one of the world’s greatest fireworks displays above the city’s Castle. listed as one of the top experiences in the world in david freeman’s bestselling book ‘100 things to do
and then it all quickly shifts to august. august wouldn’t be august without the edinburgh summer festivals - there is really nothing else in the world that compares: over 20,000 artists and thinkers, half a million visitors, 2.5 million tickets sold (that’s the equivalent of selling out the sydney opera house every night for a whole year). there is literally something for every taste: jazz and blues, visual art, theatre, comedy, dance, opera, rock and pop music, classical music, literature, talks, exhibitions, military music and parades.
before You die’, this is one unmissable way of seeing a fresh new Year in.
stories from abroad
festivals magazine
stories from abroad
This year, the Storytelling festival turns East to embrace storytelling across the east-west divide
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festivals magazine
stories from abroad
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cotland revels in its own oral heritage, but also
part of a wider Chinese storytelling culture, shuoshu, which
recognises the literary treasures found elsewhere
is one of the most ancient of all human creative pursuits.
in the world.
Chinese Traditional Storytelling: A Yangzhou Master brings Ma Liaxing to Scotland to demonstrate pinghua to new
The Scottish International Storytelling Festival will this year
audiences, as well as the foremost academician involved in
welcome a host of guests from all over Asia to help explore
its study, Vibeke Børdahl.
the theme of ‘Eastern Routes’. This is a celebration of some of the world’s great oral traditions, which are kept alive by
There are also several events taking place in the beautiful
the skill of their craftmasters, which also seeks to examine
and soothing surroundings of the Royal Botanic Garden,
shared Scottish and Asian experiences.
which link their stories of the Orient directly to their venue. In Garden Music and Stories, Frieda Morrison and David
This year the festival is honoured by the visit of
Mitchell pay tribute to the eastern origins of some of the
representatives of the Ainu people, the indigenous
Garden’s plants, and relate some of the lively stories
inhabitants of the Japanese island of Hokkaido, who possess
associated with their arrival in Scotland. In Scrolls and
a rich literary canon. The most striking pieces are the
Stories, Gurupada Chitrakar, a practitioner of the Bengali
heroic sagas, known as yukar, which feature a first person
tradition known as Patua, interweaves music and art to tell
perspective, rhythmic delivery and a marked, steady beat.
several tales, including that of William Roxburgh, the Scottish
The power of these tales is enhanced by their rarity - there
scientist known as ‘the Father of Indian Botany’.
could be as few as 25000 Ainu left, and the number of these who can speak the unique language has dwindled to fewer
The last night of the festival happens to fall on Halloween,
than a hundred. In a series entitled A Friendship Forever:
an event which has its roots in Scottish traditions (the word
The Ainu of Japan, Shiro Kayano, son of the great guardian
itself is a Scottish one). While the date was originally the
of Ainu culture Shigeru Kayano, continues his father’s
last day of the Celtic year, Halloween has since morphed
legacy with talks on his people’s history and traditions, while
into a worldwide phenomenon, and the festival has fittingly
Tomatsu Nabesawa gives authentic retellings of the folktales
prepared a uniquely global take on this spiritual occasion.
as they have been told for generations. George MacPherson
At Night of the Circle: All Hallows Eve, an international group
provides further insight from the perspective of another
of accomplished storytellers will combine their considerable
region that has suffered severe cultural trauma in recent
talents for a special evening of interweaving traditions.
centuries - the Highlands of Scotland. The city of Yangzhou has a remarkable past, stretching back over millennia, in which it was one of the most important
Tickets to these exciting events and more are on sale now. You can order them in person at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, online at www.hubtickets.co.uk or over the phone
centres of the old Chinese Empire. Its distinguished but often
on +44 131 556 9579. The whole programme promises to deliver an involving and
painful history has provided a home for an oral practice
heartfelt experience that will affirm old connections and forge new ones as well.
of exceptional detail and power, known as Yangzhou pinghua. These works are typically spoken word only, and
www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling Learn more about the Storytelling Festival and buy tickets here >>
are often performed over a series of months. This art is
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stories from abroad
festivals magazine
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the spirit of the season It is the season of good cheer and of new beginnings, at the heart of it all is Scotland’s largest celebration.
T
he celebration of the New Year has
that can be traced back to a pagan fire festival.
1950s, Hogmanay was a more celebrated festival
acquired a special significance in Scotland,
However, the date has retained a central position
than Christmas. While this is no longer the case,
to the extent of it acquiring its own unique
in Scotland, partly because of the emphasis
this unusual historical focus has created a happy
name, Hogmanay. Like many important days in
placed upon it over Christmas by Calvinists in
tradition of sociable revelry that persists into the
the modern world, the event has tangled roots
the early modern period. Even until as late as the
present day.
festivals magazine
THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
taken on new meanings and traditions in Edinburgh through the development of an official programme of celebratory events, which has seen the capital become the ‘Home of Hogmanay’. First begun in 1992, the programme has become one of the biggest New Year celebrations in the world. The centrepiece of the programme is always the Street Party on Princes Street, which regularly attracts around 100 000 visitors. The celebrations are even screened live on BBC Scotland to show the rest of the nation how it’s done. The Concert in the Gardens has hosted a number of A-list acts, both the stars of the moment and musical legends. Last year saw the return to Edinburgh of universally popular ska band Madness, while in 2001 the country’s favourite musical twins The Proclaimers brought the audience alive. Other performers have included Kasabian, Blondie, Groove Armada and KT Tunstall. The third vital component of the festivities is the Midnight Moment, which ushers the New Year in with a spectacular fireworks display which can be seen from all over the city. Simultaneously, the party-goers on Princes Street join hands and sing Auld Lang Syne in
Over the past two decades, Hogmanay has
a stirring show of camaraderie.
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© lloyd smith
THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
festivals magazine
Š lloyd smith
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festivals magazine
THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
© chris watt
© chris watt
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THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
© lloyd smith
© chris watt
festivals magazine
The line-up for this year continues this whole foolproof scheme, with an extraordinary and friendly party backed by astonishing light, sound and scenery. This is the perfect way to say hello to 2011. http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/hogmanay Learn more about Edinburgh’s Hogmanay here>>
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festivals magazine
FESTIVAL MOMENTS
Crowds buzzing at the Fringe’s Pleasance venue.
Engaging children with world class theatre at the Imaginate Festival Š Treegonk@Blipfoto
FESTIVAL MOMENTS
festival moments
festivals magazine
The Jaipur Kawa circus enthrall at the Mela.
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Massed pipes and drums on the Esplanade
festivals magazine
FESTIVAL MOMENTS
Sydney Orchestra takes the stage at the Edinburgh International Festival.
Jazz festival enthusiasts take to the Royal Mile in Clandemonium
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FESTIVAL MOMENTS
festivals magazine
The Gospel at Colonus staged at the Edinburgh International Festival
Making sense of the world around with learning and experiments
Relaxing in the comfort of Charlotte Square Gardens
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