SprinG 2011 tHE oFFicial MaGaZinE oF EdinBUrGH FEStiValS
festivals maga zine
diScoVEr yoUrSElF From outer space to the inner mind at the Science Festival
IN THIS ISSuE:
the great outdoors Take advantage of the Spring sun and head into Edinburgh to catch the best view of the scenic city.
Macbeth and other stories Free your mind at the Imaginate Festival
plan your visit
Get the most out of the Spring season
24 festivals maga zine SPRING 2011
Contents Director’s letter Festival Calendar Edinburgh in the Springtime Pursuits The Voyage Starts Here Discover Yourself The Great Outdoors Natigating the Spring Festivals 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 MAGAZINE FESTIVAL CALENDAR
festivals edinburgh
4 East Market St., Edinburgh, UK, EH8 8BG + (44) 0131 529 6763 www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk
contributors Sam Walters and Claudia Monteiro
one city. 12 festivals.
designed by nexus24 Creative marketing - www.nexus24.co.uk templated by Lumsdon Design - www.chrislumsdon.com
9-22 April 2011 Edinburgh Festival 2 International www.e d i nScience b u r g hfe s ti val s. co. u k Discover the first festival of its kind, a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that manages to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages and levels of expertise.
Discover yourself
Explore everything from the outer universe to the inner mind at the Edinburgh International Science Festival
contents
festivals magazine
Imaginate Festival
Spring is a time for the young, and the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival
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Edinburgh in the Spring Time 25 things to do in the Spring sunshine
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Planning for summer
Stress free summer planning
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Festival Calendar Stay up to date with all of Edinburgh’s 12 festivals
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festivals magazine
director’s letter
director’s letter Letter from Festivals Edinburgh Director Faith Liddell
S
pring is a time of growth, re-birth and
The Edinburgh International Science Festival delves
innovation, and nowhere is this more true
into the deepest questions of humanity- the creation
than among the gothic spires of Edinburgh.
of life, the nature of humankind, and the quest for knowledge. We invite you to explore our world, from
As snowy peaks and glistening streets give way to
the wonders of the deep to the jewels of the solar
crowds of daffodils in parks and pipers on street
system. Edinburgh is a springboard for re-birth of
corners herald in the warmer season, Edinburgh
inquiry and imagination, and everyone is invited.
springs back to life, awoken and ready to revive its quest for knowledge, understanding and inspiration.
Nowhere is the ability to demand, question and interrogate more important than in the leaders of
Edinburgh is known as the festival city, and it is
tomorrow, and it is to this need that the Bank of
not without reason- with 12 festivals adorning the
Scotland Imaginate Festival speaks. Known as the
streets, theatres, parks and event spaces across
world’s best theatre for children and young people,
the year, there is always something to engage the
the festival encourages the youth to engage their
imagination. But in Spring Edinburgh throws open
imaginations and expand their understanding with
its doors to the spirit of adventure and discovery, to
theatre and stories from around the world.
new ideas and possibilities- to ringing out the old and ringing in the new. The Edinburgh International Science Festival and the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival celebrate all that is at the heart of the festival city. The spirit of excitement, the desire to know, the yearning to explore new worlds, new ideas and new possibilities. All of these are the raison d’etre for the Edinburgh Festivals, and they are breathlessly and exuberantly embraced in the Spring season.
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In Edinburgh there is something around every corner - from the magic of the real to the boundaries of the imagination, your perfect festival experience is just waiting to be discovered, and we wish you well on the journey. We hope that you will use this magazine to stimulate, inform and inspire yourselves, and that you will satisfy your hunger for knowledge and entertainment at one of our great festivals.
TWO WEEKS OF SENSATIONAL TWO WEEKS OF SCIENCE SENSATIONAL 9-22 April 2011 SCIENCE Online booking: www.sciencefestival.co.uk
Booking hotline: 0131 553 0322
festivals magazine
festival CalendaR
30 December 2 January 2011/2012 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
22-31 October 2011 Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2-4 September 2011 Edinburgh Mela
one city. 12 festivals. 9-22 April 2011 Edinburgh International Science Festival discover the first festival of its kind, a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that manages to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages. http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-science-festival see website >>
9-15 May 2011 Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival enjoy a colourful programme of theatre, dance and puppetry specifically aimed at children, which gives the younger generations a chance to experience edinburgh’s cultural wonders on their own terms.
December
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/imaginate-festival see website >>
15-26 June 2011 Edinburgh International Film Festival see the latest in cutting-edge filmmaking with a full 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. http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-film-festival
see website >>
22-31 July 2011 Edinburgh Jazz and Blues 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. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/art 4 August - 4 September 2011 Edinburgh Art Festival
5-27 August 2011 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 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. 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. the fringe turns edinburgh into one giant auditorium which is the only place worth being in august. http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/fringe see website >>
12 August - 4 September 2011 Edinburgh International Festival
appreciate a fine selection of works from some of the greatest artists of the past and present alike. edinburgh’s galleries combine their efforts to create a network of inspiring exhibits that span the entire city.
marvel at this pinnacle of world culture, in which dance, theatre and music are all elevated to astonishingly high standards. 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.
see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/jazz-and-blues-festival
see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/book
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12 August - 4 September 2011 Edinburgh International Festival
5-27 August 2011 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
4 August - 4 September 2011 Edinburgh Art Festival
5-29 August 2011 Edinburgh Festival Fringe
September
9-22 April 2011 Edinburgh International Science Festival
9-15 May 2011 Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival
22-31 July 2011 Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
July
15-26 June 2011 Edinburgh International Film Festival
13-29 August 2011 Edinburgh International Book Festival
13-29 August 2011 Edinburgh International Book Festival Wander round the literary encampment or enjoy talks from a distinguished company of nobel Prize winners and emerging talents. the festival 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/international see website >>
2-4 September 2011 Edinburgh Mela Celebrate edinburgh’s cultural diversity across one glorious outdoor weekend, as local 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
22-31 October 2011 Scottish International Storytelling 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. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling 30 December - 2 January 2011/2012 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Welcome in the new Year in a true scottish style at the best street party on the planet. Princes street is the venue for this unique event, which is only one of the high points of a four-day festival of celebration. see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/hogmanay
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SUNDAY
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9 15 2011 to
MAY
the voyage starts here...
0131 228 1404
Tickets: Online: www.traverse.co.uk Imaginate is a company limited by guarantee. Company No. SC115855 Charity No. SC016437 design: map.ref.ltd. [0141.429.7956]
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edinbuRgh in the sPRingtime
festivals magazine
edinburgh in the springtime See the best of the springtime in Edinburgh with 20 activities to help you soak up the season.
s
pring is here to make the historical city of Edinburgh seem new again. spring is a time for rebirth and growth, youthfulness and energy, and a celebration of life. edinburgh offers the opportunity to get the best of the spring on one of the most picturesque cities on the planet. Here is our list of the top 20 things to do in Edinburgh in the spring:
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Captivate your children with some magical theatre at the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival.
Chill out in the middle of the meadows with a refreshing drink from one of the nearby cafes. Climb an ancient volcanic plug and look out on the whole of Edinburgh from the summit of Arthur’s Seat.
Complement the spring sunshine with good food and a blanket and have a picnic in Princes street gardens. Experience some big bangs at the Edinburgh International Science Festival with Pretty Pretty Bang Bang: The Science of Fireworks don’t believe your eyes when you see the optical illusions in edinburgh’s Camera obscura. Enjoy some of the best weather Edinburgh receives, with the spring months seeing the lowest average rainfall of the year.
sup a pint of locally brewed ale in the pleasant atmosphere of the Cumberland bar beer garden. Explore the mysteries of the marine world at the Into the Deep photo exhibition in St Andrews Square.
fill up with a piping-hot jacket tattie from the famous baked Potato shop on Coburn street. Go on a boat trip and see the astonishing wildlife of the Forth Islands with the Scottish Seabird Centre.
have a day at the seaside at Portobello beach. Hunt for clues with the family in a Springtime Scramble at the National Museum of Scotland.
live the excitement of the last day of the scottish football season at easter Road or tynecastle. look into Scotland’s past at the city’s most visible landmark, Edinburgh Castle.
sample the seasonal local produce of the farmers’ market at the foot of the Castle every saturday from 9am-2pm. Sit at a table on the pavement and watch the world go by on the Grassmarket.
take part in a nocturnal Celtic ritual at the beltane fire festival on Calton hill. venture up Calton Hill again by day and appreciate the faux-Grecian architecture in tranquil green surroundings.
Watch the most remarkable plants in the world come to life at the Royal botanic garden.
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pursuits
Olympic Games 27 July -12 Aug 2012 Paralympic Games 29 Aug - 9 Sept 2012 Edinburgh Festivals 28 July - 5th September 2012 see website >> http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk
Olympic Summer Next year will be an exciting time for culture in Britain For one unforgettable summer, the UK will see the cream of the world’s athletic and creative talent flock to its shores. To the south, London will have the once in a lifetime honour of holding the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Jamaican sprinters, American swimmers and Brazilian footballers will congregate and demonstrate their sporting skills at the highest possible level. The efforts of the greatest athletes in the world at London will provide a fitting frame for the work of the finest performers in the world at Edinburgh. The northern capital will make its annual contribution to the arts with a month-long exhibition of creative endeavour from countries as far afield as China, Australia and South Africa. Together, these three cultural wonders of the world represent a vast spectrum of international achievement. There is unlikely to be a more convenient opportunity to witness such an abundance of talent applied to such a variety of fields for years to come, so make sure to start planning for your 2012 soon!
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PURSUITS
festivals magazine
The Science of Cool In the 21st century there is no place for old stereotypes about science. Knowledge is power and this spring, the Edinburgh International Festival brings the coolest cutting edge science to the Spring city. From the science of cocktails to an adults only sleepover, catch our pick of the coolest events for 2011.
The Sleepover at Edinburgh Zoo combines nocturnal observation of the animal kingdom with dinner, drinks and a party that will undoubtedly put the Zoo’s cats to shame with its coolness. At Cheers! The Science of Wine and Cocktails, a panel of experts will demonstrate their advanced understanding of how to have a good time, through practical experimentation on the audience. Then, Mirror Mirror… The Science of Cosmetics examines the underlying importance of science to the glitzy world of fashion. Rounding off the whole Festival is The End of the World Ceilidh, which manages to effortlessly unite dancing, merriment, and astronomy under one roof. Looking at such a strong body of evidence, it’s hard to draw any conclusion except one: scientists know what it means to be cool.
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pursuits
Edinburgh International Film Festival 2011 The 15th - 26th of June sees the Film Festival celebrate its 65th anniversary 10
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PURSUITS
festivals magazine
all that heaven allows The world’s most innovative film festival has announced a raft of exciting changes to help them soar to greater heights.
The EIFF has always been renowned for
for their critically acclaimed work in the
anything, guaranteeing an interesting and
showcasing the finest creative talent in
fields of film and music. Those announced
varied programme. In keeping with this
the world- Manhattan, Blade Runner, Pulp
so far are directors Jim Jarmusch, Gus
free approach, the Festival will also be
Fiction and The Hurt Locker have all had
Van Sant and Apichatpong Weerasethakul,
expanding to an unprecedented number
premières here. But this year, the Edinburgh
actress Isabella Rossellini, composer Clint
of venues across the city, making use of
International Film Festival will take an
Mansell, rapper Mike Skinner [The Streets],
Edinburgh’s iconic architecture.
exciting step by letting the artists run the
and writers Griel Marcus and Alan Warner,
show. With a long history of being one of
with other illustrious names still to come.
The EIFF 2011 promises to be one of the most exciting iterations of the Festival- so
the world’s most cutting edge celebrations of film, the EIFF has continued to innovate
The curators will provide inspiration and
why not keep an eye on the website to keep
with a dazzling new format.
guidance to the Festival as it explores
up to date with the announcements and
the theme of ‘All That Heaven Allows’.
updates as they happen?
The content of the programme will be
This evocative yet indefinite phrase gives
curated by a panel of experts, each chosen
the curators a license to show almost
http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk see website >>
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PuRsuits
edfests mobile Have the ultimate guide to the festivals in the palm of your hand. ever been out and about, looking for something to do but unsure where to find it? that isn’t something you’ll have to worry about any more, because edinburghfestivals.co.uk is bringing its content to mobile platforms. if you’re planning to take part in one of the many brilliant festivals, you’ll probably want to spend most of your time at the heart of the activity. now you can access all of the details on all the events, wherever you are, whenever you feel like it. the site is filled with the latest news, guides, listings and more, giving you everything you could possibly need for an action-packed edinburgh experience. Just head to edinburghfestivals.mobi to get all of the information on the festivals right at your fingertips, and really make the most of your time here.
See more at edinburghfestivals.mobi >>
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PURSUITS
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get the best of the fest Edinburgh is a glittering jewel in the cultural calendar. As permanent home to the largest arts festival in the world, it can lay claim to being the unrivalled cultural capital. With the help of www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk and our partners, you can experience this for yourself, free of hassle. By the time Edinburgh’s inspiring programme
Best of all, every package contains an
of spring events comes to a close, it will almost
Edinburgh Festivals Passport. Since finding out
be time to begin the flurry of activity that marks
which of the many thousands of shows is right
the summer festivals. If you’re thinking of joining
for you can be a little daunting, we’ve asked a
in the celebrations this August, let us help you
Time Out critic to choose the must-see events
plan your visit. We’ve teamed up with a host of
from across the Fringe, Book, Art, Jazz & Blues,
travel companies from around the world to offer
Mela and International Festivals. The Passport
a selection of packages tailored to your needs.
is your ticket to three top-drawer events in one
These are designed to give you the holiday of a
day, and a guarantee of an experience you’ll
lifetime with a minimum of fuss, and include top
never forget.
accommodation, exclusive discounts and insider advice about the city.
browse the website >>
http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/summer-festivals-packages-edinburgh-2011
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asia meets europe in edinburgh Take a fascinating voyage of discovery this August, as the Edinburgh International Festival explores the vibrant and diverse cultures of Asia and the long standing influences on the cultural landscape of the west. artists from China, india, indonesia, Japan, korea and vietnam join others from around the world in edinburgh for three weeks of international music, dance, theatre, opera and visual arts. spectacular festival offerings range from The Peony Pavilion, a beautiful fusion of western classical ballet and traditional Chinese dance, to tim supple’s One Thousand and One Nights, a pulsating adaptation of the famous arabic tales. east meets west in unique re-imaginings of classic shakespearean stories, from a one-man King lear to the shanghai Peking opera troupe’s breathtaking version of Hamlet. or hear the world’s finest orchestras, ensembles and soloists perform programmes of traditional asian music and western classical repertoire. tickets for events go on sale on 2 april at 10am, while the festival itself runs from 12 august to 4 september. www.aif.co.uk Find out more >>
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PURSUITS
drumbeat of the festivals Book your seat for the experience of a lifetime at the world famous Military Tattoo Tickets are on sale now for the 62nd Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The legendary spectacle of military skill and discipline will give 24 performances between 5-27 August. The Tattoo is known for its innovative showcasing of talent from across the world, and 2011 will be no different. The unique skills of the Netherlands’ Bicycle Band are certain to astonish and delight festivalgoers, as are the musical buffalo horns of the South African Navy Band. The stirring Tattoo stalwarts of the Massed Pipes & Drums and the Lone Piper will also take centre stage for their customary appearance. Audiences at this summer’s performance will also have the pleasure of being the first to experience the brand new £16 million grandstand. The stand will include more room per seat and enhanced facilities. With an impressive group of performers assembled and a state of the art arena to accommodate them, the 2011 Tattoo promises to be yet another triumph. The event regularly sells out its whole allocation in advance, so book your seat soon to make sure you don’t miss out.
Click here to buy tickets >> http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/tickets
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TREAT YOUR IMAGINATION
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the voyage starts here Spring is a time for the young, and the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival is the perfect way to mark this. From the 9th to the 15th of May, Edinburgh will be home to this unique celebration of children’s theatre, with an international variety of talented actors, puppeteers and other entertainers on hand to delight young audiences.
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The Voyage Starts Here
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The Voyage Starts Here
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Good theatre has the ability to enhance children’s lives. It is superb entertainment, able to enthral people of all ages through the creation of a colourful and enjoyable spectacle. However, the true power of theatre is in its ability to unlock the imagination. Theatre is the perfect vehicle to introduce children to some of the greatest storytellers of our age this year’s programme includes shows based on stories by Philip Pullman and Michael Ende. The Imaginate festival recognises the power of the art, and brings some of its finest exponents together. Skilled performers from around the world to join with the impressive local core of performers to bring the festival to life. Guests this May hail from a wide range of countries, including Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Canada. This exposure to a variety of cultures and stories can help expand the horizons of youngsters. The internationalism of the festival enhances the community of like-minded individuals it brings together. The programme is full of exciting shows that children of all ages are sure to love. There’s Potato Needs a Bath, a musical puppet show featuring a variety of vegetables, aimed at 3-5 year olds. For fans of the classics, the 40th anniversary of Mr Benn sees this show staged in style by the Tall Stories theatre company. Imaginate isn’t just for children though - the festival also places great importance on the family. All shows encourage family attendances, while some are catered to suit mixed audiences. Opportunities include Is This a Dagger? The Story of Macbeth, which takes a close look at that famous Scottish king and creates an intriguing blend of fact and fiction. There is also The Golden Goose, a German fairytale told around a table where the audience sits alongside the actors.
Imaginate 2011 promises to be an exciting and fulfilling extravaganza, which offers something genuinely worthwhile to young audiences. Such a passionate celebration of children’s theatre is an uncommon find, which makes the festival a great treasure for Edinburgh and a fine reason to bring the family to the city this spring.
Tickets are on sale NOW at the Traverse Theatre Box Office: 0131 228 1404 or online at www.traverse.co.uk >>
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discover yourself
discover yourself The Edinburgh International Science Festival has a packed programme ranging from the depths of the oceans to the beauty of the atom, signs of psychopathy to the science of dog training. Discover science, and yourself, this festival season.
W
ith around 220 shows spread across 38 venues,
In recognition of 2011’s status as the International Year of
the Edinburgh International Science Festival has
Chemistry, the family-friendly interactive exhibit Atomise has been
something to offer to everyone. The programme unites
commissioned at the Royal Botanic Garden. It’s a hands-on affair,
a varied crowd of academics, television personalities, comedians
full of all kinds of unusual substances and reactions, that is sure
and others through their shared interest in science and learning.
to captivate children and maybe even the odd adult. Appearing
The range of topics is no less varied, with the inner workings of the
at the Usher Hall is Dr Bunhead in Pyromania, a hilarious show
Large Hadron Collider, the world of Doctor Who, the formation
which features the unhinged scientist from TV’s Brainiac in a series
of scabs and the future of mankind on earth all under discussion.
of chemistry-related escapades.
Age and expertise are no barriers to enjoyment and learning. The City Art Centre has seven whole floors devoted to child-
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Kids
friendly activities, all of which can be accessed with a single
Spring is the time for youth to flourish and grow, and the Science
Day Pass. Events include Dig up a Dinosaur, where budding
Festival offers numerous opportunities for children to do just that,
palaeontologists can go on their own fossil hunt, a challenging
sowing the seeds of knowledge in fertile young minds.*
Manic Monster Hunt for potential spies and detectives and a
discover yourself
Jungle Safari full of animal noises. Elsewhere, Edinburgh Zoo
the many challenges apparent in humanity’s future, as well as
hosts an interactive DNA Workshop, which teaches young
examine potential solutions, in a series of thoughtful discussions
geneticists about animal forensics, while the Scottish Storytelling
aimed at a mature audience. Too Many People! Confronting
Centre marks its first year as part of the festival with a showcase
the Population Dilemma sees a panel of experts including Carl
of children’s science books. These are just a handful of the
Djerasi - winner of this year’s Edinburgh Medal - address hard
stimulating events available that cover almost any area of interest.
questions on the implications of Earth’s current rate of population
*Many events are eligible for the Festival’s Early Bird special offers
negative effects of some applications of scientific innovation
on bookings made before 2 April, so be sure to check them out soon!
in Bad Ideas: An Arresting History of Our Inventions, and
Adults
planet, Fire in the Sky: Cosmic Threats to Earth is a discussion
Science has a unique capacity to inform and improve our lives
between Astronomer Royal Lord Rees and others about the
and our future, but such progress does not happen automatically.
dangers we may face from extra-terrestrial sources.
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growth. Elsewhere, Professor Lord Robert Winston explains the
suggests how these might be overcome. Looking beyond the
The Science Festival asks eminent scientists and thinkers to identify
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disCoveR YouRself
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disCoveR YouRself
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these are undeniably sobering topics, but there are also some more light-hearted perspectives on offer. Incoming! Or, Why We Should Stop Worrying and learn to love the Meteorite looks to rehabilitate the errant rocks’ reputation as bringers of apocalyptic catastrophe by suggesting that previous strikes may actually have caused life on earth to flourish and diversify. Zombie Science: A Spoof lecture on the undead takes an unflinching look at the science behind nature’s most horrifying phenomenon, and provides practical advice on overcoming the ravenous hordes. a running theme this year is that of the world beneath the waves. its centrepiece is Into the Deep, a huge exhibition of photographs in st andrews that charts a voyage to the bottom of the ocean. elsewhere, the filmhouse will be showing a selection of marine-themed movies, while several scientists offer talks on the secrets of the depths. some of the country’s most popular scientific television personalities and shows will be in edinburgh for the festival including perennial favourite Bang Goes the Theory who return with their roadshow this spring. the science festival manages to walk the difficult path between entertainment and education with ease. it does both simultaneously, for a wide range of very different people. Join in this april for a fortnight of learning that’ll put a smile on your face.
Tickets are on sale NOW at www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk >>
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the great outdoors
the great outdoors Take advantage of the Spring sun and head into Edinburgh to catch the best view of the scenic city.
Edinburgh’s cultural and architectural marvels are on display all year round, but there’s only one season when you can experience the capital in full bloom. Emerging from winter, the city in spring is a beautiful sight, with no shortage of outdoor space in which to enjoy the beautiful weather. Here are our picks for getting out and about:
Parks - Relax and Play
Gardens - Appreciate the Spring
Princes Street Gardens offers the perfect place for a family to
The Royal Botanic Garden is Edinburgh’s centre of both
take a break from the City Art Centre’s seven floors of Science
scientific study and crafted beauty. In April you can catch the new
and is conveniently located right at the heart of the city. It
Science Festival exhibit Atomise, but throughout the spring the
contains several statues and monuments and offers a striking
gardens will provide an ever-changing and exotic array of sights.
perspective on Edinburgh Castle. Just south of the old town next
Green-fingered types will particularly appreciate the
to the main university campus, you’ll find The Meadows, which is the largest expanse of grass in central Edinburgh. In the great spring weather it becomes a hub of social activity and recreation,
wealth of plant life on show, and can make good use of the week-by-week growth guides on the Garden’s website. Another http://www.rbge.org.uk/the-gardens/edinburgh/seasons-highlights excellent place to visit is the Redhall Walled Garden, which
providing the perfect opportunity to people watch or get involved
combines its obvious aesthetic qualities with a valuable social
in the action yourself.
role. Situated in the grounds of a stately home, it is full of unusual quirks, the most notable being an Iron Age roundhouse. The garden’s maintenance is handled by recovering victims of mental health problems, a process which provides a great deal of therapeutic assistance.
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the great outdoors
Walks - Revel in Nature
Wilds - Explore the Hills
The Water of Leith is ‘a silver thread in a ribbon of green’ that
Besides all this greenery, you’ll also find some of the dramatic
runs continuously through Edinburgh. It is home to many different
landscapes for which Scotland is famous. The volcanic crags
species of wildlife, including woodpeckers, kingfishers, otters and
of Holyrood Park which loom over the city centre offer several
deer. Join the walk at the picturesque Dean Village and follow
trails of varying intensity, with the climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat
the tranquil waterside walk to The Hermitage of Braid, a local
certainly the most invigorating. If you make it though, you will be
beauty spot somewhat off the beaten track. So why not pack a
rewarded with the best view of Edinburgh around. Visible to the
picnic and enjoy the tranquillity of the water just minutes from the
south of Edinburgh is the Pentlands Hills Regional Park, which
bustle of the city?
provides a slice of genuine countryside for the adventurously
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minded. With over 100km of paths amidst startlingly beautiful scenery to follow, there’s plenty to explore. Edinburgh is a city for all tastes, giving you something to do no matter what kind of activity you fancy. Spring really is the best time to experience the beautiful environments that anchor the capital’s cultural greatness, and a chance to see the Festival City truly come to life.
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festivals magazine
NAVIGATING THE SPRING FESTIVALS
navigating the spring festivals With such a large assortment of events to take in over the spring, it’s important to make sure you’re ready to handle it all. Research and organisation are the keys to maximising enjoyment of your time in Edinburgh, but with our help these tasks will be easy. Websites
Brochures
Tickets
Our website makes it easy to centralise everything you need to
Hard copies of the festival programmes will be distributed across
Once you’ve decided what you want to go to, you need to know
plan a visit. You’ll find universal listings across the festivals, along
the city, particularly in public buildings such as museums and
how to book your place there. Tickets to Imaginate shows can be
with online tools such as the MyVisit Itinerary to help you sort
libraries. For these and other brochures, as well as personal
booked through the Traverse Theatre Box Office. These can then
them into daily activities. There are also guides and tips on what
advice, it’s a good idea to pop into the central Edinburgh and
be posted to your home, although it will take 4-5 working days
to do in Edinburgh while you’re here, as well as all the latest
Scotland Information Centre.
within the United Kingdom and possibly longer if sent to an address
festival-related news.
outside the UK. Alternatively, you can collect your tickets from the
www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk see our website >>
Edinburgh and Scotland Information Centre
Traverse Theatre in person at any time up until the beginning of
3 Princes Street,
your chosen show:
Edinburgh, EH2 2QP You’ll also find detailed information on the official sites of the
www.sciencefestival.co.uk browse the science
festival website >>
www.imaginate.org.uk/FESTIVAL/ visit imaginate festival website >>
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0845 22 55 121
In person Traverse Theatre
individual festivals.
www.e di n b u r g hfe s ti val s. co. u k
10 Cambridge Street By phone 0131 228 1404
NAVIGATING THE SPRING FESTIVALS
festivals magazine
There’s no need to worry about physical tickets at the Science Festival, since it makes a point of being a ticket-free organisation. Pre-bookings can be made online, by phone or in person, and you will be sent a confirmation by email. For many events you can also pay for entry on the door. In person Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop 180 High Street By phone 0131 553 0322 http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/results buy tickets for the science fesitval http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/results http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/results buy tickets for imaginate festival
>>
>>
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festivals magazine
FESTIVAL MOMENTS
festival moments
The Hypnotic Brass Ensemble in a jazzy mood.
Outdoor amazement at the Botanic Gardens.
FESTIVAL MOMENTS
festivals magazine
Tall tales to keep everyone amused at the Storytelling Centre.
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Soak up the sunshine at the Leith Links.
Be enchanted with the world around you at St Andrews Square.
Spectacular scenes unfold over Edinburgh Castle.
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www.e di n b u r g hfe s ti val s. co. u k
Highland dancers in spectacular form.
Relaxing in the comfort of Charlotte Square Gardens
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