SF Edinburgh issue 3

YOUR FREE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

EDINBURGH SPRING 2016 | #3

What’s On? The Edinburgh International Science Festival headlines the capital’s schedule of spring events

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WELCOME TO SF EDINBURGH

Editor’s letter

A

s I write this, the Six Nations is already dominating this fi ne city. Despite the high hopes of a nation, the opening weekend saw England come and conquer, which means that we now only have the Sunday game against France in mid-March to look forward to. No matter, the match was sold out within days of tickets becoming available and the city’s bars and restaurants will no doubt be standing room only for the visit of Les Bleus.

In this issue, we’ve taken the opportunity afforded by the focus on rugby to take a closer look at the area which gives the national rugby stadium its name. There is, as Kirsty Smyth found out (see pages 16-27), far more to Murrayfield than meets the eye.

There is, as we found out, far more to Murrayfield than meets the eye If this is a time of year when we begin to leave the dark days of winter behind us and the city comes alive with spring colours, it’s also a time when the pace of cultural activities and shows picks up markedly. As well as extravaganzas such as the National Theatre’s James Plays, there are also a number of old favourites to revel in. One of mine is the two-week Edinburgh Science Festival at Dynamic Earth, which starts at the end of next month, and which we profi le on pages 78-79, and which is perfect for nerds, non-nerds and families alike.

THE EDITOR, SF EDINBURGH, FETTES PARK, 496 FERRY ROAD, EDINBURGH EH5 2DL PHONE 0131 551 1000 EMAIL EDITOR@SFEDINBURGH. CO.UK WWW. SFEDINBURGH.CO.UK

RICHARD BATH

SFEDINBURGH

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Contents ISSUE #3 Spring 2016

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

.15

.37

Bang & Olufsen’s BeoPlay A9 lets you play music wherever you go

Landscaper Paul Church gives a small space a contemporary spin

I want one of those

.26

A day in the life of...

My city garden

.42

Hidden Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Sketcher Mark Kirkham

Escape the city crowds at Dunbar’s Close Gardens in the New Town

.28

.44

Theatre of Dreams Six new restaurants under the spotlight

.32

.47

Six of the capital’s best seafood restaurants

.34

.48

The Bow Bar is a capital favourite

.38 Transforming a dated New Town flat into a warm and stylish space

Street style

Fashions may change but styles are unique – so where did they get that look...?

Iconic boozer

There is more to Murrayfield than the rugby stadium

Hats off

Let milliner Sally-Ann Provan turn your head

Seafood & eat it

.16 Roaring trade

.08

High Fliers

Spring clean

A Portobello warehouse is home to the city’s thriving circus scene

Update your wardrobe with fresh looks for the new season from Brora SF EDINBURGH

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Contents .58

.63

Underwater safari

What’s On

Swimming with sharks is something you will never forget

Make the most of all Edinburgh has to offer this Spring with our 30-page guide

.60

Property

The movers and shakers in the city property market

.93

City social

Out and about at the hottest social events

.98

My Edinburgh

Best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith

EDITOR: Richard Bath CREATIVE EDITOR: Heddy Forrest SENIOR CREATIVE DESIGNER: Mark Duncan PHOTOGRAPHER: Angus Blackburn STAFF WRITERS: Kirsty Smyth, Morag Bootland, Lynn O’Rourke SALES DIRECTOR: Brian Cameron SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER & SALES: Janice Johnston SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT: Mikaela MacKinnon Published by Wyvex Media Ltd. While SF Edinburgh is prepared to consider unsolicited articles, transparencies and artwork, it only accepts such material on the strict understanding that it incurs no liability for its safe custody or return. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of Wyvex Media Ltd.

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CIRCUS SCHOOL

High fliers An ordinary-looking warehouse in Portobello is home to the city’s thriving circus scene WORDS BY KIRS T Y S MY T H

Voice Box Theatre’s Selkie Tales photographed by Enrique Buceta

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HIGH FLIERS

A

n illuminated blue and orange circular sign fi xed above the door of an unremarkable warehouse unit at the Baileyfield Road Industrial Estate in Portobello is the only external clue as to the unusual nature of what goes on within. Beneath the bold lettering which spells out ‘Full Cirqle’, the entrance corridor leads to a comfy area where a group of young men and women are lounging on sofas, drinking tea and chatting. A carpeted hall through a door to the right reveals the first sign that this isn’t a regular business base. A metal staircase at the

far side rises to a mezzanine level, while a floor-to-ceiling mirror on the opposite wall reflects a pile of discarded juggling batons in the middle of the room. Hula hoops and strands of bright fabric are stashed in a corner behind a bearded man whose eyes are trained on a stacked, skyward-reaching tower of colourful plastic objects balancing on his outstretched palm.

Another door leads to a large barn where mats line the floor, straps and hammocks hang from the industrial ceiling, and an otherwise regular looking girl wearing skinny jeans and a sweatshirt, feet clad in neat little boots

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CIRCUS SCHOOL

complete with a hoof-style split at the big toe, is perched atop a 20ft pole. As I watch she wraps her legs around it, lets go of the vertical rod and flips upside down, arms stretching out to the side, before giving herself up to gravity and plummeting headfirst towards the ground with stomach-lurching speed, a barely perceptible

squeeze of the knees stopping her mere inches from the ground, dark ponytail brushing the mat before she flips off the pole and stretches out gracefully on the floor.

‘Good job!’ says teacher Hana Chwialkowska, high five-ing her student as she places an upturned hat at the foot of the pole for the next person to drop into before attempting to jump up from the vertical descent donning the jaunty bowler.

It’s a Tuesday evening and Chwialkowska, a London circus school graduate, is leading five students in her weekly Chinese Poles class, where performers learn to climb, slide down and hold poses on the apparatus.

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‘Chinese Poles is my speciality,’ she tells me. ‘I also take aerial and I am a contortionist so I teach flexibility, but the Chinese Poles is my favourite because it is the hardest discipline and it wasn’t allowed for woman until about 10 years ago.’ The rule made Chwialkowska determined to master the discipline at the first opportunity. ‘My students have a big passion for Chinese Pole too,’ she insists, ‘it is a pleasure to watch them progress.’

Training in contemporary circus skills has been taking place in the Full Cirqle unit at 8 Baileyfield Crescent for almost a year, after crowd funding helped secure the premises for use as a dedicated circus and performance arts centre last spring.

‘There’s a really exciting circus scene in Edinburgh,’ explains Julie Laerkholm of Celtic fire theatre collective PyroCeltica, one of a quartet of volunteers who signed the lease for the warehouse last spring. ‘I think it’s partly due to the Fringe and what goes on here in August. That’s a big street festival and contemporary circus is a street performance type thing.’

With backgrounds in show, festival, venue and event management, between

She plummets towards the ground with stomachlurching speed

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HIGH FLIERS

them the core team have produced some of the biggest circus projects in Scotland including The Commonwealth Youth Circus, touring shows JAMP and 9-2-5, and The Portobello Arts Factory, as well as teaching, performing and producing circus projects across the UK. ‘A few of us were rehearsing in another space, just across the road, but we lost the use of that and decided to look for somewhere together,’ Julie

explains. ‘When this place came up we didn’t have time to apply for funding from other sources, so we decided to run a two-week crowd funder. People really got behind it and it meant we had the resources to move in quickly. It was hard work, I don’t think I slept during April and May! But there’s a really good circus community in Edinburgh and lots of people helped out.’

Nine months on from the mad-dash move, Full Cirqle is thriving. Operating as a community interest company, with any profits put back into improving the centre and supporting circus arts in Edinburgh, the volunteer-run space is going from strength

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to strength. A dedicated home of classes, training, creation and play across the varied arts that make up contemporary circus, taught skills on offer range from Parkour, which uses movement developed from military obstacle course training, to aerial skills, clown work and juggling.

‘We’re delighted with how it’s evolved,’ Julie says.

‘It’s really impressive to see what’s been created from essentially nothing. I think it was a showroom for an insurance company before – now it’s a really vibrant place with a community feel, and space where you can have a cup of tea and chat together about the training that you have just done, which is really valuable.’

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CIRCUS SCHOOL

Around 10 big groups use the space, with lots of individuals regularly practising at the unit too.

‘There’s a whole range of people from professional circus artists to complete beginners,’ Julie says. ‘People find it so useful to have a place like this to practise. Many of the circus arts can be a bit scary at first but it’s just about managing the risks associated with it, so we practice a lot. You don’t just throw yourself on a trapeze for example, you practice many times first, lying on a mat and with a partner holding you. It’s very much about body control rather than being an adrenaline junkie.’

The volunteer team behind Full Cirqle are hoping their Portobello base will become the main centre for circus arts in the country. ‘We love making circus in Scotland and want Full Cirqle to connect to our circus family all across the world,’ Julie adds.

PORTOBELLO LOVES CIRCUS

Above: Julie Laerkholm, Rebecca McFarlane and Daniel Baranski take a Chinese Pole lesson at Full Cirqle.

Below: PyroCeltica.

Full Cirqle & Friends are set to present an exciting evening of fun-filled performances, featuring acrobats, jugglers, aerialists and more.

WHEN Saturday, 5 March 2016 from 18:30-20:30 WHERE Full Cirqle, 8 Baileyfield Crescent, Edinburgh, EH15 GB TICKETS To see for yourself the eclectic mix of talents practised at the centre, book your ticket at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/portobelloloves-circus-tickets-21300523439

© Clare Anderson

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INSIDE EDINBURGH

Roaring trade The renowned rugby stadium might enjoy centre stage in Murrayfield, but the civilised Edinburgh suburb has plenty of lesser-known sights worth shouting about too.

W O RDS BY KI RS T Y S MYTH I L LUS T RAT I O N BY AL ISON HOGG

Edinburgh trams stop in the shodow of the iconic Murrayfield Stadium.

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MURRAYFIELD

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INSIDE EDINBURGH

I

t may be a small, civilised suburb of Edinburgh, but Murrayfield is famed the world over for its own special brand of animalistic roar; a potent combination of pride, passion, dogged determination and the rarely dampened dreams of sports fans brought together in a unique outpouring of decibels which manages to be both uplifting and intimidating, depending on its direction.

Because for many, whilst it’s predominantly a residential area, this western hub is known as the home of Scottish rugby rather than a suburb of Scotland’s capital, with the sporting ground dominating the area in both structure and in the wider conscience.

The legendary Murrayfield Stadium has been home to Scotland’s premier rugby for nearly a century. The SFU

Clockwise from top: The popular Murrayfield Hotel; Jenners Depository is now used as a modern storage unit; Murrayfield Stadium was officially opened in 1925; this western hub of the city is known as the home of Scottish rugby.

A potent combination of pride, passion, dogged determination and rarely dampened dreams (predecessor of the SRU) had become the first of the Home Unions to own its own rugby ground – complete with stand, reporter’s box and telephone office – after purchasing land at Inverleith in 1897. But the ground fell into disrepair during the First World War and by 1919 this, coupled with the increasing popularity of rugby 18 |

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MURRAYFIELD

Big moments in Murrayfield’s history In 1682, the area we now know as Murrayfield was called Nisbet’s Parks after the owner, The Nisbet of Dean.

He sold it to Archibald Murray in 1733, who renamed the estate.

The Campbells of Succoth became owners of Murrayfield estate in 1866. Their seat at the time was in Garscube, Dunbartonshire, giving rise to Garscube Terrace. Campbell Avenue was developed in 1906 with Lennel, Cumlodden and Crarae Avenues, named after the family’s other Scottish properties, built around 1930.

Extensive building on the estate took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s, but much of present-day Murrayfield is outwith the original estate.

Roseburn Park, originally a swamp by the Water of Leith, was made into a park by Edinburgh council in 1891.

Edinburgh Polo Club moved there shortly after, stabling ponies at Russell Road.

Boxer Tom Imrie won the lightmiddleweight Gold medal for Scotland at Murrayfield in the 1970 Commonwealth Games.

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Shutterstock.com/ATG images

Image: the Scottish Rugby Union Memorial was erected in memory of the Scottish Rugby Union players who fell in both world wars.

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international matches, was giving the SFU cause for concern. They were on the search for a new ground.

When the opportunity to buy 19 acres of land at Murrayfield from the Edinburgh Polo Club came up, the SFU snapped it up and Scotland played their last match at Inverleith on 25 January 1925, signing off with a 25-4 victory over France. Murrayfield was officially opened to much pomp and ceremony two months later, just in time for the climax of the 1925 international season. Amid glorious sunshine and Five Nations – as it was before Italy joined and it became the Six Nations – Fever, 70,000 spectators packed into the new ground to watch Scotland take on holders England in a riveting match during which the lead changed several times. Having already recorded victories over France, Wales and Ireland, Scotland eventually secured a 14-11 victory and their first ever Grand Slam.

During the Second World War, the ground was used as a supply depot by the Royal Army Service Corps, but

70,000 packed into the ground to see Scotland take on holders England from 1939 the Forces’ sports authorities managed to stage two Scotland v England services matches each year on a home-and-away basis as an alternative to the Calcutta Cup. The Scottish Rugby Union Memorial, erected in memory of the Scottish Rugby Union players who SF EDINBURGH

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INSIDE EDINBURGH

fell in both world wars, stands proudly at the east side of the stadium.

From day one, the arena was going to have a lifelong effect on the hosting suburb, and to this day is responsible for the hundreds of thousands-strong annual footfall in the area, with major events drawing locals and visitors alike.

As well as being home to the Scottish Rugby Union, Murrayfield has played host to football and American football, rugby league and large-scale music concerts including the likes of Madonna, Oasis, James Brown and

Crowds of a thousand skaters packed the rink The Proclaimers. In 1982, the faithful from across the country flocked to Murrayfield to welcome Pope John Paul II, while in August 1987 stewards had to throw buckets of water over sweltering fans trying to keep cool at a U2 concert.

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Of course the stadium isn’t the only sports hub in the suburb. Murrayfield also boasts an ice rink, tennis club and golf course – the latter having donated part of its land to the stadium’s initial build in the early 1920s.

In 1938, Murrayfield Ice Rink was built. Due to open the following year, the launch was put on, ahem, ice due to the outbreak of war. Like the neighbouring stadium, the premises were requisitioned for storage by the Army and then used as an HM Stationery Office store until 1951.

Eventually, in August 1952, after a number of building alterations, the rink opened to the public as an ice arena with the official opening ceremony conducted by the then Lord Provost, Sir James Miller. The new venue, quoted in the press as being ‘the most modern ice rink in Scotland’, gave the people of Edinburgh their chance, not only to go skating on a regular basis – crowds of a thousand skaters packed the rink on Friday and Saturday

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MURRAYFIELD

nights – but also to witness fi rst hand a whole variety of events ranging from professional ice hockey and ice shows to amateur boxing and basketball.

In 1970, Edinburgh played host to Scotland’s first-ever Commonwealth Games, with Murrayfield chosen to stage the boxing. With hundreds of passionate Scots cheering him on, local boy, 23-year-old Tom Imrie, raised the roof when he won the lightmiddleweight Gold medal for Scotland, defeating Zambian Julius Luipa, making history in an exciting final in his home city. The closing ceremony for the 42 participating nations was also held at the rink, where sporting stars emerge to this day; skating siblings Sinead and John Kerr, born and raised in Edinburgh, learned to skate there and went on to win eighth place at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Canada.

It’s fair to say that sport has dominated Murrayfield for the last century, but there are other iconic landmarks in the area. The Jenners Depository Building

Clockwise from top: Murrayfield Ice Rink being built in 1938; a programme for the Murrayfield Royals ice hockey team from 1952; The Edinburgh Capitals are the current ice hockey team; graffiti mural in Roseburn Park.

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MURRAYFIELD

Fun facts Railway station – Murrayfield used to have its own railway station from 1879-1962. The ornate bridge crossing over the road to Haymarket shows where the railway ran – the station itself was just to the north of this and now forms part of the cycle network that runs all the way to Newhaven along the old lines.

Image: The traditional Roseburn Bar is a firm favourite on the route to Murrayfield Stadium.

Rail passengers gather belongings and put on their coats as soon as they see the red brick building on Balgreen Road is used as a reference point by rail passengers heading into the city who, as soon as they see the red-brick block, begin to gather up their belongings and put on their coats.

Constructed by renowned Scottish architect James Bow Dunn in 1925, the purpose-built storage space was located to complement the famous Jenners Department Store on Princes Street, with the layout designed to provide easy access for the horse-drawn carts that were used to transport stock to the city-centre store. In 2006, the building was bought by Edinburgh Self Storage when the Jenners Department Store was taken over by House of Fraser.

The Depository has since been transformed into a modern, selfstorage facility, but has thankfully retained its original features and characteristics.

Five minutes away, to the north east of the stadium, a bold mural provides a bright, modern focal point at Roseburn Park. Representing the hard work of local youngsters who, with the help of professional graffiti artists, spraypainted the Armoury Wall in 2011, the bright artwork has transformed an unsightly, frequently vandalised space into a colourful mural celebrating different facets of life in Roseburn Park.

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Full capacity – Murrayfield stadium, which has a capacity of 67,800, is the sixth-biggest stadium in the UK. Charity concert – In June 2005, a charity concert entitled Edinburgh 50,000 – The Final Push was staged at Murrayfield stadium to raise money for Live 8. Similar concerts were put on in ten other countries around the world.

Skating legacy – Edinburgh-born siblings Sinead and John Kerr learned to skate at Murrayfield and went on to win eighth place at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Canada and fifth in the World Championships Torino 2010.

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THE EDINBURGH SKETCHER

A day in the life of...

Illustrator Mark Kirkham, aka the Edinburgh Sketcher, creates a daily drawing of something that catches his eye WORDS BY MARK K I RK H AM

I

first started sketching Edinburgh scenes when I was working as a designer at The Scotsman. Walking up and down the Royal Mile every day, I was inspired by my surroundings. I started sketching bits of architecture and things I liked in my lunch hour. At the time everyone was doing a blog – I wasn’t very good at writing, so I uploaded doodles and it went from there. I’ve been doing it full time for two years now. I have young twins and it fits around looking after them. I do commission work, so mornings are taken up with meeting clients and taking photos to draw from. Then in the afternoons I’ll draw anything that catches my eye. I keep tabs on the council and social media to see what’s coming up so I can reflect what’s going on. Recently I went to the National

I started sketching in my lunch hour, bits of architecture and things I liked Museum’s Build It! Lego exhibition and did a sketch of my son with the Lego. I sketch in pencil and carry a small set of watercolours so I can put colour on then rather than take it away and fill it in later, I think you capture movement better when you’re painting what’s in front of you and not having to think too much into it later. It can be tricky in the rain, but I’m out in all weathers. I did a sketch of the Grassmarket last year when it was chucking down and there was a lot of talk on Twitter about how wet it was. The picture was rain-spattered and washed out, but I think that adds to the effect.

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RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Theatre of dreams

Can Dine at Stuart Muir make a success of its spot above the Traverse Theatre?

Reviews by Richard Bath & Morag Bootland

Byron Hamburgers 29-31 North Bridge This may be a big chain, but its fi rst Edinburgh branch has seating for 120 and occupies a stylish, bespoke, contemporary building on the corner of North Bridge and the Royal Mile. The food isn’t too shabby either: the burgers are excellent (we had the signature double bacon cheeseburger and the spicy chilli burger), I liked the courgette chips, there are craft beers and ‘hard shakes’ by the bucket, and the pudding was gorgeous. It’s not cheap though. RB 0131 556 3444 | www.byronhamburgers.com

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NEW RESTAURANTS

DINE Saltire Court, 10 (1F) Cambridge Street

It seems an age since this space above the Traverse Theatre was occupied by the upwardly mobile Atrium, the sleekest, hippest restaurant in the capital. But like all good things, after Castle Terrace opened close by, Atrium lost momentum and in 2011 owners Andrew and Lisa Radford decamped, eventually opening the nearby Timberyard to huge acclaim.

This prime space sat empty until its recent reinvigoration by Stuart Muir, the former executive chef of Harvey Nichols and The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews (the restaurant’s full name is ‘Dine With Stuart Muir’) in tandem with head chef James O’Brien. The result is an understated yet rather lovely upscale restaurant with bells and whistles such as a 30-cover Champagne bar, wonderful cocktail list, nice sharing platters in the afternoon, and live jazz with your Sunday lunch.

The main thrust of the venture, however, is fine dining aimed at the nearby financial businesses and theatre-goers, with a menu best described as contemporary Scottish at half the price of the nearby Michelin-starred Castle Terrace.

I particularly enjoyed the silky-smooth white onion and parmesan veloute, and the mix of scallops with a warm seafood cocktail and vanilla bisque. If my duck was a little overcooked, I warmed to the ambition, while fantastic puddings (rice pudding with whisky syrup and plum jam or sticky toffee pudding with stewed spiced apples, creme fraiche and salted caramel sauce) showed real verve. The service was excellent and the wine list good yet affordable. This is one that all genuine foodies should stick on their ‘to try’ list. RB 0131 218 1818 | www.dineedinburgh.co.uk

Rigatoni’s by the King’s 30-32 Leven Street After years running Neapolitan trattoria Rigatoni’s by the Queens (Hall), Stefano and Maria Molfino’s next step is a more sophisticated version by the King’s Theatre. Their new venture is more high-falutin’, but the best bet still remains the pizza and pasta.

Our meal was mixed – soggy bruschetta and bland veal in cream and mushrooms on one hand, beautifully piccante king prawns and perfectly cooked sea bass with seafood, white wine and cherries on the other. Good value wine and cheery service though. RB 0131 228 6694 | www.rigatoniskings.co.uk SF EDINBURGH

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RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Civerinos 5 Hunter Square, Royal Mile The pizza at this Italian street food restaurant is much lauded, but it turned out not to be the star. That plaudit went to the sumptuous arancini. Calamari came with aioli so deliciously garlicky that my personal space became very well respected. The gamberi e pesto pizza was tasty, if a little tight on topping. The pulled pork and apple offering didn’t go down so well. We came to the conclusion that apple has no business on pizza. The friendly service and informal atmostphere make Civerinos ideal for groups of friends. MB 0131 220 0851 | www.civerinos.com 30 |

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NEW RESTAURANTS

Kilted Lobster 112 St Stephen Street, Stockbridge

‘You’ve got to remember, we’re not an ordinary restaurant and shouldn’t be treated like one,’ said Colin Hinds, the culinary brains behind the Kilted Lobster. It turns out he’s referring to the Kilted Lobster’s generous side helping of social responsibility, which sees all profits donated to their ‘Cooking Up a Storm’ initiative. This aims to provide job training to school leavers or those facing barriers to work, free meals to those experiencing financial hardship, and cooking classes focusing on producing healthy meals on a budget and catering for food allergies.

All massively laudable, of course, but what about the food?

Stockbridge’s new seafood restaurant charges proper prices for its food (starters £4-£7, mains £14-£29.50), so it’s only fair to expect food of correspondingly high quality. The answer is that, like a disconcerting number of this issue’s new restaurants, the fare at the Kilted Lobster has a whiff of the curate’s egg to it. Some of the good things, such as the alba skink of Scottish seafood chowder, were very good indeed; others, such as the lamb shank with pomme puree and Jerusalem artichokes, were simply thoroughly competent; but there was also a black mark contingent, which included overcooked pigeon breasts with pumpkin and chorizo crumbles, and the puddings.

The Kilted Lobster, which is in a small site that has seen a succession of Chinese restaurants of distinctly variable quality come and go, is definitely worth a visit, if only because such community-mindedness should always be supported. Sunday lunch is particularly good value, with two courses for £11 and three for £14, with kids under 12 eating for free (one per adult).

Here’s hoping its success matches its ambition. RB 0131 220 6677 | www.kiltedlobster.com

ASK 9-13 Shandwick Place The first restaurant in this Italian chain in the capital has a prime position at the West End. Our waiter was everything we could have hoped for – friendly and doling out huge portions of parmesan. We sampled a range of pizza, pasta, risotto and pork belly; everything was tasty, hot and served with a smile. My only complaints would be a slight lack of seasoning here and there and a shortage of aubergine in the melanze al forno. This is a safe bet for a hearty feed in the city centre. MB 0131 229 3000 | www.askitalian.co.uk

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SIX OF THE BEST

Sea food & eat it Editor Richard Bath recommends six of Edinburgh’s best seafood restaurants

Loch Fyne Seafood & Grill I was wary about including this chain restaurant, but it is great for families or if you’re feeling poor, so on balance it deserves a mention. The surroundings are also noteworthy: it’s in a huge former harbourside warehouse that is flooded with light and has stunning views over the water. The menu is full of fishy staples – try the lobster bisque and seafood tagliatelle – and with a two/three-course set lunch at £11/12 and an evening set menu at £15/18 it’s remarkably good value.

25 Pier Place, Newhaven | 0131 559 3900 | www.lochfyne-restaurants.com

Ship on the Shore When at its best, this converted waterside pub in Leith is one of the great seafood venues.

Wood-lined and studded with nautical ephemera, it’s atmospheric and evocative.

Fresh seafood is delivered daily, meaning composite dishes such as the seafood platter or the hot shellfish platter are superb.

The wine and champagne list is outstanding, as are dishes such as razor clams thermidor and surf n turf. Take care, it’s pricey in places, and perhaps due to the Gallic influence the service can lack urgency and/or empathy.

C-Shack This tiny little gem in Newhaven only opened recently but has already established a huge reputation for some of the best – and cheapest – seafood in Edinburgh. Fish is sourced daily from their neighbours, the legendary fishmonger Welch, and the dishes are an eclectic delight: fish n chips or seafood spaghetti on one hand, or crab spring rolls, fish and seafood stew with chorizo, or mackerel and king prawn curry on the other. There are also great craft beers and a top wine list.

24-26 Shore, Leith | 0131 555 0409 www.theshipontheshore.co.uk

3 Pier Place, Newhaven | 0131 467 8628 | www.cshack.co.uk

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SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS

Fishers In The City One of two branches of this successful fish restaurant – the other is on The Shore in Leith – this is easy city centre dining for people who like fish. Situated in a light and airy converted warehouse just off George Street, this vibrant restaurant has an excellent and sensibly priced wine list and a nauticallythemed bar. The menu is also interesting, with exotic twists combining with locally-sourced seafood in dishes like red-wine poached turbot with salt cod biegnets, John Dory with Jerusalem artichoke barigoule and black winter truffles, mussel and coley hot & sour curry. It’s also good value.

2 George IV Bridge | 0131 226 1888 www.ondinerestaurant.co.uk

Ondine Owned by Rick Stein’s former righthand man Roy Brett, Ondine is the best seafood restaurant in Edinburgh, and probably in Scotland. Situated in the Old Town, just off the Royal Mile, this fine dining restaurant showcases the best of Scottish seafood, from Mull hand-dived scallops to Forth lobsters from Newhaven. The backbone of the operation is Brett, a chef who doesn’t over-elaborate and is determined to let the quality of the produce speak for itself.

Marvel at the seafood counter, and enjoy the quality of the food. It’s relaxed, professional and intimate, but be prepared because excellence comes at a price and at Ondine these are now at Michelin-star level.

58 Thistle St | 0131 225 5109 | www.fishersrestaurantgroup.co.uk

The Boat House This bustling South Queensferry restaurant off the cobbled high street has spectacular views across the Forth and to the bridges (as does neighbour the Samphire Seafood Bar at Orocco Pier). Both restaurant and bistro have a vast array of seafood dishes, ranging from the classics in the bistro to some more adventurous fare in the restaurant. In the summer the patio can be wonderful (this is where the loony dook takes place on New Years Day), and the prices are pretty sensible, especially in the bistro. The tables are quite close together and service has been an issue, but at its best it’s well worth trying.

22 High St, Sth Queensferry | 0131 331 5429 | www.theboathouse-sq.co.uk

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ICONIC BOOZER

Iconic boozer THE BOW BAR, 80 West Bow It may look like a classic old-school pub nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, but the Bow Bar actually opened in 1984. Traditional looks continue inside with a large mahogany bar and brass beer founts, making it a favourite with locals and visitors – plus lawyers from the nearby High Court.

Stocking 300 single malts, 50 bottled beers, eight cask conditioned ales and six keg beers, the phrase ‘spoilt for choice’ springs to mind. www.thebowbar.co.uk

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11/02/2016 15:32:22

THE BOW BAR

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09/02/2016 08:56:50

MY CITY GARDEN

My city garden Landscape designer Paul Church used symmetry and curves to give this small, narrow garden in Meadowbank formality and a contemporary feel. ‘The garden was long and thin so the shape and curves of the beds help to widen the space and make it user friendly,’ Paul explains.

Smooth, rendered walls and panelled fencing complement the design while contrasting nicely with an enviable view of Arthur’s Seat beyond. www.paulchurchgardens.com

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INTERIORS

Changing rooms Swapping round the layout of a New Town flat has transformed an awkward space into one that is open and welcoming WORDS BY LY N N O ’RO URK E

Image: Nina Campbell’s Peony Place wallpaper creates a striking focal point in the living room.

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11/02/2016 15:38:55

CHANGING ROOMS

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INTERIORS

J

Clockwise from above: With the help of an interior designer, Jill Stevenson has transformed the look and feel of her home; two bedrooms were knocked into one space to create today’s spacious dining kitchen, which teams elegant pale grey units with a classic Belfast sink for a modern country look; the master bedroom features Threads Botanica wallpaper in Silver Birch to enhance the light, airy feel.

LIVING ROOM BEFORE

ill Stevenson had lived in her New Town flat for eight years before she took the plunge and hired an interior designer to help her transform it into the stylish, sociable space it is today.

Jill met designer Sally Homan of Robertson Lindsay Interiors through a mutual friend on a night out. ‘Chatting to Sally was the kick that I needed to get the work done,’ she says. ‘I knew it was such a big job that it made sense to tackle it in a oner and I felt a bit overwhelmed about doing all of that on my own.’

Although the flat was liveable, the decor was dated, and it needed to be rewired and replumbed. The biggest job was creating a kitchen diner, achieved by knocking two bedrooms into one.

The end result is a beautifully light space with each room flowing into the next. Jill found the design process a collaborative one. ‘Once we’d established we wanted to go down the route of greys, Sally would bring along different grey papers or fabrics. It was a joint process.’

Jill is most pleased with the kitchen diner, which features a Neptune Suffolk kitchen in honed slate, while the Ebbe Gehl Mira dining table and the Vitra Eames DSW chairs are from John Lewis.

‘It’s a much better use of the space,’ Jill says. Previously the kitchen was in what is now the guest room. ‘There wasn’t room for a table in there or in the living room, so if I had people round it meant they would be in the living room and I would be in the kitchen. This allows me to have friends over and cook at the same time. It’s a much more sociable flat now and has changed how I use it.’

Robertson Lindsay Interiors | Tel: 0131 629 1661 | sally@robertson-lindsay.com | www.robertson-lindsay.com

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CHANGING ROOMS

There wasn’t room for a table in there or in the living room, so if I had people round it meant they would be in the living room and I would be in the kitchen BEDROOM BEFORE

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HIDDEN EDINBURGH

Hidden Edinburgh PH O TO G R A PH ED BY PAU L DAVIDSON

If you’re looking for a few moments of peace and quiet in the heart of the city, grab a coffee on the Royal Mile and head to one of a series of little-known green retreats nestled behind the notable buildings in the heart of the Old Town. Just metres from the hustle and bustle of the city, hidden in nooks and crannies at the end of wynds off the historic high street, are a series of little gardens, providing the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Dunbar’s Close Gardens (pictured) close to Canongate Kirk is one of the largely undiscovered havens in the heart of the city.

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11/02/2016 15:41:09

DUNBAR’S CLOSE

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FASHION ICON

Colour and texture play major roles in milliner Sally-Ann Provan’s creations. For more information go to: www.sallyannprovan.co.uk

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WWW.SFEDINBURGH.CO.UK

11/02/2016 15:43:49

SALLY-ANN PROVAN

Hats off From ladies couture to society weddings and theatrical creations, milliner Sally-Ann Provan has got it covered WORDS BY LY N N O ’RO URK E

‘I

t’s all about making people feel good’, says Edinburgh-based milliner Sally-Ann Provan, who creates exquisite creations from jaunty saucers and elegant berets, to feather hats and Faye Dunawayesque brimmed numbers. The choice is

It’s about personal style and finding the right one for you enough to make your hatless head spin.

‘It’s just about finding the right one for you,’ Sally-Ann explains. ‘It’s all about proportion and personal style, making sure that things work. I usually have an idea of what I think is going to work, but I think of it as a discussion.

It’s making sure the client’s opinion is heard.’

Training in both couture and theatrical millinery mean that as well as making hats to be worn to Cheltenham Races, SallyAnn is also in demand with the likes of Scottish Opera’s costume department.

‘One minute I’m making a hat for a society wedding in London and the next I’m making 18th-century tricorns – it keeps me on my toes,’ she says. ‘Basically, if you can wear it on your head, I can make it.’

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Edinburgh’s FAMOUS fossil shop

Tel: 0131 220 1344 www.mrwoodsfossils.co.uk

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39-41 WILLIAM STREET EDINBURGH EH3 7LW

www.odysseyboutique.co.uk 0131 220 2908

WWW.SFEDINBURGH.CO.UK

09/02/2016 09:07:10

FASHION

Street style Fashions may change but styles are unique – so where did they get that look...?

PHOTOGRA PHED BY MO RW EN N A K EARS L EY

RACHAEL FROM EDINBURGH Hat: Marc Jacobs Coat: Samsoe & Samsoe Jeans: Paige Scarf: A.P.C Boots: Hush Bag: Anya Hindmarch

CHAN FROM CHINA Coat: Joules Scarf: Love Moschino Jumper: Maje Skirt: Urban Outfitters Boots: Steve Madden

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FASHION

Gingham Linen Shirt, £125; Gingham Linen Shorts, £98; Snakeskin Print Belt, £98.

Spring clean Ditch the old and update your wardrobe with Brora’s fresh, elegant and easy-to-wear new season looks.

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WWW.SFEDINBURGH.CO.UK

11/02/2016 15:47:24

BRORA

Cashmere Summer Poncho, £149; Snake Print Trousers, £119; Turquoise & Filigree Necklace, £79.

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FASHION

Cashmere Summer Poncho, £149; Snake Print Trousers, £119.

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11/02/2016 15:48:11

BRORA

Cashmere Starbust Jumper, £259; Silk Floral Pleated Skirt, £139.

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Silk Chiffon Floral Dress, ÂŁ235.

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BRORA

Polka Dot Cotton Top, £95; Gauzy Linen Skirt, £135; Peep Toe Wedge Espadrilles, £125.

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FASHION

Linen & Cotton Pointelle Jumper, £109; Wave Print Trousers, £119.

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11/02/2016 15:49:23

BRORA

Boyfriend Textured Cotton Shirt, £109; Snake Print Trousers, £119.

Brora, 48 Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 1EX – 0131 220 6404

www.brora.co.uk SF EDINBURGH

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Spring

spectacular #1

#2

#1 Soft red Scottish leather handbag, lined in red suede, £335 (large) or £295 (medium).

Tel: 01968 660078, www.dunmorescotland.com

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#2 Tom Ford unisex glasses, all styles from £199 including prescription lenses at Spectacles Direct, 16a Bonnington Road, Edinburgh.

Tel: 0131 553 9000, www.spectacles directedinburgh.co.uk

WWW.SFEDINBURGH.CO.UK

10/02/2016 08:31:11

SPRING SPECTACULAR

#3 Lingerie is an exciting world, particularly at Odyssey Boutique, where owner Sarah invites you to indulge in a private lingerie fitting and styling appointment. Enjoy a glass of Champagne as Sarah takes lingerie shopping to a new level.

Tel: 0131 220 2908, www.odysseyboutique.co.uk

#4 The stunning Anna Collection

by Laing Edinburgh is an exclusive in-house design inspired by an affectionate, loving and unique lady.

The perfect gift for day or night, the Anna pendant boasts a beautiful, brilliant diamond surrounded by a vivid halo of smaller diamonds on 18-carat rose gold. Priced ÂŁ1,450, and also available in platinum and gold. www.laingedinburgh.com

#5

#3

#4

#5 With stores on Broughton Street and Brougham Street, Real Foods has been selling natural, organic, vegetarian, vegan, free-from and Fairtrade foods in Edinburgh and worldwide for more than 40 years.

Tel: 0131 557 1911 www.realfoods.co.uk

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ACTIVITIES TO TRY

Underwater Safari Although Edinburgh is a coastal city, shark encounters may be the last thing on your mind when looking for something to keep young – or old – ones entertained. But coming face to face with 3 metre sand tiger sharks, angel sharks, stingrays and tope is a real possibility at Deep Sea World in Queensferry.

Head along to the centre for an underwater experience you will never forget, with thrilling shark dives on offer for both qualified and non-qualified divers all year round. www.deepseaworld.com/shark-dives

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11/02/2016 15:51:56

SHARK FEEDING

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PROPERTY NEWS

Home report We reveal the most expensive city suburbs as well as the popularity of Edinburgh’s New Town

26.7%

Average selling prices for one-bedroom flats in Polwarth, Shandon and Tollcross have rocketed by 27.6% annually, according to the latest analysis from ESPC. This could be attributed to the area becoming a popular place for first-time buyers as it is traditionally associated with students and young professionals, and it has become a popular area for buy-to-lets.

£343,000 The popularity of New Town and West End properties have seen the average price of a two-bedroom flat increase by 16.7% from £294,000 in October-December 2014, to £343,000 in the same period last year.

Other areas that have shown dramatic growth include South Queensferry and Dalmeny, where the average price of a three-bedroom house has increased by 20%, and Leith, the Shore and Granton, where a two-bedroom flat has increased in average price by 19.1%.

7.1% The average selling price in Edinburgh increased by 7.1% in October to December last year, compared with the same three-month period in 2014.

BLACKHALL DAVIDSON’S MAINS SILVERKNOWES Blackhall, Davidson’s Mains and Silverknowes remain among the most expensive suburbs of the city, with three bedroom properties there selling for an average of £336,939.

Source: ESPC. Information correct at time of going to press

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11/02/2016 15:54:08

Since The Scotsman was founded in 1815, it has been the undisputed chronicler of Scotland’s national game, both at home and abroad.

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09/02/2016 09:20:51

What’s

ON Whether it be music, theatre, film or exhibitions, make the most of all Edinburgh has to offer this Spring

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15-21 February GRAHAM RICH – SAILING WITH GHOSTS 5-27/2, The Fine Art Society Devon-based artist Graham Rich returns to The Fine Art Society in Edinburgh after eight years. An artist with a passion for boats since the age of 10, Rich uses marine paint on found wood and boat fragments that he gathers during his voyages along the coast of Devon and Cornwall. The sailing boat, as well as being the subject of his art, becomes a conceptual symbol, a metaphor for the existence. www.fasedinburgh.com

BALLET WEST: THE NUTCRACKER 20/2, EICC It is the Christmas party in the Stahlbaum household and the young Clara is given a beautiful Nutcracker doll. After everyone has gone to bed and the house is quiet, Clara returns to be with her Nutcracker doll and discovers that he can take her on magical adventures through the land of the Mouse King, dancing snowflakes and the wonderful land of sweets. The star roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince will be danced by Guest Principals, Sara-Maria Barton and Andreas Battaggia. www.eicc.co.uk

JANGO STARR: ONE MAN SHOE 17/2, The Brunton, Musselburgh When the headline act fails to show up, Jango, a bumbling theatre caretaker, is suddenly thrust into the limelight. He embarks on a hilarious journey of highly crafted and heartfelt silent comedy, as he magically finds his way to realise his dream of transforming into a star. www.thebrunton. co.uk

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11/02/2016 14:18:59

WHAT’S ON

GRETCHEN PETERS 21/2, Queen’s Hall Two-time Grammy nominee and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Gretchen Peters has been in near-constant motion, touring for the past three years. Gretchen is a songwriter and an artist. Both sides are essential to her identity, and one listen to this collection makes it clear that her extraordinary body of work is indeed essential listening for the rest of us. www.thequeenshall.net

18/2, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian A series of exclusive and inspiring ladies afternoons, SocieTEA is back for 2016. The first SocieTEA event of this year, ‘The Iron Lady to Loose Women’ is hosted in The Pompadour

by Galvin, the hotel fine dining restaurant managed by the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers, and will introduce Kaye Adams, one of the country’s most accomplished journalists. www. waldorfastoria edinburgh.com

JESS GLYNNE 17/2, Usher Hall British singer/songwriter Jess Glynne first came to attention in 2014 with top ten hit Right Here. In 2015, she became the second British artist to have five number one singles in the UK and her debut album I Cry When I Laugh went to number one on the UK Albums Chart. www.usherhall.co.uk

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL 16-20/2, Festival Theatre Gareth Gates stars as Willard in a new production of the hit Broadway musical. footloose-musical.com

MUM’S THE WORD 2: FROM TODDLERS TO TEENAGERS 18-20/2, King’s Theatre A brand-new version of the huge original hit show detailing the comedic horrors of rearing young children – now updated to include the horrors of rearing and living with teenagers! www.edtheatres.com

THE CEILIDH CLUB AT SUMMERHALL 16/2, Summerhall The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club bring you Edinburgh’s best regular ceilidhs every Tuesday night.

The bands have a caller who will teach the dances, so the event is great for everyone from complete beginners to experienced ceilidhers. www.edinburghceilidhclub.com

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Top picks David Ellis for Boom Ents

SOCIETEA LADIES AFTERNOON

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Top picks

JAMES MARTIN - PLATES, MATES & AUTOMOBILES 23/2, Usher Hall Join celebrated chef and TV personality James Martin for his first UK tour. Marking 20 years since James first graced our TV screens, winning the hearts of the nation, the show will be a fast-paced, interactive and high-tech extravaganza. James will entertain the crowds with his signature cooking demonstrations and will be joined by some very special guests. www.usherhall.co.uk

SOUTHERN LIGHT: THE WIZARD OF OZ 23-27/2, King’s Theatre Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Land of Oz, and join Dorothy and her little dog Toto, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion on their unforgettable adventure. www.edtheatres.com

SCOTTISH ENSEMBLE 23/2, The Brunton Musselburgh Playing Mozart and Brahms in the key of G, five Scottish Ensemble musicians take you from minor to major as we get intimate with these quintets. scottishensemble.co.uk

EDINBURGH ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIR 27-28/2, Royal Highland Centre Visit the largest Antiques & Collectors Fair of its kind in Scotland with up to 250 exhibitors offering good antiques of all descriptions as well as collectables, vintage and retro. www.royalhighlandcentre.co.uk

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11/02/2016 14:20:52

22-28 February RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC 28/2, Queen’s Hall A stunning re-creation of one of the most popular and longest-running bands in rock history. When Rumours of Fleetwood Mac hits the stage, Fleetwood Mac comes to life. Having performed more than 600 major concerts, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is endorsed by founder the original band member Mick Fleetwood. www.rumoursoffleetwoodmac.com

HAIRSPRAY: THE MUSICAL 22 - 27/2, Edinburgh Playhouse The story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and big dreams, hoping to dance herself onto national TV. Starring Tom Maudsley, Claire Sweeney and Peter Duncan, this all-star cast promises an irresistible feel-good show that is guaranteed to have you dancing the night away. www.playhousetheatre.com

SCOTTISH NATIONAL JAZZ ORCHESTRA MEET MIKE STERN 26/2, Queen’s Hall, Recognised as one of the finest artists among his peers, Mike Stern is an American six-time Grammy nominee jazz/electrical guitarist. He has worked with many personalities, such as Miles Davis, but has always stayed true to his own style. Joining SNJO once again, this ensemble will tear down walls and confound definitions of contemporary big band music. www.thequeenshall.net

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29 February-6 March PETER JAMES’ THE PERFECT MURDER 29/2-5/3, King’s Theatre Starring Eastenders’ Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace, The Perfect Murder tells the story of Victor, who killed his wife in order to get her out of his life. Trouble arises when Detective Grace gets involved in the case.

This highly entertaining dark comedy will give you the chills and leave you sitting on the edge of your chair. www.edtheatres.com/kings

JERSEY BOYS 1-5/3, Edinburgh Playhouse Jersey Boys is an internationally acclaimed hit musical based on the true story of one of the most successful bands in pop music history’s remarkable rise to stardom. This sensational production features many of the band’s worldwide hits, promising a night of foot-tapping and goose bumps. www.edinburghtheatreguide.com

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA: LLYR WILLIAMS PLAYS BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTO NO.4 3/3, Queen’s Hall Directed by SCO Associate Artist Alexander Janiczek, this survey of Mozart and Beethoven, accompanied by provocative Welsh pianist Llŷr Williams, brings you Mozart’s vivacious Second Violin Concerto and Beethoven’s sublime Fourth Piano Concerto. www.thequeenshall.net

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29 FEBRUARY - 6 MARCH

SIMON & GARFUNKEL THROUGH THE YEARS - A TRIBUTE BY BOOKENDS 3/3, Festival Theatre Watch Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel give their personal accounts of their rise to fame, and listen to wonderful live performances by the Bookends, including hits like Bridge Over Troubled Water and Mrs. Robinson.

A most authenticsounding show, live performances are bound together with video clips, audio snippets and imagery. www.edtheatres. com

Top picks

TORD GUSTAVSEN: HYMNS & VISIONS WITH SIMIN TANDER & JARLE VESPESTAD NATIONAL STALLION SHOW 5/3, Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston Going for more than 150 years, the National Stallion Show showcases the three native Scottish draft horse breeds: Clydesdale Horses, Shetland Ponies and Highland Ponies. The show includes competitive classes within each breed, ranging from the junior filly and colt classes to the senior stallion and mare classes. www.royalhighlandcentre.co.uk

JACK LIEBECK & KATYA APEKISHEVA 29/2, Queen’s Hall Since the age of 15, Jack Liebeck has appeared with many of the world’s leading orchestras and is now established as one of the most compelling young violinists on the concert platform. Partnered with his regular duo companion Katya Apekisheva, one of Europe’s most renowned pianists, this promises to be a one of a kind performance. www.thequeenshall.net

WEE DUB FESTIVAL 4-6/3, Old Town A reggae festival hosting a series of sessions across various underground venues in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This year’s line-up includes Aba Shanti-I, Dubkasm, Mungo’s Hi-Fi Soundsystem and many more. www.weedubfestival.co.uk

VIETNAMESE CUISINE WORKSHOP 5/3, Edinburgh Newtown Cookery School Vietnamese food is amongst the healthiest in the world. You will be shown how to make different dishes to sample for lunch and take home at the end of the day. www.entcs.co.uk

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4/3, Queen’s Hall Norwegian pianist Tord Gustavsen’s new project focuses on interpretations of ancient Norwegian hymns. www.thequeenshall.net

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WHAT’S ON

CIRQUE BERSERK!

Top picks

10-12/3, Festival Theatre Showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills, Cirque Berserk! brings a jaw-dropping spectacular – created especially for the theatre. Blending contemporary cirque-style skills with thrilling stunt action, this talented international troupe includes more than thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers, death-defying stunt men and award-winning clown, Tweedy. The show also features the world’s most dangerous circus act – the legendary motorcycle ‘Globe of Terror’. www.edtheatres.com

SCOTLAND V FRANCE 13/3, Murrayfield Stadium Scotland host France in the second of their 2016 Six Nations home matches. www.scottishrugby.org

CELTS 10/3-25/9, National Museum of Scotland The first major British exhibition on the Celts for over 40 years, this exhibition features spectacular treasures and the latest research from across Europe, telling the complex and fascinating story of the different peoples who have been called or have called themselves Celts. www.nms.ac.uk/celts

EDINBURGH QUARTET 8/3, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh Celebrated as one of Britain’s foremost chamber ensembles, they appear regularly at prestigious venues across the UK and have toured extensively worldwide. www.edinburghquartet.com

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7-13 March NT ENCORE SCREENING: AS YOU LIKE IT 8/3, Festival Theatre Shakespeare’s renowned play returns for the first time in 30 years. With her father the Duke banished and in exile, Rosalind (Rosalie Craig) and her cousin Celia leave their lives in the court behind them and journey into the Forest of Arden. There, released from convention, Rosalind experiences the liberating rush of transformation. Disguising herself as a boy, she embraces a different way of living and falls spectacularly in love. www.edtheatres. com

SCOTTISH MOTORCYCLE SHOW 12-13/3, Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston Scotland’s biggest and best motorcycle show returns to Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre with all the latest models, major manufacturers and breathtaking live action. It’s a haven for anyone with a passion for motorcycles. www.scottishmotorcycleshow.com

THE DEAD STATIONS: MIKE VASS/MAIRI CAMPBELL 11/3, Queen’s Hall Mairi Campbell is an influential and pioneering figure in Scottish music, her style having a rooted and powerful quality, and her musical interests being wide ranging. She draws in listeners with stories of ancestry, hope, love and passion. Paired with renowned Scottish fiddler and composer Mike Vass, the duo brings a story told through original music and animation, which combines live performance, recorded actors and projections. www.thequeenshall.net

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14-20 March JENNY ECLAIR: HOW TO BE A MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN WITHOUT GOING INSANE 19/3, Assembly Roxy Professional grumpy old woman, Eclair is younger than Madonna but eats crisps and likes wine. Semi-bearded and suffering from outbreaks of gout and hysteria, Eclair puts middle age under the microscope, and decides whether to laugh, cry or buy a dachshund. www.jennyeclair.com

TOM; A STORY OF TOM JONES, THE MUSICAL 15/3-19/3, Festival Theatre This inspirational story of self-belief and determination is performed live on stage by a phenomenal cast of actors and musicians, celebrating an ordinary man with an extraordinary talent who became a superstar on a world stage. Including all of Tom’s biggest hits, this musical will bring back some memories to the fans. www.edtheatres.com

IMPOSSIBLE 15/3-19/3, Edinburgh Playhouse Fresh from its ground-breaking run in the West End, prepare to be mesmerised and baffled as Impossible brings together world-class performers showing off a stunning range of magical artistry. The show features the world’s greatest illusionists live on stage in a magic spectacular that will thrill and amaze audiences of all ages.

Whatever you do, don’t try this at home! www.playhousetheatre.com

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WHAT’S ON

EDINBURGH BACH CHOIR: GEORGE DYSON - THE CANTERBURY PILGRIMS 19/3, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church An opportunity to hear this lively musical work rarely performed in Scotland, the Bach Choir is reviving The Canterbury Pilgrims. Based on Chaucer’s Prologue, the work, which premiered in 1931, depicts the virtues and vices of the pilgrims as they assemble at the Tabard Inn to begin their journey. www.edinburgh bachcoir.org.uk

Top picks

EDINBURGH YARN FESTIVAL 18-19/3, Edinburgh Corn Exchange A festival all about yarn, wool, knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving and felting.

The Corn Exchange becomes a paradise for all wool-lovers, offering a fantastic marketplace, forming an explosion of colour and texture, with some of the best vendors from the UK yarn and knitting industry and beyond to provide you with a unique festival experience. Find out all about the latest trends, learn a new skill and meet like-minded crafters. www.edinburghcornexchange.com

19/3, Edinburgh New Town Cookery School Learn how to make chocolate puddings, desserts and treats whilst also finding out about meringues, pastry and soufflés. www.entcs.co.uk

LYON & TURNBULL: CONTEMPORARY & POST-WAR ART AUCTION 16/3, 33 Broughton Place The Contemporary & Post-War Art specialists hold two auctions a year in Edinburgh, which feature work by emerging and internationally regarded artists. www.lyonandturnbull.com

LUDOVICO EINAUDI 20/3, Usher Hall Ludovico Einaudi has quietly become one of the most successful musicians in the world. His hauntingly beautiful and evocative music tops the charts in the UK and Europe, and he was BAFTAnominated for his score of This is England ’86. His music has been described as minimalist, alt-classical, ambient and contemporary, but it defies easy classification. www.usherhall.co.uk

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA: CHAMBER SUNDAYS 20/3, Queen’s Hall SCO principal players bring the 2015-16 chamber concerts to a colourful, dramatic conclusion with three hot-blooded works of luxuriant late Romanticism. www.thequeenshall.net

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CHOCOLATE HEAVEN

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WHAT’S ON

I AM THOMAS

Top picks

23/3 (-9/4), The Royal Lyceum In this comic and provocative piece of music theatre, directed by Paul Hunter, a rich vein of black humour explodes in this account of the last person in Britain to be executed for blasphemy. We glimpse into Edinburgh’s dark past to reveal this true story with a universal resonance. lyceum.org.uk

THRILLER LIVE 21-26/3, Festival Theatre Direct from London’s West End where it is now in its record-breaking seventh year, THRILLER LIVE is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer.

You will experience two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco. www. edtheatres. com

BONHAMS: ASIAN ART AUCTION 23/3, 22 Queen Street This is one of Bonhams’ thriceyearly Asian Art auctions, which offer Chinese and Japanese ivories, jades, bronzes, porcelain, pictures and furniture. www.bonhams.com

DUGGIE CHAPMAN ASSOCIATES: WE’LL MEET AGAIN 2016 24/3, The Brunton Musselburgh This brand new wartime cavalcade show celebrates 70 years since the end of World War 2; an afternoon variety show paying tribute to our Armed Forces of yesterday, today and tomorrow. www.thebrunton.co.uk

VICTORIAN SEANCE AND GHOST HUNT 25/3, The Stair Arms Hotel, Pathhead Join a team of mediums and paranormal investigators as they uncover the spooky secrets of the hotel. www.visitscotland.com

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21-27 March THE SPRINGSTEEN SESSIONS 26/3 The Brunton Musselburgh A must-see for all true The Boss fans, bringing you all the hits from legendary US rock musician Bruce Springsteen, including Born to Run, Born in the USA, Dancing in the Dark and many more. Join these seven highly accomplished musicians on their journey through Springsteen’s best days. springsteensessions.co.uk

NO SUCH THING AS A FISH WITH THE QI ELVES 25/3, Assembly Roxy Bizarre and humorous facts from the QI universe in the first live touring version of the hit podcast. www.assemblyroxy.com

REHEARSAL FOR MURDER 21-26/3, King’s Theatre Following the phenomenal decade-long success of The Agatha Christie Theatre Company, which sold over two million tickets and continually played to packed houses around the UK, Bill Kenwright presents a new production from the pen of the legendary award-winning writing team Levinson and Link, whose work includes the mystery series Murder, She Wrote and Columbo. The star cast includes Robert Daws, Amy Robbins and Ben Nealon. www.edtheatres.com

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WHAT’S ON SPOTLIGHT

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FESTIVAL 26/3 (-10/4), various venues The Festival returns with two weeks of sensational science and will explore the ways we can build a better world, tackling every scale from the personal to the cosmic through science, innovation and design. With interactive events, workshops, shows and exhibitions happening all over the city there’s a variety of great days out for the whole family alongside excellent entertainment for adults. www.sciencefestival.co.uk

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THE SOUNDS OF SCIENCE 30/3, Queen’s Hall This extraordinary project reveals how humans have changed the world over the last 10,000 years through a timeline of science and engineering played live using nothing more than sound. Celebrated percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie will perform the world premiere of a ground breaking 21-minute soundscape written by composer Jill Jarman and conceived by timeline specialist and world history author Christopher Lloyd.

DINO DAY 26/3, Summerhall Join in for a day of prehistoric fun family activities.

Play with robotic dinosaurs, discover dino fossils, meet Velma the Velociraptor and dig up the newest species of dinosaur yourself. There will also be the chance to try some dinosaur dressing up, as well as face painting, colouring-in and, as it’s Easter, a dino egg hunt.

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EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FESTIVAL

CASKS, COATS AND CHEMISTRY 26/3, Dissection Room, Summerhall A unique interwoven story of textiles, whisky and science. Ewan Henderson of Scotch Broth Events and textile specialist Alan Moore of ten30 will take you on a journey through taste and style as they experiment with the flavours and aromas that connect food, drink and fashion and even dissect a jacket. Sit back, relax and absorb the story as you sample wine and canapés paired at a molecular level in this multi-sensory event.

SPACE DAY 2/4, Summerhall Blast-off into outer space with intergalactic activities for the whole family. An expert will be on hand to talk about the wonders of the universe and answer your questions about the cosmos and there will be out-of-this-world demonstrations from the Royal Observatory Edinburgh.

Look out for our ‘rocket in your pocket’ space science busking around Summerhall as well as face painting, space suit dressing-up and a planetarium.

CHEESEOLOGY 2/4, Dissection Room, Summerhall What makes a brie taste like a brie and a cheddar taste like a cheddar? What does salt bring to the flavour and durability of cheese? Cheeseology is an exploration of the food science that lies behind the development of flavour in different cheese varieties.

Presented by Paul Thomas, dairy technologist, cheesemaking trainer and former professional cheesemaker, Cheeseology takes the turophile on a journey through the microbiology and biochemistry of this much loved food, bringing science to life with a tutored cheese tasting.

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UNCANNY VALLEY 29-31/3, Dissection Room, Summerhall When lonely teenager Ada creates her own robot pal, named O.K.A.Y. (Outstandingly Knowledgeable Android Youth), she has no idea the trouble it will cause.

Strange things start happening to her classmates and O.K.A.Y. seems to be showing signs of self-awareness. Is it responsible?

With your help, Ada must decide whether to destroy her best friend or risk her classmates lives.

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28 March-3 April NORTHERN BALLET 1984 31/3-2/4, Festival Theatre Based on George Orwell’s masterpiece and created by guest choreographer and former Royal Ballet dancer Jonathan Watkins, Northern Ballet’s 1984 will change the way you think about ballet.

With a brand new score from Tony-nominated composer Alex Baranowski played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia, see this iconic classic re-imagined. www.edtheatres.com

THE REAL THING 31/3, The Brunton Musselburgh Celebrating 40 years in the business, Britain’s No.1 Soul band returns to perform hits such as You To Me Are Everything, Can’t Get By Without You, Can You Feel The Force? and many more. The original vocalists, Chris and Eddie Amoo and Dave Smith, perform with their own five-piece band in a performance that includes all of their million-selling hits. www.thebrunton.co.uk

EDINBURGH COMIC CON 2-3/4, EICC Get out your costumes, Edinburgh’s Comic Con is returning to the Capital for the third year this April.

The event will feature a selection of traders, competitions and special guests. The event organisers have promised that this year will be better than ever with lots of experiences to appeal to your inner geekiness. www.heroconventions. com

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11/02/2016 14:27:52

WHAT’S ON

Top picks

NATHAN CARTER PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS 2/4, Queen’s Hall Ireland’s No.1 country singer is touring with his third studio album Beautiful Life, which shot straight to No 1 on the Irish Album Chart. His blend of country music with a folk twist has turned him into a superstar. His new album draws on a repertoire of classic song writing, bringing a contemporary twist to much-loved hits that span the history of modern pop along with country classics and a few folk favourites. www.thequeenshall.net

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL HARP FESTIVAL

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

CANNED LAUGHTER 29/3-2/4, King’s Theatre Canned Laughter brings together the talents of master impressionist and dameplaying star of Edinburgh’s annual panto Allan Stewart with comedy virtuoso Andy Gray and local hero Grant Stott to give audiences across Scotland a chance to see a seriously funny new play. www.edtheatres.com

28/3-2/4, Edinburgh Playhouse Following a recordbreaking worldwide tour, Richard O’Brien’s classic is ready to thrill you once again with its frothy fun and naughty moments.

Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite and Dammit, Janet! www.playhouse theatre.com

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1-6/4, Merchiston Castle School This annual festival is a celebration and gathering of musical talents. Every aspiring harpist from across the globe will be present at the beautiful parklands. Spend a day joining a workshop, meeting harp designers or enjoying a concert. harpfestival.co.uk

STOCKBRIDGE MARKET 3/4, Saunders Street Every Sunday you will find street food stalls and foodie produce to buy, plus original artwork and crafts at this popular market. www.stockbridgemarket.com

THREE DAY ESSENTIALS COURSE 30/3-1/4, Edinburgh New Town Cookery School This three-day course will teach the basic cookery skills which are essential for every cook to know.

Some of the skills covered are knife skills, cooking meat and fish, making pastry and baking, roasting and cooking vegetables. www.entcs.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

Top picks

PATSY CLINE: A TRIBUTE 10/4, King’s Theatre This wonderful show pays tribute to country music’s world-renowned superstar, featuring the talented Sandy Kelly. Her performance as Patsy has captured the hearts of legions of fans all over the world and this feel-good show will leave you wanting more as she performs Patsy’s unforgettable hits including, Crazy, Sweet Dreams, Walking After Midnight and I Fall to Pieces. www.edtheatres.com

DENEVE RETURNS: THE AULD ALLIANCE 8/4, Usher Hall It is Stephane Deneve’s first time back at the Usher Hall since he stood down as Music Director and he is celebrating in style with a mix of Scottish music, with a new piece by James MacMillan, and music from his native France ranging from Debussy to Ravel’s La vaise.

There will also be a pre-concert talk with Deneve. www.usherhall.co.uk

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4-10 April ROYAL OPERA HOUSE LIVE: THE ROYAL BALLET: GISELLE

RICK ASTLEY 4/4, Queen’s Hall Pop icon and multi-million selling artist Rick Astley has announced a full UK tour, his first major UK headline tour in four years.

He’s sold more than 19 million records with a string of eight consecutive top 10s under his belt including Together Forever, Forever Hold Me In Your Arms and the classic single Never Gonna Give You Up. Up www.the queenshall.net

GREGORY PORTER 10/4, Festival Theatre Brooklyn-based Gregory Porter continues to perform to sell-out audiences across the world and has achieved international recognition and acclaim with his Grammywinning album Liquid Spirit. This jazz vocalist, songwriter and actor is known to be a performer of extraordinary presence who has been compared with the greatest, such as Joe Williams, Nat Cole, Donny Hathway and Marvin Gaye. www.edtheatres.com/gregoryporter

5/4, The Brunton Musselburgh Giselle is the quintessential romantic classic, a love affair that begins in the real world and continues beyond the grave. The famous ballet shows how Giselle transforms from an innocent peasant girl, duped into love, to a forgiving spirit who saves her lover from death, resulting in a dynamic ballet performance of change and evolution. www.thebrunton.co.uk

THE CAT EMPIRE PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS 9/4, Queen’s Hall Cat Empire describe their musical concept as being about transcending genre and a large portion of their performance is constructed out of pure improvised energy. Covering everything from jazz, reggae, funk, Latin, gypsy swing and hip hop, their popularity is constantly growing. This energetic blend of sounds makes for an exciting and sometimes mindboggling showcase. www.the queenshall.net

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11-17 April JACKIE THE MUSICAL

JOHN MCCUSKER BAND: 25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

12-16/4, King’s Theatre Once there was a time with no mobile phones and no Facebook, when teenage girls waited with bated breath by the letterbox for their weekly issue of Jackie Magazine. We revisit those heady days and tell the story of a recent divorcée who seeks advice once more from the pages of her old Jackie annuals. This musical is jam-packed with the best ‘70s hits which will ensure a night full of fun. www.edtheatres.com

16/4, Queen’s Hall 2016 will see award-winner John celebrate 25 years as a professional musician. His show includes some of the finest traditional musicians in Scotland. www.thequeenshall. net

XXXXX xxxxx xxxxxx xxxxx

LAZAREV CONDUCTS CINDERELLA 15/4, Usher Hall Glass slippers, ugly sisters and fairy godmothers…Cinderella was a godmothers… natural subject for a musical storyteller like Sergei Prokofiev, and if you love Romeo and Juliet, you’ll be enchanted by this, the most magical ballet score from our birthday composer. The RSNO’s Bolshoi-trained Conductor Emeritus Alexander Lazarev brings out the gypsy in Rachmaninov, and launches the anniversary cycle with Prokofiev’s rarely heard Fourth Concerto. www.usherhall.co.uk

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11/02/2016 14:29:37

WHAT’S ON

Top picks GREAT EDINBURGH RUN 17/4 Starting at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, the run takes you past some of Edinburgh’s most iconic scenery, such as Holyrood Park and Edinburgh Castle. This 10K race challenges you to push yourself to the very fullest of your capabilities. www.greatrun.org/great-edinburgh-run

SCOTTISH OPERA: RUSALKA 14/4 and 16/4, Festival Theatre This opera tells the tale of a water nymph dreaming of becoming human so she can fall in love with the Prince. Anthony McDonald’s enchanting production contrasts sweet, touching moments of beauty with the dark and menacing story at its core. www.edtheatres.com

GUYS AND DOLLS 12-16/4, The Playhouse A sizzling New York story of gamblers, gangsters and nightclub singers featuring some of Broadway’s best-loved showstopping tunes. Musical magic. www.playhousetheatre.com

MARTIN TAYLOR & MARTIN SIMPSON 15/4, Queen’s Hall Widely considered to be the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz and fingerstyle guitar playing, Taylor possesses an inimitable style that has earned him global acclaim from fellow musicians, fans and critics alike. His partner Simpson has had a 35-year professional music career and is acknowledged for his interpretations of traditional songs being masterpieces of storytelling. The duo returns to The Queen’s Hall for one night only. www.thequeenshall.net

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DYLAN MORAN - OFF THE HOOK 12-13/4, Usher Hall Following a sell-out tour of the UK, Australia and South Africa, the star of Black Books and Sean of the Dead, brings his latest stand-up show back to the UK for a limited run only. www.usherhall.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

Top picks

DEAD BY DAWN SCOTLAND’S INTERNATIONAL HORROR MOVIE FESTIVAL 21-24/4, Filmhouse Returning to the Filmhouse for its 23rd edition, Dead by Dawn screens films that will either make you laugh until you cry, or scare you so much you die. The films include independent and classic horror films, while short films will be screened as part of Spawn of the Dead. www.deadbydawn.co.uk

SUNDAY CLASSICS: BRUCKNER ORCHESTRA LINZ 24/4, Usher Hall Dennis Russell Davies has an unquestioned commitment to the music of our age and has recorded several Glass symphonies to great acclaim with this leading Central European orchestra. Joining them is celebrated Chinese pianist Melvyn Tan for some very interesting music making. www.usherhall.co.uk

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18-24 April ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S ‘THE 39 STEPS’ 19-23/4, King’s Theatre Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller, brilliantly and hilariously recreated, is now on tour after nine years in London’s West End. Follow the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women. This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action. www.edtheatres.com

TONIGHT.....FROM THE WEST END 23/4, Usher Hall The Usher Hall showcases an extravaganza of Musical Theatre this April as some of the hottest names from the West End and Broadway take to the stage to perform in an all-singing all-dancing production featuring some of the songs from the best-loved shows. One of the main artists is Christine Bianco (pictured), who has taken the world by storm with her amazing voice and her uncanny talent to sing in the style of pretty much anyone. www.usherhall.co.uk

LET IT BE 18/4-23/4, Edinburgh Playhouse Direct from the West End, this hit show celebrates the legacy of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band, showcasing the music of the Beatles in a concert charting the band’s meteoric rise from their humble beginnings in Liverpool’s Cavern Club, through the height of Beatlemania, to their later studio masterpieces. www.playhousetheatre.com

RORY MCGRATH 23/4, Assembly Roxy Join well-known comedian and writer Rory McGrath as he looks back on his career spent on the TV circuit. Best known for his roles in BBC’s Three Men in a Boat and They Think it’s all Over, McGrath recounts some of the most memorable and funniest episodes from his life in the business. www.assemblyroxy.com

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25 April-1 May GIFT EXPERIENCE SCOTLAND - DRIVING DAYS 30/4-2/5, Royal Highland Centre The Driving Days allow participants to get behind the wheel of such glamorous vehicles as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Porsche.

Included in all packages, customers will experience an extreme passenger experience in the Ariel Atom with a professional racing driver at the wheel. For younger car enthusiasts there is also a junior supercar driving experience which is available on selected school holiday dates - allowing budding drivers from 11 upwards to get behind the wheel. www.royalhighlandcentre.co.uk

TRADFEST EDINBURGH DUN EIDEAN SCOTTISH ENSEMBLE WITH NICOLA BENEDETTI 1/5, The Queen’s Hall Scotland’s most in-demand violinist Nicola Benedetti has captivated audiences and critics alike with her musicality and poise, and is a natural fit for the ethos and playing style of Scottish Ensemble. She will be performing as a soloist, being in her element in two Vivaldi concerti and a later work, his Indian-inspired Grosso Mogul. A theatrically exuberant piece with wonderfully demanding, fullywritten out cadenzas: prepare to witness some extreme dexterity from all performers. www.thequeenshall.net

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27/4-8/5 Edinburgh’s TradFest kickstarts the summer season with a feast of music, storytelling, dance, folk drama, folk film, literature & talks, crafts and visual arts in Scotland’s Capital. This blaze of contemporary colour is inspired by the traditions of May Day and Beltane, showcasing Celtic arts and cultural traditions with a contemporary spin.

TradFest combines local and international talent, making this festival a treasure trove for art lovers. www.tracscotland.org/festivals/tradfest

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WHAT’S ON

OF MICE AND MEN 26-30/4, King’s Theatre Set in America during the Great Depression, this classic play tells the story of George and Lennie, two migrant farm workers, who go in search of new beginnings, dreaming of building a home.

Soon they find themselves caught up with trouble when events spiral out of control. www.edtheatres. com

Top picks

SUSAN TOMES SOLO PIANO RECITAL 25/4, The Queen’s Hall Winner of numerous awards as performer and recording artist, Tomes celebrates some of the great pioneers of piano music in this irresistible programme. Combining Haydn’s wit and daring, Schumann’s mysterious storytelling, the gorgeous sonorities of Debussy, and the poker-faced humour of Gyorgy Ligeti, this concert offers a big variety of different genres. www.thequeenshall.net

MARY POPPINS 27/4 (-21/5), Festival Theatre The magical story of the world’s favourite Nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane has been triumphantly and spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The stage version of Mary Poppins is brilliantly adapted from the wonderful stories by PL Travers and the beloved Walt Disney film. www.edtheatres.com

29/4, Usher Hall As part of Usher Hall’s anniversary Stravinsky Project, Thomas Søndergård brings Schubert and Stravinsky together. www.usherhall.co.uk

ARTISAN BREAD 30/4, Edinburgh New Town Cookery School On this one-day course five different breads are made.

The role of yeast and gluten is explained, along with some of the science of breadmaking which will enable the recipes to be repeated at home with excellent results. www.entcs.co.uk

INTRODUCTION TO WHISKY & TASTING 29/4, Whiski Rooms Learn the flavour profiles of Scotland’s four main whisky regions and explore how the landscape has influenced the flavour of our national drink. www.whiskirooms.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

JESS & THE BANDITS

Top picks

2/5, Electric Circus Showing the power of country music frontwoman Jessica Clemmons, the Texan singer-songwriter, joins the four Brits who make up the Bandits. jessandthebandits.com

RSNO THE RITE OF SPRING 6/5, Usher Hall When The Rite of Spring was premiered, it started a riot – and a century on, music is still reeling from the aftershock. Stravinsky’s explosive ballet score is the ultimate orchestral thriller, but the same electricity crackles through his jazzy Violin Concerto: Thomas Søndergård and the superb young American violinist Stefan Jackiw supercharge it. First, Béla Bartók follows Stravinsky’s lead with a ballet so colourful, so powerful, and so downright outrageous that it was actually banned. www.usherhall.co.uk

JOHN ELLIOT TRIO 3/5, The Shore Bar & Restaurant The acoustic jazz piano trio is back with their unique choice of jazz standards arrangements and more. Drop by for a drink and listen to the free jazz. www.fishersbistros.co.uk

RED RAW 2/5, The Stand The comedy club’s long-running weekly beginner’s showcase is regarded as the best open mic night in the UK where you can catch up to ten new acts. Keep an eye out for old hands dropping in to try out new material too. www.thestand.co.uk

PORTRAIT DETECTIVES AGES 4-12 8/5, Scottish National Portrait Gallery On the second Sunday of every month, kids can collect a detective kit and follow clues amongst the portraits to solve a mystery from history. www.nationalgalleries.org

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2-8 May ANATOMY FOR SCULPTORS WITH ALAN MCGOWAN 6/5, 19 West Harbour Road This three-day course in Human Anatomy for Sculptors, carried out through lifedrawing, demonstration and anatomical examples, will look at all the main skeletal and muscular structures examining origins and insertions and seeing how they influence surface form to inform making. www.powderhallbronze.co.uk

HORRIBLE HISTORIES 4-7/5, Edinburgh Playhouse So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage.

Using actors and 3D special effects, this show is guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. www.playhousetheatre.com

CHILDREN’S CIRCUS CLASS 3/5, Summerhall This is a chance for children aged between 5 and 11 to learn balancing, juggling, hulahoop, acrobatics and other circus skills. Classes are taught, but also have a free play element where children are encouraged to experiment with their favourite props, to create tricks and acts of their own. If they would like, they may include them in the end of term show. www.summerhall.co.uk/2015/circusalba-5-12s

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DIRECTORY

City directory DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION

Alison Hogg | Designer & Printmaker Specialist in silk screen and limited edition prints.

Collection includes scenes of Edinburgh and London, personalised commissions and pet portraits.

07913224914

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alison@alisonhogg.com

www.alisonhogg.com FOOD & DRINK

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Try our new gluten free range today

Marshall & Miller Joinery

07444499217 Marshallmillerjoinery@gmail.com

Specialising in the fitting of UPVC windows, doors and conservatories.

We deliver the best products at great prices.

Our time served joiners will make sure your installation is fitted to the best of our ability and with no fuss.

Call for a free quotation.

No hard sell.

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EDINBURGH

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EDINBURGH SOCIAL

Scene in Edinburgh EVENT: Scot Street Style’s Blind Pig party. LOCATION: The Biscuit Factory Photographed by Dominic Martin

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#1 Charlie Parker, Alina Maksimova #2 Tristan Cameron-Harper, Miss Kelly Bakewell #3 Wacera Kamonji, Rachel McKinlay #4 Lord Holyrude #5 Mark Thomson, Vixy Rae, Tom Cairns #6 Jo Miller, David Avery SF EDINBURGH

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EVENT: Laing and Rolex’s Winter Wonderland. LOCATION: Assembly Rooms.

Photographed by Gerardo Jaconelli & Heather Yates

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#1 Aileen and Jason Staines #2 Emma Thyne, Maria O’Rourke, Kimberly Asut #3 Daisy Richardson, Douglas Brown #4 David and Alexa Guy #5 Jennifer Adams, Lisa Allason #6 Lisa Daisley, Tony Singh #7 Gillian Bain, David Boland #8 Jennifer Gammell, Roddy Scott, Diane Pickering #9 Karen Maidment, Grace Brownlow

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EDINBURGH SOCIAL

EVENT: Probably the best Burns Supper in the world. LOCATION: Prestonfield House.

Photographed by Angus Blackburn

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#8 #1 Kirsty Penrice, Jof Ruxton #2 Catherine Elliott, Paul Fitch, Prof. Eve Jonstone #3 Perry & Jayne Anthony, Rebecca Anthony #4 Prof Hamish Wallace, Sue Frame #5 Cameron Goodall, Carol Main #6 Kirsty Parry, Sioned Davies, Roshmi Heaton #7 Gemma Gray, Nicola Pickavance, Carolyn Harrison, Helen Harrison, Sue Bruce #8 Colin McCulloch, Linda Middlemist SF EDINBURGH

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EDINBURGH SOCIAL

EVENT: The Printing Press launch party. LOCATION: George Street.

Photographed by Martin Shields

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#1 Elizabeth & Alexander McCall Smith, Sarah Ewing #2 Cat Harvey, Peter Samson #3 John Wilson, Cathy McFarlane, Craig Hill #4 Kelly McEwan, Josh Steeples #5 Helen Fyfe, Kirsty Tyre #6 Hayley Stokes, Gaynor Bowers, Lucy Nicol #7 Michael Jamieson, Gillian Cook #8 Ross Burns, Chris Brookmyre, Susan Burns #9 Daniel Strachan, Jonathan Trew

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EDINBURGH SOCIAL

EVENT: Paired food and drink menu launch. LOCATION: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa. Photographed by Gerardo Jaconelli

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#7 #1 Jason White, Gayle Mackail #2 Sharon Ahern, Tristan Nesbitt #3 Emma Offord, Jeremy Watson #4 Yemi King, Craig Hart #5 Dougie Steele, Iain Rowan, Derek Stark, Glenn Tippett #6 Jason White, Tristan Nesbitt, Alessandro Borelli, Ryan Grant, Richie Vernon #7 Carron & George Easdon SF EDINBURGH

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THE LAST WORD

My Edinburgh The internationally-known best-selling author is constantly inspired by the city that he calls home WORDS BY A LEXANDE R Mc C AL L S MI T H

I moved to Edinburgh from Botswana to study Law at the university. My family were Scottish, so it was the natural place to come.

I think Edinburgh is a city that is very easy to fall in love with. It’s so beautiful and intriguing, but it takes a bit of getting to know I think.

For 44 Scotland Street I wanted to write about an Edinburgh tenement and it’s become popular all over the world.

We’ve become accustomed to things being set elsewhere, London or New York or whatever, but actually so many people visit Edinburgh and we can hold our heads up in that company.

I was asked to do the Edinburgh book (A Work of Beauty: Alexander McCall

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It is a city that is easy to fall in love with, it’s so beautiful and intriguing Smith’s Edinburgh) by the Royal Commission of Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. I’ve written about the city, my experience of it, my feelings about it. I loved doing that.

In the old days, when Mr McDuffie was running it, I used to go to the Doric Tavern. In my Edinburgh book there’s a picture of three of the waitresses taken there in 1973 and I recognised them all. Nowadays, I go and have lunch once a week or so in Glass and Thompson on Dundas Street, I’ve set scenes of books there.

And there’s a very nice little French bakery-come-coffee house in Bruntsfield called La Barantine that I like to go to too.

One of the things that strikes me when I come home to Edinburgh from my travels is just how green, neat and tidy everything looks. We tend to just get used to that, but when you fly back from somewhere else it’s quite striking.

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