NUJ members at the Scotsman have passed a motion of “anger and dismay” and are seeking an urgent meeting with their editor to discuss the latest round of cuts in which one out of four in the newsroom has been placed at risk of redundancy.
The cuts, which were announced on Wednesday, are across specialist reporters, business and features, with a proposal to cut five roles. They follow the axing of two football writers in January, leaving just one dedicated football reporter.
At the same time, their Glasgow-based rival has been recruiting football writers and last year launched two new football websites covering Edinburgh teams Hibs and Hearts.
The NUJ chapel at the National World flagship title has called upon editor Neil McIntosh to hold a meeting with staff to explain why such severe cuts were needed only three weeks after he told journalists they had achieved year-on-year growth and congratulated them for their performance, effort and hard work.
The decision on the cuts was made by National World’s senior executives based in England following what has been described as a failure to hit targets for subscriptions. The page view target for scotsman.com was to double traffic by the end of 2024, and the first half of the year had been described as a “good start” by the editor in an email to staff.
National World boasted in their half-yearly results that their websites and apps had increased by 8 per cent since year end, and The Scotsman, Yorkshire Post, News Letter, Express and Star and Shropshire Star had grown their subscriber base by 17 per cent since December 2023.
The Scotsman, like many newspaper groups, has been unable to capitalise on switching revenues from print to digital at a time when the traditional newspaper model is in decline.
The latest ABC figures available show The Scotsman sold 7,710 daily copies on average for the last half of 2023, around a tenth of what it sold 25 years ago.
It has recently ranked poorly and below rivals in Google News’s organic search for Scottish news stories.
Nick McGowan-Lowe, NUJ national organiser for Scotland, said: “Our members at The Scotsman shouldn’t have to pay the price for the muddled mess of a business strategy from National World. They have achieved what they have been asked to do, and their editor has congratulated them for it.
“National World management claim they are trying to turn the company into a ‘premium content business’, but these job cuts fall on those same talented, award-winning journalists who consistently produce excellent Scottish journalism.
“National World CEO David Montgomery needs to be supporting the editor of The Scotsman and its journalists so they can continue to produce quality, informed journalism. You don’t attract more subscribers by offering them less content.”
The Cyber and Fraud Centre – Scotland is encouraging organisations to stay diligent and enjoy a fraud-free Fringe
With Edinburgh preparing for thousands of visitors to descend for the world’s largest performing arts festival in August, Scotland’s leading cybercrime and fraud organisation is urging businesses to be on the defensive against fraudsters during one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Ticketing scams, although uncommon, can ruin the Fringe experience, and the Cyber and Fraud Centre – Scotland is warning businesses that might be looking to book tickets as a team day activity or treat for clients to be on the lookout for counterfeit tickets. The Centre is urging businesses to be aware of look-alike and unauthorised websites, and, with fake sponsorship ‘opportunities’ also on the rise, businesses need to do their due diligence when approached about becoming a sponsor.
The Centre is also encouraging businesses to be mindful of the legitimacy of accommodation offers during the Fringe when booking stays for staff or clients and says that unusually cheap holiday offers or ones asking for a high deposit should be treated with suspicion.
Furthermore, with Business Email Compromise (BEC) becoming a more and more common method of scamming, particularly within a business environment, the Centre is urging employees to be vigilant. BEC involves fraudsters using fake but convincingly designed emails to compromise email accounts and therefore potentially access sensitive data.
With fake invoices being an example of BEC likely to be used during the Fringe, the Cyber and Fraud Centre – Scotland is encouraging organisations to ensure that their staff have received robust cybercrime and fraud prevention training and are aware of how to identify and respond to potential security threats in the workplace.
Jude McCorry, CEO of the Cyber and Fraud Centre – Scotland, said: “It’s crucial that organisations have well-developed and tested cybersecurity systems in place all year round, but businesses might find themselves particularly vulnerable during the Fringe.
“Education and communication are foundational to being well-prepared against the threat of cybercrime and fraud. We would encourage Edinburgh’s businesses to stay aware of the cyber climate around them, implement robust security measures and ensure their staff are sufficiently trained to give themselves the best possible chance of enjoying a Fringe festival free from fraud”.
Lyndsey Jackson, Deputy Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, added: “The Fringe is a wonderful celebration of creativity and community and we’d encourage everyone to jump in and take part as see as many shows as you can squeeze in.
“To keep yourself and your business fraud safe always buy directly from the venue or the Fringe Box Office, website and app and look for the STAR Logo for extra assurance and if something looks too good to be true, then it probably is.
“The Fringe is fast paced, exciting and dynamic so don’t let that trick you and your business into letting your guard down – and don’t forget we have customer service and artist support teams you can speak to if you’ve got questions – we’re here to help you find your seat at the Fringe.”
Individuals and organisations interested in learning more can follow this link to read the Cyber and Fraud Centre – Scotland’s tips and advice in full online.
The R&A has unveiled the world’s first ‘playable golf billboard’ at Edinburgh Waverley Station to allow fans to experience playing the par-3 8th hole of the iconic Old Course in St Andrews, host venue of this year’s AIG Women’s Open.
As part of AIG Women’s Open new ‘Never Stop Playing’ campaign, the activation aims to elevate the excitement of golf for fans. This innovative billboard transforms into a golf simulator, offering an engaging opportunity for both new and longtime fans to connect with the Championship in a fun and interactive way.
The R&A has created this playable billboard to reimagine how golf enthusiasts engage with the sport, while also promoting the upcoming AIG Women’s Open, which will be held at St Andrews from 21 – 25 August 2024.
Fans can step up to the billboard, grab a real club and ball, and take a swing like never before. The technology employs cameras to track the player’s velocity, arc, and direction, digitally encoding the swing in real-time to show where the ball will land on the virtual par-3, 8th hole.
Players will be captivated as they watch the ball fly across the LED screen, displaying its arc and flight path towards the target.
With a real-time leaderboard tracking nearest to the pin shots, participants can compete in a fun golf challenge. Those nearest to the pin will receive an exciting prize from the AIG Women’s Open: a pair of Sunday tickets and a chance for the winner to be an official walking scorer for one of the groups during the final round at St Andrews.
Not just for avid golfers, those keen to take their first ever golf shot can also win prizes in the furthest from the pin challenge.
Zoe Ridgway, Championship Director of the AIG Women’s Open at The R&A said, “This activation brings the excitement of golf to a whole new level, allowing players to experience the thrill of golf in a fun and interactive way.
“As part of our new ‘Never Stop Playing’ campaign, we are giving both new and longtime fans the opportunity to engage with the AIG Women’s Open like never before, reaching new audiences and enhancing their connection to golf.”
Georgia Hall,2018 Women’s Open champion, said, “This looks like such a fun and innovative concept from The R&A.
“The playable billboard is a brilliant idea to introduce more people to golf and get them excited about the AIG Women’s Open. It’s initiatives like these that will keep our sport growing and evolving.”
Designed to resemble a traditional advertising billboard, this innovative attraction offers a unique and eye-catching experience for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a casual player or a first time golfer, the playable billboard promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
The R&A will compile all the shot tracers from the day’s play onto the billboard screen at once, creating a stunning visual display. This impressive feature highlights the relentless passion and continuous engagement of golfers, showcasing how they ‘Never Stop Playing’.
Tickets to the AIG Women’s Open are now on sale via aigwomensopen.com. Adult tickets are available from £20, with Saturday tickets including a full day of golf action and entry to the Tom Grennan concert priced at £55.
To encourage children and young people to attend the AIG Women’s Open, The R&A will continue the successful ‘Kids go Free’ programme on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, which provides children under-16-years-old free entry to the Championship when accompanied by a paying adult.
Half-price youth tickets are also available on those days for 16-24-year-olds. Junior and youth tickets for Saturday’s golf action and Tom Grennan concert are £20 and £40 respectively.
Hospitality packages are also on general sale, offering an unrivalled way to experience the Championship in which guests can enjoy over ten hours of world-class action and fully inclusive hospitality.
A group of 26 tenants living in Leith have walked the distance from John o’Groat’s to Land’s End on paths around north Edinburgh. The group challenge recreated all the steps of the famous route over six weeks.
The walk was inspired by the success of the group’s virtual NC500 walk during lockdown in 2020. Harbour Homes’ sheltered housing coordinators recognised the benefits of a group challenge to promote movement for mental health.
The group exceeded the target distance by travelling over 1,280 miles on foot. This equates to over three million steps in six weeks.
Ellen who joined the walk said: “The virtual walking group was a great incentive to get up every morning and walk instead of sitting watching TV.
“I started to feel better about myself.”
Craig enjoyed the challenge and said: “It showed how much effort everyone put into the challenge.
“It was very worthwhile.”
Michael added: “I liked the challenge, it was really good for the body and mind.
“I really enjoy the walking group and catching up with everyone.”
Maureen Combe, Sheltered Housing Manager at Harbour Homes said:“There would be no challenge without our tenants, and we are very proud of the dedication shown by the walking group this summer.
“It is well known that one of the best things we can do to look after our mental health is to move regularly, and the benefits increase when we move as part of a group.
“I’m eager to see what our tenants accomplish next!”
Harbour Homes’ sheltered housing coordinators plan to keep the momentum going with more walking activities and challenges throughout the year.
Scottish food businesses, producers and groups are encouraged to apply for grants of up to £5,000 to promote and champion produce from their local area.
Scotland Food & Drink Partnership’s Regional Food Fund, launches its fifth round with £100,000 available from the Scottish Government to support regional food activity across Scotland.
Since 2018, the Scottish Government has provided over £770,000 to the fund, which has supported 167 collaborative projects, varying from food and drink tourism trails, festivals, new equipment and regional marketing campaigns.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “Food and drink is one of our largest industry sectors, and Scotland’s largest employer with an industry value of over £15 billion. The engagement of regional markets is vital in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the next ten years.
“Scotland has a highly successful and influential food and drink sector and this fund allows us to demonstrate that through the development of creative food and drink projects.
“These grants allow opportunities to increase the promotion of local produce, the chance for businesses to engage and educate local communities about what is available and showcase some of our most exciting food and drink ventures.”
Euan Armstrong, at Visit Moray Speyside, which was supported by the fund said: “The Regional Food Fund has contributed to Taste Of Moray Speyside’s overall brand presence by assisting in the development of various events and promotional activities.
“The feedback from businesses participating in Cocktail Week and Farm To Fork Week has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Lesley Wilkinson of Forth Valley Food and Drink, another recipient, said: “The Regional Food Fund has been instrumental in bringing our vision to life.
“It enabled us to produce a series of compelling short documentary films that celebrate the rich and diverse food and drink scene of the Forth Valley.”
Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona Richmond said: “The Regional Food Fund is now entering its fifth round, a real testament to the importance of this programme.
“In the past, the fund has helped bring to life food and drink festivals, promotion campaigns for Scottish produce, market weekends, cook schools and many more collaborative opportunities showing the quality of produce and the journey from field to fork.
“The Fund encourages collaboration within regions and the supply chain, shining a spotlight on unique food and drink stories and experiences for us all to enjoy. The desire for local produce is strong, and Scotland Food & Drink are proud to continue our support to regional food and drink initiatives.”
Eligible businesses and groups are encouraged to apply for a grant and to work collaboratively with others to continue to engage communities and achieve regional food and drink success.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on 30 August 2024.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with local leaders in Southport today to confirm a package of support for the local community, following the appalling killings and violent disorder that rocked the area earlier this week.
The package will equip local leaders and agencies so that the right support is in place for victims, ensure the needs of bereaved families are at the heart of the response, and drive longer term efforts to bring the community together.
During his visit to Southport the prime minister took part in a meeting with Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram, Chief Constable Serena Kennedy and other leaders drawn from local policing, faith groups, healthcare providers and voluntary and education sectors, where they discussed next steps and the importance of working together to help Southport recover from these horrific events. The Prime Minister also travelled to Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool to thank staff for their hard work and enduring professionalism.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “As a nation, we stand with those who tragically have lost loved ones in the heinous attack in Southport, which ripped through the very fabric of this community and left us all in shock.
“It is truly inspiring to hear of all the ways in which people have come together in the face of such horrors to demonstrate true bravery, resilience and solidarity.
“I cannot begin to imagine the pain that people are going through right now, but I am determined to make sure that Southport and its leaders have all the support they need to preserve and nurture this strength of community spirit – not just in the immediate aftermath, but also in the years to come.”
Government and local partners are working together to coordinate a comprehensive multi-agency support offer for bereaved families and all those affected across Southport – this could include access to vital mental health and psychological services; effective communication with those affected; and a programme of engagement with the community on how to best recover and rebuild in the aftermath of the horrific events.
In order to support the long term recovery of the area, government will work with local partners on new ways to equip local leaders to help bolster community cohesion and build local resilience, including by setting up a programme of local community events and activities to help bring people together and create long lasting support networks drawing from local schools, businesses, faith groups, sports clubs and other key partners.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said: “The horrendous events of Tuesday have caused untold shock and horror across the whole country but has left Southport struggling to come to terms with such a tragedy on its doorstep.
“Once the glare of the national media has moved on, it leaves behind a community that needs to come together and rebuild. This is a tight knit area and we have already seen that inclusivity and community on full display in the town’s response to the mindless violence on Tuesday night.
I”t will not happen overnight, but we are determined to restore trust, build on that remarkable resilience – and, above all, ensure that Bebe, Elsie and Alice, and the victims and those traumatised, are never forgotten.
“On behalf of the Liverpool City Region, I’d like to thank the Prime Minister for the personal commitment he has given to supporting Southport through this extraordinarily difficult time.”
The package will also help support local leaders’ efforts to honour the memory of those tragically killed or injured, working with schools and others affected to commemorate them in line with the local community’s wishes.
It comes alongside extensive care delivered through the NHS for anyone affected by the terrible incidents, including specialist psychological and bereavement support services tailored to individuals’ needs and access to 24/7 crisis support.
Local hospitals and healthcare services delivering support to victims, bereaved families and other people affected are also being provided with advice in order to make sure staff are best equipped to give people the help and expert care they need.
Today’s measures follow wider efforts by government to prevent further violence and unrest on our streets through a new National Violent Disorder Programme. This will bring together expert policing capabilities from across the country, drive better intelligence sharing and deploy innovative technologies more effectively to stamp out criminal behaviour and bring those responsible for violence to justice.
Government will continue to work closely with community leaders over the weeks and months ahead to ensure people, businesses and the local economy all receive ongoing support in order to drive recovery and local growth, including sustaining Southport’s thriving tourism sector and cultural attractions.
Lead Service Royal Navy is joined by more than 800 performers on Edinburgh Castle’s iconic Esplanade this August!
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has returned to amaze crowds once again with this year’s Show, Journeys.
Providing all the artistic fanfare that Tattoo fans have come to expect, running until 24 August the Show will honour the seafarers who courageously traverse the oceans to connect people and cultures across continents. Joined by the Royal Navy as the Lead Service, talented performers are set to take crowds on an epic journeyof connection through music, dance, culture, and military traditions.
Talents from the USA, India, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, and homegrown acts from around the UK will come together in a powerful display that embraces both tradition and modernity, this artistic odyssey will grasp audiences through the creative projections, drill, dance and so much more.
The Edinburgh Castle Arena will play host to the stirring sounds of the Massed Pipes and Drums, the precision talents of the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard and the poise of the Tattoo Dancers. As well as welcoming US musical talents from The Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes and the United States Sea Service Band – a tri-service band created especially for the 2024 Tattoo.
In a burst of energy and colour, Teamwork Arts India showcase The Rajasthani Bagpiper, The Bhangra Queens, and the Bollywood Ensemble, and Majesticks Drum Corps from Switzerland will dazzle with a display of precision drill.
As Lead Service, the Royal Navy will take centre stage alongside the Royal Marines as The Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines perform the National Anthem in a grand finale suitable for one of the greatest shows on earth.
Michael Braithwaite, Creative Director at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “Journeys is a vibrant celebration of connection between peoples and cultures. As the Tattoo continues to evolve, so do the performers who light up the stage in August.
“I can’t wait for audiences to see the results of the hard work put in over the last year from everyone involved in the show. Audiences are in for a night to remember.
“Journeys merges the traditional military elements that the Tattoo is known and loved for, along with modern touches through creative projection, technology, costume design and music inspirations to create a truly impactful performance.”
The full line-up for 2024 includes: The Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion Scots Guards, 1st Battalion Irish Guards Drums and Pipes, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Gurkha Rifles, Combined Pipes and Drums of The Royal Tank Regiment and Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, The Citadel Pipes and Drums, Australian Federal Police Pipes and Drums, Brisbane Boys’ College, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Pipes and Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Fiddlers, The Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes, Majesticks Drum Corps, United States Sea Service Band, United States Navy Ceremonial Guard and Teamwork Arts India.
Tickets are still available and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 2 – 24 August 2024, with Presenting Partner, Innis & Gunn, offering a bar service at the event.
Tickets for 2025’s Show celebrating the 75th Anniversary of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will go on sale on 26 August 2024, with a special pre-sale open to 2024 ticket holders from 5 August.
The 2024 Edinburgh International Festival begins today with the first of more than 160 events in an exhilarating 24-day celebration of opera, dance, music and theatre in Scotland’s capital city. More than 2,000 internationally renowned artists from across 42 nations, including more than 1,000 Scottish artists, will perform.
The International Festival opens with Opening Event: Where to Begin, an immersive outdoor experience in partnership with The Macallan single malt Scotch whisky. The event is set to welcome thousands in central Edinburgh, blending installation, projection and live performance for only three nights, from2 – 4 August.
First week highlights include: the world-premiere staged adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s bestselling memoir The Outrun, the Scottish premiere of Argentinian composer Osvaldo Golijov’s La Pasión según San Marcos, and the UK production premiere of Carmen, direct from Paris’s legendary opera house, Opéra-Comique.
To ensure that cost isn’t a barrier to cultural discovery, 2024 sees our most generous concessions policy to date: 50% of tickets for the 2024 International Festival are sold at £30 or less. More than 4,000 £10 Affordable Tickets across every event in the programme have already been allocated to those who need them, and many more are still available. Tickets can be purchased from www.eif.co.uk.
TODAY, the Edinburgh International Festival opens its 24-day programme of more than 160 events for its 77th edition. The original festival, the one that started it all in Edinburgh, runs 2 – 25 August, and features a hand-picked programme of the world-leading artists in theatre, dance, music and opera, framed by the theme of ‘Rituals That Unite Us’.
More than 2,000 artists from across 42 nations will perform at the International Festival this August, in a major moment in the international arts calendar. Over 1,000 of these performers are from Scotland, and all five Scottish national performing arts companies are represented in this year’s programme.
In 2024, Festival Director Nicola Benedetti’s second year, the International Festival brings 5 world premieres, 13 UK and Scottish premieres, and 2 European premieres to Edinburgh, including an extensive opera programme, with promenade opera Oedipus Rex in the National Museum of Scotland and two staged operas from major international companies: Carmen from the Opéra Comique and The Marriage of Figaro fromKomische Oper Berlin.
Kicking off the International Festival, Opening Event: Where to Begin invites nearly 10,000 visitors and locals alike to ignite their festival season with a communal experience which evokes the mythology and history of Scotland’s rich heritage. The new event in Edinburgh’s festival traditionwill transform the grounds and magnificent renaissance architecture of George Heriot’s with immersive installation, live performance and video projection.
Presented in partnership with The Macallan, with creative producer Pinwheel and support from EventScotland, the Opening Event runs across three nights from Friday 2 August to Sunday 4 August. Tickets are available online for £15 and concessions from £7.50 are available.
The first week of the International Festival also features not-to-be-missed performances from some of the world’s leading artists, including:
The world premiere of The Outrun,the stage adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s best-selling memoir. Brought to life by Olivier Award-winning playwright Stef Smith, director Vicky Featherstone and Edinburgh’s producing theatre The Royal Lyceum Theatre Company,The Outrun will run throughout August at the Church Hill Theatre.
The most popular French opera in the world, Carmen, direct from Opéra-Comique – the Parisian opera house where it all began. The new production of Georges Bizet’s masterpiece is brought to the stage by director Andreas Homoki, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and Music Director of the Opéra-Comique, Louis Langrée, with an international cast led by Gaëlle Arquez as Carmen; runs 4-8 August at the Festival Theatre.
A two-part opening weekend exploring different ways of telling the same story, with two distinct interpretations of the Passion: Latin American and Afro-Cuban musical styles mix with contemporary classical expressions in the Scottish premiere of Osvaldo Golijov’sLa Pasión según San Marcos,on 3 August at Usher Hall. On 4 August at Usher Hall, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, their Chief Conductor Ryan Wigglesworth and the Edinburgh Festival Chorus take on Johann Sebastian Bach’s masterpiece, the St Matthew Passion.
The UK premiere of Penthesilea,Internationaal Theater Amsterdam’s production of Heinrich von Kleist’s classic. Ferocious and emotionally charged, Penthesilea is a powerful fusion of a rock concert and an ancient tragic love story, likened to Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet; runs 3-6 August at The Lyceum.
The Scottish premiere of Please right back, award-winning company 1927’s new family production combining fantastical animations with bold storytelling to explore the effects of the criminal justice system; runs 2-11 August at The Studio.
2024’s programme also offers an increased range of innovative and informal audience experiences, designed to create a closer union between artists and audiences.
Beanbag concerts are back after popular demand, designed to immerse audiences in an orchestral experience. Inspired by the work of Budapest Festival Orchestra founder and conductor Iván Fischer, audiences can take in the thrill and drama of the orchestra from the comfort of a beanbag or choose standard seating in the circle or balcony. Beanbag seating is still available for concerts by Brazil’s Ilumina, the Edinburgh Festival Chorus and the European Union Youth Orchestra conducted by Gianandrea Noseda.
The Hub, the International Festival’s home on the Royal Mile, once again hosts the most intimate performances in informal surroundings. During August, The Hub is home to The Hub Club Cafe (11am-6.30pm; food service until 5pm) & Bar (6.30pm – late), with drop-in open-doors rehearsals and ‘Ask the Artist’ moments on select days. The Hub music series is truly international – spanning Scotland, Ireland, Wales, India, China, Argentina, Brazil, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, US, Germany, Egypt, Estonia and West Africa, with these artists sharing their musical heritage, cultures and rituals.
Edinburgh International Festival Director, Nicola Benedetti said: “As we raise the curtain to open this year’s Edinburgh International Festival, we’re reminded of the power of art to unite and inspire us all.
“One of the most moving things in the world, to me, is to see mass, collective effort at work. Each person adding their expertise and experience to make the whole greater than the sum of its parts – and this year’s International Festival programme is the epitome of such a thing.
“I can’t wait for us all to come together this month, to seek, feel and discover something new.”
The 77th Edinburgh International Festival continues to 25 August.
To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.eif.co.uk.
Festivalgoers will be treated to the perfect blend of performances and given the chance to co-create their own bottle design using the power of AI
Johnnie Walker Princes Street The World’s Leading Spirit Tourism Experience* on Princes Street in the heart of Edinburgh, is hosting a series of events from local performers as part of its Edinburgh Festival Fringe sponsorship which is now in its third year.
Kicking off the programme of Fringe events, which will be held in the venue’s Label Studio, will be a host of incredible talent from Be United.
The group will energise audiences with electrifying performances from disco, soul, jazz and hip-hop as part of ‘This Is Your Fringe’(2nd & 3rd August), developed to showcase phenomenal Black talent within the Scottish creative sectors, inviting them to change the game at the Edinburgh Fringe.
The four artists, including singer Eyve, who performs a unique blend of hip hop, trap, jazz, and music which reflects her African roots are set to bring a celebration of community and exceptional music.
Additionally, throughout the festival (13-14, 16-17, 24-25th August), audiences can enjoy shows from a quartet of Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s very own Nicola Alexander and Lori Flannigan, and friends, who will be taking centre stage with ‘She Burns’.
The group who met while working in the venue will perform renditions of Burns poems interspersed with their own stories in a music and comedy cabaret style show, through a modern lens.
‘She Burns’ group members and current Experience Ambassadors, Nicola Alexander and Lori Flannigan, can also be spotted leading Johnnie Walker Prices Street’s signature ‘Journey of Flavour’.
What’s more, those visiting the venue from across the world will, for the first time at the venue, have the chance to enjoy this multi-sensory tour in Mandarin, Spanish, French and soon German, using special translation headsets.
Nicola said: “For us, performing She Burns in the place we met is an exciting full-circle moment. It will be brilliant to perform in this iconic building in the centre of Edinburgh during The Fringe.
“The team at Johnnie Walker Princes Street has always been behind us, nurturing our talents and continually championing the thriving arts and culture scene Scotland.”
Be United’s Creative Director, Collin Hills, said:“It’s fantastic to see a venue like Johnnie Walker Princes Street collaborating with smaller artists, giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents in the centre of Edinburgh throughout the festival.
“Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s ambitions to champion the arts align perfectly with our own. ‘This is Your Fringe’ is a great fit to help open up the art and culture scene throughout The Fringe to both those who have never ventured into the festival, as well as for Fringe veterans.”
Those looking to add a truly exclusive experience to their Fringe itineraries can now book the Johnnie Walker x Scott Naismith: Blue Label Bottle Design & Tasting Experience. Here, guests can co-create their very own unique bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label by harnessing cutting-edge, purpose-built AI-technology.
The bottle design element can be complimented at no extra charge by a bookable expert-led tasting of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, as well as a guided tasting of the incredibly special limited edition Johnnie Walker Blue Label ‘Elusive Umami’, in the rooftop Explorers’ Bothy bar.
Groove Down: An Edinburgh-based disco-soul band, formed in 2022, Groove Down blends progressive soul, disco, house, and funk to create a fresh, multicultural sound that is uniquely their own.
Cling: Known for his infectious Afrobeats, Cling is poised to light up the stage with an energetic performance that will set the tone for the festival.
August 3rd
Eyve: Bringing a passionate blend of hip hop, trap, jazz, and African roots, Eyve’s music reflects her life experiences and commitment to social and political issues, gender equality, and inclusivity.
JEmmanuel: Making a significant impact since 2023, JEmmanuel will deliver a mesmerizing performance of Retro-Soul, Blues, Jazz, and Funk, continuing to captivate audiences across Edinburgh.
Damian Lewis and Kelly Macdonald will attend the World Premiere of Euros Lyn’s The Radleys
Filmmakers Nina Conti and Mark Cousins also present new work
New guests join previously announced Saoirse Ronan, Thelma Schoonmaker, Alex Garland, Andrew Macdonald and Gaspar Noé in attendance at the Festival this year
A special late night screening of 28 Days Later will take place along with a late night Surprise Film presented by Gaspar Noé
Tickets across all events released from 3pm Thursday 1 August
The relaunched EIFF runs from Thursday 15 August to Wednesday 21 August
The relaunched Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has today announced a new selection of guests attending this year’s Festival in support of World and UK Premieres and events.
The Festival will also release more tickets across all screenings today from 3pm via edfilmfest.org, edfringe.com and via the EdFringe official app.
Newly announced to attend this year’s Festival are Damian Lewis and Kelly Macdonald who will present the World Premiere of Euros Lyn’s fresh reimagining of the vampire genre The Radleys.
Filmmaker Mark Cousins will attend the UK Premiere of his new award-winning documentary on Scottish artist Wilhelmina Barns-Graham A Sudden Glimpse to Deeper Things.
In attendance as part of the The Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence will be Arash Rakhsha for the urgent documentary All the Mountains Give, Jack King for the powerful Yorkshire-set drama The Ceremony; Mary Jiménez and Bénédicte Liénard for the richly poetic Fugue: Will Seefried for the haunting queer drama Lilies Not for Me: Daisy-May Hudson for the stirring film Lollipop: Abdolreza Kahani for the subversive comedy drama A Shrine; Bryan Carberry for the clear-eyed take on artificial intelligence **smiles and kisses you**; Nina Conti for the absurdist comedy road movie Sunlight; Kelsey Taylor for the dark psychological thriller To Kill a Wolf and Manuela Irene for the delicately moving Xibalba Monster.
Also in attendance for the Festival’s Out of Competition films will be fillmaker Sophie Fiennes for the immersive documentary Acting; Daniel Reisinger for the bittersweet comedy And Mrs, Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel for the Camera D’Or Winner Armand; Ben Rivers for Bogancloch about Jake Williams, a hermit living in the Scottish wilderness, Jake will also attend the Festival; Suzanne Smith and Sylvia Solf for their dance-filled South African documentary Joy Dancer; Polly Steele for the courageous documentary The Mountain Within Me, Greg Kwedar for the transcendent prison drama Sing Sing.
Previously announced guests include filmmaker Nora Fingscheidt and producer and actor Saoirse Ronan who will present the Opening Night UK Premiere of The Outrun the legendary Thelma Schoonmaker will present the inaugural Thelma Schoonmaker Prize for Short Filmmaking ExcellenceCompetition Shorts as well as introducing a retrospective screening of Emeric Pressburger and Michael Powell’s much loved classic I Know Where I’m Going! (1945) set on the Isle of Mull.
Filmmakers Carla J. Easton and Blair Young will be in attendance for the Festival’s Closing Night film, the World Premiere of the powerful new documentary Since Yesterday: The Untold Story of Scotland’s Girl Bands.
Master provocateur Gaspar Noé (Irreversible, Climax, Enter The Void) will attend the Festival for a special In Conversation event discussing his filmmaking career, ahead of presenting a special screening of Dario Argento’s horror masterpiece Suspiria (1977).
Writer, academic and former EIFF Director Lynda Myles will present Lynda Myles Celebrates: is a new special screening showcase for visionary cinematic work which this year is the World Premiere of Argentinian filmmaker Axel Cheb Terrab’s film Gala & Kiwi Axel Cheb Terrab and the cast will also be in attendance.
Also attending as part of the Midnight Madness strand will be Kit Redstone and Arran Shearing for the enigmatic and unexpected King Baby, and James Clarke and Daniel Shephard for the adrenaline fuelled thriller Sunray: Fallen Soldier which stars a cast of former Royal Marine Commandos who will also be in attendance.
Tickets for the recently announced Keynote Address In Conversation: Alex Garland and Andrew Macdonald will go on sale at 3pm today. Press and industry tickets for this event will be made available to EIFF delegates at 8.45am the day before, on a first come first served basis.
A special late night screening of 28 Days Later will take place on Saturday 17 August at 1am in Red Lecture Theatre at Summerhall.
GASPAR NOÉ PRESENTS: SURPRISE FILM and ALI PLUMB’S UNTITLED FILM QUIZ PROJECT were also released at 3pm yesterday (Thursday 1 August).
This year’s Festival programme features musical odysseys, dystopian worlds, laughter in the face of darkness, vivid portraits of characters from the fringes of society and reimagined inner and outer spaces. It showcases new work from filmmakers from the UK, US, Canada, Mexico, Norway, China, Kazakhstan, Belgium, Iran and beyond.
37 new feature films, 18 World Premieres including 10 World Premieres competing for the new Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence, 4 special retrospective screenings, 5 short film programmes including the new Thelma Schoonmaker Prize for Short Filmmaking Excellence competition, an In Conversation event with iconic filmmaker Gaspar Noé and a strand of thrilling Midnight Madness screenings make up a seven-day celebration of world-class new cinema which also allows audiences, press and industry to easily engage with the best of Edinburgh’s other arts and cultural Festivals.
EIFF venue partners this year embed the Festival in the heart of the Fringe landscape with screenings taking place at Cameo Cinema, Summerhall, 50 George Square, in partnership with Assembly Festival; Inspace on Crichton Street in partnership with Monkey Barrel Comedy; and Tollcross Central Hall, in a programme which champions a new generation of UK and international talent, including a strong selection of first and second features.
This year’s 77th edition of the Festival honours the film festival’s history, showcasing the very best talent in filmmaking in a format rooted in a local Scottish context whilst embracing the international diversity of creative expression. EIFF encourages audiences, film fans and industry professionals to make the trip this summer to Edinburgh.
Tickets are now on sale via edfilmfest.org, edfringe.com and via the EdFringe official app. Press and Industry accreditation for EIFF is open and closes on 2 August.
EIFF 2024 is supported by Screen Scotland and the BFI Audience Projects Fund, awarding National Lottery funding, the Industry Programme is backed by EXPO funding from the Scottish Government through Creative Scotland, and EventScotland part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.
Edinburgh International Film Festival runs from Thursday 15 to Wednesday 21 August 2024.
