Category: city centre

StagEHd Festival reveals 2023 programme

StagEHd Festival, Edinburgh’s newest open-access community theatre festival, has announced its 2023 programme.

Returning once more to the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens West, StagEHd 2023 will present a weekend of theatre on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June, with thanks to support from The National Lottery Awards for All Scotland fund. 

The festival opens at midday on Saturday 10 June by welcoming back the students of Momentum Performing Arts to kick things off with their Musical Mania (12:00, 10 Jun), a mash-up of musicals new and old.

Audiences demanded an encore from the group in 2022, and this year is bound to be the same, guaranteed to get you clapping, dancing, and singing along to your favourite stage hits. 

Following in the footsteps of this burgeoning talent, are two of Edinburgh’s oldest and newest community theatre companies. The Forth Act will preview their debut production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (13:30, 10 Jun) with a taster performance before their open-air run at Saughton Park later in June.

And Edinburgh People’s Theatre, Edinburgh’s longest running community theatre company, reprise their award-winning performance of The Book Club of Little Witterington (14:30, 10 Jun) from this year’s SCDA One-Act Play Festival. 

Later on Saturday afternoon, Shifting Sands Theatre will lead an all-ages Workshop in Clown & Physical Comedy (15:30, 10 Jun), before Frighthouse Productions share three tales of the surreal and spooky in The Wheel of Misfortune (16:30, 10 Jun), a family-friendly horror anthology inspired by Goosebumps and The Twilight Zone.

Finally on Saturday, Castle Rock will come alive with song as Edinburgh’s premier community choir, Sing in the City bring the first day of the festival to a close with Sing in the City – Under the Castle (18:00, 10 Jun).

Sunday’s performances start as all Sundays should, with a whole lot of interactive fun from Mr Blue Productions. Our ABC Story (12:00, 11 Jun) uses puppets, pockets, and a variety of objects to help young audiences create their very own “Once upon a time…” story. 


Mr Blue Productions StagEHd 2022, photo by John Preece

Pack up a Sunday picnic and enjoy lunchtime entertainment from the young dancers of KS Dance Academy who will get audiences on their feet with KS Dance Academy Showcase (13:30, 11 Jun). And Scotland’s premier all-female mumming troupe, The Meadows Mummers present a feminised pastiche of Shakespeare’s play within a play with The Not-So-Rude Mechanicals (14:30, 11 Jun). 

Emerging theatre company Resilience Theatre Movement preview their 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe offering on Sunday afternoon. Former friends and roommates, Annie and Frances haven’t spoken to each other in more than a year. But sparks fly when Frances shows up at Annie’s door drunk and demanding to talk in Waiting for Champagne (15:30, 11 Jun).

And emerging playwright Kate Macsween demonstrates the power of words in Letters from Holloway (17:00, 11 Jun), a story inspired by the women and young offenders incarcerated at Holloway Prison. 

2023’s StagEHd Festival closes on Sunday evening with an adaptation of one of Molière’s famous comedies, The Bourgeois Gentleman.

Presented by The Mirror of Stage | Lustro SCENY, Edinburgh’s bilingual English and Polish theatre company, Molière’s Garden Party (18:00, 11 Jun) is a funny yet thoughtful play that unravels the absurdity of human nature.

Supported by the Edinburgh Graduate Theatre Group and The National Lottery Awards for All Scotland Fund, StagEHd Festival is an open-access, free-to-attend, two-day celebration of Edinburgh’s performing arts. 

StagEHd 2023 will take place at the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens West on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June. Entry to the festival is free with a bucket collection at the end of each performance, with 100% of the proceeds being shared amongst the artists performing. 

To find out more about the festival, and to book your free tickets, visit www.stagehdfestival.com. 

The Batmobile arrives at St James Quarter for Comic Con this weekend

St James Quarter has revealed that the Batman’s iconic Batmobile will be parked on Register Square on the 6th and 7th May for Comic Con. Comic fans will have a chance to get their picture taken with the famous vehicle, which is based on the classic version from the 1989 film.

And that’s not all, Ghostbuster fans will get an opportunity to pose and take a picture with the legendary Ecto-1 Car which will be situated at the Multrees entrance at St James Quarter.

As well as endless picture opportunities, Comic fans will get the chance to meet their favourite superheroes and comic stars, including Spider Man, Shrek and Pikachu. Attendees will also learn about the world of comic books from the experts, with special guest appearances from the likes of Jim Alexander, Monty Nero and Art of Fish who have all written or drawn for Marvel, DC and 2000 AD.

There will also be interactive workshops including a slime making session the kids will love, as well as mask making workshop where guests can step into the shoes of their favourite superhero and create their own iconic look.

Comic Con is encouraging guests to get involved in the action and take part in its renowned cosplay competition on Saturday 6th May at 3:20pm where a first-place trophy and cash prize is up for grabs.

Kicking off from 10am on Saturday, the B3 car park will be transformed into a hub of activity, courtesy of the Big Glasgow Comic Page, featuring everything from comic book and memorabilia sellers and workshops to props and gaming.

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter said: “Don’t miss out on the ultimate celebration of superheroes and villains at St James Quarter this weekend. With a diverse range of attractions including the Batmobile, cosplay competitions, merchandise vendors, comic characters, and interactive workshops, there’s something for everyone.

“We cannot wait to welcome you all to Comic Con this weekend!”

For more information visit the BGCP Comic Con event page.

¡SALUD! Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and Patron raise a glass to Cinco de Mayo and it’s Courtyard launch

Eve, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s all day dining venue, is excited to announce the grand launch of its Courtyard in partnership with Patrón Tequila – one of the world’s leading tequila brands.   

The launch will coincide with the beloved Cinco de Mayo celebration, taking place tomorrow (Friday, 5th May) between 5pm-10pm followed by an entire weekend of thrilling festivities on the Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th May between 3pm – 10pm.  

The Eve Courtyard is set to be a haven of blissful entertainment and delight, offering guests the opportunity to relax in the warm glow of the sun while sipping on tantalizing tequila creations and indulging in traditional Mexican small plates, known as ‘Botanas’, curated exclusively for the Courtyard launch.  

Patrón Tequila has transformed the Courtyard into a homage to its Mexican roots and tequila-making tradition, providing an exclusive food menu that includes Lamb Shoulder Barbacoa Taco and Smoked Mushroom Taco. We will also provide a selection of Margarita and Paloma cocktails crafted with Patrón Silver, offering guests the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style.  

As the sun sets and the stars come out, the Courtyard will come alive with the sounds of live music from Los Chichanos and Pilgrims Society, two vibrant and energetic bands that bring the party to Edinburgh’s late-night fiestas. With performances all weekend long, they will elevate guests’ experience with an unforgettable soundtrack to their weekend.   

There will also be pinatas bursting with prizes and Mexican bingo for some friendly competition, to name but a few. Plus, Patrón popcorn and frozen cocktails will be on offer to keep guests cool and refreshed.   

David Moth, Virgin Hotels Vice President of Operations and Interim General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “We are thrilled to bring the vibrant spirit of Mexico to life at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh with our Eve Courtyard launch event in partnership with Patrón for Cinco de Mayo. 

“It’s an exciting celebration with delicious cocktails and food that will transport guests to the flavours of Mexico. But that’s not all – we have surprises and delights planned all weekend, including the chance to win an overnight luxury stay in Sir Richard Branson’s flat. It’s going to be a weekend filled with fun, festivities, and unforgettable experiences.”  

For more information about Eve’s Courtyard, please visit:
https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/event/cinco-de-mayo/all/ 

Cinco de Mayo is just one of many events hosted Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is hosting. Eve will be host of many seasonal activations and brand takeovers throughout the year with Patron taking over the Eve Courtyard for the next 3 months of summer. To stay up to date with the latest news and events, follow Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s Eve channels on social media here:  

  • Instagram @eveedinburgh 
    @virginhotelsedi 
  • Twitter@virginhotelsedi 

Laser Clinics UK opens in Edinburgh 

Leader in aesthetic treatments Laser Clinics UK has announced it will be opening a clinic this April in  Hanover Street naming Edinburgh as a priority destination for its ambitious UK expansion.  

Laser Clinics is the largest cosmetic clinic company globally, offering state-of-the-art laser hair  removal, vascular and pigmentation therapy as well as skin treatments, LED light enhancement and  cosmetic injectables. It has over 200 stores globally and with an ambition to take the brand and  services to over 100 destinations across the UK. 

A spokesperson for Laser Clinics United Kingdom said, “We are very much looking forward to opening a clinic in Edinburgh. We assess all our locations carefully and it has always been a key destination in our expansion plans, we feel that we have found the ideal location at Hanover Street. 

“We are already starting to build our team and would welcome applications from therapists already  skilled in laser hair removal and skin treatments. At Laser Clinics we recognise that many of our services offer life changing benefits to our clients. Our Therapists and Clinicians often provide interventions that positively contribute to greater wellbeing, improved self-esteem and confidence.” 

Laser Clinics United Kingdom, Edinburgh will offer the following services: 

• Laser Hair Removal – Laser Hair Removal permanently reduces hair so you don’t have to waste time shaving, leaving you ready at a moment’s notice. Laser Clinics have treatments suitable for all skin types and offer complimentary consultations.  

• Skin Treatments – Revitalise your skin by targeting any area – wrinkles, veins, pigmentation, acne or scarring, or simply create a more radiant complexion. Enhance, rejuvenate, refresh your skin with a range of non-invasive, professional treatments. 

• Cosmetic Injectables – Wrinkles and volume loss are a natural part of the ageing process – as our skin gets thinner and our body decreases its production of natural collagen and elastin. 

From dermal fillers to anti-wrinkle treatments, lip filler to chin sculpting, the experienced team at Laser Clinics can provide a tailored treatment plan to deliver on your aesthetic goals. Laser Clinics United Kingdom, Edinburgh will be located at 16 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EN.

Edinburgh welcomes arrival of Summer with Beltane Fire Festival

THOUSANDS of revellers gathered on Calton Hill last night to take part in an ancient Celtic ritual to welcome the arrival of the summer months of the year.

The Beltane Fire Festival has become a cultural staple in Edinburgh and is one of Scotland’s most popular events.

The festival, led by the May Queen and her court, included a spectacular fire show set against the night sky.

Organisers estimate that more than eight thousand people watched the Calton Hill spectacle and, despite the initial ‘cloud-kissed’ beginnings, the sky cleared up beautifully and gave way to an extraordinary and spectacular event!

Copyright Ross Cameron for Beltane Fire Society. All Rights Reserved. www.beltane.org / www.facebook.com/beltanefiresociety

Festival Coordinator Tom Watton said: “It’s such an achievement that so many dedicated volunteers come together to keep this beautiful festival alive. Once again the community and our loyal audiences came together to toast the Earth and mark the turning of the year.”

The modern Beltane Festival has been running since 1988 and is the spring/summer counterpart to the Samhuinn Fire Festival which is held in the city centre on 31 October. The events are ‘modern re-imaginings’ of ancient Celtic festivals to mark the turning seasons.

The Beltane Fire Society is a charity run by volunteers, dedicated to marking the fire festivals of the ancient Celtic calendar and keeping traditional Scottish skills of street theatre, music and pageantry alive.

PICTURES: James Armandry (top) and Ross Cameron

Coronation to be screened live in Princes Street Gardens

West Princes Street Gardens will host a special free screening in the Capital to mark the Coronation of HM The King.

On Saturday 6 May, Edinburgh’s screening will coincide with celebrations taking place around the country as the nation marks the crowning of the King alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort, with a special extended bank holiday weekend.

The ceremony, which is taking place at Westminster Abbey in London, is scheduled to begin at 11am but access to the screening area will open from 10am. Entry is free and un-ticketed.

On Sunday 7 May, the screen will remain in place and broadcast The Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle to spectators in the Gardens. The Coronation Concert will bring global music icons and contemporary stars together in celebration of the historic occasion.

As a new Royal era begins, residents are also invited to share their memories and record well wishes for the new sovereign from Tuesday 2 May in the online Book of Congratulations. Physical books will also be available at the City Chambers and Central Library from Tuesday 2 May until Tuesday 9 May from 10am until 5pm. 

In his role as His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge will be representing the City of Edinburgh at the proceedings in London.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “The Coronation of King Charles is a truly historic event and we’re proud to be joining in with screenings and services in towns and cities across the United Kingdom for those who wish to come together and celebrate the occasion.

“Watching the ceremony and celebrations on the big screen will be a great way for people to be involved and soak up the atmosphere of the extraordinary weekend.”

The big screen has been supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. 

People are encouraged to bring their own picnics, however the Scott’s café will be open and can provide take-away food and beverages.

The screening will take place outdoors, so we are advising those wishing to attend to plan ahead, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water. Toilet facilities will be available and there will be limited seats so we advise bringing blankets or chairs. Extra litter bins will be in place and BBQs will not be permitted.  

To mark HM The King’s Coronation, communities and citizens have applied for street closures to celebrate this historic event.

Ross bandstand

National activities
There are also number of national initiatives taking place with residents encouraged to gather and it’s hoped Coronation Big Lunches and The Big Help Out will bring communities together over the weekend.

Coronation Big Lunch

The Coronation Big Lunch on 7 May is designed to bring neighbours and communities together to share friendship, food and fun and be part of history.

More detail on getting involved is available on the Coronation Big Lunch website.

The Big Help Out

Bank holiday Monday 8 May will see a nationwide initiative to raise awareness of the value and impact of volunteering.

It is an opportunity to explore how rewarding volunteering can be. You can get involved and find out how you can make a difference in your community.

There will be lots of different kinds of opportunities, with many of the UK’s leading volunteer charities supporting the initiative. More detail is available on The Big Help Out website. 

Johnnie Walker Princes Street celebrates Deaf Awareness Week with BSL-supported Whisky Tasting

Tickets are now available for the special whisky experience with support from Deaf Action

To mark Deaf Awareness Week (1-7 May 2023), Johnnie Walker Princes St, Edinburgh’s Five Star Whisky Attraction, has created a new edition of one of its most popular whisky tasting experiences, with assistance from British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters from Deaf Action.

Taking place on May 5 2023, guests will enjoy a specially curated 90-minute tasting led by a whisky specialist, alongside a BSL interpreter with the support of Deaf Action. The Whisky Explorers: British Sign Language Edition will offer those using BSL a chance to enjoy a specially curated sensory experience at the venue, which was recently named the Best Whisky Experience in the World by Whisky Magazine.

Guests will be taken on a 90-minute exploration of Scotland’s liquid landscape, sampling a stunning collection of drams from iconic regions including Islay, the Highlands and Speyside. They will also have the opportunity to savour a very special Lowland grain whisky, exclusive to Johnnie Walker Princes Street.

Building an inclusive and modern visitor experience has been a core focus of Johnnie Walker Princes Street from its inception, and this new experience is the start of regular opportunities for the deaf community created by the team. The business worked with Euan’s Guide to ensure the building and its various experiences are fully accessible, and the venue is fitted with an induction loop system for those who use hearing aids.

This new tutored tasting which is due to be rolled out throughout the year, is another stride forward for the world-renowned experience’s inclusivity goals. Johnnie Walker has worked closely with Deaf Action and a native BSL using consultant to ensure the experience is tailored to the needs of deaf BSL users and those hard of hearing.

Tony Bradford, Johnnie Walker Princes Street experience team, said: “We have worked closely with groups and charity organisations since before our doors were even open to ensure we are as accessible and welcoming to all communities.

“From offering complimentary tickets for carers, as well as the installation of our ground floor Changing Places toilet, we pride ourselves on being able to cater for guests who may have different access requirements.

“It’s been brilliant working with the Deaf Action team to create this bespoke, top-notch whisky experience for those using BSL. No stone has been left unturned in our planning for the Whisky Explorers: British Sign language Edition, and we look forward to continuing our journey to ensure Johnnie Walker Princes Street can be enjoyed by all.”

Lauren McAnna, Community Services Manager at Deaf Action, said: “In today’s world, businesses must be aware of the various markets they are catering for, and Johnnie Walker Princes Street have done just that by developing its Whisky Explorers: British Sign language Edition.

“The commitment from the team to making this the best experience possible for those using BSL, has been extremely heartening, and we look forward to continuing the relationship and creating more experiences for deaf and hard of hearing groups going forward.”

Tickets will include 10% off other retail purchases of up to £250 as well as for drinks in the bar on the day of the experience, and for up to 7 days afterwards (T&Cs apply). To redeem, guests must show their confirmation ticket to a member of staff at the till. 

For more information and to book an experience, please visit: 

www.johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com

Fringe Society wants South Bridge Resource Centre to become new Fringe Community Hub

NEXT Tuesday (25th April), the City Council’s Finance and Resource Committee will consider Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society’s request for approval to progress to formal discussions for a long-term lease of the South Bridge Resource Centre as the preferred location for a new Fringe Community Hub. 

The building in Infirmary Street has been identified for a variety of reasons, with its proximity to the existing footprint of the Fringe a key consideration.  

Canongate Youth community group who reside there have been receptive to the idea of the Fringe Society working to improve the building and make it more accessible; by securing and maintaining the space for community and cultural use.  

It is proposed that Canongate Youth remain a tenant of the building, and other small arts and cultural organisations may also be offered the opportunity to co-exist, creating a vibrant, mixed use community space for all and a hub for the Fringe Society’s services and team during August and year-round.

South Bridge Resource Centre is also a popular central location for adult education classes.

First identified within the 2017 Fringe Blueprint, the proposed development of a new, year-round space for artists and creatives across the Fringe landscape, has been made possible due to funding from the UK Government, announced during the 2023 Spring Budget. 

The announcement followed many meetings with Ministers and officials from various departments, during which the Fringe Society advocated for a range of support across several key areas. 

The Fringe Society continue to use their convening power to lobby for additional financial support for artists and venues, with funding for the new community hub fully ringfenced against a capital investment to meet the Levelling Up agenda.  

Since the announcement, Fringe Society Chief Executive, and Chair, have asked whether some of this fund might be apportioned to other areas of the Fringe in crucial need of support; such as direct to participants via the new Keep it Fringe Fund. 

To date there has been no indication that this investment can be allocated to something outwith the capital investment project.

If approved by the Council to enter into formal discussions, the Fringe Society will produce a detailed business case to present to UK Government, with full costings on development of the proposed hub. 

These elements will include any structural changes required to maximise the space, a detailed breakdown of what facilities may be available, and what will be required to make the building fully accessible and sustainable for the long term.

All current services and usage of the Resource Centre will continue ‘as-is’ while this work is progressing and there will be no interruption to the Fringe 2023 operations for Greenside Venues.  

In order to ensure the new hub meets the needs of its many user groups and all those within the Fringe community, consultation will be undertaken over the coming months and during this year’s festival with artists, producers, educators, community groups and industry bodies.

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: “Following the UK Budget announcement of funding for this project, there has been understandable interest and comment on where, when and how the new Fringe community hub will be created. 

“Next week marks the next step in this process, with an ask to the City of Edinburgh Council that we enter into formal discussions about the space on Infirmary Street.  This is very much a long-term project and one that will take a few years to establish.

“We are excited at the prospect of revitalising an important city centre space that has such an established history with the Fringe through Greenside, and a vital hub for the excellent work with young people and communities that has been the hallmark of Canongate Youth.

“The conversion of this space into a year-round Fringe community hub will allow local cultural organisation, artists and our community partners, the opportunity to utilise this space too. 

“In the long-term it will allow a permanent home for our August participants hub, known as Fringe Central, for whom artists, arts industry, media and international delegates access each summer for a range of workshops, networking and industry events. 

“We look forward to working with colleagues at the Council as plans for this space evolve as well as deepening existing and building new relationships with community groups in the City’.

Tara and Darren, Greenside Venue Directors, said: ‘The possibility of losing Infirmary Street has loomed over us for some time as when we started our journey, we were told that it was not a permanent option, and while its reality is undeniably bittersweet, we find solace in knowing that this beautiful, historic building will remain an integral part of the Fringe landscape for many years to come. 

“Today’s announcement does not affect our operations in 2023. We have been meticulously planning for this moment, ensuring a seamless transition to ensure we can continue to provide a welcoming Fringe home for almost 200 shows every year across our venues. 

“Greenside is excited about our future and we look forward to embracing the new opportunities that lie ahead. We have ambitious and exciting plans for Fringe 2024 and beyond, and we eagerly anticipate sharing more details with you in the near future’.

Clare Jamieson, Canongate Youth Manager said: “We are delighted to be involved in early-stage conversations around the future of South Bridge Resource Centre with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.

“The building has huge potential, and we welcome the opportunity to explore this further, and most importantly how future developments could benefit children and young people who use CY services and the wider local community”. 

The Fringe Society recognise the challenging environment that currently exists for artists and venues and are continuing to lobby and advocate for greater support across a range of areas, including the recently launched Keep it Fringe fund.   

The Fringe Society have asked DCMS for further support for Fringe participants and continue to lobby for this from non-capital funds. 

With just weeks until the launch of the full 2023 programme, the Fringe Society’s focus remains on supporting the artists and creatives coming to Edinburgh for this year’s Fringe, and in helping audiences navigate through the array of work available.

What’s on at Divino in April 

Edinburgh Restaurant Named Venue in AA Restaurant Guide 2023

Award-winning Italian restaurant Divino has just been named a top destination in the prestigious AA Restaurant Guide 2023.

There are some great events happening at Divino this month, all offer a unique night out and a fun way to get together with friends or family and enjoy great food and wine without the need for a special occasion to celebrate!

Veneto Regional Menu Nights – April 20th and 27th – Chef Andrea has developed a three-course menu with canapés, mains and petit fours for £39 celebrating the northern region known for its fresh seafood and famous cicchetti. Guests can add paired wines for an additional £26.

Sardinia Wine Night – April 30th – Featuring 5 fabulous wines from the island of Sardinia paired with matching canapes, guests at Divino will experience the rich & complex flavours of the region for just £25 beginning at 5pm.

Wednesday Jazz Nights – Every single Wednesday, enjoy live jazz from 7:30pm onwards, the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine and good company.

Events can be booked here. 

Beltane Fire Festival to ignite the Scottish summer once again 

Edinburgh’s cultural staple, Beltane Fire Festival will be returning to Calton Hill on Sunday 30th April 2023. 

Beltane Fire Festival is a living, breathing re-interpretation and modernisation of an ancient Iron Age Celtic ritual and is the largest of its kind, bringing people from all over the world to join and revel in the birth of Summer and the fertility of the land since 1988. Join us for an immersive Celtic experience, more spectacular and expansive than ever before!

This year’s festival will tell the traditional tales of The Procession of the May Queen and The Death and Re-Birth of The Green Man from a unique and exciting perspective; revellers will be surrounded by fire-play, acrobatics, drummers, dancers, clowns, musicians, actors, puppeteers, artists, poets, crafters, curious and mysterious characters and even cats! 

Edinburgh’s Beltane celebrations are the largest of their kind and have attracted crowds of around 10,000 people from all across the globe. 

Festival Co-ordinator Tom Watton said: “It is an honour to facilitate all of the hard work and dedication of the Beltane volunteers; who over the last ten weeks, have been busy preparing for another spectacular one of a kind fire festival. Come and join us this year as raise the Beltane toast: to the earth our mother and the fire our host!” 

“Join us at the end of the month, celebrate the turning of the wheel, and revel in the beginnings of Summer! “

Tickets for the Beltane Fire Festival are available from Citizen Tickets here. 

http://ctzn.tk/Beltane23