Film lovers in Edinburgh are now able to experience the latest upgrades in big screen entertainment as Vue Edinburgh Omni completes its major refurbishment project, installing luxury recliner seating in all 12 screens onsite.
Set within the Edinburgh Omni Shopping Centre in the heart of the Scottish capital, the eagerly awaited transformation includes 976 luxury leather recliner seats – all of which come complete with a fold away table and cup holder.
Customers can escape to luxury while enjoying the latest blockbuster releases this December, including Wonka and Aquaman: The Lost Kingdom in 4k quality and Digital Dolby surround site.
To mark the launch of Wonka, the cinema chain has also launched a limited-edition Bubblegum Tango Ice Blast flavour, as well as installing an exclusive Wonka themed backdrop – perfect for capturing a sweet selfie with family and friends during a visit to Vue Edinburgh Omni.
The recent completion of Edinburgh Omni means both Vue sites, including Vue Edinburgh Ocean, are now fully installed with luxury recliner seatings – providing premium comfort for film fans to get lost in the big screen entertainment.
Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “We are thrilled to unveil our brand new luxury recliner seating across all 12 screens on site – the transformation will allow film fans to enjoy a fantastic trip to the big screen in the best seats possible.
“Our customers can expect to enjoy the very best in big screen entertainment including the latest blockbusters, classic titles and the best in live music, sport and theatre, all from the comfort of our signature recliner seating.”
Tickets are available now, with every film, every day available from £7.99 when booked online. More information and tickets are available at:
The artworks of twenty-four young budding artists were celebrated at Edinburgh’s Christmas this week as children from fifteen local schools received recognition for their festive Winter Window designs.
The Winter Windows are on display at Edinburgh’s Christmas Festival of Kindness in St Andrew Square and along the top walkway of West Princes Street Gardens.
Pupils from schools across Edinburgh and Midlothian were invited to submit their festive frescos and wintery works of art through their schools, from which twenty-four were selected to be displayed at Edinburgh’s Christmas and featured on the event’s social channels.
Designs featured a myriad of Christmas accoutrements, including elves and angels, Christmas trees and snowmen, as well as city landscapes of Edinburgh Castle, and one particularly jolly owl!
The winning artists and their family were invited to a prizegiving on Wednesday 13 December where they received a certificate of congratulations from Carol Tuzun of City of Edinburgh Council, and were invited for an afternoon of fun at Edinburgh’s Christmas including unlimited rides at the Festive Family Funfair.
The full list of winning artists (arranged by school) are:
Fola Olaniyi
Nursery
Canal View Primary School
Fareedah Alagbe
Nursery
Canal View Primary School
Louisa Lu
S3
Castlebrae Community Campus
Christina Zaloni-Noulas
P5
Dean Park Primary School
Aria Enwood
P3
Granton Primary School
Noemi Obara
P3
Granton Primary School
Ruby Bremner
P4
Granton Primary School
Leena Bahemia
P4
Liberton Primary School
Zuzanna Kasperczuk
P6
Liberton Primary School
Olivia Fuentes Granadero
P1
Parsons Green Primary School
Alasdair Robertson
P2
Preston Street Primary School
Aiden Dunleavey
P5
Royal High Primary School
Natalia Rafa
P5
St David’s RC Primary School
Zofia Berdys
P5
St David’s RC Primary School
Diddy Aravantinou
P6
St John’s Primary School
Michael Williams
P6
St John’s Primary School
Cassie Griffith
P3
St Mark’s Primary School
Finlay McDonald
P3
St Mary’s RC Primary School
Annabelle Greene
P3
St Mary’s RC Primary School
Ruan Byrne
P4
St Ninian’s RC Primary School
Hannah Capes
P4
St Ninian’s RC Primary School
Emily Fortune
P5
Wardie Primary School
Esme Martin
P5
Wardie Primary School
Braxton Williams
S1
Wester Hailes High School
Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education, Children and Families Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said:“A huge congratulations to all Winter Windows winners. It’s wonderful to see young budding artists recognised for their festive displays which will bring joy to so many over the next few weeks!”
The Winter Windows will be displayed at Edinburgh’s Christmas until Saturday 6 January 2024 and can be viewed at St Andrew Square and along the top walkway of West Princes Street Gardens.
For further information and tickets to Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions please visit www.edinburgh-christmas.com.
Officers in Edinburgh have released images of a man they would like to speak to as part of an ongoing investigation into an incident that involved vandalism within St Andrew Square.
The incident happened at about 4.50pm last Saturday (9 December, 2023).
The man in the images is described as white and aged between 20 – 30 years old with short brown hair. He was wearing a flat cap, knee-length coat, blue jeans and carrying a backpack.
Anyone who can help in identifying and tracing the man should report this to Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2618 of 9 December, 2023.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO ANNOUNCES FIRST ACT FOR 2024
Not content with the traditional festive 12 drummers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is upping the stakes with 30 drummers set to perform as part of Majesticks Drum Corps next year
The announcement follows an incredible 2023 Show run, with a host of performers dazzling the capital throughout last August
Swiss drumming group, Majesticks Drum Corps, has been announced as the first act set to wow crowds when The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns to the Castle Esplanade in 2024.
The dynamic drumline will bring its precision drill routine to the capital and serve as a showcase of the extraordinary skills of around 30 drummers, entertaining audiences with incredible timing, showmanship, and a touch of humour.
Formed in 2011, the Swiss drumming sensation has wowed crowds across the world, including in France, Germany and Malta but will make its Tattoo debut at next year’s Journeys performance.
Majesticks aim to offer visually attractive and innovative presentations in their performances, using a mix of special effects and original staging which ensures a spectacular and memorable performance for Tattoo fans.
Next year’s routine is expected to be a vibrant offering which treads the line between modernity and tradition. The music and all aspects of the display are composed by members of the group, who will be using a selection of snare drums, bass drums and cymbals.
The first act announcement follows a triumphant Show run throughout August for the Tattoo and almost a quarter of a million guests set to enjoy a celebration of the art of journeys at next year’s performance.
Tickets are already on sale, in time to make the perfect Christmas gift that offers a unique experience that will provide memories for years to come.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The bar’s set incredibly high when it comes to acts for the Tattoo so it’s imperative that we work with those that are of the highest standard.
“That’s something that can certainly be said for the Majesticks Drum Corps, who I can’t wait to see as part of Journeys next year.
“Known for their incredible precision drill, they’re sure to set the Esplanade alight, delighting audiences with unbelievable displays of skill and smooth transitions as the group swap drumsticks and change drums in a mesmerising display.
“I’d encourage people to snap up their tickets quickly and keep an eye out for the next acts to be announced as I can assure you, you don’t want to miss out.”
This year, the Show saw 56 Tattoo dancers and 240 Pipers and Drummers take to the Castle Esplanade to tell their story, with 168 dance shoes worn – three pairs per dancer – and 340 drumsticks banged against 170 drums.
Ludovic Frochaux, Artistic Director of Majesticks Drum Corps, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing our electric and dynamic performance to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2024 and look forward to performing for audiences on the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
“Audiences should pay close attention to the way our performers display precision in their marching and drumming skills and keep their ears open to appreciate all that our performance has to offer.”
The 2024 Show, Journeys, will transport audiences on an international cultural journey, bringing together the voices and stories that connect the worldwide cultures of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. With the Royal Navy taking on the role of lead service, the Show will be a journey through time, celebrating the tides of change.
Journeys will continue to share the tales of performers and acts from around the globe, developing the theme through visual storytelling and taking audiences on a journey of imagination, wonder and amazement.
To purchase tickets for next summer’s Show, please visit edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or call 0131 225 1188.
Royal Bank of Scotland is joining forces with Social Bite to host a Christmas dinner for people who’ve experienced homelessness. The bank will be opening the boardroom at St Andrew’s Square in Edinburgh and welcoming those Social Bite and the bank have supported this year.
It is part of the bank’s long-term support for the work Social Bite is doing to end homelessness. Since 2016, Royal Bank has supported Social Bite through donations, gifts-in-kind, and strategic help totalling over £1million.
Royal Bank employees have raised more than £100,000 through sponsored sleepouts, abseils and Christmas appeals.
Taking place on 19 December 2023, those attending include residents and staff from Social Bite’s Village in Edinburgh, run in partnership with Cyrenians to provide a supported community which helps people affected by homelessness to lead an independent life. Social Bite plans to open two new Villages in South Lanarkshire and Dundee over the next two years.
This Christmas, the bank is also supporting Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness which will provide meals, gifts and essentials for people who are homeless at Christmas and throughout the winter, alongside homes and jobs.
Josh Littlejohn MBE, Co-Founder of Social Bite, said: “We are so grateful for Royal Bank’s support.
“They have played a key part in a number of transformational projects helping people break the cycle of homelessness, and it is really special that they have created this Christmas experience for the residents of the Village.”
Judith Cruickshank, Chair of the Royal Bank of Scotland Board, said: “Building on our long-term support for Social Bite we are helping to make Christmas a little more enjoyable for some of the most vulnerable.”
Family-owned luxury jewellers, Laings, has announced plans to open a second TAG Heuer boutique in Scotland, which will be situated in the prime luxury retail location of Multrees Walk in Edinburgh.
The new store, opening in Spring 2024, follows the successful launch of Scotland’s first mono-brand TAG boutique, which opened on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street in September.
The new store further solidifies Laings continued commitment to a bricks and mortar presence and its strive to create the very best, personal customer experiences.
The new showroom, which will span more than 100 m², will create several new jobs for the local area, across various roles including managerial positions and client advisors.
Stuart McDowell, managing director of Laings said: “The proposed opening of a second store marks the latest milestone in the exciting evolution of our relationship with TAG Heuer and demonstrates the luxury brand’s commitment to fully establishing its presence in Scotland.
“With a wealth of collections on display, we are looking forward to welcoming clients into our Edinburgh showroom next year. Whether it be their first venture into luxury Swiss watches or extending a growing passion for TAG Heuer, our clients will be offered a truly exceptional immersive experience.”
Rob Diver, managing director of TAG Heuer UK and Ireland said: “Following the opening of our first boutique in Glasgow this year with Laings, we look forward to further strengthening our new and valued partnership with the esteemed jeweller, and extending the TAG Heuer offering to clients in the Scottish capital, where we are confident TAG Heuer will receive an equally warm reception among the clients.”
The showroom will include an interactive display area showcasing cutting-edge technology, as well as a luxurious lounge, allowing clients to shop in comfort as well as style – along with the usual level of privacy and confidentiality, which has become synonymous with Laings.
The opening of the Edinburgh boutique is part of Laings’ wider multi-million pound investment to build on its legacy as a leading destination for luxury jewellery and watches.
Ken Currie’s Unknown Man, a portrait of the preeminent forensic anthropologist, Professor Dame Sue Black, has been acquired by the National Galleries of Scotland.
This arresting portrait has been on long loan to the gallery since 2021 but has now been secured for the nation permanently. This acquisition ensures the continued enjoyment of this poignant work, currently available to view for free at the Portrait gallery.
Unknown Man depicts one of the most distinguished, internationally famous contemporary Scots, Professor Black. Currie’s large-scale painting shows her in surgical robes standing behind the covered remains of a body.
The idea for the portrait grew when Currie and Professor Black met during a BBC Radio 4 discussion on the relationship between art and anatomy.
Currie later visited the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification at the University of Dundee, where Professor Black was Director. The artist was so moved by the work he encountered there that he asked her to sit for a portrait.
The title Unknown Man was given by Currie and relates to the essential aim of a forensic anthropologist – to identify remains and restore the identity of the deceased – while also referencing the covered body depicted in the painting.
Currie bestows Professor Black with the qualities of impassivity and sternness in his portrait. She stands, stock still and full-face, arms spread equally, holding the trolley before her. Professor Black wears dull blue scrubs and before her, under the dark green shroud, is stretched the most minimal or rudimentary indication of the corpse – which could be said to be the attribute of her profession.
Artist Ken Currie (born 1960) is renowned for his unsettling portrayal of the human figure, often large-scale, dramatic canvasses of startling originality.
His work prompts powerful responses as he deals with difficult, profound themes through figurative paintings which are carefully considered and painstakingly executed.
Currie’s subjects often emerge from darkness, suggesting fearful dramas which are all the more disturbing because so much is suggested but not explicitly articulated.
Currie also has another much-loved work in the national collection, Three Oncologists. This 2002 painting depicts three professors who were leading innovators in cancer research at the University of Dundee and its affiliated teaching hospital, Ninewells.
It shows the three, emerging from the darkness as modern-day heroes, battling on our behalf on the front line between life and death. Currie regards Unknown Man as being connected to Three Oncologists, and a progression from this work.
With both works currently on display in The Modern Portrait exhibition, visitors have a special opportunity to experience both in the same space. Unknown Man gives rise to strong feelings and emotions. Professor Black had a visibly emotional reaction when she saw the painting for the first time in 2021.
Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries ofScotland said: “We are delighted to have acquired this powerful and moving work which has already generated a lot of interest and comment from our visitors.
“The Portrait gallery provides the perfect setting for this outstanding painting which now has a permanent home alongside other images of pioneers in the fields of science, sport and the arts.”
Professor Sue Black, said: “It was such a wonderful experience to work with Ken and I am so grateful that the portrait has been so well received even if it is a bit scary!
“I feel honoured that this has been acquired by the National Galleries of Scotland and secured for the nation permanently. It all feels more than a little surreal.”
Ken Currie, said: “I am delighted that Unknown Man has been acquired by the National Galleries of Scotland and will continue to hang in the Portrait gallery where it will hopefully inspire a new generation of young women to follow in the illustrious footsteps of Sue Black.”
Jenny Waldman, Director of Art Fund, said: “I’m so pleased that Art Fund has been able to support the National Galleries of Scotland to acquire this important painting.
“I am sure that it will continue to delight and inspire visitors to the Portrait gallery for many years to come.”
The National Galleries of Scotland has announced that its blockbuster exhibition, Grayson Perry: Smash Hits, was visited almost 100,000 times in its four-month run. Since opening on 15 July, 95,852 visits were booked to enjoy the celebration of Sir Grayson Perry’s 40-year career at the National (Royal Scottish Academy) before it closed on Sunday 12 November.
On show exclusively in Edinburgh, Grayson Perry: Smash Hits explored the remarkable 40-year career of contemporary cultural icon, Sir Grayson Perry.
Visitors were able to enjoy over eighty works, including richly detailed tapestries, subversive pots and elaborate plates – some of which were on public display for the first time.
Developed in close collaboration with the artist, the exhibition renounced the tradition for chronological displays. Instead, Perry’s work was presented as a journey through themes including masculinity, sexuality, class, religion, politics and identity.
Grayson Perry: Smash Hits was the National Galleries of Scotland’s most visited exhibition in over ten years, and the fourth most visited since the reopening of the refurbished exhibition galleries in the RSA building in 2003.
Surpassing all expectations, over 10,000 people were welcomed in the first two weeks alone. The final weekend, which offered extended opening hours to allow as many people as possible to experience the exhibition, with over 2,200 visitors each day.
Home to Scotland’s superb art collection, the National Galleries of Scotland operates three galleries in Edinburgh.
At the National visitors can discover treasures from Botticelli to Titian, as well as the world’s largest collection of works by artists from Scotland. The Portrait gallery is packed with famous faces from history and contemporary portraits of pop culture icons, while Modern showcases the very best modern art.
As well as conserving and researching the national collection, the National Galleries of Scotland is committed to reaching the widest possible audience through an active programme, including partnerships across Scotland, the UK and abroad, as well as online.
Visitors enjoyed sharing their experience of Grayson Perry: Smash Hits with feedback captured by National Galleries Scotland throughout the duration of the exhibition. Some notable takeaways included:
“So accessible. I loved his commentaries. It is the only exhibition I have ever been to and laughed out loud.”
“I have never been to an exhibition where almost all of the visitors were smiling and laughing.”
“This was the best, most thought-provoking exhibition I’ve been to in years!”
Sir Grayson Perrysaid: “It was one of the most enjoyable and proud exhibiting experiences of my career. Many thanks to the brilliant team at the National Galleries of Scotland and the people of Scotland!”
Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland,said: “Welcoming almost 100,000 visitors to Grayson Perry: Smash Hits is a significant and proud moment for the National Galleries of Scotland.
“It has been a privilege from the start to work with Sir Grayson Perry in bringing this phenomenal exhibition to the people of Scotland. The response from our visitors, through their verbal and written feedback, photos they’ve shared and online engagement, has been incredible to witness.
“My congratulations and thanks to Sir Grayson – it has been smashing!’
Police in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City 2023 to keep everyone visiting, living and working in the city safe over the festive period.
Running between 17 November 2023 and 6 January 2024, dedicated officers will carry out high visibility patrols throughout the city centre to engage with the public and offer reassurance, deter criminal activity and respond to any incidents arising.
In addition to foot and mobile patrols, a “pop up” stall within Waverley Market will be in operation, with officers providing crime prevention and security advice.
Superintendent Sam Ainslie, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said: “As always we remain committed to keeping the public in Edinburgh safe and our presence within the city centre is enhanced over the festive period.
“We want locals and visitors alike to enjoy the various attractions safely, whether that be our green and cultural spaces, entertainment venues, or retail premises.
“In addition to our dedicated patrols, officers will also be at our police stall within the Waverley Mall and will be delighted to offer a range of crime prevention and security advice. I highly recommend that people come and speak to us”
“The public have a vital role to play in helping us to ensure that their and everyone’s visit is safe and enjoyable.
“Please help us to prevent crime by reporting anything they believe to be suspicious to us, and whilst it may seem overly simple, being mindful of the whereabouts of your personal belongings, planning your transportation for nights out in advance, making sure your mobile phone is charged, drinking responsibly and looking out for those you are out with, can all help.
“We want everyone to have an enjoyable night out, and I would ask that people remain aware of their limits when drinking, so as not to ruin their or someone else’s night out through over-consumption of alcohol.
“You will undoubtedly see our officers out on patrol, engaging with licensed premises staff and keeping Edinburgh’s communities safe
“Violent or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and on a cautionary note, should you become involved in a crime linked to alcohol, we can impose ‘Think Twice’ bail conditions, which will mean that you won’t be permitted to visit another pub, club or shop that sells alcohol in the city centre until the conclusion of your trial. Please don’t take the risk.
“We will be sharing crime prevention and personal safety advice and updates on our activities, so please follow Edinburgh Police Division on Facebook or Twitter @Edinburgh Police.
“On behalf of everyone here in Edinburgh Division, I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
NEW STORYTELLING PROJECTIONS UNVEILED AT EDINBURGH CASTLE
The capital’s enchanting atmosphere was kicked up a notch this weekend as Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery officially opened to the public, welcoming visitors from across the country to experience the interactive light trail at Edinburgh Castle during a sell-out opening weekend.
Greeted with captivating tales and intriguing stories, this year’s brand-new show focuses on the magic, mystery and spectacular sorcery from Scotland’s past. With myths and legends, from fortune-telling runes and Tarot readings to the inner workings of the Portcullis Gate depicted through immersive light and sound displays, the winter spectacular wowed, conjuring a charming start to the festive season.
Officially opening this year’s event for its six-week run, local resident Andew Neilson joined the team behind Castle of Light to ‘switch-on’ the unique after-dark trail, after securing the coveted opportunity to light up the skyline as a winner of the Castle of Light mystery ticket trail which took place in the run up to the event.
In keeping with this year’s theme of ‘Magic and Mystery’, Castle of Light partnered with local attractions and venues to create a mysterious trail around the city, with the chance to win tickets along the way.
Andrew was travelling on a Lothian bus into the city when he saw the clues posted on social media and identified the world-renowned tapestry studio, Dovecot Studios, as one of the venues hiding a magic card.
He said: “I happened to be scrolling on social media and came across the mystery ticket trail, it was then I put the clues together and realised that the magic card was hidden in Dovecot Studios – and my bus was just around the corner. I hopped off the bus and managed to find one of the winning magic cards!
“It was truly special to be involved in lighting up Edinburgh’s iconic castle. People from all over the world celebrate Christmas and Hogmanay in Edinburgh with the castle at the centre of the celebrations. Cheers to a brilliant festive season!”
Now in its fourth year, Castle of Light is brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland and further afield, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland.
With 8,000 visitors attending during opening weekend to experience the spellbinding installations, Castle of Light is set to bring magic to locals and visitors alike throughout the festive season.
Stephen Duncan, Director of Marketing and Engagement at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which cares for Edinburgh Castle, said: “The festive period is all about magic, joy and wonder and we wanted to bring this to life through Castle of Light.
“Now in our fourth year, it’s important for us to keep the show fresh so that locals and visitors alike can be transported into a world of wonder as a tapestry of all-new storytelling projections dance across the castle walls. And Andrew did a tremendous job in helping us build excitement and anticipation at the switch-on for the six week event run ahead.
“Celebrating Scotland’s rich heritage by inviting visitors to step into a history lesson like no other, from reawakening William Wallace and King Robert the Bruce, to exploring the lesser-known parts of the Castle, Castle of Light is a magical evening for all ages and we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors this year.”
Castle of Light will light up the city’s skyline for six weeks throughout the festive season on select dates, until Wednesday 3 January 2024.
Tickets are available to purchase now (adult tickets: £22), with concession rates, family tickets and Historic Scotland members’ discounts available. Ticketed entry slots will run every 15 minutes between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening, with last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm. The event closes at 9pm.
Tickets for an ‘access night’ on Sunday 3 December are also available. Designed to cater for people with additional support needs, including autism and dementia, the evening will feature a range of specific support including British Sign Language interpretation, as well as a designated quiet space and ear defenders to help manage noise, in partnership with Scottish Autism.
