Week 2 at theSpaceUK: An exciting assortment of fresh shows

theSpaceUK is gearing up for a second week of Fringe, offering a hundred-plus shows ranging from theatre to cabaret to musicals

After an incredible opening week of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, we are thrilled to be going into week 2. Here’s just a taste of the exciting new shows that you can catch in Week 2 at theSpaceUK … 

Musicals & Operas

Fantasy World Adventures Mega Park! The Musical

(theSpace @ on the Mile, 17-29 August) Hot off the tracks from a 5-star debut, this hilarious original musical comedy will take you on the rollercoaster that is love, loss and being a constant disappointment to your parents.

Vote: The Musical
(theSpace Triplex, 17-23 August)

A bold new historical musical set in 1908 Britain, charting the rise of the suffragette movement. This urgent tribute confronts the past to ignite the present.

A Traitors Pantomime
(theSpace @ Niddry Street, 17-22 August)

Delight in all the melodrama we know and love, with some added panto pizzazz. A devious trio of traitors, a Romeo-and-Juliet love story, and a predictable parody (or two); this series will be unlike any other. 

Heracles: Of Men and Beasts
(theSpace @ Niddry Street, 17-29 August)

Acclaimed New Zealand theatre company’s international premiere of this powerful, original folk musical shedding new light on an ancient tale. Greek myth blended with 1940s Hollywood aesthetic through a groundbreaking live-looping musical landscape.

Trains in the Night
(theSpace @ Symposium Hall, 17-29 August)

A sapphic musical following best friends Celine and Margot, who teeter between love and fear. When life, lovers and timing pull them apart, the songs they leave unsung begin to tell the truth.

Music

Full Score Barbershop Choir Presents: Brace for Impact!
(theSpace Triplex, 17-22) 

Join Durham University’s award-winning barbershop choir for an a capella concert full of rich harmony arrangements of your favourite numbers! Featuring musical theatre, jazz, Disney and classic barbershop, there’s something for everyone!

Comedy

Not Black Enough
(theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 17-22 August) 

This show mines the depth of human identity while deftly exploring all sides. Who am I kidding? This show is just me proving how Black I am. Because I am so Black.

No Ducks Left To Give
(theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 17-22 August)

The University of York Dead Ducks are invited to a remote stately home by a former colleague. As punchlines and bodies pile up, the choice is simple: commit to the bit or die trying.

Merlesque: How an Adult Woman Became a Mermaid
(theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 17-22 August) 

Merlesque is a tale about a tail. A policy expert uprooted by America’s 2024 presidential election, Merlesque is the true story of how a statistician turned into a birthday party mermaid.

Theatre

JOSIAH 
(theSpace Triplex, 17-29 August)

Who was the real Uncle Tom? This new Canadian play dramatises the journey of Josiah Henson from the depths of slavery to the heights of freedom. One actor, 36 characters. No set. No props. Just your imagination.

The Unsolvable Case of Keir Starmer 
(theSpace Triplex, 17-22 August) 

Through imagined conversations with a therapist, Keir Starmer grapples with the transformation from lawyer to national leader – ‘Oh God, you know I don’t do this self-analysis thing very well.’

Eight Hours
(theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 17-28 August) 

Strangers, eight hours, one connection they can’t quite explain. Following two queer women through the only night they’ll spend together, it might mean everything – or nothing at all. Is eight hours long enough to fall in love?

It Happened on a Tuesday
(theSpace @ Niddry Street, 17-22 August) 

Six employees. One Tuesday in the office. £60,000 stolen. To solve the mystery, the boss asks each of his employees to walk him through their day, resulting in absurd recreations and ridiculous revelations.

Nude
(theSpace on the Mile, 17-29 August)

A university student poses nude at a life drawing class for all the wrong reasons. A funny, devastating solo play about desire, fantasy and the seductive idea that being seen is the same as being empowered.

Dead Wrong
(theSpace Triplex, 17-29 August)

Fiadh and Nolan were your normal uni students until one murderous night changes everything. Come join these best friends in hiding as they figure out their next move. Will they betray one another or accept defeat?

Halfway Home
(theSpace on the Mile, 17-22 August)

Davie, newly released from prison, moves in with his policeman-hopeful brother, Freddie, and his fiancee Laura, an overworked NHS nurse. Past mistakes resurface and clashing beliefs expose deep family fractures in austerity-hit Scotland.

Hope This Helps!
(theSpace @ Venue 45, 17-29 August) 

Five internet addicts visit The Retreat in search of an easy life fix, hoping cucumber peels and tst exercises can buy back their happiness and spontaneity. A new satirical comedy about wellness, digital connection, and touching grass.

Pigeon Syndrome
(theSpace @ Symposium Hall, 17-22 August)

When a hapless husband accidentally steps on a bee that his wife was saving, it seems their marriage finally hits rock bottom. But when he rescues an injured pigeon, he discovers a way to restore their former passion.

Nocturnal Is The New Sexy
(theSpace on the Mile, 17-22 August)

Nocturnal Is The New Sexy follows a couple fractured by NHS night shifts, post-it notes and modern labour, blending ensemble movement and dark humour to expose love, exhaustion and the cost of being seen.

The Powerpop Girls: A New Diva Religion
(theSpace @ Niddry Street. 17-22 August)

A camp workplace comedy set in a celestial bureaucracy where pop divas are treated as religious figures. Madness ensues when a rogue employee accidentally merges the religions of three modern pop icons.

Leith’s first French wine bar officially opens

Partners and wine experts Jonathan Heredia and Isla Mosquera have officially opened the doors to Chez Bernard, a new neighbourhood French wine bar and bistro located on the waterfront of The Shore in Leith.

As the first French wine bar in the area, it is set to become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike, whether for a long lunch or evening drink.

Chez Bernard is more than just a name to Jonathan and Isla. The new bar is a tribute to Jonathan’s grandfather, Bernard, and to the simple moments that shaped his lifelong love for food, wine, and the table. 

Jonathan spent many summers near the Atlantic coast of France, which is where his appreciation for a traditional ‘long lunch’ began.  While these long French lunches are a huge inspiration behind the venue, the space is also a vibrant wine bar, making Chez Bernard the ideal place to visit in the evening for a bottle of wine, fresh oysters, cheese and charcuterie, or simply a relaxed glass at the bar.

Opening Chez Bernard is the couple’s way of keeping Jonathan’s grandfather’s memory alive. In a fitting tribute, the perfect waterfront space for their vision became available just off ‘Bernard Street’, a clear sign to Jonathan and Isla that they had found their home.

Drawing on 15 years of combined experience in hospitality between them, Jonathan and Isla who are engaged, are bringing that expert knowledge and passion for wine to Leith with Chez Bernard. The pair have curated an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with the bistro’s authentic French and seafood offerings.

The menu at Chez Bernard caters to all occasions, offering great options whether diners are looking for a solo bite or food to share. Guests can expect classic French sharing plates, including a selection of artisanal French cheeses and charcuterie.

The bar also boasts an array of seafood dishes, featuring a salmon platter, dressed crab, and fresh oysters, alongside an assortment of hot dishes and additional sharing plates.

Co-owner Jonathan Heredia, said: “Chez Bernard is deeply personal for us. It’s a tribute to my grandfather and to the simple moments that shaped my love for food, wine, and the table.

“I spent many summers with my grandfather, which is where my love for a long, leisurely lunch began. When this beautiful space became available just off Bernard Street, it felt like absolute fate for both of us.

“This is our way of keeping his memory alive, and Isla and I want to bring a little of that continental warmth to The Shore. We want this to be a welcoming place to share good food, enjoy wine, and spend time around the table with the people you love.”

Chez Bernard promises an inviting, relaxed atmosphere perfect for afternoon grazing, evening drinks, or celebratory dinners with loved ones.

For more information, to view the menus, and to book a table, please visit:

https://www.chezbernard.co.uk/

Step onto Platform 9¾ at Vue Edinburgh as Harry Potter returns to the big screen for 25th anniversary

Harry Potter fans will have the chance to step into the wizarding world at Vue Edinburgh Omni this summer, with an exclusive recreation of the iconic Platform 9¾ arriving as part of special 25th anniversary celebrations.

From the 29 August to 1 September, the installation will offer guests a magical photo opportunity before they revisit Harry Potter’s adventures on the big screen, with all eight films in the beloved series returning to Vue from 28 August.

The anniversary season commemorates 25 years since Harry made his big-screen debut in 2001 and will give Potterheads and film fans the perfect opportunity to experience Hogwarts and the wizarding world’s other memorable locations as they were meant to be seen.

Based on the book series that captured the imaginations of a generation, the celebrations will begin with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, introducing The Boy Who Lived, his best friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, and the remarkable professors and pupils of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The series will conclude in early October with the epic two-part showdown of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. Harry, Ron and Hermione must leave the familiar surroundings of Hogwarts behind as they prepare for a final confrontation with Lord Voldemort, whose plans threaten both the wizarding and Muggle worlds.

Alongside the exclusive Platform 9¾ photo opportunity, Vue is offering fans the chance to enjoy the films with brand-new merchandise. This includes a collectible popcorn tin with a wand stirrer and a premium Harry Potter-themed cup.

Film lovers in Edinburgh can also enjoy the screenings from Vue’s biggest and comfiest seats, Ultra Lux. Strategically positioned to provide the best possible view of the big screen, Ultra Lux seating features an extra-wide armrest, a personal table for snacks and beverages, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler, offering a luxurious way to become immersed in a great story.

Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue in Edinburgh, said: “Since 2001, the Harry Potter films have become some of the most enjoyable, memorable and beloved big-screen adventures of all time.

“To mark this special anniversary, we’re thrilled to give fans the chance to step into the wizarding world at our exclusive Platform 9¾ installation before welcoming them back to Hogwarts on the big screen.

“Whether they have enjoyed the films many times before or are experiencing them for the first time, this anniversary season is guaranteed to provide plenty of magical moments and memories for film fans to treasure.”

To find out more, visit www.myvue.com

Harry Potter Back on the Big Screen Season

Harry Potter & The Philosopher’s Stone (25th Anniversary)  – From 28 August

Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets  – From 4 September

Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban  – From 11 September

Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire  – From 18 September

Harry Potter & The Order of The Phoenix  – From 25 September

Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince – From 2 October

Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part 1  – From 9 October 

Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part 2  – From 16 October 

MYDG groups restart tomorrow

MYDG will be back to our youth clubs next week starting Monday!😁

We’re excited to see everyone.

Few little changes to our programme with our s1+ Girls Group moving to a Monday but that is all.

Chatterbooks is back at Drumbrae

TUESDAY 6 – 7pm at DRUMBRAE LIBRARY HUB

📖CHATTERBOOKS IS COMING BACK! 📚

This Tuesday 6-7pm, Chatterbooks our P4-7 book group is meeting for books, games, craft, fun, snacks and more!

If you love books or just want to come and find out what the group is like then come along! 📕📖

Global delegation scouts Edinburgh festivals to take UK shows overseas

26 commissioners, producers and arts leaders from 13 countries will travel to Edinburgh to discover UK theatre and dance with the potential to reach audiences in their countries

  • 26 leading international commissioners, producers and arts leaders will explore UK work at the Edinburgh Fringe and Edinburgh International festival.
  • The visit forms part of the British Council’s Edinburgh International Performing Arts Delegation.
  • More than four in five delegates from last year’s programme said they were likely to programme a UK production. 

Organised by the British Council, the Edinburgh International Performing Arts Delegation (IPAD) will connect delegates directly with UK artists and performing companies. 

Running from 19 to 26 August, the programme will give delegates access to performances across the festivals, alongside curated showcases, industry briefing and networking events.  

Journalist Lyn Gardner, who briefed last year’s delegation, said UK companies can be disadvantaged in comparison to international counterparts who have more funding and time to develop their work.

Edinburgh IPAD helps address this imbalance by connecting UK artists and companies with international decision-makers, creating opportunities for new commissions, touring partnerships, re-stagings and other international collaborations.

Previous editions have already helped UK work reach audiences worldwide. Recent outcomes include a Japanese tour for Ramesh Meyyappan’s Love Beyond, performances of Emma Frankland’s No Apologies across the Western Balkans and in Brazil, and a Spanish-language production of Karis Kelly’s Consumed in Venezuela.

This year’s delegation includes representatives from Australia, China, Egypt, India, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, the Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Ukraine and Venezuela.

Among them are three delegates from Ukraine, including Kyrylo Beskorovainyi, co-composer and writer of multi-award-winning musical, The Tiger Hunters.

A full list of the delegates and biographies can be found here.

The programme builds on the success of Edinburgh IPAD 2025, which in just six days saw 24 delegates from 15 countries make 448 new connections with UK artists, companies and industry professionals, and generate 124 expressions of interest in programming 27 UK productions internationally. 

More than four in five delegates said they were likely or very likely to programme a UK show following their visit, and more than half also expressed an interest in restaging productions or directing translated versions, creating long-term routes for UK work to reach international audiences without the financial and environmental costs of touring an entire company.

Every delegate surveyed said the programme had strengthened their understanding of contemporary UK performing arts, created new opportunities to connect with UK artists and made them more likely to pursue future collaborations. Delegates’ confidence in working with UK partners increased by 45%, while their understanding of the current UK theatre landscape rose by 53%.

Seung Mee Kim of South Korean performing arts company ARTIGO described the programme as “the most productive time in Edinburgh I’ve ever had”, adding that it had helped her understand the arts scenes across all four UK nations and connect with the right people.

Edinburgh IPAD coincides with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival, as well as three curated national showcases: Made in Scotland, Cymru Wales in Edinburgh and Spotlight on Theatre and Dance from Northern Ireland.

Together, these events give delegates direct access to the breadth of contemporary performance being created across the whole of the UK and enable international commissioners to discover, connect with and champion work for audiences around the world. 

Neil Webb, British Council Director of Theatre and Dance, said: “The Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival showcase some of the UK’s most exciting new performances.

“Edinburgh IPAD ensures their impact extends beyond August by connecting UK artists with international commissioners, creating lasting opportunities for their work to reach audiences around the world.” 

PICTURE: Emma Frankland’s “No Apologies” was performed in Brazil and across the Western Balkans following connections made through previous IPAD programmes. Photo: Matt Crockett

Astronomical Society of Edinburgh celebrates special celestial event

🌒 A memorable eclipse on Calton Hill!

Calton Hill was busy with visitors and locals gathering to watch the partial solar eclipse. Our free eclipse glasses were snapped up within just 10 minutes, while TV crews were also on hand, including an interview with our President.

Initially, it looked as though the clouds might spoil the show. But they repeatedly parted in the run-up to maximum, giving us a series of fantastic glimpses as the Moon steadily moved across the Sun.

As we approached 91% coverage, the excitement grew. Clouds continued to roll across the sky, but once again they opened up at just the right moments. As maximum eclipse approached, cheers went up from the crowd as the clouds parted, giving everyone a great view of the Sun at its most obscured.

A huge thank you to everyone who came along, to our Astronomical Society of Edinburgh volunteers, and to everyone who helped make the event possible.

Thanks especially to Collective Gallery At the City Observatory for allowing us access and supporting us. Thanks also to Go Stargazing who provided the bulk order of glasses for us and many more organisations and events, in collaboration with Astronomers Without Borders and First Light Optics Thanks also to DWARF LAB who provided us with a DWARF Mini for the event.

📸 PICTURES: Fantastic images captured by Astronomical Society of Edinburgh members.

Cabinet Secretary opens Edinburgh International Book Festival

Gala night explores this year’s theme Changing Your Mind

The 2026 Edinburgh International Book Festival opened last night with a special Opening Gala exploring this year’s theme, Changing Your Mind, which explores how ideas, beliefs and identities shift, and what it takes to change them.

Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic, Màiri McAllan, opened the Book Festival, welcoming guests to more than two weeks of public events, conversations and cultural exchange in Edinburgh. 

Màiri McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic said: “As the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Edinburgh has long demonstrated the importance the city places on ideas, creativity and international exchange. The Book Festival is one of the clearest expressions of that ambition. 

“The Scottish Government is delighted to be supporting, and enhancing, the Book Festival’s ambitions through Creative Scotland’s Multi Year Funding programme, Expo Funding and the Expanded Festivals Fund.

“We are especially excited to be working closely with the festival to support the Global Ink industry programme – bringing literary festival leaders from four continents to Scotland’s capital for a three-day international forum.

“With this year’s Book Festival theme a call to us all, I am delighted to open a programme that puts curiosity and open-mindedness at its heart.”

The gala, hosted by Jenny Niven, CEO and Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, featured newly commissioned writing, music and reflection from acclaimed writers including Yassmin Abdel-Magied, Graeme Armstrong, Anne Enright, Gavin Francis, Naomi Ishiguro and Jackie Kay, with original music from Aidan O’Rourke and Harben Kay.

Jenny Niven, Director of Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “Changing Your Mind isn’t just this year’s theme, it’s an invitation.

“Every one of these writers has, in their own way, made a case for staying curious and willing to be moved by a story, an argument, or a piece of music. That’s what tonight was about, and it’s what the next two weeks hold for our audiences.” 

Running from 15 – 30 August, this year’s Edinburgh International Book Festival features more than 600 events with writers from 41 countries, creating one of the world’s most international gatherings of books, ideas and stories.

Through the theme Changing Your Mind, audiences will be invited to engage with new perspectives, challenge assumptions and take part in conversations that matter, while also getting a chance to hear their favourite authors live on stage. 

PICTURES: Chris Scott