Edinburgh’s globally renowned festivals are gearing up for another spectacular year, with Friday’s launch of the 2023 Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival.
Last night Council Leader Cammy Day, Culture Minister Christina McKelvie and Jason Rust, Chair of Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, launched the Festival alongside performances from Baila Venezuela and Marianne McGregor.
Taking place over ten days from 14-23 July the festival will include over 110 concerts featuring: top Scottish bands, international stars, and festival favourites alongside new names.
Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by calling 0131 226 0013 or through the festival website.
Council Leader Cammy Day said: “I was delighted to attend yesterday’s launch as both Council Leader and as the newest Board Member of the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival.
“I am proud that our residents and visitors are able to take advantage of such an internationally eclectic and exciting festival.
“The Council is a proud supporter and funder of the EJBF and this year, I am pleased to see events held in every area of the city – from established music venues to churches and community centres – and spanning the length of our new tram route from the Pianodrome in Ocean Terminal to performances at Edinburgh Airport.
“I’d also like to thank the EJBF Board, the artists and everyone else who has contributed to the festival”.
Jason Rust, Chair of Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival said: “We are absolutely delighted to launch our 45th Festival.
“There is something for everyone in our ten-day programme and in communities across the city. We are really grateful to our funders, including the Council. Let’s make this a Festival to remember.”
WWE Live is returning to the UK with three shows in London, Nottingham and Glasgow in October with general tickets on sale today – Friday 14 July – at 10am.
The epic night of entertainment will land in the following locations:
WWE Sunday Stunner: London’s OVO Arena on Sunday 29th October
WWE Live: Nottingham, England on Monday 30th October
WWE Live: Glasgow, Scotland on Tuesday 31st October
Fans attending WWE Live will see their favourite WWE Superstars in action, including Charlotte Flair, Bianca Belair, Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits* – with many more due to be announced.
‘WWE Live returns to the UK in October 2023, visiting London, Nottingham and Glasgow. For tickets please click here: London, Nottingham and Glasgow.’
QUARTER OF MUSIC AND THEATRE VENUES CONCERNED ABOUT CLOSURE
A quarter of music venues (27%) are concerned they may need to close down[1], as more than a third (35%) of business expenses go towards energy bills[2]
Many are running at half capacity (50%)[3], and have resorted to production cost cutting (17%)[4] and raising ticket prices by up to 25%[5]
Two in five (39%) have also found that customers are purchasing less expensive seats and buying fewer refreshments[6]
Three in five (60%) music venues say that energy bills are their top concern for the next year, above inflation rates and staff costs[7]
Uswitch for Business energy expert, Jack Arthur advises businesses to check the contract they are on and to review energy usage across all organisational levels.
Energy bills are taking the centre stage of concern for live performance venues, as energy bills make up more than a third of overall business costs, according to Uswitch for Business, the business energy comparison and switching service.
Performance venues are widely recognised as energy-intensive spaces, and the new research of UK music venues, concert halls and theatres shows over a quarter (27%) are concerned about potential closure due to rising costs.[1]
Air conditioning, heating, as well as extensive sound and lighting systems required to create immersive experiences for audiences are all adding towards total energy expenditure costs, with venues needing between 6 -1,000 kw to power low level concerts to major artist events[8].
Venues of all sizes report running at half capacity (50%) on average[3]. More than one in four (26%) sold fewer tickets this year, compared to last year. [9]
Consumers attending live performances are also more inclined to choose less expensive seats (39%) or buy fewer refreshments (39%)[6].
The show must go on: responding to the high energy costs
One in six (15%) venues report having to increase ticket prices[4], at an average of 25% per ticket to cover increased expenditure[5]. In addition, more than a quarter (27%) have also increased the prices of refreshments.[4]
Venues are also looking at new ways to reduce their energy output to directly tackle the problem. Training staff in energy efficiency measures (45%), switching to more energy efficient or LED lighting for both onstage and offstage (41%), and turning off, down or restricting air conditioning and heating (36%) are just some of the tactics. [4]
Nearly one in five (19%) are also choosing to only open their doors during peak times of the week, and 17% are using less energy intensive movable staging and production measures.[4]
But as energy prices continue to oscillate at high levels, three in five (60%) businesses are citing bills as their top concern for the next year, followed by inflation rates (41%) and staff costs (30%).[7]
Venues say they may have to make considerable changes if business costs were to increase further, especially as more than one in three (34%) state their business margins are now lower than before the cost of living crisis.[6]
Two in five (40%) fear they may have to make staff redundant to reduce costs, and one in three (35%) worry they may not be able to pay their energy bills on time.[1] Overall, 32% feel anxious about the future of the industry.[10]
Jack Arthur, energy expert at Uswitch for Business comments: “Live performances are central not only to the UK’s culture and entertainment sector, but also to the UK economy.
“While the sector has seen some recovery since the pandemic’s impact, the cost of energy has added new additional challenges.
“With higher utility costs taking the stage, venues need to be meticulous about how energy usage is being considered at all levels of their organisation – from the stage floor to sound production.
“Investing in more energy efficient appliances where possible may help to bring costs down, and prevent the final curtain for many.
“Music venues should also make sure they’re aware of their energy contract terms and end date, so they can shop around for the best rates at the time of renewal. Getting expert advice where needed and speaking to someone could help many businesses make significant savings.”
Elspeth McBain, Chief Executive of Lighthouse Poole Centre for Arts says: “Energy costs have been a major challenge to our venue, and indeed all venues in the last year, just as we were beginning to recover and get back on our feet following the devastating effect of the pandemic on culture and hospitality.
“In 2023 our electricity bill alone will increase by 200% and we are doing everything we can to meet this cost. However, this is on top of the significant increase in the cost of living which has increased our costs in all areas of the business and has also meant our audiences have less leisure spend available, restricting the number of times they can attend cultural events.
“Together, these factors have made it a testing time for organisations like ours and theatregoers alike. I am desperate for energy and living costs to come down so that we can keep bringing top class artists and productions to Poole, support local talent development, provide opportunities for cultural participation, and ensure that culture within our region continues to play a vital part in our community.”
Mark Davyd, CEO & Founder of the Music Venue Trust says: “We have seen an incredible explosion in energy prices right across the grassroots music venue sector in the last 12 months.
“The current situation is really on a knife edge, with venues essentially clinging on to the end of existing fixed term contracts and any new tariff effectively immediately creating a venue under threat of permanent closure.
“We desperately need some action from Ofcom and the Government to make the energy market work for music.”
The issue will be debated at the ‘Festival of Politics,’ which will be held in Edinburgh between Wednesday 9-11 August.
The panel, being held on the evening of the 11th, is entitled ‘Scotland’s Music Venues’ will examine why, despite Scotland’s worldwide reputation as a music nation, Grassroots Music Venues are under extraordinary financial pressures with many facing closure, and how politicians can step-up and help create security for these spaces.
Chaired by Michelle Thomson MSP, Convener, cross-party group on music, the panellists will include Scottish singer-songwriter Hamish Hawk, MVT COO Beverley Whitrick and major event professional Jim Frayling.
Unless otherwise stated, all figures taken from omnibus research carried out by onepoll on behalf of Uswitch for Business.
This was an online poll of 100 entertainment venue decision makers in the UK. The research was conducted between 6th and 9th June, 2023.
Respondents were asked ‘If costs of the business you work at were to increase to higher levels, which of the following do you believe could happen to the business?’, 40% said ‘it may have to make staff redundant’, 35% said ‘it might be unable to pay energy bills on time’, and 27% said ‘it may have to close down’.
Respondents were asked ‘Please estimate the proportion of your total business expenses that can be attributed to energy bills?’, the average response was 35.2%.
Respondents were asked ‘At what capacity (i.e., number of tickets sold) is the business you work at currently operating at for shows/performances?’, the average response was 50.4%.
Respondents were asked ‘What actions is your business taking to deal with high energy costs?’, 45% said ‘training all staff in energy efficiency measures’, 41% said ‘switching to more energy efficient / LED lighting (onstage or around the venue), 36% said ‘turning off, down or restricting air-conditioning or heating’, 27% said ‘increasing prices of refreshments at venue bars’, 19% said ‘opening the venue only during peak times of the week, 17% said ‘using less moving staging and production during shows, and 15% said ‘increasing prices of tickets’.
Respondents were asked ‘By what percentage have you had to raise overall prices?’, the average response was 25.1%.
Respondents were asked ‘What effects has the cost of living / rising energy prices had on your business?’, 39% said ‘customers are buying less refreshments’, 39% said ‘customers are choosing less expensive seats when buying tickets, 34% said ‘our business margins are smaller than previously’, 19% said ‘less of a demand for on the day tickets’.
Respondents were asked ‘What are your biggest concerns for your business in the next year?’, 60% said ‘energy bills’, 41% said ‘inflation rates’, 30% said ‘staff costs’, 27% said ‘customers reducing non-essential spending’.
Respondents were asked ‘Does your business currently have as many tickets sold compared to this time last year?’, 26% said ‘it has less tickets sold than this time last year’.
Respondents were asked ‘Which of the following statements do you agree with’, 36% said ‘my business was just starting to recover from the impact of the pandemic, and now energy costs are providing an even worse challenge’, 35% said ‘I am hopeful that the price of energy will drop in the next 3-6 months’, and 32% said ‘I feel anxious about the future of the industry’.
The Royal Highland Show is gearing up for the 2023 event taking place this week from Thursday 22nd – Sunday 25th June at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston.
The country’s largest agricultural event returns for a four-day celebration of the very best in food, farming and rural life. Visitors can expect to get nose-to-nose with prize animals, taste an astounding array of artisan food & drink and experience Scotland’s rural life at its most vibrant.
What’s new this year
The Golden Shears World Sheep Shearing and Woolhandling Championships is an exciting addition to the show schedule for this year. Competitors from 30 countries from around the world including New Zealand, South Africa and Chile will battle it out on the stage to claim the championship – this thrilling display of skill is a must-watch on the Saturday and Sunday of the Show.
The Royal Highland Show will also see the culmination of the popular ‘Flock to the Show’ campaign, which saw 38 hand-painted fibreglass sheep travel around Scotland over the last couple of months.
Come and find our flock at the Show, starting at the Macklin Motors stand in the Lifestyle Area, and travel around the Showground to see if you can find all the Flock and the clues attached to them. Enter the competition once you know the winning phrase and you could be in with a chance of winning a year’s supply of Taylor’s Crisps.
The colourful Flock will be auctioned off in September this year to raise funds for the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland’s (RHASS) Bicentennial Fund. The bidding process will be launched at this year’s Royal Highland Show, so make sure if you want to purchase one of the Flock you keep a look out for more information.
Register your interest in an individual flock member here:
The new Agri Innovation Arena, located within the Agricultural Zone, will showcase some of the newest and most innovative products and machinery close up, with live demos and industry talks from leaders across all sectors of the agricultural industry.
We have brand-new poles for this year’s Pole Climbing Championships. These have been donated in kind by Kirkennan Estate, Palnackie which is managed by Scottish Woodlands. In May this year, these 90ft poles were transported from Dumfries & Galloway to our Forestry Arena by Cadzow Heavy Haulage Ltd. Make sure you check out our new poles in action at this year’s Show.
Fantastic food & drink
The Royal Highland Show is a haven for food lovers – from the tasty delights of Scotland’s Larder food area to the huge range of takeaway options throughout the showground, visitors are spoiled for choice.
Scotland’s Larder will be brimming with delicious food and drinks. Some are brand new to the market in Scotland, while others, like Glenkinchie, are global brands. Take the chance to meet the producers and hear first-hand from them why they love their products as much as we do. Don’t forget to check out The Bothy situated in the centre of Scotland’s Larder, with all produce supplied by Mimi’s Bakehouse.
The Show’s Food Charter ensures that only locally produced and ethically sourced food is served at the Show – from delicious venison burgers and tasty fish and chips to a bowl of Scottish strawberries bursting with flavour.
The Food for Thought theatre also offers an interesting schedule of events to attend, including chef demonstrations from names including ‘The Kilted Chef’ Craig Wilson, MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin, award-winning development chef Paul Terris, and head chef of The Crown Hotel in Peebles, Kirsty Elliot. Celebrating how Scottish food & drink has been enjoyed over the last 200 years is a key theme this year, alongside how science has helped develop and progress this industry.
If learning speciality techniques is more your thing, then don’t miss out on Innis & Gunn’s Masterclass with Master Brewer & Founder, Dougal Sharp, and masterclasses in all things meat and butchery from the experts at Quality Meat Scotland.
Innis & Gunn remains the Show’s official brewery partner and principal beer supplier and official sponsor of the Royal Highland Hoolie. This year you can hear from some of the Innis & Gunn team themselves in their beer and brewing masterclass in the Food for Thought Theatre.
This year the Royal Highland Show has launched its own special ‘Golden Shears’ lager with Caledonian Brewing. This will be available in bars across the Showground.
Lovely livestock and competitions
Of course, the stars of the Show are the animals, and there will be over 5,000 of the finest animals competing over the four days. Sheep, cattle, goats, horses – there’s so much to see!
From the adorable Shetland Pony to the majestic Clydesdale, there is so much to delight equine lovers. The showjumping Grand Prix is always a spectacle, as are the exciting Pony Club Games, as well as the incredible sight of the harness, grooming & decoration classes.
The Show offers a unique chance to see top-quality livestock up close, including the iconic Highland Cattle and ‘the world’s cutest sheep’, the Valais Blacknose. Over 5,000 animals will be competing – including 1,044 cattle, 2,089 sheep, 2,087 horses & ponies, and 140 goats.
This year at the Royal Highland Show, 57 Horse of the Year Qualifiers will take place, offering a variety of opportunities to qualify for the prestigious event held in Birmingham.
Alongside the livestock and equine classes, there are numerous other competitions to witness. New for this year, the Scottish Dairy Championships display will be situated in the Food for Thought Theatre.
Step inside the Handcraft Marquee and witness some of Scotland’s finest handcrafts with this year’s competition theme being ‘Rainbow’. The Honey Marquee, located in the Countryside Area is not to be missed, as well as hosting a range of honey and bee related competitions.
Entertainment for the whole family
There is truly something for everyone at the Royal Highland Show. Away from the animal stalls and food tent, there’s plenty to catch your attention – from the thrilling heights of the Pole Climbing Championships, Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations, Axe Throwing and fingernail-biting mountain bike skills in the Forestry Arena.
To the more relaxed Countryside Area, where kids can try out circus skills, take Annie the Alpaca for a walk, get their face painted, learn some traditional woodcraft and wildlife tracking skills and let off steam on the play equipment.
The Agri Innovation Arena is a new addition for 2023 and is designed as a platform for showcasing the innovative machinery and technology that is shaping the future of agriculture. Visitors will see the very latest tech on display and in action – a must for machinery enthusiasts!
Meanwhile, qualifiers for Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition will be taking place on the Sunday of the Show in the Agri Innovation Arena. Launched by Farmers Weekly in 2018, it is a fun way of sparking a vital discussion about the physical and mental health of the nation’s farmers.
Prepare for off-road fun with the Land Rover Experience Scotland, with an adventurous driving experience at the Show. Strap in and be ready for a bumpy ride as expert drivers demonstrate to you just what these fantastic vehicles are capable of.
One of the many hubs for kids at the Show is the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) Discovery Centre, where kids can learn all about the production of food, explore the life of the soil, plant some seeds, bake some scones and even milk Mable, the fibreglass cow all in an interactive and fun environment.
If you can’t visit the Show this year, then luckily the Show can still come to you through the RHS TV, available to watch on the Royal Highland Show website all four days of the Show – with a special Golden Shears channel on Saturday and Sunday. With cameras streaming videos live from the showground, you can tune in wherever you are in the world to join in the action and experience a taste of the Show.
Visitors are also encouraged to make use of the Royal Highland Show App to make the most of their day out – through it, you can view the Show programme, competition schedules and access a handy interactive map of the showground. New for this year, you can search for your favourite trade stand using the search bar in the app, explore the entire Showground at the click of a button, and don’t forget to check out RHS merchandise in the online store as well.
Music & fashion
The Royal Highland Hoolie, hosted in partnership with Farmer’s Bash, is an exciting addition to evening entertainment this year.
Taking place on the Friday and Saturday evenings of the Show, it will showcase some of Scotland and Ireland’s best homegrown music talent.
Skippinish, Derek Ryan, Skerryvore and Lisa McHugh feature in the line-up for what is shaping up to be a fantastic couple of nights. Tickets to the Royal Highland Hoolie are still available and can be purchased on the day or in addition to your Show ticket.
Tickets for the Royal Highland Hoolie can only be purchased by those already attending the Royal Highland Show and have purchased a ticket for Friday 23 or Saturday 24th June. The Hoolie is only for those aged 12 and over, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult over 21.
Fashion lovers are in for a treat with a fashion show by British Wool taking place this year. It will showcase the best of British wool across a wide range of brands including Harris Tweed and Lochcarron of Scotland. There will also be exclusive discounts at the Show across a range of British wool brands.
Across the four days of the Show, we will have a fantastic line-up of traditional ceilidh bands, pipe bands and choirs, including Ian Muir Ceilidh Band who is a frequent visitor to RHS and guest on BBC Radio Scotland’s Take the Floor as well as Pipe Bands from West Lothian, Perth & Kinross and South Queensferry and the wonderful Farmers Choir. Head over to the West Stage where you can hear all of this and more from some of Scotland’s best jazz, folk-rock and bagpipes.
Getting there
A comprehensive travel plan is in place to ensure visitors can get to and from the Royal Highland Show as efficiently as possible.
Hopping on public transport remains the easiest and most sustainable option for getting to the Showground. You can travel by Edinburgh Trams all the way from Leith, through the City Centre to Ingliston Park and Ride where a shuttle bus will take you straight to the Showground.
Travelling by bus, Lothian Buses will have the 97 and 98 services running from Central Edinburgh direct to the Showground. It is best to book your ticket in advance, services for the bus and tram start at 6am.
If visitors do want to take the car, booking your parking tickets in advance is required – there will be no parking tickets available on the day.
The Royal Highland Show is the flagship fundraising event for organisers the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS).
RHASS Head of Show, David Tennant, commented: “More than just a fantastic day out, the Royal Highland Show offers an invaluable insight into the story of Scotland’s food, farming and rural life.
“There is truly something for everyone, whether you are interested in animals, machinery, food, or music – and you’re always sure to discover something that you’ve never seen before.
“With Friday and Saturday tickets selling out last year and the very last few remaining for this year’s event, we’d recommend purchasing soon if you haven’t already to avoid last-minute disappointment!
Sponsored by Royal Bank of Scotland, the Royal Highland Show will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, on 22-25 June 2023.
Tickets, including for car parking, must be pre-purchased online, with no tickets available to buy on the gate. Tickets are limited in number and it is advised to purchase early – especially with the new addition of the Royal Highland Hoolie music event on Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th this year.
Friday and Saturday tickets for the Royal Highland Show have now sold out following huge demand for the event taking place later this week at Ingliston (22-25 June).
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is kicking off the summer in style with its exclusive series of free rooftop events – Sunset Sessions.
Hosted on the hotel’s stunning rooftop terrace that boasts unbeatable views of the city’s Old Town and Edinburgh Castle, the spectacular events will showcase Scottish musical talent, including Beth Karp and Kohla, who will bring the ultimate summer ambience as the sun sets over Edinburgh’s iconic skyline.
Launching on the 9th of June and taking place every Friday and Saturday evening from 7:45pm to 9:45pm throughout summer, the free events are set to bring Edinburgh’s music community together and provide a platform for up-and-coming artists.
The Sunset Sessions will offer locals and music lovers alike with an unmatched experience: providing views that can’t be seen from anywhere else in the city, local artist performances and refreshing drinks.
Better yet, blankets will be on hand so guests can cosy up whilst enjoying their favourite performers. After the sun sets, guests can enjoy more live entertainment, drinks and delicious food at Eve and Commons Club which will both be open till late.
The Sunset Session events nod to Virgin’s musical roots, with Virgin Hotels founder, Sir Richard Branson, starting independent record label, Virgin Records, back in 1972.
David Moth, Virgin Hotels Vice President of Operations and Interim General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “We are thrilled to launch the highly anticipated Sunset Sessions at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, as it promises to be an extraordinary experience for our guests.
“Our rooftop offers the absolute best vantage point to witness the sun as it sets over Edinburgh’s beautiful skyline and we’ve secured some of the very best up and coming musical talent from around Scotland to perform. We look forward to welcoming everyone to join us throughout the summer to enjoy unbeatable views, drinks and live entertainment”.
Sunset Sessions is just one of many events taking place at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, including a host of seasonal activations and brand takeovers throughout the year.
To stay up to date with the latest news and events, follow Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s channels on social media here:
Anton du Beke, one of the country’s best-loved and most accomplished entertainers, has announced a special, limited run at the Underbelly’s McEwan Hall at the Edinburgh Fringe from 23rd – 28th August.
The one-hour show, An Afternoon with Anton du Beke, will see Anton joined by singer, Lance Ellington, as well as a live band and a company of dancers to create an afternoon filled with song, dance and a lot of laughter.
Anton will share some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from across his career, including some memorable moments from the last twenty series of Strictly Come Dancing which saw him become a household name.
With his inimitable quick wit, he’ll respond to questions from the audience, as well as performing some of his favourite songs and enthrall audiences with the glittering dancing that he has become synonymous with.
Anton said: “Performing at The Edinburgh Fringe has long been an ambition of mine and I am absolutely thrilled to be there this year – it’s a dream come true and it’s going to be really special.
“We’ve been warming up for you with our countrywide tour earlier this year and together with Lance, our amazing musicians and dancers, we are going to create a truly unforgettable experience for Edinburgh.
“It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration full of laughter, music and dance – it’s the perfect way to spend an hour in the afternoon – come and have some fun!”
The nation’s favourite TV judge, NTA winner Anton Du Beke, best known for his charismatic performances on the hit BBC show, will be joined by Lance Ellington, an acclaimed vocalist known for his soulful voice and dynamic stage presence.
Lance has been a regular featured vocalist on Strictly Come Dancing for over a decade, and his powerful performances have captivated audiences worldwide. He has worked with many of the world’s top recording artists, including Sting, Michael Jackson and Tina Turner, as well as performing at London’s famous Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club many times.
Together, Anton and Lance are set to create a spellbinding experience for audiences, with their combined talents and electrifying stage presence.
AN AFTERNOON WITH ANTON DU BEKE at the Edinburgh Fringe will also feature a live band whose credits range from working on West End shows, to performing with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, to recording and performing with international artists such as Dame Shirley Bassey, Andrea Bocelli, Queen and more!
Underbelly’s Head of Programming, Marina Dixon, said, “We are beyond delighted to have Anton and his team join us for six special shows this August.
“The show, featuring comedy, dancing, incredible live music, all told through the eyes of Strictly Come Dancing legend, Anton Du Beke, promises to be an afternoon out to remember. We hope you can join us.”
As well as the special Edinburgh Fringe performances, the tour also visit several cities across the UK, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Cardiff, among others.
LISTINGS
AN AFTERNOON WITH ANTON DU BEKE & FRIENDS
Underbelly, Bristo Square (McEwan Hall) 13:30 (65 mins) Aug 23-28 (£24.00 / £22.00 concession) Genre: Cabaret and Variety, Dance, Comedy
Strictly Come Dancing legend and judge, Anton Du Beke, takes to the stage with his with his live band, a guest singer and his dancers; expect a fab-u-lous afternoon of song, dance and laughter.
Performing some of his favourite songs and dances that have inspired his career throughout his life, expect behind the scenes stories from his time on Strictly that will have you laughing out loud.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to get up close and personal with the King of the ballroom!
The weather forecast is looking good for the Summer Festival tomorrow at Granton Parish Church from 10am – 4pm.
Food all day from breakfast rolls in the morning, soup at lunchtime and finishing off with a burger BBQ at 3pm. Music from Granton Youth and Ukranian folk singers
Food available all day breakfast rolls in the morning, soup at lunchtime and finishing off with a burger BBQ at 3pm.
• LIVE MUSIC FROM GRANTON YOUTH MUSIC & UKRANIAN MUSIC GROUP
Thank you to everyone who came along last night – we had a blast!
Here’s a few nice things people said online:
“Best gig ever!” “Absolutely brilliant this year” “My tip – make sure you get to the sub-basement floor” “Another amazing venue. Totally blown away” “Amazing immersive performances”
Here’s a few pics from the night – 4 more days to come down and explore!
Prestigious event calls on racegoers to get suited and booted for dancing
A TRIO of popular bands will ensure excitement levels at one of Scotland’s most anticipated racedays are kept high once on-track competition comes to a close.
Musselburgh Racecourse has unveiled the musical line-up set to get the Edinburgh Cup crowd jumping, featuring popular local and Scottish talent.
Taking to the stage will be Edinburgh-based bands The Zebra Three and Chameleon Lady, who will help get racegoers moving and singing along at the After-Race Party. Completing the line-up will be The Soundtrax, one of Scotland’s most popular party bands.
Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “This year’s Edinburgh Cup is a real celebration of all things Edinburgh.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the racecourse, and with such great musical talent on display, The Edinburgh Cup promises to be full of entertainment and one not to miss.
“The bands offer a wide and entertaining range of music that we think those attending will love. We can’t wait to see the performers take to the stage for an hour after the last race takes place and provide some excellent music.”
Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course features again this year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail fans to match the high-quality racing on display.
Along with tasty refreshments, those attending can expect a celebration of Edinburgh’s best culinary delights to go with the 7 thrilling races, with a total of £139,000 up for grabs in prize money.
Revellers are also being encouraged to dress to impress as a host of photo opportunities are located around the racecourse, with prizes up for grabs for people who share their images on social media.
Headlining the after-party will be folk rock band, Chameleon Lady, who is fronted by singer Cameron Middlemass.
Speaking on playing at the event, Cameron said: “To be asked to headline the After-Racing Party is a privilege, we’re excited and looking forward to performing.
“It’s our first proper headline gig at Musselburgh Racecourse and we’re excited, the punters are great so it will be a good Saturday.
Speaking on why people should come to the raceday, Cameron added: “Musselburgh Racecourse has more of a community vibe, so much is going on with food and bars, if you’re someone who isn’t that big on racing there is so much there anyway for you to be excited by.”
High-energy band The Soundtrax band members have also spoken about their excitement to play at The Edinburgh Cup. The band’s singer, Angus Johnston, said: “We are super excited to be performing for the Musselburgh crowd.
“Getting to perform for big crowds on big occasions is what every musician aspires to achieve. Couple that with what we are sure will be an electric atmosphere, thanks to some top-class racing, and it should be an amazing day.
“Our music is all energy, we are an out and out party band, and our goal is always to get people dancing. If you fancy a boogie today, then come and boogie with us!”
The Soundtrax guitarist Jim O’Neil added: “We’re going to get off the stage into the crowd, onto the dance floor and dance with people, we’ll get conga lines on the go, and it will be maximum party mode.
“Days like this at the races are the best kind of gigs, they are just the most fun.”
Returning to the stage will be Dalkeith based The Zebra Three, who will kick up some nostalgia as they play pop rock and rare cheese from the 60’s and 70’s.
Singer and guitarist James Mackintosh said: “We’re delighted to be performing at such a great scene, it’s always a great atmosphere, especially if the weather is good, which makes for a great day.
“It’s all about the atmosphere, when people come to the races, everyone is in a good mood.
The band also comprises of Kenny Hutchison on bass and vocals, along with his son Robbie Hutchison who plays on drums.
Speaking on the father-son duo playing together, James said: “Robbie is a very accomplished drummer, it’s just great that he wants to play with two older guys!”
The Zebra Three will be kicking off the day between 11:30 to 13:05, followed by The Soundtrax between races from 13:20 to 16:40 and Chameleon Lady headlining the After-Party following the last race, from between 16:55-18:00.
Revellers can benefit from £5 saving per person when tickets are purchased before 12pm on 2nd June, with gate admission costing £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.
Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm.
Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing seasons, including weekend, midweek, and evening.
For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit:
UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW COMES TO LONDON, WOLVERHAMPTON, MANCHESTER AND GLASGOW THIS JULY
WWE® (NYSE: WWE) has announced that the critically acclaimed UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will return to the UK this July debuting in London, Wolverhampton, Manchester and Glasgow ahead of Money In The Bank.
UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will feature “The Phenom” in an intimate setting, sharing never-before-heard stories from his Hall of Fame career and taking questions from the WWE Universe in attendance. Since its premiere, the show has sold out venues in Nashville, Philadelphia, Boston, San Antonio, Montreal, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Cardiff.
UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW heads to the following UK cities this July:
Saturday, July 1, 2023 – Indigo at The O2, London
Sunday, July 2, 2023 – The Civic at The Halls, Wolverhampton
Monday, July 3, 2023 – Albert Hall, Manchester
Tuesday, July 4, 2023 – O2 Academy, Glasgow
Tickets for UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW are available on presale this Wednesday, May 31 at 10 a.m. BST exclusively to O2 customers and WWE fans who sign up at https://www.wwe.com/undertaker-uk-tour-2023.
General tickets are available next Friday, June 2 at 10 a.m. BST from AEGpresents.co.uk
A limited number of VIP tickets, which includes premier seating and a meet-and-greet with The Undertaker, will also be available for each show.
The O2 in London hosts two nights of WWE action with SmackDown live on Friday, June 30, followed by MoneyIn The Bank the next night on Saturday, July 1. This marks the first time ever that SmackDown will broadcast live and in primetime from the UK at 8pm local.
Money In The Bank marks the first WWE Premium Live Event to be held in London in over two decades.
