Festival – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Film programme celebrates cultural heritage through UK-wide events

Changing Times inspires curious film experiences that connect future and past

A programme of special events is underway across the UK, all of which use film to connect us in these ever-changing times.

The Changing Times: Curious screen heritage programme, which began in earnest at Thurrock Film Festival, uses archive film to find new ways to celebrate the human desire to learn more about the people and things around us, bringing heritage cinema to new audiences in many different ways. The programme from the BFI Film Audience Network is made possible thanks to National Lottery funding.

Later in the autumn, The Box, in partnership with Plymouth Arts Cinema and Compass Presents, will show a selection of films as part of Changing Times: Curious, which allow audience members to expand their connection with the work in the galleries.

CURIOUS About British Art Show 9 will feature screenings that highlight the ways in which encounters between British and other cultures have enriched our society throughout history.

This follows the events in Thurrock by the Anglo Asiatic Arts and Heritage Alliance (AAAHA), which honoured several socio-historic milestones, namely the 75th anniversary of the Independence of India and Pakistan, the 50th year since the expulsion of South Asians and Sikhs from Uganda, and the 25th anniversary of the handover of Hong Kong.

Similarly, Re:Score was part of The Freedom Festival 2022, an annual feast of music and performance arts held since 2007 in honour of Hull’s slave trade abolitionist, the MP William Wilberforce. It featured commissions by The Broken Orchestra (UK), providing specially created scores to breathe new life into seemingly forgotten pieces of silent archive footage, featuring a Black May Queen in wartime Britain, and a charity supporting the families of local fisherman in the 1960s.

Journey to the Isles, Marjory Kennedy-Fraser, a new commission from the Hippodrome Silent Film Festival offered a glimpse into the landscapes, folktales and songs that inspired one of Scotland’s great early collectors of traditional arts.

The tour of the piece across Scotland, including at Sea Change Festival by Screen Argyll in Tiree, Dundee Contemporary Arts, and An Tobar and Mull Theatre, concluded at Eden Court in Inverness and featured a performer Q&A, plus a live stream for international audiences.

In collaboration with the East Anglian Film Archive, Reel Connections in Norwich will host an archive package entitled Sounds of Silents: Curious Youth at the Octagon Unitarian Chapel in the city on 27 October.

The event will include live scores by local musicians Broads, featuring Jess Blake, Kitty Perrin and Milly Hirst. A short film version will then be made available for screenings at community venues in partnership with Creative Arts East, later in the year.

This will be followed by I Ken Whaur I’m Gaun (I Know Where I’m Going) by Cinetopia at The French Institute in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town between 27 and 31 October.

The event, which will explore how folk songs have acted as a form of storytelling in Scotland over time, includes archive film screenings, live musical performances using material extracted from the National Library of Scotland’s moving image archive, and a looped audio-visual installation that will be on display throughout.

Having started on October 13 at Berneray in Borve, Uist Film will screen Gaelic documentary Dúthchas (Home) through the UK, accompanied by a minority language archival film programme using materials from across the UK’s film archives.

Dúthchas (Home) is a touching and emotive exploration of what it meant – and still means to people, especially women, to have to leave the island of their birth.

For the finale of Yorkshire Silent Film Festival on 6 November at Morecambe Winter Gardens, No Dots Ltd will present Echoes of the North: Four Chapters in Time, the world premiere of a silent film made from more than 100 fragments of archive film, together with an all-brass live score performance from Brighouse and Rastrick Band.

The event will be complemented by a selection of short films scored by Morecambe and Lancaster-based musicians.

Throughout November, Birds’s Eye View will present Queerious, an archive programme with short films from national archives that’s touring the UK, exploring a multitude of desires on screen in ways all too rarely seen in cinema, including stories of sexual awakenings and re-awakenings, and queer love through a feminist perspective.

Venues include the Exeter Phoenix, Glasgow Film Theatre, Broadway in Nottingham, London’s Rio and Genesis, the Showroom in Sheffield, Chapter in Cardiff, and Depot in Lewes.

Venues in Glasgow, Leeds and Erith this month and next will showcase After Hours, co-curated by Invisible Women and T A P E Collective to explore the significance of nightlife and safe cultural spaces through a queer/feminist lens.

Meanwhile, audiences in Walton, Liverpool can enjoy Walton Wonders under Cinema Nation’s The Spirit of Liverpool banner, a series ofscreenings and community events celebrating unexpected archive discoveries, including a Home Movie Day and a pop-up cinema at the Rice Lane Underpass in collaboration with the North West Film Archive.

A double bill of Welsh Horror films from the 1970s will be shown by Matchbox Cine in collaboration with the National Library of Wales Screen and Sound Archive. Screenings will take place at Weird Weekend, Glasgow on 30 October, and at Abertoir – The International Horror Film Festival of Wales in Aberystwyth, starting on 15 November.

And last but not least, Belfast Film Festival is to host Vox Populi: The Voice of the People, a walk-through installation at the Bank of Ireland building in the city featuring informal street interviews recorded between 1959-1969 from the Northern Ireland Screen’s Digital Film Archive, offering an insight into the area’s social history and highlighting unexpected attitudes of the day which both differ from, and echo, those held today.

Sheffield International Documentary Festival 2019

Screen Heritage Producer Andy Robson was a key decision-maker selecting projects to make up Changing Times: Curious. Speaking on the theme of curiosity, and the forthcoming events, he said: “The last few years have forced us to look at life through a new lens. Through disruption and isolation, we’ve recognised things we may have missed or never considered before.

“Through multiple lockdowns, we gained a new awareness of our communities and neighbourhoods, made discoveries of previously unacknowledged places on our doorsteps, and found satisfaction in personal passions and curiosities.

“However we experienced it, we were asked to question and learn something new, to understand the unfamiliar and seek solutions. Through film’s unique ability to transport us, illuminate ideas and to spark a conversation, we can seek those solutions and understand those experiences together.”

Visit individual venues and organisations to find out more about events and to book. And to find out more about Changing Times: Curious, visit

filmhubnorth.org.uk/curious.

Leith musicians off to Prague Fringe

Two popular Leith musicians will shortly be showcasing their talents in the unlikely environment of Eastern Europe, having received, for the second time, an invitation to perform at the Prague Fringe, a festival of music, comedy and drama which is held annually in the Czech capital.

Capital-based singer-songwriters Kevin Gore and Bobby Nicholson are best known for their Gone Native show which they have hosted for several years as part of the Edinburgh Fringe, performances taking place nightly in the basement of the legendary Royal Oak pub in Infirmary Street .

Gore and Nicholson performed at the last Prague Festival, in March 2019 and, as well as attracting capacity audiences for their run of four sold out shows, they received excellent feedback from both attendees and professional reviewers, hence the invite to return this year.

It was a Czech tourist visiting Edinburgh three years ago who, after witnessing the show, which, according to Gore, is a musical production featuring songs largely based on social justice and Scottish history, ancient and modern, often tinged with humour, suggested that the duo apply to perform at the Prague event and, after sending off samples of their work to the promoter, they were delighted to receive an invite.

“We’re really excited about taking the show to Prague once again” said Gore who recently recorded a tribute song for Edinburgh boxing legend Ken Buchanan which he performed at last months’s unveiling of Buchanan’s statue in the city and which forms part of the Gone Native setlist.

“We are the only musical act appearing at the festivaI. We have been receiving five star reviews from our involvement at the Edinburgh Fringe and we see this as a great opportunity to get our material out in front of a wider audience.

“We’re changing the name of the show to Gone Edinburgh for the Prague event to reflect the fact that we’re taking the show abroad. The content will be largely the same and we’re delighted to be returning to the venue which is very close to the iconic John Lennon memorial wall in the city’s Old Town district.”

Gore and Nicholson fly to Prague this week and will perform Gone Edinburgh on six successive nights at the Café Club Misenska in the city.

Further details can be found on www.praguefringe.com

Care residents experience a taste of Oktoberfest … in Cramond!

Elderly residents transformed their care home into a Bavarian Steinhaus for an Oktoberfest celebration to remember – with the help from a local brewery.

Edinburgh-based brewer Pilot provided Cramond Residence with a selection of beers to sample during the Oktoberfest celebration which helped create a truly authentic experience.

The home marked the celebration across three days with a variety of German-related activities, including an Oktoberfest party, beer tasting, a lesson on the history of the festival and themed arts and crafts.

Residents made decorations which were used to transform the cinema room ahead of the party and many even got involved in the set up to make sure everything looked authentic.

Christian Daraio, Client Liaison Manager at Cramond Residence, said: “Thanks to Pilot, we were able to organise a truly unique experience for our residents that many wouldn’t have the opportunity to do otherwise.

“The celebration went down really well last year with both staff and residents keen to do it again. This year we wanted to do it bigger and better before so it was great to have Pilot on board.

“As we approach the winter months it’s nice to do something a bit different and bring everyone in the home together.

“I’m not sure if we will be able to beat this year’s event when it comes around again but at least we’ve made it one to remember!”

Pilot supplied the home with a variety of samples including Leith Lager, Mochaccino Stout and two more of its locally brewed beverages.

Director/Co-Founder at Pilot, Matt Johnson, said: “It’s great to hear the sample experience went down well with residents.

“We selected a diverse range of beer styles to provide participants with a mix of different flavour profiles; some of which may have been new to them, but we hope that others might have sparked some nostalgia too.”

The Oktoberfest festivities were part of the wider programme of activities on offer at Cramond Residences to keep residents stimulated and enjoying their later years. Other activities include trips for afternoon tea, story sessions with other residents and tailored physiotherapy sessions.

With capacity to house 74 residents, in nine small living concepts, the home provides luxury accommodation alongside care unmatched in quality. It offers a number of amenities including gardens, a beauty salon and cinema room.

Places at the care home start at £1850 a week.

To find out more about this luxury living facility, call 0131 341 4037 or visit: https://cramondresidence.co.uk/

Raksha bandhan to Say thanks to NHS staff, Police & Armed forces

Hindus of Scotland came together to celebrate Raksha Bandhan, a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters (writes PUNEET DWIVEDI). This is one of the ways Hindus honour and show gratitude to British Armed forces, Police Scotland, NHS Staff and other emergency workers.

Hindu Forum Britain’s Edinburgh based Vice President for Scotland, Mr Puneet Dwivedi has been collaborating with local Hindu temples and organising Raksha Bandhan at different locations in Scotland.

This year celebration took place in 3 different cities with opening ceremony at Dundee Hindu Temple on Sun 8th of Aug, followed by The Hindu temple of Scotland Rutherglen in Glasgow and finally at capital’s only Hindu temple, Edinburgh Hindu Temple in Leith.

The word ‘Raksha’ means protection and ‘Bandhan’ means to tie.

Normally sisters tie a ‘rakhi’ on the wrist of their brothers as a bond of protection. During Raksha Bandhan, Hindus use decorative bracelets ‘Rakhi; to symbolise bonds of mutual protection.

However, the festival is not limited to just brother and sister, it includes others who vow for protection (such as the Armed Forces, Police, Fire & Rescue Services or Ambulance and Medical Services) who provide protection on a routine basis.

The festival is particularly important for Hindus serving in the UK military, because it celebrates their duty to protect society.

Hindus have time and again contributed to the defence of the UK. During the First World War, 1,750,000 Hindus deployed overseas. In the Second World War, over 1.25 million Hindus played a pivotal role in the allied victory.

Raksha bandhan festivals have helped to forge a closer relationship of the Hindu Community with other public services encouraging Hindu youngsters to enter a career in the Parliament, council, Police or Military either on a full-time or part-time basis.

Mr Puneet Dwivedi, who is a full Time IT Consultant and organised the event as a volunteer, explained his opening speech that Hindus contribute immensely to British and Scottish society in economic development, science and academia but Hindus fail to make their presence felt in other public service fields like the armed forces, Police and politics.

Until the last election there were no MPs or MSPs from Hindu community, until Dr Sandesh Gulhane – who was present at the ceremony – became the first Hindu MSP in the Scottish Parliament.

He wants to encourage Scottish Hindus to take up more jobs as MP, MSP , Police and in the Army and integrate well with Scottish Society . He mentioned his special thanks to Flt Lt Tracy McGowan who has kindly helped him over last four years to organise Raksha bandhan as part of ongoing tri-service engagement partnerships.

Indian Consul General Mr Bijay Selvaraj (above) said: “If you had food to eat, thanks to the farmer, if you are set well and safe thanks to the Policeman on the street and the Army that guard the border.

“Having friends in the armed forces and police back home in India, I know how difficult the job is, and through Raksha Bandhan we want to convey Thank you to you all.”

The first MSP from Hindu Community Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: “For Me Rakshabandhan really talks about Unity, unity of brother & sister, unity of communities -we are stronger if we are together, being a doctor I have we have shown this unity during this pandemic.

As the first Indian Hindu MSP we want the community to work together as one voice.”

The representative of armed forces and police thanked the Edinburgh Hindu temple volunteers and Hindu Forum for inviting and honouring them. During these unprecedented times, the value of community spirit has proved to be necessary more than ever.

This past 16 months has put a different perspective and places of worship have to adapt to the ever changing government guidelines.

All the 3 temples were very happy to reopen their doors for a public function after a long time. These celebrations are fitting tribute to all the protectors of the society, especially NHS workers who played a pivotal role during this pandemic along with members of the police, the Royal Air Force, the Army and the Royal Navy and other emergency services.

8th Aug 2021 at Dundee: organised at Tayside community centre by Dundee Hindu temple committee (Mrs Naina Penman, Pooja Sharma & other) attended by Dundee West councillor Fraser MacPherson, Deputy Consul General Satya Veer Singh, Chief Inspector Leanne Blacklaw and fire service officer Lewis Duncan. Army-Major Heather Lawrie, Warrant Officer Ashok Chauhan, Opening prayers by the Hindu Chaplain Acharya Krishanji, RAF-Sergeant Sandy Neill, Sergeant Shiv Chand, Sergeant Al Cameron, Royal Navy- Petty Officer Gav Adamson

15th Aug 2021 at Glasgow : Organised by The Hindu Forum in Scotland in association with the Temple of Scotland committee member headed by Mr Mr Kuppuswamy Jagannathan Attended by Margaret Ferrier, MP of Rutherglen and Hamilton west. Army- Lieutenant Caitlin Irvine, Royal Navy-Lieutenant Commander Niall Copeland, RAF -Squadron Leader Sohail Khan,Sergeant Sandy Neill, Jim Snedden, Station Commander Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and 2 Community Police Scotland officers

Hidden Door crowdfunder is live!

Last week we revealed our plan to transform a disused warehouse into a vast exhibition and performance space as part of Hidden Door 2021.

With this year’s festival taking place outdoors at the old Granton Gasworks, we now have the chance to use a nearby warehouse as well, if we can raise the funds to make it happen.

The additional venue will double the footprint of the festival this September and allow us to exhibit the work of recent art graduates whose degree shows were cancelled due to COVID-19.

The graduates, proud parents and audience members alike will be able to immerse themselves in the exhibition experience whilst staying safe and covid-compliant.

To support the plans, we have now launched a Kickstarter campaign with a wide range of rewards including an immersive treasure hunt experience through the festival grounds, exclusive hand-printed T-shirts, VIP passes for the festival, limited edition art prints and lots more.

This will only be possible with your help, so please take a look at the campaign and support us if you can … thank you x

BACK OUR CROWDFUNDER

Edinburgh set for Spring Breakout

Edinburgh’s entertainment schedule just shifted up a gear – The Parking Lot Social is back – and this time it’s bigger than ever. With tickets on sale now, The Parking Lot Social Springtime drive-in extravaganza will be rolling back into Dalkeith Country Park from 19-23 May.

2021’s tour brings with it a selection of familiar favourites alongside some amazing new additions, including Scotland exclusive Scary Movie sessions featuring live scare actors at midnight on each date.

Brand new for this year is The Parking Lot Social Easter Panto. The traditional theatre production has had a seasonal makeover – with cast members putting on a special performance of The Wizard of Oz, uniquely tailored to the drive-in format.

Sashaying onto the stage for 2021, the stars of RuPauls Drag Race UK will also be entertaining adults. Fans of the cult show can expect iconic performances from coveted cast members, including season one alumni Baga Chipz, Divina De Campo, Vinegar Strokes and Gothy Kendoll, with current season two queens Ginny Lemon, Ellie Diamond and Tayce also confirmed.

A host of drive-in movies for all ages are also on offer, as well as the hugely popular Social Kids event. Families can safely get together to enjoy the interactive showcase with an afternoon of quizzes, Car-a-oke, games and even a silent disco. For a drive-in laughs, the Parking LOL Comedy Night is once again back on the road, with some of the UK’s finest comedians to be announced.

John Kinnersley, Chief Operating Officer at XL Event Lab, the company behind the event, said: “As we know the arts, including drag performances and theatre productions, have been heavily impacted due to the coronavirus pandemic, and we’re proud to give these talented entertainers the opportunity to perform to a live audience again.

“Our debut summer tour was a huge success last year, and we’re keen to keep up momentum and continue to deliver first class events which are not only enjoyable, but completely Covid-19 friendly. Every detail of our drive-in tour – from entering the site to parking up and ordering food – has been designed with customer and staff safety front of mind, with ticket holders able to enjoy the experience with complete piece of mind.”

Attendees will be entertained in their cars from a vast custom made stage, with shows broadcast across two 60ft LED screens. Using the best technology, audio will be transmitted from the stage directly to each vehicle through a dedicated FM radio channel.

Safety is at the heart of the event and audiences take part in the immersive, interactive shows from their own cars. It’s a completely contactless event ensuring a safe and socially distant experience. Organisers set up strict cleaning and distancing rules for the most recent UK winter events and plans in place for spring will all be in accordance with local government guidelines.

Tickets for The Parking Lot Springtime Drive-in Festival in Edinburgh are on sale now, along with the following UK locations: Glasgow, Aberdeen, Liverpool, Coventry, Manchester, Cheltenham, Bristol and Newcastle. Additional Scottish dates are still to be announced.

For tickets, live updates and information visit The Parking Lot Social website: http://bit.ly/3kGwWww

Largo Arts Week cancelled

Organisers of Largo Arts Week have announced the cancellation of this year’s event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The inaugural festival was staged last July in the Fife coastal village and hailed as a major success, attracting more than 2,500 visitors and 36 artists.

Organisers had held off making a final decision on this year’s festival following the lockdown in March but, after consulting the community, have now reluctantly decided to cancel the week-long festival.

Largo Arts Week chair Dougi McMillan said: “As lockdown proceeded, we realised that there were many challenges to the event going ahead this summer during the Covid 19 situation.

“The most important point around the event is the safety of the community and their continued engagement and support for the arts week.

“We decided to conduct our own survey of artists and the community and, after receiving more than 160 responses, there was a clear view that reluctantly we should cancel this year’s event.

“I’d like to thank everyone for taking time to give us their views and we will now start planning to reinstate Largo Arts Week in the summer of 2021. Of course, we are all disappointed, but the safety of the community must come first and I am sure everyone will look forward to next year’s event.”

The inaugural Largo Arts Week featured a stellar line-up of acts, with highlights including sell-out performances from comedian Phil Jupitus and world-renowned sculptor David Mach, 36 artists exhibiting their work in 38 venues across the village and a hugely popular programme of creative workshops, family events and painting competitions.

Dougi McMillan added: “The inaugural Largo Arts Week had a fantastic reception and we will be back in 2021.”

Tag: Festival