Tag: music

If we could turn back time! 

Brits take a nostalgic look back to the 80s on Live Aid’s 40th anniversary

  • Survey reveals Brits’ most-loved 1980s songs, shows and memories.
  • Research also reveals average ticket prices for concert-goers have increased by over 500%.
  • Simple pleasures like ‘being able to call the doctor directly’ and ‘life without social media’ are much-missed.

Research* conducted by Ambassador Cruise Line has stepped back in time encouraging Brits to reflect on their favourite cultural moments from the 80s and reveal what they miss most about the era.

To mark the 40th anniversary of Live Aid on 13 July 2025, the affordable quality cruise line – which is staging a six-night Summer of ‘85 Revisited tribute cruise departing Bristol on Sunday# – asked the nation to share their thoughts on the music, TV and memories that defined a generation*.

From Wham! to Woolworths, caravan holidays to cassette tapes, the results paint a vivid picture of a decade that continues to resonate deeply with the Great British public.

From the silver screen to the radio waves, the 1980s delivered an explosion of creativity that people still just can’t get enough of. When asked to name their favourite entertainment from the era, responses from Brits read like a ‘who’s who?’ of zeitgeist-defining pop culture.

Going for a Song

13 July 2025 is set to mimic 13 July 2025 with blue skies and soaring temperatures, but when it comes to the nation’s most beloved 80s track by a British or Irish artist, it’s Christmas all year round with Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ named the UK’s favourite song according to the research.

There was a four-way tie for second place in the 80s Top 10, with ‘In The Air Tonight’  by Phil Collins – famed for playing both the Wembley and Philadelphia Live Aid shows – followed by Queen’s ‘A Kind of Magic’, taken from the Album of the same name after a Live Aid-driven ‘renaissance’; Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ (originally written for Meat Loaf); and Chris de Burgh’s ‘Lady in Red’ taking up the remaining spots.

The Nation’s Favourite 80s Songs
1Wham!Last Christmas1984
2Phil CollinsIn the Air Tonight1981
3QueenA Kind of Magic1986
4Bonnie TylerTotal Eclipse of the Heart1983
5Chris Be BurghLady in Red1986
6Band AidDo They Know It’s Christmas1984
7George MichaelCareless Whisper1984
8Pet Shop BoysWest End Girls1986
9Dexys Midnight RunnersCome on Eileen1982
10Queen & David BowieUnder Pressure1981

TV Gold

On the small screen, the antics of everyone’s favourite wheeler dealers in Only Fools and Horses reigned supreme, with long-running perennial staples like Doctor Who and EastEnders following closely behind.

Gender preferences revealed that men leaned toward action and bawdy comedies like The A-Team and Blackadder, while women preferred dramas and music-based shows like EastEnders and Top of the Pops.

The Nation’s Favourite TV Show of the 80s
1Only Fools and Horses1981-2003
2Doctor Who1963-1989; 2005-present
3EastEnders1985-present
4Blackadder1983-1989
5The A-Team1983-1987
6Top of the Pops1964-2006
7Dad’s Army1968-1977
8The Young Ones1982-1984
9Grange Hill1978-2008
10The Two Ronnies1971–1987

Firm Film Favourites

The survey found that the magic of 80s movies hasn’t faded one bit over the last 40 years. Brits are still having the time of their lives with Dirty Dancing (1987), dubbing it their favourite film of the decade – with a notable 18% of women giving it top billing.

Action-packed blockbusters and feel-good favourites also made a strong showing, with Top Gun, The Karate Kid, E.T., Back to the Future and Die Hard proving that the 80s were a golden age for unforgettable storytelling, iconic characters and endlessly quotable lines.

The Nation’s Favourite 80s Movies
1Dirty Dancing1987
2The Karate Kid1984
3Top Gun1986
4Back to the Future1985
5E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial1982
6Die Hard1988
7Ghostbusters1984
8The Terminator1984
9The Goonies1985
10Beetlejuice1988

Live Aid Memories: Who Wants to Live Forever?

With Live Aid celebrating its 40th anniversary, the survey asked the British public which moment from the day that ‘rock and roll changed the world’ they’d most like to experience again. The most common responses included ‘Status Quo opening it with ‘Rockin’ All Over The World’; ‘Phil Collins on Concorde’; Paul McCartney performing ‘Let it Be’; David Bowie singing ‘Heroes’; and last, but not least, ‘Bob Geldof’s sweary rant’.

However, it will come as a surprise to absolutely nobody that Queen’s ‘electrifying’ performance ‘which showed other bands how to play to a live crowd’ topped the poll by a considerable margin.  ‘Freddie had the audience in the palm of his hand’ just about sums up the responses, making it clear there’s one band (and more specifically, one moustachioed maestro often cited as the greatest frontman to have ever lived) that people just can’t break free from…

Top Ten Live Aid Moments – Quotes
1One of the best live displays ever – the Queen performance and Freddie Mercury having 100,000 people in the palm of his hand. Awesome!
2Status Quo opening it with Rockin’ All Over the World
3Bob Geldof’s sweary rant
4The sense of togetherness for my family and friends
5When Phil Collins performed in the UK then flew to the USA and performed there
6The enjoyment of all the bands coming together for the good of others
7Paul McCartney singing Let It Be
8U2 – Bono was brilliant!
9David Bowie’s magnificent set and his emotional rendition of ‘Heroes’ – simply amazing
10The incredible amount of money raised for a good cause

Counting the Cost of Legends Live

With many Live Aid performers still touring today, Ambassador compared their ticket prices from the 1980s to the 2020s, and the results are staggering.

The comparison shows just how far the music industry has come – and how the era-defining acts of the 80s are still as relevant and popular today as they were 40 years ago, even if a ticket to see them play live has soared in price!

1980s Ticket Prices:

  1. Queen (1986 – Wembley) – £25
  2. U2 (1987 – Joshua Tree Tour) – £15
  3. Genesis (1986 – Invisible Touch Tour) – £15-£20
  4. Madonna (1987 – Who’s That Girl Tour) – £15
  5. Paul McCartney (1989/90 – The Paul McCartney World Tour) – £20
  6. Phil Collins (1985 – No Jacket Required Tour) – £15
  7. Dire Straits (1985 – Brothers in Arms Tour) – £16
  8. Duran Duran (1984 – Sing Blue Silver Tour) – £12
  9. The Rolling Stones (1982 – Tattoo You Tour) – £18
  10. Simple Minds (1985 – Once Upon A Time Tour) – £12

2020s Ticket Prices:

  1. Queen + Adam Lambert (2023 – The Rhapsody Tour) – £100+ – 300% increase
  2. U2 (2023 – The Sphere Tour) – £120 – 700% increase
  3. Genesis (2022 – The Last Domino? Tour) – £80+ 355% increase
  4. Madonna (2023 – Celebration Tour) – £150+ – 900% increase
  5. Paul McCartney (2024 – Got Back Tour) – £110 – 450% increase
  6. Phil Collins (2023 – Not Dead Yet Tour) – £85+ – 467% increase
  7. Dire Straits (2023 – Mark Knopfler Tour) – £100 – 525% increase
  8. Duran Duran (2023 – Future Past Tour) – £75 – 525% increase
  9. The Rolling Stones (2022 – No Filter Tour) – £130 – 622% increase
  10. Simple Minds (2022 – 40 years Of Hits) – £70 – 483% increase

(Prices based on average tickets with two time periods compared to find mean percentage increases)

Get Back! (to where we once belonged…)

Last, but by no means least, when asked what aspects of 1980’s life they’d most like to bring back to today, Brits overwhelmingly longed for the simplicity and personal connections we enjoyed ‘back in the day’.

The most missed element of daily life was the ability to call the doctor directly to book an appointment, cited by 37% of respondents. This was closely followed by a desire to return to a time of greater respect for elders (34%) and life without the pressures of social media (33%). Nostalgia for the high street was also strong, with 29% wishing for the return of staples like Woolworths.

The survey also revealed a deep affection for holidays in the 1980s, which many respondents described as “simple,” “cheaper,” and “more family-focussed.”

Caravan parks, Butlins, and classic UK beach breaks were frequently mentioned, evoking memories of a slower pace and stronger sense of togetherness.

One respondent recalled “less faff in airports, less pressure to ‘go places’,” while another opined, “We loved caravan holidays. We actually spoke to each other.”.

Open Music Sessions at Lauriston Agroecology Farm this summer

Open Music Sessions are back for five dates across the Summer!

Join guest musician Shea M and local musicians for a relaxed evening of tunes and the best views

Thursday evenings 5pm – 6.30pm

17 & 24 July; 7, 14 & 21 August

Feel free to come along and play, or just listen to the audible pleasures

You can bring an instrument, or borrow one

Free and drop in – no booking needed, at the wooden gazebo by the wildflower mound

#NorthEdinburgh

#Edinburgh

#Agroecology

#FreeMusic

#LiveMusic

AUGB: Kind of Blue

An evening of good music and good company to raise funds for Ukraine.

As we approach 3.5 years of war against Ukraine we are holding an evening of good music to raise much-needed funds.

All for only £10. Please come along and bring your friends.

Register via the link below:

https://buytickets.at/associationofukrainiansingr…/1766067

We hope to see many of you there.

NHSGGC Urges Sun Safety Ahead of TRNSMT and Warm Weekend

Members of the public are being encouraged to stay safe in the sun as warm weather is expected this weekend.

Thousands will be attending TRNSMT, and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is asking festivalgoers to ensure they are protected from the sun, stay hydrated, and look after both themselves and others.

Common health conditions during nicer weather can include sunburn, food poisoning, bites or stings.

For those heading to TRNSMT, travel-sized sunscreen and collapsible water bottles (500ml or smaller) are permitted.

Medication is also allowed but must be clearly labelled in its original packaging and limited to a one-day supply. Sunglasses and a hat or cap also protect against the sun.

At the festival there are first aid points, a wellbeing area, welfare spaces, and a Welfare Team.

For more information about TRNSMT and keeping yourself and others safe, visit their website at: https://trnsmtfest.com/info-item/essential-information.

For those also planning to enjoy the weather outside, NHSGGC also emphasised the importance of keeping essential items, such as over-the-counter medicines, a first aid kit, and an ice pack to help manage minor cuts, bruises, sprains, and strains.

If you’re planning a barbecue, take care to avoid food poisoning by ensuring food is cooked thoroughly and hygienically.


 
NHSGGC’s Top Tips for the Weekend:
 

  • Sunburn and sunstroke – Always cover up in the sun to protect yourself and your family from burns and heat exhaustion. This includes wearing a high-factor sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and spending time in the shade.
  • Medicines – Ensure you have over-the-counter medicines available for common illnesses, including paracetamol or ibuprofen, remedies for bites and stings, and antihistamines for allergies.
  • First aid – Keep a first aid kit in your home with plasters, bandages, and antiseptic wipes for cuts, as well as an ice pack for minor strains or sprains.
  • Food poisoning – Barbecuing can lead to food poisoning if it is not done correctly. Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly and evenly and keep cooked and raw food separate. 

For those requiring support or medical treatment for non-life-threatening conditions, there is a range of services available to help, and NHSGGC continues to ask people to ‘think ABC’ before attending A&E:

  • Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, visit the NHS Inform website or download the NHS24 app.
  • Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services. This could include directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit or arranging an appointment for you with NHSGGC’s Virtual A&E Flow Navigation Centre.
  • Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS 24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.


If you believe your condition or injury is urgent or life-threatening, please call 999 or attend A&E immediately.

For more information on accessing the care you need, please go to: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC. 

Dr Emilia Crighton, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Director of Public Health, said: “This weekend is looking like a great time to get outside for warmer weather.

“No matter what you’re doing, please enjoy the good weather safely by protecting yourself when in the sun, staying hydrated, and having common medicines to hand.

“We know tens of thousands of people will be heading to TRSNMT, and we hope everyone has a fantastic time. We ask festivalgoers to look after themselves and others so everyone can enjoy the event safely.

“For those who do require medical support this weekend, we want people to be aware that there are many services available to them other than emergency departments.

“By using NHS 24’s digital resources and through 111, people who need care can be seen by the most appropriate staff in the most appropriate setting.

“We ask everyone to think ABC before A&E. This will ensure you get the right care in the right place, will help reduce waiting times, and free up capacity for those who need it most.”

New £30,000 Grants available to support creative industry careers in Edinburgh

Amazon launches the Regional Creatives Fund, offering multiple grants of up to £30,000 for charities in Edinburgh and around the UK which focus on upskilling people for careers in creative industries.

Grants are available for charities in Edinburgh which run programmes aimed at boosting skills and increasing access to creative industry careers in gaming, publishing, fashion, film, advertising, TV, and music. 

The fund is open for applications today from single charitable organisations and consortiums in Edinburgh and across the UK. Applications close on 31st August 2025.

Amazon today launches the Regional Creatives Fund, offering grants of up to £30,000 to UK charities that develop creative industry career pathways.

The Regional Creatives Fund is open to organisations in Edinburgh and across the UK that help underserved communities access careers in publishing, music, gaming, film, TV, fashion, advertising, and more.

Applications are open now here. 

The aim of the Regional Creatives Fund, which aligns with the Government’s recently announced Creative Places Growth Fund, is to increase access to careers in the creative industries for people from underserved communities.

The fund is open for applications from single charitable organisations and consortiums based in the same region that are currently running impactful skills projects and are seeking additional funding to scale, sustain, or innovate their efforts.

Applications for up to £30,000 can be made by individual organisations that meet eligibility criteria, while consortium applications for up to £100,000 are also available. Regional Creatives Fund grants will give charities with existing creative upskilling programmes the flexibility to address their most pressing needs. 

Applications are open for small to mid-size organisations who are registered charities in the UK[2]. Applicants must currently be running a programme that focuses on upskilling people from underserved communities for careers in creative industries. 

Increasing access to creative industries 

Creative Access, the UK’s leading inclusivity organisation in the creative industries, defines underserved communities as a population proven to be under-represented in the sector.

A study from The Sutton Trust, the UK’s leading social mobility charity, shows that many people, particularly those who identify as ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals, and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, continue to face significant barriers to entering and progressing in the UK’s creative industries. 

Research released by The Sutton Trust found that younger adults from working-class backgrounds are four times less likely to work in the creative industries compared to their middle-class peers. Data from Arts Council England shows only 9% of the creative workforce identifies as disabled, compared to 22% of the general working-age population.

Unique, pro bono Amazon support

In addition to financial support, the Regional Creatives Fund will also use Amazon’s network of creative industry professionals to offer charities pro bono upskilling programmes for their organisations as well as their beneficiaries – including mentoring, work experience, placement opportunities, and digital training.

Support will be provided by creative minds from Amazon Music, Prime Video, Amazon Games, and more. 

Applicants must be able to demonstrate that the fund will be used to expand or continue an existing, impactful programme. Examples of programmes that a Regional Creatives Fund grant can be used for include funding for placements in game development studios, music production training, and portfolio development for future advertising creatives.

Grants will be awarded by an independent judging panel. The panel includes senior leaders from Amazon, The National Theatre, the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Help Musicians, and Music Minds Matter. 

Funding applications will be assessed across five key areas. Strong proposals will reflect the fund’s spirit with energy, optimism, and a clear creative purpose; deliver real impact through skills, access, and industry links; show a smart, achievable plan with confident delivery; centre inclusion by amplifying underrepresented voices; and build on existing programmes to grow what’s already working.

More information on the judging criteria is available here. 

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “I want every young person to have the opportunity to build a successful career within the creative industries, which is one of this country’s greatest assets.

“Whether it’s in film, TV, gaming, fashion or music, we have so much homegrown talent and I am delighted that the Regional Creatives Fund will help shine a spotlight on that right across the country helping people contribute to our national story.

“Alongside our Creative Industries Sector Plan this new fund will help to support growth in these fast-growing sectors by preparing the next generation of creatives to tell our national story on the world stage.”

Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee and RCF Board Member added: “The creative industries are one of the UK’s greatest success stories, but for too long access to careers in this sector have been limited by social and economic barriers.

“Amazon’s Regional Creatives Fund is exactly the kind of initiative we need – offering substantial grants and practical support to help level the playing field.

“By supporting local charities with both funding and industry expertise, this programme will help unlock creative talent across our communities and ensure the UK’s creative sectors truly reflect the diversity of our society.”

“Amazon has been a passionate supporter of creative industries in the UK for many years and the Regional Creatives Fund will supercharge that support in Edinburgh and across the country,” added Paul Firth, Director, Global Music Industry, Amazon Music. 

“The aim of the Regional Creatives Fund is to help charities amplify the reach of existing programmes that support pathways to careers in the creative industries. We understand talent is everywhere, but access isn’t, and we’re working to change that. Through the Regional Creatives Fund, we want to help create a future where creativity belongs to everyone.”

Amazon has invested over £4.2 billion in the UK’s creative industries since 2010, with over 2,000 people permanently working across our Film and TV, music and audio, books and publishing, fashion, and gaming businesses, and supporting 16,000 additional jobs. 

Amazon’s creative industries footprint extends across the entire UK: from acquiring the historic Bray Film Studios in Berkshire last year, which will house the production of the next season of Citadel; to the long-term contract with Shepperton Studios for exclusive use of new state-of-the-art production facilities at the Surrey studios where The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is currently filming; Guy Ritchie’s Young Sherlock in Wales; Harlan Coben’s Lazarus in Manchester; productions at First Stage Studios and Leigh Studios in Edinburgh; and multiple productions on location in and around London such as the live action movie Masters of the Universe. 

The Amazon Literary Partnership has been awarding grants to inspiring non-profit literary organisations, writing centres and community engagement programmes groups since it was first launched in the UK six years ago.

While each has a different focus, all have a shared goal of uplifting and offering opportunities to aspiring writers at any stage of their creative journey, and empowering those from underrepresented communities to experience and contribute to the magic of storytelling through the written word.

Amazon Music is committed to expanding access to UK music talent through a series of targeted initiatives. Partnerships with organizations including the BRIT Trust, Amplify, and the Association for Independent Music support new creative professionals entering the industry.

The Step-Up Fund, a collaboration with the Featured Artists Coalition, will launch its fourth year in 2025. This fund provides financial support to emerging independent artists by offering development grants.

Since its inception, Step-Up has distributed £250,000 to more than 30 UK musicians, including both bands and solo artists across multiple genres. These grants enable artists to fund new recordings, touring costs, marketing campaigns, PR activities, video production, and content creation.

As part of its global strategy to shape a more inclusive audio-storytelling industry, Audible is partnering with multiple institutions in the UK to support creative development programmes, from funding scholarships and classes at the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA), to sponsoring the Barbican Young Poets Program and Women’s Prize for Fiction Discoveries Programme.

To find out more about the Regional Creatives Fund, visit:

 https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/community/amazon-regional-creatives-fund

The Traitors brings all the intrigue, suspense and drama from the hit TV series to the BBC Proms

The Traitors Prom will have a matinee and evening performance on Saturday 26 July

Claudia Winkleman will be joined by a host of The Traitors stars including BBC Radio 1 presenter Minah Shannon, former opera singer Linda Rands and classical music enthusiast Alexander Dragonetti – with more to be announced – alongside special guest singers and BBC ensembles, for an unforgettable night of music, treachery and surprises.

The cloaks will be well and truly on at the gothic Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 26 July for two very special concerts with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers, BBC Symphony Chorus and a selection of guest vocalists, conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin.

The Proms audience will find themselves fully immersed in The Traitors with previous cast members, stand out moments from the show and the familiar heartbeats of the series making an appearance. Be prepared for banishments, deception and all the drama from the Round Table.

The hit BBC TV series, which drew in an average audience of more than 10 million for Series 3, features a variety of classical music to punctuate the action from the Scottish Highlands castle. The Traitors Prom will playfully feature these well-known classical works from composers including Mozart, Puccini and Tchaikovsky alongside so called ‘Traitors Pop’: gothic and symphonic versions of chart tracks by artists including Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Britney Spears and The Hanging Tree, which plays a very special part in every series of The Traitors.

The Proms Faithful will also get the chance to hear Sam Watts’s original music from the series, with the world premiere of two specially extended orchestral versions of that famous theme tune.

But don’t be surprised if someone starts singing backwards and, whether you’re a Faithful or a Traitor, trust no one…

Repertoire includes:

  • Hidden Citizens – Nothing Is As It Seems
  • Rob Dougan / Pete Tong – Clubbed to Death
  • Ludovico Einaudi – Experience
  • James Newton Howard – The Hanging Tree
  • London Grammar – Hell To The Liars
  • Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Requiem – Lacrimosa
  • Carl Orff – Carmina Burana – O Fortuna
  • Giacomo Puccini – Tosca – E lucevan le stelle
  • Olivia Rodrigo – Vampire
  • Camille Saint-Saëns – Danse Macabre
  • Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – The Nutcracker – Divertissement: Mother Gigogne and the Clowns

The Traitors Prom has matinee (3pm) and evening (7.30pm) performances at the BBC Proms on Saturday 26 July with tickets available from the Royal Albert Hall website.

It will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 and BBC Sounds at 3pm on Saturday 26 July and on BBC Radio 2 at 8pm on 24 August.

 Watch The Traitors on BBC iPlayer and add to your Watchlist

The Famous Spiegeltent announces Edinburgh summer programme

  • The Famous Spiegeltent opens this week
  • Expect magic, melodies, and mesmerising performances as the legendary venue celebrates her ‘centenary plus’
  • The original trailblazing travelling venue makes its grand return to St Andrew Square from 10 Jul – 31 Aug

10 July – 31 August 2025

St Andrew Square Edinburgh 

Tickets for all shows are on sale NOW 

www.thefamousspiegeltent.com

This week, the globally acclaimed venue, The Famous Spiegeltent makes her grand return to St Andrew Square after almost a decade away from her spiritual home.

An iconic fixture at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for 20 years since 1996, The Famous Spiegeltent has been instrumental in promoting the international careers of variety, cabaret, independent music and new circus arts.

This summer the grand dame of travelling venues opens her doors for 8 weeks of spellbinding performances, hosting the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival before delivering her own mesmerising programme of live performances, magic, enchanting melodies, and maybe a few surprise  faces!

Opening its Edinburgh festival season, The Famous Spiegeltent will be hosting the renowned Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival for almost 30 concerts from 11 – 20 July.

Beginning with raconteur and brilliant jazz violinist, George Washingmachine, over 9 days, The Famous Spiegeltent will welcome performances from renowned musicians including leading force on the UK jazz scene, Joe Webb, and one of Scotland’s foremost trumpeters, Colin Steele.

Full programme and ticket details for The Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival can be found here.

La Clique

2025 marks both The Famous Spiegeltent’s 105th anniversary as well as the 21st birthday of her notorious, multi-award-winning house show, La Clique! 

Since its inception in 2004 in The Famous Spiegeltent at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, La Clique has taken the world by storm.

The very essence of live entertainment, the international Oliver Award-winning sensation is a unique blend of daring acrobatics, jaw-dropping stunts, scintillating burlesque and raucous comedy. Visceral, ethereal and in-your-face, each act a masterpiece of artistry and athleticism, La Clique showcases a riotous troupe of crème de la crème artistes from around the world. 
 
From 23 Jul – 31 Aug leave your troubles at the doors of The Famous Spiegeltent, be a part of history and come raise a glass to the 21st Birthday of this trailblazing icon of entertainment! This iteration of La Clique celebrates over two decades of cult status as the true pioneering classic within the cabaret/circus canon, bringing heritage artistes and the next generation of performers together for a spectacular six-week season of subversive revelry.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, La Clique’s birthday show promises an unforgettable night of pure wonder, joy and delight. Sexy, funny, and dangerous, the handpicked cast includes: the iconic Ursula Martinez, Captain Frodo, Tara Boom, LJ Marles, David Periera, Daredevil Chickens, Aurora Kurth, Masha Terentieva, Mikael Bres, Byron Hutton, Heather Holliday, Miranda Menzies and more

Over your head, under your skin, and below the belt! Hang on to your hat and strap yourself in, as we present … La Clique! 

Bold Performances

Watch closely … are you paying attention? Introducing The Unfair Advantage (1 – 25 Aug)an intimate,unique and unprecedented hour-long theatrical event. Take a seat at the card table, sign a legal contract of secrecy and Australia’s leading sleight-of-hand magician Harry Milas will reveal the secrets behind the skill that saw him become a security weapon for the world’s top casinos.

Edinburgh’s own Captivate Theatre enter The Famous Spiegeltent to deliver two stellar musical theatre shows. Performed entirely by talented students, Les Misérables (School Edition), running from 1 – 10 Aug,has been seen by an estimated 22,000 people, with sell-out crowds, standing ovations and multiple five-star reviews.

Les Mis is the story of love, compassion and redemption, featuring hit songs I Dreamed A Dream, Bring Him Home and many more – don’t be put off by School Edition! From 12 – 24 Aug, prepare to be drawn into a dark and ghoulish world as the streets of Victorian London come to life in their thrilling production of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd. 

Mesmerising Music

The Paris icon and the Glasgow girl, Christine Bovill established her reputation as one of Europe’s finest interpreters of French song with her smash-hit Piaf. With a fresh take on this self-penned work, she now returns with Christine Bovill: Piaf Revisited on the 5, 12 & 19 Aug, to the venue of her original triumphs, looking back on her remarkable journey. 

Performing for two nights only, on 11 and 18 Aug, see multi-award-winning vocalist Niki King take to the stage of The Famous Spiegeltent for Time. A deeply connecting musical experience, Time explores universal truths of loss, fear and the power of love and connection, while reflecting the concept of time itself. 

What are synths? Where did they come from? And why are they synonymous with cats in space? Laurie’s got answers. Part live gig, part TedTalk, Laurie Black: Deadly Synths (12 & 19 Aug) tells the history of the sound of the future through seven decades of synth tunes.   

Sounds of Scotland 

Presented in association with Scary Biscuits Promotions, The Famous Spiegeltent is delighted to announce Sounds of Scotland. From African dancebeats, Americana, Folk, Roots, Funk, Blues, Rock and Indie, this strand of the 2025 programme, running outwith the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, showcases some of the best music being created in Scotland, welcoming artists and audiences to The Famous Spiegeltent for a series of intimate, one-off performances.   

Enjoy an evening of exuberant Afrobeat, Mbalax, Ska, Reggae dance grooves with double-bill Samba Sene & Diwan + Makossa (28 Jul). Samba Sene & Diwan is an eclectic mix of musicians, led by charismatic Dakar-born singer Samba Sene.

The music is a thrilling fusion of funky mbalax/Afrobeat grooves, with undercurrents of ska, rock and Senegalese soul. Makossa is a long-standing Edinburgh institution, a feelgood band, led by Peter Akyeampong, with influences from African to Latin, Funk, Reggae and Classic Rock.  
 
BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award nominee, and daughter of Proclaimer Craig Reid,Roseanne Reid, takes to the stage of The Famous Spiegeltent on 29 Jul supported by The Rezillos’ Fay Fife, with her alt country Countess of Fife band member, guitarist Brian McFie.

In a night that promises to be musical medicine for the soul, acclaimed Edinburgh singer-songwriter and one of the brightest stars of the UK roots music scene Adam Holmes performs with some very special guests on 30 Jul. 

On 4 Aug enjoy a stunning double bill with Liz Jones & Broken Windows and Steve Ray Ladson. Taking tones dynamically from blues, folk-rock and psychedelia for a classic stage buzzing live performance, Broken Windows will be led by force of nature singer Liz Jones. After blowing audiences and judges (including Simon Cowell) away on his recent performance on America’s Got Talent, singer Steve Ray Ladson brings his specialty Blackgrass Brothercana to the tent.

Award winning troubadour and proud Leither Dean Owens occupies the unlikely common ground between post-industrial Scotland, America’s desert states and the lush Italian hills. On Aug 6, he will be accompanied by his band The Sinners – expect a joyous, melancholy mix of songs and stories from Dean’s 12 album international career.

A darkly magnetic experience as blues meets alternative rock in a cinematic descent through Edinburgh’s shadowy underbelly The Filthy Tongues on13 Aug. Spawned from Goodbye Mr Mackenzie, expect pounding rhythms, brooding melodies, and razor-sharp storytelling.

On 20 Aug, Main Street Blues bring their popular show Kings of the Blues to The Famous Spiegeltent celebrating the music of blues legends BB King, Albert King, and Freddie King. Following their forthcoming sell-out show at The Famous Spiegeltent as part of The Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival 2025, Black Cat Bone bring their raucous, blues infused rock’n’roll to the tent again on 26 Aug.

Experience the primal force of their music: thunderous guitar riffs, pounding drums, prowling, fuzzing basslines and a haunting voice that carries the ecstasy and agony of a lifetime.  

Award winning Kirsten Adamson (daughter of rock legend Stuart Adamson Big Country/Skids) is performing double duties on 26 Aug. She headlines with her band The Tanagers, who have just finished recording the highly anticipated follow up album to her widely acclaimed Landing Place album. She’ll also play a short opening set with her duo band, The Marriage. 

Closing the Sounds of Scotland music programme in style, get ready for a night of fearless funk, creative jazzy fire, and groove-soaked energy from Edinburgh- based collective James Brown is Annie on 27 Aug. 

Keep an eye out for more special events and some surprise faces yet to be revealed in The Famous Spiegeltent’s grand return to Edinburgh!

Creative producer and Spiegelmaestro David Bates said: “Leave your troubles at the gates to St Andrew Square and step into our world to discover our specially curated spellbinding programme.

“After almost a decade away, we are delighted to return to Edinburgh, where it all began, to salute The Famous Spiegeltent’s 105th anniversary and the coming of age 21st birthday of the one and only La Clique.

“We are honoured to share this celebration with the people and the place that has forever changed all our lives. To our Edinburgh devotees and newcomers alike, we can’t wait for you to join us and raise a glass to this historic season!” 

Book your tickets now at www.thefamousspiegeltent.com 

BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K-Pop documentary heading to Vue venues in Edinburgh

BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K-Pop documentary heading to Vue venues in Edinburgh

It’s been a big week for BTS fans around the globe, as the K-Pop sensation announced they will return next spring with a new studio album (their first since 2020’s Be) and an accompanying world tour.

For those itching for new content from the band, arriving somewhat sooner than the reunion is BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom.

Screening at Vue venues in Edinburgh from Wednesday 30 July to Sunday 3 August, tickets for the screenings are on sale now. Not only that, fans will also be able to buy limited edition merch for the film – a themed reusable drinks cup and popcorn tin.

The film travels the globe, showcasing fans at a BTS-focused ReactorCon in Lewisville, Texas; a dance instructor in Seoul who only teaches BTS choreography; and fans who’ve been organising since 2013 to help BTS dominate the charts.

Defying stereotypes of the typical K-Pop fan, BTS Army: Forever We Are Young explores the intergenerational, culturally savvy, and socially active world of the band’s fans.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “Without fail, our BTS screenings have captured the hearts of audiences, with thousands of fans up and down the country coming to Vue to celebrate the K-Pop mega-band.

“This documentary will spin the camera, focusing on the amazing fan base that has made BTS the global sensation they are today – we can’t wait to share it with our customers.”

To book tickets, visit www.myvue.com.

All the stars align for this year’s East Neuk Festival finale 

Composer Sally Beamish, and 16 players from four of the world’s leading string quartets played to a packed concert hall at Bowhouse Farm last weekend, for the world premiere of Field of Stars – the finale at this year’s East Neuk Festival (25-29 June).

The four string quartets (Elias, Pavel Haas, Castalian and Belcea), are firm favourites at the East Neuk Festival and, over the five days, audiences were also treated to their masterful performances of all five of Beethoven’s late quartets, quintets by Mozart and Schubert, and Mendelssohn’s Octet performed by the Belcea and Castalian.

In addition, Beethoven’s septet in E-flat, which is said to have spearheaded the creation of the East Neuk Festival, was performed by an incredible line-up including Alexander Janiczek(violin) and Philip Higham (cello), who played the same piece in Elie Church, 20 years ago.

This earlier performance is said to have inspired festival founder Donald MacDonald to take the plunge and launch the East Neuk Festival with its current Director Svend McEwan Brown the following year.

Over the five days, audiences were also treated to the brilliance of tenor Mark Padmore and baritone James Newby singing Schubert’s song cycles accompanied by pianist Joseph Middleton. 

The Festival began and ended with Donald Grant performing East Neuk of Fife, a Scottish fiddle tune played at the opening concert just minutes before the Scottish Chamber Orchestra launched into Larsson on Wednesday night, and again at the closing concert.

Another Scottish tune The Witch of Leanachan, written by Donald Grant, was also used as the music to accompany a new film installation The Light, the Bell & the Burden by multi-disciplinary artist and designer Andy McGregor which was screened in St Fillan’s Cave in Pittenweem during the festival.

This film piece, supported by Event Scotland’s National Events Programme, explored mysteries around belief, folklore and healing through St Fillan and the relics connected to him, and featured Donald Grant performing with cellist Su-a Lee.

Harpist and composer Esther Swift’s festival commission Zulu Voyage was packed with friends and family who came to listen to her new piece performed by local musicians of all ages from St Andrews Music Project, Fife Youth Jazz Orchestra and East Fife Community Ensemble.

Plus, there were some sensational one-off concerts from the Tom Smith jazz septet, Euan Stevenson Trio and the legendary Kathryn Tickell.

This year’s 20th festival was packed with multiple sold out shows. The size of the ticketed audience was up by 50% on 2024 and over 90% of events were completely sold out.

Festival Director Svend McEwan Brown said: “I am blown away by the sheer enthusiasm and generosity of everyone at ENF 2025: performers, audience and team alike.

“We wanted to honour the achievement of the past 20 years and hearing that this was incontestably the most successful ENF of all is a real pleasure.”

The festival was made possible thanks to support from Creative Scotland, EventScotland and the generosity of all its patrons, partners, trusts and foundations.

The 2026 festival will run from 24 to 28 June. Full programme will be announced in November.

www.eastneukfestival.com

The East Neuk Festival celebrates the joy and power of live music and its potential to transform lives. In the past 20 years the festival has presented over 400 events and welcomed over 3,000 performers and 200,000 people to some of the most unique and intimate venues in the East Neuk of Fife. 

www.eastneukfestival.com

East Neuk Festival is made possible thanks to support from Creative Scotland, EventScotland and the generosity of its patrons, partners, and various trusts and foundations.

PICTURES: Neil Hanna

Local school kids team up with viral Grammy-longlisted young rappers to create new rap song in Irish and Scottish Gaelic

Young musicians (aged 9-12) from Edinburgh and Cork are breaking new grounds with a unique hybrid international hip-hop collaboration, blending Irish and Scottish Gaelic in a creative celebration of language, culture, and connection.

The project, led by Cork’s Kabin Crew (the collective behind the Grammy Award longlisted viral hit ‘The Spark’) and Tinderbox Collective, brings together nine young artists from Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirce (Parkside Primary School), a Gaelic-medium primary school in Edinburgh and five experienced young performers from the Kabin Studio’s ‘Kabin Crew’ project in Cork, who have been co-writing a rap song exploring their shared heritage.

Funded by the Foras na Gaeilge – Colmcille Fund, and supported by Barr na gCnoc, University College Cork, the initiative has seen the group connect through eight online writing sessions, where they have shared stories, built friendships, and co-written a rap track that explores the theme “Edinburgh vs Cork.” 

During the online sessions, the young artists shared stories about their hometowns, swapped slang, and exchanged other phrases in Irish and Scots Gaelic. The writing process became a cultural exchange as much as a musical one.

Each group writes in their own language, yet the similarities between Irish and Scots Gaelic have sparked a lot of interest, fun and humour, which really highlights the deep linguistic and cultural ties between Scotland and Ireland. The result is a vibrant, joyful track that reflects their creativity, curiosity, and cultural pride.

Jed Milroy, General Manager at Tinderbox Collective, said: “Tinderbox Collective are so excited to be collaborating with The Kabin Studio on this unique creative project.

“Their ambitious approach to making youth music both accessible as well as of the highest quality is truly inspiring for us all and to be part of them using that platform to promote Gaelic and Irish is a real honour. Long may it continue!”

From grass-roots youth work to award-winning productions, Tinderbox aims to ignite a spark in people – one which fills them with confidence, imagination, and sense of possibility, and helps them achieve things they never thought possible.

Their work uses music and the arts to bring people together and strengthen communities, providing exciting opportunities to those who need them most, and supporting young people to build their confidence, skills, self-esteem, and professional experience.

Máire Dineen, Programme Manager at Kabin Crew, said: “The Kabin Studio is delighted to be part of this project and looks forward to building new relationships with our Scottish friends through music and language.”

The collaboration will culminate in a professional recording and music video. Five of the Edinburgh participants will travel to Cork on 27th June to record the track at the Kabin Studio, while five members of Kabin Crew will later visit Edinburgh to film the video alongside their new collaborators.

The Kabin Studio, based in Knocknaheeny, Cork, is a dynamic youth music and creative hub known for empowering young people through songwriting, rap, and performance. It provides a safe and inspiring space for young artists to express themselves, collaborate, and develop their talents.

Talking about this project, Heidi from Kabin Crew, said: “I feel it’s an amazing way for kids in the North Side to learn Irish and Gaelic.

“I can’t wait to meet my new friends in Edinburgh, they were really nice over Zoom, super sweet and I can’t wait to meet them”

Archie, aged 10, from Edinburgh said – “It’s been working really well getting to write a song in Gaelic and Irish and meeting the Kabin Studio guys.

“It’s really interesting to meet Irish Gaelic rappers. I hope is that if we keep doing this we could get as famous as the Kabin Crew!”

By writing and performing in Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic, these young artists are helping to bring these rich, historically underrepresented languages to audiences who wouldn’t usually engage with them and showing them that Gaelic languages are not only alive but thriving in the voices of the next generation.

The Tinderbox and Kabin Crew collaboration will be released later this year.