Tag: St James Quarter

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2022 programme launched

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF MOMENTOUS MOMENTS

Today, Thursday 7th July, Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to launch the official 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme.

After the challenges of the last two years, it feels more important than ever to celebrate the diverse selection of work on display at the Fringe, spanning the genres of theatre, dance, circus, physical theatre, comedy, music, musicals, opera, cabaret, variety, children’s shows, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

As published in June, our shared vision for the Fringe is to give anyone a stage and everyone a seat.

This year’s programme features work across 3,171 shows, from 58 countries, with themes tackling some of the most topical issues in the world today. 

From migration, refugees and displaced people, to race and identity, women’s safety, disability, mental health and climate change, as well as an exploration into gender, queer identity and drag, true crime and more along the way.

As might be expected, lockdown and wider isolation are prominent themes, as well as a focus on parent and child relationships through various generations. Joyously, this year’s Fringe brings together many well-known names, as well as emerging talent, in work both homegrown and international.

New for 2022 is an extension of the popular Fringe Street Events, which will invite audiences to enjoy performances in new locations, including St Andrew Square and St James Quarter.

In addition, Fringe Central – the festival’s home from home for Fringe artists, journalists, venue operators, creative industries, and visiting curators – is moving to St James Quarter for the first time.

In previous years this dedicated participants’ hub has played host to over 1,000 national and international media representatives, alongside 1,200 arts industry professionals looking for shows to book as well as co-commissioning and touring opportunities, making the Fringe one of the world’s foremost places for performing artists to do business, and to find opportunities to share their work in other festivals and on stage and screen.

Launching the 2022 Fringe Programme, Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: “As we celebrate the festival’s 75th anniversary year, the launch of today’s programme reflects the regenerative nature of a cultural icon that has weathered many storms since its inception.

“Featuring 3,171 shows from 58 countries, this year’s programme represents a glorious return to fully live shows in theatres, venues and public spaces across Edinburgh, in one of the greatest annual celebrations of culture and creativity in the world.

“As a festival which offers anyone a stage and everyone a seat, we can’t wait to welcome artists, writers, staff, crew, venues, producers, creatives, residents and audience members together this August, after two years of uncertainty and reinvention.

“We are hugely thankful to all our sponsors and supporters – those who have backed us through the tough times and those who have come on board to ensure the Fringe returns to its full stature in its celebratory 75th year.

“Venues, producers and artists have created an amazing array of performances and events which dig into some of the most topical themes being discussed in the world today. This is an opportunity for us all to laugh, cry, celebrate and be entertained together, living in this one incredible moment and looking ahead to the future of the Fringe and the many momentous moments yet to come.”

Culture Minister Neil Gray said: “It’s fantastic to see the Fringe unveiling such a varied and exciting programme for its 75th anniversary celebrations this year.  Over the decades, as part of the Edinburgh Festivals, the Fringe has been pivotal in shaping and promoting our cultural identity on an international stage.

“To support the return and delivery of Fringe 2022, the Society has received £1.58 million through our PLACE Resilience Fund with £305,000 of this going towards maintaining the Society’s arts industry and media services and supporting the Fringe street events.

“The remaining £1.275 million in the fund has gone to venue producers so that they can continue to programme work of the highest quality.  This benefits artists, workers and audiences by protecting jobs an increasing local employment as well as promoting accessibility, sustainability, diversity and inclusion.

“I would encourage everyone to visit the Fringe this year, and to do so safely and with consideration for those around you.”

Cllr Cammy Day, Council Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said:“This is a very special year for the Fringe, not only does it see the return of a jam-packed programme of artists and performers from across the globe, it is also marks 75 years of this remarkable festival. The Fringe’s varied programme promises to impress, entertain and educate audiences of all ages with performers visiting the capital to showcase their work and meet new audiences.

“This year also marks the fifth year of Fringe Days Out where people have the opportunity to enjoy the Fringe. Through partnerships with schools, community groups, charities and organisations Fringe vouchers, bus tickets and additional support is provided to offer residents the choice to visit the festival. I would encourage everyone to explore this year’s programme– it’s not to be missed.”

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a fantastic platform for artists, performers and communities to connect, enjoy and share memorable experiences. 

“It is also a key part of Scotland’s portfolio of world-class events and having the Fringe in our calendar further strengthens the country’s position as a leading events destination and the perfect stage for events.

“The launch of the 2022 programme is a wonderful milestone as we celebrate 75 years of this amazing event and return of an international cultural icon. Whether it’s comedy, music or theatre, now is the time to plan and enjoy experiences that stir the emotions and elevate in-the-moment moods.”

James Stafford Head of Partnerships & Community at TikTok said: “The Edinburgh Fringe is a unique moment that brings together emerging artists in a celebration of creativity.

“Our partnership places TikTok’s global community at the heart of the iconic festival, and celebrates our joint belief that creativity is for everyone. TikTok is the home of entertainment and creativity and I know our community will welcome the opportunity to discover new artists, collaborate, and be inspired.”

Barbara Smith, Managing Director of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, said: “The Johnnie Walker Princes Street team is delighted to be on board as Official Partner of The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in its momentous 75th year.

“2022 is a big year for us, too, as we’ll enjoy our first summer open, and we can’t wait to help entertain the festival crowds when they arrive come August. We’re very much looking forward to hosting our own unmissable programme of events in our ‘Label Studio’ space as part of our ‘Pick of the Fringe’ series.

“Our guests can expect to enjoy an exciting and diverse mix of comedy, music, and theatre, paired with some of the most creative cocktails and tastiest drams Scotland has to offer.”

PICTURES: Neil Hanna Photography

Fringe Central moves to St James Quarter

Today, 28 June, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to announce a new space for Fringe Central at St James Quarter. Located in the heart of the city, the new Fringe Central hub will deliver a tailored programme of activity for artists, industry and media, led by the Fringe Society team during the festival.

Opening from Monday 01 August to Monday 29 August, from 10:00 to 18:00, Fringe Central will offer support on all aspects of participating in the Fringe, as well as practical services for those visiting the Fringe, such as access to computers, printing, and free Wi-Fi.

The Artist Support, Arts Industry, Artist Development and Media teams will be based within St James Quarter, each with a view to helping those coming to the Fringe navigate their visit, and to offer a space to anyone with questions or needing a break.

The much-anticipated Fringe Central Events Programme will also bring career-building opportunities, panel discussions and networking, as well as 1-2-1 mental health first aid appointments provided by Space to Breathe from 9th – 19th August.

Every event in the programme is free to registered Fringe participants, and the first batch of these is now available to browse and book on Fringe Connect (connect.edfringe.com), the Fringe Society’s online platform for artists and industry.

The programme will include highlights such as:

Pre-Fringe TikTok workshops (02 – 04 August)

  • Includes guidance on getting started on TikTok, content strategies and how to generate revenue through the app.

Tweet the Media (05 August)

  • 2021’s popular digital event Tweet the Media returns this year on 5 August. All registered Fringe acts will be invited to use a hashtag to pitch their shows via tweets to accredited media, who will monitor the hashtag in the same way they’d watch show pitches in person.

Meet the Media (06 August)

  • The highly anticipated return of this annual event, alongside Tweet the Media, in which Fringe participants can pitch in-person to media representatives, meet Fringe Society staff, learn more about the services provided and connect with peers while queuing for their pitching slot.

Disabled Practitioners Get Together (15 August)

  • Hosted by Birds of Paradise, this event seeks to provide an accessible space where disabled people working in theatre and performance can meet, talk and connect with each other.

Practical approaches to truly diverse casting (22 August)

  • This panel discussion with Backstage and industry experts will provide   practical approaches to enable participants to cast in a truly diverse and authentic way.

The Fringe Fair (22 August)

  • An opportunity to meet key organisations such as membership bodies, festivals, training providers and agencies, in the format of a career fair.

Fringe Swap Shop (27 – 29 August)

  • Three days at the end of the Fringe during which participants can swap   unwanted props, useable furniture, costumes and anything else recyclable from their shows.

Commenting on this year’s Fringe Central programme, Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: “I’m delighted that Fringe Central will be at home on the ground floor of St James Quarter this year, a blossoming district for locals and visitors. 

“Our Fringe Central team will support artists in maximising their time at the Fringe; and our range of workshops, events and wellbeing initiatives will ensure they receive the right support, at every step of their Fringe journey. 

“In addition, our media team will offer support to reviewers, critics, print and broadcast media offering them a warm welcome to the Fringe in our 75th anniversary year. A home from home for anyone who wants to learn more about the phenomenon that is the Edinburgh Fringe. 

“We’re excited to be working with the St James Quarter team, who are also supporting our expanded Street Events programme, and our new partnership with TikTok.”

Nick Peel, Managing Director at the St James Quarter, said: “St James Quarter is a welcoming lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion and we’re passionate about supporting Edinburgh’s world-renowned cultural offering and its vibrant events calendar.

“We have a plethora of exciting events coming this summer and we’re delighted to be partnering with Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society to get the show on the road.”

Roddy Smith, Chief Executive at Essential Edinburgh, said: ‘’We are delighted to be working in partnership with the Fringe Society and St James Quarter.

“The new Fringe Central venue will complement the significant Fringe presence throughout the New Town ensuring we have a thriving and vibrant area during August, welcoming residents and visitors to our wonderful city centre.”

Fleurs de Villes kicks off a bouquet of summer events at St James Quarter

Today, world-renowned Fleurs de Villes launched its FEMMES exhibition for the very first time in Scotland at St James Quarter.  

For the next 10 days, a series of fresh floral mannequins celebrating remarkable women around the world including Mary Queen of Scots, Annie Lennox and Marilyn Monroe with be showcased throughout the Galleria at The Quarter.

Fleurs de Villes is also proud to be working with local floral talent who will create these tributes based on an inspirational photo or painting of each woman. 

To celebrate the official launch of Fleurs de Villes, St James Quarter has three floral themed taxis that will provide free rides between 12pm and 6pm to those keen to explore the bespoke floral show between Friday 24 and Sunday 26 June .

Forth 1 broadcasts first live show from new home in St James Quarter

Forth 1 & 2 has officially moved into its new home, with the station broadcasting its first show live, from St James Quarter in the centre of Edinburgh.

The Boogie In The Morning team began broadcasting from Forth Street for the final time yesterday, before, live on air, making the walk up the street to their brand new studio inside St James Quarter.

The team were stopping traffic as they transported the Forth 1 cow to its new home and were supported by the Watsonians men and women’s rugby teams, St James Quarter staff and Forth 1 colleagues.

At 8am, Boogie and Arlene hit the big switch as the crossover was confirmed with the team presenting from their new location for the first time.

Forth 1 & 2 will now be broadcast live from Edinburgh’s popular retail led mixed use destination each day with access to St James Quarter’s events spaces as part of their newly designed offices.  

Boogie from Forth 1’s Boogie In The Morning said: “Forth House had been our home for so long so there is a bitter-sweet feeling today. But there can be no doubt that our world class new studios and offices in St James Quarter is a huge step forward for the station.  

“When we walked in this morning for the big reveal I was blown away by the studio. The spectacular view is the first thing that hit me especially compared to the old studio which was in the basement at Forth House. Now every morning I get this amazing view of our city!”

Arlene Stuart, co-presenter on Boogie In The Morning, said: “There is no better place to broadcast than right in the heart of our beautiful city and the views of our capital and the surrounding areas from our new studios are incredible.

“I can’t wait to bring our shows from there every morning.”

Victoria Easton-Riley, Content Director for the Hits Radio Network across Scotland: “Our new location opens up a huge range of opportunities. Not just our amazing new studios and offices where we will continue to broadcast our award winning shows from every day, but also working alongside our friends at St James Quarter and their fantastic range of tenants in this new and unique partnership.

“It is a significant investment for the company and is a clear demonstration of our commitment and pride in Forth 1 & 2. It is an honour to have such a loyal listener base and with the continued support from them across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk we will strive to continue to delivering top quality entertainment, news, sport and of course the biggest hits”.

Ed Webb, Director of Development Management at Nuveen Real Estate, said: “Part of our ambition for St James Quarter was to create a new art, culture and fashion hub that merges seamlessly with the city’s cultural offering and events calendar.

“By welcoming Bauer Media UK Group’s Radio Forth stations as our media partner, and having shows broadcast straight from St James Quarter, the development is integrating further into the cultural heart of the city.”

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “We’re honoured to be welcoming Forth 1 and 2 to St James Quarter. Forth 1’s ‘Boogie in the Morning’ show is iconic in Edinburgh so to have it broadcast from The Quarter every day is a big deal for us.

“This move is testament to our commitment to provide world-class facilities that will continuously offer unique and new experiences for our guests.”

Fleurs de Villes at St James Quarter

From June 24th to July 3rd, experience a free 10-day public event of fresh floral couture by local florists at St James Quarter – all in celebration of remarkable women. 

World-renowned bespoke floral show Fleurs de Villes, is thrilled to announce the launch of its very first public showing in Scotland, in partnership with St James Quarter – Edinburgh’s chicest retail destination.

The show is open to the public from Friday June 24th, exactly one year on since St James Quarter opened its doors, when guests will be able to tour the self-guided exhibit until Sunday, July 3rd.  

The FEMMES exhibition will showcase a series of fresh floral mannequins celebrating remarkable women around the world. Fleurs de Villes is proud to be working with local floral talent who will create these tributes based on an inspirational photo or painting of each woman. 

Participating florists include Amanda Coghill, Border Blooms by Gail Watson + Bluebells Florist Crieff, Cassia Salvona Floral Design, Farima Perry Florals & Events, Floral Ambitions, Fruit Salad Flowers, Gillytree Studio, In Bloom Studio, KDM Event Styling & Floral Design, Narcissus Flowers, Ollie + Ivy, Penelope Fleur by KDM, Petals by the Shore, Quate & Co., Rogue Flowers, Rose & Ammi Flowers, Simpsons Florist, Wild Flowers, and Wildflower & Willow. 

Visitors to St James Quarter can also shop for fresh blooms at a pop-up flower market on Saturday June 25th and visit the Fleurs de Villes JARDIN area that will host floral demonstrations and talks from Friday June 24th to Sunday June 26th.

The public are encouraged to vote for their favourite mannequin, and to enter a ‘snap and share’ social media contest for a chance to win tickets to “My Fair Lady” at the Edinburgh Playhouse. 

(L-R: Frida Kahlo, Oprah Winfrey and Audrey Hepburn displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions  – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)   

Fleurs de Villes FEMMES at St James Quarter will feature these fifteen remarkable women of cultural significance and historical impact: 

  • Annie Lennox – Scottish singer-songwriter Annie Lennox is one of the most successful celebrated artists of her generation. From her time in ’80s synthpop duo Eurythmics to her solo career, she has sold millions of records around the world, and is also known for her social activism and philanthropic works.  
     
  • Isobel Wyley Hutchison – sponsored by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Scotswoman Isobel Wylie Hutchison overcame the constraints that her age, gender and class placed upon her, to become a solo Arctic adventurer, an accomplished botanist and a successful poet and writer.  
  • Mary Queen of Scots – Perhaps the best-known figure in Scottish royal history, Mary Queen of Scots’ life, marital decisions, political actions including an alleged plot against Queen Elizabeth I, and subsequent execution has established her as a divisive and widely romanticised historical character, depicted in culture for centuries. 
     
  • Karen Gillan – sponsored by FUSE. Scottish actress Karen Gillan has gained recognition for her work in film and television, including “Guardians of the Galaxy”, “Avengers”, and “Doctor Who.”
     
  • Eunice Olumide – Born in Edinburgh, Eunice Olumide is an international supermodel, broadcaster and curator who in 2017, was awarded an MBE for her contribution to Arts, Broadcasting and Charity work.
     
  • Eliza Doolittle, My Fair Lady mannequin – sponsored by Edinburgh Playhouse. This FEMME is inspired by the much-loved Cockney flower seller Eliza Doolittle played by the iconic Audrey Hepburn in the 1964 musical film. The Lincoln Center Theater’s multi-award-winning production of “My Fair Lady” will be playing at the Edinburgh Playhouse from December 14th 2022 to January 7th 2023. 
     
  • Rose Ayling-Ellis – sponsored by Deaf Action. British Sign Language user Rose Lucinda Ayling-Ellis is best known for playing Frankie Lewis in BBC soap EastEnders, and her groundbreaking Strictly Come Dancing win with Giovanni Pernice in 2022.
     
  • Flora MacDonald – sponsored by Clarendon Fine Art Gallery. One of the most romantic characters in Scottish history, Flora Macdonald is best known for helping Bonnie Prince Charles Edward Stuart evade government troops after the Battle of Culloden in April 1746; since becoming immortalised in the famous 19th century “The Skye Boat Song” that narrates the getaway.
     
  • Megan Beveridge – sponsored by Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Megan Beveridge of the British Army made history by becoming the first serving female Lone Piper at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Edinburgh in 2016.
     
  • Marilyn Monroe – Actress, singer, and model Marilyn Monroe became one of the most popular sex symbols of the 1950s and early 1960s, and is still one of the world’s most enduring iconic figures.
     
  • Mary Somerville – Scottish science writer and self-taught polymath Mary Somerville became the first female member to be elected to The Royal Astronomical Society at a time when women were largely absent in scientific circles and their participation was discouraged.
     
  • Frida Kahlo – Possibly the most well-known female painter of modern times, Kahlo is famous for her ground-breaking self-portraits and works inspired by the nature and artefacts of her native Mexico.
     
  • Queen Victoria – Queen Victoria was the first English-born monarch of Great Britain to share her love of Scotland. Throughout her reign of 63 years she visited the country many times, and even inspired a trend for tartan and tweed across the kingdom.
     
  • Empress Xiaozhuangwen – The mother of the first Emperor of the Qing Empire, Empress Xiaozhuangwen proved to be a critical stabilising figure in her young son’s reign, remembered for her wisdom and insight.
     
  • Cleopatra – For almost 3 decades, Cleopatra VII served as the dominant ruler in her co-regencies. Her romantic liaisons, military alliances and supposed powers of seduction has earned her an enduring place in history and popular myth. 

    Audiences of all ages, cultures and genders will be able to learn more about these fascinating women by scanning the QR codes on signs adjacent to each floral sculpture that will link visitors to their incredible stories.   

    Proud sponsors of these FEMMES include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, Deaf Action, Edinburgh Playhouse, FUSE, Cash for Kids and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.   

    Other highlights of the FEMMES exhibition within St James Quater include a selfie-invoking swing adorned with blooms, a floral cocktail menu at The Alchemist raising funds for charity Cash for Kids, a “flower-bombed” Maserati MC20, and ornate floral doorways at retailers Reiss, Miele, Juliet Rose, Thai Express, IOLLA and Clarendon Fine Art Gallery.  
  •  (L-R: Malala Yousafzai, Carline Astor,  Grace Kelly displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)  

    The partnership is part of St James Quarter’s ongoing commitment to provide a cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion and offer opportunities for the local community to get involved with unique experiences. This activity follows on from a number of successful events over the last year including Edinburgh Style, Love Beauty and a seafood festival.   

    Visitors to St James Quarter will be able to view the floral exhibition in the main Galleria area while shopping with luxury retailers such as H beauty and Reiss or before a refreshment stop at cocktail bar and restaurant The Alchemist or food hall Bonnie & Wild. Guests will also be able to see other retailers unleash their inner botanist as stores get involved with the event with their own floral displays. 

    “We felt that this was the ideal time to launch Fleurs de Villes FEMMES as people are starved for in-real-life, tactile and inspirational experiences that they can enjoy safely with friends and family. The exhibit will offer the opportunity to learn about these important women who have left their mark on history and what better backdrop than a unique venue like St James Quarter,” says co-founder Tina Barkley.  
    Co-founder Karen Marshall adds: “We are very excited to bring our event to Edinburgh for the very first time and to launch the new exhibition FEMMES at the iconic St James Quarter. Each of our shows is an entirely different experience, celebrating the local community and made possible by local partners like St James Quarter which support Fleurs de Villes events being freely and most beautifully open to the public. With such a diverse group of local florists and creative talents, we can’t wait to spread joy and tell the stories of these women, en fleurs, to honour each as truly remarkable.” 

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, says: “We are delighted that Fleurs de Villes FEMMES is coming to Scotland for the first time and there’s no better place to showcase the series than St James Quarter, the hub of the capital city.

“We could not be more pleased to have Fleurs de Villes FEMMES grace our Galleria and celebrate inspirational women from across the globe in such a spectacular fashion.” 

The global FEMMES tour visits four countries this year in these world-class destinations: 

Miami, Bal Harbour Shops March 4-13, 2022 

Chicago, 900 North Michigan Shops, March 30-April 3, 2022 

Costa Mesa, South Coast Plaza, April 20-24, 2022 

Toronto, Bloor-Yorkville, May 4-8, 2022 

Montreal, Complex des Jardins and Quartier des Spectacles, May 20-29, 2022 

Vancouver, Downtown, June 3-12, 2022 

Edinburgh, St. James Quarter, June 24-July 3, 2022 

Sydney, The Royal Botanic Garden, August 19-28, 2022 

Québec City, Place Ste-Foy, September 21-25, 2022 

New York City, Hudson Yards, October 7-16, 2022 

Scottsdale, The Palmeraie, January 19-23, 2023 

Website: www.fleursdevilles.com            

Instagram: @fleursdevilles 

Facebook: @fleursdevilles                         

Tiktok:  @fleursdevilles 

#FDVFEMMES    

World-renowned bespoke floral show Fleurs De Villes to make Scottish debut at St James Quarter

World-renowned bespoke floral show, Fleurs de Villes, is thrilled to announce the launch of its very first public showing in Scotland, in partnership with St James Quarter – Edinburgh’s chicest retail destination.

The show is open to the public from Friday June 24th, exactly one year on since St James Quarter opened its doors, when guests will be able to tour the self-guided exhibit until Sunday, July 3rd. 

The FEMMES exhibition will showcase a series of fresh floral mannequins celebrating remarkable women around the world. It will partner with local floral talent who will create these floral tributes based on an inspirational photograph or painting of each woman.

Fleurs de Villes is proud to be working with local florists in order to create these illustrious designs and is delighted to be able to offer these artists a platform of creativity within St James Quarter to further showcase their talent.

Be it Scottish monarch Mary Queen of Scots, superstar and activist Annie Lennox or trailblazing actress and Strictly Come Dancing star Rose Lucinda Ayling-Ellis, audiences of all ages, cultures and genders will be able to learn more about these fascinating women through interactive displays.

Images and QR codes on the floral sculptures will link to immersive profiles of each woman highlighting their cultural and historical significance.

  (L-R: Frida Kahlo, Oprah Winfrey and Audrey Hepburn displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)  

The partnership is part of St James Quarter’s ongoing commitment to provide a cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion and offer opportunities for the local community to get involved with unique experiences. This activity follows on from a number of successful events over the last year including Edinburgh Style, Love Beauty and a seafood festival. 

Visitors to St James Quarter will be able to view the floral exhibition in the main Galleria area while shopping with luxury retailers such as H beauty and Reiss or before a refreshment stop at cocktail bar and restaurant The Alchemist or food hall Bonnie & Wild. Guests will also be able to see other retailers unleash their inner botanist as stores get involved with the event with their own floral displays.

“We felt that this was the ideal time to launch Fleurs de Villes FEMMES as people are starved for in-real-life, tactile and inspirational experiences that they can enjoy safely with friends and family” says co-founder Tina Barkley.

“The exhibit will offer the opportunity to learn about these important women who have left their mark on history and what better backdrop than a unique venue like St James Quarter,”  

Co-founder Karen Marshall added: “We are very excited to bring our event to Edinburgh for the very first time and to launch the new exhibition FEMMES at the iconic St James Quarter.

“Each of our shows is an entirely different experience, celebrating the local community and made possible by local partners like St James Quarter which support Fleurs de Villes events being freely and most beautifully open to the public. With such a diverse group of local florists and creative talents, we can’t wait to spread joy and tell the stories of these women, en fleurs, to honour each as truly remarkable.”

(L-R: Malala Yousafzai, Carline Astor,  Grace Kelly displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, says: “We are delighted that Fleurs de Villes FEMMES is coming to Scotland for the first time and there’s no better place to showcase the series than St James Quarter, the hub of the capital city. We could not be more pleased to have Fleurs de Villes FEMMES grace our Galleria and celebrate inspirational women from across the globe in such a spectacular fashion.”

Other highlights of FEMMES include a pop-up flower market, floral installations including a selfie-invoking swing adorned in fresh blooms, and a “JARDIN” area that will host floral workshops and talks.

Fleurs de Villes has always championed women from all walks of life, and has built an all-female team to execute its vision of a global luxury brand around flowers. They are thrilled to raise a bouquet to this newest Edinburgh show, FEMMES.

The global FEMMES tour visits four countries this year in these world-class destinations:

Miami, Bal Harbour Shops March 4-13, 2022

Chicago, 900 North Michigan Shops, March 30-April 3, 2022

Costa Mesa, South Coast Plaza, April 20-24, 2022

Toronto, Bloor-Yorkville, May 4-8, 2022

Montreal, Complex des Jardins and Quartier des Spectacles, May 20-29, 2022

Vancouver, Downtown, June 3-12, 2022

Edinburgh, St. James Quarter, June 24-July 3, 2022

Sydney, The Royal Botanic Garden, August 19-28, 2022

Québec City, Place Ste-Foy, September 21-25, 2022

New York City, Hudson Yards, October 7-16, 2022

Scottsdale, The Palmeraie, January 19-23, 2023

Scotland’s first Deaf Rave is coming to St James Quarter

Deaf Rave, the organisation that provides live entertainment with music, sign songs and visual performances, has unveiled the dates for its first ever Scottish showcase on Friday, 19th August at St James Quarter.

Taking place on level B3 of the St James Quarter car park, the event will be an accessible day time clubbing experience, promoting deaf identity and culture whilst bringing music to the masses.

The event line-up will see the very best deaf DJ talent take centre stage including Troi Lee (DJ Chinaman), Matthew Taylor (MC Geezer), DJ Ceri Karma, Jia McKenzie, Billy Reid and Aerial Fung (Def Motion) dancers. 

Established in 2003, Deaf Rave began with a vision to provide a platform for deaf and disabled artists and to provide unique, live entertainment for the deaf community. The rave will be jam-packed with a variety of different performances including sign song, sign rap, sign dance acts and more.

The event will run from 5.00pm-10.00pm and tickets can be purchased via the Edinburgh Festival Fringe website with ticket prices starting from £10.

This one-off event is in partnership with Deaf Action, a charity based in Edinburgh supporting, and celebrating deaf people. Deaf Action was established in 1835 and works with deaf people across Scotland and the South of England.

The charity’s inspirational work is geared towards empowering all deaf people to achieve their potential and fully participate in society, with equality of rights, access and opportunity. 

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “It’s an absolute honour to bring Scotland’s first Deaf Rave to St James Quarter this August.

“At The Quarter, we’re passionate about providing world-class events that are accessible to all and it’s great to see our Corporate Social Responsibility Committee’s vision come to life through this live event.”

Troi Lee, Founder of Deaf Rave, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Deaf Action and St James Quarter for providing us with the opportunity to bring our event to Scotland for the first time.

“Our events will showcase the very best deaf DJs and guests can expect a whole host of entertainment including sign songs, sign raps and dance performances against a highly visual backdrop.

“Our Deaf Rave is part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival so we’re looking forward to welcoming members of the deaf community from all around the world.”

Stacy Rowan, Fundraising Manager at Deaf Action, said: “We are incredibly excited to bring Deaf Rave to Scotland as part of the inaugural Edinburgh Deaf Festival.

“We want this event to unite everyone through a love of music and culture. The event is accessible to everyone, so bring your dancing shoes!”

For more information, please visit: https://www.deafrave.com/

Football and dining experience TOCA Social is coming to St James Quarter

St James Quarter has let 30,000 sq ft of space to TOCA Social, the world’s first interactive football and dining experience, combining immersive football-based gaming with modern Americana-inspired cuisine.

The new brand launched its first venue at The O2 in London last year (above), boasting three bars, selfie booths, arcade machines and a Willy Wonka inspired dessert room, and has since announced expansion into Birmingham and even Dallas in the US.

TOCA was founded by Eddie Lewis, a two-time U.S. World Cup and former MLS and English Championship midfielder who developed the TOCA Touch Trainer, a ball machine that is the centre of all TOCA experiences.

The latest signing at St James Quarter will further cement the lifestyle district’s position as a new entertainment, culture and fashion hub that merges seamlessly with the city’s cultural offering and events calendar. Blending the ancient spirit of the city with the dynamic and cosmopolitan soul of the new, it will be yet another reason to visit Edinburgh.

TOCA Social will add 22 boxes and 2 bars in Edinburgh, while supplementing the other nine event spaces at St James Quarter that will host an array of fashion and music events.

Ed Corrigan at St James Quarter, commented: “TOCA Social has been something of a phenomenon since launching last year, their venues and the interactive experiences they offer have proved immensely popular.

“We expect them to be a key fixture for social activities both for local residents and visitors to Edinburgh.”

Alex Harman, President at TOCA Social, added: “We are delighted to launch our next TOCA Social venue in Edinburgh. St James’s Quarter is an amazing addition to the city centre and is the perfect home for our first venue in Scotland.

“TOCA Social gets everyone up and playing – whether competitively or just for fun, alongside world class food and drinks. It’s been a huge hit since we launched at London’s The O2, and we can’t wait to bring it to Edinburgh next year!”

St James Quarter supports local charities with daring challenge

St James Quarter is calling all daredevils to kick off their shoes and test their nerves by signing up for an adventurous charity walk over broken glass in aid of two local charities on Sunday 12th June.

Taking place on Register Square outside the Galleria, brave participants will have the chance to break out of their comfort zone and support the vital services carried out by Deaf Action and Cash for Kids with all proceeds going towards the vital work they do.

St James Quarter is encouraging friends and families to come along and support on the day with St James Quarter colleagues also rising to the challenge to take part in the seven-foot-long glass walk, with some even giving their feet a makeover for the occasion.

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “It’s an honour to be working with two amazing charities that do so much to help others. I’m ready to roll up my trousers, get my toenails painted pink and brave the glass walk in the name of a good cause.

“The whole St James Quarter team is excited to be getting behind this daredevil challenge and we hope to raise as much money as possible for Deaf Action and Cash for Kids. We’re encouraging everyone who can to sign up and join us for what is set to be an experience to remember.”

For more information and to register go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/st-james-quarter-glass-walk-tickets-304715591537

Registration costs £22.50 and there’s a minimum sponsorship required of £150. Participants will also attend a 90-minute workshop with Firewalk Scotland prior to the glass-walk.

Tickets released for 2022 Forth Awards

Tickets for the 2022 Forth Awards have been released for sale, giving Radio Forth listeners the chance to join in the annual celebration of community champions across Edinburgh and the east.

A renowned and hugely popular event in the city’s social calendar, Radio Forth will hold its 16th annual awards ceremony at the Usher Hall on Thursday, 14 November and has today announced the release of the highly sought-after VIP balcony tickets for public sale.

Saint James Quarter is this year’s main sponsor, following the move of Forth 1 into the shopping centre where it will broadcast from 7 days a week.

The return of the awards, following a three year absence due to the pandemic, aims to celebrate those people across Lothian and the East who have went above and beyond for their community.

Radio Forth Awards recognise those who go above and beyond in their community, whether it be in education, volunteering or entertainment. There are ten categories which include Best Teacher, Best Artist, the Community Venture Award and the much-loved Local Hero Award.

This years categories celebrate the best of Scotland with Best Teacher, Community Venture Award, Local Hero as well as Best Artist, Contribution to Music Award and Forth Fringe Award, all up for grabs this year.

Richie Jeffrey, Events and Marketing Manager at Radio Forth said: “The Radio Forth Awards are something that we have been passionate about since they first launched back in 2003. They offer an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate the outstanding efforts of some truly remarkable people from our small corner of the world.

“The awards have quickly become a favourite on the event calendar and we are delighted to be able to offer our listeners the chance to attend the event. With some of the best names in music and entertainment appearing at the ceremony in previous years, I’d recommend listeners get their tickets fast!

“The Usher Hall is one of Edinburgh’s great venues, and the fact we have already sold out of the grand circle seats shows just how much the city has been deseperate for the event to return.”

The Forth Awards also celebrate some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, with Scotland’s very own Lewis Capaldi being amongst those who have been recognised at the awards in previous years.

As usual, this year’s live acts is a closely guarded secret until the day itself and the countdown is on to find out who will follow in the footsteps of previous performers including Stereophonics, Paolo Nutini and Olly Murs.

Get your tickets here: www.forth1.com/forthawards