edinburgh festival magazine spring 2011

festivals magazine

SprinG 2011tHE oFFicial MaGaZinE oF

EdinBUrGH FEStiValS

diScoVEr yoUrSElF

IN THIS ISSuE:

plan your visitGet the most out of the Spring season

Macbeth and other storiesFree your mind at the Imaginate Festival

the great outdoorsTake advantage of the Spring sun and head into Edinburgh to catch the best view of the scenic city.

From outer space to the inner mind at the Science Festival

5-27 August 2011Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Witness in person the full power of the fi nest display of military ceremony around as talented musicians put on a stirring parade of impeccable skill and discipline, given added gravitas by the unparalleled backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

see website >>

5-29 August 2011Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Experience the largest arts festival in the world, presenting a groundbreaking programme of comedy, theatre, music, exhibitions, dance, that is simply second-to-none. The Fringe turns Edinburgh into one giant auditorium which is the only place worth being in August.

see website >>

12 August - 5 September 2011Edinburgh International Festival

Marvel at this pinnacle of Scottish culture, in which dance, theatre and music are all elevated to astonishingly high standards. Modern compositions are accompanied by new perspectives on classic pieces, all enacted by the fi nest performers and companies from the fi ve continents of the world.

see website >>

13-29 August 2011Edinburgh International Book Festival

Wander round the literary encampment or enjoy talks from a distinguished company of Nobel Prize winners and emerging talents. The festival offers one of the best children’s programmes in the country, making sure there’s something to do for all the family.

see website >>

2-4 September 2011Edinburgh Mela

Celebrate Edinburgh’s cultural diversity across one glorious outdoor weekend, as local communities put on a programme of adventurous theatre and music, international guests, and mouthwatering food that will delight all those who attend.

see website >>

22-31 October 2010Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Engage with centuries of oral tradition, as ancient practices are brought alive in the present day. The accomplished Scottish contributions to the art are complemented by an exciting showcase of global approaches.

see website >>

30 December - 2 January 2011/2012Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

Welcome in the New Year in true Scottish style at the best street party on the planet. Princes Street is the venue for this unique event, providing a spectacularly scenic backdrop to the festivities.

see website >>

9-22 April 2011Edinburgh International Science Festival

Discover the fi rst festival of its kind, a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that manages to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages and levels of expertise.

see website >>

9-15 May 2011Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival

Enjoy a colourful programme of theatre, dance and puppetry specifi cally aimed at children, which gives the younger generations a chance to experience Edinburgh’s cultural wonders on their own terms.

see website >>

15-26 June 2011Edinburgh International Film Festival

See the latest in cutting-edge fi lmmaking with a full host of screenings and talks straight from the studio. Glamorous premieres, glittering personalities and genuine passion turn Edinburgh into one of the fi lmic centres of Europe.

see website >>

22-31 July 2011Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival

Listen to some of Scotland’s most accomplished jazz and blues musicians as they explore the long history of the medium. Virtuoso soloists and entertaining ensembles offer something for all, from the casual listener to the hardcore fanatic.

see website >>

4 August - 4 September 2011Edinburgh Art Festival


see website >>

6 WWW.EDINBURGHFESTIVALS.CO.UK WWW.EDINBURGHFESTIVALS.CO.UK 7

FESTIVALS MAGAZINE FESTIVAL CALENDAR

one city. 12 festivals.

December September July

festivals magazine

sPRing 2011

Contents

festivals magazine

ContaCt usWe welcome all comments, questions, submissions

and distribution enquiries. Please write to us at:[email protected]

festivals edinburgh4 East Market St., Edinburgh, UK, EH8 8BG

+ (44) 0131 529 6763www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk

contriBUtorSsam Walters and Claudia monteiro

dESiGnEd Bynexus24 Creative marketing - WWW.nexus24.Co.uk

tEMplatEd Bylumsdon design - WWW.Chrislumsdon.Com

2 WWW.edinbuRghfestivals.Co.uk

director’s letter 4Festival calendar 6Edinburgh in the Springtime 9pursuits 10the Voyage Starts Here 18discover yourself 22the Great outdoors 26natigating the Spring Festivals 28Festival Moments 30

24Discover yourselfExplore everything from the outer universe to the inner mind at the Edinburgh international Science Festival


Witness in person the full power of the fi nest display of military ceremony around as talented musicians put on a stirring parade of impeccable skill and discipline, given added gravitas by the unparalleled backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

see website >>


Experience the largest arts festival in the world, presenting a groundbreaking programme of comedy, theatre, music, exhibitions, dance, that is simply second-to-none. The Fringe turns Edinburgh into one giant auditorium which is the only place worth being in August.

see website >>


Marvel at this pinnacle of Scottish culture, in which dance, theatre and music are all elevated to astonishingly high standards. Modern compositions are accompanied by new perspectives on classic pieces, all enacted by the fi nest performers and companies from the fi ve continents of the world.

see website >>


Wander round the literary encampment or enjoy talks from a distinguished company of Nobel Prize winners and emerging talents. The festival offers one of the best children’s programmes in the country, making sure there’s something to do for all the family.

see website >>


Celebrate Edinburgh’s cultural diversity across one glorious outdoor weekend, as local communities put on a programme of adventurous theatre and music, international guests, and mouthwatering food that will delight all those who attend.

see website >>


Engage with centuries of oral tradition, as ancient practices are brought alive in the present day. The accomplished Scottish contributions to the art are complemented by an exciting showcase of global approaches.

see website >>


Welcome in the New Year in true Scottish style at the best street party on the planet. Princes Street is the venue for this unique event, providing a spectacularly scenic backdrop to the festivities.

see website >>


Discover the fi rst festival of its kind, a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that manages to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages and levels of expertise.

see website >>


Enjoy a colourful programme of theatre, dance and puppetry specifi cally aimed at children, which gives the younger generations a chance to experience Edinburgh’s cultural wonders on their own terms.

see website >>



see website >>


Listen to some of Scotland’s most accomplished jazz and blues musicians as they explore the long history of the medium. Virtuoso soloists and entertaining ensembles offer something for all, from the casual listener to the hardcore fanatic.

see website >>



see website >>

6 WWW.EDINBURGHFESTIVALS.CO.UK WWW.EDINBURGHFESTIVALS.CO.UK 7

FESTIVALS MAGAZINE FESTIVAL CALENDAR



WWW.edinbuRghfestivals.Co.uk 3

Contents festivals magazine

Imaginate FestivalSpring is a time for the young, and the Bank of Scotland imaginate Festival

22

Planning for summerStress free summer planning

20

6Festival Calendar Stay up to date with all of Edinburgh’s 12 festivals

Edinburgh in the Spring Time 25 things to do in the Spring sunshine9


festivals magazine diReCtoR’s letteR

director’s letter

pring is a time of growth, re-birth and

innovation, and nowhere is this more true

than among the gothic spires of edinburgh.

as snowy peaks and glistening streets give way to

crowds of daffodils in parks and pipers on street

corners herald in the warmer season, edinburgh

springs back to life, awoken and ready to revive its

quest for knowledge, understanding and inspiration.

edinburgh is known as the festival city, and it is

not without reason- with 12 festivals adorning the

streets, theatres, parks and event spaces across

the year, there is always something to engage the

imagination. but in spring edinburgh throws open

its doors to the spirit of adventure and discovery, to

new ideas and possibilities- to ringing out the old

and ringing in the new.

the edinburgh international science festival and

the bank of scotland imaginate festival celebrate

all that is at the heart of the festival city. the spirit

of excitement, the desire to know, the yearning to

explore new worlds, new ideas and new possibilities.

all of these are the raison d’etre for the edinburgh

festivals, and they are breathlessly and exuberantly

embraced in the spring season.

In Edinburgh there is something around every corner - from the magic of the real to the boundaries of the imagination, your perfect festival experience is just waiting to be discovered, and we wish you well on the journey. We hope that you will use this magazine to stimulate, inform and inspire yourselves, and that you will satisfy your hunger for knowledge and entertainment at one of our great festivals.

Letter from Festivals Edinburgh Director Faith Liddell

sthe edinburgh international science festival delves

into the deepest questions of humanity- the creation

of life, the nature of humankind, and the quest for

knowledge. We invite you to explore our world, from

the wonders of the deep to the jewels of the solar

system. edinburgh is a springboard for re-birth of

inquiry and imagination, and everyone is invited.

nowhere is the ability to demand, question and

interrogate more important than in the leaders of

tomorrow, and it is to this need that the bank of

scotland imaginate festival speaks. known as the

world’s best theatre for children and young people,

the festival encourages the youth to engage their

imaginations and expand their understanding with

theatre and stories from around the world.

Online booking: www.sciencefestival.co.uk Booking hotline: 0131 553 0322

TWO WEEKS OF SENSATIONAL SCIENCE 9-22 April 2011

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/fringe

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/military-tattoo

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/jazz-and-blues-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/art

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/imaginate-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-science-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/book

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/fringe

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/military-tattoo

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/jazz-and-blues-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/art

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/imaginate-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-science-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/book


Witness in person the full power of the fi nest display of military ceremony around as talented musicians put on a stirring parade of impeccable skill and discipline, given added gravitas by the unparalleled backdrop of edinburgh Castle.

see website >>


experience the largest arts festival in the world, presenting a groundbreaking programme of comedy, theatre, music, exhibitions, dance, that is simply second-to-none. the fringe turns edinburgh into one giant auditorium which is the only place worth being in august.

see website >>


marvel at this pinnacle of world culture, in which dance, theatre and music are all elevated to astonishingly high standards. modern compositions are accompanied by new perspectives on classic pieces, all enacted by the fi nest performers and companies from the fi ve continents of the world.

see website >>


discover the fi rst festival of its kind, a refreshingly accessible series of insights into the world of science that manages to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.

see website >>


enjoy a colourful programme of theatre, dance and puppetry specifi cally aimed at children, which gives the younger generations a chance to experience edinburgh’s cultural wonders on their own terms.

see website >>


see the latest in cutting-edge fi lmmaking with a full host of screenings and talks straight from the studio. glamorous premieres, glittering personalities and genuine passion turn edinburgh into one of the fi lmic centres of europe.

see website >>


listen to some of scotland’s most accomplished jazz and blues musicians as they explore the long history of the medium. virtuoso soloists and entertaining ensembles offer something for all, from the casual listener to the hardcore fanatic.

see website >>


appreciate a fi ne selection of works from some of the greatest artists of the past and present alike. edinburgh’s galleries combine their efforts to create a network of inspiring exhibits that span the entire city.

see website >>


festivals magazine festival CalendaR






http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international-fi lm-festival

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/mela

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/hogmanay

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/international

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/mela

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/storytelling

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals/hogmanay


Wander round the literary encampment or enjoy talks from a distinguished company of nobel Prize winners and emerging talents. the festival offers one of the best children’s programmes in the country, making sure there’s something to do for all the family.

see website >>


Celebrate edinburgh’s cultural diversity across one glorious outdoor weekend, as local communities put on a programme of adventurous theatre and music, international guests, and mouthwatering food that will delight all those who attend.

see website >>

22-31 October 2011Scottish International Storytelling Festivalengage with centuries of oral tradition, as ancient practices are brought alive in the present day. the accomplished scottish contributions to the art are complemented by an exciting showcase of global approaches.

see website >>


Welcome in the new Year in a true scottish style at the best street party on the planet. Princes street is the venue for this unique event, which is only one of the high points of a four-day festival of celebration.

see website >>












9 201115MONDAY

SUNDAY

to MAY

the voyage starts here...

Tickets: 0131 228 1404Online: www.traverse.co.uk

Imaginate is a company limited by guarantee.Company No. SC115855 Charity No. SC016437

design: map.ref.ltd. [0141.429.7956] www.imaginate.org.uk/FESTIVAL

Tickets go on sale from

28 March 2011


edinburgh in the springtime

pring is here to make the historical city of Edinburgh seem new again. spring is a time for rebirth and growth,

youthfulness and energy, and a celebration of life. edinburgh offers the opportunity to get the best of the spring on one

of the most picturesque cities on the planet. Here is our list of the top 20 things to do in Edinburgh in the spring: s

edinbuRgh in the sPRingtime festivals magazine

See the best of the springtime in Edinburgh with 20 activities to help you soak up the season.

01 Captivate your children with some magical theatre at the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival.

02 Chill out in the middle of the meadows with a refreshing drink from one of the nearby cafes.

03 Climb an ancient volcanic plug and look out on the whole of Edinburgh from the summit of Arthur’s Seat.

04 Complement the spring sunshine with good food and a blanket and have a picnic in Princes street gardens.

05 Experience some big bangs at the Edinburgh International Science Festival with Pretty Pretty Bang Bang: The Science of Fireworks

06 don’t believe your eyes when you see the optical illusions in edinburgh’s Camera obscura.

07 Enjoy some of the best weather Edinburgh receives, with the spring months seeing the lowest average rainfall of the year.

08 sup a pint of locally brewed ale in the pleasant atmosphere of the Cumberland bar beer garden.

09 Explore the mysteries of the marine world at the Into the Deep photo exhibition in St Andrews Square.

10 fill up with a piping-hot jacket tattie from the famous baked Potato shop on Coburn street.

11 Go on a boat trip and see the astonishing wildlife of the Forth Islands with the Scottish Seabird Centre.

12 have a day at the seaside at Portobello beach.

13 Hunt for clues with the family in a Springtime Scramble at the National Museum of Scotland.

14 live the excitement of the last day of the scottish football season at easter Road or tynecastle.

15 look into Scotland’s past at the city’s most visible landmark, Edinburgh Castle. 16 sample the seasonal local produce of the farmers’ market at the foot of the Castle every saturday from 9am-2pm.

17 Sit at a table on the pavement and watch the world go by on the Grassmarket.

18 take part in a nocturnal Celtic ritual at the beltane fire festival on Calton hill.

19 venture up Calton Hill again by day and appreciate the faux-Grecian architecture in tranquil green surroundings.

20 Watch the most remarkable plants in the world come to life at the Royal botanic garden.

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk


festivals magazine PuRsuits

for one unforgettable summer, the uk will see the cream of the world’s athletic and creative talent flock to its shores. to the south, london will have the once in a lifetime honour of holding the olympic and Paralympic games. Jamaican sprinters, american swimmers and brazilian footballers will congregate and demonstrate their sporting skills at the highest possible level.

the efforts of the greatest athletes in the world at london will provide a fitting frame for the work of the finest performers in the world at edinburgh. the northern capital will make its annual contribution to the arts with a month-long exhibition of creative endeavour from countries as far afield as China, australia and south africa.

together, these three cultural wonders of the world represent a vast spectrum of international achievement. there is unlikely to be a more convenient opportunity to witness such an abundance of talent applied to such a variety of fields for years to come, so make sure to start planning for your 2012 soon!

Next year will be an exciting time for culture in Britain

see website >>

Olympic Games 27 July -12 Aug 2012

Paralympic Games 29 Aug - 9 Sept 2012

Edinburgh Festivals 28 July - 5th September 2012

Olympic Summer

PuRsuits festivals magazine


the Sleepover at Edinburgh Zoo combines nocturnal observation of the animal kingdom with dinner, drinks and a party that will undoubtedly put the zoo’s cats to shame with its coolness. at Cheers! The Science of Wine and Cocktails, a panel of experts will demonstrate their advanced understanding of how to have a good time, through practical experimentation on the audience. then, Mirror Mirror… The Science of Cosmetics examines the underlying importance of science to the glitzy world of fashion. Rounding off the whole festival is The End of the World Ceilidh, which manages to effortlessly unite dancing, merriment, and astronomy under one roof. looking at such a strong body of evidence, it’s hard to draw any conclusion except one: scientists know what it means to be cool.

In the 21st century there is no place for old stereotypes about science. Knowledge is power and this spring, the Edinburgh International Festival brings the coolest cutting edge science to the Spring city. From the science of cocktails to an adults only sleepover, catch our pick of the coolest events for 2011.

The Science of Cool



edinburgh international film festival 2011

the 15th - 26th of June sees the film festival celebrate its 65th anniversary

http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk


all that heaven allows


The world’s most innovative film festival has announced a raft of exciting changes to help them soar to greater heights.

the eiff has always been renowned for

showcasing the finest creative talent in

the world- Manhattan, Blade Runner, Pulp

Fiction and The Hurt Locker have all had

premières here. but this year, the edinburgh

international film festival will take an

exciting step by letting the artists run the

show. With a long history of being one of

the world’s most cutting edge celebrations

of film, the eiff has continued to innovate

with a dazzling new format.

the content of the programme will be

curated by a panel of experts, each chosen

for their critically acclaimed work in the

fields of film and music. those announced

so far are directors Jim Jarmusch, gus

van sant and apichatpong Weerasethakul,

actress isabella Rossellini, composer Clint

mansell, rapper mike skinner [the streets],

and writers griel marcus and alan Warner,

with other illustrious names still to come.

the curators will provide inspiration and

guidance to the festival as it explores

the theme of ‘all that heaven allows’.

this evocative yet indefinite phrase gives

the curators a license to show almost

anything, guaranteeing an interesting and

varied programme. in keeping with this

free approach, the festival will also be

expanding to an unprecedented number

of venues across the city, making use of

edinburgh’s iconic architecture.

the eiff 2011 promises to be one of the

most exciting iterations of the festival- so

why not keep an eye on the website to keep

up to date with the announcements and

updates as they happen?

see website >>



edfests mobile Have the ultimate guide to the festivals in the palm of your hand.

ever been out and about, looking for something to do but unsure where to fi nd it? that isn’t

something you’ll have to worry about any more, because edinburghfestivals.co.uk is bringing its

content to mobile platforms.

if you’re planning to take part in one of the many brilliant festivals, you’ll probably want to spend

most of your time at the heart of the activity. now you can access all of the details on all the events,

wherever you are, whenever you feel like it. the site is fi lled with the latest news, guides, listings and

more, giving you everything you could possibly need for an action-packed edinburgh experience.

Just head to edinburghfestivals.mobi to get all of the information on the festivals right at your

fi ngertips, and really make the most of your time here.

See more at edinburghfestivals.mobi >>

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/summer-festivals-packages-edinburgh-2011

by the time edinburgh’s inspiring programme

of spring events comes to a close, it will almost

be time to begin the flurry of activity that marks

the summer festivals. if you’re thinking of joining

in the celebrations this august, let us help you

plan your visit. We’ve teamed up with a host of

travel companies from around the world to offer

a selection of packages tailored to your needs.

these are designed to give you the holiday of a

lifetime with a minimum of fuss, and include top

accommodation, exclusive discounts and insider

advice about the city.

best of all, every package contains an

edinburgh festivals Passport. since finding out

which of the many thousands of shows is right

for you can be a little daunting, we’ve asked a

time out critic to choose the must-see events

from across the fringe, book, art, Jazz & blues,

mela and international festivals. the Passport

is your ticket to three top-drawer events in one

day, and a guarantee of an experience you’ll

never forget.


Edinburgh is a glittering jewel in the cultural calendar. As permanent home to the largest arts festival in the world, it can lay claim to being the unrivalled cultural capital. With the help of www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk and our partners, you can experience this for yourself, free of hassle.


browse the website >>

get the best of the fest

www.aif.co.uk


artists from China, india, indonesia, Japan, korea and vietnam

join others from around the world in edinburgh for three weeks of

international music, dance, theatre, opera and visual arts.

spectacular festival offerings range from The Peony Pavilion, a

beautiful fusion of western classical ballet and traditional Chinese

dance, to tim supple’s One Thousand and One Nights, a

pulsating adaptation of the famous arabic tales. east meets

west in unique re-imaginings of classic shakespearean stories,

from a one-man King lear to the shanghai Peking opera

troupe’s breathtaking version of Hamlet. or hear the world’s

fi nest orchestras, ensembles and soloists perform programmes of

traditional asian music and western classical repertoire.

tickets for events go on sale on 2 april at 10am, while the

festival itself runs from 12 august to 4 september.

asia meets europe in edinburgh

Take a fascinating voyage of discovery this August, as the Edinburgh International Festival explores the vibrant and diverse cultures of Asia and the long standing infl uences on the cultural landscape of the west.

Find out more >>

http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/tickets


Click here to buy tickets >>

tickets are on sale now for the 62nd Royal edinburgh military tattoo.

the legendary spectacle of military skill and discipline will give 24

performances between 5-27 august.

the tattoo is known for its innovative showcasing of talent from across

the world, and 2011 will be no different. the unique skills of the

netherlands’ bicycle band are certain to astonish and delight festival-

goers, as are the musical buffalo horns of the south african navy band.

the stirring tattoo stalwarts of the massed Pipes & drums and the lone

Piper will also take centre stage for their customary appearance.

audiences at this summer’s performance will also have the pleasure

of being the first to experience the brand new £16 million grandstand.

the stand will include more room per seat and enhanced facilities.

With an impressive group of performers assembled and a state of the

art arena to accommodate them, the 2011 tattoo promises to be yet

another triumph. the event regularly sells out its whole allocation in

advance, so book your seat soon to make sure you don’t miss out.

drumbeat of the festivalsBook your seat for the experience of a lifetime at the world famous Military Tattoo

festivals magazine tReat YouR imagination


the voyage starts here

Spring is a time for the young, and the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival is the perfect way to mark this. From the 9th to the 15th of May,

Edinburgh will be home to this unique celebration of children’s theatre, with an international

variety of talented actors, puppeteers and other entertainers on hand to delight young audiences.


festivals magazine the voYage staRts heRe


good theatre has the ability to enhance children’s lives. it is superb entertainment, able

to enthral people of all ages through the creation of a colourful and enjoyable spectacle.

however, the true power of theatre is in its ability to unlock the imagination. theatre is

the perfect vehicle to introduce children to some of the greatest storytellers of our age -

this year’s programme includes shows based on stories by Philip Pullman and michael ende.

the imaginate festival recognises the power of the art, and brings some of its finest

exponents together.

skilled performers from around the world to join with the impressive local core of performers

to bring the festival to life. guests this may hail from a wide range of countries, including

ireland, belgium, the netherlands, germany and Canada. this exposure to a variety of

cultures and stories can help expand the horizons of youngsters. the internationalism of

the festival enhances the community of like-minded individuals it brings together.

the programme is full of exciting shows that children of all ages are sure to love. there’s

Potato needs a bath, a musical puppet show featuring a variety of vegetables, aimed at 3-5

year olds. for fans of the classics, the 40th anniversary of mr benn sees this show staged in

style by the tall stories theatre company. imaginate isn’t just for children though - the festival

also places great importance on the family. all shows encourage family attendances, while

some are catered to suit mixed audiences. opportunities include is this a dagger? the story

of macbeth, which takes a close look at that famous scottish king and creates an intriguing

blend of fact and fiction. there is also the golden goose, a german fairytale told around a

table where the audience sits alongside the actors.


the voYage staRts heRe festivals magazine

Imaginate 2011 promises to be an exciting and fulfilling extravaganza, which offers something genuinely

worthwhile to young audiences. Such a passionate celebration of children’s theatre is an uncommon find, which

makes the festival a great treasure for Edinburgh and a fine reason to bring the family to the city this spring.

Tickets are on sale NOW at the Traverse Theatre Box Office: 0131 228 1404 or online at www.traverse.co.uk >>


festivals magazine disCoveR YouRself

ith around 220 shows spread across 38 venues,

the edinburgh international science festival has

something to offer to everyone. the programme unites

a varied crowd of academics, television personalities, comedians

and others through their shared interest in science and learning.

the range of topics is no less varied, with the inner workings of the

large hadron Collider, the world of doctor Who, the formation

of scabs and the future of mankind on earth all under discussion.

age and expertise are no barriers to enjoyment and learning.

Kidsspring is the time for youth to flourish and grow, and the science

festival offers numerous opportunities for children to do just that,

sowing the seeds of knowledge in fertile young minds.*

in recognition of 2011’s status as the international Year of

Chemistry, the family-friendly interactive exhibit Atomise has been

commissioned at the Royal botanic garden. it’s a hands-on affair,

full of all kinds of unusual substances and reactions, that is sure

to captivate children and maybe even the odd adult. appearing

at the usher hall is Dr Bunhead in Pyromania, a hilarious show

which features the unhinged scientist from tv’s brainiac in a series

of chemistry-related escapades.

the City art Centre has seven whole floors devoted to child-

friendly activities, all of which can be accessed with a single

day Pass. events include Dig up a Dinosaur, where budding

palaeontologists can go on their own fossil hunt, a challenging

Manic Monster Hunt for potential spies and detectives and a

The Edinburgh International Science Festival has a packed programme ranging from the depths of the oceans to the beauty of the atom, signs of psychopathy to the science of dog training. Discover science, and yourself, this festival season.

W

discover yourself


Jungle Safari full of animal noises. elsewhere, edinburgh zoo

hosts an interactive DNA Workshop, which teaches young

geneticists about animal forensics, while the scottish storytelling

Centre marks its first year as part of the festival with a showcase

of children’s science books. these are just a handful of the

stimulating events available that cover almost any area of interest.

*many events are eligible for the festival’s early bird special offers

on bookings made before 2 april, so be sure to check them out soon!

Adultsscience has a unique capacity to inform and improve our lives

and our future, but such progress does not happen automatically.

the science festival asks eminent scientists and thinkers to identify

the many challenges apparent in humanity’s future, as well as

examine potential solutions, in a series of thoughtful discussions

aimed at a mature audience. Too Many People! Confronting

the Population Dilemma sees a panel of experts including Carl

djerasi - winner of this year’s edinburgh medal - address hard

questions on the implications of earth’s current rate of population

growth. elsewhere, Professor lord Robert Winston explains the

negative effects of some applications of scientific innovation

in Bad Ideas: An Arresting History of Our Inventions, and

suggests how these might be overcome. looking beyond the

planet, Fire in the Sky: Cosmic Threats to Earth is a discussion

between astronomer Royal lord Rees and others about the

dangers we may face from extra-terrestrial sources.

disCoveR YouRself festivals magazine


festivals magazine disCoveR YouRself


disCoveR YouRself festivals magazine

a running theme this year is that of the world beneath the waves. its centrepiece is Into the

Deep, a huge exhibition of photographs in st andrews that charts a voyage to the bottom of

the ocean. elsewhere, the filmhouse will be showing a selection of marine-themed movies,

while several scientists offer talks on the secrets of the depths. some of the country’s most

popular scientifi c television personalities and shows will be in edinburgh for the festival

including perennial favourite Bang Goes the Theory who return with their roadshow

this spring.

the science festival manages to walk the diffi cult path between entertainment and education

with ease. it does both simultaneously, for a wide range of very different people. Join in this

april for a fortnight of learning that’ll put a smile on your face.

Tickets are on sale NOW at www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk >>

these are undeniably sobering topics, but there are also some more light-hearted

perspectives on offer. Incoming! Or, Why We Should Stop Worrying and learn to love

the Meteorite looks to rehabilitate the errant rocks’ reputation as bringers of apocalyptic

catastrophe by suggesting that previous strikes may actually have caused life on earth

to fl ourish and diversify. Zombie Science: A Spoof lecture on the undead takes an

unfl inching look at the science behind nature’s most horrifying phenomenon, and provides

practical advice on overcoming the ravenous hordes.

http://www.rbge.org.uk/the-gardens/edinburgh/seasons-highlights


festivals magazine the gReat outdooRs

the great outdoors

Parks - Relax and PlayPrinces Street Gardens offers the perfect place for a family to

take a break from the City art Centre’s seven floors of science

and is conveniently located right at the heart of the city. it

contains several statues and monuments and offers a striking

perspective on edinburgh Castle. Just south of the old town next

to the main university campus, you’ll find The Meadows, which

is the largest expanse of grass in central edinburgh. in the great

spring weather it becomes a hub of social activity and recreation,

providing the perfect opportunity to people watch or get involved

in the action yourself.

Gardens - Appreciate the SpringThe Royal Botanic Garden is edinburgh’s centre of both

scientific study and crafted beauty. in april you can catch the new

science festival exhibit atomise, but throughout the spring the

gardens will provide an ever-changing and exotic array of sights.

green-fingered types will particularly appreciate the

wealth of plant life on show, and can make good use of the

week-by-week growth guides on the garden’s website. another

excellent place to visit is the Redhall Walled Garden, which

combines its obvious aesthetic qualities with a valuable social

role. situated in the grounds of a stately home, it is full of unusual

quirks, the most notable being an iron age roundhouse. the

garden’s maintenance is handled by recovering victims of mental

health problems, a process which provides a great deal of

therapeutic assistance.

Take advantage of the Spring sun and head into Edinburgh to catch the best view of the scenic city.

EDINBuRGH’S CulTuRAl AND ARCHITECTuRAl MARvElS ARE ON DISPlAy All yEAR ROuND, BuT THERE’S ONly ONE SEASON WHEN yOu CAN ExPERIENCE THE CAPITAl IN Full BlOOM. EMERGING FROM WINTER, THE CITy IN SPRING IS A BEAuTIFul SIGHT, WITH NO SHORTAGE OF OuTDOOR SPACE IN WHICH TO ENJOy THE BEAuTIFul WEATHER. HERE ARE OuR PICKS FOR GETTING OuT AND ABOuT:


the gReat outdooRs festivals magazine

Walks - Revel in NatureThe Water of leith is ‘a silver thread in a ribbon of green’ that

runs continuously through edinburgh. it is home to many different

species of wildlife, including woodpeckers, kingfishers, otters and

deer. Join the walk at the picturesque dean village and follow

the tranquil waterside walk to The Hermitage of Braid, a local

beauty spot somewhat off the beaten track. so why not pack a

picnic and enjoy the tranquillity of the water just minutes from the

bustle of the city?

Wilds - Explore the Hillsbesides all this greenery, you’ll also find some of the dramatic

landscapes for which scotland is famous. the volcanic crags

of Holyrood Park which loom over the city centre offer several

trails of varying intensity, with the climb to the top of arthur’s seat

certainly the most invigorating. if you make it though, you will be

rewarded with the best view of edinburgh around. visible to the

south of edinburgh is the Pentlands Hills Regional Park, which

provides a slice of genuine countryside for the adventurously

minded. With over 100km of paths amidst startlingly beautiful

scenery to follow, there’s plenty to explore.

Edinburgh is a city for all tastes, giving you something to do no matter what kind of activity you fancy.

Spring really is the best time to experience the beautiful environments that anchor the capital’s cultural

greatness, and a chance to see the Festival City truly come to life.

www.imaginate.org.uk/festival/

www.sciencefestival.co.uk

www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk

Websitesour website makes it easy to centralise everything you need to

plan a visit. You’ll find universal listings across the festivals, along

with online tools such as the myvisit itinerary to help you sort

them into daily activities. there are also guides and tips on what

to do in edinburgh while you’re here, as well as all the latest

festival-related news.

see our website >>

You’ll also find detailed information on the official sites of the

individual festivals.

browse the science festival website >>

visit imaginate festival website >>

Brochures

hard copies of the festival programmes will be distributed across

the city, particularly in public buildings such as museums and

libraries. for these and other brochures, as well as personal

advice, it’s a good idea to pop into the central edinburgh and

scotland information Centre.

Edinburgh and Scotland Information Centre

3 Princes Street,

Edinburgh, EH2 2QP

0845 22 55 121


festivals magazine navigating the sPRing festivals

navigating the spring festivalsWith such a large assortment of events to take in over the spring, it’s important to make sure you’re ready to handle it all. Research and organisation are the keys to maximising enjoyment of your time in Edinburgh, but with our help these tasks will be easy.

Ticketsonce you’ve decided what you want to go to, you need to know

how to book your place there. tickets to imaginate shows can be

booked through the traverse theatre box office. these can then

be posted to your home, although it will take 4-5 working days

within the united kingdom and possibly longer if sent to an address

outside the uk. alternatively, you can collect your tickets from the

traverse theatre in person at any time up until the beginning of

your chosen show:

in person

Traverse Theatre

10 Cambridge Street

by phone

0131 228 1404

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/results

http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/resultshttp://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/tickets/results


navigating the sPRing festivals festivals magazine

there’s no need to worry about physical tickets at the science

festival, since it makes a point of being a ticket-free organisation.

Pre-bookings can be made online, by phone or in person, and you

will be sent a confirmation by email. for many events you can also

pay for entry on the door.

in person

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop

180 High Street

by phone

0131 553 0322

buy tickets for the science fesitval >>

buy tickets for imaginate festival >>

festivals magazine festival moments

festival moments

the hypnotic brass

ensemble in a jazzy mood.

outdoor amazement at

the botanic gardens.


festival moments festivals magazine

tall tales to keep

everyone amused at the

storytelling Centre.

soak up the sunshine

at the leith links.


spectacular scenes unfold

over edinburgh Castle.

be enchanted with the

world around you at st

andrews square.

highland dancers in

spectacular form.

Relaxing in the comfort of

Charlotte square gardens


edinburgh festival magazine spring 2011

Documents

international guests

colourful programme

fi nest performers

world of science

cuttingedge fi lmmaking

fi ve continents

true scottish style

edinburghs cultural