Photo Credit: by ℓαurα suαrez
For those of us who live here, and undoubtedly those performing throughout, by this stage August in Edinburgh may feel attritional and close to conclusion.
Seen through the eyes of a newly arrived visitor, or a local venturing out for the first time proper to engage The Festivals, there is so much more to come.
A day or two could garner more exceptional theatre, comedy, music, cabaret, exhibitions, food and drink to last you the rest of the year.
We have balanced a few must-sees with some of Edinburgh’s newest, most exceptional bars and restaurants to get the most out of Edinburgh 2015. The good news is when the circus packs up the venues are here all year 😉
I could, in typical review manner, refer to Andrew Maxwell as the Comedy King of Edinburgh. Undoubtedly, he has such a nuanced relationship with the city from The People’s Republic of Leith to Morningside that he could likely be elected something fancy should the option ever arise. He is much more than that though; behind the killer observation, political commentary and hilarity lies an empathy and universal charm that is unparalleled. In other words, he’s barry at the jokes.
Quirky is an often-used adjective which rarely engages and often means even less in context. It would do Hoot the Redeemer a disservice. Opened just weeks ago on Hanover Street a stone’s throw from the mound, the bar has an extravagant attention to detail and remarkable vision, fully realised with the emphasis on fun. Think 1950s New Orleans Fun Fair, alcoholic ice creams, reconstructed slushies (including a blue Corpse reviver number 2) for the most obsessive bar fiend and staff to die for in an amazing space and you’ll be halfway there before you descend the steps to Hoot’s basement and witness some special nocturnal antics. From the team which brought you the similarly unmissable Panda & Sons, this is its own festival all year round.
Nepotism aside as the actor involved is an old friend of mine, Crash is an utterly compelling piece from start to finish. Andy Duffy’s expertly crafted single-hander tells the story of a city trader’s life unravelling. The script, and Michie’s nuanced, masterful performance lend an intimacy and impact which has seen audiences justifiably packing out the renowned Traverse Theatre daily, but you should still be lucky enough to grab a ticket before it’s done.
The pedigree behind Rose Street’s El Cartel is instantly reassuring, as Stuart McLuskey’s merry band of alchemists are responsible for the award winning Bon Vivant (across the road), Devil’s Advocate (dragging whisky and the Old Town into the 21st century) and more. All that would be incidental, though, if El Cartel wasn’t so absurdly bang on the money excellent at every visit. No booking, but if busy you can enjoy a cocktail across the road, and be escorted over for fresher than fresh Mexican wonderment, frozen cocktails, tequila and agave to cheer the soul of even the most world-weary traveller.
Just one of the highlights of a dazzling Edinburgh International Festival programme this year, which has engaged and excited in equal measure. From stunning opener The Harmonium Project’s through Robert LePage’s 887 and Ivo Van Howe’s stunning Antigone to Chilly Gonzales and Robert Glasper, rarely if ever has the EIF had such a compelling month, while as ever showcasing the very best of the world’s arts. At just shy of four hours, David Greig’s interpretation of Alasdair Grey’s seminal work has captivated in the few days it has been on thus far, garnering rave reviews, and deserved plaudits for a bold and unique theatrical experience.
Hunter Square, just of the Royal Mile and the barrage of flyers and street performers, is at the very heart of the Festivals experience. An oasis of (relative) calm every day til late is the wonderful Civerinos. Expect pizza by the slice and Italian street food with recipes handed down for generations, with an easy cool and tunes to die for. A place to refuel, or hang out unit the early hours with the better informed locals and visitors alike.