It’s the time of year again, when tourists from all over the world flock to Edinburgh to take in the sights and a plethora of amazing, not so amazing and truly dreadful live shows. It’s also the time when Edinburgh residents can’t get moving, parked or peace and quiet for a month. That’s right ladies and gentlemen; the Edinburgh Festival and Military Tattoo are in full swing.
To quote cheesy PR and clichéd advertising there really is something for everyone at the Edinburgh Fringe, whether you like stand up, dance acts, theatre, cabaret, live music or something completely random that leaves you wondering what they had been smoking when they dreamed it up.
Another perk of the Edinburgh Fringe is that you can find yourself sequestered away in a venue that could only hold five people somewhere buried in an underground bar in the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh one minute, then the next show you could be perched on the grass in one of Edinburgh’s outdoor venues (though hopefully not in the pissing rain).
Some standout shows to look forward to this year are:
For fans of comedy, Phil Jupetus, Kristen Schaal (who was in Flight of the Conchords, the TV series) and last years Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Russell Kane with his new show; Manscaping.
If it’s cabaret that’s your tipple: The Club Noir Burlesque show should be a treat (if anyone has ever been to Edinburgh’s Club Noir they’ll know what I’m talking about) and The Lady Boys of Bangkok.
There’s dance marathons, show’s that continue on as long as the audience shout “yes!” interactive versions of Greek tragedies and even a production directed by John Malkovich.
If you fancy a little trip to Edinburgh to see some of the spectacles check out the Edinburgh Fringe website here where you can download a programme or the iPhone App. As for myself, I’m taking a little trip to Edinburgh today to check out the Scottish Independent Record Fair, buy some vinyl and check out some random acoustic acts playing throughout the day.
