MONDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2014
For Crying Out Loud: special screenings for carers and their babies under 12 months old – maximum of 2 adults per baby. Babychanging, bottle warming and buggy parking facilities available. This week: 2001: A Space Odyssey. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. £4.50/£3.50 (concession) per adult, book online or call box office on 0131 228 2688. (NB: no screening on 15th December 2014).
Moving Minds: an opportunity to see this fascinating exhibition, created by MECOPP (a charity supporting ethnic carers in Edinburgh and the Lothians) and Gypsy/Travellers. Contributors have shared their memories, artefacts, poetry and photographs, and have reflected on the impact prejudice can have on mental health and wellbeing. 10am-5pm today and every day until Friday 12th December, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street.
Teen Pamper Night – get ready for Christmas! For ages 12+. 6pm, Kirkliston Library, 12 Station Road. Contact the library for more details: call 0131 529 5510 or email kirkliston.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.
The Two Roberts in the 1940s: Dr John Blackwood (Gray’s School of Art) considers the development of Colquhoun and MacBryde’s painting in their most productive and high profile decade. Their work of this period focuses on ordinary working figures in everyday settings, whilst revealing a remarkably inventive approach to figuration and colour. In addition to looking carefully at the key works of this period, Dr Blackwood will also consider the intellectual and social context of these works, including Neo-Romanticism, post-war optimism and Utopianism, and figures such as Wyndham Lewis, Pablo Picasso, Herbert Read and the COBRA grouping. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.
Shot at Dawn: Exhibition Tour. Stills’ Director Ben Harman leads a lunchtime tour of Stills’ current exhibition, Chloe Dewe Mathews’ Shot at Dawn, a new body of work focusing on sites at which British, French and Belgian troops were executed for cowardice and desertion between 1914 and 1918. 12 noon, Stills, Cockburn Street. Free: no booking required.
Gilmerton Library Writers’ Group: come and experiment with prose and poetry! 6.30pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street. For more information call the library on 0131 529 5628 or email gilmerton.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.
LGBT Spiritual Space: Maxwell Reay, NHS Mental Health Community Chaplain, offers a supportive space for people to discuss and develop ideas of spirituality and identity – for people of all faiths or none. This month: individual conversations and information regarding spiritual needs. Spiritual Space takes place within Drop-in. 6.30-7.30pm (Drop-in 5.30-8pm), LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street.
LGBT: Police Surgery. Seek advice, raise concerns about safety issues, report incidents or discuss policing in your area with an officer from Police Scotland in an informal setting – no appointment needed. The surgery takes place within Drop-in. 6.30-7.30pm (Drop-in 5.30-8pm), LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. If you would like support around safety issues or to meet with the police outwith the surgery, contact george@lgbthealth.org.uk or on 0131 652 3281.
Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland: City Vistas – Lord Mar’s plans for London, Paris and Edinburgh in the 1720s. Margaret Stewart, Lecturer in Architectural History at Edinburgh College of Art, introduces these fascinating plans. 6.30-8.30pm, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. £5 (£2.50 students). Non-members warmly welcomed.
Peartree Quiz: know your physics from your psychics? Still in mourning for the loss of 15-to-1? Try the Peartree Quiz: cash prizes, spot prizes and a cash jackpot. 9-11pm (early arrival advised), Peartree, 36 West Nicolson Street. £1 per team.
Highland Herd: The Old Chain Pier Art Exhibition 2014. Works by Edinburgh-based artists Vicki Dreyer and Una Monteith, all for sale. The Old Chain Pier, 32 Trinity Crescent. Ends mid-January 2015.
16 Days Lecture: Male Violence against Women: Links Between Peace and War. A lecture by renowned academic Cynthia Cockburn, visiting professor in the Department of Sociology, City University, Honorary Professor in the Centre for the Study of Women and Gender, University of Warwick. Cockburn is involved in the international feminist antimilitarist networks Women in Black against War and Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. 6-8pm, Teviot Lecture Theatre, Doorway 5, Medical School, University of Edinburgh. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite. Organised jointly by Scottish Women’s Aid, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, and the University of Edinburgh School of Political and Social Science.
TUESDAY 9TH DECEMBER 2014
Dream Walking with Hares: an exhibition of gilded works on wood by Sally Bruce Richards (The Bruce Gallery, Isle of Mull). Open preview tonight 6-8pm, then 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday, The Gallery on the Corner, Northumberland Street. Ends 31st January 2015. The Gallery on the Corner is a commercial art studio providing a platform to exhibit and sell work by artists who have a physical or mental health condition or a disadvantaged background. It was the first social firm developed by Autism Ventures Scotland.
Morningside Heritage Association: AGM followed by a talk by Sandra Dixon on The Open Door, of which she is the manager. 7.15pm (refreshments available from 6.45pm), Morningside Parish Church Hall (corner of Cluny Gardens and Braid Road), EH10 6DN. Visitors welcome – £3 per session. Membership £12 per annum.
Crisis Carol Service: 6pm, Canongate Kirk, Canongate. All welcome: no tickets required. For more information contact eilidhmcivor@crisis.org.uk. Crisis is the national charity for single homeless people, dedicated to ending homelessness by delivering life-changing services and campaigning for change: its Edinburgh centre is at Crichton House, 4 Crichton’s Close, tel 0131 209 7700.
Tiny Tales: Seals and Secret Shores. Did you know a seal pup is born in winter? Come and hear stories of the wee seal, plus tales and tunes of winter by the sea. With storyteller and author Janis Mackay. For ages 1-3 years. 10am or 11.30am (40 minute sessions), Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 per child and can be booked online here or by calling the box office on 0131 556 9579. Please remember to select a free adult ticket as well as a ticket for your child.
eBook Surgery: get help with downloading free eBooks, audiobooks and emagazines. 2-3.30pm, Central Library, George IV Bridge. No appointment necessary.
Music Among The Trees: Dalry Primary School returns to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival with a festive medley of songs from around the world. Take a break from the Christmas rush – all welcome, come and enjoy! 12 noon-12.30pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street.
Dyce and Dante: The Fortunes of ‘Francesca’. William Dyce’s Francesca da Rimini portrays a moment in the doomed affair between Francesca and brother-in-law Paolo, as narrated in Canto 5 of Dante’s Inferno, and reflects 19th century fascination with the adulterous lovers and their ‘fall’ – but the painting’s own history is a strange one. When first exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy show in 1837 it included more of the story than we now see, but until recently there seemed to be no visual evidence of the section that was later removed. Professor Nick Havely (University of York) traces the traditions within which Dyce was working, documents the misfortunes of his Francesca, and presents new evidence from an Italian collection to show how the painting might have appeared to its original Victorian viewers. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.
Edinburgh University Singers: a concert of seasonal choral and organ music for Advent and Christmas. Conductor and solo organ: John Kitchen. 1.10pm, Usher Hall, Lothian Road. Tickets £4 on the door. Part of the Usher Hall Get Organised series.
Kirkliston Quiz Night: enter a team to win prizes. For adults. Contact Kirkliston Library for more details: call 0131 529 5510 or email kirkliston.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.
Collective Conscious: Crisis Members’ Show – a multi-media exhibition of works by Crisis Skylight members. 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday, The Gallery on the Corner, Northumberland Street. Open preview evening 5-7pm, 12th December 2014. Ends 31st January 2015. The Gallery on the Corner is a commercial art studio providing a platform to exhibit and sell work by artists who have a physical or mental health condition or a disadvantaged background. It was the first social firm developed by Autism Ventures Scotland. Crisis Skylight uses holistic services to tackle the root causes of homelessness.
ESOL Chatabout Reading Group (intermediate level): free, informal and relaxed monthly sessions for adults learning English as a second language – practise your English and share ideas about this month’s book. 10-11am, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. For more information contact Mo Boussaboun on 0131 529 5617 or email fountainbridge.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.
The People’s Referendum: Peter Geoghegan launches his new book, ‘an eye-opening journey through the remarkable people and far-flung places along Scotland’s road to the referendum and beyond…the story of Scotland’s historic vote, not as recorded by pollsters and politicians, but as experienced by some of the ordinary – and extraordinary – people involved.’ Peter is an Irish journalist and writer living in Glasgow. 6.30pm, Word Power Books, Nicolson Street. Admission free, all welcome – donations also welcome!
Bookbug Rhymetime: songs and rhymes for under 3s. 10.30-11am and 11.30am-12 noon, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.
Photography Lecture Series: Justin Leighton. Justin Leighton has been in the business of taking photographs for 25 years, having first started a magazine with a few friends when he was 18. Although the magazine folded within 6 months, Justin emerged from the experience knowing that he could take pictures for a living, and he went on to work for some of the most prestigious publications in the world, covering the Balkan conflict, the first Gulf War and the Northern Irish Troubles. He joined Network Photographers, a collective of some of the UK’s best 20th century photojournalists, and won Nikon’s Press Photographer of the Year in 1997. In 2005 Justin took a break from the news and turned to the automobile; he has now been working for Top Gear for four years, taking photos for the TV show, the brand and the magazine. 5.30pm , Lecture Theatre B, Merchiston Campus, Edinburgh Napier University, 10 Colinton Road. All welcome: free.
A Manifesto For The Built Environment: an evening to explore the relationship between people, housing culture, places, industries and economies, with Edinburgh-based architect and Common Weal board member Malcolm Fraser and Glaswegian research and design collective Lateral North. 7-9.30pm, Area C Coffee House, 239-241 Leith Walk. Organised by The Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith. Free.
Bon_Tot and Hedgerow Florist Launch: an evening of cool design-led kids-wear, toys and foraged foliage from two new local brands, with exclusive offers, mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, brownies and mince pies. Hedgerow will also be taking orders for Christmas wreaths. 7-9pm, Lovecrumbs, 155 West Port.
WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2014
Friendship Day: come along, bring a friend (large or small!) and enjoy free mulled wine, tea, coffee and a festive mince pie. 10am-4pm, The Open Door, 420 Morningside Road.
Sing a Sang: a relaxed singing session hosted by Leith-based singer Drew Wright, aka Wounded Knee. Drew has a broad repertoire of songs, from big ballads to wee ditties, with plenty of scope for audience participation. Everyone is encouraged to sing, so please share your songs – but if you prefer just to listen, that is fine. The emphasis is on singing, so no additional instruments are required, ‘just bring your lungs and your lugs’! 7-9pm, Area C Coffee House (in the basement), 239-241 Leith Walk. Organised by The Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith. Free.
Dragons, Selkies and Fairy Princes: An Exhibition of Illustrations from Kelpies Traditional Scottish Tales. Three talented young illustrators, Matthew Land, Philip Longson and Ruchi Mhasane, exhibit the stunning artwork created for Picture Kelpies: Traditional Scottish Tales (Floris Books), a beautiful new series of children’s picture books based on classic Scottish folk and fairy tales. Each book pairs a well-known Scottish storyteller with a brilliant illustrator to reimagine a story from Scotland’s rich treasury of folklore. 10am-6pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Ends 10th January 2015. Free.
Carols at Gilmerton Library: with children from Gilmerton Primary School. 1.45-2.15pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.
LGBT: visit to Edinburgh Crisis Centre Open Day. Find out about the support available at Edinburgh’s Crisis Centre, a 24 hour, 365 days a year community-based resource offering emotional and practical support at times of crisis. 1.15-3pm, meet at LGBT Health and Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street, and travel together to the Centre. Booking essential as places are limited: contact LGBT Health and Wellbeing on 0131 523 1100 or email admin@lgbthealth.org.
Wiff Waff Wednesday: a monthly ping pong night for all ages, with music, drink and great food available to purchase from the Drill Hall Arts Cafe. All welcome – ‘friendship first, competition second’, 6-10.30pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Free entry.
Music Among The Trees: talented pianist Drew Crichton entertains visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival. All welcome, come and go as you please. 2-3pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
The Road to Meikle Seggie: Richard Demarco launches the first formal publication of his pioneering work, ‘an essay in words and pictures’. The essay is accompanied by Demarco’s original drawings, an Italian translation by Silvana Vitale, reinterpreted drawings and an introductory essay by Donald Smith. The Road to Meikle Seggie began in the early 1970s at the Netherbow in the Old Town, journeying to the foothills of the Ochils and spreading out across Scotland and Europe. ‘A defining Demarco endeavour, a fertile source for the arts in all media and a vital expression of shared culture at a time when the European ship is sailing through stormy waters.’ The Road to Meikle Seggie is part of an EU-funded project by the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, Seeing Stories: Recovering Rural and Urban Landscape Narrative. Read The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the 2013 exhibition of Richard Demarco’s prints here. The Festival acknowledges the assistance of the Italian Cultural Institute in the preparation of this volume. 6.30pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Please book your free place by emailing linda@scottishstorytellingcentre.com or calling 0131 652 3272.
National Library of Scotland Guided Tour: a tour of the building and an introduction to the library’s collections and history. 10.30-11.15am (approx.), National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Booking essential, either online or by calling 0131 623 3734. Please inform the library if you have any special access requirements.
Poetry Pamphlet Festive Fair: independent Scottish poetry publishing is going from strength to strength – come along for a glass of wine, meet the publishers, hear the poems and buy the pamphlets! To book a stall contact Graeme Hawley on g.hawley@nls.uk. 6pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. No booking required.
Nordic Film Festival starts today! A diverse mixture of fresh and classic features, documentaries and shorts showcasing some of the most celebrated and emerging filmmaking talents of the Nordic region. This year’s theme is Horizons. Today: I Am Yours/Jeg er din (15) – director Iram Haq’s ‘courageous semi-autobiographical feature, a powerful and moving portrayal of a young woman struggling with love, motherhood and being caught between two cultures.’ In Norwegian, Urdu and Swedish, with English subtitles. 9.15pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road; book online or call box office on 0131 228 2688. Nordic Film Festival is presented by day for night.
Edinburgh Napier University UK Undergraduate Web Chat: if you are from the UK and have any questions about studying with Napier at undergraduate level, join this online web chat and talk to staff and other prospective students. 4-6pm, register here. For more information contact studentrecruitment@napier.ac.uk.
Chatter and Verse Poetry Group Christmas Party – celebrate Christmas in poetic style! Bring along a Christmas poem you’d love to share, and join in the Christmas Poetry Quiz. All welcome – mulled wine and seasonal refreshments available (and also welcome!). 6.30-8pm, Board Room, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Please book your free ticket via eventbrite. And why not come along to the regular poetry book group sessions, 6.30pm every third Wednesday?
Culture Shock Christmas! Seasonal films from the Cameo – today Gremlins (12A): when Billy’s father gives him an exotic pet for Christmas, a horde of gleeful little monsters are soon rampaging across town. ‘Joe Dante’s comedy horror is as scary, funny and subversive as ever’. 9pm, Cameo, 38 Home Street, Tolcross. Book online here or call box office on 0871 902 5723.
Edinburgh Napier University UK and EU Postgraduate Web Chat: if you are from the UK or EU and have any questions about studying with Napier at postgraduate level, join this online web chat and talk to staff and other prospective students. 4-6pm, register here. For more information contact Ruth Swan (UK) at studentrecruitment@napier.ac.uk or Anna Frankowska (EU) at studyabroad@napier.ac.uk.
Common Policy: Deconsumerisation. Remember Black Friday? Dr Iain Black explains why shopping less will make you happier. 7-9.30pm, Area C Coffee House , 239-241 Leith Walk. Organised by The Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith. Free.
THURSDAY 11TH DECEMBER 2014
Russkaya Capella: Russian Choral Music with a Christmas Flavour. A mixed voice chamber choir performing Russian music, Russkaya Capella was founded in Glasgow in 2009 and is one of very few choirs in the UK specialising in Russian choral music. Tonight Russkaya Capella will perform a selection of church music by Russian composers of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Bortnyansky, Rachmaninoff and Kastalsky, some Christmas songs from the 17th century, and traditional carols from Russia and Ukraine. Ditectors: Stuart Campbell and Svetlana Zvereva. 7.30-8.30pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free, but please register via eventbrite.
Creative Mornings/Edinburgh: Ian Sharman, design professional and Edinburgh College of Art tutor, kicks off the first ever Creative Mornings/Edinburgh event – a free breakfast (by Pep and Fodder) and a 20 minute talk on a monthly theme, plus the chance to mingle with like-minded creatives in your community. Ian will explore the topic of ‘”Education” beyond traditional institutions‘. 8.30-10am, Dissection Room, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Free but booking required, online or by calling the box office on 0131 560 1581.
Music Among The Trees: James McNeill plays the church’s fine Wells Kennedy organ to entertain visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival. All welcome, come and go as you please. 2-3pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
A Very Rammy Christmas: The Murderburgers, Billy Liar, The Uniforms and Maxwell’s Dead. 7pm, Banshee Labyrinth, Niddry Street. £3 on the door.
Do We Need Photography Centres Today? Ben Harman (Director, Stills) and David Grinley (photographer and tutor) will talk about the role of Stills, its position within the local, national and international cultural sector, and the particular challenges faced by organisations dedicated to photography, asking how such organisations can best serve their audiences today. A Q & A session and discussion will follow. 5.30-6.30pm, Stills, Cockburn Street. Free: no booking required.
Erskine Edinburgh Christmas Carol Concert, featuring The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland, Cadenza Choir, Chamber Choir of St George’s School for Girls and Caitlyn Vanbeck. 7pm for 7.30pm, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, 5 Lothian Road. Suggested donation £5. For more information contact Shona Langlands on 0131 666 9961 or email shona.langlands@erskine.org.uk. Erskine has been looking after veterans for almost 100 years and is the leading care organisation for ex-service men and women in Scotland.
National Library of Scotland Christmas Fair: yuletide bargains and festive treats galore! 20% discount on everything in the shop – then relax with tasty refreshments and festive entertainment. 6pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge.
Live Music with Guilty As Sin: guitar, vocals, bass and sax. 8.30pm, The Old Chain Pier, 32 Trinity Crescent.
Under 5s Storytime: 10.30-11am, Morningside Library, 184 Morningside Road.
Artist Talk: Julie Roberts. Julie shares her thoughts on the way the human, particularly female, body is subjected to institutional constraints and injuries, and the way she has explored this in her paintings. 6pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed. Part of GENERATION By Night.
Music Among The Trees: Parkside Primary School, Edinburgh’s new Gaelic primary school, entertains visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival with traditional Gaelic songs. All welcome, come and enjoy! 12 noon-12.30pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
Gaelic Bookbug: Gaelic songs and rhymes for young children and babies. 10.30am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.
Remembering the Great War in Words and Music: an evening of songs and words featuring renowned bass Brian Bannatyne-Scott performing music by Schumann, Finzi and Mahler, with the words of Violet Jacob, Margaret Sackville and Wilfred Owen read by Lorna Irvine and Ken Cockburn. A collaboration with the Scottish Poetry Library. 5.45-6.45pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.
Hamjambo – music and verse in Edinburgh’s other languages: ‘understand little but celebrate all as we show off the city’s performers in languages from across the world’. Music in Basque, Arabic and Finnish, words and verse in British Sign Language, Urdu, Gujerati and Latvian, followed by a solo performance by flamenco guitarist Alex Moseley. 7-9.30pm, Area C Coffee House, 239-241 Leith Walk. Organised by The Common Weal Edinburgh North and Leith. Free: please note venue is BYOB (subject to corkage) and cash only.
The Drawing Room: an informal, artist-led, drawing session. Each session is developed by a contemporary artist, inspired by the GENERATION exhibition and reflecting concerns within the artist’s own work. All materials supplied, no experience necessary. 5.30-6.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed. Part of GENERATION By Night.
Take One Action: Open Bethlehem. A special screening presented by Take One Action, Scotland’s global change cinema project. Armed with her camera and a dilapidated family car, Bethlehem-born Leila Sansour returns to her childhood home to make a deeply personal film about a legendary town in crisis – but just a few months into the project, her life and the film take an unexpected turn when Leila’s cousin Carol persuades her to stay and start a campaign to save the city from irredeemable separation. In English and Hebrew with subtitles. Followed by Q & A with director Leila Sansour. 6pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road; book online or call box office on 0131 228 2688.
GENERATION By Night: the season of bespoke, after-hours, events at Modern One continues with a special evening including an artist talk by Julie Roberts and music from Glasgow-based duo BDY_PRTS. Pop-up talks, experimental drawing and the chance to explore GENERATION after dark. 5-8pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. The Gallery Bus will run after hours: see website for details. Free tickets for this event can be booked via eventbrite.
An Evening with Alexander McCall Smith: the bestselling author will be in conversation about his work, including A Work of Beauty: Edinburgh, The Handsome Man’s Deluxe Cafe, and his retelling of Emma. 6pm, Waterstones West End, 128 Princes Street. Tickets are available from the shop: £5/£3 (Waterstones’ Loyalty Card holders). Further information on 0131 226 2666.
Easel Sketching in the Gallery: December – led by artist Damian Callan. A different subject every month, sometimes with a model. All materials supplied. 2-4pm, Main Gallery Floor, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free: no booking required. Also at same times on Friday 12th December 2014.
Silent Prayer at St John’s: as an experiment, the church will be open for silent prayer and contemplation as people go home from work. The session will start with a short introduction and end with a brief prayer: come and experience the peace of God in the busy run-up to Christmas. 5.15-6pm, St John the Evangelist Church, Princes Street. All welcome.
Nordic Film Festival: a diverse mixture of fresh and classic features, documentaries and shorts showcasing some of the most celebrated and emerging filmmaking talents of the Nordic region. This year’s theme is Horizons. Today: Ani Simon-Kennedy’s Days of Gray (15) ‘ in a world where nobody speaks, language doesn’t exist. On the dry and arid plains, men are hunters, protectors of a society bound by strict rules. Men hunt outsiders. A young boy meets an outsider and begins to question his world, plagued by the awareness that as he grows up he faces becoming a hunter himself’. 5.45pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road; book online or call box office on 0131 228 2688. Note: this film has no dialogue. Nordic Film Festival is presented by day for night, and will continue on 17th December 2014.
Festa di Natale: the Italian Cultural Institute invites you to its Christmas party. 5.30-7pm, Italian Cultural Institute, 82 Nicolson Street. Booking essential: email rsvp.iicedimburgo@esteri.it.
Cafe Voices: Midwinter Tales. Join storyteller and author Donald Smith for an evening of seasonal tales, gritty and gracious, with an open-floor section for storytellers to tell their own tales, all in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court. 7-9pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and can be booked online here or by calling the box office on 0131 556 9579.
The Hobbit Double Bill – Plus! An Unexpected Journey (12A) and The Desolation of Smaug (12A) followed by a special midnight screening of The Battle of the Five Armies (tbc). 6pm (An Unexpected Journey + The Desolation of Smaug), then 12 midnight (The Battle of the Five Armies), Cameo, 38 Home Street, Tolcross. Book online here for the first two films and here for The Battle of the Five Armies, or call box office on 0871 902 5723.
FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER 2014
Buster Keaton’s Steamboat Bill Jr (1928) with live musical accompaniment: Keaton plays the effete unknown son of a steamboat captain, who joins the crew to help save the boat from the plans of evil banker John King. Complications arise when he falls for Kitty, the banker’s daughter. The film will be accompanied by a newly composed/improvised score by Jane Gardner (piano), Roddy Long (violin) and Hazel Morrison (percussion). The screening will be followed by refreshments. 7-8.30pm, Lecture Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden, 20a Inverleith Row. Tickets £7/£5 (members and children): call the Membership Office on 0131 552 5339 to book.
Carols in the Car Park: enjoy 15 minutes of fun carols! 5pm, Car Park, St Mary Magdalene Church, Bingham Avenue. All welcome.
Family Christmas Ceilidh: family friendly ceilidh dancing and lots of tasty food. 5-7.30pm (dancing 5.30-7pm), Fort Community Centre, 25 North Fort Street. All welcome! Tickets £3 adults, £1 child, £8 family: stovies and refreshments available to buy. Call 0131 553 1074 for more information.
Easel Sketching in the Gallery: December – led by artist Damien Callan. A different subject every month, sometimes with a model. All materials supplied. 2-4pm, Main Gallery Floor, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free: no booking required.
Earth’s EP Launch: indie-folk country-punk from the quartet, launching their EP The Tragedy of Progress, with guests (tbc). 7-10pm, Henry’s Cellar Bar, Morrison Street.
Express Yourself: a new exhibition at which you can discover more about those who are, or were, involved in collecting, creating or commissioning jewellery, including leading UK jewellers David Watkins and Wendy Ramshaw, collector Terry Brodie-Smith and fashion designer Jean Muir. 10am-5pm, Exhibition Gallery 3, Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free: ends 29th March 2015. Note: museum closed Christmas Day and open 12 noon-5pm on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Music Among The Trees: James McNeill plays the church’s fine Wells Kennedy organ to entertain visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival. All welcome, come and go as you please. 2-3pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
Centipede Project Bulb Planting Day on the Labyrinth: help to plant 7,000 bulbs – you will be rewarded with free soup, sandwiches and hot chocolate! 1-3.30pm, Old Kirk and Muirhouse Church, Pennywell Gardens. All welcome. The Centipede Project aims to bring the community of North Edinburgh together: more information here.
Boda’s Christmas Singalong with Adam Black, 7.30pm, Boda’s Bar, Leith Walk
The University of Edinburgh Guest Writers Series: Helen Oyeyemi in conversation with University writer in residence Jenni Fagan. Helen Oyeyemi is the author of five novels, including White is for Witching, which won the Somerset Maugham award. She was recently included on the acclaimed Granta Best of Young British Novelists list. Her most recent novel is Boy, Snow, Bird. 6pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson Loan. Free: please arrive early.
Freeze Frame Film Friday: an informal monthly evening of flickering images drawn from classic old favourites. Free popcorn and good company, alongside the Drill Hall Arts Cafe’s special celluloid menu inspired by the films themselves. ‘An evening of nostalgic drama, laughter and tears’. Come early and enjoy a movie meal, or just come for the film (drinks and snacks available to purchase). This month: It’s A Wonderful Life (U) ‘The most loved Christmas film of all time.’ Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 8pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Entry to film only £2.50/£2 payable on the door or in advance from the cafe (recommended this month!): 3 course meal £15, pre-booking essential: call the cafe on 0131 555 7100.
LGBT Women’s Wellbeing Group: Winter. A meal out to celebrate the end of the year: contact alison@lgbthealth.org or call her on 0131 652 3283 for details.
Christmas Crafts For All The Family: 2-3pm, Kirkliston Library, 12 Station Road and South Queensferry Library, 9 Shore Road. Free.
Everyday’s A Birthday At Area C! A ‘crackling afternoon’ of music with Clare Brierley, Mo Ford, Mellow Chants, Little Love & The Friendly Vibes, The Bluesberries, Will’s Band, Ailsa Bates, and the Victor Pope Band. 4.20pm onwards, Area C Coffee House , 239-241 Leith Walk. Free.
Anatomy #10: The Frost Kid Gang Go To Desolationland. Who are the Frost Kid Gang? What will happen to them in Desolationland? Will TV-Christmas be, for once, saved? Find out at this Crimboween Special. Anatomy is a live art variety show and can feature anything from chainsaw burlesque to found theatre, political punk spit to ballet, electro-acoustic destruct-o-bots to meditative ohm. For ages 18+ only. 8pm, Anatomy Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £6: book online here or call the box office on 0131 560 1581. Note: features strobes, nudity and loud noises.
EMMS International Church Road Show: join singer Eloho Efemuai and international Christian healthcare charity EMMS for a special evening of live gospel music and inspirational stories. Dr Cornelius Huwa will talk about EMMS International’s work in providing compassionate healthcare and pain relief to cancer sufferers in Malawi. All proceeds from tickets and donations on the night will be matched by the UK Government’s Match funding scheme. 7.30-9.15pm (doors open 7pm), St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Tickets cost £5 each and can be obtained via eventbrite, on the door or by contacting EMMS direct on 0131 313 3828 or email: events@emms.org.
SATURDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2014
Can’t Dance Cameron: Emily Dodd introduces her new book, the tale (or tail?) of a capercaillie bird who doesn’t think he can dance. Emily is a former Reader-In-Residence at the library. For ages 4-7. 1-2pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. For more information and to book your place, call the library on 0131 529 5517 or email leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.
Santa arrives in Linlithgow! He’ll be at the Linlithgow Canal Basin this afternoon, with an age-appropriate gift for every child followed by a free boat trip for all the family. The tea room will be serving non-alcoholic hot punch, mince pies and cakes beside a log fire. 2-4pm, Linlithgow Canal Basin. £5 per child. Also at same times on Sunday 14th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st December 2014. The Linlithgow Union Canal Society is a charity set up to promote the use and restoration of the Union Canal; everything is run by volunteers – new members welcome!
Edinburgh Printmakers: Making Do – Upcycling Workshop. Explore the theme of ‘making do’ through story and art with upcycled materials. Storyteller and artist Owen Pilgrim uses stories and myth to see how themes are relevant to us today, to observe how we live and how tradition creates culture; he helps children to connect to the natural environment through story and nature-based activities. For ages 7+. 1.30-4pm, Edinburgh Printmakers, 23 Union Street. Tickets cost £5 per person and can be booked via eventbrite or by calling 0131 557 2479.
Saint Lucia Swedish Carol Singing: a celebration of St Lucia guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. 7pm – Sofi’s Bar, 65 Henderson Street, 7.30pm – Boda’s Bar, 229 Leith Walk, 8pm – Victoria, 265 Leith Walk, 8.30pm – Joseph Pearce’s, 23 Elm Row, 9pm – Hemma, 75 Holyrood Road.
Out of the Blue Christmas Market with Bruncheon: lots of stalls with everything from jewellery and art to willow baskets, jam, furniture, lamps, knitwear, textiles and vintage, plus live music from the Drill Hall’s monthly Bruncheon event – performances from local musicians will provide the perfect accompaniment to your festive shopping. 11am-5pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. £1 entry.
Music Among The Trees: talented pianist Drew Crichton entertains visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival. All welcome, come and go as you please. 12 noon-1pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
All Together Now? A Disability History Month Scotland event. The launch of a locally made animation, using the words of impaired people today to describe the changes in society and the emergence of rights for disabled people from the beginning of World War One, plus two more short, grassroots, social commentary films from ELREC and Camcord Guerillas. The screenings will be followed by a Q & A session to discuss the making of the animation with Muckle Hen, history and activism in Scotland today. 1pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Free tickets can be obtained from Disability History Scotland at admin@disabilityhistoryscotland.org. Funded by HLF.
Music Among The Trees: Recorder Group. A group of talented recorder players brings harmony and variety to entertain visitors to the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival. All welcome, come and go as you please. 2-3pm, The Sanctuary, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. Free.
Cowgate Pop-Up Market: Cowgate’s venues open their doors for a new event quite unlike their usual offerings, bringing together Edinburgh’s creative community and showcasing places that you may not otherwise think to visit. Arts and crafts, clothing, vintage, music and food market. 1-5pm, various venues including The Bongo Club and Sneaky Pete’s, Cowgate – for more information see event’s Facebook page.
Limited Edition: a showcase of Edinburgh College of Art 3rd Year Jewellery Students’ work. 10am-5pm, Learning Centre, Level 2, National Museum of Scotland. Also open at same times on Sunday 14th December 2014.
Sofi’s Singles Night: a festive special with Lucia Singers! 8pm, Sofi’s Bar, 65 Henderson Street
Institut Francais/French Institute Open House: explore the Institute’s activities, discover all the brand new courses on offer for winter, meet the teachers and attend a mini-course to give you a taster for next term. Children can enjoy a free French session with tales, songs and games while parents treat themselves with a cafe and croissant. The Institut Francais encourages cross-cultural exchange and offers French courses, talks, live music and theatre performances, film screenings, library collections, children’s activities and festivals. 10am-3pm, Institut Francais d’Ecosse, 13 Randolph Crescent.
Nature’s Festive Wonders: create beautiful botanical-themed festive decorations using natural and recycled materials. For all ages. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required. Also at same times on Sunday 14th December 2014.
Penicuik Community Arts Hootenanny: Christmas Party with Penicuik Folk Club. Programme for children and the young at heart begins at 6pm with Ramona; adult party from 7.30pm, with musical turns, poetry readings and jokes, all from the floor. Children are welcome to stay on and join in with the adults. A light supper and mulled wine will be provided. 6-10.30pm, Penicuik Community Arts, 2-4 West Street, Penicuik. Free and unticketed – ‘a warm welcome to all the family throughout the night’.
GENERATION Tours at Modern One: free, discussion-led tours of the exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free and unticketed.
The Story Kist: Inclusive Storytelling. Cosy, snowy winter tales with storytellers Ailie Findlay and Marie Louise Cochrane. Woolly socks and woolly puppets…come and enjoy some multi-sensory stories with props and games and lots of joining in. Plenty of fun for everyone, but especially for children with additional needs, their families, friends and carers. 11am, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 per child and can be booked online here or by calling the box office on 0131 556 9579. Please remember to book a free adult ticket too.
Deck The Halls! If you are stumped for gift ideas, let NGS inspire you – and make your own unique festive decorations under the giant Christmas tree! 2-4pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: drop-in.
St Mary’s Music School: a young string quintet of musicians from the school, who have for the last year been working together as a chamber group, will perform one of the greatest works of all chamber music, Franz Schubert’s String Quintet in C Minor. 12 noon-1pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free.
Culture Shock Christmas! Seasonal films from the Cameo – today The Nightmare Before Christmas (PG) The King of Halloween Town discovers the delights of Christmas, but his ghoulish subjects can’t quite get the holiday right. ‘A magical non-stop animation’ based on a Tim Burton story. 2.45pm, Cameo, 38 Home Street, Tolcross. Book online here or call box office on 0871 902 5723.
Winter Guided Walk: join a garden guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Botanic Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, meet at John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. £5 per person, no advance booking required. Also at same time on Sunday 14th December 2014.
NMS Christmas Crafternoon 2: come and make a lovely Christmas decoration inspired by the National Museum’s collections. 12 noon-4pm (drop-in), National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free. Also at same times on Sunday 14th December 2014.
Scottish Society of Artists Winter Social. Get Christmassy, get creative – take a break from the Christmas shopping and join the SSA, friends and families for a festive celebration of the 117th annual show. All ages are invited to participate in a range of activities devised and delivered by featured artists and collaborators, exploring aspects of the exhibition, artwork and themes with a seasonal slant. Create beautiful paper chains and deck the halls with Christmas garlands. Music, poetry, pop-up tours, interventions and more. 12 noon-4pm, Royal Scottish Academy, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound.
LGBT Winter Concert: an annual festive favourite, celebrating local LGBT talent and community spirit. Live music, spoken word and poetry from Edinburgh Gay Men’s Chorus, Loud and Proud Choir (tbc) and Shaz, Jules and Pawel, with a special performance from Jo Clifford and other guests. A family friendly event with seasonal treats for all – toast the old and new years! 3-5pm, St Mark’s Unitarian Church, 7 Castle Terrace (venue is wheelchair accessible). £5/£2.50 (unwaged): booking essential – and book early as this is a popular event and seating is limited – online here or by contacting Jules on 0131 523 1100 or jules@lgbthealth.org.uk.
A Very Scottish Christmas (PG): professional Christmas researcher Dr Clause needs help to understand Christmas customs in Scotland. She’s found some films that demonstrate a number of interesting activities – can you help her investigate the Christmas traditions and write a letter for her to take back to S.A.N.T.A? A fun family event created by the Scottish Screen Archive and theatre-maker Geraldine Heaney. For ages 7+. Bring your favourite toy to this special, Christmas-themed event, which will include colour and black and white film footage from the 1930s to the 1960s. 1.30-2.35pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. £3.50 per person: book via website or call box office on 0131 228 2688.
Scots Music Group Ceilidh with the Robert Fish Band: 7.30pm-midnight, St Bride’s Centre, 10 Orwell Terrace. Licensed bar – no BYOB; water available at no charge. Tickets £10/£8 on the door or £8/£6 in advance, either from the St Bride’s Centre on 0131 346 1405 (or in person) or direct from the Scots Music Group on 0131 555 7668.
Boda’s Christmas Craft Fair: a chance to view some excellent local crafts and a great opportunity to purchase some unique Christmas presents. Mulled wine and cider available throughout the day. 1-4pm, Boda’s Bar, 229 Leith Walk. Free entry.
SUNDAY 14TH DECEMBER 2014
Filmhouse Junior: Rise of the Guardians (PG). An animation for the festive season: an evil spirit plans to take over the world using fear – Jack Frost, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny and the Sandman need to join forces in order to protect the Earth’s children and stop this new menace. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. £3.50 per person, big or small: book via website or call box office on 0131 228 2688.
Christian Aid Carol Service: 5pm, Portobello Baptist Church, 189 Portobello High Street.
Edinburgh Living History and World War One: against the background of the Centre’s iconic World War One paintings, meet some Edinburgh locals from 1916, who will be discussing the war, its progress, and its impact on their own lives and on the city of Edinburgh. Come and eavesdrop on their conversations! For all ages. 2pm or 3pm, City Art Centre, Market Street. Free and unticketed. The Living History teams are award-winning performers. This event will be repeated on 4th and 10th January 2015.
Cameo Vintage Sundays: Miracle on 34th Street (U). When Macy’s department store hires a new Father Christmas, event director Doris Walker and her daughter are nonplussed by his insistence that he is the real Santa. 1pm, Cameo, 38 Home Street, Tolcross. Book online here or call box office on 0871 902 5723.
NMS Christmas Crafternoon 2: come and make a lovely Christmas decoration inspired by the National Museum’s collections. 12 noon-4pm (drop-in), National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free.
Portrait Detectives: collect your kit, follow clues, and solve a mystery from history! For ages 4-12. 2-4pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.
NMS Christmas Choirs: get into the festive spirit with Christmas concerts from local choirs. 2pm (Edinburgh Youth Choir), 3pm (Accord) and 4pm (Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers), National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free.
Limited Edition: a showcase of Edinburgh College of Art 3rd Year Jewellery Students’ work. 10am-5pm, Learning Centre, Level 2, National Museum of Scotland.
St Andrew’s and St George’s West Service of Lessons and Carols: the theme of this service will be Hope Restored. Music will led by the church choir, directed by Brigitte Harris. 11-11.55am, St Andrew’s and St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. All welcome.
Summerhall Christmas Market 2014: over 45 fantastic stallholders offering unique Christmas gifts (including food, beers, textiles, jewellery, skin care, art, dog treats, crafts and books), plus carols from the Summerhall Singers. Gluhwein and food available to purchase from four food vendors: Children’s Room open to entertain the little ones. Christmas trees for sale in the courtyard (trees available all month). 11am-5pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Entry £2 (payable on the door), under 18s free.
Filmhouse Film Quiz: the ‘phenomenally successful (and rather tricky)’ monthly quiz. Teams of up to 8 people must be seated in the Cafe Bar by 9pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Free to enter.
Blackwell’s Edinburgh Teenage Book Group: the teen book group meets on the second Sunday of each month, to discuss anything from classics to contemporary, historical to dystopian – whatever you like. Currently reading Belzhar by Meg Wolitzer. 2-3pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join the group (it’s free!), just email your details to schools.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.
Carols on the Steps: the ‘Silent Night’ will be broken by the sound of ‘Angels from the Realms of Glory‘ as the local community join together for carols on the church steps. There will be an opportunity to warm up – physically and vocally! – in the church first, before heading out onto the steps; come along and enjoy carols and seasonal refreshments. 6.30pm (in the church), then 7-8pm on the steps, Barclay Viewforth Church, Wright’s Houses, Bruntsfield.
Nature’s Festive Wonders: create beautiful botanical-themed festive decorations using natural and recycled materials. For all ages. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required.
Portobello Film Club Presents Kids Christmas Day At The Skylark: The Snowman, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and Portobello-based charity Orcadia’s own film The Day We Saved Santa, plus live music from Keith McDougall and his guitar! 2pm, The Skylark, 241/243 Portobello High Street.
The Maths Behind The Imitation Game: The Imitation Game focuses on the life of Alan Turing, a famous British mathematician, logician, cryptanalyst, philosopher, computer scientist, mathematical biologist and marathon runner. In a panel discussion organised by the University of Edinburgh, experts in several fields will talk about the legacy of Turing’s work and its importance in our lives today, with a chance for the audience to ask questions inspired by the film. 12 noon-1pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Free.
Seafield Christmas Memorial Service: conducted by the Rev Bill Armitage. All welcome: refreshments will be provided. 3pm, Seafield Crematorium, Seafield Road.
Winter Guided Walk: join a garden guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the Botanic Garden. Discover stunning seasonal highlights and learn about the history of the garden and its plants. For ages 14+. 2pm, meet at John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. £5 per person, no advance booking required.
Zoo Arts Extra December Beach Day: forget about Christmas shopping – stock up on some real happiness! Bring your family and friends for an afternoon of sand, sea, sky, fire, food and art. For families: children under 9 should be accompanied by a responsible adult. There are limited places for unaccompanied children; please book early and sign a permission form if you wish your child to attend by him/herself. Meet at 12 noon at North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Road for a pleasant 25 minute walk to the beach, returning around 4pm. Free (donations welcome) – £1 deposit secures your place, snacks and drinks. Zoo Arts will provide snacks, hot drinks, extra waterproofs, fire, creative materials and activities. All welcome! For more information and to book, contact North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 332 2521.
Luke Fowler and Lee Patterson: Performance for Invented Acoustical Tools and Synthesis. To accompany, and respond to, Tony Conrad’s current Acoustical Tools exhibition, artists Fowler and Patterson present a musical performance celebrating Conrad’s use of invented instruments and its influence on a new generation of musicians. 7-9pm, Inverleith House, Royal Botanic Garden, 20a Inverleith Row. Tickets cost £5 and can be booked via eventbrite.
Santa in Linlithgow! He’ll be at the Linlithgow Canal Basin this afternoon, with an age-appropriate gift for every child followed by a free boat trip for all the family. The tea room will be serving non-alcoholic hot punch, mince pies and cakes beside a log fire. 2-4pm, Linlithgow Canal Basin. £5 per child. Also at same times on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st December 2014. The Linlithgow Union Canal Society is a charity set up to promote the use and restoration of the Union Canal; everything is run by volunteers – new members welcome!
10th Anniversary Great Edinburgh Family Fun Run and Walk – a family event where even the family pet is invited to come along and join in the festivities. Prizes for the Best Decorated Pushchair, Best Dog Dressed for Christmas, Best Individual Fundraiser and Best Fundraising Company Team. If you would like to take part (Santa costumes are provided), the full instructions for registering, checking-in, footwear, sponsorship, etc can all be found on the dedicated website here. 9-10.30am – registration, 10.30am, warm up with Donna Giffen, 11am – run starts, West Princes Street Gardens. Title sponsors: Scotmid Cooperative. All money raised will go to When You Wish Upon A Star, a charity granting special wishes for children living with life-threatening illnesses.
