What’s on in Edinburgh this week - The Edinburgh Reporter

MONDAY 6TH APRIL 2015

Re-Union Boats History Cruise: a two hour cruise to find out more about the history of the Union Canal. How, why and when was it built? What was it used for, and who was using it? This informative and enlightening cruise will include the history of the landmarks along the canal route to Slateford Aquaduct and will look at the many changes that the communities along the canal have seen. 2pm, Lochrin Belle, Edinburgh Quay, 1 Union Path. £10 per person: please contact Re-Union on 0131 261 8529 to book your place, or call in to the Re-Union office on the Quay. Re-Union Canal Boats is a social enterprise based on and around Edinburgh’s Union canal, bringing people together to develop their skills, learn from one another and realise their potential, whilst maintaining and promoting the canal as a remarkable community asset.

Outdoor Learning Easter Programme: the City of Edinburgh Council, Sports and Outdoor Learning Unit’s Easter Holiday Programme of outdoor and adventurous activities starts today: pupils from classes P6-S4 can join in sessions including mountain biking, indoor climbing, archery, kayaking, canoeing and hill walking. You can book for individual days or a full week’s progressive programme and may be able to work towards outdoor skills awards. To book (charges apply), click here – or for more information contact Lynne Crawford on Lynne.Crawford@edinburgh.gov.uk. Most sessions run 10am-4pm, and the programme continues until Friday 17th April 2017.

For Crying Out Loud: screenings for parents/carers and their babies under 12 months, with a maximum of 2 adults per baby. Babychanging, bottle warming and buggy parking facilities available. This week: The Dark Horse (cert tbc): an inspiring true story, based on the life of a charismatic, little known New Zealand hero Genesis Potini. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4.50/£3.50 per adult.

Lunchtime Concert: George Todica (piano). 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedr al, High Street. Free.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Eco Drama Presents The Worm: An Underground Adventure. Underneath your feet in the muddy brown soil squirms the world’s best kept secret…a wonderful, magical creature called The Worm. Join two nature lovers, Wilma and William on a journey underground, as they discover a family of friendly musical worms and their colourful miniature world. With laugh out loud songs, including one about worm poo, The Worm is a fun-filled musical tale guaranteed to make everyone giggle, wiggle and love the squirmy wonders beneath our feet. After the performance, the audience is invited to see some real worms in a specially designed wormery. For ages 3-7 years: please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult. 2pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets.

Cameo Culture Shock: Blade Runner: The Final Cut (15). Culture Shock brings you the best in cult and genre films. In Ridley Scott’s brooding, doom-laden thriller, a hired killer tracks down a group of androids who have escaped from slavery on a colonised planet. ‘Undoubtedly one of the most influential sci-fi movies of all time….Final Cut is the only version over which Scott had full artistic control, and with its intense atmosphere, breath-taking visuals and lavishly eerie soundtrack by Vangelis it’s an unforgettable big screen experience’. 8.30pm, Cameo, Home Street. Tickets may be booked online here or by calling the Box Office on 0871 902 5723.

Golden Hare Book Group: this month reading Edinburgh author Lucy Ribchester’s The Hourglass Factory. In 1912 London, Fleet Street tomboy Frankie George is drawn into a world of tricks, society columnists, corset festishists, suffragettes and circus freaks. From the newsrooms of Fleet Street to the drawing rooms of high society, Frankie finds herself on the trail of a murderous villain with a plot more deadly than anyone could have imagined… 6.30pm, Golden Hare Books, St Stephen Street, Stockbridge. For more information please contact the shop on 0131 629 1396.

Genetic Me (15): an Edinburgh International Science Festival screening. With the rise of internet-based genetic testing, journalist and neurobiologist Dr Lone Frank has been able to ask questions about issues she and her family have struggled with: depression, difficulty in getting on with people, and more. The film provides new perspectives on the eternal question of ‘How did I become me?’ The screening will be followed by a conversation between Dr Frank and developmental biologist Professor Jonathan Slack. The film is in Danish and English with English subtitles. 6.15pm, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets may be purchased online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 228 2688:

TUESDAY 7TH APRIL 2015

Garden Buddies Club: come along to this new club and help Tom the Community Gardener start work on the Big Lottery Awards for All funded library garden. For ages 5-12. 2.30-3.30pm, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace.

Canongate Kirk Soup Lunch and Fun Bingo; 12 noon (soup lunch served 12-12.45pm), Harry Younger Hall (located through arches opposite Royal Mile School), Little Lochend Close, Canongate. £2. All welcome.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Rabbit Face Painting. For all ages. 2.30pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 10.30am, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court. Also at same time on Friday 10th April.

South Morningside Easter 2015 Holiday Club: a host of fun activities, including Fimo modelling, sports day, Easter bonnet making and lots more, plus trips to Blair Drummond Safari Park, East Links Family Park, and ice skating. Open to all children of primary school age; morning, afternoon and all day sessions offered. 8.30am-5.30pm (5pm on Fridays), South Morningside Primary School, 116 Comiston Road. For information about charges, to obtain a programme or to book, please call South Morningside After School Care Club on 0131 447 6800 or email manager@smascc.org.uk

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: The Folding Theatre Company Presents Jabberwocky. An evil prince is ruining the kingdom; he taxes the people something rotten! To make matters worse, a plague of monsters has descended on the poor benighted people – something has to be done! It falls to (somewhat gormless) Quentin to track and slay the Jabberwock – if only he had heeded his father’s warnings! But Quentin is doing it all for his beloved Cynthia – and the prince has designs on her as well…. For ages 5+. 1.30-2.15pm, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Tickets cost £4/£3/£2 and can be booked by calling North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 315 2151, emailing admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk or in person.

Minecraft Tree Challenge: For ages 5-12. 3-4pm, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Red Kite Animation Workshops: create an animation of anything you can imagine! Red Kite is a Leith-based award-winning production company, specialising in the development and production of children’s animated content; these workshops are for primary school age children. 2-4pm today, Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th April, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. You can sign up for all three sessions or just one, and some drop-in places may be available on the day. To book call 0131 529 5517 or email leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Newington Library Re-Opens! After weeks of renovations, the library opens it doors again at 10am today. Newington Library, 17-21 Fountainhall Road. Please note the library will no longer be open on Sundays.

Easter Children’s Craft Events! 3-4pm, today and 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th April, Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace. Free.

Lunchtime Concert: Emma Smith (guitar). 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Jack and the Land Without Music: Storywalk and Come & Try Harp Sessions. Heather Yule, storyteller and harpist, leads a storywalk around the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Follow Jack through stories, riddles and rhymes as he seeks his fortune and unlocks the mystery of the kingdom that has no music; solve the puzzle to find the lost magical harps and help Jack bring music back to the land. The storywalk will end with a come-and-try session, when you will have the chance to try the harps and learn a simple tune. There are two sessions: the 10am performance is suitable for 5-8 year olds and the 2pm performance is for 9-14 year olds. Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £9 per child, accompanying adult free. Bookings may be made in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings. Please remember to book a free adult ticket in addition to your child’s ticket. This event is part of the Edinburgh International Harp Festival, and will also take place at the same times on Wednesday 8th April.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Angus Arts Magical Miniature Marvels Puppet Making Workshop. Using a fabulous array of materials and methods, create delightful, daring, charming and champion, amazing, astonishing miniature puppets. Create your own scenery, sound effects, music and lighting and help your puppets perform stunning short shows in magical mini theatres. For all ages – children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. (1) 9.45-11.30am, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Tickets cost £1 and can be booked by calling North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 315 2151, emailing admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk or in person; (2) 1.30-3.15pm, Arts South Edinburgh, Inch Community Centre, 225 Gilmerton Road. Tickets cost £1 and can be booked by calling Inch Community Centre on 0131 664 4710.

Bring on the Spring! Free crafts today and every (opening) day in the school holidays (excepting Wednesday 15th April), 2pm, Ratho Library, 6 School Wynd.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 10.30-11.15am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. Also at same time on Wednesday 8th April.

Kinect Gaming: for under 16s. 6.30-7.30pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Bring on the Spring! Free crafts today and every (opening) day in the school holidays (except Thursdays), 2pm, Sighthill Library, Gate 55, Sighthill Road.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 11am, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace.

Easter Crafts: 2pm, today and every (opening) day until 20th April 2015, Wester Hailes Library, Westside Plaza. Free.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Reading Club. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Morningside Heritage Association Film Night: films on the history of the Dominion Cinema and the Secret Garden at Duddingtson – with complementary ice creams from Luca’s! 6.45pm for 7.15pm, Morningside Parish Church Hall, Braid Road. Tickets cost £3 (members free) and must be obtained in advance from the Convenor of the Association, Bob Cunningham, on 0131 447 4757. Tickets will NOT be sold on the door. Annual membership of the Association costs £12 and is renewable in October of each year. If you decide to join at the meeting, the admission cost of that meeting will be deducted from the membership fee.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Art Club with Mark and Helen. 4-5 pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Artistic Collaborations: The Works of John Burnside and Amy Shelton. Join John Burnside and Amy Shelton for an evening of readings from their collaborative works and a discussion exploring the nature of artistic collaboration, the creation of myth and the relationship between bee health, human health, the environment and the arts. The discussion will be followed by a Q & A session. 7-8pm, John Hope Gateway Restaurant, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Tickets cost £7 and may be booked via eventbrite here: a transaction fee applies. For more information please contact the Royal Botanic Garden on 0131 552 7171. Amy Shelton’s exhibition Bee Works: Florilegium continues at the John Hope Gateway daily until 5th July 2015.

Linlithgow 1st Step Recovery Cafe Launch: a new cafe opening its doors to offer support, advice and hope to local people suffering from or living with the effects of addiction. There will be speeches and refreshments before the ribbon is cut by Dharmacarini Kuladharini, Director of the Scottish Recovery Consortium, which has given its support to the new cafe. The cafe will be based at the Longcroft Hall and run by people who are themselves in recovery and who are now committed to helping others achieve happier and more productive lives. 12.30pm, Longcroft Hall, Linlithgow.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Teen Tuesday. 6-7pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road.

The Old Chain Pier Pub Quiz: 7.30pm, Old Chain Pier, Trinity Crescent.

Cavalier Tales: come and here author LJB Fraser talk about Rufus’s life in Edinburgh and his trip to the top! 6.30pm, Ratho Library, 6 School Wynd.

Leith Folk Club: Chesko and Karel, with sensational rhythms of the Caribbean and Spain, + support. 8pm (doors open 7.30pm), Victoria Park House Hotel, 221 Ferry Road. Tickets cost £7 and can be purchased on the door (STA) or in advance via the ticket booking text line: 07502 024852.

WEDNESDAY 8TH APRIL 2015

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Vision Mechanics Present Twitawoo Puppet Show. A host of fabulous Scottish woodland creatures are brought to life – come and share their fun and mischievous adventures and help them look after their home. For ages 4-8 years and their parents/carers. 1.30-2.15pm, Gilmerton Community Centre, 4 Drum Street. £3 per person; please call 0131 664 2335 to book your places.

Explore Learning: Strange Events and Peculiar Happenings. A young writers’ workshop for ages 7-10 years: all welcome, from reluctant writers to accomplished authors! 2-3pm, Colinton Library, Thorburn Road. Free but booking is required as places are limited; please call 0131 337 7401 to reserve your place.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Yummy Chocolate Nest Making. For all ages. 2.30pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Lens on Legs – Life On Mars Animation Workshop. Uncover extraterrestrial life in this two-day event – explore storytelling, model making and camera handling techniques to build your own stop-motion film. For ages 10+. 11am-3.30pm, Gilmerton Community Centre, 4 Drum Street. £3 per person for the two days; booking is essential as there are just 10 places – call Pauline on 0131 664 2220. Part Two is at same times on Thursday 9th April.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Craft with Sooz. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 10.30-11.15am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Minecraft with Joe C. 4-5 pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Making Bird Feeders; make a dinner venue for birds who might visit the new library garden. For ages 5-12. 2.30-3.30pm, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace.

Red Kite Animation Workshops: create an animation of anything you can imagine! Red Kite is a Leith-based award-winning production company, specialising in the development and production of children’s animated content; these workshops are for primary school age children. 2-4pm today and Thursday 9th April, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. You can sign up for both sessions or just one, and some drop-in places may be available on the day. To book call 0131 529 5517 or email leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Games for Everyone, by Everyone. An exploration of the diversity in games, and stories of successful women in the gaming industry. Dr Jo Twist, CEO of the Association for UK Interactive Entertainment, will discuss diversity in games and share stories of some of the industry’s most successful women. She will also take an in depth look at the UK computing curriculum and the measures that need to be put in place to attract more women into STEAM subjects like computer science and coding. 8-9.30pm (doors open 7.45pm), Auditorium, Level 1, National Museum of Scotland (entry via Lothian Street). Tickets cost £8/£6 and may be booked online here.

Image: Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society

Spring Bulb Planting: for ages 5-12. 3-4pm, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Joanna Trollope: Remember Me – A Novelist’s View of Portraiture. Joanna Trollope served as a judge for the BP Portrait Award 2014; she has been writing for over 30 years and several of her novels have been televised. She is also the author of Britannia’s Daughters, a non-fiction study of women in the British Empire, and many historical novels written under the pen name of Caroline Harvey. Joanna Trollope was awarded the OBE in 1996. 12.45-1.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Tickets cost £8/£6 and can be purchased in advance from the Information Desk at the National Gallery or by calling 0131 624 6560 with a credit/debit card.

Lunchtime Concert: Piano Speak with Will Pickvance. 12.15pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free.

Charity Concert: in aid of Drake Music Scotland, with Westfield High School Choir, New Jersey, USA and InChorus, Peebles. 7.30pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Admission free: donations welcomed to Drake Music Scotland, a charity creating opportunities across Scotland for over 7,000 children and adults with disabilities to learn, compose and perform music independently.

Get Organised Spring 2015: John Kitchen presents a selection of joyous music to celebrate Easter week, including the Easter Hymn from Mascagni’s Cavallaria Rusticana, Guilmant’s Paraphrase on ‘See the conquering hero comes’, Handel’s I know that my redeemer liveth, and works by Boely, Healey Willan and others. 1.10-1.50pm, Usher Hall, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £3 per person and can be booked online here (transaction fee applies) or purchased on the door.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Games Tournament. 6-7 pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

eBook Surgery: find out how to borrow eBooks, audiobooks and emagazines using your smartphone, iPad or tablet. Bring your device along with you. 3-5pm (drop-in), Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Hamjambo: Music and Verse in Edinburgh’s Other Languages. Understand little but celebrate all with the city’s performers in languages from across the world. This session’s acts: Sylvain Ayite – Wolof, (Senegal) French and Portuguese Creole, Elyssa Vulpes – Italian, Chesko Gonzales – Spanish, Sam Gillespie – Gaelic, and Valeria Efremova – Russian. 7.30-10pm, Area C Coffee House, 239-241 Leith Walk. Hosted by The Common Weal Edinburgh North & Leith. Please note venue is cash only. BYOB (corkage applies).

Edinburgh International Science Festival: The Incredible Power of Light – Plant Vision. How do plants sense the environment? How do they see each other, and react to their neighbours? A talk by Dr Karen Halliday, Director of Edinburgh Plant Science, University of Edinburgh. For ages 15+. 6-7pm, The Scottish Parliament, Holyrood. Free: to book a place please call 0131 348 5200 or email spbookings@scottish.parliament.uk.

LGBT: Just for Men. A relaxed social opportunity for men who want to meet other gay, bisexual or transgender men in one of Edinburgh’s LGBT-friendly bars. For over-18s. 6.30-8.30pm, Woodland Creatures, 260-262 Leith Walk. For more information please contact Alison Wren on 0131 652 3283 or email alison@lgbthealth.org.uk.

THURSDAY 9TH APRIL 2015

Making Grass Head Characters: for ages 5-12. 3-4pm, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Blooming Marvellous: a spring craft session bursting with life and fun! 2pm, Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road. £4 per child, accompanying adult free. Booking is essential; call 0131 455 7367 or email admin@waterofleith.org.uk.

Red Kite Animation Workshops: create an animation of anything you can imagine! Red Kite is a Leith-based award-winning production company, specialising in the development and production of children’s animated content; these workshops are for primary school age children. 2-4pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. To book call 0131 529 5517 or email leith.library@edinburgh.gov.uk. Some drop-in places may be available on the day.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Joe’s Tricks. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

folding theatre company - Jabberwock — Folding Theatre Company

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: The Folding Theatre Company Presents Jabberwocky. An evil prince is ruining the kingdom; he taxes the people something rotten! To make matters worse, a plague of monsters has descended on the poor benighted people – something has to be done! It falls to (somewhat gormless) Quentin to track and slay the Jabberwock – if only he had heeded his father’s warnings! But Quentin is doing it all for his beloved Cynthia – and the prince has designs on her as well…. For ages 5+. 10.40-11.15am, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Tickets cost £6 (adults)/£4 (children) and can be booked via eventbrite here.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Angus Arts Magical Miniature Marvels Puppet Making Workshop. Using a fabulous array of materials and methods, create delightful, daring, charming and champion, amazing, astonishing miniature puppets. Create your own scenery, sound effects, music and lighting, and help your puppets perform stunning short shows in magical mini theatres. For all ages – children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 2-4pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Tickets cost £6 (adults)/£4 (children) and can be booked via eventbrite here.

Portrait Gallery Curator’s Talk: Beauty By Design. A monthly chance to chat to the curators about the current exhibitions: this time Kate Anderson, Senior Curator, discusses Beauty By Design. 5.30-6pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free: no booking required.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Quintin Jardine: Last Resort. In the 25th instalment in the Bob Skinner series, the former Chief Constable faces the possible end of his police career when a quiet trip to Catalunya takes on a different flavour. 6.30-8pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets may be obtained from the shop’s front desk, by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. or via eventbrite here.

The Drawing Room: image copyright Emma Bowen

The Drawing Room: informal, artist-led drawing sessions led by contemporary artists and reflecting concerns within the artist’s work. 5.30-6.45pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. All materials supplied, no experience necessary. Free but booking is required: please contact the Education Department on 0131 624 6410 or email or email education@nationalgalleries.org.

Refugee Survival Trust and Scottish Poetry Library Poetry Reading with WN Herbert: Journeys – reflecting the refugee experience. Dundee makar WN Herbert will open the session by reading his own poems for half an hour; he will then invite others to read and discuss their poems. Members of the public are invited to contact Sarah at fundraising_volunteer@rst.org.uk if they would like to read a poem in English or another language. Refreshments will be provided. 6.30-8pm, Lauriston Hall, Lauriston Street. Tickets cost £5/£4 and may be booked via eventbrite here.

Fine Art Society Edinburgh Spring Show: a collection of paintings, drawings, photography, craft and design from 21 Dumfries and Galloway artists. Preview tonight 6-8pm – RSVP via eventbrite here, then 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, 11am-2pm Saturdays, Dundas Street Gallery, 6 Dundas Street. Ends 25th April 2015.

Locating ‘True Buddhism’ in the Modern World: a special guest lecture by Professor Stephen Berkwitz (Missouri State University). 5.30-6.30pm, Martin Hall, New College, University of Edinburgh, Mound Place. Free and open to all.

All The Fun of the Fair: selected gallery artists bring all the sights and sounds of the Fairground. New work by Kevin Low, Henry Kondracki, David Schofield, Annette Edgar, and new to the gallery, Lindsey Snedden. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 10.30am-6pm Tuesday to Friday, 10.30am-5.30pm Saturdays, 12 noon-6pm Sundays, Union Gallery, 45 Broughton Street.

Canaries — Teide, Tenerife. Image: Jens Steckert

Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church Thursday Club: The Canary Islands – a talk by Boyd McAdam. 2-4pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Parish Church, 18 West Mayfield. All welcome; membership is £3 per year but you don’t need to be a member to come along! Tea 50p per week. Please contact Florence Smith on 0131 662 1234 for further information.

Jewellery Event: meet renowned Scottish jeweller Chris Lewis and enjoy a complementary glass of prosecco whilst viewing his new ranges in the Portrait Gallery shop. The first 50 guests will receive a National Galleries of Scotland goodie bag, and all attendees will receive 15% off purchases made on the night. 5-7pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

AL Kennedy In Conversation: the multi-award-winning author will read from her work and discuss it with Edinburgh University Writer in Residence Jenni Fagan. ‘AL Kennedy’s books should come with a warning: these stories may break your heart’ (The Independent). 6-7pm, Looking Glass Books, 36 Simpson’s Loan, Quartermile. Free: all welcome.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Expedition Botanics. Join Expedition Botanics in the search for traditional knowledge about Colombian rainforest plants. Learn how to survive using the resources of the forest and help to discover how the people of the Amazon use plants in daily life. Collect stamps in your passport as you complete activities in Forest Survival, Plant Hunters, Food of the Gods, Amazonian Animals, Gardens in the Forest, Wise People and Incredible Edibles. For ages 4+. 11am-3.45pm today and every day until Wednesday 15th April (drop-in – trail takes about one hour), Palm House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Tickets cost £5/£3 and may be purchased on arrival on the day, booked online here or by calling the Science Festival office on 0844 557 2686.

Cafe Voices: The Woods are Lovely Dark and Deep. Stories from the forests with much travelled storyteller Daniel Allison, at the Centre’s monthly session in the Storytelling Court, with an open-floor section for storytellers. 7pm, Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre Presents 3 Bears. For ages 3+ and their parents/carers. 1.30pm, Valley Park Community Centre, 37 Southhouse Road. 50p per child, accompanying adults free; please call 0131 664 2210 to book.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Spotlight On Philosophy and the Sciences. How did cosmology evolve from metaphysics to science? How can the laws of cosmology be tested? What are dark matter and dark energy, and what is the evidence for them? Join philosopher of science Michela Massimi and Peter Davidson, senior curator of Minerals and Meteorites, NMS, to ask the big questions about our universe. For ages 14+. 2-3pm (doors open 1.45pm), Auditorium, Level 1, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free but booking is required: click here to book online.

Chris Tracy: live acoustic session with a selection of classic tunes, old and new. 9pm, Old Chain Pier, Trinity Crescent.

FRIDAY 10TH APRIL 2015

Identity: an exciting new exhibition based on a collaboration between Art in Healthcare’s Outreach Programme and the NHS Lothian’s Parkinson’s Service. A wide range of artworks will be showcased, all created by service users of different healthcare settings in and around Edinburgh. 10am-5pm, St Mary’s Cathedral, Palmerston Place. Ends 22nd April 2015.

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Easter Penalties with Joe T. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Yugen Puppet Company Presents Little Princess Goldtree. A wicked stepmother, a beautiful princess and an all knowing, all seeing, magical trout – just the ingredients needed for a fairy tale! For ages 4+ years. 2pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets.

The Edinburgh Science Festival Busking Bike! A great opportunity for children to get involved in some mind-boggling science experiments and dazzling demonstrations as the Edinburgh International Science Festival zooms into the library. 10am-4pm, Stockbridge Library, 11 Hamilton Place.

Puppet Animation Festival: Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot. ‘A strapping tale, filled with shoes, which promises to be a load of old cobblers’. Garlic Theatre takes you on a fantastical journey to the island of lost shoes, with clowning, mime and beautifully crafted puppets. For ages 4+. 2pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8.50/£6.50 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Reverie (from the portfolio 'Eleven Pop Artists Volume II). Roy Lichenstein, 1965: copyright The Estate of Roy Lichestein/DACS — Reverie (from the portfolio ‘Eleven Pop Artists Volume II). Roy Lichtenstein, 1965: copyright The Estate of Roy Lichtenstein/DACS

Lichtenstein Easter Art Explosion! Drop in and join in a range of activities exploring the work of American Pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. Make an artwork out of musical notes and hear your crazy composition performed. Have fun designing a comic strip and create your own personal ‘Wall Explosion‘ – the perfect adornment for any home! 2-4pm, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required. Also at same times on Saturday 11th April.

Spring Into Leith – Bookbug: for children aged 0-5 and their parents and carers. 10.30am, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Projection: David McDiarmid. David McDiarmid’s studio practice seeks to examine the concept of megalomania in architecture and the means by which the built environment is often designed, constructed and used as a tool for both power and propaganda. In this exhibition the Glasgow-based artist presents a body of work as a culmination of the last three years of research, featuring a new ambitious site-specific installation involving the large-scale projection of miniature scale models. Preview tonight 6-8pm, then 2-7pm Wednesday to Friday, 11am-2pm Saturdays, Interview Room 11, 38 Castle Terrace. Note your intention to attend the preview here. Ends 25th April 2015.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Vision Mechanics Present Twitawoo Puppet Show. A host of fabulous Scottish woodland creatures are brought to life – come and share their fun and mischievous adventures and help them look after their home. For ages 4-8 years and their parents/carers. 10.30am, WHALE Arts, 30 Westburn Grove. Please call WHALE on 0131 458 3267 for tickets.

Eighties Autism Bash! A fun night in aid of No 6 One Stop Shop – Autism Initiatives Scotland. Performances from Kieron Colville, Xena Gabriellefan Jenny Emma Bruce and Mitchell Noble, a Disco Quiz and a chance to dress up in true 80s style. 7pm-12.30am, Shandon Snooker & Pool, 99 Slateford Road. Tickets cost £5 and are available from The Cafe on the Corner, 24a Hill Street or on the door STA. For more information please contact Autism Initiatives’ Community Fundraiser and PR Officer: Holly.Child@aiscotland.org.uk.

Spring Into Leith – Creating Leith: 3D Mapcraft. For children aged 5-12. 3pm, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Family Treats: Animated Short Films. Enjoy an eclectic mix of beautiful visual styles and intriguing animation techniques in this collection of short films, all created within the last 18 months. See some musical seals singing for their supper, a delicate friendship between a rabbit and a deer, a cat and dog who fight in a very unusual way, and a workaholic whose dream holiday is interrupted by some very ancient animals! 4.30pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings. This screening is part of the Puppet Animation Festival 2015.

Bookbug: for pre-school children and their parents and carers. 10.30am, Muirhouse Library, 15 Pennywell Court.

Easter at Leith Library: help to make a 3-D map of Leith. For under 12s. 2.30-3.30pm, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road.

Wolfblood: live DJ set. 9pm, Victoria Bar, 265 Leith Walk.

Puppet Animations Festival 2015: Lens On Legs – Life On Mars Animation Workshop. Uncover extraterrestrial life in this two-day event – explore storytelling, model making (claymation) and camera handling techniques to build your own stop-motion film. For ages 10+. 11am-3.30pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets. Booking is essential as there are just 10 places. Part Two is at the same times on Saturday 11th April.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Badge Making For all ages. 2.30pm, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Dr Bunhead’s Exploding Easter Egg Show! Witness the world’s biggest Easter Egg explosion, rainbow foam fountains, the Easter Bunny bazooka and loads more Easter science shenanigans with the world’s favourite TV stunt scientist. Dr Bunhead ‘turns the science curriculum into a burning, bubbling, exploding ball of fun’ (Sunday Times). For ages 7+. 2-3pm, George Square Lecture Theatre, University of Edinburgh, George Square. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked online here or by calling 0844 557 2686. Also 11am-12 noon on Saturday 11th April.

Easter Holidays @ Gilmerton: Bookbug. For ages 0-4 years. 10.30am, Gilmerton Library, 13 Newtoft Street.

Whose Birthday Is It Anyway? A night of fantastic free folk and falafels! With Grant McNeil, Chris Van Tastic, Jordan Moncrieff, Pete Nicholson, Simon Patchett, The Victor Pope Band and The Mean Reds. 5.25-10pm, Area C Coffee House, 239-241 Leith Walk. Please note venue is cash only. BYOB (corkage applies).

Astronomical Society of Edinburgh: Dr Giles Hammond (University of Glasgow) will speak on The International Year of Light 2015. 8pm, Church Centre, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge. Non-members welcome: admission free.

Image: James Lindsey - Ecology of Commanster — Image: James Lindsey – Ecology of Commanster

Hive Story: Bee-keeping has been enjoying a revival of interest: a new generation of beekeepers is taking advantage of the fact that our cities can provide good foraging for bees. Join members of the Edinburgh & Midlothian Beekeepers’ Association to find out more about bees and what they do for us. For ages 5+. 11am-4pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required.

Pringle of Scotland: Vogue USA cover 1955

Fully Fashioned: The Pringle of Scotland Story. Scotland is the birthplace of the knitwear; it was in Hawick in the Scottish Borders that Pringle of Scotland became one of the first luxury knitwear manufacturers in the world. Marking the company’s 200th anniversary, this exhibition traces Pringle’s history from a small hosiery firm making undergarments to an international fashion brand known for its outerwear. 10am-5pm today and daily, Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free. Ends 16th August 2015.

Edinburgh International Harp Festival starts today! Courses, workshops, concerts, open platforms, therapeutic massage, late night sessions, children’s events and an exhibition all feature in this 34th festival, which covers everything from traditional playing to the role of the harp in healing, and the greater prominence of the jazz and pedal harps. The Festival begins tonight with its Opening Gathering, 7-10pm, Memorial Hall, Merchiston Castle School, 294 Colinton Road. The Gathering is free but numbers are limited: tickets will be distributed on a first come, first served basis at the door (open from 6.45pm). Most of the Festival events will take place at Merchiston, with some at the Scottish Storytelling Centre; ticket prices vary (concessions and discounts are available), see website or brochure for details. Bookings can be made online here, by calling 0131 473 2000 or in person at The Hub, Castlehill. Transaction fees apply. Once the Festival has started, tickets will be available to buy (STA) from the Festival Box Office at Merchiston.

SATURDAY 11TH APRIL 2015

Lichenstein - Painting with Statue of Liberty — National Gallery of Art – Roy Lichtenstein – Painting with Statue of Liberty

Craigmillar Library Spring Break Activities: Treasure Hunt with Sooz. 1.30-2.30pm, Craigmillar Library, 101 Niddrie Mains Road. Any child under 8 years must be supervised by a family member over the age of 12.

Puppet Animation Festival: The Puppet State Theatre Company Presents The Man Who Planted Trees. This multi-sensory theatrical adaptation of Jean Giono’s environmental classic tells the inspiring story of a shepherd who plants a forest, acorn by acorn, transforming a barren wasteland. As much a touching tale as it is an hilarious puppet show, this beautiful, award-winning production shows us the difference one man and his dog can make to the world. ‘Perfect for children and adults’ (The Guardian). For ages 7+. 2pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £8.50/£6.50 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Puppet Animation Festival: The Man Who Planted Trees. A special screening of the classic Oscar-winning animated film about the shepherd Elzeard Bouffier, who over 35 years quietly cultivated a magnificent forest in a desolate area of France. 4.30-5pm, Netherbow Theatre, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Tickets cost £5 and may be booked in person, online here or by calling the Box Office on 0131 556 9579; a transaction fee applies to online and phone bookings.

Gallery of Modern Art Highlight Tours: monthly tours of the Gallery’s collection, focusing on key works. 2-2.45pm or 3-3.45pm, meet at Main Entrance, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. Free: no booking required.

Edinburgh Comic Con 2015: an extensive selection of talent and traders, numerous special guests, lots of events and (on Sunday) a cosplay competition. 10am-5pm today and Sunday 12th April, Potterow, Bristo Square. Tickets may be purchased for one or both days: prices vary, children under 10 years free but must be accompanied by a paying adult. To book see website here, or pay on the door (cash only).

Spring Into Leith: Easter Crown Making. For children aged 5-12 years. 3pm, McDonald Road Library, 2 McDonald Road. Free.

Edinburgh College of Art Illustration: an exhibition by 4th year students, staff and alumni. 12 noon-5pm today, then 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, 12 noon-5pm Saturdays, Doubtfire Gallery, 3 South East Circus Place. Ends 2nd May 2015,

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Dr Bunhead’s Exploding Easter Egg Show! Witness the world’s biggest Easter Egg explosion, rainbow foam fountains, the Easter Bunny bazooka and loads more Easter science shenanigans with the world’s favourite TV stunt scientist. Dr Bunhead ‘turns the science curriculum into a burning, bubbling, exploding ball of fun’ (Sunday Times). For ages 7+. 11am-12 noon, George Square Lecture Theatre, University of Edinburgh, George Square. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked online here or by calling 0844 557 2686.

Spatial Relief (red) copyright Tate London

Possibilities of the Object: Amplified Tour. A special tour of this new exhibition, with portable FM loops for the hard of hearing. 2-3pm, Fruitmarket Gallery, Market Street. Free but please book by calling 0131 225 2383 or emailing info@fruitmarket.co.uk.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Eco Drama Presents The Worm: An Underground Adventure. Underneath your feet in the muddy brown soil squirms the world’s best kept secret…a wonderful, magical creature called The Worm. Join two nature lovers, Wilma and William, on a journey underground as they discover a family of friendly musical worms and their colourful miniature world. With laugh out loud songs, including one about worm poo, The Worm is a fun-filled musical tale guaranteed to make everyone giggle, wiggle and love the squirmy wonders beneath our feet. After the performance the audience is invited to see some real worms in a specially designed wormery. For ages 3-7 years: please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult. 11am-12 noon, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Court. Tickets cost £4/£3/£2 and can be booked by calling North Edinburgh Arts on 0131 315 2151, emailing admin@northedinburgharts.co.uk or in person. The performance will be followed by a free garden workshop, to which everyone is welcome. Come and learn about composting, and enjoy some free soup!

Raoul De Keyser’s Early Works: a talk by Professor Stephen Jacobs (Ghent University). Professor Jacobs, author of Raoul De Keyser: Retour 1964-2006 will focus on De Keyser’s early works featured in the current exhibition in the context of the artist’s oeuvre, demonstrating the way in which certain themes and motifs, which were developed early on, remained important throughout his career. 2pm, Inverleith House, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Arboretum Place. Free but booking is required as places are limited: tickets may be obtained from Inverleith House or via eventbrite here.

Edinburgh International Science Festival: The Incredible Power of Light – Lasers and the Search for Alien Worlds. Over the last decade astronomers have identified hundreds of planets outside our solar system – however planets that could support life are relatively small, so finding them is a massive challenge. This talk will look at how research which began in laser laboratories is making an impact on planet hunting! For ages 15+. 2-3pm, The Scottish Parliament, Holyrood. Free: to book a place please call 0131 348 5200 or email spbookings@scottish.parliament.uk.

Organ Recital: Hannah Gibson (Birmingham Conservatoire) plays Nicholas Bruhns Praeludium ‘The Great’ in E Minor, Robert Schumann Four Sketches for Pedal Piano Op 58, Olivier Messaien L’Ascension (complete), Gabriel Faure Pavane Op 50 and Louis James Alfred Lefebure-Wely March in F Major. 7.30pm, Palmerston Place Church, Palmerston Place. Free.

Puppet Animation Festival 2015: Faux Theatre Presents Celeste’s Circus. Come and join the circus! A first trip for little ones to experience and enjoy the magic of the big top. Thrills and spills, ooohs and aaahs, for ages 0-5 years. 2pm, Craigmillar Community Arts, 58 Newcraighall Road. Please contact CCA on 0131 669 8432 for tickets.

Bruncheon! featuring The Sound of Muesli: local musical talent and DJs creating a chilled out atmosphere, alongside delicious home-made cafe food in the open space of the Drill Hall. Kippers, morning rolls and sweet treats a-plenty! 11.30am-3pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Free entry.

Holyrood Art Club Annual Exhibition: the Holyrood Art Club is one of the oldest – and certainly the largest – art clubs in Edinburgh. It was founded in 1957 and currently has over 100 members. Submissions for its exhibition are selected by an independent professional artist, with approximately 200 being hung. 11am (official opening)-5.45pm today, 10.30am-5.45pm Monday 13th, Tuesday 14th, Thursday 16th and Friday 17th April, 10.30am-4.45pm Wednesday 15th and Saturday 18th April, and 2pm-5.45pm Sunday 12th April, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Ends 18th April 2015.

CoderDojo: a programmers’ coding club for ages 10-16 years – learn all about programming in a fun and sociable environment. 2-4pm today and fortnightly, Drumbrae Library Hub, 81 Drumbrae Drive. Free: for more information, please contact the library on 0131 529 5244.

Buzz Around the Botanics: join the hunt for bees and other minibeasts. Take your ID guide and recording sheet into the Garden, then record your results on the big map. All young scientists will receive a pack to take away. For ages 5+. 11am-4pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required. With the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Open Air Laboratory.

Spring Fling 2015! If you are 50+ and looking for inspiration, a new hobby or interest, a volunteering opportunity, ways to get involved in your local neighbourhood – or something else – the Spring Fling is for you. Over 45 stalls (including Scottish Ramblers, Edinburgh Quilters, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, MECOPP, Police Scotland, Edinburgh Leisure and LGBT Health & Wellbeing) plus giveaways, tasters and music. Refreshments available in the cafe. 11am-4pm, Eric Liddell Centre, Holy Corner, Morningside Road. Admission free.

Edinburgh & Lothians Rock Garden Club Spring Flower Show. Displays of bulbs, alpine and rock garden plants, stalls from six leading nurseries, seeds, sundries and refreshments. 10.30am (show hall opens 12 noon)-4pm, Fairmilehead Parish Church, Frogston Road West. Admission £1. All very welcome!

Portobello Open Door Film Night: The Imitation Game (12A). Based on the real life story of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch), the film portrays the nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant band of codebreakers at Bletchley Park during the darkest days of World War II. 7pm, The Wash House Community Centre, Adelphi Grove. Tickets cost £6/£4 and are available from Popeye’s Sandwich Shop, 132 Portobello High Street, or on the door (STA).

Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Tom Pow and Wendy Stewart. Writer Tom Pow and harper Wendy Stewart will talk and play with music and words. These two art forms can express the same emotion in so many different ways yet influence each other dramatically. How can we marry the two without one detracting from the other? Come, listen and reflect. 11am, Merchiston Castle School, 294 Colinton Road. Tickets cost £8 and may be booked online, by phone or in person: see the Edinburgh International Harp Festival’s website here for full details.

SUNDAY 12TH APRIL 2015

61 Fountainhall Road copyright Andrea Jones — Image copyright Andrea Jones

Scotland’s Open Gardens: 61 Fountainhall Road. Large walled town garden in which trees and shrubs form an architectural backdrop to a wide variety of flowering plants. Several alpine beds, and three ponds, with and without fish, which have attracted a lively population of frogs. 2-5pm, 61 Fountainhall Road, EH9 2LH. Admission £4, of which 40% goes to Froglife (a national wildlife charity committed to the conservation of amphibians and reptiles) and the net remaining to Scottish Gardens charities. Also open on various other dates throughout the summer: see SG’s website for details.

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: no booking required. Supported by the Friends of NGS.

Filmhouse Junior: screenings for a younger audience – this week Belle and Sebastian (PG) (in French and German with English subtitles). In a small Alpine village in World War II, a little boy and a beautiful sheepdog defy the Nazis to help those who are deserving. Director Nicolas Vanier successfully adapts the 1965 TV series for the big screen. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Tickets cost £4 per person, big or small.

Edinburgh Comic Con 2015: an extensive selection of talent and traders, numerous special guests, lots of events and (today only) a cosplay competition. 10am-5pm, Potterow, Bristo Square. Tickets may be purchased for one or both days: prices vary, children under 10 years free but must be accompanied by a paying adult. To book see website here or purchase on the door (cash only).

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Teenage Book Group: if you love to read or just want to read more, join this group to talk about the latest teenage fiction and your own favourite books. Currently reading Claire Furniss’s The Year of the Rat. 2-3pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. If you would like to join (it’s free!) email your details to schools.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

Farmyard Animals: Friends and Foes. A hands-on, family-friendly session with activities, storytelling and interactive displays about the lives of farm animals. Scientists from the Moredun Institute show and tell how they help control pests and diseases, leading to happier and healthier sheep, pigs, cows and chickens – and how this is better for the environment. For ages 5+. 11am-4pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required. Also at same times on Monday 13th April 2015.

Waterstones Presents Irvine Welsh: the author signs copies of his new book A Decent Ride. 11am, Waterstones West End, 128 Princes Street.

St Giles’ At Six: Peter Seivewright (piano) plays transcriptions for piano by Liszt and Rachmaninoff of music by JS Bach and Fritz Kreisler. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.