MagicFest 2025
The 16th edition of MagicFest will take place this month with two world premieres and Kevin Quantum’s own Christmas Show.
Organiser and co-founder of MagicFest, Kevin Quantum, said: “It’s hard to believe that Edinburgh has now had its own festival of magic for 16 years, and it just gets more exciting every time around.
“For 2025 we not only have some of the top acts from Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond but have two brand new shows.
“The aim is to bring a special spark of fun to the festive season with great entertainment especially for adults, young people and children – plus lots that the whole family will enjoy together.”
MagicFest Producer co-founder Svetlana McMahon said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be working with such an inspiring creative team on this project — and to be developing it in the newly refurbished building of our community partner, North Edinburgh Arts.
“We’re also hugely grateful to the partners supporting Shape Shifters: The City of Edinburgh Council’s Diversity and Inclusion Fund, the National Lottery Open Fund for Organisations through Creative Scotland, and Kiran’s Trust.”
These are just two of the highlights (more tomorrow!)
Christmas Special: Kevin Quantum and guests in a riotous full-evening magic show on the big stage, with spectacular illusions and oodles of family-friendly fun.
- Prices: £20.00 – £24.50
- Dates: 22-30 December
- Times: 23 and 23 December 14:00 and 19:00. Other dates 12:00 and 16:00
- Church Hill Theatre, Morningside Road, Edinburgh, EH10 4DR
- Age: 5+
Shape Shifters: A joyful magical dance adventure for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups, celebrating identity, difference, and the friendships we build when we find the courage to be ourselves.
- Tickets: £5
- Date: Sat 20 Dec 11:00 and 15:00
- Duration: 45 mins
- North Edinburgh Arts, 12c Macmillan Cresent, Edinburgh, EH4 4AB.
- Ages: 3+
- Full line up and tickets here www.magicfest.co.uk
Residents choose the safest design for the Polwarth roundabout
A consultation on which design to choose for the Polwarth roundabout ended in September when several options were laid out.
Many people responded and made “thoughtful and constructive responses”. Out of 144 responses, 111 supported Option 1.
The design will now proceed in late 2026/early 2027. First there will be an independent Road Safety Audit and the council will have to pass the Traffic Regulation Orders. The contract will then be offered for tender.
People expressed concerns about the east/west crossing at the north end of Merchiston Avenue, but supported Option 1 with Pedestrian Refuge. Concerns were also raised over traffic speed and volume management which must be extended beyond the junction.
Owing to concern over the north end of Merchiston Avenue where children cross on their way to and from school, there is scope for more improvement. Respondents want more action to restrict rat-running – and particularly speeding on Granville Terrace and Polwarth Gardens. The council proposes installing a raised table, building out pavements and narrowing the carriageway. They will also improve signage and will change nightlines near pedestrian crossings.
The Merchiston and District Community Council (MDCC) has responded to the consultation thanking everyone who replied. There is still more work to do and the council is responding to the consultation responses. Follow MDCC on Bluesky for updates.
When You Wish Upon a Star
The charity makes dreams come true for children who are ill. There are around 130,000 children and their families attending hospitals regularly who just need a break from the routine and a moment of magic.
This Christmas help grant the next wish. Barbara White, Founder of When You Wish Upon a Star said: “Your gift will bring joy and hope during a child’s darkest days.”
Greenwell Wynd speeding
Ian Murray MP wants to hear from you if you are concerned about speeding on Greenwell Wynd
He has contacted the council and a speed survey was carried out last month. The results will be reported in mid December and then the council will decide on any traffic calming measures.
Ground breaking ceremony at Dunard Centre on Monday
The ground breaking ceremony was held at the new Dunard Centre – the first concert hall to be built in Edinburgh for a century – on Monday.
Hannah, Marlow and Francesca P6 pupils from Broughton Primary School join Musician Dougie MacLean.PHOTO Ian Georgeson
