In its latest initiative in Scotland’s capital city, Black & Lizars, the country’s largest independently-owned optometrist, is acquiring the well-known city centre ophthalmic opticians business John Trotter & Co.
The deal, in which the current owner will remain in post and all current staff will be retained, is the latest stage in Black & Lizars’ long-term growth strategy. The Trotter name will also be retained.
The acquisition follows the creation of a new flagship practice in an upscale property in Frederick Street, just off of Princes Street in Edinburgh, where a £650,000 investment will provide the most technically advanced equipment and will offer hearing care as well as optical services. This new practice opens this Friday 12 December 2014.
The Trotter acquisition brings into the Black & Lizars portfolio a prominently situated high-end outlet in George Street, near the Assembly Rooms. The practice has a classic design which contrasts with the hi-tech equipment in the consulting areas.
The partnership has been agreed between Mark Ross, chief executive of Black & Lizars, and Eleanor Leech, principal optometrist and managing partner at John Trotter & Co. Ms Leech has been in the practice since 1998.
She said: “Trotters is a long-established business, founded in 1867. It shares the same values as Black & Lizars, focused on delivering the best possible level of visual health care. Black & Lizars is very highly regarded and has taken eye care in Scotland to new level.
“The team at Trotters is delighted that this alliance with Black & Lizars will allow us to provide an even better service to our clients.”
Mark Ross said: “Eleanor has built a terrific team of top-level professional staff in the George Street outlet and we are very pleased to be able to invite them to join the Black & Lizars family.
“They are all specialists in their field, be that refraction, contact lens fitting or spectacle dispensing. In short, they are ideal professionals. Teamed with Black & Lizars, they will continue to provide an extraordinary service for the people of Edinburgh.”
The prestigious new acquisition will be the latest in the Glasgow-based Black & Lizars’ 25-strong branch network in Scotland, ranging from Aberdeen to Ayr. It also has a practice in Northern Ireland.
Black & Lizars has opened a dramatic gap between its practices and normal retail optometrist chains by providing technology such the optomap retinal exam created by Optos, the Scottish-invented and world-leading ultra-wide field retinal imaging system.
MP’s Christmas card designed by local children
This weekend Ian Murray, MP for Edinburgh South, celebrated the success of his annual Primary School Christmas card design competition at an awards ceremony in Sainsbury’s Cameron Toll.
More than 2,000 children entered from fourteen primary schools across South Edinburgh and it remains the most popular Christmas card competition in the country.
Ian enlisted the help of Forth Radio and Aladdin pantomime star Grant Stott to choose the winning entry which was designed by James Gillespie’s Primary School’s Primary 4 pupil Camille Dykstra. Her card depicts a wintry Bruntsfield Links in the snow.
At the awards ceremony, Ian presented prizes generously provided for the fourth year in a row by Sainsbury’s Cameron Toll to Camille and the winners from each of the primary schools who entered.
Ian Murray MP said:
“This year’s designs were better than ever, and choosing between more than 2,000 entries was a very difficult task.
“Camille’s enchanting painting is a well-deserving winner.
“My huge thanks and appreciation go out to all of the teachers, parents and children, without whom this competition could not happen.
“A special mention should also be made for Sainsbury’s Cameron Toll, whose generous sponsorship has ensured that every child who entered will receive a prize and to Grant Stott for having the unenviable task of choosing the winner.
“A very Merry Christmas to all of my constituents, thank you for your help and support this year and all the best for 2015”
Stronger North Christmas Market
Stronger North is a new campaign in the north of the city set up to tackle crime and it is spearheaded by Fraser Sinclair who is based in the North Neighbourhood office.
On Friday they held a Christmas market at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre which is where these photos were taken.
left to right Emily Sutton Sophie Graham Aaron Hutton and Casey Hutton.
Edinburgh woman’s online Christmas Carol to raise funds for RNIB
A 24 year-old Edinburgh woman who is blind has recorded a beautifully poignant Christmas carol to raise money for the sight loss charity that has helped her to lead an independent life.
Amy Gilbert, originally from Kent but now resident in the capital, has put her version of the hymn ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ online and invited those who listen to make a donation to the Royal National Institute of Blind People Scotland.
Amy, herself, has been blind since birth due to the eye condition retinopathy of prematurity.
“I’ve loved singing since I was two or three,” she said. “I’ve sung in school and church choirs since I was ten. Music is such a wonderful thing, it was my way of escaping when I was a child. Whenever I felt alone, music was always my comfort. I know there will be people who are alone this Christmas and I want to reach out to them with this song. Plus it’s a very traditional song and most people will know it.
“Christmas has always meant so much to me. I had quite a turbulent childhood, but no matter what was going on my mum always made Christmas special for us.
“I’ve been in a recording studio a few times in the last 11 years, and made my first CD of covers when I was 13. It was awful – but my nan still insists it’s brilliant! I record my own covers now on my computer and put them on Soundcloud. They’re not professionally mixed but I enjoy doing it and people seem to like them.”
Whatever people donate to RNIB Scotland after hearing her song, they will be helping people who have been born with sight problems or who are losing their sight now, emphasises Amy.
“RNIB has helped me by providing the Talking Books service and lots of products for independent living over the years. I’d like to give back a bit. To everyone, with music you are never alone!”
The 51st Sainsbury’s in Scotland has just opened its doors this morning in Princes Mall. There are 25 new employees working there, some of whom were previously unemployed.
The 4000 sq ft shop is one of two new leases which the owners have signed with new tenants. The Post Office has relocated from The St James Centre but is one of many new tenants along with New Look, Superdry and Starbucks.
Some of the demand for retail space is being sparked by the St James Quarter development which will involve demolition of the shopping centre and replacing it completely, but it is clear that the owners of the mall, Catalyst Capital, have a new vision in mind.
Further to the opening, Andrew McPhail, Sainsbury’s Regional Acquisition Surveyor commented: “Sainsbury’s Locals are about great shops in great locations and we are excited to be opening at a time of the Princes Mall’s refurbishment and hope to play our part in the continuing success of the mall.”
The development will change the interior environment to a modern, bright new space and will include some new designs by Scottish architects Stallan Brand. The refurbishment is expected to be completed in spring 2015, with business continuing throughout.
Edinburgh recognised in global awards
Edinburgh has been ranked as the third small and mid-sized city globally in fDi Magazines GlobalCities of the Future awards 2014/15.
The capital was also a top city for Business Friendliness and Human Capital and Lifestyle. The city was recognised in the top ten for numerous other categories.
This achievement builds upon the success the city saw earlier this year when it ranked the top mid-sized city in Europe overall in fDi Magazine’s European Cities and Regions of the Future 2014/15 awards.
Convenor of Economy Committee
Cllr Frank Ross, Convener of the Economy Committee, said: “This is a fantastic result for Edinburgh and demonstrates that businesses are attracted here by the high quality of life and support available to them. Scotland’s capital is a vibrant festival city which encourages new business and innovation through a tight knit business community and support from Business Gateway and creative incubators.
“We’ve also welcomed over 30 new foreign investors to the city, including German renewable company BayWa, American microchip designers and manufacturer indie semiconductor, Swiss financial services company SYZ Asset Management, Indian operator of menu-listings website Zomato and French based Accor, the market leading hotel operator in Europe, who announced ibis and Mercure-branded hotels.
“This award recognises that Edinburgh is regarded as a truly global player.”
The fDi ranking assesses a mixture of data and expert opinion to rank cities and regions which have the best prospects for inward investment, economic development and business expansion. The fDi ranking uses official statistics and expert opinions to rank the global cities and regions with the best prospects for inward investment, economic development and business expansion.
Full list of Edinburgh’s awards in the Global Cities of the Future awards
· Ranked third in the top ten small and mid-sized city globally
· Runner-up – small and mid-sized cities for Business Friendliness
· Runner-up – small and mid-sized cities for Human Capital and Lifestyle
· Top Ten – small and mid-sized cities for Connectivity
· Top Ten – small and mid-sized cities for Economic Potential
· Top Ten – small and mid-sized cities for Cost Effectiveness
Hibernian U-20s 3-1 Kilmarnock U-20s
Hibs under-20s secured beat Kilmarnock under-20s 3-1 at Easter Road yesterday to secure a place in the next round of the Scottish FA Youth Cup.
After a goalless first half Dean Hawkshaw gave the visitors the lead just after the break, before Taylor Hendry levelled on the hour mark.
In the 71st minute Aaron Dunsmore gave Hibs the lead from a tight angle before Neil Martyniuk made it 3-1 from the penalty spot in injury time to secure the victory.
After the game Joe McBride, Hibernian under-20s Development Coach told Hibernian TV: “It’s always disappointing to go a goal down, but again we showed good character and great mental strength to comeback and we should’ve scored a few more. I think Kleton was very limited to the number of saves he had to make.
“We got into some decent areas in the first half and we were a little bit tentative and there was no real conviction.
“I was pleased in the second half with how we went about our business, especially when we went a goal down. Overall I think we deserved to win because of the number of chances we created and the good opportunities we created.
“With today being a cup tie it (the unbeaten run) obviously does matter a great deal, but with regards to development it was great to see a couple of the squad (Lewis Allan and Scott Martin) being involved at Falkirk.
“I mentioned that to them, that the manager is here today and that it could be you in the next couple of weeks.”
Hibernian under-20s: Kleton Perntreou, Aaron Dunsmore, Callum Crane, Tom Gardiner, Jordan McGregor, Neil Martyniuk, Jordan Sinclair, Scott Martin, Cody Mulhall, Taylor Hendry (Gareth McCaffrey, 76), Conner Duthie (Max Todd, 61). Unused substitutes: Sean Brennan, Ben Stirling.
Family Pay Tribute to Thomas Milligan
The family of Thomas Milligan, who died following an altercation in Lauder Road, Dalkeith in the early hours of Sunday morning have today paid tribute to him.
In a statement issued via Police Scotland, they said:
“Tam was a very much loved partner, father, grandfather and brother who will be sadly missed.
“He devoted his time to his work being a driving instructor and taxi driver. He loved socialising with his friends on a Sunday afternoon at the local pub and enjoyed listening to music.
“The family request to be left alone at this difficult time to come to terms with their loss”.
A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with this incident and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Monday).
Monday in Edinburgh – What’s On Today
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).
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.
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.
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.
Five things you need to know today Edinburgh!
Today at Edinburgh’s Christmas
Happy Birthday to The Haven!
Adventure talk – tonight
Rail Fares stand still
Roadworks at Forth Replacement Crossing
Today at Edinburgh’s Christmas you could use your 20% discount if you have an EH postcode and book yourself a skating session. There are actually two ice rinks. One is in East Princes Street Gardens which you can book here and the other is in St Andrew Square which you can book here. Prices start from £5.00.
***
The little cafe down at Newhaven is three years old today!
An event being held at The Hub later today features four of the UK’s leading adventurers : Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Ben Fogle, Olly Hicks and Kenton Cool.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Deemed the world’s greatest living explorer. Sir Ranulph’s expeditions include the first to visit both the North and South Poles by surface and the first to cross Antarctica on foot.
Ben Fogle: A popular TV personality, Ben’s many adventures have included rowing tandem across the Atlantic Ocean, cycling across the Rocky Mountains and travelling through the empty quarter of Oman.
Olly Hicks: The youngest person to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean and Tasmania Sea, Olly also attempted an around the world solo row but was thwarted by a boat failure. Olly will attempt to row around the world solo again in 2016.
Kenton Cool: A well as reaching the summit of Everest 11 times (a British record), Kenton was the first to complete the triple crown of the summits of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse in a single trip. Kenton has also led many of Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ expeditions, including their tackling of the North Face of the Eiger.
The Forth Replacement Crossing continues towards completion, but of course it means new roads and disruption on roads in the area.
Here is the weekly update on the arrangements which will affect you if you drive in the area:
Monday 08 December 2014 – A904 East controlled by stop/go boards for short duration tie-in works at Echline Corner.
Tuesday 09 December 2014, off-peak – temporary traffic lights on A904 near Echline Corner for surfacing works, white lining and other works.
Overnight Tuesday 09 / Wednesday 10 December 2104 – new access to B924 from A904 at Echline Corner open (temporary access west of U221 closed). All access from west at this stage, westbound traffic will require to use gyratory to access new link from west. Traffic on will still be controlled by temporary traffic lights on B924 to facilitate completion of tie-in works
Friday 19 December 2014 – B924 fully open to two-way traffic. Westbound traffic on A904 will continue to use gyratory to access new link from west side.
If you are reading this on paper but would like to access our website then using the scan app on your smartphone or tablet you can go straight there by using this QR code
Environment Minister off to Lima with Scotland’s climate change message
Scotland’s Environment and Climate Change Minister Aileen McLeod has said that the international community must match Scotland’s world-leading climate change ambitions to tackle global warming.
Dr McLeod will travel today to Lima in Peru to take part in UN climate talks which are aimed at paving the way for a new global climate treaty next year. Stop Climate Chaos Scotland are also attending.
It comes just days after official estimates that 2014 will be the warmest year on record with manmade greenhouse gases causing the rise in temperatures.
Dr McLeod said:
“The scientific evidence could not be clearer. The world is getting warmer and greenhouse gas emissions from mankind are extremely likely to be the dominant cause of climate change.
“That is why I am taking a very strong message to the UN meeting in Lima that the international community must match Scotland’s world-leading climate change ambitions.
“The Scottish Government takes climate change extremely seriously. Our solid progress towards achieving a 42 per cent reduction in emissions by 2020 from a 1990 baseline has been praised by our independent assessors the Committee on Climate Change, and we have committed almost £1 billion of Scottish Government funding over the next two years for climate change action.
“We know our targets are not easy but they are at the level the international community needs to match if the new climate treaty in Paris next year is to stand a good chance of limiting global temperature rise to no more than 2 degrees Celsius.
“By sharing Scotland’s high ambition on climate change with the international delegates attending this crucial summit in Peru, we will show that substantial progress on cutting emissions is do-able as well as desirable.
“Climate change affects every single person on this planet and so it is time for the global community to step up and follow Scotland’s lead. However, these targets are not just for governments or politicians – everyone has a role to play in reducing emissions.”
Tom Ballantine, Stop Climate Chaos Scotland Chair, said:
“It is important that there is a Scottish presence at the Lima climate conference, as Scotland has a good story to tell of commitment on climate action. Attendance from the Scottish Climate Minister should send a positive signal to the international community about Scottish political commitment to taking action on climate change. We continue to share Scotland’s climate action story abroad and work to realise its full potential at home.”
Commenting on WWF’s wind power figures Dr McLeod added:
“Scotland’s renewable energy targets are amongst the most ambitious in the world and we are punching above our weight in the international effort to tackle climate change. For example, we generated 46.6 per cent equivalent of Scotland’s gross electricity production from renewables in 2013 and we are making excellent progress towards meeting our target of the equivalent of 100 per cent of gross annual electricity demand from renewables by 2020.
“This is just one of the ways in which Scotland is working to meet our world-leading climate change ambitions which I will be urging the international community to match when I am at the UN climate talks in Lima this week.”
Scottish economy still growing
Reports published today confirm that Scotland’s economy is continuing to grow. There are two studies, one from Bank of Scotland and the other from Ernst & Young.
The Bank of Scotland PMI figures show further expansion in the economy during November and robust employment growth across both the services and manufacturing sectors.
Meanwhile, the Ernst & Young Scottish ITEM club forecast for economic growth in 2014 was revised up. This reflects the strength of the performance in the Scottish economy.
Ernst & Young also sharply improved its forecasts for employment, with total employment in Scotland expected to grow by 82,000 and 38,000 in 2014 and 2015 respectively.
Commenting on these reports Deputy First Minister John Swinney said:
“Economic recovery in Scotland is now being sustained with the latest GDP figures showing Scotland’s economy growing continuously for two years. With the 26th month of expansion in the PMI, and the most recent forecasts for Scottish GDP growth having been revised up, the economic outlook remains positive.
“The latest figures on the job market from July to September 2014 also revealed that Scotland has the highest employment and economic activity rates and lowest unemployment rate of the four nations of the UK.
“Supporting economic growth, by effective work with business and by tackling inequalities, is integral to this Government’s approach to creating a more prosperous and fair society.
“The focus of our economic strategy on innovation and internationalisation is essential to address the headwinds to the recovery, particularly weaknesses in key export markets as well as political uncertainty at the UK level.
“We will continue to do all we can to ensure the positive trends continue, but with further job creating powers, we could do even more to help families throughout Scotland.”
Group to look at youth employment
Key figures in business and education including the Chief Executive of the City of Edinburgh Council will meet later today in Glasgow to outline how best employers can make long term commitments to developing and employing young people.
Rob Woodward, chief executive of STV, will today chair the first meeting of the National Invest in Young People Group.
The Group has been convened to oversee the establishment of industry led Regional Invest in Young People Groups across Scotland a key recommendation of the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce.
The Group also includes the following members:
Colin Borland – Head of External Affairs (Scotland), Federation of Small Businesses
Sue Bruce – Chief Executive of Edinburgh City Council
Liz Cameron – Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce
Heather Dunk – Principal of Ayrshire College
Sylvia Halkerston – Former HR Director, Macphie of Glenbervie
Grahame Smith – General Secretary of the STUC
John Stewart – HR Director Scottish & Southern Energy
Graeme Waddell – Chairman of Energen Biogas.
Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training Roseanna Cunningham welcomed the meeting and said:
“This is an important step in the delivery of a wide ranging radical programme to develop a world class vocational education system for Scotland. Our young people are well educated and keen to work and our employers are increasingly recognising that investing in young people will be crucial to growing their businesses.
“This group will draw on the knowledge and experience from different interests to put young people and employers at the centre of vocational education. Their input will be key to support the system that meets the needs of our employers and matches the ambition of our young people and I will be very interested to hear about what they have discussed.
“Recent employment statistics for Scotland have been very encouraging with record numbers of people in work. However, we want to go further and to tackle long term issues in the labour market and barriers to young women and men getting into jobs.
“I want to be very clear that we will not settle for a return to pre-recession levels of youth unemployment and the Scottish Government has shown real ambition with our initial response to the Commission’s work. We will outline how we will take forward the recommendations in the coming weeks.
Rob Woodward said:
“I have been impressed by the breadth of knowledge and enthusiasm shown by every member of this group. They are all passionate about delivering a vocational education system in Scotland that supports the needs of our employers, our young people and our economy.
“By drawing such committed people from industry, education and the trade union movement can contribute to delivering that shared vision.”
Off-peak rail fares stand still
Fares changes are now in effect for passengers making advance bookings for UK rail journeys in 2015. What do you think? Is rail travel your preferred option? It always seems to us that the rail fare to London is far in excess of the air fare (even when you take the cost of transfers at either end).
Transport Scotland explain that ScotRail’s off-peak tickets – used for 40% of journeys on its services – remain frozen at the 2013 level while peak fares increases are capped to increase in line with inflation.
Newly appointed Transport Minister Derek Mackay said:
“Scotland’s railways are offering an ever more attractive travel option and, alongside the Scottish Government’s £5billion package of investment over the next four years. This will help us see a continuation of the shift from road to rail which has resulted in 86 million passengers travelling on ScotRail services in the past year alone.
“The work being done between the Scottish Government and First ScotRail to bear down on fares will draw even more people out their cars and onto trains. We have already negotiated a cap on peak fares in 2014 and 2015 to ensure they do not rise beyond inflation levels; this is lower than fares increases across the border. In addition, off-peak fares are being frozen at 2013 levels for as long as inflation stays below 3.5%.
“The next ScotRail franchise will bear down even further on rail costs for passengers, ensuring fares remain below inflation. It will also see regulated off-peak fares restricted to 1% below inflation from 2016. This will offer real benefits to passengers across the Scottish rail network by spreading demand throughout the day which, in turn, will increase efficiency.”
The 2.5% inflationary rise will apply only to peak time fares.
For example:
• a Glasgow-Edinburgh anytime return ticket will rise by 60p, from £22.50 to £23.10
• a Glasgow-Stirling anytime return ticket will rise by 30p, from £12.60 to £12.90.
Details of the new franchise which begins on 1 April 2015.
What do you think? Are these fares just too high? Are you looking forward to the new franchisee taking over?
What’s On In Edinburgh this week
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.
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.
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’sDays 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.
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.
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 toentertain 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’sString 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.
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 Belzharby 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.
Image by Ham
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.
Hayao Miyazaki: The Master of Animation
There are very few directors who have a firm grasp on both reality and fantasy quite like Hayao Miyazaki does. Creating kinetic castles, bear like spirits or interpreting war time airplane marvels; he tells sentimental stories in a distinct fashion. He’s a marvelous animator, with his influence being seen and appreciated by many filmmakers worldwide, regardless of their work being animated or live action. His art lies in his storytelling. Whilst films like Spirited Away are beautiful due to their ambiguous complexity, he can convey equal amounts beauty through child friendly work such as My Neighbour Totoro, and still remain deftly symbolic. Whilst a select few directors have a definitive masterpiece to be proud of, Miyazaki has many.
The director announced his retirement in autumn last year to a cinematic crowd full of sadness and disappointment. After his swan song, the emphatic and moving ‘The Wind Rises’, Miyazaki was left with a collection of films that stand stead in the world of cinema. Eleven films later, Studio Canal have compiled a box set of his work whilst at Studio Ghibli; a collection of films that have both defined and influenced a cinematic generation.
Miyazaki’s body of work at Ghibli has a history of over 30 years. From his first feature, 1979’s The Castle of Cagliostro to 2013’s The Wind Rises, his work has had a bold influence on the work of his peers. Pixar’s John Lasseter considers him a friend and a role model, previously stating that the Miyazaki influence can be seen in all of their work, notably their classic, Toy Story. When watching this awe inspiring collection of films, you notice minute details that have translated into Western cinema from Ghibli’s comparably unknown collection.
Even his weaker works surpass his peers in terms of quality. Truth be told there is no weak Ghibli film when Miyazaki is at the helm. His early works are adventure films set against the backdrops of mystical cities, all exemplary in their field. Around the early nineties, his work became a lot more magical. Arguably the studio’s most memorable film, My Neighbour Totoro deals with two young girls, their unwell mother and their escape into the woods, discovering mythical sprites and monsters. The star, the Totoro itself, remains Ghibli’s logo and the Japanese equivalent to Mickey Mouse. It’s a masterful piece of work; both exploratory and sensitive, laden with a gorgeous metaphorical undertone. This film started the studio’s affinity with enchantment through character and storytelling.
In Kiki’s Delivery Service, a young witch sets off from her mother and town to discover the wide world. Her flying skills earn her a job in Koriko, a seaside town reminiscent of Europe’s port villages. It’s perhaps one of his most nostalgic works; a tale of flying the nest and discovering the importance of independence. Still close to the stunningly illustrated Miyazaki waters, Porco Rosso is one of his most obscure works. A man cursed to become an anthropomorphic pig acts as a bounty hunter to the air and sea pirates surrounding his town. It’s a return to the riotous affairs Miyazaki is often fond of, but has a love story at its heart.
Princess Mononoke was a defining moment for the studio and, in turn, for animation as a genre. It was a striking turning of the tables in cinema, where animation had the ability to match and exceed the emotional gravitas and topical relevance that live action cinema did. A battle between forest gods and human beings for the rights to their land echoes the modern day fight between nature and the humans that take advantage of it. It’s a film that, to this day, remains a blatant influence in ecological film making (watch this, and then Avatar). In terms of critical acclaim, this is widely described as Studio Ghibli’s greatest work.
Two years later, and Japanese animation is brought to the attention of the world once again thanks to Spirited Away, Ghibli’s most recognizable film. The story of Chihiro, a young girl lost in a spirit world seperated from her parent’s, was Miyazaki’s interpretation of Carroll’s fairytale Alice in Wonderland. It’s obscure, charming and endlessly creative. The famed trio is rounded out by Howl’s Moving Castle. An adaptation of a children’s novel by Diana Wynne Jones, it is a broad, sumptuous story with a spectacular amount of character.
Things took a much more childlike turn once again with Ponyo, Miyazaki’s interpretation of the classic ‘The Little Mermaid’ fairytale. Whilst being admittedly a loose adaptation, it’s his most colourful, innocent and playful work yet. The kind of film so sweet it should be obligatory viewing for everyone, regardless of whether you’re a five year old child or their seventy-something grandparent.
After years of claiming that ‘the next one is the last’, Miyazaki finally let the curtain fall after the tender biopic, The Wind Rises. Earning him an Oscar nomination, the film was internationally praised and rightly so. It’s a film about a man in love with his craft; so much so he does everything to make his work perfect – a perfect reflection of Miyazaki himself.
Film Ratings:
The Castle of Cagliostro – | Nausicaa: The Valley of the Wind – Laputa: Castle in the Sky – | My Neighbour Totoro – Kiki’s Delivery Service – | Porco Rosso – Princess Mononoke – | Spirited Away – Howl’s Moving Castle – | Ponyo – The Wind Rises –
For fans of Miyazaki who are yet to dive into the world of high definition, this set is an ideal gift or gift to yourself. It should be noted that the individual releases have special features whereas the discs in this set are solely the films. There is one features disc that includes a 45 minute press conference to announce Miyazaki’s departure, but that’s it. We’re all eagerly awaiting the entire Ghibli collection but not with such bated breath. These collections seem to mark the end of an era, and for Studio Ghibli as a whole, there is little sign of stopping.
The Hayao Miyazaki Collection is released on Blu-Ray, Monday December 8th
Wake Me Up When It’s January…
There is a rumour that The Edinburgh Reporter’s very own Victor Meldrew – aka Mike Smith – isn’t keen on this time of the year and is something of a bah humbug. We can’t think how this rumour started….
The Croatian government has banned Christmas and New Year parties in the public sector because of the global financial crisis. State-run firms and organisations have also been told that they won’t be allowed to dip into their funds to buy Christmas presents.
The ban follows a proposal to freeze public-sector salaries next year. Prime MinisterIvo Sanadersaid there was no need for panic, but the country had to be serious.“For that goal we forbid buying of Christmas and New Year’s gifts as well as organising of Christmas and New Year’s receptions,” said Mr Sanader.
This story in the news caught my eye. I can’t say I’ve ever entertained any thoughts about visiting Croatia. Until now. Cancelling Christmas parties is an excellent idea in my bah-humbug book.
I have opted out of my office Christmas Party this year as have some of my colleagues. Like most other organisations ours is a corporate bash where all the different departments attend. I simply no longer have the urge to sit in a room full of people who either give you grief or simply choose to ignore you if you pass them in the corridor the rest of the year. Trying to make small talk to someone who you don’t really give a toss about whilst wearing a stupid paper hat, eating barely edible turkey and having bloody Shakin’ Stevens singing Merry Christmas in the background isn’t my idea of fun. And paying way over the odds for the privilege merely adds insult to considerable mental injury.
‘So what are you doing for Christmas? Are you having the family? ‘Sorry, I’m not going to answer your ridiculous questions because then I would feel obliged to ask you the same and I really couldn’t give a Jonathan Ross about you or your family. No offence…
Enduring the meal and the small talk is bad enough; there’s the ‘disco’ afterwards. Middle aged women who in normal circumstances barely give you the time of day are suddenly transformed by a couple of glasses of cheap red wine and drag you on to the dance floor ‘because it’s Christmas’. Strangely enough, come Monday morning they’re back to their non-communicative ways and looking quite sheepish as they try to remember what they were up to on Friday night.
So (paper) hats off to the Croatians. Christmas becomes more and more of a commercial festival with each passing year. And for this grumpy old Edinburgh Reporter, more and more tedious.
Wake me up when it’s January…
Witness appeal following Tranent collision
Police in East Lothian are appealing for witnesses following a road collision near Tranent this afternoon.
The collision occurred on the A199 at Old Post Road around 4.30pm today when a white Vauxhall Astra collided with a man described as white, early 20s, clean shaven, 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in, possibly Eastern European, with short dark hair, wearing a dark hooded top and blue jeans.
Inspector Robert Rodriguez said: “This man has sustained a head injury and left the scene before we had a chance to trace him.
“There are obvious concerns in relation to this male and any one who witnessed the accident or saw a man matching this description is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.”
Assault and Robbery York Place
Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following an assault and robbery on York Place in the early hours of this morning.
The incident happened around 3.10am this morning when a 22 year old man and a 21 year old man were walking on York Place, continuing 20 metres west of the Conan Doyle pub.
Five men on the other side of the road began shouting remarks at them, and then proceeded to cross the road and approached the victims from behind.
The victims were both punched to the ground and the 23 year old victim’s jacket was taken by the suspects, who made off on foot heading east along York Place.
The suspects are described as white, mid twenties, 5ft 11in tall, medium build, short dark hair and medium build. One of the suspects was wearing a pink shirt or pink v-neck jumper, one was wearing a white polo shirt and the other three were wearing dark jackets.
DC Stevie Herd said: “This was an unprovoked assault and robbery and we are appealing for anyone who was in the area of York Place around 3am and who may have seen the group of five men walking in the area.
Anyone who has information should contact Police on 101.
Witness appeal after serious assault in Grassmarket
Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in the Black Bull pub in The Grassmarket yesterday evening.
The incident happened around 11.30pm inside the pub when a steward observed an altercation between two men. When the steward intervened, another man hit the steward over the head with a glass. He received a cut to his forehead which required hospital treatment.
The suspect for this serious assault is described as Male, white, mid 20s, heavy build, 5ft 10in tall, short dark hair and wearing dark shirt. He was last seen heading in the direction of Victoria Street with one of the men from the original disturbance.
PC Chris Harding said: “We are appealing for anyone who was in the Black Bull pub on Saturday night and who recalls witnessing this assault to come forward. We are also keen to hear from the man who was involved in the altercation with the first suspect.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Stubbs reaction to Falkirk defeat
Hibs’ Head Coach Alan Stubbs insists that his players will have to get over their disappointment following yesterday’s last minute defeat to Falkirk by taking three points from next week’s game against Alloa Athletic at Easter Road.
Yesterday’s game could have gone either way with Hibs being denied a penalty and Paul Heffernan having a shot cleared off the line before David McCracken’s last gasp winner, but Hibs remain in play-off contention, two points above the ‘Bairns’ and three behind Queen of the South.
Speaking to Hibs TV, Stubbs said: “Overall, I’m disappointed, but we need to remember we have been on a decent run and the most important thing now is that the team react in the right way and take it out on Alloa next week at home.
“The lads have been great and have done really well, but if they ever needed to be reminded that if they dip below the necessary standards we set then we run the risk of results of like that.
“So they have to learn and learn quickly – if they don’t then they know what will happen.
“I think to really hit them hard after what they’ve done recently would be harsh. They’ve been told it wasn’t acceptable, but we put it to bed and move on to next week against Alloa.”
Taxi driver death being treated as suspicious
Police are appealing for witnesses following the death of a taxi driver in Dalkeith in the early hours of this morning.
The incident happened at around 1.20am this morning, on Lauder Road, Dalkeith following an altercation that took place in a taxi.
The taxi driver was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where he was pronounced dead.
DI Mark Henderson said: “We are currently treating this death as suspicious and we are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Lauder Road and East House Road in Dalkeith around 1.20am this morning to contact police on 101.”
Serious assault outside Easthouses Miners Club
Police are appealing for witnesses following the serious assault of a 34 year old woman in Dalkeith in the early hours of Saturday 6th December 2014.
The incident happened around 1230am outside Easthouses Miners Club.
The first suspect is described as male, white, aged early 20’s, slim build, and wearing a white top and jeans.
The second suspect is described as female, white, aged mid 20’s, slim build, auburn shoulder length hair, and wearing a crop top and jeans.
Detective Constable John Fortune said: “This has been a vicious assault leaving the victim with significant injuries. Anyone with information should contact police on 101.”
Scottish Labour Leadership contest in its final days
The contest for the position of Scottish Labour Leader is drawing to a close with the result to be announced on 13 December 2014.
There have been no televised debates among the three of them, but all candidates have been keeping media informed as to their ideas and plans.
They have campaign websites and Twitter accounts. Unless you have a vote in the election of the new leader it is perhaps academic as to what the differences between them actually are, but they have various stances and attributes for the job.
If Jim Murphy gets elected then he will have to find himself a seat at Holyrood as he has promised to do, and he says he will then deliver the change that the people of Scotland are ‘crying out for’. This is his latest tweet:
Stuck in traffic in Glasgow city centre now but reason for this ‘road closed’ sign made me smile. pic.twitter.com/6O7moqWSuq
If Sarah Boyack wins then the status quo of all female leaders of all parties in The Scottish Parliament would remain, and Labour would be led by one of the original members of the parliament. This is one of her latest tweets:
If Neil Findlay wins then the party would be led by a man who rails against career politicians, and who wants to end poverty, partly by changing the minimum wage to a living wage. This is one of his latest tweets:
Fairy Tale Exhibition at The Scottish Storytelling Centre
Floris Books launches exhibition of artwork from its Traditional Scottish Tales series
Scottish folk and fairy tales provide the focus for a new exhibition opening this Thursday at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh.
The exhibition is made up of illustrations from three new picture books which aim to bring old Scottish stories to life for young children.
It features artwork from three talented young illustrators, Matthew Land (The Dragon Stoorworm), Philip Longson (The Tale of Tam Linn) and Ruchi Mhasane (The Selkie Girl). All three illustrators have graduated from art school within the last two years, and for Matthew and Philip, these are their first picture books.
From the Dragon Stoorworm – who is said to have formed Scotland’s many islands – to the Selkie – a girl who turns into a seal – and the tale of Tam Linn – a legend originating in the Scottish Borders – these traditional myths and legends have been passed down through years of oral tradition, and are now brought to life with stunning new illustrations.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 11th December 2014 to 24th January 2015, with original artwork and limited edition prints for sale.
Filmhouse Junior: Young Voices (PG). A selection of films made by young people who participated in the Filmhouse’s Understanding Cinema project at schools and cinemas across Scotland in 2013/14. Most of the films were made by primary school children, and demonstrate ‘wonderful imagination, skill and creativity’. 11am, Filmhouse, Lothian Road. £3.50 (all ages): book online or call the box office on 0131 228 2688.
A Very Merry Swapshop: celebrate the festive season with a Lego Swapshop to close off the year! If you collect Lego minifigures of any kind, come along to the shop and trade out your doubles/extras and unwanted figures with other collectors for the ones you want. Prizes and games too! 3pm, Waterstones Cameron Toll, 6 Lady Road. Call 0131 666 1866 for more information.
Gorgie City Farm Christmas Craft Fair: festive fun and crafts. 11am-4pm, Gorgie City Farm, 51 Gorgie Road.
Christmas at Lauriston: Edinburgh Living History 1910. Be transported back to the Edwardian era and celebrate Christmas with Mr and Mrs Reid, their staff, family and friends on these special costumed interpretation tours. 1pm or 3pm, Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road. £5 per adult, £3 per child, £12.50 per family – or with refreshments £6.50/£4.50/£17. Bookings must be made via the Usher Hall Box Office, in person, by phone (0131 228 1155, Monday-Saturday) or online.
Art Maker – December: join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. For ages 4-12. 2-4pm (drop-in), Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.
LGBT: Families Love? A workshop designed to give you a safe place to explore what ‘family’ means to you. How many of our beliefs, expectations, disappointments, happinesses and hurts are caused by a culture that was force-fed to us from childhood? By using creative methods, the facilitator will encourage you to work towards challenging what is positive and negative about how you relate to this word, possibly redefining what your idea of ‘family’ is. Through sharing with other members of the group, find ways to live at peace with your unique experience. Facilitators arre fully trained and experienced psychotherapists/counsellors. 10am-4pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing, 9 Howe Street. Booking essential: for more information and to book, email Alison at alison@lgbthealth.org or call 0131 652 3283. Free.
Christmas Crafternoon: a festive afternoon drop-in session at which you can make a Christmas decoration inspired by the Museum’s collections. 12 noon-4pm, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free. Also available at same times on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December 2014.
Natural Partners: Forests and Education. Forests, trees and woodlands, and all aspects of wood as a material, offer fantastic opportunities for learning. Explore a number of hands-on activities, suitable for all ages. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free: no booking required. Facilitated by students from Moray House School of Education and staff from Forest Research and Forestry Commission Scotland.
Advent Music and Reflection: Angels From Heaven. Music by David Willcocks, Max Reger and Will Todd, performed by the sopranos and altos of the church choir with Laura Cioffi (flute), directed by Brigitte Harris. There will also be a reflection for the season of Advent. 1.30-2pm, St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. All welcome.
Mortonhall Crematorium Christmas Memorial Service: led by John E Jones, Civil Celebrant, with a performance by The Edinburgh Telephone Choir. All Books of Remembrance will be on display in the Pentland Chapel. Light refreshments will be provided. 3pm, Mortonhall Crematorium, Howdenhall Road.
Winter Guided Walk: join a garden guide for a leisurely afternoon walk around the 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 reception, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. £5 per person, no advance booking required.
Christmas Crib Exhibition and Afternoon Tea: come and see a variety of cribs and enjoy afternoon tea and a chat, with a short blessing service at 4.30pm. If you have any exhibits of your own cribs, whether homemade, bought, treasured over the years, strange or wonderful, please contact Rev Sophia Marriage on 0131 629 1219 or sophia.marriage@stmarksportobello.org. Cribs may be brought to the church during the week beginning 1st December. 2-4.30pm, St Mark’s Episcopal Church, Portobello High Street.
Open Mic with Matt Norris: a night of acoustic/unplugged open mic for songwriters, cover artists, poetry/spoken word and anything else you’d like to perform for an audience. From 8pm, Sofi’s Bar, 65 Henderson Street.
Christian Aid Service of Thanksgiving: a chance to celebrate the work of Christian Aid partners around the world and to thank the supporters who make this possible. The service will be led by the head of Christian Aid Scotland, Kathy Galloway. All welcome: tea and coffee will be served after the service. If you are planning to attend, please email edinburgh@christian-aid.org or call 0131 220 1254 to enable the organisers to plan refreshments. 6.30-7.30pm, St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, 13 George Street. All welcome.
Five things you need to know today Edinburgh!
Alex Salmond to run for Westminster
Usher Hall award
M8 victim named
Hearts trounce Queen of the South
Mercy Corps appeal
Former First Minister Alex Salmond is expected to announce that he will contest the Westminster seat of Gordon in 2015, continuing his lifelong campaign for independence for Scotland in the heart of the UK Government.
The constituency is being vacated by LibDem Sir Malcolm Bruce who is one of many politicians who have decided to stand down next year. Gordon lies near his Scottish constituency of Aberdeenshire East which if he is elected to Westminster he would presumably continue to represent for a year till the next Scottish election. He has previously served as an MP at Westminster from 1987 till 2010.
Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling have both announced their retirement from politics since the Referendum.
Mr Salmond’s alter ego @Angry Salmond appears to have pushed him into it:
The Usher Hall has been recognised for services to deaf and hard of hearing customers with an award for best practice.
Attitude is Everything has awarded Edinburgh’s Usher Hall the Bronze Standard Charter of Best Practice for showing continuing commitment to venue access to their customers and performers.
Attitude is Everything assists the music industry to understand the requirements of Deaf and disabled people at music venues and festivals. The ethos of the Charter is that Deaf and disabled people should be as independent as they want to be at live music events.
Hearts had a glorious afternoon at Tynecastle yesterday winning 4-1 against Queen of the South who, according to The Edinburgh Reporter’s Mike Smith were ‘he best visiting team I have seen at Tynecastle this season’.
The Edinburgh Disaster Response Committee and Edinburgh’s International Charity, Mercy Corps have joined forces to provide shelter and lifesaving supplies to families who are on the run from violent conflict or war. Women, men and children from countries like Syria, South Sudan and Iraq who have been forced to leave their homes and leave everything they have behind.
You are invited to donate to the appeal on the EVOC website here.
If you are reading this on paper and would like to read the online version instead then using the Scan app on your smartphone you can scan the QR code below and be directed to the website.
Usher Hall gets award
The only five star concert hall in Scotland has been given an award for the way it deals with its deaf and hard of hearing customers as well as those with disabilities.
Management and staff at the Usher Hall are pleased to find that their efforts have been recognised in this way.
Convener of Culture and Sport Richard Lewis
Councillor Richard Lewis, Convener for Culture and Sport said: “Nobody should feel excluded from the arts. In a city like Edinburgh, which has such a rich cultural heritage, it is a real priority to strive towards offering an equal experience for all.
“To better understand how deaf people and those who are hard of hearing can get the most of Scotland’s five star music venue, staff have been taking part in training sessions and helping to enhance the Council’s cultural outreach programme.
“The Usher Hall has had a record year, with ticket sales and audience numbers rising, and this recognition from Attitude Is Everything is yet another reason to celebrate.”
The desire to give all customers equal access to the flagship concert hall was an important item on the agenda right back at the planning stages of the refurbishment. However, as Karl Chapman, General Manager of the Usher Hall, stated on hearing from Attitude is Everything,
“We are delighted with this award and the recognition of the efforts we have made towards making music more accessible for everyone. Being part of a UK wide scheme is important as we make collective efforts to ensure that everyone can enjoy what live music has to offer.
We have made a number of investments in making our venue accessible but we also recognise that this is a continuous journey of improvement and we are committed to achieving a gold standard by 2017 and ensuring that access issues are part of our mainstream culture.”
The concert hall, which sells around 220,000 tickets each year was given the award following several visits by the organisation.
Gideon Feldman, Attitude is Everything’s Senior Project Manager who worked with the Usher Hall to implement the award said: “Usher Hall is a fantastic venue which ensures everyone is welcome following a beautiful refurb. by looking at the service they provide to their Deaf and disabled customers. The Charter of Best Practice is designed to work in partnership with venues and we were pleased to see Usher Hall review where to find their access provision and how to use it, as well as their policies to ensure an equal experience. Usher Hall are also running a series of Disability Equality Training Sessions to help make sure access is understood across the venue.”
Edinburgh activists want pledge over climate change
Climate activists in Edinburgh sent a message to world politicians who are meeting now in Lima, asking them to agree a deal to prevent catastrophic climate change.
They took to the streets on Saturday to collect signatures supporting the Edinburgh Climate Action Pledge which also calls on the City of Edinburgh Council to take urgent steps to cut the city’s greenhouse gas emissions.
They had a photo stunt with person in a polar bear suit dressed as Paddington Bear to link the threat of climate change to current United Nations talks in Peru.
Matthew Crighton of Friends of the Earth Edinburgh commented
“To look after our planet and ourselves we have to stop burning fossil fuels – coal, natural gas and oil – and switch to renewables. It’s practical and can improve people’s lives at the same time. Transforming our energy system will create jobs, cut pollution and tackle dangerous climate change.
“Let’s take vigorous action now, rather than face the consequences of climate change- devastation to farming around the world, rising food prices and rising hunger, mass migrations and unrest, flooding of coastal areas; and disaster for the natural world.
“So we want a global agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions; and we also want action in Scotland to meet our emissions targets. We support Edinburgh Council’s target to reduce the city’s carbon emissions by 42% by 2020. We want to see action taken now to achieve and then exceed that target”.
Man who died on M8 named
Police have confirmed the name of the man who died in a collision on the M8 this morning as Murray D’Angelo (28).
The family have issued a photo of Murray through Police Scotland, but ask that they are left to grieve in private.
Officers are continuing their investigation to establish the full circumstances and are asking any witnesses who were on the M8 near to Hermiston Gait around 6.15am this morning to contact police on 101 immediately.
The partnership has been agreed between Mark Ross, chief executive of Black & Lizars, and Eleanor Leech, principal optometrist and managing partner at John Trotter & Co. Ms Leech has been in the practice since 1998.
Amy, herself, has been blind since birth due to the eye condition retinopathy of prematurity.
Edinburgh has been ranked as the third small and mid-sized city globally in fDi Magazines GlobalCities of the Future awards 2014/15.
An event being held at The Hub later today features four of the UK’s leading adventurers : Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Ben Fogle, Olly Hicks and Kenton Cool.
Police confirmed the name of the man who died in a collision on the M8 yesterday morning as Murray D’Angelo (28).
