Top20 This week’s unmissable shows

Eva Hesse: Studiowork This retrospective of work by the prolific German artist conjures up a delectable feast for contemporary eyes. See Visual Art, page 72. Orphans Dennis Kelly’s gritty, compelling new play, in which a violent incident exposes the simmering tensions within a family. See Theatre, page 58.

Phil Nichol Depraved character comedy with the odd side-step into beat poetry from this Fringe favourite. See Comedy, page 22.

Zeitgeist Brilliant, bite-sized pieces of Butoh-inspired dance to make you think, by Aussie company Zen Zen Zo. See Dance, page 42. Wind in the Willows Adorable, well- characterised version of Kenneth Graham’s classic story, with some lovely touches. See Kids, page 44.

A Betrayal of Penguins Razor-sharp Irish comedy duo that manages to transcend their extremely silly name. See Comedy, page 26. The Last Witch Rona Munro’s play imagines the events leading up to the last ever execution for witchcraft in Scotland. See Theatre, page 56.

Il Ritorno d’Ulisse Homeric opera from South Africa, sung by gigantic wooden puppets. Exactly why we love the Festival. See Music, page 52.

The Trial Belt Up theatre company delivers an amazing adaptation of Kafka’s novel, turning the audience into a bewildered, helpless Joseph K. See Theatre, page 66. Cesc Gelabert The outstanding Catalan choreographer brings an utterly stunning dance double bill to the International Festival. See Dance, page 41.

2 THE LIST FESTIVAL GUIDE 20–27 Aug 2009