list.co.uk/festival Previews | FESTIVAL AROUND TOWN
EIF: CULTURE & CONFLICT International commentators and academics explore the impact of war
The Edinburgh International Festival may have come in for some knocks last year when it was announced that it wouldn’t be touching upon certain timely political subjects in 2014. But in the ancillary programme which accompanies its high-end performance works, reflection upon the impact of World War I – an overriding theme of many of this year’s shows given the centenary of its outbreak – hasn’t shied away from the contemporary. With The War That Ended Peace (9 Aug), Professor Margaret McMillan reflects upon the beginning of the war and of its impact upon Europe, while in First World War: Re-thinking the Centenary (9 Aug) Professor John Horne asks how our continued commemoration might be carried out. In The Peace to End Peace (27 Aug), the geopolitical fallout of 1914–18 is also explored.
Broader topics appear too, including the idea of pacifism in Objecting to War (12 Aug), Scotland’s tradition of anti-war activism in From Red Clydeside to Radical Scotland (18 Aug) and collateral damage in Killing Civilians (26 Aug). Amid a wealth of other intriguing topics, Emmanuel Jal (pictured) joins Brett Bailey and Dr Tarak Barkawi to discuss how war destroys truths and lives (War, Atrocities and the Truth, 20 Aug) and the relationship between art and international politics relative to Scotland is also examined in Scotland in the Soft Power Era (28 Aug). (David Pollock) ■ The Hub, 473 2000, 9–28 Aug (not 15–17, 23–25), times vary, £6. See eif.co.uk for full listings.
CHILL-OUT ACTIVITIES Now that we're into the second week, all that culture might have you a bit frazzled. Here’s our pick of relaxing activities to help you chill out
Escape the crowds to Nitekirk at Greyfriars Kirk, which is providing a calm space to contemplate, meditate and pray in silence, or with music, poetry and art. Meanwhile, over at Triratna – The Buddhist Centre, rediscover your inner zen with Buddhist meditation focusing on the power of breathing to inspire confidence. Can’t sit still for that long? Get your hands dirty at the Tibetan Monks Art Workshop creating sand mandalas, prayer flags and butter sculptures. If your idea of relaxing is less spiritual and more
physical, then set free those happy endorphins with the Edinburgh’s New Town and its Gardens walk. Meet outside the Scott Monument to amble through the UK’s best preserved example of Georgian planning, or for the more adventurous, Hidden Gardens of the Royal Mile explores hard to find green spaces along the historic thoroughfare. For something a little more indulgent head along to
the Pommery Champagne Cafe Bar in the beautiful Signet Library for some deliciously decadent food and drink tastings. Fizz lovers should not miss the Champagne Tutored Tasting. If Scotch is more
your go, then treat yourself to Chocolate, Whiskies and Cocktails which promises to be as extravagant as it sounds. Those with an ale penchant should book early for Four Beers and a Burger, run by local Knots Brewery. (Maud Sampson) ■ Various venues, until 31 Aug, times and prices vary.
FIVE REASONS TO GO TO . . . MUSEUM AFTER HOURS
Indulge in adult entertainment This sounds saucier than it is. Leave the kids at home so you can enjoy an array of live comedy, cabaret, music and theatre performers specifically aimed at over 18s. For three nights, the traditional museum space takes on a whole new meaning when the sun goes down.
Learn stuff The good people at the museum want you to become the most well-rounded person on the block: workshops invite you to learn an array of new skills including foxtrot and WWI street games. You can even make your own Egyptian headdress. Who says you can’t have it all?
Explore the Orient On 22 August, indulge in Chinese tea- tasting, calligraphy, knot tying and a tai chi masterclass, before you unwind listening to world-famous Chinese guzheng musician Liao Zilan. And all without boarding a plane. Plus enjoy free entry to the exhibition Ming: The Golden Empire.
Wine and dine You’re likely to get tired becoming a kick-ass, foxtrot dancing, Chinese calligraphy expert, but don’t panic – in the Grand Gallery a host of friendly barmen will be on tap to keep you refreshed. For something more decadent, the Brasserie will be open for nibbles, dinner and drinks.
It’s curated by The List We know it's rude to blow your own trumpet, but we’re not one of the UK’s most popular cultural listing magazines for nothing. So feel safe in the knowledge that said entertainment is the pick of the best Edinburgh can offer during one of the world’s largest cultural events.
(Maud Sampson) ■ National Museum of Scotland, 0300 123 6789, 8, 15 & 22 Aug, 7.30pm, £16 (£14).
7–14 Aug 2014 THE LIST FESTIVAL 103