Festival

TOP 20 The number of acts performing at this year’s Festival might seem a trifle overwhelming, so here’s a round-up of 20 unmissable shows

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THEATRE THEATRE

The Gospel According to Jesus, Queen of Heaven Familiar stories told from the viewpoint of a transgendered Jesus. See feature, page 85. Summerhall, 5–30 Aug (not Mon & Tue). Blake Remixed Beatboxer and rapper Testament mashes together hip hop and the poetry of William Blake with aplomb. See feature, page 85. Underbelly Cowgate, 6–29 Aug (not 19).

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COMEDY VISUAL ART

Katherine Ryan: Kathbum Inspired by an impending trip back to her native Canada for her sister’s wedding, Ryan’s newest show explores themes of home and why she chose to seek out fame and fortune in the UK. Always personal, always worth listening to, this rising comedy talent is one of this Festival’s hottest tickets. See preview, page 31. The Stand 3 & 4, 6–22 Aug (not 17).

Adrienne Truscott’s a One-Trick Pony! Not so much a one-trick pony, but a Gimmicky Pantless Rape Lady (her words, not ours). See preview, page 49. Gilded Balloon, 5–17 Aug. Bailey’s Stardust David Bailey’s most iconic images are brought together in a showcase of his remarkable talent. See review at list.co.uk/edinburghfestival Scottish National Gallery, until 18 Oct.

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COMEDY DANCE

The Harmonium Project Fergus Linehan starts his first International Festival with a bang, as 59 Productions together with a little help from the Edinburgh Festival Chorus project a visual spectacle onto the Usher Hall. See feature, page 23. Usher Hall, 7 Aug. Nish Kumar: Long Word . . . Long Word . . . Blah Blah Blah . . . I’m so Clever A new show packed with quirky observations and intelligent storytelling. See interview, list.co.uk/edinburghfestival Pleasance Courtyard, 5–30 Aug.

Sylvie Guillem Sylvie Guillem embarks on her final world tour, beginning with this performance which features new works by Akram Khan and Russell Maliphant and existing creations by Mats Ek and William Forsythe. See feature, page 55. Festival Theatre, 8–10 Aug.

4 THE LIST FESTIVAL 6–13 Aug 2015