It’s a truth universally acknowledged that Edinburgh comes to life during August, when performing arts of every kind fill every inch of the city centre. From astonishing circus acts to small poetry readings, the festival is a vibrant annual celebration of music, theatre, opera and dance.
Images: VisitScotland
THE EICC will once again be part of this colourful celebration of culture as we transform into Pleasance at EICC, with a truly diverse line-up of shows including two of The Pleasance’s headline acts: theatre production Dark Noon and physical theatre and circus act The Spirit of Ireland.
A unique, mind-blowing theatrical experience, Dark Noon reimagines the history of America. Seven South African actors tell the story of a time when 35 million Europeans fled across the Atlantic. Native Americans, Chinese immigrants and African slaves race for land, gold, Hollywood's silver screen and, ultimately, a home. Thought-provoking and moving, Dark Noon will be at the EICC from 2-27 August.
Meanwhile, The Spirit of Ireland offers a very different theatre experience. Set in an Irish pub, an authentic five-piece band from Ireland showcases Celtic music, comedy and dancing. Attendees are invited to come on down to the Irish Celtic pub, meet its charismatic landlord and hear the legends of its 1000-year-old history. Catch the performance - and have some great craic! - at the EICC from 7-27 August. Check out the full line-up of The Pleasance events throughout August.
What to see (and what to eat!)
The EICC also has the pleasure of hosting some of the most loved acts on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, including Trainspotting Live (3-27 August), Sh!t-faced Shakespeare (2-27 August), plus Buffy Revamped, a new comedy stage show taking UK and international theatres by storm. Visit our What’s On page for our full list of shows and ticket information.
Our location in the West End places us at the heart of the vibrant Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with plenty of festival action taking place in the surrounding neighbourhood and beyond.
During the festival, we’ll be providing a brilliant selection of street food to satiate your hunger and taste buds whilst you're show-hopping. Dishes will include chicken, falafel or halloumi shawarma, fried chicken boxes topped with pickles and Katsu sauce, and Mexican and Middle-Eastern style loaded wedges.
Partnering with The Pleasance
Our partnership with The Pleasance sees the EICC hosting talent from around the world, during Edinburgh’s busiest and liveliest month.
"Our partnership with the EICC has enabled us to expand our programme ... I know I’m excited for this August and will be running and cycling between our three sites soaking up the programme and all it has to offer."
Anthony Alderson, Director of the Pleasance said: "Our partnership with the EICC has enabled us to expand our programme, hosting a range of larger scale shows such as Dark Noon and A Comedy of Operas. The EICC programme sits alongside our other amazing venues - the Courtyard and the Dome - and allows us to showcase the very best of artists presenting work at the Fringe.
“With much-loved theatrical and comedy names, noteworthy newcomers, international inspirational talent and insightful talks, I know I’m excited for this August and will be running and cycling between our three sites soaking up the programme and all it has to offer."
We’re looking forward to welcoming the acts and their audiences through our doors in August, and showcasing what the EICC has to offer as a festival venue. See you then!