Theatre at Edinburgh International Festival 2016

Our Theatre editor delves into the Edinburgh International Festival programme, and finds five must-see shows from companies and playwrights from across the globe

Preview by Emma Ainley-Walker | 07 Apr 2016

EIF Director Fergus Linehan joked to the gathered press and patrons on the morning of 6 April that the launch of the Edinburgh International Festival programme heralds the end of winter. It certainly seemed so from the bright yellow promo material that surrounded him, and the sun peeking through the glass at the Festival Theatre. If you’re looking forward to summer already, we're here to help, with our top five picks of (mostly) theatre and dance to see at this August's International Festival. 

Deep Time

7 Aug, 10.30pm; Deep Time Arena

Technically not a piece of theatre or dance, but this free opening event is one to look forward to for sure. Following last year’s Harmonium Project, Deep Time will use Castle Rock and the Castle itself as the backdrop for its illuminations, all set to a score created by Mogwai (who can also be found in the contemporary music line-up performing their new soundtrack to Atomic). 

The Glass Menagerie 

5-21 Aug (not 9 or 16), 7.30pm; King's Theatre

John Tiffany directs this version of the famed Tennessee Williams play starring Cherry Jones. Tiffany’s career is rooted in Scotland, from studying in Glasgow to his time with the National Theatre of Scotland, and this production with the American Repertory Theatre is not the only transatlantic work in the programme. 

Anything That Gives Off Light

16-20, 21-26 Aug, various times; Edinburgh International Conference Centre

This co-production between the National Theatre of Scotland and Brooklyn-based ensemble the TEAM is a world premiere that could be a natural hit of the festival. Described as a “foot-stomping road-play,” this production combines Scottish and American folk traditions to explore national identities. 

monumental

8 & 9 Aug, 8pm; Edinburgh Playhouse

Most likely the festival’s stand-out dance piece, monumental brings together The Holy Body Tattoo dance ensemble with live music from Godspeed You! Black Emperor for a piece described as a “voyeuristic exploration of physical anguish and a celebration of human resilience.” 

The Shakespeare Celebration 

 A cop-out which allows three plays and one musical piece to be included in this list, it would be a crime if the International Festival were not honouring the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s death. Thomas Ostermeier and Schaubühne Berlin bring us Richard III (24 – 28 Aug, 7.30pm; Lyceum Theatre), Cheek by Jowl and Pushkin Theatre team up for a co-production of Measure for Measure (16-19 Aug, 8pm and 20 Aug, 3pm & 8pm; Lyceum) and Dan Jemmett brings us Shake, a farcical adaption of Twelfth Night (11-13 Aug, 7.30pm; 12-13 Aug, 2.30pm; Lyceum).

Over in classical music we have Berlioz’s Romeo et Juliette performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra (18 Aug, 8pm; Usher Hall). So in total, the EIF give us a history, a tragedy, a comedy and one of Shakespeare’s less clearly defined works – something for everyone.

http://www.eif.co.uk/2016