The Famous Spiegeltent @ George Square, Edinburgh, 25 Jul - 31 Aug

The Famous Spiegeltent has quickly become an Edinburgh Festival institution, taking over George Square in the heart of the University area during August and providing an incomparably eclectic entertainment schedule. As always, there’s something for everyone – except that dull bloke in work who talks about the variable merits of toasters – with an emphasis on international musical styles and passionate live performances. Shows are put on all through the day, and several bands fill residential slots. With over 20 scheduled shows a-piece, the main focus of this year’s programme is the burlesque cabaret of The Tiger Lillies (dates vary between 7-30 Aug) and La Clique (5-30 Aug), but the worldwide reach of Spiegeltent’s talent scouts has also brought in two exciting Australian acts: chamber pop seven-piece My Friend The Chocolate Cake (12-17 Aug, 21-22 Aug), and grandiose folk singer Lior (13-14 Aug). From eastern Europe come gypsy-punks Paprika Balkanicus (31 Aug), while Kansas City hillbillies The Wilders (4-10 Aug) return after a hugely successful run here last year. There’s plenty of homegrown exotica too, with Skinny faves Orkestra del Sol (11, 18 & 29 Aug) lined up for three shows of global party jams, and Scottish folk innovators Shooglenifty (dates vary between 11-24 Aug) and The Poozies (19-20 Aug) both expected in town. Best of all, there’s Princes Square’s favourite one-man band: use your imagination, jump over the moon, over the moon with Mr. Boom (9, 23, 10 & 24 Aug). Or just buy a ticket. There’s plenty more, check full listings in our sister magazine Fest throughout August. [Ally Brown]