There’s something for everyone at this year’s Edinburgh Ceilidh Culture festival. Ceilidh dancing and fiddle music galore will keep lovers of traditional music and dance happy. And those sceptical of the traditional arts scene may be pleasantly surprised at the addition of the street fair, showcasing food and drink, fashion, and craft – all with a Scottish twist. The festival runs from 26th March to 18th April, but with so many quality acts performing it can be hard to know which ones to pick. Here are our highlights…
Street Fair – Friday 2nd to Monday 5th April
Head down to Castle Street this Easter weekend for the brand new Ceilidh Culture street fair. It’s free to attend, and there will be a range of stalls selling lots of lovely Scottish crafts and produce.
Laura Marling – Wednesday 14th April
A hauntingly beautiful voice – and lyrics
to match – set Laura Marling well apart from her peers. Her first album ‘Alas I Cannot Swim’ was nominated for a Mercury Music prize, quite a feat for someone just out of high school. She has just released her new album, ‘I speak Because I Can’, which showcases a new, more mature sound while still staying true to her trademark dreamy, folksy roots. A must see.
Mairi Campbell – Friday 16th April
Mairi shot to fame when her version of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ was chosen to feature in international blockbuster ‘Sex and the City’ (remember the lonely New Year’s Eve scene?). She has now released her debut solo album, co-written by her husband, Dave Francis, and will be playing for one night only during Ceilidh Culture.
Kate Rusby – Sunday 18th April
Kate Rusby is something of a legend among fans of contemporary English folk music. Her Yorkshire twang beautifully accentuates the tales within her songs; stories of fate, heartbreak and lovers lost at sea. Rusby is both a master lyricist and a compelling performer who manages to breathe life into each and every one of her songs. A rare treat.
Rebecca Jamieson
