Fringe by the Sea returns to North Berwick, from the 4th to the 10th of August.
Possibly more douce but also more family-friendly than its big-city sister up the coast in thespian-thronged Edinburgh, Fringe by the Sea continues to offer seaside holiday makers, locals and those who want to escape the hubbub that is Edinburgh in August something for all of them.
Kicking off on Monday 4th August, events throughout the week include talks on food and cooking by Sue Lawrence and Carina Contini, an appearance by children’s entertainer extraordinaire Mr, Boom, a traditional tea dance with a ragtime theme, sets from tribute bands ‘Hotel California’ and ‘Dirty Harry’ (in case you hadn’t guessed, the Eagles and Debbie Harry are the bands respectively celebrated).
Scotland’s traditional music gets fresh treatment from performers as diverse and original as Julie Fowlis (Monday) and the Wrigley Sisters (Friday), while veteran musicians Phil Cunningham and Aly Bain appear in concert on Saturday 9th.
A major event for blues fans will be the set from Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band (Friday), while the inventive ska band Bombskare will end Friday evening on an exuberant note.
Comedians Phil Jupitus, Jo Caulfield and Grant Stott should keep everyone smiling through Saturday evening, when all three appear.
Two spiegeltents pitched by the harbour contain most of the evening performances, while during the day a variety of street food stalls operate nearby, offering Moroccan, barbecue and other delights.
Late night bus and train services throughout the week and at the weekend mean even Edinburghers can enjoy a day by the sea with a difference.
Tickets and information available via www.fringebythesea.com and from the ticket booth at the junction of the High Street and Quality Street, North Berwick.
copyright Bill Dunlop 2014
first published on edinburghguide.com 2014