Edinburgh’s Freestival has won a new lease of life with the announcement that it has secured space at one of the Capital’s most spectacular entertainment venues.
For the first time in 150 years the Victorian C-listed arches, originally constructed in 1875 to create double-fronted openings beneath the city’s Jeffrey Street designed in an effort to improve overcrowding and poverty along the Royal Mile, will be regularly open to the public, shedding its previous use as purely industrial storage space. The double-height brickwork arches, first unveiled at a launch party in June, will provide a spectacular performance space accommodating between 50 and 80 people beneath each arch.
Dan Adams of Freestival said, “We will be bringing a huge variety of shows to the arches, combining Fringe veterans and established favourites with promising newcomers and family shows…”
The announcement to use the arches follows weeks of uncertainty surrounding Freestival’s main venue having been forced to move from its previous location at the Cowgatehead and joins Fingers Piano Bar, Sin Club and the Thistle King James Hotel in the line-up of other Freestival venues across the city.
Freestival partner La Favorita Delivered along with sponsors Birra Moretti are set to create a food, drink and entertainment area in the courtyard immediately in front of the arches that offers stunning views across the Waverley Valley towards Calton Hill. Brand director for La Favorita Delivered Stephanie Yapp said, “Freestival has always been a great match for us, delivering high calibre acts which attract a diverse audience, with many coming from Edinburgh and the surrounding area.”
Freestival will run at the arches from August 3 to 31 offering 120 shows on 10 stages across 6 venues plus a substantial music offering across 3 venues.
For more information, visit www.freestival.co.uk