Festival Frenzy

August, it's pissing down ... yes, it's Fringe time!
A citizen of Edinburgh can do one of three things in August. You can go away on holiday, or buy in a load of provisions and stay at home all month. Or you can embrace all the joys and theatre of the world's biggest arts festival.
When I worked in town I freely admit I quickly grew tired of the relentless jollity of it all - pavements knee deep in unwanted fliers and your path constantly blocked by festival goers in no particular hurry to go anywhere. And yes, I'll admit I often found solace in the Jinglin' Geordie, an oasis of tranquility amid the Festival mayhem. No Fringe frolics there; it was pretty much a festival-free zone save for the odd (they're always odd) flyposter or the tourist who took a wrong turning only to find himself transported to a bygone Edinburgh and the pub that time forgot!
This year, though, I have decided to support the Fringe - it's not been inflicted on me, it's a choice I've made. On Friday I went into town to soak up the atmosphere (and a few cocktails in Tonic (see previous posting)) with street theatre on Princes Street and the High Street. Great atmosphere, but felt really embarrassed at the state of Princes Street - what a dreadful advertisement for Edinburgh.
Saturday was a day of rest, save for a brief visit to an art exhibition at Granton's Lighthouse in the evening - see, I am not adverse to a spot of culture although it was way over my head. And I won't be 'doing' any contemporary dance, either.
Sunday: music, Jools Holland and his big band at the Playhouse (terrific) and tonight it's performing arts and theatre with shows in Chambers Street and the Royal College of Surgeons. Four days in and I'm starting to get a wee bit tetchy. I have invented a new Festival game to keep myself amused, though. I will accept fliers from everyone who offers one, but every fifth person will be whacked over the heid with a copy of this year's Fringe Guide (which is pretty heavy). The flyer-offerers are not enjoying it much but I think it's great fun, and may launch the idea as an alternative Fringe performance next year.
Anyway, must dash - there are performances to be seen and over-priced drinks to be bought. The show must go on - au revoir!

I have attached some images from my epic journey into the heart of Luvvie Land for your delectation (see above).