Festivals Reception, Edinburgh

On the evening of Monday 20 August, Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell hosted a reception for key organisers and stakeholders of Scotland’s festivals to show support and to celebrate the international profile and significant economic boost they bring.

Earlier this month, the UK Government announced £100,000 in funding for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to help it deliver a step change in showcasing emerging artistic talent to the world.

The reception included a performance by Circus Abyssinia from Ethiopia. Featuring the Konjowoch Troupe, their show “Ethiopian Dreams” is a retelling of the cast’s own journey towards founding a circus in the country. Showcasing exciting stunts and circus skills, the performance tells the story of brothers Bibi and Bichu joining the circus.

Latest figures show that Edinburgh’s festivals as a whole contribute £313 million to the Scottish economy.

During his visit to the festivals, Mr Mundell also saw ‘Free and Proud’ at Assembly George Square Studios and the “Sowhereto Africa” performance at Dancebase as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, as well as visiting the Edinburgh Art Festival, the Edinburgh International Festival and Army @ The Fringe to see “The Troth Akademi”, a story of how Indian men fought for the Allies in World War One.

David Mundell meets performers from Free and Proud at the Fringe

David Mundell meets performers from Circus Abyssinia

Performers from Circus Abyssinia perform for guests at the reception

Performers from Circus Abyssinia perform for guests at the reception