What’s on: Five things to do in Edinburgh 21/7/2012

Published on 20/07/2012 12:33

Madonna at Murrayfield, a Douglas Adams adaptation, a stand-up showcase, disco dancing and all that jazz...

1 MUSIC: MADONNA

The Queen of Pop who has seen-off all challengers for her crown, at 53 brings her MDNA world tour to the Capital tomorrow.

Madonna’s remarkable longevity is down to her mental capabilities as much as her musical ones. Says Regular Music’s Mark Mackie, who has spent more than 30 years promoting some of the industry’s longest-established stars, “She’s always one step ahead of the competition. Not only is she a talented musician, she’s also very clever and astute. It’s that shrewdness that has enabled her to continue to be a trailblazer throughout her career. She’s a cultural icon.”

From her earliest days in the business when hit single Holiday charted in 1983, Madonna has led from the front earning recognition by the Guinness Book of World Records as the top-selling female recording artist of all time.

Yet despite three decades at the top, the Murrayfield show will be her first-ever performance in Scotland, although she’s certainly no stranger to the country, having married former husband Guy Ritchie at Skibo Castle in 2000.

Murrayfield Stadium, Roseburn Street, 5pm, £45-£125, 0131-346 5000

2 THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY RADIO SHOW

A ground-breaking new stage production of Douglas Adam’s classic radio show, re-uniting the original cast, including Simon Jones as Arthur Dent and guest-starring Neil Gaiman. Don’t forget your towel.
The Edinburgh Playhouse, Greenside Place, 7.30pm, £19–£29.50, 0844-871 3014

3 THE SATURDAY SHOW

A two-hour, five act stand-up showcase featuring several support acts and a short spot for a newcomer. With Pierre Hollins, Dave Longley, Antony Murray and host Scott Agnew.
The Stand, York Place, 7pm, £15, 0131-558 7272

4 EDINBURGH JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

Since 1978, the annual event has brought some the world’s most accomplished jazz and blues acts to the city, and this year’s line-up is no different.

Various venues, 0131-467 5200, www.edinburghjazzfestival.com

5 WASABI DISCO

Chris Wasabi returns for his notorious monthly disco night.
Sneaky Pete’s, Cowgate, 11pm, £3, 0131-225 1757