Brain-food events happening in Edinburgh this winter
The history of Nintendo, the wild world of the culture wars, the magical science of mushrooms – the chilly months are a hotbed of scintillating conversation in Edinburgh
There’s something about the perma-dark of winter that makes the idea of hiding in small venues listening to engaging conversation appealing. Below, we’ve found some of the best in conversation events and other fun to help you start your year better informed.
Ash Sarkar: In conversation
Perhaps best known as a co-founder of Novara Media, Ash Sarkar has made her name as one of the few left-leaning pundits regularly invited on television. Her latest book, Minority Rule, became a bestseller for its complicated and witty exploration of the ‘culture war’ and its continued impact on our lives. As the book is published in paperback, Sarkar will be on hand for an interview, audience Q&A and book signing.
Assembly Roxy, Edinburgh, Friday 27 February.
If We Lose Our Languages, Do We Lose Ourselves?
Language and identity will be in the spotlight in this discussion on speech as a source of belonging. From migration, economic pressures, conflict and technological changes, an academic panel will discuss how languages alternately disappear and thrive. This event is part of RSE Investigates, a yearly programme of free public events exploring a single topic in depth.
The Royal Society Of Edinburgh, Saturday 21 February.
Seed Talks: The Science Of Trauma & The Body
The body is a resilient tool according to clinical psychologist Dr Angela Kennedy, who’ll discuss how it can play a vital role in psychological survival, how collective healing can be a positive route of travel, and how art can impact the nervous system of traumatised people. Kennedy will also take part in a Q&A.
Assembly Roxy, Edinburgh, Tuesday 24 February.
Nussaibah Younis With Nicola Sturgeon For Fundamentally
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, a known bookworm, will chat with Nussaibah Younis about her novel Fundamentally, which follows a heartbroken academic as she accepts a UN job in Iraq rehabilitating ISIS women. Younis herself is a peacebuilding practitioner and a globally recognised expert on contemporary Iraq. Expect this to be a highly illuminating, politically stimulating conversation.
Ps & Gs Church, Edinburgh, Monday 2 February.
Michael Portillo: A Life Of Two Halves
From one political firebrand to, well, Michael Portillo, the onetime Tory politician turned teatime telly fixture. He’ll discuss his varied career and colourful upbringing, hopping from his time running for leadership of the Conservative Party to his endearing railway travels.
Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh, Sunday 15 March.
Keza McDonald On Nintendo
For people of a certain age, the colourful visuals of the Super Nintendo were a gateway drug into gaming, helping shape their tastes for decades to come. From Mario to Zelda, Keza MacDonald’s new book will explore the vaunted pantheon of Nintendo’s output in games and consoles, telling the story of how the company has developed into a cultural behemoth since its humble beginnings in 1889.
Larch Leith Walk, Edinburgh, Tuesday 24 February.
Fantastic Fungi
Fancy making your own mushrooms? This two-hour workshop will explore how fungus can help build resilience, in what event organisers are calling a ‘radical mycology’. You’ll be given oyster mushroom grow kits to take home, and you’ll be taught how to make candle holders from mycelium. Not bad for the £6 entry fee.
Bridgend Inspiring Growth, Edinburgh, Sunday 18 January.
Main picture: Jonathan Ring.
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