This autumn’s programme at Summerhall is teeming with the usual engaging combination of film, art and live performance to suit any culture vulture. Here’s what we’re looking forward to at Edinburgh’s most vibrant venue this September and October. 

Beyond Blonde

The iconic Marilyn Monroe will receive a short retrospective at Summerhall throughout September and October with three films showcasing her comedic and dramatic talent. This trio of her most essential performances includes the witty musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Billy Wilder’s racy comedy The Seven Year Itch, and the overwrought drama The Misfits, which finds the usually buoyant Monroe at her most intense. 

From Thursday 15 September – Sunday 2 October.

Ride the Wave + Q&A

Following the elites of the surfing world, the award-winning Scottish documentary Ride The Wave centres on14-year-old surfing star Ben across a period of three years as he tests his mettle on the waves. This special screening features a post-film Q&A featuring director Martyn Robertson. 

Friday 23 September.

Kakatsitsi Master Drummers

The Kakatsitsi Master Drummers are a group of traditional drummers, dancers and singers from Ghana committed to sharing the rich traditions of Africa’s drum and dancing. While rooted in history, their music adds modern elements to make their shows as accessible as possible. Whether you’re searching for an entry point into a new sound or want to see one of the best drumming groups in the world, these master drummers will play a spectacular show. 

Thursday 29 September.

^{The Kakatsitsi Master Drummers}

249 Queer Party For All

It’s big, it’s exciting and it’s beautifully queer. The 249 Queer Party For All is hitting Summerhall after two sell-out parties in Leith, and it promises to bring together a night’s worth of queer club culture. Expect banging techno, Kate Bush remixes and belly dancers galore. 

Friday 30 September. 

Optimo (Espacio)

Long-running DJ duo Optimo (Espacio) cemented their reputation as clubbing legends years ago, and this performance as part of the Nothing Ever Happens Here strand will show exactly why. JD Twitch and JG Wilkes will be joined by Glasgow’s Pleasure Pool for a night of unfiltered euphoria. 

Friday 7 October.

^{Optimo (Espacio)}

Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind

As part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind is curated by, and features work from those who have lived with mental health issues. This collection of work provides an insightful glimpse into the world of mental health, opening an engaging forum for discussion on the issue.

Opens on Tuesday 11 October.

Lubomyr Melnyk

Lubomyr Melnyk is one of the most highly regarded pianists of our time, known for his virtuosic playing style and tireless experimentation loaded with complexity. This performance will find him delve into his innovative and transportive back catalogue, from his early compositions in the 1980s to his most recent album Fallen Trees. 

Wednesday 19 October. 

^{Lubomyr Melnyk}

Many more shows will hit Summerhall as we enter the chilly season, with performances from Scottish indie rock band Meursault, rapper Kapil Seshasayee and Russian protest art group Pussy Riot taking place throughout November. 

Keep up to date with Summerhall’s full programme at www.summerhall.co.uk.