There are a number of shows about the first world war which look promising. The War, Russian director Vladimir Pankov’s new production, explores the terrible impact of conflicts and how art can provide a redemptive vision for the future. I Am, by the highly regarded New Zealand choreographer Lemi Ponifasio, is also about art’s relationship to the horrors of war. 

As ever, the Traverse and Northern Stage have strong programmes. Unfaithful and Theatre Uncut 2014 at the Traverse both look good and at Northern Stage the ones to watch include Confirmation, Britannia Waves the Rules and — pin in programme time — Show 6 by Mark Ravenhill which hasn’t been written yet!

Over at the Pleasance venues, fans of the Welsh poet will want to see Dylan Thomas’s Return Journey, a poetic celebration of the centenary of his birth. Light, a show about the revelations of Edward Snowden by the very good Theatre ad Infinitum company, should also be worth seeing.

Recommended events at the book festival include appearances by the novelist Karl Ove Knarsgaard, the poet Carol Ann Duffy and various debates and talks about the first world war and about Scottish independence. There is also a packed programme for young children and teenagers. 

If you like comedy, Stewart Lee’s brand of irony is unbeatable but other likely star turns are Luisa Omielan and Bridget Christie. And surely How To Achieve Redemption As A Scot Through The Medium Of Braveheart (right) is a must-see, on the basis of its title alone!

MIKE QUILLE