Aida

is Edinburgh Grand Opera's current performance at the Festival Theatre in Clerk St. Every September this amateur Opera company starts rehearsals. By day they are receptionists, lawyers and accountants by night they sing, make costumes, and perfect their moves. By Spring they are up to three rehearsals a week. Their opening night was last night and I'm due to see my friend Alison make her annual debut in the chorus on Saturday. I've seen several of their previous performances and I'm always amazed at what they pull of with hard work, enthusiasm and love for singing. Tickets available from the Festival Theatre Box Office 0131 662 6000.