The world is ready for a party!

Gilly Pickup is swept up in the magic of Edinburgh's Festival Fringe as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.

FOR three weeks in August, the wonderfully irreverent spirit of the Fringe permeates Scotland's capital.

From household names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists hoping to build their careers, the festival - a whirl of theatre, comedy, dance, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word and exhibitions - is a sheer explosion of creative energy.

Comedy greats including Rowan Atkinson, Jo Brand, Billy Connolly, Ben Elton, Eddie Izzard, Stephen Fry and Tim Minchin have all cut their teeth and delighted audiences at the Fringe over the years.

Performing at the Gilded Balloon, Teviot, a venue described as a "neo gothic, mini castle housing nine performance spaces", is comedian Andrew Maxwell (visit his website at www.andrewmaxwellontour.com).

"It's my spiritual home, my Mecca, my school and my social club," he explains.

"I've been going to the Fringe for twenty-five years.

What I love most is the atmosphere, seeing friends, great audiences and being part of the best arts festival in the world.

"Edinburgh is so dear to me; the cobbled streets remind me of poetry; the air and the haar remind me I'm alive." Performing at the same venue is entertainer Jojo Sutherland (jojosutherland.co.uk), who tells me, "I live in Edinburgh, and for eleven months of the year it's tranquil.