One of my clients, the EDI Group, have offices above Hunter Square in Edinburgh. For those that don't know the location, it's set slightly back from the Royal Mile which of course is currently awash with fringe performers of varying degrees of competence. And in fact, the precinct area directly in front of their offices becomes an inpromptu performing space.
Wednesday's monthly meeting began as a bunch of (peaceful) fan dancers took to this spontaneous stage so the studious atmosphere of the meeting was only disturbed when the throngs of people who had collected to watch decided to applaud them at the end of their routine. We weren't so lucky with the next act - some kind of children's Japanese choir. And as one of the clients bravely struggled through explaining a 3 page epic colour-coded spreadsheet to the accompaniment of energetic caterwauling, it all eventually proved too much for poor Becky and after several exasperated looks, Jim leapt up and shut the window, shutting out the lively festival soundtrack.
I feel sure that this variety and energy should be inspiring but of course in certain circumstances - as anyone who's ever tried to walk up the Royal Mile during these 3 weeks of August in a hurry will surely testify - it is only mildly irritating. Sour puss rant of the day over.