Distant Memories of the Near Future, Summerhall ★★★★

As the relentless, hammering beat of “The Rat” faded away, the Walkmen’s singer Hamilton Leithauser was evidently in buoyant mood. “Like riding a bike,” he declared to the Glasgow crowd, and this was a statement that proved consistently accurate throughout the 75-minute set, as the reunited quintet played in a manner that felt like they’d never been away.

Dark Noon, Pleasance at EICC ★★★★★

The Insider, ZOO Southside ★★★★

A toy car – in fact, a mobile home with comically enormous antenna on top – shudders over arms and shoulders as if they were mountain ranges. A colossal polar bear comforts its curious cub. A lifesize puppet grandmother is chased up and down stairs by her over-enthusiastic stairlift.

Maureen, House of Oz ★★★★

PLEASE LEAVE (a message), Underbelly, Cowgate ★★★★

With its throbbing crowds and its performers baying for attention (and for audiences), the Edinburgh Fringe can be a hectic, raucous place. But for anyone who needs a break from the crammed-full, in-your-face stand-up gigs, thankfully three shows provide far calmer, more intimate experiences – involving just you and one other.

The Grand Old Opera House Hotel, Traverse Theatre ★★★

Adults, Traverse Theatre ★★★