As published in the Belfast Telegraph today, 26th October, 2009 – the top 10 most visited attractions in Northern Ireland in 2008. How many have you visited?
1. Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre – 751,693
2. Oxford Island National Nature Reserve – 341,025
“A huge crowd packed themselves into this rather nice Music Venue in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast. Paul Casey was on stage first Introduced by BBC radio Ulster’s Gerry Anderson. Paul took to the stage accompanied by an Acoustic Guitar he had a nice 30 minutes to entertain the crowd who were with him from kick off. During his set he featured some songs from his brilliant new CD Scrapbook. Also he has just been added to The Chris Rea world tour as support which I’m sure he is delighted with.
After a 15 minute break Gerry Anderson welcomed Eilidh Patterson and her 5 piece band on stage to a thunderous applause at first Eilidh seemed nervous but as time went on she was more comfortable with the surroundings and the crowd. As this was her CD Launch all the musical content of the show featured tracks from the album. The Last time I caught her Live she was doing a solo show, but with a full band she was just great. This was a crackin Nights Entertainment.”
Kathleen Barclay
The Irish Connection Radio Show
www.feilefm.com
Kathleen is one half of the Irish Connection Radio Show (www.theirishconnectionradioshow.com) – you can tune into Sean at Feile FM 103.2fm or listen online at www.feilefm.com from 09.00am to midday on Sunday.
On this weeks show will be Red Hurley, Sean O’Farrell, and Lisa Stanley.
I want to make you aware that the funding for events has not transferred from DCAL to NITB as planned in October. The responsibility is still intended to transfer to NITB for all events taking place in 2010 – 2011. As a result NITB and DCAL are working very closely on the administration of the forthcoming funding round in anticipation of a transfer of responsibilities shortly.
I know there are some great ideas for events for next year that fall within the criteria for both the Event Growth Fund and the Major Event Fund and look forward seeing your applications. The funding packs are available today, Friday 23rd October, please see http://www.dcalni.gov.uk/index/events_unit/grant_funding_programme_.htm for full details.
If you have any ideas/queries you would like to chat through with either myself or Catherine Martin at DCAL before your submission then please feel free to do so.
When I received an email from Barry aka “Heidi Chic” inviting me and a friend to the Playhouse on the 9th October to see the Foyle Follies Cabaret show I had no hesitation in accepting. Although my best friend Beverley and I were not entirely sure what to expect we were not disappointed on any level.
The Playhouse Theatre was full to capacity with an unbelievable audience – how fantastic are Derry people – so friendly and they really know how to enjoy themselves.
Giving Beyonce a run for her money.
From the moment Candy Love, Heidi Chic and Fifi Fontaine took to the stage the whole audience were on their feet in sheer delight and enjoyment. We were all singing and dancing along with tears of laughter running down our face.
With storming tributes to Shirley Bassey, Cher, Susan Boyle (before and after the makeover!!), Village People, and Girls Aloud to name but a few it was sheer magic.
Girls Allowed?
The performances that stick in my head are the alternative song from Annie – Your Son will Come out Tomorrow (pure genius) – Dana, Beyonce and my absolute favourite of the night was the brilliant production of “Doll on a Music Box/Truly Scrumptious”.
Truly Scrumptious!
For a night to remember and great craic with a blend of cabaret and unadulterated Derry Humour book now – check out the dates for remaining 2009 and 2010 performances. Click here to be directed to the Foyle Follies Facebook Page.
Thanks guys for a fantastic night of fun and entertainment – I’ll definitely be back with a bus load of friends. xx
Embarrasing - they all look better than me!!My Boy Lollipop!WOW
