The iconic Belfast Harbour Commissioner Office, built over 150 years ago for the princely sum of just £8000, is set to make history this week as it turns itself into an arts venue for two nights only on August 25th (Thurs) and August 26th (Fri). The building will change its status from a Belfast iconic building to one of the most FUNKY venues you could ever imagine.
The Italian palazzo architecture is set to rattle and roll to the sounds of James Brown, Stevie Wonder and George Clinton, for two nights only, when one of Ireland’s top up and coming DJ’s take over the venue with 6 international dancers and a eager audience keen to enjoy the very best in FUNK! The show is part of a nationwide tour by the award winning Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre Company, whose new show, FUNK!, takes over the Belfast building with this new show, which has been described as the “most captivating, brilliant, fun and downright funky shows ever attempted in Northern Ireland!”
After this unique dance show in one of Belfast most iconic buildings, the DJ will take over and the audience takes control, dancing the night away to some of the most iconic sounds of FUNK ever recorded. From the original Godfather of FUNK, James Brown, George Clinton and Bootsy Collins with “Party on Plastic”, the one and only Stevie Wonder with the magical “Superstition” and finally to breathtaking Gloria Walker with “You Hit the Spot”, FUNK is certainly going to hit the right spot in Belfast!
“Tickets are on sale now and are priced at only £6/£4(con) for this historic moment in not just Belfast’s history, but the history of FUNK” commented Dylan Quinn. “Tickets can be purchased on the door, online at www.dylanquinndance.org/ or via the ticket hotline on 028 6632 8686.
The founder and main performer with the Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre commented “So far we have performed to great audiences across Northern Ireland, however we are particularly keen in performing in this magnificent building which is one of the most wonderful buildings I have ever seen.”
“Under the guidance of Dylan Quinn, one of Northern Ireland’s leading dance practitioners, FUNK! promises to be a highly engaging performance that will showcase some of the very best local and international dancers working in this genre “ commented Gilly Campbell, Dance and Drama Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland. “The Arts Council is pleased to support FUNK as it tours venues across Northern Ireland.”
“If you want to come along in your full FUNK gear, please don’t be afraid to dress up and dance or simply sit back and enjoy the show! After the performance the DJ will play on, drinks will be available and you can go back to those heady days of the 60’s when FUNK ruled!” concluded Dylan Quinn. For ticket, group discounts and tour date information call 028 6632 8686.
Birmingham Stage Company’s productions of Horrible Histories– Ruthless Romans and Awful Egyptiansare currently on an invasion tour and will arrive at The Grand Opera House on, Tuesday 20 September until Saturday 24 September. Real Life actors and amazing Bogglevision 3D effects, help the audience to experience life in Roman Times or Ancient Egypt.
Families must not miss out on this awful chance to travel back in time. Treat your whole family to a great show – both funny and historically informative and discover all the really ‘yucky’ bits of history that teachers and serious books never tell you!
The shows can be enjoyed by everyone from 5 to 105, but don’t forget your Mummy!
These two shows are adapted from Terry Deary’s best selling Horrible Histories books which are currently in its second series on BBC TV.
In Ruthless Romans you’ll find out how the Romans made murder into a sport in the Colosseum with more fouls than a Premiership football match! You’ll see eight evil emperors, killer kings, gory gladiators and grim ghouls! With incredible Bogglevision effects you’ll feel what it was really like to be a Roman soldier. See him fighting in the greatest army ever seen, witnessing fierce battles against hordes of grotty Celts – but watch out for those flaming arrows whizzing straight for your head!
In Awful Egyptians you’ll learn the truth of Tutankhamun and his creepy curse and find out the fearsome facts about phabulous pharaohs, mean mummies and gruesome grave robbers. You’ll see how the Egyptians really lived 5000 years ago – how dead bodies were turned into mummies and how the huge pyramids were built. Dare you enter through the Gates of the Afterlife? Beware the Evil Eye of Horus – has it got its eye on you?
Birmingham Stage Company are well known for their great stage versions of children’s classics many such as The Jungle Book, Tom’s Midnight Garden, Kensuke’s Kingdom and many Roald Dahl adaptations including Danny the Champion of the World and most recently George’s Marvellous Medicine have played at the Grand Opera House .
Horrible Histories Rotten Romadn and Awful Egyptians is on at the Grand Opera House from Tuesday 20 until Saturday 24 September. All shows cost £15.00 with special discounts if tickets for both shows are purchased. Contact the box office on 028 9024 1919, online at www.goh.co.uk or visit the ticket desk in the Theatre foyer.
World’s No. 1 Female Artist Joins the World’s No. 1 Vodka in Search for the Most Original Nightlife in the Universe
Yesterday in Dublin The Smirnoff Co. launched the next Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project™ with the audacious goal of getting 10 million people to discover, share and swap the most original nightlife experiences in 50 countries. The Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project is an ambitious attempt to discover the world’s most unique and interesting nightlife, culminating in one-of-a-kind experiences on the same night all over the world.
This year, Madonna joins the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project to find the best dancer to join her next tour. To celebrate this unique opportunity, the Smirnoff Ireland dance troupe featuring Northern Ireland’s Debbie McCann took to the streets of Dublin for impromptu performances all over the City Centre to spread the word.
Pictured at the launch of the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project™ is Belfast girl Debbie McCann from dance troupe Razzle Dazzle.
In May over 2,000 people across Northern Ireland witnessed the best of Argentinean nightlife come alive at Kellys Portrush as part of the region’s first Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange experience. Revellers across Northern Ireland and the world are being invited to co-create and participate in the latest Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project by contributing ideas on what makes their local nightlife distinct in the categories of drinks, dance, fashion, music, places, and more, creating a nightlife cocktail of unique events. The most inspiring suggestions from each region will be captured online and then exchanged with another country in November. By participating online, fans will have the chance to win a place at one of the global events or experience another country’s party at a Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project event in their own city. Go to www.facebook.com/smirnoffireland to find out more.
One of the consistent aspects in nightlife culture around the world is the importance of dance. As well as submitting ideas on what makes their country’s nightlife special, fans can enter an exclusive dance competition online. Madonna will attend one of the selected Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project experiences where finalists will compete in front of her for the winning spot. The winner may get the opportunity to join Madonna on her next tour as one of her dancers.
“What attracted me to the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project is the combination of participating in the celebration of nightlife around the world and the opportunity to discover the world’s best unknown dancers,” said Madonna. “The best dancers are always in the clubs looking for the most original experience, just like Smirnoff is doing.”
The Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project strives to showcase, mix and unite the world through unique nightlife and as such the best dancers from around the world will be highlighted for their own style and flair. The submission process for the dance competition begins today runs until October 10th. To enter, hopefuls must submit a 60-second dance video. For details on the dance submission process and terms and conditions, visit www.smirnoff.com.
Simon Burch, Global Brand Director for The Smirnoff Co., said, “Smirnoff mixes original nightlife from around the world and gives everyone the chance to be there through extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences. Who better to decide the best in the dance category than Madonna herself?”
As the world’s number one vodka, The Smirnoff Co. has been at the heart of nightlife culture for generations and now hosts the world’s biggest spirits community on Facebook with people participating in The Smirnoff Co. events, commenting and sharing information on nightlife around the world.
The 50 countries participating in the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project include: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Dubai, Ecuador, El Salvador, Germany, Ghana, Great Britain, Greece, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, Trinidad, Turkey, Uruguay, United States, Venezuela and Vietnam.
The Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project, including the exclusive dance competition, is the first component of a multi-faceted agreement between Madonna and her partner Live Nation and Diageo, the parent company of The Smirnoff Co. More details to be released in the coming months. For updates on Madonna, please visit www.facebook.com/madonna. To enter the Madonna dance competition you must be over 21 years of age. Terms and Conditions apply.
Celebrating the tenth year of the amazing NI International Airshow in Portrush, Coleraine Borough Council is set to welcome a number of crowd favourites.
The free show, sponsored by SPAR and Northern Ireland Tourist Board, takes place at the seaside town on the first weekend of September. The ever-popular Wingwalkers are back with a stunning new paint job and a new name, Team Breitling, named after the famous Swiss watches. The thrilling stunt show which features girls standing on the wing while the aircraft performs loops and spins has always been popular with spectators and was much missed from last year’s programme. To celebrate the tenth show the team has made a special effort to make it to the north coast and will use the occasion to give a thrill of a lifetime to our VIP guest during the show.
Welcoming the stunning helicopter displays, Coleraine Borough Council has secured the first appearance in Ireland of the famous Vietnam Pair, (a Huey and Hughes Loach), two American military helicopters from the 1960s. A Royal Navy Sea King will also display on Saturday and perform a rescue demonstration in partnership with RNLI Portrush lifeboat. All three helicopters will be on static display at the tennis courts at Ramore Head for the public to get a closer look. For those who want to take to the air themselves, there will be helicopter pleasure flights operating all weekend.
One of the reasons for the spectacular popularity of the event is that it is much more than just an airshow. There will be something to appeal to all tastes. The shoreline is packed with arena shows such as England’s Crazy Bear Roadshow, Yorkshire’s Rapide Brothers, World War 2 re-enactors, model aircraft, quiz shows and giveaways, 80 trade stands, Royal Navy rugby, RAF Typhoon cockpit, simulators, Candy Devine’s Downtown Radio show, Royal Marine Unarmed Combat demo and of course the parade and poppy drop to mark the 90th year of the Royal British Legion.
Best of all, because the show is right in the heart of Portrush, visitors can pop off to some of the best entertainment and eateries in the area as sponsors Barry’s, Wine Bar and the Adelphi will be welcoming guests and visitors to the area.
The Airshow which enjoys support from Causeway SPAR Retail Group takes place on 3rd and 4th September, starting at 11am on both days. For further info please contact Coleraine Borough Council on 028 7034 7234 or click www.niinternationalairshow.co.uk
This August Bank Holiday, Monday 29th, The McKee Clock Arena will come alive with an array of magical, whacky performances and street theatre guaranteed to blow your socks off!
Come on down with your family and friends to sample the entertainment which will include the wonderful Reckless Invention with Turbo Jonez. Turbo Jonez brings you the history of 80’s rap and breakdance paying homage to Lionel Ritchie, a tribute to Rick Astley, a love of Grandmaster Flash and an adoration of MC Hammer. It’s mad, it’s loud and it’s VERY funny!
Silent clown, Vinny will entertain with physical comedy and astonishing feats of balance and co-ordination. This charming performer never fails to make every child feel like a complete star! His gentle style, combines physical comedy, balancing feats, an array of juggling skills and uninhibited audience participation. Vinny makes the straightforward seem impossible and the seemingly impossible look easy. He can’t tie a shoelace and has a memory like a sieve but with a little help from his friends in the audience he is somehow able to perform astonishing feats of balance and co-ordination.
Also making an appearance is the delightful Syrovy. Inspired by the comic routines of Buster Keaton, Harpo Marx, Gene Kelly and Neil Armstrong, the show is both spectacular and meticulously detailed. This beautifully constructed and executed routine combines traditional circus skills and acrobatics to explore one man’s ambivalent relationship with everyday objects.
Keeping the show running with his delightful vaudeville style will be compere Gareth Jones. Thoroughly entertaining he will guide you through the day!
The frolics kick off at 12 and shows run til 5pm so don’t miss out on this FREE family fun day out, guaranteed entertainment for everyone!
For further information, please phone our Tourist Information Centre on: 028 9127 0069 or visit www.northdowntourism.com
LIMAVADY and the wider northwest is abuzz with anticipation as the first ever Stendhal Festival of Art edges ever closer.
This Friday and Saturday (August 19 and 20) will see festival goers descend on Ballymully Cottage Farm on the outskirts of Limavady to revel in what promises to be the start of something special.
30 musical acts from all over Ireland and the UK will take to four stages over the weekend, including the Murcury Music Prize nominated Turin Brakes, rising local star Rainy Boy Sleep, legendary Irish troubadour Andy Irvine, The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland and many more.
On top of the music Stendhal Festival will also be showcasing the best in local Art, Dance, Poetry, Drama and Craft.
If that wasn’t enough there will also be a Children’s play area and Kids workshops so that the whole family can come and enjoy an event the likes of which the Limavady Borough has never experienced before.
This week The Northern Constitution takes an in-depth look at what Stendhal has to offer and talks with the organisers who will be answering some of the more frequently asked questions that have arisen regarding the event.
MUSIC
Music is the most exciting aspect of the Festival, the artists performing at the Festival encompass a wide variety of musical genres and there is certainly something to appeal to all musical tastes.
TURIN BRAKES
Festival headline act, Turin Brakes
Headlining are Turin Brakes, the modern folk duo whose critically acclaimed albums such as ‘The Optimist LP’, ‘Ether Song’, and ‘Jackinabox’, saw them lead a revival in the popularity of the folk genre.
Their spellbinding song-writing was described by the NME as: “Fully formed and brutally emotive,” and takes the listener on a journey from melancholy through hope, love through isolation and humour through desperation, and sometimes that is just in one song.
Best known for their 2004 smash hit single ‘Painkiller’, the boys from Balham have received mountains of critical acclaim and produced five outstanding studio albums.
RAINY BOY SLEEP
This summer just keeps getting better and better for Rainy Boy Sleep, aka Stevie Martin.
Not satisfied with slots at Hard Rock Calling, Glasgowbury, Glastonbury and of course Stendhal, it has been announced that Rainy Boy Sleep is to play the BBC Introducing Stage at this year’s Reading Festival which takes place on August 26-28 and is headlined by the awe inspiring Muse.
Stevie is a well known face on the music scene in Limavady and the Northwest. Over the past few years he has been honing his unique, intimate style of performing locally around the bars of the Roe Valley such as the Alexander Arms, Frank Owens and in particular the Corner Bar.
His original material such as ‘Your Face’ and ‘Manchester Post’ are fantastic examples of what he is all about, haunting vocals, clever lyrics, strong guitar work and slick production. But the people of Limavady have known that for a while now. However, those were Stevie Martin gigs, as Rainy Boy Sleep he has upped the ante and incorporates a Boss Loop Station to bulk up his sound and give his material an added dimension.
THE GORGEOUS COLOURS
The Gorgeous Colours are a five-piece from Dublin that blend countless genres together to create a sound that is very much their own. Their most recent single “It’s OK to Be Normal” – described by one blogger as “quite possibly the best track of the year so far released by an Irish band” – follows the band’s critically-acclaimed The Creatures Down Below EP, which was funded by fans through an online pledge campaign. The video for the title track of the won the Viewer’s Choice Award for best video at the 2010 IMTV awards.
ROCK
For those about to rock Stendhal, we salute you.
Getting the rock on the road are the sensational Swanee River, a powerful blend of soul, blues and rock and roll. Hailing from the city of Derry, beginning in September 2004, Swanee River have a huge reputation around the local music scene and are a band in high demand, Stendhal is just one of 3 gigs they have lined up on August 20.
Intermission are another hot prospect coming out of the Maiden City. A three-piece who spectacularly infuse powerful driving riffs with the unique vocals of front man Glenn Rosborough to produce a sound that no doubt raise a few eyebrows at Stendhal.
Key of Atlas are considered one of Belfast’s best up and coming new bands.
Previously chosen as BBC ATL’s Product of Northern Ireland, much of Key of Atlas’ appeal can be attributed to their enthusiasm and charisma on stage, they have a genuine connection with the crowd and this really shows on stage.
Other Rock acts taking to the stage are Tommy Shots from Portrush, We are Burkes Lounge and Chase Atlantis, both from Limavady and Tin Pot Operation from Belfast
CLASSICAL
The much heralded Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland will be bringing along a fifteen piece string section to delight all who attend the inaugural event on August 20.
The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland (CBOI) was established in 1995 as a means of bringing young people together from different backgrounds and communities, through the powerful medium of music. Composed of 130 young people from many parts of Ireland, the CBOI is one of Ireland’s flagship peace initiatives and has become the most acclaimed youth orchestra that Ireland has ever produced. In addition, the CBOI provides essential musical education for 5,000 children in schools all over the country and often fills a void where no musical outlet exists.
JAZZ AND BLUES
Stendhal Festival of Art is delighted to have Mark Black on board for this year’s festival. No stranger to the festival scene, Mark has performed his distinctive style of “rootsy blues” that often combines rock, country and Celtic influences at Glastonbury in 2009, and a string of others throughout the UK, including Limavady’s own Jazz and Blues Festival.
Other Jazz and Blues acts include, The Mean Mistreaters, Joanna Higgins and The Limavady Big Band.
IRISH TRADITIONAL
If anyone doubts that music is a timeless and a universal language, consider the career of Andy Irvine.
Musician, singer, songwriter, Andy has maintained his highly individual performing skills throughout at 45 year career.
Andy Irvine
From Sweeney’s men in the mid-60’s, to the enormous success of Planxty along-side Christy Moore in the 70’s, then from Patrick Street to Andy Irvine & Donal Lunny’s Mozaik, Andy has been a world music pioneer and an icon for traditional music and musicians.
As a soloist, Andy fills the role of the archetypal troubadour. To quote the Irish Times, “Often copied, never equalled,” his repertoire consists of Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dances and a compelling cannon of his own self-penned songs.
Andy is playing a special acoustic set at 9pm on Friday August 19 for all our first year campers, but for those who have a day ticket and don’t want to miss out, you can arrive out to Ballymully Cottage Farm after 8pm on the Friday and your day pass will get you in to see this special performance.
FOLK
Along with Turin Brakes, other folk acts on show at Stendhal include Galway based Queen Elvis, and the Gypsy Folk stylings of Balkan Alien Sound.
PUNK
The winners of our first People’s Choice contest on Facebook, Sons of Encouragement are an altenative pop/punk act from Carrickfergus.
Influenced by bands such as Green Day and Blink 182, the boys have already garnered some very good reviews at home, and impressively, the States, but what matters most is that YOU wanted them at Stendhal.
HARD ROCK
Lantern for a Gale are a five piece hardcore band from the North Coast of Northern Ireland.
Formed in Spring 2010 to create music influenced by but not limited to; devastation, human adversity, pounding rhythms, hurtling roars, collapsing mountains, caustic vocal frictions, broken equipment, expectations, kicks to the head, nerves and crushing melody, Lantern for a Gale take no prisoners with their ferocious live sets.
RAP METAL
Bomb City 7 are a unique entity of their own who seamlessly blend the lyrical fluidity of hip-hop with the bone crushing force of rock. Their performances are explosive and with pop sensibilities they put a modern twist on hip-hop whilst still retaining the attitude of punk rock
ACOUSTIC
With musical influences including Tom Waits, Bruce Springsteen, Sting and James Taylor, Lee Rogers’ brand of blues-laced rock/pop has the distinctive charm of fellow countrymen Van Morrison and Paul Brady while remaining uniquely his own. Other acoustic performers include; Warren Boyd, The Steve Experiment, Ruairi Connolly, I am J.A.C. aka Stephen Roddy and Kevin Rotherham
BLUEGRASS
The Down And Out Bluegrass Band from Belfast are a strictly traditional old time bluegrass band with no fancy frills, just straight forward country pickin’ and harmony with a good hard driving style. POETRY
Along with performances from local poets, the poetry aspect of the event will be headlined by The Poetry Chicks.Abby Oliveira and Pamela Brown have been performing together as ThePoetry Chicks since 2006. They are based in Derry and are regular performers on the British and Irish poetry scenes, including appearances at Glastonbury, Electric Picnic, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival and Flatlake Literary Festival.
DANCE
Stendhal are delighted to announce that the fantastic Echo Echo dance company will be adding their name to the dance organisations that will be taking part at the festival. Along with others such as Flemenco NI and the Heraghty School of Irish dancing, Echo Echo will be on site to showcase some sensational local dance talent.
ART AND SCULPTURE
Our Art Gallery will be showcasing the very best of local artistic talent, encompassing various genres and themes. Artists on site include; Grazia Longo, Jude McVitty, Elaine Taylor, Emmily Hill, Joshua Marx, Claire O’Connor, Brian Kielt, Thomas J Byrne, Amanda Shirlow, Cliodna Timmony, Steven Feeney , Martina O’Connor and Jade Shields.
DRAMA
Adding a bit of theatrics to the proceedings at Stendhal, Limavady Drama Club will be performing ‘Heavens waiting room’, a one act comedy play penned by Gary Diamond.
KIDS AREA
Stendhal will have plenty to offer for kids at the event. On site there will be amusements including a bouncy castle, a mini-railway, inflatable slides and more. There will be a nominal fee for these.
The Wheelworks Art Cart will be stopping by with it’s sensational digital music workshop which will allow children of 8 years and above to produce and perform their own original compositions.
Over the moon NI will be providing face painting, a treasure hunt, balloon tying and patchwork quilt embroidery.
There will also be other workshops for children including circus skills such as juggling, Diablo and Poi.
FOOD AND DRINK
Providing top class food and drink at the event will be several local business and some from further afield. On site you will be able to choose from a variety of eateries including Buddha, Mullans Organic food, Docs Diner, Love Paella, Candyfloss Co. and more.
There will be three bars on site selling drinks at a fair price, this includes a wine bar for those with a more sophisticated palate.
CRAFT
Stendhals craft market will provide a variety of skilfully hand crafted knick-knacks which will delight and excite. On site our craftsmen and women will be selling such items as Jewellery, Pottery, Hand made sock monkeys, Girclee art prints, fair trade clothing and more.
Limavady printing company will also be on site to provide materials for any budding artist who want to paint onsite.
ORGANISERS FAQ’S
Q: Can we buy tickets at the gate on the day?
A: A small amount of tickets will be available on the day, we have a limited capacity so we suggest to avoid disappointment people buy their tickets before the event. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.ie and all Ticketmaster outlets, the final post day for tickets online has passed so anyone buying online through the week can pick their tickets up at the box office on the day.
Q: If I have purchased a camping ticket when do I come to camp?
A: For all our campers we are allowing tent pitching on the Friday and the Saturday if you don’t fancy two nights of the great outdoors. On Friday the gates open from 6pm and will close at 10pm, while on Saturday the gates for general admission open at 9am.
Q: Can you bring your own alcohol?
A: Campers can bring their own alcohol however no glass bottles will be allowed on site. Bag searches will be taking place at the entrance gate to ensure this is adhered to.
Patrons on day tickets are cannot bring their own alcohol on site, as we have several bars to provide plenty of drink for day patrons.
Q: Andy Irvine is playing on the Friday night, I wanted to see him but I bought a day ticket, is there any way I can use this to come on the Friday?
A: Andy Irvine is playing a special acoustic set on Friday night at 9pm, if you have purchased a Day ticket and wish to come along to see him that is no problem, just arrive on site on Friday and we will take care of it.
Q: How does the ‘Stendhal Forever’ ticket scheme work?
A: On the day we will be taking the details of all our patrons who have purchased tickets at the entrance gates. These names will be added to our database and kept for future years. The ‘Stendhal Forever’ scheme does not apply to tickets won in competitions or obtained through ‘Test drive the Arts’. If you have purchased a ticket but for some reason cannot attend just email us your name, details and ticket number and we’ll get you in our database.
Q: Is there a shuttle bus from the town?
A: Not this year, but for people that don’t drive the taxis in the town know where they are going, There is also a drop off point in the car park for those who are getting a lift out with others.
Stendhal 2011 Line-Up
Main Stage
Karma Valley Stage
1100-1130
Chase Atlantis
1115-1145
Sons of Encouragement
1150-1220
We Are Burkes Lounge
1200-1240
Queen Elvis
1240-1310
Tommy Shots
1300-1330
Limavady Drama Club – Heaven’s Waiting Room
1340-1430
Limavady Big Band
1400-1440
Joanna Higgins
1440-1450
Irish Dancing
1500-1540
Down and Out Bluegrass Band
1510-1600
Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland (String Section)
Keith Jack,runner-up in the smash-hit BBC series Any Dream Will Do takes centre stage in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoatat the Grand Opera Housefrom Tuesday 6 – Sunday 18 September.
Bill Kenwright’s ‘Amazing’, ‘Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Brilliant’ production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical continues to enjoy huge success across the country with standing ovations after every performance.
Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and One More Angel.
Keith Jack, who finished just a hair’s breadth behind winner Lee Mead in hit BBC series Any Dream Will Do, takes on the title role, having won the hearts of the nation with his sparkling charisma and sensational singing voice.
Watched by millions of viewers every Saturday night, Keith was chosen from tens of thousands of hopefuls, captivating audiences week after week with his boyish charm and scintillating performances.
Bill Kenwright, one of the most successful producers in British theatre, was on the expert panel of judges alongside Andrew Lloyd Webber, Denise Van Outen and John Barrowman, and is delighted to see Keith take on the title role in Joseph.
Since Any Dream Will Do,Keith has made numerous stage and television appearances including performing for the Queen. Keith launched his debut album This Time in 2008 and his hotly anticipated follow up An Evening at the Musicals enjoyed critical acclaim in 2009.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, starring Keith Jack, bursts onto the stage at the Grand Opera House from Tuesday 6 – Sunday 18 September.
Tickets are priced £13.00-£34.25, and are available from Box Office in the theatre foyer, online at www.goh.co.uk or by calling 028 9024 1919. Book your tickets now and be part of the magic!
The creative industry in Belfast is to benefit from the council’s latest targeted business development initiatives.
Animation expert and Belfast Business Awards 2011 guest speaker Greg Maguire is among the inspiring speakers at the Creative Entrepreneurs Club (CEC) which is funded by Belfast City Council and will bring together those who work in the Film, Television, Digital Media, Music and Design sectors to network, pitch new ideas and showcase their work. Eight networking events are taking place from this August until December covering industry-related issues such as intellectual property, the future for visual effects, what is good design and how to succeed in the music business. The council is also launching a new pilot programme -Digital Media Connections – aimed at the creative industry in Belfast to develop new forms of creative intellectual property (IPs) and help turn these ideas into prototypes and market-ready products.
The ‘Creative Entrepreneurs Club’ (CEC) which is funded by the council will bring together those who work in the Film, Television, Digital Media, Music and Design sectors to network, pitch new ideas, listen to inspiring speakers as well as showcase their work.
While the council is also launching a new pilot programme –Digital Media Connections – aimed at the creative industry in Belfast to develop new forms of creative intellectual property (IPs) and help turn these ideas into prototypes and market-ready products.
Eight networking events will take place from this August until December, as part of the Creative Entrepreneurs Club, covering industry-related issues such as intellectual property, the future for visual effects, what is good design and how to succeed in the music business.
The first CEC event will take place next Thursday (25 August). Called ‘Reimagining: Changing Apathy to Empathy’, designers’ Mike Fleming and Tim Farrell will look at the significance of branding in business and the importance of winning both hearts and minds to succeed in business.
The music industry is the focus of another networking event on Wednesday 7 September. ‘On the Road Again’, will be hosted by singer/songwriter Ben Glover and broadcaster Ralph McClean and will examine how an independent artist can succeed in the music industry by creating their own music while also managing their own label.
The importance of protecting or developing an Intellectual Property (IP) in the creative and digital media sector is the subject of a further CEC event on Wednesday 21 September which will be led by IP lawyers Scott Kennedy and Gillian Shaw from Cleaver Fulton Rankin.
Animation expert and Belfast Business Awards 2011 guest speaker, Greg Maguire, will also host a CEC event on Wednesday 5 October looking at the opportunities for an animation and visual effects industry in the city. Greg has worked in the animation industry for over 20 years and has been instrumental in the launch and development of numerous heavyhitters of animation including Walt Disney and Lucasfilm Animation.
While Colin Williams, founder of television production company Sixteen South and maker of CBeebies show Sesame Tree is guest speaker at a CEC event on 26 October looking at how a small creative company from Belfast can compete in the global television market
All of the Creative Entrepreneurs Club events will take place in the Porcelain Suite in Ten Square Hotel (5.30pm-7pm) and are free of charge. However places are limited and registration is essential.
The Digital Media Connections Programme will support 10 small businesses working in the creative industry in Belfast who will benefit from key advice on the development of a Business Plan and mentoring on marketing, financial planning, investment and intellectual property rights.
The closing date for applications for this programme is 2 September.
Alderman Christopher Stalford, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Development Committee, said: “The council recognises that the creative industry in Belfast is a high growth sector and contributor to wealth in the local economy.
“Initiatives like the Creative Entrepreneurs Club and the Digital Media Connections Programme will also provide a unique platform for local companies to develop partnerships, assist with product development as well as provide access to new business opportunities.”
The Creative Entrepreneurs Club and Digital Media Connections Programme are funded by Belfast City Council and the European Regional Development Fund through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Competitiveness Programme.
For further information on all both business development initiatives, contact Belfast City Council’s Economic Development Unit on 028 9027 0453 or email mccgoranb@belfastcity.gov.uk
You may have noticed something in the air this summer? It’s maybe not what you expected, however many are beginning to find it highly addictive. It’s the vibe and sounds of FUNK! When FUNK music hits you, the foot starts tapping, the head starts to swing and the body starts moving and FUNK takes over. The reason FUNK is sweeping the nation is down to the Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre Company, who have launched a new show which has been described as the “most captivating, brilliant, fun and downright funky shows ever attempted in Northern Ireland!”
As the tour goes out across the country the dance group, made up of 6 international dancers and one of Ireland’s up and coming DJ’s, the question is being asked everywhere, which town has the most FUNK? After the show, the DJ takes over and the audience takes control, dancing to some of the most iconic sounds of FUNK ever recorded. From the original Godfather of FUNK, James Brown, George Clinton and Bootsy Collins with “Party on Plastic”, the one and only Stevie Wonder with the magical “Superstition” and finally to breathtaking Gloria Walker with “You Hit the Spot”, FUNK is spreading across Northern Ireland at a dramatic rate, with Newry, Derry, Armagh, Antrim and Belfast set to be affected with this wonderful vibe.
This week the tour takes in Newry Town Hall (Thurs 18th August), the Bunker at Armagh City Hotel (Fri 19th August), Antrim’s Old Court House (August 20th) and the L’Derry Waterside Theatre (August 21st). The show will not only be unique for what’s on stage, but also the stage itself, as the tour takes in some of Northern Ireland’s most usual venues available, including the Belfast Harbours Commissioners Office! Tickets have just gone on sale and are priced at only £6/£4(con) and can be purchased online at www.dylanquinndance.org/ or via the ticket hotline on 028 6632 8686.
Dylan Quinn, founder and performer with the Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre stated “So far we have performed to great audiences in Enniskillen and Portadown, which have really enjoy not just the music and performance, but also the interaction, making every show totally different and fun for all involved “We have a superb cast of international dancers who have been locked in rehearsals for the last few months preparing a show that even the FUNK godfather himself would be proud off. We promise a captivating night of the very best in FUNK dance, blended with wonderful venues and an enthralling soundtrack played by one of Northern Ireland’s most up and coming DJ’s.”
“Under the guidance of Dylan Quinn, one of Northern Ireland’s leading dance practitioners, FUNK! promises to be a highly engaging performance that will showcase some of the very best local and international dancers working in this genre “ commented Gilly Campbell, Dance and Drama Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland. “The Arts Council is pleased to support FUNK as it tours venues across Northern Ireland.”
“If you want to come along in your full FUNK gear, please don’t be afraid to dress up and dance or simply sit back and enjoy the show! After the performance the DJ will play on, drinks will be available at various venues and you can go back to those heady days of the 60’s when FUNK ruled and we will finally decide which town offers the most FUNK!” concluded Dylan Quinn. For ticket, group discounts and tour date information call 028 6632 8686.
The Belgian Air Force is set to display its amazing F16 fighter jet in Ireland for the first time and the ever expanding Portrush airshow. Organiser Coleraine Borough Council has confirmed the last minute inclusion to the free event on 3rd and 4th September which is sponsored by the Causeway SPAR Retail Group and Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
The Belgian F16 display is one of the biggest talking points on the European aviation display circuit and recently won Best Display at the huge RAF Waddington Airshow. The F16 is a very fast, nimble jet and is set to amaze the huge crowds at Portrush. The addition of an international air force to the already impressive roster of displays takes the NI International Airshow to a new level with other displays from the Vulcan bomber, The Red Arrows, two Tornado jets, a Catalina, helicopters and another 20 acts.
Mayor of Coleraine, Alderman Maurice Bradley, said, “It’s a great testament to the hard work our team and our sponsors, that we will be able to welcome members from the Belgian Air Force as they accepted our invitation to appear in Portrush. I understand they had a choice between 3 locations during the first weekend in September and I am delighted to announce that they have chosen to come to Northern Ireland”
Wesley Wilkinson, Chairman of the Causeway SPAR Retail Group adds, “This is a great addition to an already jammed packed series of attractions taking place throughout the two day event. I have no doubt it will be amazing to watch and a spectacle not to be missed.”
For more details on the air displays, ground shows and exhibition sites click www.niinternationalairshow.co.uk or call 028 7034 7234
After this unique dance show in one of Belfast most iconic buildings, the DJ will take over and the audience takes control, dancing the night away to some of the most iconic sounds of FUNK ever recorded. From the original Godfather of FUNK, James Brown, George Clinton and Bootsy Collins with “Party on Plastic”, the one and only Stevie Wonder with the magical “Superstition” and finally to breathtaking Gloria Walker with “You Hit the Spot”, FUNK is certainly going to hit the right spot in Belfast!
