The MAC, Belfast’s brand new arts venue, today (Fri 3rd Feb) launched its opening programme at an event hosted by broadcaster and journalist Mariella Frostrup. The launch included a series of panel discussions about the MAC’s first ever programme and about the arts sector in Northern Ireland. First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness also spoke at the event and welcomed the opening of the MAC later this year. The invited guests heard messages of support from some of Northern Ireland’s most famous arts exports, including award-winning children’s author Oliver Jeffers, actress Geraldine Hughes and actor Ciaran Hinds.
The MAC supporter actress Meryl Streep added “I’m so disappointed to be unable to celebrate with you today back in the beautiful Harbour Commissioner’s Office in Belfast. When we all stood there last, back in 2007, the MAC was a wonderful dream, and now that dream has finally become a wonderful reality. The MAC really is an amazing gift for the people of Northern Ireland.
“I’ve seen amazing photographs, and the colossal MAC building itself looks absolutely stunning – it really is an architectural gem to have in the heart of your city. But of course the MAC is more than a building, it’s about the art, and the magic that happens inside. And I’ve had a sneak peek at the opening programme of events – it is a truly inspiring and breathtaking line-up. It’s especially exciting to see so much new theatre and dance and visual art being created in these challenging times.
“I strongly believe that the arts help us to live fuller lives, and the MAC is an invaluable new home for the arts in Northern Ireland.”
Located in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, the MAC is due to open on 20 April 2012. When it opens, the MAC as Northern Ireland’s newest arts venue will provide local and international art, theatre, dance and music along with bars and restaurants, all under one roof.
At the launch, host Mariella Frostrup said: “The MAC is a truly wonderful addition to the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland. The programme launched today is worthy of any international venue and I am thrilled to be a part of the celebrations. I look forward to returning in the very near future to visit the MAC when it opens in April.”
Anne McReynolds, Chief Executive of the MAC said, “We are absolutely delighted today to unveil our hotly anticipated programme for the MAC. We are counting down the days to our official opening in April and today’s a major milestone in our journey. We have all worked extremely hard to create a programme which will appeal to audiences of all ages and interests from the international art to the kids’ workshops. We can’t wait to start welcoming locals and visitors to the MAC giving them something new in the heart of the city.
“This project has been ten years in the making and with the launch of the superb opening programme, the opening of our ‘pop-up’ ticket shop on Rosemary Street, the progress with the building and the new website all launching today it makes the project very real. We are confident that that the MAC will add another layer to the cultural offer in Belfast and Northern Ireland and help put this region on the worldwide stage.”
Gillian Mitchell, Director of Programmes at the MAC, who curated the programme said: “We are very proud and excited to be opening with our own show – Titanic (Scenes from the British Wreck Commissioner’s Inquiry, 1912). This brand new MAC production written by Owen McCafferty is a riveting courtroom drama which seeks the truth behind the tragedy, uncovering the human stories of the ship’s survivors in their own words. It will be the very first show in the MAC’s 350 seat theatre, opening 22 April.”
She continued: “We are extremely dedicated to promoting and supporting the work of local theatre companies and emerging artists from Northern Ireland, alongside bringing international work to the MAC. In our galleries we are exhibiting L.S. Lowry alongside local artist William Conor, a huge installation by LA-based artist Robert Therrien, on tour from the Tate, and a video installation by Belfast-based artist Nicholas Keogh.”
Also on offer is Sweet Charity, the musical sensation of the year. The MAC has teamed up with popular Belfast-based Bruiser Theatre Company to bring this Broadway smash-hit to life. Featuring hits such as Hey, Big Spender and The Rhythm of Life, this feel-good show runs from 29 May to 17 June.
With support from local Government (DCAL, DSD and Belfast City Council), Arts Council of Northern Ireland and NITB, the MAC is a prime example of how devolved Government is working for our people and our place. Celebrating the best of home grown talent, showcasing international work and nurturing new, emerging artists in a world class facility, the MAC is set to become an iconic landmark in Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “This high quality venue, supported by an investment of £5.25million of Arts Council funding, will add to the Belfast arts infrastructure. In the busy year for arts and culture ahead of us, it will also provide our talented local artists with yet more job opportunities and make a significant contribution to the city’s economy.”
The MAC will open its doors to the public on 20th April and will be open seven days a week until late, including from 10am on Sundays. Tickets for all events are on sale now from www.themaclive.com or from the MAC’s pop up shop at 33 Rosemary Street in Belfast.