Happy New Year from everyone at www.whatsonni.com! Here are Jacqueline’s pick of New Year events taking place this weekend across the North.

Down

The Kinder Transport Project and Magills’ Farm is a professional exhibition supported by the office of First and Deputy First minister on the history of Kinder transport project during the 2nd World War. It tells the story of how many thousands of refugees were displaced out of Europe. It also explains how Magill’s’ farm in Millisle was a ’Faraway Home’ for over 300 refugees. Stunning and emotional audio visual stories presented from the 1st January to 28th February at the Boy’s Brigade Heritage Museum Millisle.

Tyrone

A native of the southern state of Louisiana in the United States of America, country singer Robert Mizzell has made Ireland his home for the past seventeen years. With his five piece band, The Country Kings, he has risen to become the premier country music act in Ireland. Robert Mizzell will be at the intimate Alley Theatre for one night only on Thursday 3rd January and will be joined by special guest Lisa McHugh. Expect a wonderful night of superb country music. Early booking recommended.

Fermanagh

Learn how to cook for that perfect dinner party on Saturday 5th January with the Belle Isle Cookery School Lisbellaw.  Whether you are cooking for 2,8 or 12, this course will share all the plan-ahead secrets for a truly memorable dinner party. You will use seasonal ingredients to create delicious starters, main courses and desserts to impress your guests, without any of the stress.

Derry

A magic mirror, a jealous queen, a poisoned apple and the tiniest friends ever imagined – it’s panto time again at the Forum!  Telling the story of the young princess who finds herself on the run from her wicked stepmother and takes refuge in the forest with seven pint-sized men, SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS remains one of the best-love pantomimes of all time.  Packed with great song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenes and magical special effects, this festive favourite is fun for all the family from 4-94!  Featuring William Caulfield and a star studded local and Northern Irish cast with a special ‘magical’ appearance by Daniel O’Donnell, this energetic Christmas treat is sure to be a hit with audiences far and wide. Performances run until 5th January.

Armagh

To coincide with the exploration of sub-glacial Lake Ellsworth in Antarctica this winter Millennium Court Arts Centre presents Crystalline, an exhibition of work by both internationally known artists and local practising artists, graduates & postgraduates living or working throughout Northern Ireland. The exhibition incorporates pieces submitted through Open Submission and by invitation. The work explores the twin themes of scientific endeavour and the landscape of Antarctica. Working in various disciplines the artists represented in Crystalline cover many facets of Antarctic exploration, teasing out aspects of the barren terrain of the surface (seemingly devoid of colour, sound and life) and the inverted landscape of the sub-glacial underworld. Continues until 26th January.

Antrim

After last year’s triumphant return, the Lambeg Players go traditional once more at the Island Hall Lisburn with the evergreen Aladdin, this time by author Bruce Gardiner.  The production is directed by well-known local man Simon Cunningham and will feature the usual Lambeg ingredients, so a great fun night for all the family. Runs from Wednesday 2nd January to Saturday 5th January.