The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is gearing up for another packed week of events, kicking off on Wednesday 28 September with ‘Two Sore Legs’.

Set in 1950’s/60’s Belfast, the play tells the true story of the playwright’s mother Bridget, a young Butlin’s Redcoat, who had six children by a married man. The play explores the scandal, the pain, the joy and the fall-out from this extraordinary family arrangement and what it meant for Brenda, her siblings and, of course, her mother. Following sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Festival, ‘Two Sore Legs’ arrives at The Market Place with a clutch of outstanding reviews and a performance by Maria Connolly that will leave you breathless. Tickets are priced £15 and £13 (concession).

Following the success of Tim McGarry’s ‘Irish History Lesson’, he returns on Thursday 29 September with a brand new stand-up show about our history – ‘1916 Tim McGarry ‘Goes Over the Top’. This time Tim will concentrate on the history bits that we think matter the most. And because of the year that’s in, it can only be the 1916 Easter Rising and The Battle Of The Somme. In 2016 we have be inundated with worthy and serious dramas and documentaries about the meaning of 1916. Tim though wants to give you jokes. What are the funny myths and facts about 1916? Why do we take our history so seriously? Expect myths to be exploded and sacred cows to be slaughtered but above all expect laughs. Please note that this show contains strong language and strong opinions and anyone under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are priced £18 and £16 (concession).

On Friday 30 September, witness Ireland’s greatest tribute to the world’s most famous super group – Abba. With rave reviews and acclaim, ‘The Björn Identity’ exceed all expectations of an Abba tribute, from their stunning replica costumes, visual likeness and choreography, to a perfect copy of Benny’s famous white Yamaha piano. This show features ABBA’s greatest hits from ‘Waterloo’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Super Trooper’ and ‘Gimme, Gimme, Gimme’! Widely known for their love of audience participation, their Swedish humour, their professionalism and commitment to the music of their tribute idols. Tickets are priced £16.

Blues guitar legend Ronnie Greer has been at the centre of the blues scene in Ireland for over forty years now, having shared the stage with some of the greatest names in blues. He returns to The Market Place on Saturday 1 October with his distinctive guitar style, melding hard edged Chicago blues with bebop jazz inflected lines. His album release,’ A Lifetime With The Blues’, has also been hailed as one of the finest ever blues albums to come out of these shores. Ronnie brings his powerhouse band. Brilliant singer | guitarist Anthony Toner, keyboard wizard John McCullough, and the peerless rhythm section of bass player Alan Hunter, and drummer Colm Fitzpatrick, operate on a level with Ronnie which has to be heard to be appreciated. Tickets are £13.

Tickets for all performances can be booked through the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

With less than a month until Belfast’s coolest new hotel, Bullitt opens its doors, bargain-loving style seekers are being given the chance to nab an overnight stay for just £1.

Bullitt’s ‘Kip for a Quid’ competition kicks off today (September 19^th) and runs until 26^th September. To mark the official opening on Friday 15^th October, 15 rooms are up for grabs for the princely sum of £1.

To enter, simply head to www.bullitthotel.com and enter your email address to be put into the draw. Winners will be drawn at random and guests will be able to book a date of their choice (subject to availability).

For those that aren’t lucky enough to secure one of the £1 rooms, the Bullitt Facebook Page (facebook.com/bullittbelfast) will host a range of exciting pre-opening competitions, with a 10-day countdown beginning on 5^th October.

Bullitt Belfast is a vibrant new concept that will provide a cool new space for people to Work, Play and Stay in the heart of the city. It will feature 43 stylish bedrooms, three bars (including Baltic, NI’s first ski-themed bar), a courtyard garden, 58-seater restaurant ‘Taylor and Clay’, an Espresso bar and a versatile private events space.

Blurring the lines between work and play, this urban playground will be the perfect hangout spot, with a relaxed atmosphere and laid back sophisticated vibe.

Accommodation comes in three options with double rooms ranging from compact to spacious, and apartment accommodation planned for the second phase of the development.

For further information, visit www.bullittbelfast.com, check out the Bullitt Facebook page, facebook.com/bullittbelfast or follow Bullitt Belfast on Twitter @BullittBelfast

**Tickets on sale this Friday at 9am**

One of music’s true legends Sir Van Morrison returns to the Belfast Waterfront on Sunday 18^th December for one night only.

The multi award winning singer, composer and performer will be showcasing songs from his brand new studio album Keep Me Singing, as well as dipping into some of his greatest and best known hits from undoubtedly one of the most revered back catalogues in music history.

Keep Me Singing is Van Morrison’s 36^th studio album to date and consists of 13 tracks – 12 original songs written and performed by Morrison, as well as a cover of the blues standard Share Your Love With Me – written by Alfred Baggs and Don Robey and previously recorded by artists such as Aretha Franklin and Kenny Rogers. For the track Every Time I See A River, Morrison has collaborated with acclaimed lyricist Don Black.

Don’t miss this very special performance by one of music’s most inspirational artists, in the very intimate surroundings of the beautiful Belfast Waterfront.

Tickets go on-sale THIS Friday, 23^rd September at 9am:

Tickets for the Belfast Waterfront are available:

In person at the Ulster Hall Box Office

By Telephone: 028 9033 4455
Book On Line: www.waterfront.co.uk

In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour): Northern Ireland – 0844 277 44 55
Book On Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

Friday 16 – Thursday 22 September

Friday 16 September, Holywood Culture Night

Holywood Town Centre

Free event

A night of entertainment for all the family. Enjoy live Art, Music and Rock, to Dancing, Drum Circles and more. 3pm-9pm.

Info: holywoodculturenight.com

Saturday 17 September, Classic Motocross Des Nations

Ballyblack, Newtownards

Spectators £5

Classic Motocross Des Nations comes to Ballyblack, Newtownards with competitors from far and wide.

Info: Niclassicscramblesclub.com

Sunday 18 – Sunday 25 September, Aspects Irish Literature Festival

Bangor, various locations

A quarter of a century has passed since the first Aspects Festival took place and its spirit remains ‘a celebration of Irish Writing’. The festival returns this year still celebrating, nurturing and exploring the extraordinary literary talent found locally and throughout the island.

For info and to book visit aspectsfestival.com or call (028) 9127 1200

Thursday 22 September, Flush Hall Murder Mystery Tour

Newtownards

Tickets £6, Children £4

In a murder mystery tour with a difference, Valhalla Street Theatre will lead you on an investigation of the true story of young Willie Quinn who was brutally murdered in the grounds of Flush Hall.  7.30pm – 9pm.

Info and booking: (028) 9182 6846 | (028) 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Friday 23 – Thursday 29 September

Saturday 24 September, Bangor Aurora 10K

Entry from £16, free to spectate

Race starts from Castle Park at 11am and ends at Ward Park. To take part, runners must be aged 15 years or over on race day.

For more info and registration details, see visitardsandnorthdown.com

29 September – 1 October, Martin Donnelly Trophy

Adults £15, accompanied minors free

The final Kirkistown car race meeting of the year highlights Formula Ford with the Martin Donnelly Trophy taking centre stage.

Info: See visitardsandnorthdown.com or call (028) 4277 1325

Exhibitions

Exhibition: Ebb and Flow

Friday 2 September –  Saturday 1 October

Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards

An exhibition by North Armagh Arts Collective.

Info: (028) 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

Exhibition: The Irene Sendler Window

Friday 2 September –  Saturday 1 October

Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards

David Esler worked with a group of ex service personnel, nurses and older people who experienced the conflict in N Ireland to create the Irene Sendler Window.

Info: (028) 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

Exhibition: NI’s Landscape and Wildlife Photography

Thursday 1 – Wednesday 28 September

The Loft Gallery, Portaferry VIC, BT 22 1NZ

Photographer Donny Moore presents a collection of captivating images of NI’s wildlife and landscape in this free to visit exhibition.

Info: (028) 4272 9882, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for an ideal short break and Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

• Sensational September, Manor House Country Hotel, Co. Fermanagh, from £74.50pps. Located in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands, the award-winning 4-star Manor House Country Hotel combines old world charm with modern hotel luxury. This limited offer is for a one-night break with three-course evening dinner in the Belleek Restaurant and a full Irish breakfast the following morning. Offer valid Sunday – Thursday, subject to availability until September 30. To book call (028) 6862 2200.

• Fruits of the Lough – Fish and Flora, The Cuan, Co. Down, from £69pps. Nestled in the centre of Strangford on the shores at Strangford Lough, close to beaches and Castle Ward, The Cuan is a four-star family owned and run establishment. Enjoy an overnight stay and celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink on a Fish Night at The Cuan. The chef’s selection of Marty Johnston’s finest fish will be on offer with the most natural of accompaniments – sea vegetables. Available September 24. To book call (028) 44 881222.

• Stay and Play, The Glenavon Hotel, Co. Tyrone, from £82.50pps. Overlooking the Ballinderry River and set in nine acres of its own mature grounds, this luxurious hotel offers high standard facilities to guests. Enjoy a fabulous four-course dinner, bed, breakfast and a round of golf in either Killymoon Golf Club, Cookstown Golf Club or Dungannon Golf Club before unwinding in the three-star hotel’s luxurious leisure facilities. Golf must be booked prior to your stay at the hotel. Available until September 30. To book call (028) 86 764949.

For further information log on to www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

*All offers are subject to availability.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland this week (September 19 – September 25).

• Fermanagh Restaurant Week, Various locations, Co. Fermanagh, until September 25. Don’t miss Fermanagh’s first ever restaurant week! Join in the celebrations and discover all that Fermanagh has to offer, from locally sourced produce and delicacies to wonderful restaurants and eateries. Highlights include pop-up restaurants at visitor attractions and craft beer events.

• Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, Killyleagh Castle, Co. Down, September 24 – 25. Do you love chocolate? Thousands of chocoholics and enthusiastic foodies from Northern Ireland and beyond are set to descend on this chocolatey event.  This year’s festival will be the largest one yet, with over 15 chocolatiers and nearly 40 local artisan food producers featured.

• Festival Lough Erne, Enniskillen Castle Museum, Co. Fermanagh, September 24 – 25. Celebrate the NI Year of Food and Drink at the recently refurbished Enniskillen Castle as Festival Lough Erne honours the food and waterways of Fermanagh. Highlights of the festival include an artisan food market, face painters and family street entertainment.

• Hedge Fun, Minnowburn, Co. Down, September 24. Bring the family for a foraging morning on the outskirts of the city led by a member of the Belfast ranger team. Bring a basket or plastic container to gather some delicious autumn fruits.

• What We’re Made Of, Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast, until September 23. Tinderbox Theatre Company present three, new one-act plays that question who we think we are, challenge what we think we know and celebrate what it means to be alive. Three performances in one evening featuring an incredible ensemble of players; What We’re Made Of promises to be visceral, powerful and unforgettable theatre. Booking essential.  To book call (028) 90 242338.

• Culture Tech, Various locations, Derry~Londonderry, until September 20. Join the biggest technology and creative industries event in Northern Ireland. A week-long festival of tech, media, music and games for the whole family. The programme is designed to engage and inspire; reaching out to communities that most tech events never meet and creating a unique urban festival event with an inclusive and family-friendly vibe.

• Ballynahinch Harvest and Country Living Festival, Montalto Estate, Co. Down, September 24 – 25. Northern Ireland’s rich rural traditions and scenic autumn splendours will be cause for celebration at the festival. Highlights of the festival include a magnificent re-enactment of the famous Battle of Ballynahinch and country-themed events reminiscent of traditional Harvest, Pig and Potato Fairs.

• Magical Music Moments, The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Co. Armagh, September 23. This tantalising tribute to musical theatre will have you up on your feet dancing and singing along. With tunes from musicals such as ‘Wicked’, ‘Hairspray’, ‘Legally Blonde’, ‘The Sound Of Music’, ‘Phantom Of The Opera’ and many more, there will be something for everyone to enjoy as the evening showcases some of musical theatres timeless classics.

• The Bjorn Identity, Alley Theatre Arts & Culture Centre, Co. Tyrone, September 24. Audiences of all ages can discover and re-live the magic of the Swedish group, Abba. With stunning handmade replica costumes, this show has all the glitz of the 70’s era and is the best party night out in a theatre you will remember! Booking essential. To book call (028) 71 384444.

• Peppa Pig’s Surprise, Grand Opera House, Belfast, September 23 – 25. Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a brand new live stage show. Kids will experience fun, loads of songs and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show. Booking essential. To book call (028) 241919.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.

As part of the Cultural programme of the Northern Ireland Centenary Commemorations, Solar Theatre Productions presents The Prodger at The Old Courthouse Theatre, on Friday 30 September at 7.30pm

The Irish veterans of WW1 were a forgotten generation. However the veterans didn’t forget the war, nor did others let them forget who they fought for. For some it never went away…

Set in a pub on a wild winter’s night in Lismore Co. Waterford in 1964, this powerful one-act play is a poignant re-imagining of one such veteran – the writer’s Great-Uncle Johnny, who lost a leg in battle, woke up in a morgue and faced unequivocal prejudice when he returned home.

Decades later, the devastation of war still lingers and Johnny’s story still lies buried.  As rumours of a local murder unfold and old wounds and secrets are exposed, he can no longer hold back and finally roars his tale.

Tickets for this powerful drama are available from Box Office on 028 9442 8331 or online at www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/boxoffice

Aspects has a long tradition of embracing writing in all its forms. For 2016, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s 25^th Anniversary Aspects Festival continues to celebrate every aspect of Irish writing with bestselling authors, comedy, crime, song-writing, poetry, sport, family events, resources for aspiring writers, and a Festival Yurt, all happening in Bangor (18-25 September).

A standout highlight of this year’s programme is ‘Lit Up Inside’ with Van Morrison, who will be performing and talking about his song writing and poetry – with some very special invited guests!

Aspects 2016 is getting ready to welcome a glittering list of literary luminaries including Paul Muldoon, Glenn Patterson, Sinéad Moriarty, Gerald Dawe, Tara West, Owen O’Neill and many more.

The festival has seen the stratospheric rise of many local wordsmiths over its 25 year history, and this year offers you, no less than any other, the chance to hear new voices in Irish writing as they make their way in the literary world.

This year also brings a first for the Aspects Festival, as it sees the launch of ‘The Bangor Book’. Bangor has a long tradition of writing, and this special publication charts and showcases this rich history – from the ancient to some of the highest profile contemporary poets and authors.

To nurture reading and creativity, there will be workshops that emerging writers won’t want to miss, and family events to engage both young and old.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Deborah Girvan said, “In this silver anniversary year, Ards and North Down Borough Council are looking forward to welcoming everyone to join us in this celebration of the wealth of writing talent in the Borough and beyond. We hope readers and aspiring authors of all ages will be inspired by the programme.”

The core of the festival takes place from the 18-25 September. Bangor Castle Walled Garden will host our Festival Yurt, a unique and atmospheric venue for Aspects’ weekend events. For further details and to book see aspectsfestival.com.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council launched the new tourism brand ‘It’s in our Nature’ at Belfast International Airport today.

The brand has been designed to support the first class tourism available. We live in a beautiful Borough, awash with attractions, history and places to visit for everyone and of course, with hospitality second to none.

As part of this new brand, a bumper visitor guide has been produced providing up-to-date information on the Borough’s expanding list of attractions from Belfast Lough to Lough Neagh and a wide range of activities including fishing, cycling and horse riding.

Speaking at the launch today the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott said: “We would like to encourage the local tourism industry to make full use of our new brand in their own marketing campaigns to help tourists recognise the excellent experience that the whole Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey has to offer.  Our Borough is unique as it is bounded by Belfast Lough to the south, Lough Neagh to the North and has many rivers including the Six Mile Water, all of which offer beautiful scenery and a wonderful leisure resource.”

If you are arriving home from holiday or a business trip through international arrivals, keep an eye out for our new artwork at the airport promoting the diverse and unique tourism experiences we have to offer.  Attracting almost 4.5 million visitors annually, the airport is a gateway to our Borough and offers a unique opportunity to entice visitors to explore the fantastic nearby attractions and activities we offer.

For more information or to view the new visitor guide visit

www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/tourism