A first for Northern Ireland will be unveiled at Invasion N.I. this weekend when an interactive Star Wars Snowspeeder, something that could be mistaken from “The Empire Strikes Back” will be the centre of attention.

Nearly two months in construction, countless man hours have been accumulated to ensure the Speeder will be ready for the thousands of Star Wars families descending on Eikon Exhibition Centre.

The Emerald Garrison and Eikon will be bringing Star Wars to life in a way that amuses, entertains and educates at this award-winning family show.

The show features life-sized replica props, sets and characters from the new and original Star Wars trilogies, meet and greets with special guest actors including Admiral Piett (Kenneth Colley), Logray the Ewok (Mike Edmonds) and KLAATU (John Simpson), not to mention ‘Force Training’ for kids, it’s an event not to be missed.

The unofficial fan event is being run in aid of Make-A-Wish UK and has proven to be so popular 500 extra advance discounted tickets had to be released earlier this week.

The hugely popular Heroes & Legends Exhibition will complement Invasion over the two days with a selection of characters including Spiderman, Iron Man, Transformers, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park and much more.

Online advance family tickets are priced at £35 with a maximum of two adults aged 18+ per family.

Young Force Academy Trainees aged 3 and under can enter for free.

Tickets can be purchased from the Invasion N.I website, invasion.idamigo.com.

Clare Bowen, Chris Carmack, Charles Esten, Jonathan Jackson To Play United Kingdom and Ireland June 2017

Sam Palladio To Join Tour On Select Dates 

3Arena, Dublin: Monday 19^th June

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Tuesday 20^th June

 

Nashville – Stars of the Lionsgate produced and distributed, hit series, “Nashville” are set to play for audiences in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland during a second international tour in June.  Launching June 9 in Birmingham, England, the tour will feature cast members Clare Bowen, Chris Carmack, Charles Esten and Jonathan Jackson, plus Sam Palladio on select dates.  Tour stops will feature songs from the series as well as artists’ original material and are set to include: Brighton, Nottingham, Glasgow, Manchester, Dublin, Belfast, and two nights at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

All shows go on sale Friday, February 17. “Nashville” staged a sold-out tour in the UK and Ireland in 2016.

“Our first international tour proved how tremendously popular ‘Nashville’ and its cast are beyond the U.S.,” said Steve Buchanan, President, Opry Entertainment. “We look forward to more sell-out shows this summer featuring cast members who are not only amazing actors, performers, and songwriters, but who have also become incredible ambassadors for our home state of Tennessee.”

On sale Friday, February 17 at 9am

The SSE Arena, Belfast Box Office: Tel. 02890 739074
Book On Line: www.ssearenabelfast.com

Ticketmaster: In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour):   0844 277 44 55 (ROL: 0818 719300)
Book On Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

 

FULL TOUR DATES

6/9                    Birmingham         Barclaycard Arena

6/10                  London                 Royal Albert Hall

6/11                  London                 Royal Albert Hall

6/13                  Brighton               Brighton Dome

6/14                  Nottingham          Royal Concert Hall

6/16                 Glasgow               The SSE Hydro

6/17                 Manchester           Manchester Arena

6/19                  Dublin                   3 Arena

6/20                 Belfast                  SSE Arena

“Nashville” airs on six continents and in more than 100 territories, including the United Kingdom. In its fifth season in the U.S., the series has been a record-breaker for CMT, where episodes have become the network’s most-watched original series telecasts ever. Since its debut, the show has inspired multiple “Music of Nashville” soundtracks as well as a Christmas album, collectively selling more than a million soundtracks and millions more single tracks to date. Season 5 of “Nashville” airs in the U.S. Thursday nights at 9pm CT on CMT.

About “Nashville”

Now in its fifth season, the critically-acclaimed series “Nashville” is set against the backdrop of the city’s music scene and follows the personal and professional challenges as country music royalty including Rayna Jaymes, Juliette Barnes and Deacon Claybourne navigate their paths as artists and individuals. Surrounding them and often complicating their lives are their family, friends and, in some cases, lovers, as well as the up-and-coming performers and songwriters trying to get ahead in the business. Music City can mean so many things to different people. In “Nashville,” musicians and songwriters are at the heart of the storm driven by their own ambitions. Some are fueled by their creativity and passion for fame. Others struggle to cope with the pressures of success and doing everything in their power to stay on top.

“Nashville” stars Connie Britton as Rayna Jaymes, Hayden Panettiere as Juliette Barnes, Clare Bowen as Scarlett O’Connor, Chris Carmack as Will Lexington, Charles Esten as Deacon Claybourne, Jonathan Jackson as Avery Barkley, Sam Palladio as Gunnar Scott, Maisy Stella as Daphne Conrad and Lennon Stella as Maddie Conrad. “Nashville” is executive-produced by Marshall Herskovitz, Ed Zwick, Callie Khouri and Steve Buchanan. The series is produced by Lionsgate, ABC Studios, and Opry Entertainment.

About Opry Entertainment

Opry Entertainment_®, a division of Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE: RHP), is a producer of multi-media entertainment experiences with primary interests in location-based entertainment and television and stage production. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, its core business segments include the world-famous Grand Ole Opry_®, the historic Ryman Auditorium_®, and legendary radio station 650 AM-WSM.

About Lionsgate

Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) is a vertically integrated next generation global content leader with a diversified presence in motion picture production and distribution, television programming and syndication, premium pay television networks, home entertainment, global distribution and sales, interactive ventures and games and location-based entertainment.

With the acquisition of Starz, Lionsgate adds to its portfolio of businesses the flagship STARZ premium pay network serving 24.3 million subscribers and the STARZ ENCORE platform with 31 million subscribers. The combined company will operate five over-the-top (OTT) streaming services and the STARZ app delivering content directly to consumers.

The Company’s feature film business spans eight labels and includes the blockbuster Hunger Games franchise, the Now You See Me and John Wick series, the critically-acclaimed box office hit La La Land, which earned a record-tying 14 Academy Award® nominations, Hacksaw Ridge, Tyler Perry’s Boo! A Madea Halloween, CBS Films/Lionsgate’s Hell or High Water, Roadside Attractions’ Manchester by the Sea, Codeblack Films’ breakout concert film Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain and Pantelion Films’ Instructions Not Included, the highest-grossing Spanish-language film ever released in the U.S.

One of the largest independent television businesses in the world, Lionsgate’s slate of premium quality series encompasses nearly 90 shows on more than 40 different networks. These include the ground-breaking Orange is the New Black, the fan favorite Nashville, the syndication success The Wendy Williams Show, the hit drama The Royals, the acclaimed Casual, the breakout success Greenleaf and hit STARZ series including Outlander, Black Sails, Survivor’s Remorse and Power, the second highest-rated premium pay television series of 2016.

Lionsgate’s home entertainment business is an industry leader in box office-to-DVD and box office-to-VOD revenue conversion rates. Lionsgate handles a prestigious and prolific library of more than 16,000 motion picture and television titles that is an important source of recurring revenue and serves as a foundation for the growth of the Company’s core businesses. The Lionsgate, Summit Entertainment and Starz brands are synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the world. www.lionsgate.com

Belfast’s five-star Merchant Hotel has appointed a new dedicated Proposal Curator to take the stress out of popping the question.

 

Arlene Malone, owner of proposal planning website, www.Propose2Me.com has been working with The Merchant for over 12 months, following the launch of her novel business in late 2015.

Steady demand for the service has led to The Merchant appointing Arlene in a dedicated role.

Ideally timed to with one of the busiest seasons for proposals from Valentine’s Day on into spring, the news is sure to excite people that are planning to pop the question but aren’t sure how to go about it.

Co. Louth based businesswoman, Arlene Malone is now on a mission to dial up the romance in the city. The Merchant’s new proposal curator will help men and women from all over Ireland and abroad to make that one lifetime memory the perfect moment. All the proposer is left to do is utter those four little but very special words, “Will you marry me?”

Whilst there are plenty of wedding planners out there, Arlene is Ireland’s only marriage proposal planning company. Over the last 12 months, she has helped over 60 people pop the question, including almost 20 proposals at The Merchant Hotel.

Commenting on her appointment, Arlene Malone, Proposal Curator at Propose2Me says the site is already drawing lots of interest:

“In society today, there’s increasing pressure on people to get their proposal just right and people are increasingly time poor. Over the last 12 months, we’ve helped over 60 people to plan their perfect proposals and I’m delighted to be joining forces with The Merchant – it’s synonymous with luxury and romance and is the perfect place to plan an unforgettable proposal.

People have been travelling from far and wide for an engagement experience here and Belfast as a location has so much to offer to. We can plan a romantic picnic, a helicopter ride over the city; the possibilities are endless.”

In Northern Ireland Arlene’s exclusive hotel partner is The Merchant Hotel and Arlene has been busy  working with the hotel to develop a suite of perfect proposals – from a private dinner in the hotel’s rooftop garden to a private candlelit suite or champagne overlooking the city skyline, the options are endless.

“We have also enlisted the help of leading jewellers, Lunn’s and their brand Portfolio of Fine Diamonds, to ensure that the perfect diamond is presented at the perfect proposal, says Arlene.

 “We will work within a client’s budget – whatever that may be. Our service is totally bespoke and tailored to the particular desires of the spouse to ensure a highly personalised service.”

Proposal packages include The Rooftop Proposal, which includes private rooftop hire at The Merchant for two hours; The Ultimate Suite Proposal, which includes a sumptuous Victorian suite at The Merchant decorated to your specification; a Rolls Royce package, which includes a chauffeur driven ride in The Merchant’s Rolls; a Horse Drawn Carriage package or an eight-course tasting menu experience, either in The Merchant’s Great Room restaurant or as a private dining experience.

For further information, visit www.themerchanthotel.com/proposals or email proposals@themerchanthotel.com

The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is set to stage some superb sounds over the coming weeks with BRIT award-winning artist Eddi Reader and the internationally renowned Cremona Quartet.

 

Eddi Reader is set for The Market Place stage on Thursday 23 February. Having first hit the limelight in the 1980’s with the group ‘Fairground Attraction’ [who enjoyed huge chart success with their debut No.1 single ‘Perfect’ and album ‘First Of A Million Kisses’], Eddi went on to collaborate on many celebrated projects throughout the years, famously harmonizing with Annie Lennox while touring with ‘The Eurythmics’. However, it has been Eddi’s subsequent solo albums that have cemented her image as a powerful figure in British music.

With an MBE for outstanding contributions to the arts, three BRIT awards, a number one single and eight critically acclaimed solo albums, what sets Eddi apart is the depth and quality of the performance. Support act for the evening is Ultan Conlon. Tickets are priced £17.50.

Internationally renowned for their ‘lyrical sound’ [Strad], The Cremona Quartet will visit Armagh on Friday 24 February with a programme featuring works by Beethoven and Mozart. The Italian quartet’s list of accolades is vast. They have graced the stages of the world’s most prestigious venues and festivals and have won numerous international competitions [Vittorio Veneto Competition, Cremona International Competition, Web Concert Hall Competition]. The quartet has released several recordings on the Audite label to critical acclaim, with Gramophone Magazine describing them as ‘nothing less than life-affirming’.

The programme for the evening will include Puccini Crisantemi | Mozart String Quartet No. 16 in E flat major K 428 | Beethoven String Quartet Op.132. Tickets are priced £15 and £13 (concession).

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.

 

The amazing Celtic Mindfulness event is making a return to the Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh on the 25^th & 26^th February.  This is a unique healing experience of the land and energy. The perfect way to create inner calmness, helping steer you through the year ahead.

Music, Myth and Mediation will be used to awaken your Celtic soul. Creating focus positivity and stillness for the mind.  Workshops during the event will be facilitated by the excellent Sandra Nelson and Kate Fitzpatrick.

Kate Fitzpatrick is an experienced teacher and practitioner in the field of Celtic Wisdom & Spirituality and has guided many people in personal and spiritual development over the past 25 years.

Sandra Nelson is a qualified Reiki Teacher, Artist and Workshop facilitator who has been working within the healing arts for a number of years. Originally from a rural farming background, Moy, Co Tyrone, meditation has been a part of Sandra’s life for many years and is part of her daily practice.

The event will also include light lunch and refreshments.

Admission is £40.00 for a Saturday Pass, £20.00 of for a Sunday pass, or buy a ticket for both days for just £50.00.  Booking is essential on www.armagh.co.uk/celticmindfulness

For information please contact: Navan Centre, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh.  BT60 4LD.  Tel 028 3752 9644 or www.navan.com

 

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott, joined Alderman John Smyth, Councillor Jim Montgomery, Councillor Neil Kelly, Bernard Clarkson (Arts Services Manager) and Ursula Fay (Head of Arts & Culture) to officially launch Antrim Live.

Antrim Live is a brand new arts and cultural festival set for Antrim Town on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February.  There is a feast of festivities planned for this two day cultural extravaganza which includes headline act The Blame Game’s Colin Murphy.  The prestigious Antrim Business Awards will kick start the line-up of events at The Old Courthouse on Friday 24 February. A Twilight Market, Baby Rave, Fun Fair , Tea Dances and Story Telling with Mr Hullabaloo are just a few of the amazing activities lined up for Antrim Live.

One of the most exciting events to look out for is Operation Wolfhound, a unique interactive adventure experience created by Big Telly Theatre Company especially for Antrim Live. Teams of special agents will have to unravel a series of secret clues to unlock the mystery and save Antrim from the curse of the White Lady. If you’ve got what it takes then assemble your team and sign up fast.

With something to tantalise every taste, Antrim Live is guaranteed to bring Antrim Town to life in time for the imminent arrival of spring! Tots, teens, seniors and shoppers are all catered for in what promises to be two days of fantastic festival fun…check out the full programme now www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/antrimlive  and make a date in the diary for Antrim Live! We know you’re going to LOVE Antrim Live!

 

 

Down

The GIANT LEGO brick animal trail will be at WWT Castle Espie rom Saturday 11 February – Sunday 2 April with the sculptures sitting amongst some of their real life cousins!  The awesome models will form a trail for kids (and big kids) to inspire them to build a better future for nature. Visitors will be able to enjoy the trail of nine individually-designed 1.5m LEGO brick animals, some inspired by real species at Castle Espie Wetland Centre. Included are an Hawaiian Goose (the world’s largest and rarest goose), a red breasted goose and a kingfisher.  Workshops take place every weekend (Sat 11 Feb – Sun 2 Apr) and during the February half term holidays (Sat 11 – Thurs 16 Feb) at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Armagh

Family Super Saturday returns to the Market Place Theatre this weekend. This fin-tastic, family musical follows Timothy Pope [and his telescope!] on three exciting adventure.  Timothy Pope is looking through his telescope – but wait, is that a Shark, in the Park!?   From the creative team behind ‘The Hairy Maclary show’ – see all three of Nick Sharratt’s ‘Shark In The Park’ books live on Stage [‘Shark In The Park’, ‘Shark In The Dark’ and ‘Shark In The Park On A Windy Day’].  POST SHOW ACTIVITIES: Ticket price includes post-show one hour of fun activities including Themed Craft Workshop, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling & Fancy Dress Competition with prizes For Best Dress Boy & Girl. Great value for money! Super Saturdays are recommended for age 4+.

Fermanagh

Having been named ‘Entertainer of the Year’ by The Sunday World and ‘Songwriter of the Year’ at the RTE Country Music Awards, Derek Ryan is now back with his 2017 tour performing his much loved hit singles. Don’t miss him this weekend, 9^th and 10^th February at the Ardhowen Theatre.

Tyrone

In partnership with No 8 Bridal, the Cookstown Bridal Showcase at the Burnavon Theatre this Saturday will feature a range of local suppliers who can help exceed every bride and grooms expectations to ensure that your wedding day is perfect. The event provides lots of options for the savvy bride to organise her wedding under one roof with local suppliers close to hand.

Derry

Continuing his run of sell-out tours, Jake O’Kane is back at the Riverside Theatre Coleraine this Saturday 11^th February with his new show, ‘Old Enough to Know Better’.  Combining stories from the year past with photos from the Irish News archive and the wackier side of the Internet, Jake dissects the insane from the mad and the worst from the bad, in his usual inimitable style.  On this tour, Jake is supported by talented comic Terry McHugh.  If you’ve caught Jake’s live tour before you’ll know this new show is not to be missed; if you haven’t, come along and see what you’ve been missing.

Antrim

Calling all 2 – 5 year olds! Join the Braid Ballymena this Saturday for a 1/2 hour storytelling and craft event which will see the museum collection come to life. Toddlers will get an opportunity to be part of a local story through dance and art.  After the stories are told each child will get an opportunity to make their own special piece of artwork inspired by what was heard.  A local artist and storyteller will lead the session. Children must be accompanied by an adult.  Two sessions have been organised: 10.30 to11.00am and 12noon to 12.30pm.

Belfast

Following on from the success of last year’s “Big Bang Theatre”, W5 brings you the Silent Science Show! Take your seats for some slapstick science in a unique black and white, silent stage show! Prepare yourself for exciting, experimental and somewhat unusual family theatre this February. Danger, humour, excitement and some very cool science combine to make a really entertaining experience. Running selected dates from 11 February – 26 March. The Silent Science Show is FREE with admission to W5.

 

­For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.