Month: February 2017

W5 Presents – The Silent Science Show

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 “SSSSSHH… W5 need some Sci-lence!”

 

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. Visit www.w5online.co.uk for full information.

LITTLE WING PIZZERIA DISHES OUT THE DOUGH TO SIX LOCAL CLUBS

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Six local children’s clubs have been awarded £500 bursaries from the Little Wing Little Stars bursary scheme.

 

Six local children’s clubs have been awarded £500 bursaries from the Little Wing Little Stars bursary scheme. Returning for the third year, the bursary scheme is run by local pizzeria company Little Wing and is open to all kids clubs located near its six branches. Since its launch, 12 clubs from across Northern Ireland have benefitted and this year’s winners are east Belfast’s Ojika NI Kids Kendo Club, Malone Rugby Club Minis, Bangor Swimming Club, Fighting Words Belfast, Carryduff Colts FC and Jets Cheerleading Team from Enniskillen. Pictured: Malone Minis players, Shay Scullion; Jackson Brown from Fighting Words; Niamh Logismyth, Carryduff Colts; Jamie Mendez, operations manager, Little Wing Pizzeria and Tara Morrison, included Ojika NI Kids Kendo Club. Picture by Matt Mackey, Press Eye.

Returning for the third year, the bursary scheme is run by local pizzeria company Little Wing and is open to all kids clubs located near its six branches.  Since its launch, 12 clubs from across Northern Ireland have benefitted and this year’s winners are east Belfast’s Ojika NI Kids Kendo Club, Malone Rugby Club Minis, Bangor Swimming Club, Fighting Words Belfast, Carryduff Colts FC and Jets Cheerleading Team from Enniskillen.

Luke Wolsey, managing director of Little Wing Pizzeria, says the scheme is a way for the pizzeria to give something back to the local community: “The Little Wing Little Stars bursary scheme has been running for three years now and it’s been a pleasure to financially assist kids clubs in the local area.

“It is important that children stay active and have hobbies and the bursaries are always very welcome by the clubs.  This year, Fighting Words Belfast will be purchasing tables for the club’s after-schools sessions and Bangor Swimming Club plans to buy specialised equipment and treat the kids to team days out with the money.

“We’ll be running the scheme again in 2017 and I would encourage all local clubs to keep an eye out for the launch of this year’s scheme in September if they want to become involved.”

Little Wing is part of the Beannchor Group, Ireland’s largest hospitality group, which boasts a portfolio of over 50 pubs, hotels and restaurants across Northern Ireland.

For further information, visit littlewingpizzeria.com

Major exhibition of world illustrators returns to Limavady

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Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre in Limavady has been chosen as the only arts centre in Northern Ireland to host this year’s international World Illustration Awards exhibition.

Opening on February 18th, it features over 50 of the very best artworks submitted to the World Illustration Awards across eight categories, including advertising, children’s books, editorial and public art.

The pieces on display range from posters, book illustrations, animations and GIFs to sculptural pieces and textiles.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Maura Hickey said: “We are delighted that an exhibition of such global significance is coming to Limavady. It represents artistic talent from the UK and Europe, as well as much further afield including South Korea, Australia, Israel, China and Japan. This is a fantastic opportunity to view such a wealth of talent in one of our local facilities.”

Desima Connolly, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Cultural Facilities Development Manager, said: “We are delighted to be the only arts venue in Northern Ireland to host this amazing touring exhibition for the second year running. Last year, many local schools and college groups visited the show and gave us wonderful appreciative feedback.

“We are so excited to be able to offer local communities the opportunity to see such internationally acclaimed, award-winning artwork once again. We have Education Packs to accompany the exhibition and there will also be a gallery family corner for adults and children to engage with the display.”

Owen Denvir launches new EP “Motion Picture Soundtrack” in Belfast, Crescent Arts Centre on 12th February 2017

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“Well worth a watch” – Independent.ie

“Honest and personal song-craft, paired with beautiful vocals… This Northern star is rising fast” – Hot Press magazine
Belfast singer-songwriter & video maker Owen Denvir is pleased to announce the launch of his new video EP “Motion Picture Soundtrack” on 12th February 2017 in Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast. Throughout the show he will be joined by a brass trio, a string trio and Hannah McPhillimy (who will also be performing a warmup slot).

Tickets are available here: www.wegottickets.com/owendenvir

Training as a young orchestral viola player, Owen Denvir was drawn by the alternative sound of Bon Iver over Bach. These two styles of music influence his songwriting, which Hot Press magazine have described as “honest, personal… complex and affecting”.

An avid video and mashup maker, Owen caught the attention of Coldplay with his “Best Of” mashup, performing a fusion of hits from their first 7 albums. His full series of split-screen multi-instrumental arrangements reached over 800,000 views in 2016, across Youtube and Facebook.

Owen’s Live Video EP “Motion Picture Soundtrack” offers an original alternative to releasing new music, keeping with his signature “split-screen” style and one-man multi-instrumentalism. Coverage has come as widespread as Irish television spots on UTV Life and TV3, with features from ITV News, Independent.ie & Belfast Telegraph, as well as major Irish radio stations Cool FM & BBC Radio Ulster.

 

Email: press@owendenvir.com
Website: www.owendenvir.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OwenDenvir
Twitter: www.twitter.com/OwenDenvir

Get Creative at Castle Mall

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The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott showed his support as Big Telly Theatre Company in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council opened their creative workshop in Castle Mall Shopping centre.

 

The workshop will be open until Saturday 25 February with lots happening from theatre, music and dance workshops to art installations, poetry slams and adventures. This workshop is loosely themed around games so look out for those favourite board games and don’t forget to tell us what your favourite games are either at home or in the playground! There may even be a game you used to play that isn’t popular anymore if so, let us know!

 

The Creative  workshop is leading up to a unique event ‘Operation Wolfhound’ which involves history, mystery and stories rooted in Antrim and is part of Antrim Live Festival, a two day extravaganza of arts & culture set for Antrim Town Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February. A full list of events can be found at www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/antrimlive

 

Big Telly Theatre Company invite everyone in the area to tell them something new about the town of Antrim or do you know a story about Antrim in the past? If so they would love to hear from you.  This project is very keen to support older people to allow them to share their skills to the wider community.  So if you are part of a group or an individual who would like to get involved please contact Big Telly on

E: bigtellyshop@gmail.com or 07928647683.

 

This Creative workshop is a professionally led arts programme which supports communities and traders to reanimate town centres.

 

It doesn’t have to be a Hard Knock Life this Mid Term!

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Join us for a special Mid-Term treat as Theatre at The Mill’s Home Spun Youth Theatre present the Broadway classic musical Annie JR from Wednesday 15 – Sunday 19 February.

This much loved family favourite sees young Annie run away from the orphanage and the cruel arms of Miss Hannigan.

Annie stumbles upon exciting new adventures and life changes before her eyes when she softens the heart of business tycoon Will Stacks and goes to live with him in his luxurious mansion.

Featuring musical hits including It’s a Hard Knock Life, Your Never Fully Dressed without a Smile and Tomorrow, this will be the perfect treat for families this mid-term.

Tickets from £10, family tickets available from Box Office T: 028 9034 0202 or online www.theatreatthemill.com

OFFERS OF THE WEEK!

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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.

  • A Giant Escape, Bushmills Inn, Co. Antrim, from £150pps.  The award-winning four-star Bushmills Inn on the Causeway Coast is steeped in history with roaring peat fires, traditional Gas Bar, an AA Rosette Restaurant and individually designed guest rooms. Enjoy a two-night break with four-course dinner on your first evening, breakfast in bed, a signature cocktail on arrival, evening turndown and entrance tickets to the Giant’s Causeway. Valid until 31 March. To book call (028) 207 33000
  • Fabulous Foodie Break, Bishop’s Gate, Derry~ Londonderry, from £135pps.  Bishop’s Gate Hotel, recently awarded Georgina Campbell’s ‘Hideaway of the Year 2017’ is a luxury boutique hotel perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry~Londonderry. Enjoy the perfect break for food lovers with two nights’ accommodation including full Irish breakfast each morning, signature cocktail on arrival, a welcome sweet platter in your room, four-course dinner on one evening and traditional afternoon tea on one afternoon. Full prepayment is required at booking. Valid until 31 March. To book call (028) 71 140300.
  • Stay and Play, La Mon Hotel & Country Club, Co. Down, from £95pps. The La Mon Hotel and Country Club is a superb four-star venue just 15 minutes from the bustling city of Belfast yet in the heart of County Down with stunning countryside views. Enjoy an overnight stay with one round of golf in either Malone Golf Club or Shandon Park Golf Club, two of the most prestigious and challenging courses in Belfast. After you finishing playing the course, relax in the Luxury Country Club and enjoy a two course evening meal in the Bistro. Offer available Sunday – Friday and valid until 31 March. To book call 028 (90) 448631

 

10 THINGS TO DO IN NORTHERN IRELAND NEXT WEEK

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Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (February 6 – February 12).

 

  • ‘The Browning Version’, Armagh Public Library, Co. Armagh, February 7. Centre Stage Theatre Company presents the classic one-act play ‘The Browning Version’ by Terence Rattigan, one of the most popular dramatists of the twentieth century.A moving piece, it deals with the last days of Andrew Crocker-Harris, a dedicated classics master at an English public school.
  • Hansel and Gretel, Grand Opera House, Belfast, February 8 – 11. Scrumptiously surreal and with more than a sprinkle of festive magic – take an enchanting journey with Scotland’s national dance. A carousel of delicious treats from start to finish, Hansel and Gretel is full to the brim with magic and wit, with toys that come to life and a beautiful, bewitching ballerina who is not at all what she seems.
  • Teenage Market, Old Town Hall, Co. Down, February 11. This market is an initiative involving teenagers in the marketing and sales of crafts and local produce which has been running two seasons and going from strength to strength. With jewellery, crafts and loads of unique designs and food to sample, come along and look at the produce on offer.
  • The Fureys, Ardhowen Theatre, Co. Fermanagh, February 11. For over 39 years, Ireland’s legends, The Fureys have been selling out concerts worldwide. Renowned for their hit songs ‘I Will Love You’, ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’, ‘Steal Away’ and many more, don’t miss an amazing night of music that is well worth seeing.
  • Ulster Orchestra: Golden Moments, Ulster Hall, Belfast, February 11. An evening devoted to the most beautiful classical music ever written. Wash your weekday cares away and be transported by melodies such as Debussy’s Clair de Lune, the Adagio from Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s great ode to ‘love, love, love’, Romeo and Juliet. Simply relax and be uplifted by these musical masterpieces.
  • Lisa McHugh, Alley Arts & Conference Centre, Co. Tyrone, February 10. With determination and talent to last a lifetime, Lisa McHugh is a Glaswegian born star that’s more than ready to shine. Having now gained thousands of fans, the 26-year-old beauty has won 14 awards to date in under 3 years including ‘Female Vocalist of the Year’ 3 years running and ‘Outstanding Achievement on the World Stage’. Tickets cost £22.
  • Hamlet, Riverside Theatre Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, February 8. Icarus Theatre Collective and Kings Theatre presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare. The King of Denmark is dead. Consumed with grief, Prince Hamlet devotes himself to avenging his father’s death with devastating consequences for his family and the Kingdom. A company of seasoned classical actors embrace the brutality of one of the greatest plays ever written.
  • Winter Wildlife Walk, ‘Window on Wildlife’ Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, February 11. Wrap up warm and join the friendly team at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife (WOW) for a guided tour of this haven for nature, nestled in the bustling Harbour Estate. Binoculars and scopes will be provided. After the walk, you’ll be able to enjoy a warming cuppa as you savour one of the best views in Belfast. Event is free for RSPB members or £5 for adults and £3 for children.
  • Tea Dance, Old Courthouse, Co. Antrim, February 8. Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras.  Enjoy a cup of tea and whether you dance or not, these relaxed, friendly and entertaining afternoon teas are sure to delight! Tickets cost £3 and pre booking is essential.
  • Family Roller Disco, MAC, Belfast, February 11 – 12. With fun music by a live DJ, this is a family day out you won’t forget. Mums and dads can watch from the viewing gallery or join the fun and hit the rink as well. Fun for all the family, this special MAC event always sells out so get in quick to avoid disappointment. Ticket includes a 45-minute skate session and hire of your roller boots and protective gear.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of What’s On this weekend across NI

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Down

Enjoy a bird box building session with the Castle Espie Bird Watching Club from 12-4 on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th February. Get advice from club members on bird feeding and the needs of birds throughout the winter, and ask the experts any questions you might have.

Armagh

Learn to make popular balloon sculptures like the pros this Saturday morning at the Market Place Theatre, and impress the children with your new found skill. Teachers, youth & community workers and leaders, parents and event staff will find the skills and techniques taught in this workshop invaluable for creating your own balloon models at events, children’s parties and open days. Once you’ve got the hang of the twists and turns you’ll never need to hire the professionals again and you’ll certainly be a hit with the kids. This fun and informal workshop is suitable for beginners.  All balloon models made on the day can be taken home.

Fermanagh

Neil Delamere’s “Handstand Tour” comes to the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday 4th February.  The master of mirth is back where it all started, talking to strangers in rooms for money, with his own unique brand of his irreverent humour. Please note: recommended for age 16+ years.

Tyrone

David Meade, TV’s Million Dollar Mind Reader, is back on stage at the Alley Theatre Strabane  this Friday 3rd February, with his brand new 2017 tour.  David is returning to the stage following SELL OUT 2016 TOUR, with a show that promises to leave you both mesmerised and stunned at his amazing abilities.  With two new cities added to his 2017 schedule, this is set to be his biggest tour to date.

Derry /Londonderry

This Saturday RSPB NI, the Seamus Heaney HomePlace and the Lough Neagh Landscape Partnership have joined forces to celebrate World Wetlands Day 2017! The adventure will start at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, for the short bus journey to Lough Beg. You’ll enjoy a morning’s birdwatching on the shores of this special place, with experts on hand to point out the wildlife which makes its home here. You’ll also learn about the important conservation work they’re undertaking to look after this wonderful wetland. On return to the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, enjoy light refreshments and the chance to explore the exhibition on the life and works of the poet whose work evoked the magic of this landscape. This event is free but donations will be gratefully received.  Booking is essential by calling 028 9049 1547 during office hours or emailing amy.colvin@rspb.org.uk.

Antrim

Make with Clay workshop this Saturday at Mossley Mill Museum. In this messy, two hour class children will love to learn how to sculpt with air hardening clay. For children age 6-11 years of age. Learn to roll, pinch and model clay, create a castle and mythical creature to take home and paint. Come dressed for mess!

Belfast

The 2017 N.I Motorcycle Festival this Friday to Sunday will include all the top motorcycle manufacturers and dealers who will be exhibiting their latest range of road bikes, quads and motocrossers.  The motocross village is back with all the latest motocross bikes plus motocross gear and off road motorcycle clubs with all the information on how to get involved. On Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th, World Superbike legend and “King of the Jungle” CARL FOGARTY will make a special guest appearance. A four-time WSBK Champion, Carl is renowned for his pure road racing exploits at the North West 200, Isle of Man TT and Ulster Grand Prix and a must not miss at this year’s festival. Outside activities will include Supermoto Racing, Drifting and Stunt Shows from THE PURPLE HELMETS that will wow the crowds with full on displays and demonstrations.

 

­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.

 

Little Sparks Toddler Sessions at W5!

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Bring along your youngest scientists for W5’s Little Sparks toddler sessions. Visit our under 8s area, the town of Discovery, and take part in a 25-minute themed workshop as part of your visit.

Children are born natural scientists so why not bring them to W5 to let them imagine, explore, play and have fun? The town of Discovery is a place where children can learn about themselves and the world around them. Get hands-on with its interactive exhibits, play animal sounds in the farmyard, paddle in a virtual rock pool at the beach or flick through digital storybooks in the castle.

Little Sparks will be held one morning each month in W5. (Term time only) Your special Little Sparks ticket allows you entry into W5 from 10am – 12noon and sessions are aimed at children aged between 18 months and 4 years.

There will be two sessions held in the morning and each session will be themed and will include a 25-minute workshop at 10:30am or 11:15am with one of W5’s education team. Places are limited and must be pre-booked by calling 028 9046 7790 or 028 9046 7793.

Costs:

Children 4 and under: £1 each
Adults: £5.50*
Additional (non-participating) children over 4: £4.50

Details of up and coming sessions

8 February 2017

Workshop: Into the Deep, Dark Woods

Take a stroll through the deep, dark woods with our storyteller to spot some curious creatures and find out what is for tea! This children’s classic will come to life in your interactive storytelling session and inspire them to make their own ‘take home’ creation.

8 March 2017

Workshop: Teddy Bear Sense

Bring your toddler and teddy to our story telling session, Teddy Bear Sense, children will meet and hear about a bear who is not at all sensible. Both parents and children will have the opportunity to engage with the story by using their senses to touch, smell, hear, see and taste their way through their journey with Teddy Bear. Please encourage your toddler to bring their own teddy bear along to the event.

5 April 2017

Workshop: Wild Tracks

Are you wild about nature? Join us for a journey of imagination through the woods. Our Little Sparks will discover some wonderful woodland animals and find out what they might wear on their feet! Make and take home your own guide to track them down!

10 May 2017

Workshop: Caterpillar Capers

Can your body move like a caterpillar? Take a closer look at some real caterpillars and get creeping and crawling to some music. Find out how The Very Hungry Caterpillar eats his way through the week then make your very own caterpillar to take home.

 

Visit www.w5online.co.uk for full information.

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