The Market Place Theatre in Armagh has just released its new Autumn | Winter 2017 programme packed full of the best in entertainment including shows, workshops and exhibitions to keep audiences flooding back time and again. The choice is endless, so here’s just a glimpse of just some of the treats on offer.

On Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 September, Northern Ireland favourite May McFettridge returns with the wonderfully titled, ‘Dirty Dusting’. When three cleaners, Olive, Gladys and Elsie, are threatened with redundancy they feel that their lives are coming to an end until a chance wrong number gives them a new business start-up idea – why not run a telephone sex line? They’ve got motive, opportunity and a lifetime of experience. Provided Elsie can teach the other two a few new tricks, there’s no reason why they can’t get rich quick providing they can keep their operation a secret from their bosses… and their husbands…and their children…and their grandchildren.

Then on 14 October, it’s the turn of an oldie, but a goodie with ‘The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole’. All the agonies of Sue Townsend’s loveable loser are brought to life by the boisterous Bruiser Theatre Company. Hilariously captured in his secret diary, adolescence doesn’t offer much for our Adrian. His parents’ crumbling marriage, spots and bullies, his unrequited love for Pandora, and the erratic behaviour of his dog – his teenage world is an outrageous triumph of deadpan and deadly accurate satire. ABBA, Princess Di’s wedding, punks, Monty Python, and the Falklands campaign – all the cultural pageantry of a keenly observed era marches past the unique perspective of Sue Townsend’s creation: A. Mole, the unforgettable lad whose self-absorption only gets funnier as his life becomes more desperate.

One of stand-up comedy’s coolest customers, Reginald D Hunter, will appear for one night only on 21 October with his highly anticipated brand new show following a hugely successful year performing across Europe. In the years that he has been living and performing in the UK, Reginald’s searingly honest material has garnered him a popular fan base that spans the generations. In the past twelve months he has appeared in a critically acclaimed tour of the UK as well as performing across Europe. His appearances on television have included ‘8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown’, ‘Never Mind The Buzzcocks’ and ‘QI’ and is a frequent guest on ‘Have I Got News For You’.

Roy Orbison fans are in for a treat on 3 November, with The Roy Orbison Story. Barry Steele is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading vocalists playing homage to legend Roy Orbison. He has stunned audiences across the globe with his uncanny similarity and ability to authentically revive the exquisite toe-tapping sound of this music giant. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Big O and The Traveling Wilburys. The show also features chart busting hits originally made famous by George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Jerry Lee Lewis, Del Shannon. Backed by a big screen and phenomenally talented musicians, the result is an incredible fusion of ‘60s solid gold classics and ‘80s contemporary musical genius, all on one stage.

Come December, and it’s time for the Big One! This year’s Christmas extravaganza will be the timeless tale, ‘Sleeping Beauty’. This full-scale traditional pantomime will combine wonderful music, song and dance, colourful costumes, memorable characters, and loads of audience participation, in a lively and sparkling Christmas adventure. Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, a beautiful princess is born. The entire kingdom is delighted, apart from the evil fairy, who places a curse on the Princess, so that she will prick her finger on a poisoned spinning wheel on her 16^th birthday! Who could possibly break such a terrible spell? And who will be brave enough to challenge the evil fairy? And what mad shenanigans will occur in the meantime? Come to The Market Place Theatre this Christmas to find out…

For details of all events can be found online at www.marketplacearmagh.com, and tickets for can be booked by contacting the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821.

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.

Ballycastle Senior Tennis Tournament

Date: 14^th-20^th August 2017

Time: various times daily

Venue:  Mary Street, Ballycastle

Contact: Carol.Nicholl@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Ballycastle Tennis Courts are located on Mary Street, comprising of 5 Grass Courts – the only grass courts in Northern Ireland and 6 floodlit polymeric courts Spectators travel from near and far to enjoy this unique event at the seafront in Ballycastle. These tournaments have entries from all over Europe and increasing every year.

 

Children’ Street Theatre

Date:  18^th August

Time: 13.30pm Station Square, Portrush & 16.00pm at   The Crescent, Portstewart

Venue: Portrush & Portstewart

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 0287034 4723

Come along and enjoy some free Street Entertainment this Summer in the Causeway Coast and Glens with the Raven Sisters. It is a high energy, non-stop cabaret of chaos, including hat manipulation, contemporary clowning and hula hooping.

 

Film: Finding Dory

Date: 18^th August

Time: 14.00 pre- screening art workshop for children aged 5-8 years at 12.00.

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

A screening of this popular family favourite with Nemo & Marlin helping Dory find her parents.

 

Party on the Pitch

Date: 18^th -19^th August

Time: Friday 17:00 – music from 18:00 – 23:00,   Saturday 14:00 – music from 15:00 – 23:00

Venue: Ballymoney RFC, 63 KIlraughts Road, Ballymoney

Contact: andy@partyonthepitch.ie  Tel no: 07900 601 700

After last year’s success, Party on the Pitch is back in Ballymoney. This year we have the fabulous Nathan Carter headlining a country night on Friday 18th August, and a big show special on Saturday 19th, featuring Showaddywaddy.  Booking Details: www.partyonthepitch.ie  Prices: one day £30, one day VIP £50 and weekend rates available.

Bushmills Food Tour

Date: 18^th & 19^th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: departing from Bushmills Visitor Information Centre

Contact: northcoastwalking@gmail.com   Tel: 028 2073 0390   Mob no: 007718 276 612

A food tour of Bushmills, learning about local culture, whilst tasting some of the best foods and produce in the North Of Ireland, served up by passionate owners and chefs. This town is a treasure trove of whiskey, salmon and potatoes.

 

The North West Pipe Band Competition, Portrush

Date: 18^th – 19^th August

Time: Commences 11.00 and at 18.00 street parade after competition

Venue: Recreation Grounds, Ramore Head, Portrush

Contact: info@rspbani.org    Tel no: 028 92 670445

Portrush will resound to the strains of hundreds of pipers on Saturday 19th August when the North West Pipe Band Championships commence at 11:00 hrs. Each year up to 50 pipe bands gather to compete against one another in what has become one of the most popular events of the summer in the seaside town of Portrush. Highland dancing competitions will be held on Friday 18th August at the same venue from 10:00 – 17:00 hrs.

 

Ballymoney & District Gardening Club 89th Annual Garden Show

Date: 19th August

Time: 13.00 – 16.30

Venue: St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Ballymoney

Contact: K.bacon14@btinternet.com   Tel no: 028 2766 6925

Ballymoney & District Gardening Club will hold their Annual Garden Show. This is a unique opportunity to visit and experience this much loved tradition, an event which all the family can thoroughly enjoy and be involved.

 

Tom Thumb

Date: 19^th August

Time: 14.00

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

The classic is told through puppetry, object theatre, storytelling and music.  Admission £5.00 (family tickets available).  There is a pre- show puppet workshop for children and families

 

Stop it Nurse

Date:  19^th August

Time: 20.00

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

Contact: Riversidetheatre@org.uk Tel no: 028 70 123 123

Set in a Belfast hospital during the 60″s the Ward Sister rules the roost. We follow the fortunes and misfortunes of the patients in the male surgical ward. When Sammy, a Linfield supporter is admitted followed by Felix who supports Glentoran we can be sure mayhem follows. Add to the mix a giddy nurse, a domineering wife, a femme fatale and an all in wrestler then we have all the ingredients for a typical evening of pure Cree manic magic!

 

 

Portrush Summer Fireworks Extravaganza

Date: 19^th August

Time: 20.30 Band, 22.30 Fireworks

Venue: Ramore Head, Portrush

Contact: colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 028 7034 4723

The Summer Fireworks Extravaganza takes place at Ramore Head, Portrush. The rocky headland, at the edge of the sea is a great location to view the firework display. It is a fantastic family event for visitors staying and exploring everything that the seaside resort has to offer. The evening will begin at 20:30 with live music from the band Curve. The fireworks start at around 22.30.

 

Causeway Market

Date: 19^th & 26^th August

Time: 9.00-16.00

Venue: The Diamond, Coleraine

Contact: Market Manager Tel no: 07702910884

One of the largest outdoor Market in Northern Ireland with locally sourced produce from food to gifts and snacks

 

Causeway coast Truck Fest 2017

Date: 20^th   August

Time: 10.00

Venue: The NW200 Pitts, Portstewart

Contact: info@causewaycoasttruckfest.com   Tel no: 028 20344723

Truck show and family fun day starting at 10am at the NW200 Pits Portstewart, followed by Truck Convoy of the NW200 circuit at 4pm. 300+ Show trucks, local food, trade and craft village, live entertainment for all to enjoy!

 

Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail

Date: 21^th August 2017

Time: as booked

Venue: Swanns Bridge, River Roe, Limavady

Contact: info@longlinesurfschool.co.uk, Tel: 07738128507

Flow with Nature down the River Roe whilst learning the skills and techniques of this increasingly popular sport.

 

 

Children’s Street Theatre

Date: 21st August

Time: 14.00pm and 16.00pm

Venue: Ballycastle seafront

Contact: ballycastlevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk     Tel: 028 207 62024

Part of the Council’s programme of free summer entertainment.  Summer entertainment  with Babcocks and Bobbins.

 

Alice through the Looking Glass

Date: 22^nd August

Time: 12.00 noon

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

Follow Alice’s fantastical adventures in the strange world.  Tickets £5.00  Family tickets available.

 

Children’ Street Theatre

Date:  23th August

Time: 13.30pm Station Square, Portrush & 16.00pm at  The Crescent, Portstewart

Venue: Portrush & Portstewart

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 0287034 4723

Come along and enjoy some free Street Entertainment this Summer in the Causeway Coast and Glens.  Jim will get the crowd going with a number of unicycle and juggling tricks to keep all entertained. Free event.

Damhead Miniature Railway

Date: 26^th August

Time: 12.00-17.00

Venue: 48 Damhead Road, Coleraine

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk    Tel: (028) 2587 8237   Mob: (07703) 254 595

Damhead Miniature Railway, in the heart of the countryside between Coleraine and Ballymoney, is a great place to visit with the children. The small trains can be travelled on by both the kids and adults and the track covers one third of a mile. There are picnic facilities on site.

 

Motorsport – Eagles Rock Climb

Date: 26^th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: Bellerena, Limavady

Contact: declanmccay@gmail.com   Tel no: 028 7776 0650   Mob no: 07713 587264

The spectacular Eagles Rock Hill climb, one of Ireland’s oldest Hill climbs, previously run by the Coleraine and District Motor Club, Maiden City MC now run this bank holiday weekend event.

 

Ballycastle Annual Heavy Horse and Vintage show

Date: 26^th August

Time:  Annual Heavy Horse Show from Council Offices Car Park, Mary Street, Ballycastle at 11:00.
Vintage Car & Tractor Parade assemble at Dalriada Hospital Car Park, Ballycastle at 15:30.

Venue: as above

Contact: jkmccarry@gmail.com     Tel no: 028 2076 3671

Once again the Lammas Fair draws near and for us that only means one thing, ‘Show Time’. Last years event proved to be very successful with the entrants travelling from far and wide to Ballycastle and proved very popular with locals and tourists.

 

Causeway Coast Mini Club Mini Weekend

Date: 26^th – 27^th

Time: 17.30 Saturday evening from leaving at 19.00 from Bushmills Distillery to Portstewart

10.30 Sunday Static Show at West Bay, Portrush

Venue: Saturday at Bushmills Distillery and Sunday at West Bay, Portrush

Contact: jtmc@jonnytiger.wanadoo.co.uk    Tel no:  028 7083 5518

On Saturday evening the Mini “Dash” sets out from Bushmills Distillery and follows the coast road to Portstewart. On Sunday the static display showcases a vast array of Minis at the West Bay, Portrush, finishing with a cavalcade around the area.  www.ccminiclub.co.uk   This is a free event to come and spectate at.
To exhibit a Mini: £10 (per car) pre-booked, £15 on the day.

Children’s Street Theatre

Date: 27th  August

Time: 14.00pm and 16.00pm

Venue: Ballycastle seafront

Contact: ballycastlevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk     Tel: 028 2076 2024

Part of the Council’s programme of free summer entertainment.  Summer entertainment  with Jim and Dr Nick.

 

The Auld Lammas Fair and Fireworks Display

Date:  27^th -29^th August

Time: Firework display Sunday 27th at 21:00
Trading Days Monday 28th – Tuesday 29th 09:00 – 21:00

Venue: Ballycastle

Contact: ballycastlevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel no: 028 2076 2024

Visit Ireland’s traditional oldest fair which takes place on the last Monday and Tuesday of August.
This year’s Fair will be officially launched with a spectacular seafront fireworks display organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on Sunday night 27th August. This new addition to the programme will provide a memorable opening to a much loved event.

The present day fair provides street entertainment and market stalls. Two days of trading, bargaining, busking, amusements and street entertainment competitions to add to the atmosphere in the beautiful seaside resort of Ballycastle.

 

Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market – Ballycastle Seafront

Date: 27^th– 29^th August

Time: 11.00-17.00

Venue: Ballycastle Seafront

Contact: info@naturallynorthcoastandglens.co.uk     Tel No: 07723 622 008

Naturally North Coast and Glens Market provides the opportunity to experience a unique artisan market in and around the North Coast and Glens region of Northern Ireland. Market visitors will have every sense tantalised through the colourful art and crafts, the delicious smell and taste of fresh food produce and the sound of musicians providing a backdrop to the buzz of traders and customers chatting and laughing.

 

Damhead Miniature Railway

Date: 28^th August

Time: 12.00-17.00

Venue: 48 Damhead Road, Coleraine

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk    Tel: (028) 2587 8237   Mob: (07703) 254 595

Damhead Miniature Railway, in the heart of the countryside between Coleraine and Ballymoney, is a great place to visit with the children. The small trains can be travelled on by both the kids and adults and the track covers one third of a mile. There are picnic facilities on site.

 

Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail

Date: 28^th August 2017

Time: as booked

Venue: Swanns Bridge, River Roe, Limavady

Contact: info@longlinesurfschool.co.uk, Tel: 07738128507

Flow with Nature down the River Roe whilst learning the skills and techniques of this increasingly popular sport.

Friday 18 – Thursday 24 August

 

Until Wednesday 23 August, Donaghadee Summer Festival

Donaghadee, various locations

Donaghadee Summer Festival continues with a variety of fun events for all the family over the festival fortnight. See website for full programme.

Info: 028 9182 6846,  visitdonaghadee.com

 

Friday 18 August, Music in the Courtyard

North Down Museum, Bangor

12noon – 2pm | Free

Chill out in the ambiance of lunchtime music performances, every Friday in August.

Info:  028 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

 

Friday 18 August, Fair Weather Fridays

Conway Square, Newtownards

12.30 – 1.30pm | Free

With everything from music to circus performance and comedy, Conway Square will be the place to be in Ards on Fridays throughout August.

Info: 028 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

 

Saturday 19 August, Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry

2pm-4pm | Free

Plant and Play – Planting Seed Workshop and Design a Fairy Garden

Info: 028 4272 9882, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 19 August, Portaferry Triathlon

Portaferry Shore Front

11am – 3pm | Free to spectate

Watch the intrepid triathletes as they battle the fast currents of the Narrows at the mouth of Strangford Lough before a 5k run and 21.5k cycle through the Co Down countryside.  Fun family activities onshore. Info: 028 Info: 028 9182 6846, narrowstc.co.uk

 

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm | Free

Come along to Groomsport for free family fun every weekend from now until September.

Sat 19    Clayrazy Workshop and Balloon Modelling

Sun 20    Science Workshop, Glitter Tattoos and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open 11am – 5pm

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 19 August, Groomsport Music and Fireworks

Groomsport Harbour

6.30pm – 10pm | Free

Make the most of the summer nights, enjoying music and fireworks with family and friends. This year’s headliner will be Bruce Springstreen tribute, The Boss UK.

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Sunday 20 August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park, Bangor

3pm – 5pm | Free

Join us for live music every Sunday in August. This week, see  Wasted Talent, Bangor’s favourite punk rock sons, play music from the Pistols. Clash, SLF, PIL, Dead Kennedys and more.

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Monday 21 August, Step Back in Time

Bangor, various

2.30pm-4.30pm | £5

Gain an insight into the history of the Ward Family who built Bangor Castle in 1852 and discover what life was like as a Victorian servant. Take this rare opportunity to tour Bangor Castle and the Walled Garden followed by tea and a treat in Coffee Cure.

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Tuesday 22 August, Bangor Christian Heritage Walk    

Bangor Town Area

2.30pm-4pm | £4

Trace the steps of canons, priests and pilgrims in a tour that encompasses visits to Bangor Abbey, St Comgall’s Roman Catholic Church, First Bangor Presbyterian Church and the North Down Museum.

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Friday 25 – Thursday 31 August

 

Friday 25 August, Music in the Courtyard

North Down Museum, Bangor

12noon – 2pm | Free

Chill out in the ambiance of lunchtime music performances, every Friday in August.

Info:  028 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

 

Friday 25 August, Fair Weather Fridays

Conway Square, Newtownards

12.30 – 1.30pm | Free

With everything from music to circus performance and comedy, Conway Square will be the place to be in Ards on Fridays throughout August.

Info: 028 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

 

Saturday 26 August, Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry

2pm-4pm | Free

Animal Road Show and Children’s Crafts

Info: 028 4272 9882, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm | Free

Come along to Groomsport for free family fun every weekend from now until September.

Sat 26    Mr Hullabaloo Puppet Show

Sun 27   Jumping Clay Workshop, Children’s Crafts and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 26 August, Kid’s “Sea-Creatures” Nature Trail

Millisle Beach

2pm-4pm | £2.50 per child (all children must be accompanied by an adult)

Join local naturalist ‘Woody’ on a beachcombing adventure to uncover the numerous types of sea creatures who live on the shores

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Sunday 27 August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park, Bangor

2.30pm-5pm| Free

Enjoy the perfect end to the summer with the return of the popular Open House Bluegrass Picnic on Sunday 27 August (2.30pm), with live music from the Chicago’s Henhouse Prowlers

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Exhibitions

 

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, BT22 1NZ

T: 028 4272 9882

 

Saturday 5 – Sunday 27 August

Art in the Loft: ‘The Language of Pain’

An exhibition by the Martin family addressing the hidden side of pain

 

North Down Museum, Bangor

Castle Park Avenue, located by Bangor Castle (Town Hall), BT20 4BT

T: 028 9127 1200 | northdownmuseum.com

 

Until Sunday 20 August 

The Lay of the Land Exhibition

Bangor based artists draw on their experiences of living and working within the beautiful borough of Ards and North Down.

 

Wednesday 2 August – Sunday 3 September 

Creative Peninsula

A celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and craftspeople

 

Ards Crafts and Visitor Information Centre

31 Regent Street, Newtownards, BT23 4AD

T: 028 9182 6846

 

Saturday 5 – Saturday 26 August

Meet the Maker: ‘Natural Impressions’

A collaborative exhibition by Printmaker Michael Geddis and Ceramicist Andrew Cooke

 

Ards Arts Centre

Town Hall, Conway Square,  Newtownards, BT23 4NP

T: 028 9181 0803

 

Wednesday 2 – Thursday 31 August

Creative Peninsula

A showcase of the high concentration of artists and craft persons living and working in the Ards Peninsula

 

There’ll be an enhanced agricultural theme at this year’s Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle.

Ireland’s oldest fair has a connection to horse trading dating back hundreds of years and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council wants to build on this tradition.

Since the 17th century, horse traders have flocked to Fairhill Street in the centre of the seaside town to buy and sell animals, and they’ll return to the area again this year on Monday 28th August and Tuesday 29th August, continuing the Fair’s unbroken history.

Alongside the horse trading, a range of other attractions will be available over both days. These include a mobile farm, which will be housed inside the former Council depot. Alpacas, goats and sheep will be on display along with rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks and chickens. Or for something a little more exotic, there will be a snake, a bearded dragon and meerkats.

In a new partnership with Council, Coleraine-based charity, Riding for the Disabled, will provide pony and trap rides, along with pony rides for children, in return for a small donation. They’ll be bringing a wheel-chair accessible trap, allowing disabled visitors the opportunity to take part.

Over both days, look out for horse-shoe making displays and see a skilled farrier at work. Visitors will have an opportunity to take home a horse shoe made at the Fair as a unique memento of the event. And to add to the nostalgia, various vintage vehicles, including tractors, will be on display.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Joan Baird OBE, said: “Horse-trading has a long association with the Auld Lammas Fair, and I’m delighted to see these additional attractions are coming to Fairhill Street this year as we seek to build on the event’s agricultural appeal. I hope everyone visiting the Fair this year will enjoy what’s on offer, and we are looking forward to another memorable Fair.”

For the first time, this year’s Auld Lammas Fair programme will include a spectacular fireworks display, which will take place on Sunday night (August 27th). On August 28th and August 29th, Ballycastle will be transformed into a town-wide market place, featuring hundreds of stalls, buskers, musicians, horse trading, and funfair attractions.

The weekend build-up also includes the traditional heavy horse show and vintage car and tractor parade on Saturday, with live music in the Diamond on Sunday night following the fireworks.

A small number of designated Council stalls are still available during the Fair. For more information telephone 028 2766 0216 or email environmentalhealth@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

For further details go to www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com or follow Causeway Coast and Glens Events on Facebook.

The Millennium Forum today received an Autism Impact Award in recognition of its ongoing efforts in providing fully accessible experiences for all patrons.

The flagship arts and cultural venue was presented with this award by Christine English, Autism NI’s Development Manager and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor John Boyle.

The Autism Impact Award recognises organisations who excel in creating a more ‘Autism friendly environment’ for their customers. Through attaining an Impact Award, organisations can confidently open up their business to the 30,000 individuals and families living with Autism in Northern Ireland that previously may have been excluded. This award equips businesses to better understand any staff and customers who may have Autism and allows them to adapt their organisation’s environment to support this.  The Impact Award includes staff training and support to implement a range of adjustments to improve accessibility.

Box Office Manager, Lisa Heaney, completed the accreditation to become an Autism Champion. She said:

“Twenty-four of our staff completed the training course and we’ve made numerous adjustments to our products and services in order to achieve this award.  These include continuing with and increasing our relaxed performances, implementing a permanent Quiet Area that can be accessed during all performances, implementing a customer service Code of Practise across online, phone and in-person interactions, introducing visual menus for our bars and shop, colour coding our doors to assist with ease of access for our patrons, as well as the continuing promotion and implementation of our Access Membership Scheme.”

Christine English, Autism NI’s Development Manager comments:

“We are delighted to present Millennium Forum with the Impact Award, which recognises their commitment to increase Autism Accessibility in their organisation. This is the latest success for Derry City and Strabane District Council as they work with Autism NI to become an Autism Friendly Council.

The Millennium Forum has implemented a number of changes as a result of the Impact Award Scheme, including more visual information and a quiet area that customers can use when visiting the organisation.  On behalf of Autism NI, I would like to congratulate all the staff and Autism Champions on achieving the Impact Award.”

The Mayor, Councillor Maolíosa McHugh added:

“On behalf of Derry City and Strabane District Council I would like to warmly congratulate the Millennium Forum on having their inclusivity and accessibility recognised with this prestigious title.  The Autism NI Impact Award is just acknowledgement for the dedicated work of the staff at the Millennium Forum in creating a venue where the particular needs of individuals and families living with Autism can be accommodated.”

David McLaughlin, Chief Executive of the Millennium Forum is delighted that the Forum has been recognised by this award:

“This is fantastic news for our venue and is testament to the hard work of all our staff.  The Millennium Forum prides itself in proving accessible theatre for all and has, in recent years, been at the forefront of developing fully accessible theatre through special Relaxed and Dementia Friendly performances of our annual pantomime and other productions; indeed, we were the first theatre in Ireland to showcase these performances for our Christmas pantomime back in 2014, and, last year, this offering was developed to form the ‘Sing Song Sessions’ which took the panto cast to various centres across the city, enabling people living with dementia to enjoy an afternoon of live music.  We hope to continue and build on these efforts as part of our ongoing commitment to providing accessible theatre for all our patrons.”

 

There’s plenty for kids at this year’s Aspects! The much-loved literature festival which unveiled it’s 2017 programme last week is a staple on the Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts calendar and will this year run from 14 -24 September.

Myra Zepf – Children’s Writing Fellow for Northern Ireland will host children’s workshops at North Down Museum on Saturday September 16.  Myra will be reading from her book ‘Don’t Go To School.’ Take the little ones along to hear the story of Benno the bear who can’t wait to go to school, this is a fun session in which the children play a game with the author based on the story. Myra will also be running a story-making workshop where children will learn a writing trick behind the funniest of stories, no pens or paper required, but an epic brain storming session – sparked by a sack-full of props – expect lots of laughs!

Also on Saturday 16, Stephen Beggs will perform ‘My Father’s Chair’ at Studio 1A on Hamilton Road. This performance for families about the nature of fatherhood will explore what it’s like to have a dad, be a dad and the unique relationships between kids and their fathers. Expect to be taken on a funny, emotional journey – a father’s voice and perspective in the world of theatre for younger audiences.

For more energetic youngsters – try Gruffalo yoga with Little Feet Big Moves. Taking place at North Down Museum on Sunday 17 September, this amazing yoga adventure is inspired by the popular children’s story ‘The Gruffalo.’  Young yogis will love practicing yoga poses as they re-enact the story of the brave little mouse who takes a stroll through the deep dark woods.

Bangor Carnegie Library will be a hive of activity on Saturday 23 September with two children’s workshops taking place at the venue. At 10.30am a Sensory Story: We’re going on a Bear Hunt promises to be fun for little ones. Follow along with the story and enjoy the sensory themes. Dress for mess and wear comfortable clothing, lots of swishy, swash and squelching guaranteed! Then at 2pm, the Hanging Sculptures workshop will show children how to build their own sculpture that moves and blows in the wind, using various colours and materials, sure to be pieces of modern art!

For more information and to book tickets, visit aspectsfestival.com The Aspects 2017 festival brochure is also now available. Pick up your copy today from any of our Visitor Information Centres, North Down Museum or The Town Hall, Bangor.

 

Canadian poet George Elliott Clarke, whose work features on U2’s current Joshua Tree anniversary tour, will visit Seamus Heaney HomePlace on Wednesday 23 August as part of ‘The Shaken and the Stirred: A Celebration of Canadian Poetry’. 

Two poems by Clarke, who is Canada’s Parliamentary Poet and Poet Laureate, appear as projections before every show on U2’s current North American and European tour.  ‘Kaddish for Leonard Cohen’ was written as a tribute to the late Montreal songwriter, while ‘Ain’t You Scared of the Sacred’ addresses the Quebec City mosque shooting in January that left six people dead.

Clarke forms part of ‘The Shaken and the Stirred’, a collective of five renowned Canadian poets and novelists will present their work in public readings throughout the UK and Northern Ireland to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of Canada.

The poetry collective of individual writers is selected each year by a panel, representing the Canadian Centre for Creative Learning. This year the collective also includes prize-winning authors Jeanette Lynes, Ian Burgham, Catherine Graham and Giovanna Riccio reading from their recently released and upcoming collections.

These writers, all of whom have been published and recognised internationally, not only represent some of the strongest voices and best contemporary work being produced in Canada, but demonstrate a wide range of kinds of poetry and themes that currently can be found in the Canadian literary landscape and have produced over thirty collections of poetry.

Tickets for ‘The Shaken and the Stirred: A Celebration of Canadian Poetry’ on Wednesday 23 August at 7.30pm at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, are £5 and are available now from www.seamusheaneyhome.com

Jordanstown Loughshore Park will once again be the place to be over the August Bank Holiday weekend, as the ever popular Shoreline Festival returns on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 August.

The guaranteed family fun kicks off on Saturday at 2pm with activities such as street theatre, an exhilarating zip line along the lough and a scooter park.

The family fun continues each day of the festival with activities including bouncy castles, retro games arcade, a petting farm, climbing wall and face painting.  For those looking to pick up a unique gift, Bonkers Betty’s Bizarre Bazaar is open for business from 2pm – 8pm on Sunday 27 August.

Fabulous musical entertainment is again the main attraction of the festival with excellent concerts planned. On Saturday night there will be fireworks and live music from Faith, The George Michael Experience and on Sunday evening, Oasis tribute band Roll With It, will bring this “Supersonic” weekend to a close. (Please note that glass bottles are not permitted at any of the concerts and the fireworks display is dependent on weather conditions).

The family fun runs from 2pm – 10pm both days and admission to the festival is free of charge, except for a small charge for the amusements.  For more information visit www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/shoreline or follow us on Facebook

After four years of writing and performing half hour episodes of stand up for his TV show, CONTENT PROVIDER is Stewart’s first brand new, long-form, full length show since the award-winning Carpet Remnant World.

The show opened at Leicester Square Theatre in November 2016 to great acclaim and will tour throughout the UK and return to London in November 2017 (tour schedule below).

“The most consistently funny show of his brilliant career … I laughed till it hurt.”

The Times ★★★★★

“Characteristically twisty and frequently brilliant” The Guardian ★★★★

“Venomously funny” Standard ★★★★

“Two marvellous misanthropic hours… there’s no-one else to touch him”

Mail on Sunday ★★★★★

Stewart Lee began stand-up in 1988 at the age of 20, and won the Hackney Empire New Act of the Year in 1990.  In 2001 he co-wrote the libretto for Richard Thomas’s Jerry Springer, The Opera, which went on to win four Olivier Awards.  His most recent live shows have been Carpet Remnant World (2011), Much A Stew About Nothing (2013) and Room With a Stew (2015). He made four series of Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle for the BBC which won Best Male TV Comic and Best Comedy Entertainment Performance at the British Comedy Awards in 2011 and a BAFTA in 2012. His fourth and final BBC series of Comedy Vehicle is now available on DVD.  Stewart is also an occasional newspaper columnist and has recently published a collection of his short prose, also entitled Content Provider.

 

STEWART LEE: CONTENT PROVIDER 2017 NI DATES

WED 27, 8PM,                                   LONDONDERRY,               Millennium Forum, 028 7126 4455, www.millenniumforum.co.uk

THU 28, 8PM,                                    BELFAST,                              Waterfront, 028 9033 4455, www.waterfront.co.uk

BOOKING FEES MAY APPLY