Month: August 2017

Aspects 2017 – Programme Unveiled

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The Aspects Irish Literature Festival has a long tradition of embracing writing in all its forms and bringing household names to Bangor.

Patricia Hamilton, Arts Officer, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Moyra Donaldson – Poet, Kelly Creighton – Author and Joshua Burnside – Musician launching the Aspects Event at Bangor Town Hall. Picture: Elaine HIll

Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to announce this year’s programme that once again celebrates the best of Irish writing and brings together a wealth of local literary talents and writers from further afield.

Aspects 2017 brings you a host of renowned authors including Colm Tóibín, Frank McGuinness, Peter Fallon, Carol Drinkwater, Kelly Creighton and many more.

Poetry lovers are in for a treat too with a whole host of poetry events on offer. From the annual poetry slam to readings from Michael Longley, Moyra Donaldson and Paul Madden and an event featuring Rachel McCrum.

With live music from Joshua Burnside and plenty for younger audiences with Gruffalo yoga and Myra Zepf’s children’s workshops, there really is something for everyone at this year’s Aspects.

Keep an eye out around the town for some fantastic exhibitions including Neil Shawcross’ Penguins book covers and Boom Studios will be hosting a Sketch Walk from Ward Park to Luke’s Point inspired by the words of local author Ian Sansom.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Robert Adair said, “Ards and North Down Borough Council are looking forward to welcoming everyone to join us in this celebration of the writing talent in the Borough and beyond. We hope readers and writers of all ages will be inspired by the Aspects programme.”

Speaking about the Festival, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said; “We are excited to bring this diverse Aspects programme to Bangor. It showcases the immense writing talent from this area and throughout Ireland.”

The Festival takes place from 14-24 September at various locations around Bangor. For further information on the programme and to book tickets see aspectsfestival.com

10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week!

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place Aug 14-20.

 

  1. Children’s Summer Street Theatre with the Raven Sisters, Portstewart, 18 August. Entertaining for children and adults alike, the Raven Sisters bring their unique brand of cabaret to the seaside towns of Portrush and Portstewart. Evocative of a bygone era of sideshow circus and the silver screen, brought sharply into the 21st century by these dextrous damsels and their fancy footwork. Showtimes 1.30pm and 4pm.
  2. 2017 UEFA Women’s Under -19 Championship, Belfast, until 20 August. Eight national teams, including Northern Ireland as hosts, will participate in the prestigious tournament. Showcasing Northern Ireland at its best, including our football, our facilities, our culture, our history, our fans and our unconditional love of the game. Semi-finals are on 17 August with the final on Sunday 20 August.
  3. The Charles Wood Festival & Summer School, Armagh, 20-27 August. World-renowned choral composer, John Rutter will conduct a special “come and sing” evening. The festival will also embrace jazz with a residency by leading British jazz composer, Will Todd. A gala concert will feature his popular setting of the Latin mass, Mass in Blue, and he’ll also deliver a special jazz workshop.
  4. Meditation and Mindfulness Retreat, Holywood, 18-20 August. Retreat to Lorne Estate, a 21 acre estate overlooking Belfast Lough, situated eight miles from Belfast and a mere five minute walk from the sea. Relaxed schedules and guidance from experienced teachers amid a beautiful, peaceful and relaxing setting combine to make an ideal opportunity for finding inner peace.
  5. Causeway Coast Truck Fest, Portstewart, 20 August. This truck show and family fun day starts at 10am at the NW200 Pits, followed by a truck convoy around the NW200 circuit at 4pm. The festival includes 300+ show trucks with prizes for the best trucks and fleet, local food, trade and craft village along with live entertainment for all the family to enjoy.
  6. Ulster Rally, Derry~Londonderry, 18-19 August. Stages feature the full breadth of Counties Londonderry and Tyrone with two regroups, one in Derry~Londonderry’s Guildhall Square on Friday and Strabane town centre on Saturday. The city and town areas all allow close public access to drivers, cars and autograph sessions.
  7. On the trail of Martel wild caving expedition, Enniskillen, 16 August. Delve off the beaten track to explore wild caving, deep inside the Marble Arch Caves system. Meander through cave passages, climb through boulder chambers and squeeze though the famous flyover to emerge into the Marble Arch showcave. Expedition leaves reception at 2pm.
  8. Making Waves Onboard HMS Caroline, Belfast, 16 August. Join artist Julie Greenlee for this craft family workshop onboard HMS Caroline and learn how to weave using peg looms. Use a variety of wool and fabric strips to create ‘waves’, which will then be joined together and suspended from the ceiling creating a colourful display of gently flowing waves.
  9. Lughnasa International Friel Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 17-27 August. An annual multi-arts festival celebrating Ireland’s foremost playwright of the last 50 years, the late Brian Friel. The festival will include theatre (headlining play ‘Making History’ by Brian Friel), music, talks and discussions, dramatic readings, dance, film and will take place in many of the city’s iconic historical sites.
  10. 1st Birthday Party Celebrations at Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, 15 August. Swim on down to Exploris to celebrate the aquarium’s first birthday since the re-opening last year. Strap on your pirate eye patch or your dazzling mermaid tail to be in with a chance to win the best-dressed competition.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit  www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.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. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

 

The Hedges Hotel: Hideaway at the Dark Hedges, Co. Antrim from £75pps

Hideaway at the Dark Hedges for two nights including B&B and one evening meal up to the value of £35. This three-star Georgian mansion is the perfect destination to stay and explore the area. The 7th Game of Thrones Door is conveniently at the Belltower Bar and Restaurant on the same site, located at Gracehill Golf Club. Offer valid until 31 August 2017.

 

Millbrook Lodge Hotel: Stay and Play, Co. Down from £70 per couple 

Stay and play with one night’s B&B and an evening meal at the three-star Millbrook Lodge Hotel, with nearby golf facilities at St Patrick’s Golf Club. Just a short distance from the scenic Mourne Mountains, Millbrook Lodge is a family owned hotel, where the charm of a beautiful Georgian building has been carefully integrated with modern comfort and amenities. Offer valid until 31 December 2017.

 

Cathcarts Lodge: Proms in the Park Weekend, Co. Fermanagh from £76pps

Four- star, Cathcarts Lodge, is offering a Proms in the Park weekend package from only £76 per person, based on six people sharing. This modern self-catering bungalow overlooks the scenic Lough Erne, and is only a 30-minute drive from Castle Coole, the venue for this year’s Proms in the Park event.  Offer valid for 6-8 September only.

 

All offers are subject to availability.  For further information visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Down

BuskFest is an international busking festival which takes place in Banbridge on Saturday 12th August. Now in its 14th year, the event attracts 6000+ people from across the globe to Banbridge Town Centre. The competition, which has a prize pot of £3000, runs from 1pm – 4.30pm and will culminate in an awards ceremony hosted by BBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean in Solitude Park from 4.30pm – 6pm.

Armagh

Once again it’s blues that’s on the agenda, this being the 7th year of the 7 Hills Blues Festival 10th to 13th August.  This annual celebration will feature over 50 bands at venues across Armagh, with some regular artists back alongside some great new performers. So save the dates and let’s get some blistering summer blues : best served chilled!

Fermanagh

This Saturday 12th August jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Booking essential.  (02866348855) Max. 14 per session. Meeting point: Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre (event taking place in Cuilcagh Mountain Park), This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Tyrone

The Clans of Ulster celebrates Lunása Spirit of Folk Festival on 12 August at Tullyhogue Fort, near Cookstown, from 11am-11pm.  The event is being hosted by The Clans of Ulster, and commemorates the ancient tradition of Lunása, which was celebrated all over Ireland, Scotland, and Europe.  It marks the end of summer and celebrates the harvest season, while honouring the role of the ancient Celtic ways.  It will include family fun, with a celebration of food, music, sport, and art. There will be plenty to see and do including visiting stalls from local food artisans and local crafts.  There is also a chance to participate in the Celtic warrior workshop, and see & learn about birds of prey with the NI School of Falconry.

Derry/Londonderry

Stendhal Festival is Northern Ireland’s biggest and best grass-roots music and arts festival.  With over 100 performances from the likes of Ash, The Magic Numbers, Sharon Shannon and Lisa McHugh taking place over August 11th and 12th at Ballymully Cottage Farm, Limavady, there is certainly plenty of musical variety as well as a dedicated family programme that caters for children and families of all ages.

Antrim

Allow qualified guides to take you on a leisurely ramble across Church Bay and into Mill Bay on Rathlin Island this Sunday 13th August.  Along the way discuss the island’s history, its people and its unique wildlife. You will be given plenty of opportunities to meet the local seal colony who bask along the shoreline and time to visit the bird sanctuary if you wish before returning to Ballycastle on the 4:15pm ferry.  The guide will meet you in Ballycastle at the ferry terminal at 11am and accompany you on the crossing.  Price of the tour (£10) does not include the ferry travel. The tour is wheelchair, child and dog friendly.

Belfast

Get ready for the free Twin Spires Complex Family Fun Day this Saturday 12th August.  There will be lots of free fun and games including Football Darts, Interactive Challenges, a Bungee Run, Toddler Zone and plenty of bouncy castles. Plus Magic George, Science Experiments, face painting and glitter tattoos free for all the family. There will also be a creation station for all little innovators and music plus lot of tasty treats are on offer. Save the date and don’t miss out on all the fun!

­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.

Explore your Creativity at Arts Night at North Down Museum 

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Come and explore your creative side on Friday, 11 August when North Down Museum opens its doors for a very special art event – Arts Night At The Museum.

Now in its third year, Arts Night is back giving everyone the opportunity to get a taste of what it feels like to make art – visitors can expect everything from sketching to clay work or just sit back and listen to some music!

Every nook and cranny of the historic museum building will be filled with arts activity to experience, participate in or observe. Explore the museum in a unique and unexpected way, Arts Night is an event for the whole family.

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton, said: “We are delighted to be hosting Arts Night at the Museum once again. This is a fantastic event which allows people to experience and try out all kinds of art activities. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the range of activities on offer so we would encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun.”

People are invited to be the artist, whether guided by professional artists, or by taking part in art activities so you can explore your own creativity. While you’re there, don’t forget to browse the museum’s many current exhibitions.

Admission is free for this event and for all activities. The café will be open on the evening, and there will be some great music to add to the vibrant atmosphere.  The event runs from 6pm to 9pm.  Find information on www.northdownmuseum.com or 028 9127 1200

What’s On in Causeway Coast and Glens

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New Horizon

Date:  5th – 11th August

Time: 10am – 19:30

Venue: University of Ulster,Coleraine

Contact: office@newhorizon.org.uk   Tel: 028 2955 7157

New Horizon has been running a refreshing ministry week at the Ulster University in Coleraine every summer since 1989. This Includes bible teaching, youth programme and evening celebrations.  2017 Theme: Through the Power of His Spirit

 

Heart of the Glens Festival

Date:  5th – 13th August

Time: various, see website

Venue:  Cushendall

Contact: cushendall@nacn.org   Tel: 028 2177 1378   www.glensfestival.com

2017 is the 27th anniversary of Heart of the Glens Festival one of the most successful community festivals in Northern Ireland. The programme of events is as varied and entertaining as ever with something for all the family.

The festival will include fireworks on Saturday 12th and throughout the week there will be the usual favourites including the Lurig Run, Vintage Family Fun Day, Workshops etc.

 

Ballycastle Junior Tennis Tournament

Date: 6th – 12th August

Time: various times daily

Venue: Mary Street Ballycastle

Contact: Carol.Nicholl@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 028 2076 3300

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.

 

Children’s Street Theatre

Date: 11th August

Time: 13.30pm at Station Square, Portrush and 16.00pm at the Crescent, Portstewart

Venue: see above

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

Part of the Council’s programme of free summer entertainment with Parky.

 

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Date:  11th August

Time: 14.00, pre-screening art workshop for 5-8yrs at 12.00 -13.30.

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

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

This charming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s 1964 classic novel remains a favourite fixture in family homes across the world. The journey of Charlie Bucket from finding his golden ticket to his adventurous tour around Willy Wonka’s world famous chocolate factory is one of pure delight. Running time: 1 hour 40 mins

 

One Night Only – Rodd Hogg and Fiddler Adam

Date: 11th August

Time: 21.00

Venue: Dark Hedges Estate- The Hedges Hotel, Stranocum

Contact: info@gracehillhouse.com   Tel: 028 2075 1209

Join Rodd Hogg and Fiddler Adam for an exceptional night of entertainment. We are delighted to bring together this local duo for one night only at the Hedges Hotel. Be amazed, be amused, be there.
Country DJ and late bar after the show until 01:30am

First release of tickets only £10 per head (excl. online booking fee)
Book at
https://events.glistrr.com/darkhedgesestate/e/7

 

Stendhal Festival

Date: 11th & 12th August 2017

Time: See website and social media

Venue: Ballymully Cottage Farm, Limavady

Contact: press@stendhalfestival.com   Tel: 07834 163 108

Stendhal Festival of Art, a multi award winning event offers visitors of all ages an enriching artistic programme in a stunning scenic location with camping available. Tickets available at   www.Stendhalfestival.com

 

Ballycastle Food Tour

Date: 12th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: meet at Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre at the Harbour.

Contact: northcoastwalking@gmail.com     Tel no: 028 2076 2024   Mob: 07718 276 612

A gem of a tour’ according to those who’ve once been on it. We wander around Ballycastle, noticing odd little nooks and corners, learning how important this place was and discovering that, through our food and creativity, it is now (according to the Sunday Times, no less!) the Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland. I agree with them completely – let me show why. Booking essential.

 

Causeway Market

Date: 12th, 19th and 26th 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

 

Damhead Miniature Railway

Date: 12th 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.

 

Little Red Riding Hood

Date: 12th August

Time: 12.00 and 14.00

Venue: Drumceatt Square, Limavady

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

A traditional marionette show with music and show effects to enchant young and old. Free outdoor event.

 

Coastal Foraging in Cushendall

Date: 13th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: Cushendall Beach

Contact: Tel: 028 9046 3126

Join Ulster Wildlife for National Marine Week as Forage Ireland’s Dermot Hughes takes us on a coastal foraging walk in Cushendall. Find out what’s good to eat on our shore…and what isn’t. Booking is essential – Under 16s must be accompanied by responsible adult
Rathlin Sports Day

Date: 13th August

Time: 13.30 -16.30

Venue: Rathlin Island

Contact: rdca@btconnect.com   Tel no: 0282076 0079   Mob no: 07850 327 456

A family fun day with bouncy castle, face painting and more.  Ferry is booking essential.

 

Pirate Day

Date: 13th August

Time: 12.00-17.00 approx

Venue: Rosepark Farm, Ballymoney

Contact: rosepark_farm @hotmail.com    Tel no: 07961 124 136

Family fun day with pirate games and crafts in the party barn and live music by gift of the gab Fancy dress optional. Facepainting and BBQ available on the day (additional charges

 

Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail

Date: 14th 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.

 

Ballycastle Senior Tennis Tournament

Date: 14th-20th 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.

 

The Little Yellow Bear

Date: 15th August

Time: 12.00 -14.00

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

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

A magical event for tots aged 3-6 years and their families about the realm of dreams. Children can also bring their Teddies and meet little yellow Bear.

 

Children’s Summer Street Theatre with Grant Goldie

Date: 16th August 2017

Time:  13:30 – 16:00

Venue: Amphitheatre, Portrush & The Cresent  Porstewart

Taking place at two outdoor venues over the course of the afternoon, Grant Goldie brings his amazing one man show to Portrush and Portstewart. Come along and watch his feats of juggling and mesmerizing manipulation.

 

Children’ Street Theatre

Date:  18th 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: 18th 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.

 

The North West Pipe Band Competition, Portrush

Date: 18th – 19th 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.

 

Party on the Pitch

Date: 18th -19th 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.

 

Tom Thumb

Date: 19th 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:  19th 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

Date: 19th 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.

 

Bushmills Food Tour

Date: 18th & 19th

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.

 

Causeway coast Truck Fest 2017

Date: 20th   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!

Villains Well Tuned in Ward Park this Sunday

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Grab a picnic and head to Ward Park Bandstand this Sunday 13th August for an afternoon of folk-blues originals performed by Tony Villiers and The Villains.

Tony Villiers and The Villains are popular for their unique blend of folk-blues originals which comprise of vocalist plus guitarist Paul Meehan, percussionist Aidan McGillian and bassist Kevin Mahoney. With influences ranging from Bob Dylan, Leadbelly and Jimmy Reed to Lou Reed, Hank Williams and Woody Guthrie, you can enjoy an afternoon of top class live music as part of the Summer Music in the Park programme this August.

Grab your friends, family and a picnic blanket and head down to Ward Park to listen to great tunes on a Sunday afternoon between 3-5pm.

This is a FREE event.  Please note that Ward Park is an alcohol-free zone. All events are weather dependent and therefore subject to change. This year’s music programme is in association with Open House Festival.

Lookout in local press each week for details on each artist or for more information phone Bangor Visitor Information Centre on 028 9127 0069 or visit visitardsandnorthdown.com

DIRTY DUSTING Starring May McFettridge

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 ‘One of the funniest shows you will see this year’

 

Wednesday 13 September: The Ardhowen, Enniskillen

Thursday 14 September & Friday 15 September: Millennium Forum, Derry

Saturday 16 September: Alley Theatre, Strabane

Tuesday 19 September – Saturday 23 September: Grand Opera House, Belfast

Tuesday 26 September: The Braid, Ballymena

Wednesday 27 September & Thursday 28 September: Market Place, Armagh

Friday 29 September: Strule Arts Centre, Omagh

Saturday 30 September: The Great Hall, Downshire, Downpatrick

Tuesday 3 October: The Old Courthouse, Antrim

Wednesday 4 October: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

Thursday 5 October: The Burnavon, Cookstown

Friday 6 October: McNeill Theatre, Larne

Saturday 7 October: Island Hall, Lisburn

 

Three elderly cleaning ladies start up a telephone sex line.

 

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 – some more than others, mind you.

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.

A searing indictment of ageism in the 21st Century heavily disguised as a hysterical, laugh-out-loud, heart-warming comedy

Dirty Dusting premiered at the Customs House, South Shields in February 2003 and hasn’t stopped since. Two runs at Newcastle Theatre Royal were followed by tours of Scotland, England and Ireland, including a month-long run at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin. It has returned to Scotland and Ireland on several occasions since, toured New Zealand and Australia and continues to tour the UK on an almost continual basis

The Emerald Armada Next Up At Lough Lively!

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Belfast foursome The Emerald Armada will be performing at the next concert in the series of The Lough Lively Sessions which is taking place at Portico, Portaferry on Friday 11 August.

 

The alt Irish folk group are hugely popular thanks to their infectious hook laden memories, stunning four-part harmonies and high-octane live performances.

The four brothers in arms find their heartbeat in an enchanting Bodhran drum and percussion set up with driving acoustics and punchy bass. Drawing inspiration from the sea, friendship and the small hours of the morning you can expect the boys to deliver a toe tapping set of songs from the heart.

Book now for an evening of superb entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Portico.

Tickets cost £10 and are on sale now  at www.visitardsandnorthdown.com or www.porticoards.com. Show time is 7.30pm.

Still to come at the Lough Lively Sessions in Portico are; The 4 of Us, Saffyre and Rapparees. Running until October, the lively music events are supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and The Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

From ‘Streets of London’ to Main Street, Bellaghy: Ralph McTell to play Seamus Heaney HomePlace

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One of the UK’s great storytellers, Ralph McTell, is set to play a one-off, intimate gig at Seamus Heaney HomePlace on Sunday 5 November.

Currently celebrating over 50 years on the road, Ralph is a prolific and gifted songwriter known for his virtuoso guitar style.  He made his debut in 1968 with the album ‘Eight Frames a Second’ and in 1974 the release of ‘Streets of London’ earned him an Ivor Novello Award. The song went to Number 2 on the UK Singles Chart in 1974 and has since been covered by more than 200 performers.

Speaking ahead of his latest trip to Northern Ireland, Ralph said:

“I am a huge admirer of Seamus Heaney and ever since I visited HomePlace last year I have hoped to perform a concert there.  I regard it as an honour and a privilege to have been invited.”

 

Tickets for Ralph McTell at Seamus Heaney HomePlace are £20 and are on sale now from www.seamusheaneyhome.com

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