A Night of Athletic Boxing

Bangor Abbey Boxing Academy (BABA) is organising what promises to be an exhilarating night made up of approximately 10 bouts in the ring on Saturday 3 March.

 

Marine Court Hotel in Bangor will play host to the athletic competitors who will be travelling from across Ireland in the cross community event in a bid to raise funds towards the Academy and the four nominated charities that Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Robert Adair, chose at the start of his term: Beyond the Battlefield, Decorum NI, Helping Alopecia Trust and Homestart.

Head Coach of BABA, Sandy Rice, is excited about the event and is urging people to purchase their tickets sooner rather than later due to the highly anticipated evening of entertainment, “the guys involved are looking forward to taking part, especially as the night is raising funds for good causes including our Academy. BABA means a lot to many people, and the passion these guys have runs over and above the involvement of the sport but to their dedication in ensuring facilities such as ours remain open and working.”

BABA, recently relocated to SERC in Bangor, is a hub for people of all ages and provides facilities where young boxers can really hone their skills. For many of the members it has been a place of refuge, giving them direction and focus in life. Places like BABA rely on funds raised via events such as these.

Mayor Adair was delighted when Sandy Rice approached him about organising the event, “I was thrilled when Sandy got in touch about the event. I was already familiar with the work Sandy does with the Academy as he had been awarded for his service in the field of Voluntary Community Work in last year’s Civic Awards. I myself am excited to be part of the event and so pleased for the charities, and the Academy, who will benefit from the proceeds of the night. Be sure to book your ticket soon as it is already proving very popular.”

Whether you are a boxing fan or not this evening is sure to have you enthralled in the fight. Come along and support your local club and your local charities.

Doors open 7.30pm for 8pm. Tickets £10, available from Bangor Town Hall, Bangor Abbey Boxing Academy, and the Mayor’s charities, or by calling 07985 476 414.

 

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this Half Term

Down

Calling all little superheroes this Thursday 15th and Friday 16th February! Join The Outlet in Banbridge for an action packed half term, where kids will get the chance to help protect the universe against evil arch enemies by designing and building their very own superhero using lego-bricks.  Children aged 5 – 11 years old are invited to create their favourite superheroes by visiting the free craft workshop, where they will go home with an official superhero certificate for demonstrating their super powers and completing their model (1-hour slots available from 11.00 am – 2pm and 3pm – 5pm).

Armagh

Enjoy a free day at Navan Fort’s Straw Craft Workshop on Sunday February 18th where you and your family can learn about the traditions of straw craft and participate in craft making activities. Admission is free!

Fermanagh

Join the Marble Arch Caves staff this Saturday 17th February to hear about the hydrology of these fascinating caves while watching the Owenbrean River turn a luminous shade of green. Dye Tracing is a method used by hydrologists to track and trace the flow of underground streams and rivers. Learn about the importance of dye tracing in the field of geology and the different equipment used to carry out these exciting experiments. Admission is free but booking is essential.

Tyrone

The Burnavon in Cookstown will host the Bump, Baby and Beyond, Pregnancy and Baby Fair on Saturday 17th February.  This popular annual event hosted by Gold Surestart will be of interest to parents and family members in the antenatal period and beyond into family life. Visitors will be made welcome to browse various information stalls, receive midwifery advice and support, gain details of baby massage courses and other relevant antenatal and postnatal courses. There will also be the opportunity to view  nursery goods, baby wear and a number of handmade craft tables.  Come along for a browse and friendly chat.

Derry/Londonderry

Collapsing the Distance: With Damian Smyth, Matthew Warwick, Frank Ferguson, Nelson McCausland, Carol Baraniuk and John Erskine, Seamus Heaney Homeplace Bellaghy, Friday 16th February.  In his collection of essays Finders Keepers, Seamus Heaney wrote a heartfelt essay called ‘Burns’s Art Speech’ detailing his love for the poetry of Robert Burns, his belief in the power of words and poetry to connect rather than divide and the joy of language found in Ulster Scots, Gaelic and the everyday colloquial phrases of Ulster. Inspired by this essay, this mini-festival will celebrate the work of Robert Burns, the legacy of Ulster Scots and the power of common speech to provide a positive viewpoint on Ulster’s history and culture.

Antrim

From the creative team that brought last year’s stunning production of Annie to the Theatre at The Mill stage comes a new special Youth Production of one of the most enduring shows of all time. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colours. Wednesday 14th to Sunday 18th February.

Belfast

This half term break? Join HMS Caroline for a weekend filled with fun family activities! Journey around the ship and explore the historic spaces with Tom the Cat children’s trail. Join Bricks4kidz and Clayrazy in the Learning Room, where you can discover how to build your very own creations. Facilitated activities are available Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th February from 11am – 3pm. Normal admission applies; opening hours 10.00am.

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.

CHRIS JONES LIVE AT THE MARKET PLACE

Bluegrass, Jazz and Comedy Drama are all on the bill for the start of March at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre.

C21 Theatre Company return on Thursday 1 March with ‘May The Road Rise Up’, a fast-paced, comedy rollercoaster about a woman who resolves to live life to the full no matter what it flings at her. When Mia’s boyfriend leaves her, she falls into debt and loses her job, but she still stays cheerful throughout our recessionary times. Mia is aided and abetted by her BFF, wedding singer, Paddy, who can sniff out a party at a hundred yards and, when it comes to acting disabled in the benefits office, he makes Liam Neeson look like an amateur! Then, one day, Mia lands a new job, driving round Belfast’s busy streets, and thinks to herself surely life is on the up. Little does she know, she could be about to get closer to those streets than she ever imagined…

Then on Friday 2 March, Chris Jones & The Night Drivers take to the stage, with some of the most distinctively elegant music to be heard anywhere today, and they’re delivering it with a unique blend of dry wit, emotional authenticity and broad humour that’s won the loyalty of a growing number of fans. Steve Martin referred to the Night Drivers as ‘some of the best players in bluegrass! Chris Jones’ voice is there with the great masters.’ Chris’ range of talents took centre stage at the IBMA’s Awards Show in 2007, where he earned both a Song Of The Year award, and the organization’s Broadcaster Of The Year trophy. The occasion marked the first time that both music and industry awards have gone to a single person.

Lovers of Jazz are in for a treat on Saturday 3 March, with a performance by jazz guitar legend Jim Mullen, unquestionably one of the all-time greats in the history of the genre. A five times winner of ‘Best Guitarist’ in the British Jazz Awards and recipient of a lifetime achievement award in 2015, Jim has worked with US jazz stars including Mose Allison, Jimmy Smith, Jimmy Witherspoon and Teddy Edwards. With his original and visceral guitar style, Jim will be joined by The Ronnie Greer Organ Band, featuring the complementary guitar playing of Ronnie, Scott Flanigan on Hammond organ, and Dominic Mullan on drums.

Tickets can be booked through the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre 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.

 

Music In The Chamber – Runabay

The next concert in the series of Music In The Chamber concerts at Bangor Castle, is taking place on Friday 9 March and will feature the hugely popular alt-folk band Runabay.

 

Runabay are six musicians from the Glens of Antrim who through their passion for harmony and melody have been writing and recording since 2014.

The band are at the forefront of fresh, new music in Northern Ireland, a sound which has undeniably been shaped by the beautiful coastline which surrounds the Glens of Antrim and is felt through the swooping melodies and poignant lyrics. The band produce a mature sound that leaves the listener hanging on to the intricate guitar riffs, harmonies and haunting cello.

With uplifting melodies, complex instrumentation, their music will appeal to fans of artists like José Gonzalez and Fleet. Don’t miss this chance to catch the band in the beautiful surroundings of The Chamber room at Bangor Castle. Show time is 8pm.

Tickets cost £10 and are on sale now at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown. Tickets can also be purchased from North Down Museum or any of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Visitor Information Centres.

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including beautiful B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week to help you plan a short break.

 

1 Night B&B, Marine Court Hotel, Bangor from £100 per room.

Beautifully situated on the seafront of Bangor in County Down, the Marine Court Hotel has superb views over Belfast Lough with Bangor Marina in the foreground. Enjoy a one night bed and breakfast stay in this superb three-star hotel, offer based on two people sharing. To book call 028 9145 1100. Offer available until 31 March.

 

Family Spring Break, Armagh City Hotel, Co. Armagh from £218 per family.

Enjoy a great family (two adults & two children) spring break at the three-star Armagh City Hotel for two nights. Offer includes full breakfast each morning, a £50 meal voucher to use in any of the hotel’s food outlets, and a family ticket to either the Armagh Planetarium or Navan Centre & Fort. To book call 028 37 518888. Offer available until 6 April.

 

Walking Break, Mahons Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £99 per person. 

Situated in the heart of Irvinestown and only a short trip to Enniskillen and Omagh, the three-star Mahons Hotel in the heartland of Fermanagh and the beautiful lake district. This means beautiful country walks and watersports. Offer includes two nights B&B, one four-course dinner and two walks guided by Joe Mahon. One walk in Necarne Castle and one around Castle Archdale on the shores of Lough Erne. To book call 028 6862 1656. Offer available 31 March.

 

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

Rob Brydon for the Forum

The Millennium Forum has just announced that hugely popular comedian, Rob Brydon, will make his debut at the cityside venue on Saturday 29th September.  Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Fri 9th Feb at 10am and are priced at £31.50.

 

Rob Brydon is perhaps best known for the television shows Gavin and Stacey, Would I Lie To You? and The Trip as well as Marion and Geoff, Human Remains, Little Britain, The Rob Brydon Show, Best of Men, Gangster Granny and Q.I.  His film work includes The Huntsman : Winter’s War, Cinderella and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Earlier this year in London’s West End he starred opposite Sir Kenneth Branagh in The Painkiller.  His other theatre credits include Future Conditional at The Old Vic and A Chorus of Disapproval at The Harold Pinter Theatre.

I Am Standing Up represents Rob Brydon’s first stand up tour since his sell out national tour and West End run of 2009.

Rob Brydon performs at the Millennium Forum on Sat 29th September.  Tickets go on sale at 10am tomorrow, Fri 9th Feb.  Telephone 71 264455 or visit millenniumforum.co.uk for bookings.

Family things to do in Northern Ireland this half-term

Looking for something to do to entertain the kids this half term? Discover NI have put together this list of 10 family friendly events happening in Northern Ireland during the mid-term week (12-17 February) to keep children entertained and parents happy.

Toddlers take over the museum, Bangor, 16 February

As part of the playful museums month, North Down Museum will be hosting ‘toddlers take over the museum’. The building will become a fun and exciting place for children aged 3-5 years old. This is a chance for your child to experience arts and crafts, storytelling and puppet shows put on just for them. Free event.

X Factor Live Tour 2018, Belfast, 16 February

The X Factor Live Tour 2018 kicks off and for the first time ever the audience will choose their own winner. The top artists confirmed to go on the tour are Rak-Su, Grace Davies, Kevin Davy White, Lloyd Macey, The Cutkelvins, Matt Linnen and Sean and Conor Price.The X Factor Live Tour has thrilled more than three million people since it began 13 years ago, making it one of the UK’s most successful annual arena tours .To book tickets visit SSEArenaBelfast.com

Winter Woolly Walk, Newcastle, 17 February

Wrap up warm and come along to Cancer Fund for Children’s wonderful Winter Woolly Walk at Tollymore Forest Park. Walkers are free to stroll leisurely or can walk as briskly as they wish, it’s all about having fun together as a family, getting out in the fresh air and enjoying the wonderful wintry scenery. Refreshments for adults and children will be provided at the end of each walk as well as some fun family activities. To sign up phone 028 9080 5599 or e-mail fundraising@cancerfundforchildren.com

NI Science Festival, Belfast 15-25 February

With over 180 events across over 50 venues, the NI Science Festival offers a stimulating and wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These events present some of the best scientists from NI and beyond to discuss their work, cutting-edge research and what the future might hold. During the day, the festival offers a range of workshops, talks and interactive activities for young people and parents. Full festival programme at NIScienceFestival.com

Dusty’s Northern Ireland Puddle Jumping Championships, Castle Espie, 16-18 February

Join Dusty the duck by grabbing your wellies, getting outside and having a splashing time at Dusty’s Northern Ireland Puddle Jumping Championships this February half term. Bring friends and family and see who can make the biggest, craziest splash as measured by special splash-o-meters. The Championships are open to children no matter what age or ability. U105 will be there each day between entertaining the crowds.

Museum of the Moon, Belfast, 10 February – 4 March

Museum of the Moon is a new touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram coming to W5 .Measuring seven metres in diameter, the moon features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. This installation is free to view with admission to W5.To book tickets visit W5Online.com.

The TQ Giants Trail, Belfast, 17 February

A family friendly trail where you will be provided with a treasure map and lots of clues. Spend the morning exploring Titanic Quarter searching for industrial giants, discover how they have played a huge role in the Titanic Quarter’s maritime history, and the one thing that links them all. Prizes to be won. To book visit VisitBelfast.com

George’s Marvellous Medicine, Belfast, 13-17 February

Most grandmothers are lovely, kind, helpful old ladies. Not George’s Grandmother. She likes to gobble up slugs and bugs, and is always telling George what to do. Following the success of Fantastic Mr Fox, The Twits and The Witches, Curve’s magnificent new co-production with Rose Theatre Kingston promises to be yet another hugely imaginative and entertaining stage adaptation coming to The Grand Opera House bursting with growing grannies, feathery farm animals and bags of frothbuggling family fun. To book visit GOH.co.uk.

O Duo, Bangor, 17 February

See percussionists O Duo whizz around the stage as you have never seen before in this exciting family concert. The pair perform an invigorating mix of classical music alongside some popular classics from TV and film on a huge array of percussion including marimba, vibraphone, glockenspiel, drum kit, African and Brazilian drums and a multitude of handheld percussion. To book tickets visit TicketSource.co.uk.

Spotlight Talk, Newtownards,

Join Castle Espie’s aviculture team to find out more about their range of collection birds, which are kept on-site and inspire any young nature enthusiast. The close encounters area is one of the most popular attractions of the reserve, offering visitors the opportunity to feed rare and exotic birds. To book a space call 028 9187 4146.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break for any season in Northern Ireland, visit DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

Celtic Mindfulness – discover your inner calmness  

The amazing Celtic Mindfulness event is making a return to the Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh on the 24th & 25th 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 £42.50 for a Saturday Pass, £22.50 of for a Sunday pass, or buy a ticket for both days for just £52.50.  Booking is essential on www.visitarmagh.com/celticmindfulness

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

 

UAC Easter Stages Rally 2018

The Ulster Automobile Club (UAC), organisers of the UAC Easter Stages Rally are pleased to announce they have received significant support from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Hamill, launches the UAC Easter Rally Stages with Anais Foster and Callum Boyd (Fairview Primary School).

This new event will take place on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 of April with the start and centralised service area situated in Ballyclare, adjacent to the Sixmile Leisure Centre. The two-day rally is the second round of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship in 2018.

The first six stages of the event on Friday, located close to the rally headquarters in the Dunadry Inn, Templepatrick will start around lunchtime. These classic stages are on fast flowing tarmac roads which will present challenges for all competitors and provide superb opportunities for spectators to enjoy closed road rallying. Just before dusk, the rally will return to Ballyclare for the overnight halt.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Hamill, commented: “It is fantastic news that we are working in partnership with the Ulster Automobile Club. I am excited that this new event is coming to the Borough and I hope everyone is geared up for this action packed weekend.”

Nigel Hughes, Clerk of the Course commented: “We are delighted with the terrific support from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and the partnership which is developing with them. We are looking for a large entry and lots of spectators, to make this spectacle just after Easter, a roaring success and of substantial benefit to the local economy”.

The uniqueness of this event will see a separate rally starting on Saturday morning from Ballyclare. Additional competitors will join those who participated on Friday, to contest a further six classic rally stages, focussing around Broughshane and finishing in Ballymena.

Pre-event scrutiny will take place on Thursday 5 April at Sixmile Leisure Centre, which will provide an opportunity for rally fans to see the cars up close.

Regulations for the event are now available from http://www.uaceasterstages.com and www.ulsterautomobileclub.com

Peter Corry Returns to Theatre at The Mill with his new show

Peter Corry is no stranger to Theatre at The Mill and we are delighted to have him back with his brand new show Call of the Celts! on Thursday 22 February at 7.45pm.

This new show will take you on a journey through some of the all-time favourite Celtic classics performed by one the finest voices to come out of Northern Ireland. Featuring classics such as Will Ye Go Lassie Go, The Puca Beast, Caledonia, Song for Ireland and Carrickfergus.

Peter will be joined on stage with his band and dancers for this emotional, fun packed and energetic show. Tickets from Box Office T: 028 9034 0202 or theatreatthemill.com