Month: March 2019

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

By

Down

The Ards International Guitar Festival is back with a bang from 3rd to 7th April, with a fresh new programme of guitar inspired gigs, free fringe events, guitar clinics with industry professionals and an exhibition In Your Town featuring Rory Gallagher memorabilia.  Expect a jam-packed line-up of, blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical and contemporary music for guitar aficionados across the borough.

Armagh

Frock Around The Clock Fairs announce a beautiful new venue for 2019 – Brownlow House, a stunning country manor overlooking the scenic surroundings of Lurgan Park. The first event at Brownlow House will be The Spring Fling Fair on Saturday 6th April. This event will feature 30 fantastic stalls of original handmade, vintage and holistic loveliness including fashion, home, jewellery, sweet treats & artisan food, art, crafts and gifts.

Fermanagh

The Suffragettes, Scholars, Sisters and Spies Exhibition comes to an end on the 6th April at Enniskillen Castle. Discover what life was like for women at this pivotal time in national and international “herstory:” from the war to winning the vote. The unique selection of artefacts on display reminds us of the valuable contributions made by women to society, the home and working life. 

Tyrone

Movie Magic at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown  this Saturday 6th April is a family show from the talented staff and pupils of Mid Ulster School of Music. The show celebrates popular movies such as ‘the greatest showman’ ‘mamma mia’ And ‘the wizard of oz, plus many more surprises.  Tickets available directly from the Box Office at the Burnavon Theatre.

Derry

Heaney HomePlace Bellaghy is the venue for The World’s Wife with Bronagh Gallagher, Susan Lynch and special guests this Saturday 6th April. In conjunction with the visit by Carol Ann Duffy, HomePlace are delighted to present this staged reading of arguably her most famous collection of poetry.  Behind every famous man is a great woman, and from the quick-tongued Mrs Darwin to the lascivious Frau Freud, from the adoring Queen Kong to the long-suffering wife of the Devil himself, each one steps from her counterpart’s shadow to tell her side of the story in this irresistible collection. 

Antrim

Larne Carnegie Free Library was officially opened on 2nd April 1906 by Colonel J M McCalmont, M.P. Join in the fun at the Family Fun Day to celebrate on Saturday 6th April with Edwardian themed activities including a quilting demonstration by Loose Thread Quilters as part of their exhibition ‘Around the World in 40 Quilts’, a ‘Make and Take’ lavender sachet craft session, walkabout entertainers and a magician (12.00pm-2.00pm), hula hooping, teddy bear clinic and doll hospital, arts and crafts, dress up, games, activity sheets and more.  This a free drop in event with activities for the whole family!

Belfast

Belvoir Seniors will wow you with their interpretation of the smash hit Broadway and West End Musical Legally Blonde. Based on the best loved movie, it follows beautiful and popular sorority sister Elle Woods who loves to be pampered and is passionate about pink. When she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner Huntington III for a more serious girlfriend she puts down the credit cards and picks up the books. Packing up her trusty pooch, Bruiser, she bags herself a place at the prestigious Harvard Law School to try and win him back. With the support of her new friends she learns that you can be both smart and fashionable.  2nd to 6th April daily.

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.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

By

Northern Ireland boasts an irresistible collection of 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.

  • One night B&B, Westville Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £138 per room per night.

Perfectly situated in the heart of Enniskillen’s waterside historic quarter, The Westville Hotel is a cultured destination which offers contemporary, boutique style accommodation, including an award-winning Terrace restaurant, beautifully spacious and comfortable rooms, a stylish, in-house cocktail WV Bar matched with the warmest, welcoming service. This offer includes a 3 course dinner and breakfast the following morning based on two persons sharing. To book call 028 6632 0333. Offer available until 21st April 2019. 

  • One night B&B, The Roe Park Hotel, Derry-Londonderry from £134 per night

The Roe Park Resort is one of Northern Ireland’s premiere golf and spa resorts. Overlooking its own stunning 18 hole golf course and set amidst the gorgeous surroundings of the Roe Valley Country Park, this 4 star luxury hotel boasts 118 stylish en-suite rooms that blend the charm of a country house estate with the modern luxuries and conveniences you’d expect from a 4-star luxury hotel.  This offer includes a two night bed & breakfast plus one evening meal. To book call 028 7772 2222. Offer available until 21st April 2019.

  • One Night B&B, The Silverbirch Hotel, Co. Tyrone from £45 per person

With an enviable reputation for quality and a professional, friendly service, this award winning family owned hotel located in Omagh, in the footsteps of the Sperrin Mountains and Gortin Lakes provides an ideal base from which to explore the area. The Silverbirch Hotel is perfect for discovering Tyrone & The Sperrins with lots to see & do nearby with highlights including the Ulster American Folk Park, Sperrin Mountains, Gortin Forest Park, An Creggan and Todds Leap.  Offer includes one overnight stay with four course dinner and breakfast the following morning. Price based per person. To book call 028 8224 2520. Offer available until 21st April 2019.

10 Exciting Things to do in NI next week!

By

  1. Ards International Guitar Festival, Newtownards, 3-7 April. Back with a bang for 2019, the Festival features a fresh new programme of gigs, fringe events, guitar clinics with industry professionals and the In Your Town exhibition of Rory Gallagher memorabilia. The jam-packed line-up includes Winnipeg-born, Cork-based Ariel Posen, classical virtuoso Gary Ryan and contemporary music from Ali Todd, Mike Dawes and Shane Hennessy, amongst others.  You’ll also find a screening of the legendary Metallica documentary Some Kind of Monster and George Lowden in conversation with special guests.
  2. NI Judo Open, Derry – Londonderry, 6-7 April.  This year the NI Judo Open takes place in the Foyle Arena.  With the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in gripping distance, exciting showcase entries are likely from all levels of competitors.  Entrants are expected from Northern Ireland, GB and across Europe, so if you’re thinking of competing it’s the perfect time to test your skills as recreational and elite competitors share the Tatami together.
  3. Rhythm of the Dance Derry-Londonderry, 3 April. Enjoy the 20th anniversary tour of Rhythm of the Dance, which has already thrilled five million fans across fifty countries. The two-hour extravaganza contains a wealth of talent performing an exciting trip through hundreds of years of Irish dance and music, featuring 22 award-winning World and Irish dance champions. Dazzling costume changes, inspiring dances and live vocalists are all complemented by a top traditional band of multi-instrumentalists and a sensational sound and light show.
  4. Cherishing Mythology – Armagh Art Club, Armagh, 1-6 April. Take a journey through mythology and absorb the many myths and legends familiar to all, with this engaging and delightful exhibition. As part of the Home of St Patrick Festival, the Armagh Arts Biennial Exhibition showcases a variety of skills and techniques from individual artists who use a variety of media to portray their chosen myths, opening up an inspirational world of make-believe and imagination interwoven with threads of reality.    
  5. The World’s Wife, Magherafelt, 6April.  In conjunction with a visit to Seamus Heaney HomePlace by the UK’s Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, this is a staged reading from arguably her most famous collection of poetry. Enjoy an evening with a selection from The World’s Wife, read by two of Ireland’s best actors – Bronagh Gallagher and Susan Lynch.  With original commissioned music performed by Ursula Burns, the untold stories behind the greatest fairytales, myths and legends will make this an unforgettable evening.
  6. The Painted Lady, Belfast, 4 -5 April.  Accidental Theatre presents Rob Holloway’s play depicting a brief encounter between two lost souls. Dan has run away from his life to an Irish nature reserve where he has taken a job researching butterflies.  One morning he stumbles across Kimberley who is waking from a hangover in a pair of heels and a cocktail dress after another disastrous night out with her controlling boyfriend. Both characters are close to giving up on life but for some reasons their paths have crossed…
  7. Dubshed 2019, Lisburn, 6-7 April. Head down to the Eikon Exhibition Centre for one of the largest car shows in Ireland, offering a wide variety of car-based entertainment.  This is a perfect family day out with many attractions for all ages such as Show and Shine, Rallycross, Drag Strip, Auto-testing, Scrap-A-Jap, car wash and many more. With show cars from across the UK and Ireland on display, there is free parking and unlimited outdoor space for showing your car so no pre-application is required.
  8. Ulster Orchestra – Saint Saens’ Egyptian, Derry-Londonderry, 4 April. Saint-Saëns was a habitual traveller with a particular love for North Africa. Performed by the Ulster Orchestra featuring talented soloist, Louis Schwizgebel, the delightful Fifth Piano Concerto earned its nickname not only because it was written on one of the composer’s many holidays in Luxor, but also for its references to exotic musical traditions.  The concert also features Elgar’s First Symphony, premiered to a rapturous response in 1908, with a slow movement that is counted amongst his most beautiful writing. 
  • Benidorm Live, Belfast, 1-6 April.  The official world premiere of smash-hit comedy Benidorm brings sunshine and smiles to Belfast in the debut stage production of the popular ITV show. The award-winning comedy has racked up over a decade of all-inclusive hilarity, following the ensemble cast of holidaymakers and staff for ten series since 2007.  Laugh along to an all-new set of Alicante escapades as the characters swap sangria for the stage – after a quick spruce up at the Blow ‘n’ Go!

Market on the Square, Newtownards, 6 April. The bustling Market takes over the beautifully restored Market House and spills out onto the Square on the first Saturday of the month from April to December. Welcoming both tourists and locals alike, a visit to the indoor / outdoor Market is an exhilarating experience.  Enjoy top quality hot and cold food produce, original art and unique designer crafts with children’s activities and live music thrown into the mix for a great day out.

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

Basement Jaxx, Hothouse Flowers and more confirmed for Stendhal

By

Stendhal Festival has revealed the first musical acts who will be taking to the stage at this year’s installment of the Limavady based, multi-award winning music and arts festival.

Critically acclaimed and globally renowned DJ duo, Basement Jaxx will be headlining on Saturday August 17th while Friday August 16th will see Hothouse Flowers take to the Stendhal Stage for headlining duties.

Also on the bill for Stendhal 2019 is a host of phenomenal talents sourced from all over Ireland, the UK and the rest of the world, including; David Keenan, The Lost Brothers, Roe, Mary Coughlan, Ryan Vail and Elma Orkestra, Hunkpapa, Malojian, Amy Montgomery, Marty Mone, Sugarwolf, Cherym, Gemma Bradley, The Swingtime Starlets, Cooks But We’re Chefs, People that listen to the Sky, Blackbird and Crow, Stone Jets, Atticus, Son of the Hound, Bouts, Mob Wife, Sick Love, Transpacifica, BLXXD, I AM MUIR and Molly Hogg

With lots more announcements to come, Ross Parkhill, Director of Stendhal Festival said; “We are really excited how our line-up for 2019 is shaping up.

“Already we have an incredibly strong programme that is varied, eclectic and of a really high standard and we still have a lot more to announce.

He added: “Basement Jaxx will have the whole of Karma Valley bouncing on the Saturday, there is no question about that. They have a huge catalogue of really well known tunes that will no doubt be a phenomenal way to bring the curtain down on what we are anticipating to be another stand out year for the event.

Ross continued: “Hothouse flowers are one of the best loved bands to come out of Ireland and have been revered for a generation and they will certainly be a massive crowd pleaser at the festival this August.”

Ross concluded: “These acts are of course backed up by an incredibly strong line-up right throughout this first announcement. We have several acts form the Republic of Ireland who are making big noises across the border, wonderful acts from South Africa and The USA and as always we have the crème de la crème of our very own Northern Irish talent ready and waiting to steal the show.

“We will be announcing our second and final raft of musical acts and a whole lot more before the end of April, so there is still plenty more to come on what is already one of our finest, if not our very finest line-up to date.”

For more information and tickets for Stendhal Festival, visit stendhalfestival.com

Get ready to Rock n Roll at the Market Place Theatre Armagh

By

Following their sell out show at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre last year, Northern Ireland’s only 1950s/60s Rock ’n’ Roll band, The Soda Popz, make a welcome return on Saturday 6 April.

Paying tribute to some of the best-loved hits from that fabulous era, this seven-piece, fully costumed band, take you on a nostalgic trip back to the dance hall days with this action-packed, toe-tapping show that has been wowing audiences all over the country!

Featuring the songs of Johnny Cash, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Connie Francis and many more… prepare yourself for an uplifting night of timeless classics for all ages! So fellas, slick back your hair, ladies, put on your best red lippy and rock around the clock. 

‘Classic Rock USA’ comes to the Market Place on 11 April, a heart-pumping, drum-beating, pulsating rock extravaganza featuring over twenty-five hits from Bryan Adams, Jon Bon Jovi and the ‘Boss’ himself, Bruce Springsteen.

You will be taken on an epic journey of all things rock, as the totally awesome cast and band bring down the house with the very best from these three great artists including, ‘Born To Run’, ‘Thunder Road’, ‘Everything I Do’, ‘Summer Of 69’, ‘Living On A Prayer’, ‘You Give Love A Bad Name’, ‘Bed Of Roses’, and many more. Get ready to rock out and party on! 

Tickets are available from the Theatre Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre. 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.

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

By

Northern Ireland boasts an irresistible collection of 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.

  • Two Night Fun Family Fitness Break, Marine Court Hotel, Co. Down from £230 per family

Beautifully situated on the seafront overlooking Bangor marina, the Marine Court Hotel offers spacious bedrooms, the Oceanis health and fitness club, Nelson’s Bar and Bar Mocha with entertainment. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the Coast of Down. This offer includes accommodation, breakfast and Family Fun Fitness classes (on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) based on two adults and two children sharing.  To book call 028 9145 1100.  Offer available until 26 April 2019.

  • One night B&B with dinner, Galgorm Resort and Spa, Co. Antrim from £360 per family per night

Set in lush parkland, with the River Maine flowing through the estate, Galgorm Resort has a truly unique setting.  Enjoy the tranquillity of nature and experience pure relaxation with riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and the unique Thermal Village & Spa that is the first of its kind in Ireland.  With these luxurious facilities to enjoy and its renowned warm welcome, Galgorm is the perfect escape. Indulge in the luxury of Galgorm’s brand new cottages with plenty of additional space to allow you to enjoy a Family break.  This offer includes one night’s dinner, bed and breakfast in a two-bedroom cottage, based on two adults and two children.  To book call 028 2588 1001.  Offer available until 21 April 2019.

  • One Night B&B, Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast from £155 per room.

Enjoy a sparkling Spring break at the Fitzwilliam Hotel, offering five star fabulousness in a perfect location at the very heart of Belfast. Contemporary design and super chic elegance go hand in hand with discreetly attentive service.  This offer includes overnight accommodation, a glass of bubbles on arrival, a full Fitzwilliam Breakfast on the morning of departure and late checkout until 1pm, based on two persons sharing. To book call 028 9044 2080.  Offer available until 21 April 2019.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (25 – 31 March)

  1. Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas and Politics 2019, Belfast, 25-31 March.  This ground-breaking festival offers an eclectic programme of over 130 events in venues across the city, including author Lionel Shriver, columnist and environmental campaigner George Monbiot and one of Ireland’s most distinguished former politicians, Mary Harney.  The festival also hosts a major exhibition by leading local artist Rita Duffy and features talks, workshops, theatre, comedy, films, walking tours, exhibitions and lots more.
  2. Birdwatch Morning at Castle Espie, Newtownards, 27 March.  One of Castle Espie’s experts will lead you on this expedition around the Wetland Centre’s reserve and woodland. There will also be time to see what’s on Strangford Lough!  Binoculars and sensible footwear are essential for the trek.  After your walk, pop into the Kingfisher Kitchen at Castle Espie and treat yourself to coffee and cake or a delicious lunch.
  3. International King’s Cup 2019 Ulster Qualifier, Coleraine, 27 March.  One of the most anticipated amateur golf tournaments is here.  For the very first time Team Ireland will be travelling to the United States to take on the USA.  This is the Ulster Regional Qualifier for the tournament, and those who progress will play in the second round National Qualifier at Malone Golf Club.  The event is open to any two-person team with a verifiable GUI Handicap. Whether you are a scratch golfer or a 20-handicap golfer you have an opportunity to qualify and represent Team Ireland.
  4. Paul Clements – Rambles Around Ireland, Lisburn, 28 March.  Acclaimed travel writer Paul Clements visits the Island Arts Centre to delight audiences with tales from his ‘Rambles round Ireland’. Clements has published three books about travelling around Ireland – ‘Burren Country’, ‘The Height of Nonsense’ and ‘Irish Shores’ – and his wry wit and story-telling ability have seen copies flying off the shelves.   He will take the audience on a journey through his thirty years as a travel writer – the sights, the sounds and absurd challenges like finding the highest point in the lowest county!
  5. Long Meadow Mother’s Day Workshop, Craigavon, 28 March.  Join professional florist, RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner and National Teacher Yolanda Campbell for a unique day of creativity at Long Meadow Farm. Experience the magic and beauty of the orchard in early Spring.  Walking through the orchard, gathering fresh foliage and apple tree prunings, be inspired in the beautiful setting of Long Meadow.  Later you will be able to create a beautiful table arrangement using your gathered foliage and flowers as Yolanda guides you through designing your own gift to take home or give to Mum!
  6. Dog Friendly Tours, Portrush, 30 March.  Dog Friendly Tours are a new light hearted, fun walking experience for dog owners.  Get out and about with your four legged friends and learn about the history of the places you will visit along the way.  Enjoy food and drink at a host of dog friendly venues with a special treat for your furry friends at the end of the tour and plenty of watering holes en route.
  7. Cultra Manor Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea, Holywood, 31 March. Enjoy a vintage afternoon tea experience at Cultra Manor, one of the last mansions of the landed gentry to be built in Ireland.  You will be greeted at the door of the splendid Edwardian manor house and shown to your table in the elegant Drawing Room. Here you will enjoy a feast of sweet and savoury treats, paired with a pot of the finest fresh tea.  As a special treat, Mum will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival.
  8. The Three Tenors, Belfast, 31 March.  Creating a storm around the country, Ireland’s favourite trio Shane, Dominic, and Derek – collectively The Three Tenors Ireland – promise a magical night to remember at the Lyric Theatre as they perform an exciting Celtic flavoured programme including Homes of Donegal and Caledonia and uplifting songs made famous by stars including Frank Sinatra, The Dubliners and Luciano Pavarotti.  Packed with a selection of songs from the shows as well as by artists as diverse as R.E.M. and the Bee Gees, there’s something for everyone!
  9. Mother’s Day Dine and Dance, Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast, 31 March.  Spoil your mum with a complimentary glass of prosecco on arrival followed by a delicious four-course lunch and entertainment from live band Conspiracy, covering everything from the swinging sixties right up to current chart hits. They’re sure to have you up on your feet dancing!  There’s no need to worry about the kids getting bored either, as there will be a magician and face painter to keep them entertained and provide plenty of laughs!
  10. State of the House, State of the Nation, Enniskillen, to 30 June.  This ongoing exhibition looks at the Enniskillen and Fermanagh Workhouse during the turbulent years of the Irish Famine, 1845-1849 and beyond.  As the environs of the entrance block of the Enniskillen Workhouse undergo huge change, now is the time to stop and consider the life of the most important building on site so the exhibition also looks at the future of the workhouse buildings and their central role in revealing the past.

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

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

By

Down

This Sunday 31st March at Castle Ward Estate, step into Winterfell and take aim where young Bran was taught archery by Jon Snow. Have a go at archery in the very place where the BAFTA award winning TV show was filmed in the  courtyard, aka ‘Winterfell’.  Stand in the recreated Game of Thrones archery film set tipi, dress in a Game Of Thrones-like costume to look the part and get ready to take aim.  Suitable for 8  years+ for an open session (50 mins) and 6 years+ for a private session (1 hour).  Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult.  Booking is essential. 

Armagh

Wee Wonders Sessions this Saturday 30th March is the perfect workshop to spend some quality time with your little ones to celebrate Mother’s Day! Join puppets Wendy & Will Wonder for a session jam packed with singing, signing, games, stories, activities as well as craft for you to take home.   Parents will enjoy participating with, and observing your wee wonder as they enter our exciting world of imaginative play and discovery. Your children will love spending creative time with you as they explore a range of fun hands on activities.

Fermanagh

This Mother’s Day treat your mum to a cruise on stunning Upper Lough Erne on SHARE’S Inishcruiser, whilst feasting on a delicious traditional Afternoon Tea. 2.30pm to 4.30pm on Sunday 31st March.

Tyrone

The Ward Sisters are a phenomenal three part harmony vocal group with an amazing country tone that is set to take the Country Music industry by storm!  Since entering the music scene the girls have stunned crowds all over Ireland with their incredible live performances and ability to give each song a unique and individual tone and twist.  The Ward Sisters have performed across the water many times and are now working hard on their second album which will be a compilation of original material. See them perform live at The Square Box, Ranfurly House Dungannon, Saturday 30th March.

Derry

Enjoy unique adventure activities at budget prices this Mother’s Day at the Jungle NI. Similar to a fun-fair, The Jungle’s Family Fun Day  is an open-park day and offers a range of outdoor activities by token. Simply buy as many tokens you wish, exchange your tokens for the activity, or activities, of your preference and enjoy a fun family experience day unlike any other!  Suitable for all ages and abilities – book online today!

Antrim

Mum & Me Afternoon Tea, Marine Hotel Ballycastle, Saturday 30th March 12.00pm to 4.00pm.  Celebrate your beautiful Mums/ Grannies/ Aunties/ Godmothers with a delicious Afternoon Tea by the sea. Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to mark an important occasion with your nearest and dearest.  Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, home baked scones with jam and cream and a delicious range of mini sweet treats and desserts, washed down with your choice of Twinning’s Tea. For a little something extra special add a glass of Prosecco.

Belfast

This Saturday evening, Cappella Caeciliana is delighted to return to the historic St Malachy’s Church in Belfast for a spring musical evening, featuring the premiere of More than Gold by Belfast composer Anselm McDonnell.  Tickets cost £12, with students and under 25s being admitted free of charge (no ticket required).  Proceeds are in aid of the St Malachy’s Church Restoration Fund.Tickets can be purchased online, and from Matchetts 50 Wellington Place, Belfast.  

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.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Big Telly’s Freak Show set for Theatre at The Mill

By

Vibrant fringe theatre delivers full throttle vaudeville entertainment.

Award winning Big Telly Theatre Company return to Theatre at The Mill with Freak Show on Wednesday 27 March. Never afraid of delivering work that is original and mischievous, if not slightly irreverent, the Portstewart based outfit’s work is always highly entertaining and deeply anchored in the stories, myths and legends of the land, especially the beautiful Causeway coast they call home.

Freak Show is a hugely entertaining blast of fringe-style vaudevillian theatre, inspired by the story of a real 17th Century giantess from the area called Mary Murphy. She is said to have danced for William of Orange and toured the world as part of a travelling freak show, popular at the time.

The story goes that Mary married a dashing French sea captain who gave up his seafaring life to manage her ‘freak show’ celebrity. But after her years being lauded by international attention, the Portrush giantess eventually died destitute and alone, her celebrity forgotten. Until now.

Artistic director of Big Telly, Zoe Seaton said: ‘Mary’s story made us wonder about celebrity culture today and how the whole business of fame has dark edges and corners. Who is exploiting who, and why? And is it really very different from 300 years ago where people were put on show to be stared at.’

The new piece is devised and written by Zoe Seaton and actor Nicky Harley working closely with Moyra Donaldson. The script uses material from the Newtownards writer’s collection ‘Miracle Fruit’ alongside new pieces written for the show.

Freak Show is an incredible display of physical theatre by two masters of the form – Keith Singleton (Soft Border Patrol/BBC) and co-writer Nicky Harley. The two actors play over 20 characters, itself an astonishing feat of their craft.

It is a fast, absurdly entertaining and raucous piece of theatre that is unique, funny and occasionally uncomfortable. There’s lots of humour in the show but Freak Show walks along a careful tightrope of empathy and emotion never losing sight of its sharp pokes at contemporary obsession with fame and celebrity.

Freak Show premiered at the Belfast International Arts Festival in November 2018 and is on tour throughout March.

Tour dates and venues, and further information at www.big-telly.com

Big Time Entertainment at the Market Place Armagh

By

Following on from the sell-out run of his Bald Ambition Tour, Colin Murphy returns to The Market Place Theatre in Armagh on Fri 29 and Sat 30 March, with his new show, ‘Big Time’.

It’s too early to say what the show will be about, but will it be funny? Oh Big Time! Colin is best known for his role as resident panellist on the BBC Northern Ireland comedy show ‘The Blame Game’.

On Saturday 30 March, Blues guitar legend Ronnie Greer plays The Market Place with his powerhouse band, featuring some of the finest musicians in the country, including Anthony Toner on guitar and vocals, and John McCullough on keyboards. Ronnie’s distinctive guitar style, incorporating searing Chicago blues style licks with be-bop inspired jazz lines, has been critically acclaimed as world class. Joining the band as special guest on this gig is Ken Haddock, without question, one of the most soulful and powerful vocalists we’ve ever had on these islands, an artist who really needs to be heard to fully appreciate the impact he imparts to an audience. Expect a night of blues, roots, soul and a little jazz-based music, performed with style and conviction by some of the best in the business. 

Tickets are available from the Theatre Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre. 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.

© Copyright What's On NI 2017. All Rights Reserved.