The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is playing host to a stunning line-up of music and drama over the coming weeks to celebrate the City’s St Patricks Festival.
The drama kicks off on Saturday 7 March with
‘Dream, Sleep, Connect’, a bold new comedy about disconnection in the digital
world, which takes a timely ‘swipe’ at online dating and appoholics.
Chris is working on a technological solution
for the Irish border under the beady eye of his boss, Lucy, when he realises he
has no one to invite to the office do. He joins Tinder only to find he’s met
his match in more ways than one… But before long, Chris begins to ask the
ultimate question: Who is watching who?
Then on Thursday 12 March, join us for ‘A
Sharing of Traditions’ as Cavan meets Antrim in a unique coming together of
traditional music, song, yarns & humour. Antrim’s own Willie Drennan and
Cavan’s Martin Donohoe will show us all how there is much more binding our
cultures together than driving us apart.
The Rapparees, a 5-piece folk and traditional
band, are about as exciting an act as you’re likely to encounter on the
circuit. Coming to The Market Place on Friday 13 March, their unique brand of
folk music combines vocal harmonies with lashings of fiddle and banjo, which
will have audiences on their feet singing and dancing along. They arrive at The
Market Place with a bang, with their new album ‘Recharged’. Join us for an
evening of foot stomping belters and heart-warming ballads.
The Walled City Music Festival is just around the corner and as part of this year’s event a major new piece has been commissioned by the Festival, with support from Arts Council Northern Ireland, from Derry-born composer Christopher Norby.
The piece is entitled ‘Some Day: A Piece about Civil Rights’ and will be premiered in The Glassworks on Saturday 7 March by international chamber ensemble Trio Festivale (Sabrina Hu, flute; Gerald Peregrine, cello: Cathal Breslin, piano).
‘Some Day’ presents civil rights movements as an
ongoing struggle for equity over time. Within this larger context is the story
of the civil rights movement in Derry – the precursor to it, how it was
influenced by movements in the Southern States of the USA, and how it was
eventually overshadowed by a violent Nationalist struggle. The piece also
examines the changing role of communications in the modern world – from
connecting people in the past to its capacity to divide, polarize and influence
political discourse in the present.
In addition to the music, the performance of
‘Some Day’ will featurea film montage of incredible photography and footage
from iconic figures such as Eamon Melaugh and Barney McMonagle in Derry, Spider
Martin in Selma, Alabama, and contemporary TV footage from local news
journalist Leona O’Neill. All of these historic materials have been crafted by
motion designer and illustrator Michael Boddy into a visual accompaniment to
the newly-composed music that will be shown in The Glassworks on 7 March.
Matthew Greenall, Executive Director of Walled
City Music, commented “Commissioning has become a regular feature of
Walled City Music Festival’s programme in recent years, and we
are delighted to present Some Day, our most ambitious commission to date.
Chris Norby has revisited and made fresh the live issue of civil rights in our
society, and his striking new work will encapsulate both the ongoing
importance of civil rights and the relevance of contemporary art
works to that struggle.”
Wellness From Within 2020 aims to tackle growing mental health crisis
TWO of Northern Ireland’s
leading Wellbeing Advocates have launched the province’s first ever local
wellness summit which aims to help tackle the growing mental health crisis.
Annette Kelly, Founder of the
inspirational wellness brand, Little Penny Thoughts, and Tyrone GAA player,
Richard Donnelly have joined forces to create Wellness From Within 2020
which is taking place on Sunday 29th March in the Crowne Plaza
Belfast from 10am – 5pm.
The full day event will include talks
and workshops from some of Ireland’s top thought leaders in the health and
wellness industry, ‘Real Life, Real Stories’ panel discussions with an
inspiring line-up of individuals who have all faced personal challenges and
overcame adversity.
Speakers at the event will
include Performance Nutritionist and Author, Daniel Davey; leading Personal
Trainer and cystic fibrosis hero, Ben Mudge and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
and mental health activist Caroline McMenamin.
Co-Founder of Wellness From
Within 2020, Annette Kelly said: “We are proud to launch Wellness From Within
2020, an event with a difference that will help open up conversations
surrounding our own personal wellbeing and mental health.
With Northern Ireland’s current
mental health crisis, we are eager to help others and let people know that
there are ways to build resilience and coping skills. Mind-set, fitness and
nutrition play a major role in boosting wellbeing and overall health which is
why we have created this unique event and we hope people will leave feeling
empowered, educated and inspired.”
Richard Donnelly, Co-Founder
added: “We’ve put together an amazing line-up of speakers who were selected
because of their incredible knowledge and expertise, uplifting nature, courage
and bravery and secured Event Partners from some of Northern Ireland’s top
businesses leading the way in the health and fitness industry. Wellness From
Within 2020 is a day suited for everyone and we are encouraging people from
across Northern Ireland to come along, take some time for themselves and learn
the importance of self-care.”
Event Partners include Bank of Ireland, Gym Co, Tony &
Jen’s, Move Your Mind, B&L Productions and Natur & Co Vitality.
Tickets are priced at £60 and include lunch and
a wellness pack to take home. For further information or to purchase tickets go
to www.littlepennythoughts.com
Libraries NI roll out new learning series with TrainingMatchmaker
Aspiring bloggers will have the opportunity to create, promote and deliver their own blog with a three-week, free course in Holywood and Belfast’s Lisburn road libraries.
Libraries NI has appointed TrainingMatchmaker.com to deliver the digitally focused workshops with expert Trainer – Chartered Marketer Christine Watson.
The ‘Get Blogging’ courses will offer training to help library users develop their skills and grow their confidence to enable them to become successful bloggers.
Margaret Bell, Deputy Head of Service, Libraries NI said: “We have been delighted with the success of the Blogging Inspiration events and the educational courses that TrainingMatchmaker.com have delivered so far and are confident that these new workshops will be a tremendous opportunity for library users to enhance their digital capability and grow their online footprint in a positive way.”
Trainer Christine Watson, who founded TrainingMatchmaker.com said that the course will benefit individuals, businesses, communities and charities.
“Over the three week programme the Get Blogging workshop will focus on helping attendees develop the skills relevant to the creation, distribution and monetisation of their blogs.”
There are many benefits from upskilling in the art of blogging including enhanced employability, proven digital competence, confidence, access to a peer community of bloggers, mental health and personal wealth.
The brand new three week courses follows a series of Blogging Inspiration Sessions, featuring active local bloggers in talks in libraries across Northern Ireland and an inaugural ‘Get Blogging’ programme in Lisburn City Library.
Christine said that getting online via a blog has many advantages.
“Active blogging helps individuals develop the specialist skills that many organisations and communities need to help keep pace with and benefit from the latest technology and working practices.
“Many businesses have reported that using blogs, as part of their digital marketing strategy, has helped sales growth, which they believe is directly attributable to improvement in the digital performance of their businesses coupled with a real sense of service by providing content sought on the web.”
Lisburn Road Library in south Belfast will host learners on February 26 and March 4 and 25.
Holywood Library in south Down will host learners on March 5, 19 and 26.
These courses are free to attend and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Bangor songsmith King Cedar will appear at Bangor Castle on Friday 27 March as part of the Music in the Chamber series of events.
King Cedar is the adopted moniker and
current musical meanderings of Stephen Macartney, formerly of The Farriers who
is known for his finely crafted songs and charismatic live performances. Stephen
has been a mainstay of the Northern Ireland music scene for many years, honing
his craft in bars, backrooms, and festival stages. Recently, he spent time in
the United States drawing on the inspiration of these turbulent times. This is
sure to be reflected in his new album ‘Everything, More & Other Stories.’
With the aim of writing as honestly as
possible, King Cedar recalls the stories we all accumulate along the way; from
love, life and regret, to depression, death – and whiskey. It’s country without
a pick-up, folk without a cardigan.
Accompanied by a full band, King Cedar will
debut music from the new album at this very special hometown gig in the
beautiful Chamber room at Bangor Castle on Friday 27 March at 8pm.
The 2020 OnlyJustMedia Summit will see 11 national and international speakers reveal the secrets of success on social media in today’s increasingly crowded online marketplace.
On February 29 at Belfast’s Odyssey delegates will hear inspirational content professionals from England, Ireland, Northern Ireland and USA on how to accomplish more across the many platforms now available.
The summit is the brainchild of influencer and content creator Lucy McMullan, owner of OnlyJustMedia.
Supporting Lucy is co-organiser and brand and project manager Alan Walace and host Cool FM star and influencer Rebecca McKinney.
Speakers for the event which will see delegates hear “how to build a social media community, influencing and impacting your audience, the secrets of making more of Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, as well as storytelling, brand building, visual marketing and more” said Lucy.
Travelling from the USA, UK and Ireland the speakers are:
1. Lucy McMullan (NI)
Owner, OnlyJustMedia
Lucy McMullan, also known as ‘OnlyJustLucy’ is the CEO of OnlyJustMedia LTD. She has an extensive background in digital marketing, business strategy, personal branding, content creation and growth hacking. Lucy has worked and met with a variety of the world’s top influencers and change makers from Gary Vaynerchuk to Sheryl Sandberg to HRH Prince William. Her main passion however is running events, like the OnlyJustMedia Summit, as she feels they make the most impact at scale.
2. Alan Wallace (NI)
MD, Impress Live
Alan is an experienced account, brand & project manager who has a decorative history working for some of the world’s most renowned brands. He is the founder of Impress Live, Insta Belfast, Belfast Vegan Map & has other business interests in the wellness industry. Alan has a Degree in Communication with Advertising and a Masters in business development with innovation. Recognising himself as a serial collaborator, Alan states that he seeks to add value to any person, project or organisation he is involved with.
3. Pete Lonton (NI)
Entrepreneur, coach, property investor & creator of Fire In The Belly podcast series
Pete’s background is in Project Management and Property, but his true passion is the ‘Fire In The Belly’ project itself. His mission is to help others find their potential and become the mightiest version of themselves. Pete openly talks about losing both of his parents, suffering periods of depression, business downturn and burn-out, and ultimately his years spent not stoking ‘Fire In the Belly’. Pete has the ability to connect with people and intuitively asks questions to reveal a person’s passion and discover how to live their mightiest life.
4. Adrian Vasquez (USA)
Creative Director for Ryan Serhant
Speaking on: “How to Build a Brand That Stands Out and Thrives”
Adrian Vasquez is the brand director for Ryan Serhant, best known for his appearances on Bravos ‘Million Dollar Listings.’ Adrian is responsible for all things branding and content creation for the Serhant Media Group. He will be flying from NYC to share all his top secrets on how to build and sustain a personal brand.
5. Gabriel Desanti (USA)
Content Creator, influencer
Speaking on: “The Cost of Learning: Finding Happiness in Your Field”
Gabriel Desanti is a talented videographer and photographer from NYC. Gabe has worked with some of the worlds top brands and influencers, and will be sharing tips on storytelling – and finding happiness in what you do. He will also be premiering his new film which is about just that.
6. Tyler Babin (USA)
Creative Resident with Adobe
Speaking on: “Social Media Success – Storytelling, Community and Culture”
Adobe Creative Resident, Tyler Babin, will be speaking on mental health as a person working in the creative field. Babin previously worked as a creative for Gary Vaynerchuk and is incredibly experienced in all things social media & content creation. He will also be sharing some social media tips and secrets.
7. Melanie Murphy (IRE)
Youtube creator, best selling author
Speaking on: “Influencing and Improving: Instagram, Youtube and more…”
Melanie Murphy is a two-time bestselling author and award-winning online content creator from Dublin. She has over 800,000 followers across her social media platforms and her YouTube videos have amassed more than sixty million views online, reaching people with her warm personality and her life lessons as well as her views on divisive topics such as sexuality, women’s rights, health and relationships. Also some silly fun stuff, just ’cause. She will be sharing her insight into influencer marketing.
8. Niamh MacAuley (NI)
Video marketing manager and owner of Purple Dot Media
Speaking on: “Video Marketing – Tips and Tricks”
Niamh MacAuley is best known for her informative tutorial videos for businesses and individuals on how to create better video content. Niamh is a firm believer that video is the future of marketing every business! She has experience in camera operation and producing promotional videos throughout the island of Ireland, and has been growing and working for Purple Dot Media for the last 5 years. In this time she has produced over 400 promo videos, for businesses’ websites and social media platforms.
9. Joel M (NI)
Illusionist, mentalist and TikTok influencer
Speaking on: “How to Make an Impact on TikTok : as an Individual or Business”
Joel is currently the most followed magician in Ireland & Northern Ireland. His unique style has earned him over 100 million views in the last year alone, across Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok. He currently has over 500k followers on TikTok and has worked with brands such as Samsung, Fanta, Mastercard, Starbucks and more.
10. Mike Winnet (UK)
CEO of IAM Productions Group
Speaking on: “Fast, Easy & Non Sleazy LinkedIn Marketing”
Mike Winnet is the CEO of IAM Productions Group, where he helps people and companies create a LinkedIn, and Social Media strategy that helps them get seen by more of the right people. In his free time, he dedicates himself to exposing ‘contrepreneurs’ and people who sell terrible online courses. He documents this journey on youtube The Contrepreneur Series.
11. Cody Wanner (USA)
Youtube content creator
Speaking on: “The Power of Real: Vlog-Style Video For Business”
Cody Wanner makes video content for Youtube, Instagram, TikTok, Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter. He is the founder of the ‘#NoSmallCreator’ movement- which preaches the message of ‘it doesn’t matter how many followers a person/business has, but what really matters is the good work that they do’.
Tickets for the OnlyJustMedia Summit which will be hosted by Cool FM presenter and influencer Rebecca McKinney include lunch, snacks and a goodie bag, are priced at £100 and available from www.onlyjustmedia.com.
Do you see yourself as a bit of a burger connoisseur? Think you’ve tried every combination in the book?
Belfast’s newest burger joint Burger Burger on Stranmillis Road have put together a menu they believe has “a burger for everyone”.
But which burger are you? Are you a thrill seeking firecracker or a classic plain Jane?
Gavin Rennick, project manager of the new restaurant in South Belfast said food choices can often tell you a lot about a person.
He added: “Let’s be honest, we’ve all judged someone by what they eat at some point or another. From sweetcorn and pineapple on pizza to brown or red sauce on your Ulster Fry.
“Whether you take avocado on your toast or plain old butter or have your tea milky white or tar-like black our choice of cuisine reveals whether we’re risk takers and thrill seekers or someone who likes to play it safe.”
1. Big Girl
For the indecisive one
It’s true what Mika said big girls you are beautiful, especially when you’re the name of a delicious burger. Can’t decide between chicken and beef? Why not have both? This burger combines two titans of the meat world with classic bacon and cheese toppings for a new take on the classic favourite that is the bacon cheeseburger. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!
2. Black Burger
For the breakfast lovers
If it’s 5pm and you’re craving an Ulster Fry look no further than this ‘Breakfast For Dinner’ inspired burger. Combining classic elements of everyone’s favourite breakfast this burger comes topped with a fried egg and black pudding crumble, for that authentic home cooked breakfast feel.
3. Firecracker
For the chicken connoisseur
Not a beef fan? But still want something meaty then this signature chicken burger is the one for you.
Gavin from Burger Burger said: “With the perfect balance of spice, topped with jalapeno mayo and cheese drip, this burger is sure to ignite a fire in your belly.”
4.Above & Beyond
For the lover of luxury
Looking to add that little bit of extra luxury to your regular burger? This beef burger oozes grandeur, topped with brisket and tobacco onions served with a tomato and chilli drip.
5. Thrillseeker
For the risktaker
Want to try something a bit different than your usual classics? Step outside your comfort zone with the Thrillseeker. This beef burger is topped with fried mushrooms and cheese and finished with a creamy peppercorn sauce sure to thrill your senses.
6. Asian Equation
For the one who just wanted a chinese
Do you ever find yourself in the situation where you want a chinese but your wife wants a burger? So you compromise and go for a burger? Well this burger is the one for you.
“Have all the flavours of your favourite Chinese takeaway in the form of a burger” said Gavin from Burger Burger, adding: “Don’t ruin your relationship over your food choices, instead tuck into this sumptuous blend of Hoisin and Plum Shredded Duck tossed in sesame seeds topped with a fried egg.”
7. Vegetarian
For the meat haters
No Meat? No problem. Tuck into this veggie burger delight topped with a fried egg, mozzarella cheese, cheese drip and jalapeno mayo for that extra kick. You now have no excuse to not go for burgers with your meat eating friends.
8. I’m a Vegan
For the one that has to tell everyone they’re a vegan
If you haven’t told anyone in at least 5 minutes, this burger gives you the perfect opportunity to drop into conversation that you’re in fact a vegan. You tell your waiter ‘I’m a Vegan’ and you don’t need to say anymore you’ll be met with a vegan patty topped with mushroom, onions and vegan garlic mayo. It’s the perfect way to save the planet and still keep your friends.
9. Hot Dog
For the one who doesn’t like burgers
Going out with some mates who love a good burger, but you’re just not that into it? Try the burger that’s not really a burger and have this classic hot dog instead. A well loved childhood favourite of three sausages in a bap with your choice of toppings, what could be better?
10. Plane Ticket, No Frills
For the ‘Plain Janes’
Are you a plain, no dressing, sauce on the side type of person? Well Plain Jane, this is your ‘plane ticket’ to your new favourite meal. No longer should you have to feel the embarrassment of being a grown adult and having to ask for your food plain, you like what you like and that’s alright. So there’s a burger especially for you.
“This is the ‘Plane Ticket, No Frills’ burger – it’s just the patty and bun” said Gavin. “If you want to add toppings you can add them, if you like to keep it plain you can, simple.”
11. Big Boy
For the lover of the classics
If you feel you can never beat the classics, this is your burger of choice. It’s the classic of all classics. The bacon cheeseburger with BBQ Sauce which you really can’t beat! It’s a classic favourite of many for a reason and it doesn’t plan on going anymore. But this isn’t just your average fast food burger, it’s a gourmet take on the classic using local ingredients that’s sure to satisfy your appetite.
12. Double Trouble
For the one who wants extra everything
“As Queen once said you want it all and you want it now” said Gavin. “Average is not enough, you need to take it a step further with this burger.”
There are no small measures here, as you’ll be able to feast on your beef patty topped with slavings of double bacon and cheese!
13. Strictly No Bun
For the one that’s calorie conscious
Still trying to stick to that post Christmas diet? Take the carbs out of the equation with the ‘Strictly No Bun’ burger, all the same beefy goodness with the guilty feeling, what more could you want? This burger is packed with a fully loaded salad, so you can get some of your five a day too.
Find out which burger you are at Burger Burger, Stranmillis Road, Belfast. For more information call 028 9543 3131 or find us on social media.
Overnight break in Belfast from only £100pps with up to £30 estate creditper person
Treat yourself to a
luxurious overnight break in Northern Ireland’s premier 5-star hotel, the Culloden
Estate & Spa, from only £100pps* and receive
complimentary estate credits worth up to £30 per person.
As part of the Luxury on
the Lough package guests will enjoy luxurious accommodation, Full Irish
Breakfast and complimentary estate credits:
£10 credit per adult
towards a 2-course meal in the Cultra Inn
£10 credit per adult
towards a 3-course meal in Vespers Restaurant
£10 credit per adult
towards a 50-minute spa treatment in The Spa at Culloden
This magnificent hotel is just six miles from Belfast and the
perfect location for guests to completely unwind and relax with roaring log
fires and views over Belfast Lough and across County Antrim. The Culloden
Estate has 98 stunning bedrooms and suites, a luxurious spa and a
range of dining options including Vespers Restaurant serving modern
cuisine using only the finest and freshest local ingredients; The Lough Bar
offering light snacks and the hotel’s famous decadent Afternoon Tea and
the Cultra Inn, a cosy bar and bistro which nestles within the Estate and
is perfect for a tasty lunch, evening meal or pint by the fireside.
For further information or
to book go to www.hastingshotels.com orcall the
Culloden Estate & Spa on 028 9042 1066.
Northern Ireland boasts a wonderful 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.
Rural getaway at the Beech Hill Country House Hotel, Derry~Londonderry
from £160per room per night based on two people sharing
Beech Hill Country House Hotel is just
two miles from the Culture Capital that is Derry~ Londonderry and is perfectly
located to give guests both a city break and country escape all in one.
Surrounded by 32 acres of beautiful woodlands and steeped in 400 years of
history you are guaranteed a stay you won’t forget. This offer includes an
overnight stay with breakfast, award winning Derry City Walking Tour followed
by entry into The Museum of Free Derry and a two course dinner in Sixteen22
Gastro Pub at Beech Hill. To book call 028 7134 9279. Offer available until 31st
March (subject to availability)
Two night stay at the Manor House Country Hotel, Enniskillen from £99 per
person sharing
Located in the heart of the Fermanagh
Lakelands on the shores of Lough Erne, the award winning Manor House Country
Hotel is the perfect country retreat combining old world charm with modern
hotel luxury. Offer includes a two night stay in a classic double room, full
Irish breakfast served each morning in Belleek Restaurant which overlooks Lower
Lough Erne, dinner on one evening in the Belleek Restaurant, complimentary
access to the leisure centre and a complimentary bottled water in room. To book
call 028 6862 2200. Offer available on selected midweek dates until the 8th
April (subject to availability).
Further.Space glamping pods at Glenarm Castle Estate, Glenarm from £159
per pod per night
Glenarm Castle holiday pods offer the
perfect rural getaway along the Causeway Coastal Route. These cosy, fully
furnished pods have all the comforts of home including electric, running water,
mini fridge and heating plus they’re located with ocean views and looking
across the stunning estate. Make your holiday unique in these well-equipped
pods which can sleep two adults and two kids (double bed and bunk beds). To
book call 028 2884 1203 using Promo Code GIANTSPIRIT20. For same day booking
please email: glenarmcastle@further.space. Offer
available until 31st March (subject to availability).
The 2020 OnlyJustMedia Summit will see 11 national and international speakers reveal the secrets of success on social media in today’s increasingly crowded online marketplace.
On February 29 at Belfast’s Odyssey delegates will hear inspirational content professionals from England, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the USA on how to accomplish more across the many platforms now available.
Lucy McMullan, owner of OnlyJustMedia, who organises the conference alongside event co-founder Alan Walace said this was the biggest summit they have staged and promises to provide more than just an educational day.
“In 2018 we not only sold out the event in a few weeks, but created a huge buzz from local attendees and our international speakers,” she said.
“This year is not only 10x bigger but will have more opportunities to learn, be inspired and have fun.”
“Delegates will hear how to build a social media community, influencing and impacting your audience, the secrets of making more of Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn content, as well as storytelling, brand building, visual marketing and more.”
Headline sponsor Pete Lonton of the Fire In The Belly podcast series says “I had to back the OnlyJustMedia Summit. The event showcases everything I stand for.” Pete is an entrepreneur, mentor, coach and property investor whose mission it is to help others find their potential and become the mightiest version of themselves. Pete’s podcast launches on spotify, itunes and other platforms on Monday 24th February.
From New York, Adrian Vasquez, Creative Director for Million Dollar Listing star Ryan Serhant will explain How to Build a Brand that stands out and thrives, while influencer Gabriel Desanti will outline how to find happiness in your chosen field.
Also from the Big Apple Tyler Babin of Adobe will be speaking about storytelling, community and culture, as well as protecting your mental health online.
Dublin best selling author and YouTube sensation Melanie Murphy has 800,000 followers and her YouTube views top 60m. She will be sharing her insights into influencer marketing.
“From keynote addresses to intimate conversations the OnlyJustMedia Summit 2020 has been designed so that delegates have access to so many creative and talented people,” said Alan Wallace.
“This is an essential day for everyone who wants to develop their online presence, as well as all the networking opportunities a day like this presents.”
Among the other speakers will be YouTuber Cody Wanner from Pennsylvania who will talk about creating vlog-style video for business, while content creator Mike Winnet from Warrington will be covering Fast, Easy and non-Sleazy LinkedIn marketing.
Northern Ireland’s Niamh McAuley of Purple Dot Media will outline tips and tricks of video marketing and illusionist and Mentalist Joel M will explain how to make an impact on TikTok as an individual or a business.
The event is sponsored by amazing international and local brands- from Coca Cola, The Body Shop and Estee Lauder, to Tayto, Irish Black Butter and Bullitt Hotel.
Tickets for the OnlyJustMedia Summit which will be hosted by Cool FM presenter and influencer Rebecca McKinney include lunch, snacks and a jam-packed goodie bag, are priced at £100 and available fromwww.onlyjustmedia.com.