Month: February 2020

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

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Down

Put on your wellies, get out into nature and have a splashing time at the Puddle Jumping Championships this Saturday at WWT Castle Espie!  Come rain or shine, this is the perfect activity for a fun filled family day out!  Daily competitions with splashtastic prizes to be won. 15th to 20th February.

Antrim

Create your own animated Lego mini film with Can Do Academy at the Lego Animation Workshop in Ballyclare Town Hall this Saturday.   Learn the basics of film making, how to storyboard and different animation techniques. Create your own storyline and learn the do’s and don’ts of effective animation which you can apply at home.  ​

Armagh

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly. I don’t know why she swallowed a fly…But The People’s Theatre Company do!  And now you can too at the Market Place Theatre this Sunday, as they bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life just in time to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pam Adams’ best-selling book.

Derry/Londonderry

Across the Threshold – A Taste of Heaney, Saturday 15 February, 5.00pm & 8.00pm at the Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart.  An exclusive evening of entertainment, theatre and a tasting menu  inspired by the poetry of Heaney and hosted by Big Telly Theatre Company alongside Chef Paula McIntyre MBE.

Fermanagh

Surprise your better half this Valentine’s Day with a romantic cruise on Upper Lough Erne. This unique event takes place on Saturday 15th of February at 2.30pm, on-board The Inishcruiser at Share Discovery Village . Includes afternoon tea, glass of wine or prosecco, chocolates and a guided tour of the lough.

Tyrone

This Valentine’s Weekend enjoy a delicious menu crafted by the award-winning team at the Mellon Country Inn Omagh.  Enjoy live music on Friday 14th February with Paddy McDermott and on Saturday 15th February with The Whistlin’ Donkeys!

Belfast

This Sunday at the Waterfront Hall join Quirky Weddings for another day of the best wedding inspo from some of NI’s top wedding vendors. Meet 120 companies who can create, customise and present you with everything you need to make your big day exactly what you want it to be.  Expect a wide range of venues with experts to talk you through your options.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

CQ BID’s Lunchtime Learning Series Is Back With New Programme Of Events

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The popular Lunchtime Learning programme is back with a bang with a new three-month programme to support businesses in an ever-evolving marketing landscape.

The Destination CQ (Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District) initiative focuses on the challenging digital environment with free 45-minute events are designed for all businesses in the Cathedral Quarter and are held in the Black Box.

CQ BID manager, Gareth Neill, said that these sessions have been designed to help all to enhance their online marketing profile particularly around positive engagement with new and existing customers.

“After the fantastic success of our first season of Lunchtime Learning, we are back again with a new batch,” he said. “evaluation after our last series, merited further sessions based on marketing and digital media and we are delighted to have curated a range of industry leaders from across the Cathedral Quarter to take part.

“This is part of the BID’s commitment to provide additional training and business support to businesses operating in Cathedral Quarter & Smithfield; we have an energetic and enthusiastic business community who are keen to learn, upskill, and share best practice amongst each other in the area.”

Most sessions in the past have been sold out; with an average rating of 4.5/5 across all our speakers and content choices. It’s a great opportunity to escape the office, learn something new and network with neighbouring businesses.

Organised by Andi Jarvis of Eximo Marketing the upcoming sessions include: How to Write a Marketing Plan, marketing on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, Facebook and Instagram Ads, an introduction to Google Analytics.

In addition to the Lunchtime Learning series there will be bespoke ticketed three-hour workshops for advanced social media learning.

There will also be a series of bespoke three-hour workshops on marketing plans, Facebook and Instagram ads, Google Analytics and how to use WordPress.

Full details and how to sign up are here: https://www.cathedralquarterbelfast.com/lunchtime-learning/

I, Elizabeth

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Theatre lovers are in for a treat this month when I, Elizabeth, a stunning performance from Dyad Productions, the award-winning creators of Orlando, Jane Eye and Christmas Gothic comes to Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Tuesday 25 February.

Rebecca Vaughan as Elizabeth I, in the stunning ‘I, Elizabeth’ by Dyad Productions which will be performed at Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Tuesday 25 February at 8pm.

Elizabeth I: Queen at 25, political phoenix and famously unmarried, she was the most educated woman of her Age – but who was he woman beneath the crown?

Using only Elizabeth’s words – adapted from letters, speeches and writings – I Elizabeth illuminates a fascinating moment of decision in the young monarch’s reign. Defying the establishment by choosing to lead her country alone, Elizabeth forsakes her own dreams and desires in order to steer England towards national and spiritual security. I, Elizabeth explores the struggle to reconcile the desires of womanhood with the duties of sovereignty to expose the royal heart of an iconic historical figure.

I Elizabeth, is written and performed by Rebecca Vaughan (writer/performer: Female Gothic, Christmas Gothic, Austen’s Women, performer: Orlando, Jane Eyre, Dalloway, The Diaries of Adam and Eve) and directed by Guy Masterson (Austen’s Women, Female Gothic, Oliver Award-Winning director of Morecambe).

‘Riveting… a breath-taking creation.’ (Edinburgh Evening News)

‘A truly breath-taking experience.’ (Fringe Review)

‘A performance worthy of an Academy Award.’ (The Carrick)

I Elizabeth, Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor, Tuesday 25 February, 8pm.

Tickets cost £12 and are on sale now at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown.

Tickets can also be purchased from North Down Museum, Ards Arts Centre or any of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Visitor Information Centres.

Valantine’s Offers from Hastings Hotels to fall in love with

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LOVE is in the air at Hastings Hotels this Valentine’s Day with a selection of luxurious overnight stays, romantic dinners and gifts that even cupid would fall in love with!

With the choice of seven luxurious hotels across Northern Ireland, there is something for everyone and all guests will receive one of the famous Hastings Love Ducks to take home.

Couples can choose from the following romantic overnight breaks from Thursday 13th February until Sunday 16th February:

  • ‘Romance in the City’ at the Everglades Hotel in Derry~Londonderry from £140 per couple* includes a romantic meal for two in The Grill Restaurant and a glass of wine.
  • ‘Room for Romance’ at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast from £160 per couple* includes a complimentary room upgrade to an Executive Room and romantic meal for two with a glass of Pink Fizz in La Scala Restaurant.
  •  ‘From the Heart’ at Ballygally Castle in Co Antrim from £180 per couple* includes a glass of Prosecco and romantic dinner for two in the Garden Restaurant.
  • ‘Sweetheart Stays’ at the Europa Hotel in Belfast from £200 per couple* includes a complimentary room upgrade, Pink Fizz Cocktail on arrival and romantic meal for two in the Causerie Restaurant.
  • ‘A Valentine’s Wish’ at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle from £250 per couple* includes meal for two and a glass of Prosecco in the Oak Restaurant.
  • ‘Lovin’ You – Seahorse Package’ at the Grand Central Hotel includes romantic 4-course evening meal and a glass of Pink Fizz in the Seahorse Restaurant or the

‘Higher Love – Observatory Package’ includes a complimentary room upgrade with                guaranteed views, a reserved table in the stunning Observatory with a bottle of Bollinger and chocolate covered treats. Both packages are priced from £270 per couple*.

  • ‘For My ‘Suite’ Heart’ at the Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast from £350 per couple* includes an upgrade to a stunning suite and a romantic meal for two in Vespers with a glass of Champagne

Luxury extras are available at each hotel including Champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival or why not surprise your other half with a relaxing treatment in The Spa at Culloden or The Spa at Slieve Donard.

Delectable 4-course dinners are available at each of the hotels and for the perfect gift to show how much you love your other half, treat them to a Hastings Hotels Gift Card which can be used at any of the seven hotels and redeemed against an indulgent Spa treatment, a romantic dinner, a delightful afternoon tea or a relaxing break away. There’s something to suit everyone and every budget this Valentine’s day.

To book a romantic Valentine’s with Hastings Hotels simply contact 028 9047 1066 or visit www.hastingshotels.com

*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Based on two people sharing.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things taking place 3 – 9 February 2020.

1.       under-the-hawthorn-tree Under the Hawthorn Tree Belfast, 30 January – 9 February. The acclaimed production Under the Hawthorn Tree is returning to Belfast in a presentation by the award-winning children’s theatre company, Cahoots NI and the MAC, featuring a star-studded cast including Frankie McCafferty and Julia Dearden. Based on the internationally acclaimed book by award-winning author Marita Conlon-McKenna Under the Hawthorn Tree follows the journey of three brave siblings as they fight for survival during the Potato Famine in Ireland, 1845.

2.       Kirkistown-Point-to-Point Kirkistown Point to Point Newtownards, 8 February. Point-to-point is the perfect day out for all the family where you can witness the future stars of the racing industry make their introduction into competitive racing. Unlike most racecourses, spectators can stand beside one of the fences and feel the power of the horses as they jump a fence in full flight. The track is also the perfect location for a picnic from the boot of your car where you can enjoy the action with your friends and family.

3.       No-Other-Word-For-It No Other Word for it Derry~Londonderry, 26 January – 9 February. An immersive installation combining music, sculpture, light, text and video mapping by Ailís Ní Ríain.   Ailís Ní Ríain is an Irish contemporary classical composer and published writer for stage who aims to produce work that challenges, provokes and engages. A regular collaborator with artists in other art-forms, her artistic interests are diverse and combined with an unwavering desire to push and develop her artistic practice through each new project or commission.

4.       Belfast-Gin-School Belfast Gin School Belfast, 25 January – 28 March. Through experiential learning, with master distiller, Ian, you will have the opportunity to see gin being distilled, learn about flavour combinations and make your own. Each participant will receive a goodie bag containing their own miniature bottle of gin to serve with their tonic of choice at home. A great afternoon with gin and cupcakes, what’s not to love?

5.       Winter-Bird-Watching-Birds-on-the-Bann Winter Bird Watching Coleraine, 9 February. It’s the start of a new year so why not get out and enjoy a wildlife watching boat trip with Causeway Lass. Enjoy a river trip experience on board Causeway Lass whilst exploring the Bann estuary. Witness wildlife and scenery during this two hour trip with their eagle eyed guide.

6.       Paranormal-Investigation Paranormal Investigation Belfast, 18 January – 31 March. On this four hour investigation you will be taken to the most active areas in the Gaol and will be given the chance to use equipment as used by experts while conducting your very own ghost hunt. The areas you will visit will include the reception, the condemned man’s cell, execution chamber, the tunnel and the flogging room.

7.       St-Columbs-School-of-Music-Official-Opening St Columb’s School of Music Official Opening Derry~Londonderry, 8 February. The Priests, Irish tenor and folk singer George Hutton, local concert pianist Ruth McGinley and jazz aficionados Scott Flanigan and Cathal Roche will be among the glittering line-up of performers at the official launch of St Columb’s School of Music which will be compered by RTE television and radio personality, Mr Bryan Dobson.

8.       Cakebread-Wine-Dinner Cakebread and Wine Dinner Belfast, 4 February. Berts Jazz Bar invites you to their unique Cakebread Wine Dinner. On the island for the first time, the team from the Cakebread Vineyard in California will be hosting a delightful evening, serving up a sumptuous five course dinner along with wine pairings hosted by Bruce Cakebread.

9.       Walled-City-400 Walled City 400 Derry~Londonderry, 18 February 2019 to 31 March 2020. Last year marked the 400th anniversary of the completion of the Derry Walls. Built from 1613-1619, the Walls are the largest ancient monument in Northern Ireland, the only remaining Walled City in Ireland and one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe.

10.   Life-Cycles-by-Lorna-Smyth Life Cycle by Lorna Smyth Enniskillen, 2 December 2019 – 18 April 2020. This showcase of new works, curated by renowned artist Lorna Smyth, encompasses the four seasons in one year. Lorna’s art emphasises the world around us, highlights her love of nature and captures a sense of belonging regardless of the place name.

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

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of what’s on across the North this weekend.

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Down

Make February one to remember and join Cancer Focus NI on Friday for a night-time spectacular at the Kilbroney Night Walk. Not only will you experience the scenic wonderland of Kilbroney Park by moonlight, but you’ll also be greeted at the finish line with well-earned refreshments, cake, music & a medal!

Antrim

Join Mr. Hullabaloo the magical storyteller and his colourful puppet friends for an enchanted tea party full of well-loved classic stories and songs this Saturday at the Old Courthouse Antrim.  From teddy bears picnics to royal balls at the storybook castle, this show is lots of fun for all the family.

Armagh

Paint your pet at a workshop in Armagh County Museum this Saturday morning.   Participants will create an acrylic painting on canvas of their chosen animal or pet with the guidance and expertise of professional artist Lorraine Fletcher.  All materials are provided, however participants are welcome to bring their own paints and brushes if they wish.

Derry

No words are needed at Downhill Demesne this February as Mussenden Temple welcomes an impressive new evening light installation, “Silent Art”.  Visitors will be steeped in the landscape. Embarking on a silent walk to Mussenden Temple which sits perched at the edge of a 120ft cliff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean. Exposed. Yet protective.  9-15 February – 17:30-18:15 (+ other times). 16-23 February – 18:00-18:45 (+ other times).

Fermanagh

Described across the world as “Jaw Dropping” and “Hilarious”, NI’s record breaking Mind Reader Meade is back on home soil to blow your mind in his funniest and most interactive show yet: “Catch Meade If You Can”.  See David live on stage at the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen this Friday evening.

Tyrone

Flash Harry are Northern Irelands most enduring tribute band, celebrating the music of super star Freddie Mercury and super group Queen, for over 25 years. Queen fans can see Flash Harry live on stage this Friday 7th February at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh. Tickets £20.

Belfast

Calling guitarists of any age ability! This Saturday Matchetts Music in Belfast will show you how to change the strings and maintain your steel string acoustic /electric guitar. This is a fun interactive session for all ages and are free of charge.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

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