Author: whatsonni

New exhibition featuring Irish artists coming to Limavady

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Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre will welcome a new exhibition featuring the works of renowned Irish artists from Friday 12th April.

The ‘UNTITLED (landscape)’ exhibition is the latest in a series of joint art demonstrations organised by the Department of Finance (DoF) and the Office of Public Works (OPW).

This year the exhibition focuses on the theme of landscape and the 30 artworks from artists including Mark Shields, Mickey Donnelly, Jennifer Trouton and Richard Mosse reflect the variety of this chosen topic. 

The artists were also invited to provide information about their selected art technique for the catalogue which includes painting, printmaking and photography.

Artist and curator Marianne O’Kane Boal will also facilitate an informal talk on the pieces within the exhibition on Thursday 2nd May from 12pm – 1pm. Admission is free.

The exhibition will continue in Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre until Saturday 1st June.

World Superbike stars Jonathan Rea and Eugene Laverty to star in fonaCAB International NW200 in association with Nichols Oils Chat Show

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Four time world Superbike champion, Jonathan Rea enjoyed his time so much at last year’s fonaCAB International North West 200 in association with Nicholl Oils, he will make a return visit to the event this year.

The Kawasaki rider will take part in a special chat show in the paddock marquee on Wednesday, May 15 at 8pm.

Twelve months ago Rea rode a special lap of honour around the famous 8.9 mile Triangle circuit as the television cameras captured memorable images of the Ballyclare man brushing hands with hundreds of race fans along the coast road. This year his hordes of local supporters will have a chance to hear Jonathan describe how he became the first man in history to win four consecutive WSB titles and his attempt to make it a five timer in 2019.

Jonathan will be joined on stage in the marquee chat show by fellow Northern Ireland WSB racer, Eugene Laverty. The Toomebridge rider has switched to Ducati power with the Team Go Eleven squad for this season after several years with SMR Aprilia. Eugene has also been a regular visitor to the NW200 over the years. The man asking the questions on the night will be BBC NI’s Stephen Watson.

With two big stars on board, seats for this unique chat show will be in huge demand, so don’t miss out on your chance to be there by clicking on the official website  https://www.northwest200.org/

and ordering your ticket today. 

The Long Now By Sam Burnside

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As part of Antrim Live Festival, Ulster Theatre Company present The Long Now by County Antrim born poet Sam Burnside at The Old Courthouse on Saturday 6 April.

Featuring two actors, projections, live music underscore and a soundscaped chorus, The Long Now explores one man’s memories.

Memory is general to all, while memories are unique to each of us.  Memory is shared, but my memories are mine, warmed or cooled, sweetened or embittered with time’s passing.

“I remember as a child being a passenger in a big black car on one dark evening.  I remember sitting low in the front passenger seat, looking up and out through the windscreen, the passing world of tree tops and cloud-filled sky being cut like scenes in a film with that mesmeric rhythm of the windscreen wipers. Do I remember, or do I imagine the sound of the wipers, the warmth of the car and the smell of the smoke of my mother’s cigarette?  I do not know but I imagine I remember the truth of that experience.”

“This entertainment may or may not be true.  Who can say?  Co Antrim in the 1950s is a far-off place.  Yet, this is the honest product of a writer closing his eyes and thrusting his hand into the bran tub of time and memory and hoping.”(Sam Burnside)

Featuring Sam Burnside’s poetic language, The Long Now is an evocative exploration of memory, childhood and hope.

Tickets from Box Office T: 028 9442 8331 or online theoldcourthousetheatre.com

RAIL-Y BIG BIRTHDAY BASH TO MARK 100 YEARS OF THE NO. 3 GUINNESS ENGINE

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Whitehead Railway Museum is set to host a fun filled birthday party to mark the centenary of the No. 3BG Guinness steam locomotive.

The 1919 engine, appropriately named after Arthur Guinness was built to shunt wagons between the famous Guinness Brewery at St. James’ Gate in Dublin and the nearby Kingsbridge (now Heuston) station. When Guinness closed its broad gauge line in May 1965, No. 3BG became the RPSI’s first locomotive.

Since then, the engine has shunted at Whitehead Excursion Station, worked train rides on the site and spent time hauling passenger trains on the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.

To mark the historic occasion, a birthday party will be hosted at Whitehead Railway Museum on 6th April 2019 from 12 noon to 4pm. Short steam train rides on the engine will be the main attraction as it will allow visitors to experience the smells and sounds of a steam locomotive, stepping on board a steam train perhaps for the first time. Tickets are required for the train rides and are priced at £2.50 for adults and £2.00 for children. No need to book in advance as they can be purchased on the day.

For ticket holders there will be lots of fun activities throughout the afternoon for young and old to enjoy including balloon modelling, face painting and cutting of the birthday cake!

Big Telly Theatre Company will also be performing five minute pop-up plays at 10.30am,  12.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm throughout the museum, re-enacting the Whitehead train robbery of 1939.  Museum tickets for the plays can be purchased on the day.

Siobhan Dillon, acting General Manager of Whitehead Railway Museum said, “This is a fantastic occasion for the Museum, and we want everyone to feel part of the celebrations. It is not often that you get to enjoy a 100th birthday party so we want to make it a memorable occasion. We are pleased to have delegates and invited guests join us from across Northern Ireland but want everyone feel welcome. The festivities are set to be a fantastic family fun day out and everyone is welcome to come along.”

The Edwardian Tea Room will be open as usual from 10.15am serving homemade lunches and guided tours will be on offer at 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm. For more information visit, https://www.steamtrainsireland.com/

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

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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

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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!

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  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

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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

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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

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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.

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