Author: whatsonni

Phantom of The Opera to Haunt Newtownabbey

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Following on from the success of last year’s production of Oliver, Theatre at The Mill’s successful Summer Youth Group performs Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. Now in its 30th year, Phantom of The Opera is one of the most successful pieces of entertainment of all time and will run from Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 August at 7pm.

Far beneath the majesty and splendour of the Paris Opera House, hides the Phantom in a shadowy existence.  Shamed by his physical appearance and feared by all, the love he holds for his beautiful protégée Christine Daaé is so strong that even her heart cannot resist.

Under the direction of Anna McNamara, director at the leading conservatoire for musical theatre GSA, this summer treat will feature some of the most talented young artists and musicians in Northern Ireland.  In a fully staged production, this youth group production will include outstanding musical numbers All I Ask of You, The Music of the Night, Think of Me and Phantom of the Opera.

Tickets are available from Box Office 028 9034 0202 or online www.theatretathemill.com

Phoenix Natural Gas fuels Hillsborough International Oyster Festival Soapbox Derby

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The Hillsborough International Oyster Festival is gearing-up for the 2016 Phoenix Natural Gas Soapbox Derby which will be held on Saturday 3rd September 2016 as part of the Festival’s annual showcase.

Now in its 24th year, Hillsborough International Oyster Festival is one of Northern Ireland’s premier events, attracting thousands of visitors each year from across the world. Set in the historic, picturesque Georgian village of Hillsborough, Co. Down the event takes place from Tuesday 30th August – Saturday 3rd September 2016 and visitors can look forward to food and festivities with a packed programme of activities and entertainment.

Sponsored this year by Phoenix Natural Gas, the Soapbox Derby is a highlight of the Festival with community and youth groups from all across Northern Ireland entering the race each year. The competition is calling for entries from racers of all ages and backgrounds who are keen to design and race their own soapbox at the event for a chance to win a variety of cash prizes as well as a surprise prize from Toyota which be unveiled in the weeks leading up to the race!

Don Spence, Chairman of the Hillsborough International Oyster Festival organising committee said: “The Soapbox Derby is always a highlight of the Festival; it really encourages team spirit amongst entrants and promotes community interaction. We are very grateful to Phoenix Natural Gas for coming on-board to support this long-standing Festival favourite and look forward to working together to make this year bigger and better!”

The competition is now open for entries to all community groups, youth clubs and children accompanied by an adult. Teams are being invited to design and construct their own soapbox before racing it down Hillsborough’s Main Street for a chance to win one of the event’s sought-after prizes.

Alastair Pollock, Business Development Director from sponsor Phoenix Natural Gas added: “The Soapbox Derby is one of the most exciting aspects of the Hillsborough International Oyster Festival and we’re delighted to be helping to put the wheels in motion. The competing teams are very imaginative and are always thinking outside the (soap) box with their designs!”

There will be a number of race categories on Saturday 3rd September with drivers able to enter the following classes:

  • Junior Race – open to drivers aged 12-17 years old.*
  • Senior Race – open to drivers 18 years old, and over.
  • Best Warm up performance.
  • Best Overall Team.

Runners-up from the Junior and Senior Races will also receive cash prizes and their marks will be based on finishing times. The Best Overall Team will speed home with £500 and the special Toyota prize will be awarded to the group that demonstrates an exemplary spirit of comradery.

Entries will incur a fee of £40 (Junior) and £60 (Senior) and the deadline to enter is Monday 19th August 2016. Full competition entry details and terms and conditions can be found at www.hillsboroughoysterfestival.com.  Completed entry forms should be sent to: Stephen Patterson, C/o ER Wilson’s Grocers, 1 Main Street, Hillsborough, BT26 6AE.

The Hillsborough International Oyster Festival programme runs from Tuesday 30th August – Saturday 3rd September 2016 and is proudly supported by principal sponsors Turkish Airlines, Quilter Cheviot, Phoenix Natural Gas and Tourism Northern Ireland.

For further information on all events taking place and to book tickets visit www.hillsboroughoysterfestival.com.

Tourism NI’s Offers of the Week

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Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for an ideal short break and Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

  • Stay and Play, Galgorm Resort & Spa, Co. Antrim. From £90pps. Set in 163 acres of lush parkland and with the spectacular River Maine flowing through the estate, Galgorm Resort & Spa has a truly unique and beautiful setting.  The gold club is host to the annual Northern Ireland Open. Enjoy one night’s bed and breakfast and a round of golf at the Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Available until December 31.  To book call (028) 25 881001
  • Girls Night Party Package, Marine Court Hotel, Co. Down. From £60pps. Beautifully situated overlooking the marina on Bangor’s seafront, the hotel is ideal for both business and pleasure. Your package includes one night’s accommodation, a four-course evening meal, cocktail making lesson, VIP entry to Calico Jacks, Residents Bar and a full cooked breakfast the following morning.  Available until Dec 17. To book call (028) 91 451100
  • Fitz Escape, Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast. From £170pps. Located in the city centre, the Fitzwilliam Hotel is adjacent to the Grand Opera House and close to various attractions.  It’s a haven for art lovers and shoppers alike due to its location. Enjoy a two-night city break with a four-course evening meal on one evening with a bottle of house wine, full Irish breakfast on both mornings and two entrance tickets to Titanic Belfast.  Available until Dec 31. To book call (028) 90 442080

For further information log on to www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

*All offers are subject to availability.

Rooster International Topper Class World Championships 23rd to 29th July

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Members of the East Antrim Boat Club (EABC) gathered at Larne Harbour ahead of the Rooster International Topper Class World Championships which commences this Saturday, 23rd July to Friday 29th July at Ballyholme Yacht Club, Bangor.

Pictured (Left – Right) are sailors Matthew Liddle aged 11, Hannah Liddle aged 15, Iain MacRea aged 11, Trevor Wright, Larne Harbour Master, Rory Williamson aged 12, Abby Williamson aged 14, Joshua Kane aged 10, Lucy Kane aged 15 and Michael Kane, Honorary Secretary, EABC. P&O Ferries, which operates the fastest and most frequent crossing from Larne to Cairnryan, is proud to sponsor the Topper World Championship.

The annual event, which takes place all over the world, will attract UK and International sailors of all ages to the waters of Belfast Lough, including members of the EABC. International competitors plan to come from the USA, Canada, Taiwan, China and Singapore as well as from across Europe.

The skills and experience gained during this International Topper Class event provides sailors with great foundations from which they could go on to become European, World and Olympic champions.

The family friendly event at Ballyholme Yacht Club will commence at 10am this Saturday, 23rd July. A climbing wall and virtual reality helmets will add to the fun, creating a great family atmosphere.

Football Banners up for Auction

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In recognition of our four local football players who were part of the Northern Ireland Football team at the recent European Championships, we had banners displayed around the Borough showing our support.

Following the interest shown in these banners we are delighted to offer you the chance to own these exclusive pieces of memorabilia. A banner for Craig Cathcart, Paddy McNair and a joint correx board for the Evans brothers are now available to bid for via a silent auction.  All proceeds from the auction will go to the Mayors designated charities, Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Help The Heroes and Lighthouse.

If you would like to make a bid for these unique collectors’ items, whilst also helping a worthwhile charity please send your bid to comms@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk . The auction will begin at 6pm today and close on Wednesday 3 August @ 10am.  The successful bidders will be notified once the auction has closed.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of What’s On this Weekend across NI

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Down

The Ford Capri Club of NI are hosting a display of vintage, classic, modified, motorsport and American Ford cars in the grounds of the Transport Museum, Cultra, Holywood  on Sunday 24th July, starting at 11:00am.  Entry to the event for spectators is at the usual museum entry fees.

Armagh

The Lyric Theatre present Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme at the Marketplace Theatre Armagh this Saturday 23rd July.  On 1 July 1916, the 36th Ulster Division took part in one of the bloodiest battles in human history. The Battle of the Somme. One hundred years on this major new co-production is directed by Headlong’s Artistic Director, Jeremy Herrin. In the extraordinary circumstances of World War 1, eight ordinary men are changed, changed utterly. This iconic war play by Frank McGuinness is a powerful portrayal of mortality, love and loss.  An Abbey Theatre, Headlong, Citizens Theatre and Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatre co-production.

Fermanagh

The Lady of the Lake is a title that has been associated with Lower Lough Erne, Particularly the area of the great waterway close to Irvinestown, Killadeas, Lisnarick, Castle Archdale and Aughinver. The Lady of the Lake Festival is a Summer Event which takes place every July in Irvinestown, providing 11 days of Fun for All! Folklore has it that the legendary lady walked amongst the mists & islands of Lough Erne bringing a sign of good times ahead! The Festival continues this week until Sunday 24th July.  For details see facebook.com/ladyofthelakefestival.

Tyrone

Enjoy an extravaganza of traditional Irish rock/folk music with Ireland’s best loved and home grown folk rock band, The Whistlin’ Donkeys, this Friday 22nd July at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  Joining them on stage will be guitar legend Johnny Fean and the Siamsa Gael Irish Dance Troup. Throughout the evening the Donkeys will feature some hits from their last top selling album Sung Like A Donkey and for the first time they will play a number of tracks from their forthcoming album and of course a mix of old favourites.  Local singer Brian Hassan will also be joining the Donkeys on stage in an evening not to be missed!

Derry/Londonderry

Taking place in the picturesque seaside town of Portstewart, the Red Sails Festival is a non-profit making festival organised by the Charitable Portstewart Community Association which runs from Sunday 24th July through to Saturday 30th July.  A fabulous week combining a diverse range of entertainment  centred on the Portstewart Promenade  with live music, culture, dance, competitions, ending with a spectacular firework show. The majority of the entertainment and events are free and a wide range of family and children’s activities including workshops, street theatre and talent competition.

Antrim

The Corrymeela Community invites you and your family to join them at their Ballycastle Centre on Sunday 24th July for the Summer Open Day. The Open Day will be an opportunity to visit the Centre, learn about the important work that we do here, chat to community members and find out what we are all about. It’s guaranteed to be a fun-filled day out, in the beautiful setting of the North Coast. On site will be a car wash, BBQ-themed food available to buy, market stalls to peruse, a film-screening and plenty of refreshments. Activities for children will include a site-wide scavenger hunt, games to encourage teamwork and co-operation, environmentally themed crafts, a bouncy castle and face-painting.

Belfast

The smell of the smoke and steam, the sound of the whistle….step back in time on a journey of nostalgia between Belfast Central and Dublin on Sunday 24th July.  Fresh from transporting the Queen on her visit to Northern Ireland on 4th July, at the head of your train will be a steam locomotive that was built especially for the Belfast-Dublin-Cork railway line, in 1932.  Your seats will be in lovingly restored carriages, a train from the 1960’s and 1970’s, complete with fully operational bar and tea-bar.  All of that, and 3 hours to enjoy Dublin before your return journey home.

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.

Sam McCready’s Entertaining Percy French Show for Hewitt Summer School in Armagh.

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One of the  highlights of this year’s  John  Hewitt International Summer School’s  busy programme  at The Market Place Theatre, Armagh,  should be the two performances of  “Percy French: Melodies of Unforgotten Years”, a hugely popular one-man show written and performed by Sam McCready, one of Northern Ireland’s best-known theatre people, now resident much of the year in USA.

This new Percy French show, presented by Two-for-One Productions and directed by Joan McCready, also features musician Kyle Riley, and was a sell-out success when it was staged for a week at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast in May.  “Percy French: Melodies of Unforgotten Years” will be presented at The Market Place on Thursday 28 July at 7.00pm and on Friday 29 July at 8.30pm.

Author of some of the best-loved songs in the Irish repertoire, among them “The Mountains of Mourne” and “Phil The Fluter’s Ball”, Percy French is brought to life in Sam McCready’s witty and amusing one-man show, which celebrates the music and the life of one of Ireland’s best known and best loved entertainers,

Sam McCready’s  highly entertaining show traces Percy French’s career from his days as Cavan’s most notable “Inspector of Drains” to his success as a performer in London, where he not only gave concerts in the most prestigious halls but also performed for the Prince of Wales and distinguished members of the aristocracy.

Yet French was most at home in Ireland, performing in almost every town and village in the country, including Armagh’s City Hall,  and taking the opportunity to paint the many landscapes for which he has become famous as an artist.

Sam McCready is an internationally respected actor, theatre director, teacher, painter, adjudicator and published author.  Born in Belfast, he was a founding member of the Lyric Players Theatre, and later a Trustee and Artistic Director of the company. He emigrated to the United States in 1984, when he was appointed Professor of Theatre at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Since his retirement, Sam McCready has devoted himself to performing and writing a series of one-person plays, “The Great Yeats”, “Dickens at the Ulster Hall” and  writing and directing his wife, Joan, in “Coole Lady” and “A Time to Speak”, both seen on tour at The Market Place Theatre. Sam McCready’s   memoir, “My Life with Mary O’Malley and the Lyric Players”, is published by Lagan Press.

In this  Percy French show, McCready is joined by American actor and singer/guitarist , Kyle Riley, who brings a fine singing voice and a fresh interpretation to many of the best-known songs.

Tickets for “Percy French: Melodies of Unforgotten Years” at The Market Place Theatre on 27 & 28 July are already on sale and early booking is advisable. Booking at The Market Place Box Office on 02837521821 or Online at www.marketplacearmagh.com.

Get Your Skates On! MAC Summer Roller Disco Returns

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Schools out for summer and the MAC’s exceedingly popular retro roller derby returns at the end of July (29-31).

This family roller disco is one of the most feel-good family events of the summer! See the theatre transformed into a roller disco for a weekend of fun for mums, dads and little ones. With sessions starting on the hour from 12noon on Sat 30 and Sun 31 July, this is a family day out you won’t forget. Ticket price includes a 45-minute skate session and the hire of your roller boots and protective gear. Get your skates on!

And just for the adults, our evening skate sessions start from 7pm on Fri 29 and Sat 30 July. With DJ Carolyn Stewart on decks, get nostalgic as party-goers dash excitedly around the transformed theatre to the best of 80’s classics.

For more information on both events, visit themaclive.com or call the box office on 028 9023 5053.

Chris Keys Band to perform this week in Ward Park

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This Sunday, July 24, the Ards and North Down Music In The Park programme continues when the Chris Keys Band will perform in the bandstand in Ward Park.

Award winning singer-songwriter Chris Keys grew up in Portstewart. In his early twenties he started writing songs and developed an easy listening acoustic sound with hints of pop, folk & country.

Since then he has gone on to perform at shows and festivals all across Europe and has supported many great bands and artists along the way as well as performing in the round with two Grammy award winner’s Nanci Griffith and Jim Lauderdale.

So if you’d like to enjoy some smooth sounds in the great outdoors, get down to Ward Park with your picnic this Sunday from 3pm to 5pm. This is a free event.

Please note that Ward Park is an alcohol-free zone. All events are weather dependent and therefore subject to change. This year’s music programme is being provided by Open House Festival.

Keep an eye out in local press each week for details on each artist or for more information phone Bangor Visitor Information Centre on 028 9127 0069 or visit:

www.visitardsandnorthdown.com

What’s On, Ards & North Down, this week and next!

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THIS WEEK, Friday 22 July – Thursday 28 July

Until Sunday 31 July, Sail the Tall Ship Johanna Lucretia

In association with the Skiffie Worlds 2016 the Johanna Lucretia Tall Ship is coming into the area and offering various sailing experiences.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sail on a wonderful tall ship. This Summer, the Johanna Lucretia is in the area for a number of days allowing you the opportunity to board and cruise either Belfast Lough or Strangford Lough!
Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

This event is grant aided by Ards and North Down Borough Council

Until Sunday 31 July, Art in the Loft ‘Mi-NI’: An exhibition by Jewellery Designer Ruth McEwan Lyon

The Loft Gallery, Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

Jewellery Designer Ruth McEwan-Lyon from Holywood presents her collection of Northern Ireland inspired silver jewellery ‘Mi-NI’.

Exhibition open Mon – Sat: 10am – 5pm, Sun: 1pm – 5pm. Free admission.

Info: Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, (028) 4272 9882, portaferryvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Until  Sunday 24 July, Ulster Fleadh 2016

Bangor, various locations

Ards CCÉ are delighted to announce that they will be hosting the Ulster Fleadh 2016 this year in the beautiful seaside resort of Bangor. It will incorporate an impressive combination of literary

events, workshops, seisiúns, street entertainment, concerts, dancing and singing.  The entertainment line-up already includes BEOGA, THE SANDS FAMILY, NA LEANAÍ & RÉALTA plus

many more top notch local musicians/vocalists.

Info: ulsterfleadh.com

This event is grant aided by Ards and North Down Borough Council

Wednesday 20  – Wednesday 27 July, Topper World Championships 2016

Ballyholme Yacht Club, Bangor

Info: BYC, 028 9127 1467, http://ballyholme.com

This event is grant aided by Ards and North Down Borough Council

Friday 22 July, Fair Weather Fridays Outdoor Performances

Conway Square, Newtownards

Free entertainment, 12.30pm-1.30pm

22 Jul: ‘That Man’ presented by Grant Goldie – A celebration of movement and manipulation, combined with skilfully constructed quirky skits. Charming and full of energy.

Part of the free programme of outdoor entertainment running throughout July and August.

In the event of inclement weather the performance will move into Ards Arts Centre!

Info: Ards Arts, 028 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

Saturday 23 July, Family Entertainment

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

Free. 2pm – 4pm

23 July: Science Show, face painting and balloon modelling

Visitor Centre open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm

Info: Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, (028) 4281 9882, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 July, Summer Market at the Museum

North Down Museum, Bangor

Sat 23: 10am – 4.30pm

Sun 24: 12noon – 4.30pm

To celebrate Ulster Fleadh 2016 taking place in Bangor, North Down Museum is

hosting a family market in the beautiful surroundings of the Museum on Saturday 23 July and Sunday 24 July.

Info: North Down Museum, (028) 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 23: Animal Roadshow and magic show

Sun 24: Jumping Clay, balloon modelling and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm, daily. Free admission

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Every Sunday in July and August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park Bandstand, Bangor

Free live performances, every Sunday 3pm-5pm

24 July: Chris Keys Band – Chris is an award winning singer-songwriter hailing from Portstewart, who has developed an easy listening acoustic sound.

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 24 – Saturday 30 July, Skiffie Worlds 2016 and Strangford Lough Festival

Portaferry and Strangford Lough

Competitors from around the world converge on Strangford Lough this July to compete in the community coastal rowing championships

Many events free

Info: (028) 4272 9886, strangfordlough.org/skiffieworlds

NEXT WEEK, Friday 29 July – Thursday 4 August

Friday 29 July, Fair Weather Fridays Outdoor Performances

Conway Square, Newtownards

Free entertainment, 12.30pm-1.30pm

A programme of free outdoor entertainment programme running throughout July and August.

In the event of inclement weather the performance will move into Ards Arts Centre!

Info: Ards Arts, 028 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

Friday 29 July, Arts Night at the Museum

North Down Museum, Bangor

Free, 6pm-9pm

Arts activity for all ages in a great venue – a Friday night with a difference! Try your hand at pottery, printing, sketching and much more, while listening to great music.

Info: North Down Museum, (028) 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

Saturday 30 July, Family Entertainment

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

Free. 2pm – 4pm

30 July: Clayrazy and glitter tattoos

Visitor Centre open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm

Info: Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, (028) 4281 9882, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 30: CSI Detective workshop and children’s crafts

Sun 31: Children’s crafts, Falconry Display and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm, daily. Free admission

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Every Sunday in July and August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park Bandstand, Bangor

Free live performances, every Sunday 3pm-5pm

31 July: Sam Wickens and Band – Soul and Blues tone

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Guided Walks and Tours

Nautical Past Short Sea Cruise – 23 July

From an Abbey to a Stately Home – 23 July

Strangford Lough Boat Tour – 24 July

Newtownards Historical Walking Tour – 28 July

Crawfordsburn to Helen’s Bay Walk – 30 July

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