Author: whatsonni

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan has re-opened Green Lane Museum in the heart of the Roe Valley Country Park, offering visitors the opportunity to explore 19th and 20th century history relating to rural life in the Roe Valley.

There will be temporary exhibitions and craft demonstrations taking place at selected times throughout the spring and summer seasons.

The facility, which is free to visit, is now open every weekend and Bank Holiday between early April and the end of September.

After a period of closure, the museum reopened in April 2023 with the help of the Roe Vally Ancestral Research volunteers.

Since its reopening last year, the museum has welcomed over 4,000 visitors from across the UK, Republic of Ireland and further afield.

It is open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 11am until 3.30pm.

However, ‘Walk and Talk’ tours can be arranged for schools and other groups outside of these hours via a member of Roe Valley Ancestral Researchers.

Opening the museum, Cllr Callaghan said: “I just want to thank our generous volunteers for sacrificing their time and effort to help the public appreciate all that we have here.

“The Museum closed during COVID, but the collection, which is owned by Council, was looked after by Museum Services throughout this time and the building was maintained by DAERA.”

Cllr Callaghan also praised the team of “dedicated council staff” who look after the collection and maintain its accreditation.

“They have supported the Roe Valley Ancestral Researchers in enabling them to open to the public so thanks them also,” he said.

“The museum has been an important part of our Borough, keeping the memories of the past alive and allowing the younger generations to learn about the old ways of life.”

There are number of events coming up at the museum, including visitor portraits on the early May bank holiday and traditional home skills and dressing up on the late May bank Holiday.

For more information on upcoming events, email museums@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk  or follow us on Facebook @CausewayCoastandGlensMuseumServices

Part by Part, a solo exhibition by Louise French has opened in the Sunburst Gallery, Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards. Louise French is a recent graduate of Fine Art Painting from the National Art School, Australia and is interested in the life-cycle of objects.

This exhibition presents a series of paintings and assemblages that engage the viewer in the material qualities of the pieces, while they consider present and future artefacts. By using waste materials for assemblages and as a source for painterly interpretations, the exhibition explores the tension between the aesthetic appeal of consumer objects which at the same time are a toxic token of the current environmental crisis.

By dissecting contemporary waste and considering its continued existence hundreds of years from now, Part by Part will act as a marker of time. The exhibition runs until Thursday 23 May.

Pictures in Rock, an exhibition of photography by Keery Irvine opens in Ards Arts Centre’s Georgian Gallery on Wednesday 17 April. The exhibition is part of Ards International Guitar Festival and will feature a curated selection of Keery Irvine’s career highlights. Expect images of local acts, including Guitar Festival headliner Dom Martin and Life-Time Achievement Award winners Ronnie Greer and Pat McManus.

Keery specialises in photographing Blues and rock gigs and festivals and is the official photographer for the Rory Gallery tribute festivals in Ballyshannon, Dublin, Netherlands and Nantwich. Pictures in Rock runs until Saturday 27 April.

Ards Arts Centre is currently temporarily closed for maintenance work but will reopen on Tuesday 16 April. Everyone is welcome to attend a preview event for both exhibitions in the Arts Centre on Thursday 18 April, 7pm – 9pm.

For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

Australian entertainment icon and bonafide national treasure, Jason Donovan is thrilled to announce his “Doin’ Fine 25” tour, a spectacular celebration of his remarkable career in music, theatre, TV and film. This exciting tour will take fans on a journey through 35 years of hits on stage and screen accompanied by his live band.

Today Jason adds 3 Irish dates to his tour. From April 4th to 6th 2025, the tour will grace Cork’s Opera House, Dublin’s The Helix, and Belfast’s Ulster Hall, promising evenings filled with nostalgia and vibrant performances. presale begins on Thursday 4th April at 10am.. General onsale is on Friday 5th April at 10am. Full details for pre-sale and tickets are available via jasondonovan.com

“I’m so pleased we are getting over to Ireland on this tour” Jason Donovan said, announcing the addition of Irish dates to his “Doin’ Fine 25” tour. “My musical journey has taken me across the globe, but there’s a special joy in bringing the celebration to Ireland, where the warmth of the audience always feels like an embrace. My original 1990 tour included Belfast and Dublin dates and they were amongst the most memorable and fun! And the Irish know how to party!”

Known for his versatility as an actor, singer, and all-around entertainer, Jason Donovan has captivated audiences worldwide. Doin’ Fine 25 is a celebration following the momentous Doin’ Fine 90 tour, still vividly remembered by fans.

The 1990 tour followed a frenzied few years of success. Jason’s debut single, “Nothing Can Divide Us,” had shot to number 5 in the UK charts in September 1988, followed by the iconic duet with Kylie, “Especially For You,” which topped the charts for 14 weeks. The hype around Jason Donovan continued with his first solo UK number one, “Too Many Broken Hearts,” and the chart-topping album “Ten Good Reasons” in 1989.

With an armful of awards for his acting and a growing pile of platinum selling records, 1990 proved to be as much of a career whirlwind as Jason released his second album, “Between The Lines,” and continued to dominate the UK charts with singles like “Hang On To Your Love,” “Another Night,” “Rhythm Of The Rain,” and “I’m Doin’ Fine.” In June of that year, Jason embarked on his “Doin’ Fine 90” tour, performing to thousands of enthusiastic fans in sold-out venues worldwide. Doin’ Fine 25 hopes to invoke some of the memories from that special moment in time.

From pop-mania to the dazzle of London’s West End, Jason took on the lead role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 1991 production of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, solidifying his status as a musical theatre legend. Jason has gone on to star in massive shows like ’The Rocky Horror Show’, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, ‘Priscilla’, ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Annie Get Your Gun’, ‘Jeff Wayne’s ‘The War Of The Worlds’, ‘The King’s Speech’ and ‘Grease’.

With a career spanning over three decades, Jason has amassed a rich catalogue of hits, and “Doin’ Fine 25” is set to be a sensational culmination of his outstanding achievements to date. The tour promises to be a night of unforgettable entertainment and musical memories. Jason will perform a dynamic selection of his most beloved songs from stage productions plus he will also cover his pop music career, a stream of chart-topping hits – “Too Many Broken Hearts”, “Especially For You”, “Any Dream Will Do” and ‘Sealed With a Kiss” and many more fan favourites.

“I am really excited about this tour,” said Jason. “My musical journey has been an incredible ride, and I can’t wait to celebrate it by performing the songs that have been such an important part of my life and career. It’s going to be a fantastic show, and I look forward to sharing these unforgettable moments with the audience.”

IRISH SHOW DATES

• 4th April 2025 – Cork – Opera House
• 5th April 2025 -Dublin – The Helix
• 6th April 2025 – Belfast – Ulster Hall,

Full information is available at jasondonovan.com

Treat yourself to an afternoon of exceptional choral performance set within the charming setting of Armagh’s historic Primates Chapel

On Saturday 6^th April, Chamber Choir Ireland will present a small, yet perfectly formed, quartet of part-songs and miniatures, spanning the centuries.

Paring back the full choral sound to its most basic form, an intimate experience of hearing four exquisite voices perform everything from Palestrina to Gershwin including new works by Rhona Clarke, Stephen McNeff and Eoghan Desmond.

Garnering a strong reputation for tis unique approach to creative commissioning, recording and programming, Chamber Choir Ireland is the country’s flagship choral ensemble and national chamber choir under the Artstic Direction of the multi-award-winning conductor, Paul Hillier.

The choir’s programmes span from early renaissance to the present day, incorporating established choral classics with cutting edge commissions, and a style of performance that incorporates versatility, dynamism and often vocal pyrotechnics.

‘The Ulster Orchestra on your Doorstep’ will perform at the Primatial Chaple, Palace Demesne, Armagh on Saturday 6^th April at 2.30pm. Tickets are priced at £13 (general sale) and £11 (concession).

Tickets for all shows can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

The much-anticipated Ballymoney Spring Fair makes its return on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th April

Enjoy two days of free live music, including special guests Ritchie Remo and Hugo Duncan, with lots of family-friendly activities to enjoy across the weekend.

Organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and sponsored by KRD Credit Union with support from Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce and FUSE FM, 2024 will bring the biggest and best fair to date.

This year, many venues are hosting activities in the town centre and there will be an even bigger choice of have-a-go activities on offer in Seymour Street. Council is also introducing a showcase of traditional maypole dancing at the fair for the first time ever.

Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Margaret Anne McKillop, who is looking forward to the fair said: “Ballymoney Spring Fair is a yearly event we all look forward to and it’s fantastic to hear that this year’s event will feature maypole dancing.

“This event has grown from year to year, and I know the businesses in the town always look forward to an event that really showcases what Ballymoney town centre has to offer for locals and visitors.

“I’d encourage you to bring friends and family along to what no doubt promises to be a fun filled 2 days this April.”

On Friday, the town will host the fantastic Hugo Duncan, who will be broadcasting his BBC Radio Ulster show live from Castlecroft Square. Before Hugo kicks off at 1.30pm, the Spring Fair Tea Dance will provide some old favourites with Steve Farlow in Ballymoney Town Hall from 11am. No need to book, just turn up with your dancing shoes on!

FUSE FM Ballymoney and CJ Entertainments will also be providing live music and entertainment in Castlecroft Square from 11am – 4pm.

The Visitor Information Centre will host a taste sampling session of award-winning local artisan products from 10.30am – 4pm on Friday, while Council’s Museums Service will have fun activities for the little ones to enjoy in their new children’s area.

On Saturday, look out for vintage cars, live music, dance displays and a showcase of the best artisan produce at Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market. The market will be located at Castlecroft Square in the town centre from 11am – 4pm on Friday and Saturday and a pop-up market will be on Church Street on Saturday.

Quiet Time Activities will be running on Church Street and Seymour Street from 11am – 12 noon on Saturday, providing an opportunity for individuals with additional needs to enjoy some of the activities on offer. Activities and entertainment commence from 12 noon across the town.

Castlecroft Square will be the hub of entertainment from 12-4pm with special guest Ritchie Remo. Opening the fair will be Kelly Neill Dance Company performing their own dances and a special new for 2024 maypole dance performance! FUSE FM and CJ entertainments will keep you entertained until Ritchie graces the stage at 12.30pm.

As Ritchie gets people up on their feet in Castlecroft, Ravara Obedience and Agility Club will be getting the pups off their feet and over obstacles in Taggarts Yard. Bring your dog along if you think they can finish the obstacle tests, or just sit back in amazement at the very clever dogs the club has trained.

Head down to Seymour Street where a variety of free fun rides and carnival games await you and the family – who will master mini golf or win a prize at a carnival game?

Setting off from the Town Hall and travelling along High Street, Main Street and Meeting House Street, the carnival parade and vintage car cavalcade will commence at 3.30pm.

Old time cars will join the spring-themed spectacle of floats, kids, music, and colour, with a wealth of independent boutiques and businesses in the town offering Spring Fair special offers. You can also treat yourself to some retail therapy.

Don’t forget to be ready to find the special rocks hidden around the town as Ballymoney Rocks have a special treasure rock hunt, pick up an entry form from the Visitor Information Centre.

For more information about the event visit  www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com and make sure to follow Causeway Coast and Glens Events on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

12 partner charities, Pieta and Electric Ireland are joined by Sunrise Social founder Caroline McKenna to launch Darkness into Light 2024

Organised walks to take place at 15 locations across Northern Ireland as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May.

Darkness Into Light, Pieta’s annual fundraising event which raises vital funds for local mental health partner charities, is back. Proudly supported by Electric Ireland, this year’s event will take place as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May and will see thousands of participants take part in the 15 official walks across Northern Ireland.

At last night’s launch in Belfast City Centre [Tuesday, 26 March], Pieta and Electric Ireland were joined by representatives from 12 local mental health charities and Darkness Into Light 2024 ambassador Caroline McKenna, to invite people across Northern Ireland to sign up and take part in this year’s fundraising event.

Speaking at the launch, DIL 2024 ambassador and founder of Sunrise Social Caroline McKenna, said, “I am honoured to be an ambassador for Darkness Into Light. It is an event I have supported for many years, and I am honoured to have come on board this year in a more official capacity. Darkness Into Light is a truly special event. Beginning in darkness and continuing through to dawn, the 5km walk symbolises the journey from despair to hope. It is an opportunity for communities to come together, foster the sense of hope and raise crucial funds to support people in the community who need it most. So please, sign up and join us for the most important sunrise of the year and see the difference your support makes to local communities across Northern Ireland.”

In the past decade, Darkness Into Light has raised over £1 million for Northern Ireland partner charities and Pieta to help with issues of suicide, self-harm, and mental health.

This year, people in every county in Northern Ireland are encouraged to sign up to participate in one of 15 organised walks, or to take part in their own way, and in doing so support the charities in their local area that are providing vital services to those in need.

Stephanie Manahan, CEO, Pieta, said, “Darkness Into Light is not just an event; it is a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where every individual feels supported and valued. Together, with Electric Ireland’s support and the collective efforts of our participants, volunteer committees and communities across the Island of Ireland, we can continue to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and provide support to those in crisis.

Bill Coyle, NI Residential Manager, Electric Ireland, commented, “Electric Ireland is very proud of our ongoing support for Pieta and Darkness Into Light over the last twelve years of our partnership. Each year, we work with Pieta to create marketing and fundraising campaigns to promote awareness of this incredible event and encourage as many people as possible to participate and support. The power of Darkness Into Light is in its ability to bring hope and consolation to communities across the country and to raise much needed funds for the vital services provided by Pieta and partner charities in Northern Ireland. This movement reflects our values as an organisation and our determination to make the world brighter for our customers, staff and the communities we serve.”

The 12 partner charities across Northern Ireland provide easily accessible, free of charge services, which are available online, by phone or in person. Darkness Into Light plays a crucial role in enabling Pieta’s partner charities in Northern Ireland to uphold their commitment to providing suicide prevention, intervention, and bereavement support services to individuals of all ages throughout Northern Ireland, ensuring that help is always within reach when it’s needed most.

Sign up today at www.darknessintolight.com

#DIL2024

Renowned Irish comedian, Conal Gallen, is back on tour this year with his hilarious one-man stand-up show. Conal is well known for his hilarious humour and has been entertaining audiences worldwide for over 30 years.

He’s even had the pleasure of performing in front of the Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, and several other well-known English pubs!

Don’t miss your chance to see the master of comedy at work as Conal Gallen brings his Funny Business to the stage this year. Book your seats now to secure your place at a night filled with unforgettable laughter.

Conal Gallen will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Friday 5^th and Saturday 6^th April at 8p. Tickets are priced at £25

Tickets for all shows can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.