Author: whatsonni

Legendary songwriter and musician Bob Dylan will return to the UK and Ireland in 2025 for a string of dates that includes stops in Belfast, Killarney and Dublin.

‘The Peerless Dylan roadshow’

BELFAST – Waterfront Hall

19 & 20 NOVEMBER

KILLARNEY – INEC, Gleneagle Arena

23 & 24 NOVEMBER

DUBLIN – 3Arena

25 NOVEMBER

The acclaimed Rough and Rowdy Ways tour is just the latest chapter in an unparalleled career. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Friday 18th July.

This summer, Dylan will perform across the US, before crossing the UK and Ireland this November including dates in Belfast, Killarney and Dublin.

Dylan’s first gig in the UK was at The King & Queen pub in Fitzrovia, London, in 1962, while he first played Ireland at the Adelphi Cinema on his famous 1966 world tour.

The release of new music in 2020 surprised and delighted fans, with the album Rough and Rowdy Ways dominating end-of-year lists and marking another milestone in the career of one of the great artists of modern times.

These upcoming concerts are an opportunity to experience this great artist on stage for a

series of very special evenings. The shows are in partnership with Yondr who will prohibit the use of video cameras and mobile phones, making the occasion even more unique.

PRAISE FOR ROUGH AND ROWDY WAYS TOUR

‘Peerless Dylan roadshow’ – Financial Times ***** ‘A masterclass in musical intimacy’ – Uncut **** ‘Utterly unpredictable’ – The Guardian ****

‘Vitality and passion, generous good humour’ – Mojo

WWW.BOBDYLAN.COM

Click here for TOUR DATES

Tickets for BOB DYLAN go on sale Friday 18 JULY AT 10AM from

www.ticketmaster.ie

Tickets for Belfast will also be available from

www.waterfront.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK www.aikenpromotions.com

World-class pianists, electrifying performances, and a celebration of musical excellence await from 11–18 July in Derry, Northern Ireland.

This summer, the historic Walled City of Derry will come alive with the sound of music as the Walled City Music International Academy launches its highly anticipated 2025 programme on Friday, 11 July. Over the course of eight dynamic days, the city will host 30 exceptional young pianists from across the globe, all set to train, perform, and compete under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty of master musicians.

Led by Academy Director and Derry native, Cathal Breslin, the Academy promises a packed programme of concerts, competitions, masterclasses, lectures, and workshops, offering unparalleled development opportunities for the next generation of piano stars.

This year’s stellar line-up of tutors includes:

• Cathal Breslin (Arizona State University, USA)
• Thérèse Fahy (Royal Irish Academy of Music, Dublin)
• Ghadeer Abaido (University of South Florida, USA)
• Chu-Fang Huang (Ameri-China International Music Foundation, USA)
• Svetozar Ivanov (University of South Florida, USA)
• Ksenia Nosikova (University of Iowa, USA)
• Xiaofeng Wu (Nanjing University, China)

In partnership with Ulster University and Yamaha, the Academy will not only challenge students through an intensive programme of study but will also bring music into the heart of the community through public concerts in venues such as Christ Church and The Great Hall at Magee Campus, as well as outreach performances at Foyle Hospice, NW Cancer Centre, Foyleside Shopping Centre, and the NW Transport Hub.

Two gala concerts featuring the Academy’s distinguished faculty are open to the public and promise to be highlights of the cultural calendar. On Friday 11 July in The Great Hall: “The Piano Reimagined” – a captivating evening dedicated to the power and range of solo piano. On Wednesday 16 July in Christ Church: “The Piano Multiplied” – a celebration of collaboration through piano duets and ensemble works, showcasing everything from four-hand pieces to thrilling eight-hand performances.

The Academy will culminate in a thrilling two-round international piano competition, with the first round open to all students. Finalists, selected by the esteemed jury, will compete in the Closing Gala Finale Competition, which is open to the public on Friday 18 July, where the most promising talents will vie for top honours and international recognition.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of classical piano in the making. For concert details and tickets, visit www.walledcitymusic.com.

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is launching a brand-new interactive experience this summer — the Stellar Science Lab Exhibition — running through to the end of August 2025.

Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this hands-on exhibition invites visitors to explore the wonders of physics and beyond, with 12 exciting science stations designed to engage, entertain and inspire. Whether you’re a budding young scientist, an enthusiastic experimenter or simply looking for a fun family day out, the Stellar Science Lab promises plenty of opportunities to learn through play.

Visitors will be able to get hands-on with each station, discovering how the world works through experiments that spark imagination and ignite a passion for science.

Ria McDonnell, Senior Education officer at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, said: “The Stellar Science Lab is all about encouraging curiosity and creativity. We want visitors of all ages to get involved, exploring physics in an exciting, accessible way. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a regular, it’s a brilliant new experience that complements everything we offer at the Planetarium.”

The Stellar Science Lab Exhibition is just one of many fantastic attractions at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. Families can also enjoy interactive exhibitions, the sensory room, and beautifully maintained grounds — or opt to experience one of the spectacular dome shows running throughout the summer (dome show tickets include access to the Stellar Science Lab).

It’s the perfect day out this summer for families looking to combine fun with learning, all in a truly unique setting.

Armagh Planetarium is open 10am–5pm daily, and tickets for the Stellar Science Lab are valid for arrival at any time during opening hours. Visitors can book an Exhibition Only ticket for access to the Stellar Science Lab, the main exhibition space and general admission, or enjoy full access with a Dome Show ticket.

To find out more and to book tickets, visit:
https://armaghobservatoryplanetarium.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173660708

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming experience for all visitors. Selected dome shows and events are offered as Relaxed Performances (R) — with reduced volume, softer lighting, and smaller audience sizes — to create a more comfortable environment. We also offer Signed Performances (S) with BSL/ISL interpretation at selected times. The main exhibition spaces, sensory room and Stellar Science Lab are fully accessible. Visitors are encouraged to check individual show listings and the website for full accessibility details, or to contact the team directly with any specific needs.

The first legal street art wall in Belfast will officially open this Friday 4 July with a free street art paint jam for up-and-coming artists and creatives.

The wall, funded by Belfast City Council, is located on Little Patrick Street in the city centre and will be managed by Seedhead Arts, with permissions from NIE Networks which owns the wall.

It is the first of three walls due to be open this year, providing a place for artists to freely express themselves, without the need to seek permissions from landowners to house their artworks.

It is hoped the legal walls, as they are known, will deter graffiti in the city. They are the latest initiative from the council to support street artists and nurture creative development.

The locations for the other two walls are still to be finalised, with engagement ongoing between council, Seedhead Arts and property owners.

“Belfast already has an impressive array of street art which has become a huge draw for visitors and really brightens up our city for residents and communities too,” explains Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly.

“We want to harness that creative spirit and create further opportunities for young artists by offering them safe spaces where they can create, practice and experiment without fear of getting into trouble.

“Legal walls have long been used in Europe to nurture artists and encourage collaborative art projects, and I’m pleased that our first Belfast wall is now in place.

“We know graffiti and tagging can be real issues for businesses and communities so we hope that these walls will also help reduce nuisance behaviour, by instead providing a place where creativity can be freely expressed.

“Council is really keen to encourage creative development in the city. Our Belfast Canvas project has transformed over 110 utility boxes since 2019 and provided a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work, and we’re currently helping a further six street artists with mentoring and coaching to develop their skills.”

Adam Turkington from Seedhead Arts will help operate the wall at Great Patrick Street. It will be open 24/7 for professional and emerging artists to use, along with anyone with an interest in street art.

No booking is needed, but the wall will be continuously monitored to manage content and ensure it is well maintained.

“Legal walls are a key building block for any city wanting to support its artistic community and, although there are spaces in the city that have been unofficially legal for some time, this is the first time that Belfast has a formally designated a space in this way,” said Adam.

“In particular, in Belfast, where we have a huge number of young women who are street artists, this will hopefully provide a space where they can safely meet and practice their skills.”

Artists can check out and use the first legal wall at a free street art party on Little Patrick Street, run by Seedhead Arts, from 12pm to 4pm on Friday 4 July.

Admission is free and open to everyone. Some materials will be available, but artists are also encouraged to bring their own.

Further details are available on the council website – belfastcity.gov.uk/events

The Negotiator – which examines the life and work of the man credited for bringing the Good Friday Agreement into being, Senator George Mitchell, has been announced as a major new addition to the Galway Film Fleadh, Ireland’s leading film event.

The Fine Point Films documentary, directed by journalist and filmmaker Trevor Birney (No Stone Unturned; Quinn Country, Cyndi Lauper: Let the Canary Sing, Kneecap) and developed in association with Queen’s University Belfast, follows Birney as he profiles US Senator George Mitchell, whose leadership in securing the Good Friday Agreement transformed life for entire generations in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Youth Ballet Company, High Points Youth Ballet, will return this summer with Belfast International Ballet Festival welcoming dancers from across the world to the city.

From 28 July – 2 August 2025, over 100 students and professionals will train in a number of venues including the Crescent Arts and High Points Studios, culminating in a series of performances in the MAC celebrating local and international dance. Bringing masterclasses alongside performances, guest teachers and dancers based in USA, Turkey, Italy, Ukraine, Germany, Portugal, Ireland and Scotland will be joined by local dancers, composers and choreographers. Supported by Belfast City Council, over 60 dancers from Northern Ireland’s Ballet community will come together to share artistic talent, unleash creativity, celebrate diversity and embrace collaboration over the 6 days of dance and performance.

Set to join this year’s illustrious line up Ayfer Zeren and Sara-Maria Barton will co-lead the festivals youth and adult dance master classes. From Istanbul, Ayfer boasts a remarkable career as a ballerina, artistic director and ballet educator. Working with Royal Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet and Bolshoi Theatre, she has performed across the world. Alongside Ayfer, Sara Maria Barton is Artistic Director of S-MB Company and has over 30 years of teaching experience as a Classical Ballet Tutor. An international medallist, Sara-Maria has worked with Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, and Scottish Ballet, and has danced across UK, Europe, USA, and China. Both Ayfer and Sara will bring their students to perform in the Festival performances at The MAC Belfast.

From America, Angela Zielen, Director of The Art Society at Loblolly Acres Delaware will participate in the festival. Angela has danced with the First State Ballet Theatre and is the former Assistant Director of the National Ballet Competition. Joining Angela from USA Stephen Everson will make his second visit to the festival. Trained at Ballet 5:8 School of the Arts, and Project Ballet, and former guest artist with Charleston Ballet Theatre, Stephen has performed in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.

From the Ukraine, dancers Oleksii Kniazkov and Elizavita Gogidze will bring their extensive experience working in professional ballet and will dance a pas de deux (partner dance) from Le Corsaire. A classical ballet Elizaveta has danced on stages in Europe, Asia, Canada, Argentina, Dubai, USA and England. A graduate at Kyiv State Ballet School in Ukraine, she was the first soloist of the National Opera of Ukraine. Also from Ukraine, Oleksii Kniazkov is Principal dancer with Kharkiv National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Awarded the Grand Prix of International Dance in 2018, his many leading roles include Romeo and Juliet, Spartacus, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty.

This year five professional artists from Northern Ireland will join the festival, including as a Choreographer Belfast-native Anna McCoy, currently dancing with Semperoper Ballet Dresden, and co-founders of Six Dance Collective, Composer Amelia Clarkson from Donaghadee and Choreographer Ruaidhrí Maguire, currently working with Ballet Ireland. Dancers Anna Katherine McCoy and Leigh Alderson will perform a world premiere, Zlatý Motýlek (meaning Golden Butterfly), together, whilst Rachel Neale will perform a variation from Carmen. Current vocational students and alumni of HPYB’s training programme Georgia Crawford, Amy Crawford, and Lauren McConnell will perform during the festival, alongside former rugby player turned ballet dancer Oscar Hunter.  Ballet Historian Amy Growcott will deliver a lecture on Saturday 2^nd August whilst students from the Irish National Youth Ballet, directed by Lindsay Ashe-Browne, will perform a selection of the piece ‘Eclipse’ choreographed by Zoë Ashe-Browne.

High Points Youth Ballet, formed in 2011 under the leadership of Rana O’Brien, and its international team of Artistic Director Jake Allison and Creative Director Anna Carapellotti, are spearheading the festival. They will bring together leading dancers from home and across the world. Jake and Anna will deliver ballet technique classes and stage selections from classical repertoire on the High Points Youth Ballet dancers for two shows to be presented in the MAC on 1 and 2 August 2025.

Commenting ahead of Belfast International Ballet Festival, High Points Youth Ballet CEO, Rana O’Brien said: “We are delighted and excited to return with this event highlighting dance artists and educators from across the world and locally. The festival will feature numerous dancers who will collaborate to create new pieces. The festival will involve young dancers aged 10 and upwards, who will attend master classes at High Points studios and the Crescent Arts Centre studios. They will rehearse and perform 3 shows at the MAC on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 August, to showcase their skills and share their performances with family and friends.”

“To deliver such quality requires support and investment, and we appreciate the ongoing support from Belfast City Council through the cultural grants scheme,” concluded Rana.

Councillor Ian McLaughlin, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “Council is delighted to support High Points Youth Ballet and their hosting of this year’s Belfast International Ballet Festival.

“Belfast has a thriving cultural and arts scene and our community plan, Belfast Agenda, recognises culture and creativity as essential to delivering better health and well-being for our citizens.  Events like this play a vital role in our cultural strategy, A City Imagining, and provide an opportunity to inspire and nurture our next generation of creative talent in the city.”

During the festival Anna Carapellotti, a dance researcher, will deliver a dance class for people living with Parkinson’s on Friday 1 August. This class will feature music and adapted repertoire to be featured in the gala performances. Anna obtained a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast in 2022 studying the impact of dance for people living with Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.

The week-long festival will culminate in two shows on Friday 1 August (evening performance) and Saturday 2 August (afternoon matinee). For tickets, visit www.maclive.com. Follow @belfastballetfestival for updates.

For festival information visit www.highpointsballet.org.uk/belfast-international-ballet-festival