Author: whatsonni

Torvill and Dean The SSE Arena, Belfast

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Skating legends Jayne Torvill & Christopher Dean have returned to Sarajevo today (14th February) to commemorate their historic Gold medal winning performance to Ravel’s Bolero at the 1984 Winter Olympics – 40 years to the day. Torvill & Dean also announced today that they will be retiring from skating together in spring 2025, when they embark on their last ever live UK tour: ‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’

Kicking off at London’s OVO Arena in Wembley on 12 April, this will be the very last chance to see the world’s most famous skating superstars in action on the ice together. The 28 date tour will travel across the UK, culminating at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on 11 May for their final performance and their last dance. Tickets go on sale at 8.00am on ‘Bolero Day’ (as Jayne and Chris affectionately call it), 14 February, from www.TorvillandDean.com and www.ticketmaster.ie

Following an invitation from the Mayor of Sarajevo to visit the city to mark the 40th anniversary of the Winter Olympics, Torvill & Dean are there today reliving the memories four decades on of their iconic heart-stopping performance which had a UK television audience of 24 million people on the edge of their seats. It became one of the greatest sporting moments of the 20th Century and set a new standard for world-class figure skating.

‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’ UK Tour will be the last time that Jayne and Chris will perform on ice together, 50 years since they formed their incredible skating partnership – giving audiences one last chance to see and celebrate the iconic duo.

Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean said: “Following the kind invitation from the Mayor, we are thrilled to be back in Sarajevo 40 years on from that memorable day. Returning to the city which provided such a life-changing moment for us is incredibly nostalgic and brings back so many wonderful memories. We’re also feeling very emotional as we announce our 2025 farewell tour: ‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’. Whilst we will continue to work together off the ice, this will be the final time we will skate together following our 50-year partnership. But not without celebrating one final time with all of our incredible fans across the UK, who have supported us constantly over many years. We promise to put on an amazing live show – and we really hope to see you there!”

Torvill & Dean are back on ITV1 every Sunday night, as Head Judges on the new series of Dancing on Ice.

Young Aspects Welcomes Big Wave Surfer Al Mennie

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Aspects Festival is delighted to welcome Al Mennie to its Young Aspects programme. The Big Wave Surfer, writer and athlete will be giving a special talk in Studio 1A, Bangor on Friday 1 March. Author of several children’s books, Al will share insights into his writing journey and what inspires him.

Al Mennie is probably best known for his big wave surfing exploits. From humble beginnings playing on the beach at Castlerock to eventually becoming a pioneer of big wave surfing in both Ireland and at the infamous location of Nazare in Portugal.

​Al is also a writer and has written a number of books, from an autobiography to books to help adults and children with fear, anxieties and being confident. His book Confident Kris tells the story of Kris and his life as a Viking child living with his widowed mum. It explains how he uses strength and confidence to combat fears and worries, and to not let other people’s opinions impact him. The book deals with bullying and how to make sure you don’t waste a minute of your day. Al’s latest book Billy the Basking Shark is designed to educate young people on the importance of protecting nature and the ocean from pollution.​

Speaking about his Aspects appearance, Al said: “I have been writing almost every day since I was a child. I am inspired by life and the environment around me and I look forward to speaking to the audience about this at Young Aspects Festival”. 

Aspects Festival Director, Patricia Hamilton said: “We are delighted to welcome Al Mennie to our Young Aspects programme. Al is an inspiration and I’m sure our audience will enjoy hearing about his writing. I would encourage everyone to book a ticket and come along.”

Young Aspects is presented by Ards and North Down Borough Council and will run from 1 – 3 March at various locations around Bangor. Tickets are on sale now.

To view the full programme and to book tickets, visit: https://aspectsfestival.com/whats-on

DEMENTIA NI LAUNCHES NEW EMPOWERMENT GROUP IN BALLYMONEY

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As part of its ongoing mission to improve the lives of people living with dementia, leading local charity Dementia NI has chosen Ballymoney as the location for its new Empowerment Group, with the launch event taking place on Thursday 22nd February 2024, 12pm-2pm, at Ballymoney Town Hall, 1 Townhead Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6BE.

Dementia NI has more than 12 Empowerment Groups across the whole of Northern Ireland. These Groups provide a place for local people in the early to middle stages of dementia to come together, share experiences and provide peer support to one another. The Groups are also a place for Dementia NI members to press for changes in policy and services and challenge the stigma of dementia.

The charity is inviting everyone in the local area to join them for their Dementia NI Engage and Connect launch event. Whether you would like to talk with Dementia NI members about their experiences of living with dementia or are looking for information on practical support available in your local area, Dementia NI encourages you to come along. The event also offers the chance to find out about volunteering and fundraising opportunities with Dementia NI.

Dementia NI Founding Member John McErlane, who set up the charity with four other people with dementia after being diagnosed in his early fifties, comments, “I am delighted that Dementia NI is starting an Empowerment Group in Ballymoney. Bringing people together with a dementia diagnosis is very powerful. We can learn a great deal from each other as we are all in the same boat. Starting a new group in Ballymoney is very exciting for me, the new members and the people of Ballymoney”.

Reflecting on the support he received following his diagnosis with early onset dementia seven years ago, Dementia NI Member and Trustee, Davie McElhinney, 60, says, “Since joining Dementia NI, the support I’ve received has really helped me. After my first group meeting, I felt better. Getting to meet the other members has provided me with confidence and a new outlook.”

Commenting on the upcoming event, Conor Lawell, Empowerment Facilitator at Dementia NI, says, “Dementia NI is coming to Ballymoney with some of our existing members and championing our message of hope – that with the right support, it is possible to live well with dementia. We invite members of the public to join us to come and hear what we have to offer. We look forward to seeing you on the day.’’

Come and talk to the Dementia NI team, get involved and help the charity make a real difference to the lives of local people. See you there!

For further information on Dementia NI’s Empowerment Groups, please contact Empowerment Facilitator Conor Lawell on 07734 375 583 or email conor@dementiani.org

To find out more about the work of Dementia NI, visit our website at www.dementiani.org

Walking Festival 2024 showcases spectacular Glens of Antrim

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is encouraging visitors to explore spectacular walking routes in Ballycastle and the Glens of Antrim during the upcoming Walking Festival 2024 from Friday March 15 – Sunday March 17.

Local activity providers, Far and Wild will deliver the festival – now in its 4th year – over a variety of stunning forest, mountain and clifftop trails, highlighting the unique history, heritage and mythology surrounding this location.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “The quality and variety of walking trails within our Borough is unsurpassed and the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival provides a valuable opportunity for visitors to the destination and residents of the borough to discover the beauty of our mountain trails and coastal paths.

“I am delighted to welcome walking enthusiasts to discover our magnificent landscape and scenery, both on popular routes and lesser-known paths.”

Kerrie McGonigle, Council’s Destination Tourism Manager added: “The Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival 2024 further enriches the superb walking product available to visitors in the Borough and adds to the world class visitor experience that the Causeway Coastal Route offers.”

The Walking Festival begins on March 15, with ‘Fairy Lore and the Glens’, a moderate looped way marked walk on Ronan’s Way, taking in the historic landscape of one of the nine Glens of Antrim, Glendun.

This walk showcases the environmental and human heritage of the Glens and how local lore governs the ways native populations have interacted with landscape down the ages.

The second day of the Festival on March 16 explores ‘The Living Edge: Where the Land Meets the Sea’, along the dramatic cliff-scape at Fairhead and Murlough Bay, overlooking the Sea of Moyle.

This walk will illuminate the connection with Rathlin Island and the Scottish western seaboard through the ages, from the pre-Christian period to the modern era.

The final walk of the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival on March 17 will take place on open country, trails and minor roads, on the challenging ascent to the summit of Lurigethan Mountain.

With ancient remains dating from neolithic times and beyond, ‘Settlement in an Iconic Landscape’ entwines history with glacial geology in a breathtaking location overlooking Waterfoot Bay and Cushendall.

Accompanied children over 12 years can be accommodated on these walks, but the adjacent high cliffs and steepness of the ascent should be noted by parents.

These walks are suitable for everyone with good fitness levels and walkers with prior hillwalking experience.

Waterproofs and hiking boots are required and a packed lunch with at least one litre of water is recommended.

The nature of the landscape determines that unfortunately dogs cannot be accommodated on these walks.

Each walk is £10 per person, including refreshments, and bookings can be made via https://www.farandwild.org/causeway-coast-and-glens-walking-festival.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 5-11 February

  1. The Blue Lights Story, Belfast, County Antrim, 7 February. As part of the 4 Corners Festival, the screen writers behind the highly successful BBC TV show will take part in an evening of conversation followed by a question and answer session. Screen writers Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson will be in All Saints College in West Belfast, where part of the first series was filmed. To book this event visit the website.
  1. Irish Spirits & Chocolate – The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin, County Down, 10 February. Begin your visit with a hands-on experience as you are guided through the process of making chocolate truffles by Geri before you enjoy a spirits and chocolate tasting session. Complete your afternoon with a visit to the distillery shop, then stroll through the historic Echlinville Estate and the visitor walkways. To book this experience visit the website.
  2. Homes in Focus: Cruckaclady Farmhouse, Cultra, County Down, 10 February. This is one of a series of intimate talks that take place in one of the Ulster Folk Museum’s many beautiful buildings. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, at Cruckaclady Farmhouse to learn how it was cleverly constructed and discover what life was like for those who lived here during the early 1900s.
  3. Belfast Punk Music Walking Tour, Belfast, County Antrim, 10 February. Explore the story of punk music in Belfast, which is now recognised as a UNESCO City of Music. Find out more about bands like the Outcasts, Rudi, Stiff Little Fingers, and Victim. See some of the sites celebrated in the film ‘Good Vibrations’, lauding Terri Hooley’s role as the Godfather of Belfast punk and round off your tour with a trip to the Oh Yeah Music Centre to discover some great punk memorabilia.
  4. Tully Castle, Blaney, County Fermanagh. This atmospheric ruin is located on the southern shore of Lower Lough Erne. This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641, when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire. It was never lived in again. It’s free to look around and is a lovely spot for a wander. Check out the visitors’ centre in a restored farmhouse, with exhibitions of local stories relating to the castle.
  5. Derry’s Famous Beer & Cheese Tour, Claudy, County Londonderry, 9 February. A real treat for the tastebuds awaits at Dart Mountain Cheese & Northbound Brewery. Indulge in the best of both worlds – beer and cheese. Discover the perfect pairings and learn about the fascinating process of crafting these culinary delights.
  6. Ardress House, Portadown, County Armagh. A wonderful place to take in the best of the season on the grounds of this 17th century National Trust Property. This is a real feast for the senses. Walk amidst stunning woodlands, admire the blankets of snowdrops, berries on bare branches and primroses peeking through the hedgerow. Listen to the chorus of robins, finches, blue tits, starlings, and if you time it right, enjoy the swirling birds overhead with some wonderful winter sunsets. No admission until March, so it’s a perfect time to visit wherever you are in Northern Ireland.
  7. QEST Northern Ireland Showcase Exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, throughout February. This partnership between Craft NI and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) supports the training and education of talented and aspiring craftspeople across the UK. This exhibition at the Craft NI gallery in Belfast city centre brings together the work of 17 QEST alumni. There’s a huge range of crafts and talent on display from glass, handloom weaving, willow sculpture and hand crafted silver.
  8. Bessy Bell Walk, Omagh, County Tyrone. This is a pleasant and interesting walk showcasing the beautiful and unique terrain of the Sperrins landscape. Starting at the Mellon Country Inn, the track travels along the main road before turning uphill on a country lane. The track ascends the summit through a variety of tarmac, rough grassland and heather, where walkers will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding area. This walk is approximately six miles in total.
  9.  ‘Derry Woodland’ Cycle Tour, County Londonderry, 10 February. An expert local guide will accompany you from St Columbus Park in the heart of the buzzing city centre along the Foyle Greenway. You will cycle across the Peace Bridge and along the river. There’ll be refreshments at the half-way stage in the arboretum area of Brookhall Estate including a hot beverage and a finger buffet with a range of local artisan food. On your return to the city, you will cross back from the west to the east bank of the River Foyle and learn the myth which gives the river is name.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Fitzwilliam Hotel, County Antrim

Fancy some five-star pampering in the heart of Belfast? This hotel is perfectly placed to allow you explore the city’s shopping and nightlife. Located next door to the Grand Opera House, this hotel is chic and contemporary with helpful staff offering a warm welcome. Enjoy a delicious two-course meal and a luxurious overnight stay, with a hearty breakfast in the morning, from £230 per room B&B based on two people sharing. Visit www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com for more information.

An Creagán, County Tyrone

Set in the breath-taking surroundings of the Sperrins, between Omagh and Cookstown, this centre offers a range a of self-catering cottages. All accommodation is four-star, built in a traditional style with all the cosy comforts you could wish for. The two bed and three bed cottages are all wheelchair accessible. Indulge in seasonal ingredients and local produce at the onsite restaurant with a delicious lunch or light snack. The centre is a great base to explore this area’s charms from the nearby Beaghmore Stone Circle or artist Thomas Dambo’s three wooden giants on the Sperrin Sculpture Trail. A one bed cottage is £340 for two nights at the weekend or the same price for three nights midweek. Prices start fom £440 for a three-bed cottage. Visit https://ancreagan.com for more information.

Number 1 Barn Lane, County Londonderry

This stunning three-bedroomed property is set in an area of outstanding beauty, overlooking Lough Foyle and the Donegal Hills with uninterrupted views of the Sperrins. This contemporary property, designed by award winning architects, boasts three double bedrooms and three bathrooms over two floors. The master bedroom has a four-poster bed and ensuite. The ground floor is open plan with a cosy log burner, a well-equipped kitchen, all with fabulous views of the open countryside. A wonderful place to relax and unwind. The Hotbox Sauna has just opened its rural retreat a one-minute walk away! Enjoy a two-night spring stay from £42 pp per night based on six people sharing. Visit https://drumagosker.co.uk for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Art Exhibition That Challenges Misconceptions About Dementia Opens In Newtownards

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The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, officially opened Dementia NI’s unique art exhibition at Ards Art Centre last week.

The Real Lives: The Art Of Living With Dementia exhibition is free to visit and runs until 24 February. It explores what it is like living with dementia in Northern Ireland while challenging widespread stigma about the condition.

Mayor Jennifer Gilmour with exhibitor and Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor.Image: Graham Baalham-Curry

The exhibition features pieces created by members of the Dementia NI charity, all of whom live with a diagnosis of dementia, and showcases captivating photography and striking patchwork quilts.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“There are over 20,000 people living with dementia across Northern Ireland, many of whom live in our Borough, and Age UK’s statistics suggest this could rise to 60,000 by 2050. Years of stigma and misunderstanding have led to common misconceptions about what it means to live with dementia but this exhibition sets out to challenge these misconceptions, transforming how people view the condition and starting conversations through the medium of art.”

The exhibition features patchwork quilts created during an online project organised by Dementia NI and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, to help local people with dementia stay active during lockdown. Working with Arts Council art tutors, Dementia NI members were encouraged to make their own heirloom quilts which tell the story of their lives.

Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor, is exhibiting her patchwork quilt which she created to represent what is important in her life. She said:

“When you receive a diagnosis of dementia you believe your life is over and that it’s impossible to learn new skills. However, this isn’t the case. During lockdown, Dementia NI developed this amazing art project which was run via Zoom. Through this we learnt many new skills and produced first class artwork. We are challenging the public’s perception of what dementia looks like and are constantly endeavouring to break down stigma and barriers. This art project was so enjoyable, and I am very glad to have been involved.”

Claire-Rose Canavan, Dementia NI Empowerment Facilitator, said:

“This exhibition is really special to our members, and we are so thrilled they permitted us share it with the public. It shares a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. We warmly invite everyone to come along and view it for themselves.”

The free-to-attend exhibition is open Tuesdays to Fridays (10am – 4pm) and Saturdays (10am – 1pm) until 24 February. For more information, visit andculture.org.uk.

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

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Antrim

ABBA starring Bjorn Identity at the Ballygally Castle Hotel. Back due to popular demand!  Join us for the most popular night out with all your favourite sing-a-long ABBA songs. Doors open from 7.30pm

Show begins at 9pm.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Opera and Orchards at the Market Place Theatre. Ulster Touring Opera’s exceptional soloists will take you on a musical journey from ancient Carthage to the factories of Seville via a rather bohemian Parisian apartment.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Meet at the Staircase for a special Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast!  Step back in time to a period of luxury, elegance and 5-star service with Titanic Belfast’s Afternoon Tea. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning Grand Staircase and live jazz music, it is an experience not to be missed!

Find out more HERE

Down

Treat that someone special to a romantic dinner or a day out with the girls at La Mon Hotel!

Find out what’s on offer HERE

Fermanagh

Cocktails & Coaching with Lisa McFarland, Charlie’s Bar. Whether you’re looking to re-ignite a spark, just out of a relationship or living your best single life, Lisa will be sharing her tips and tools to develop strong, healthy relationships. What better place to start than our relationship with ourselves!

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Evergladus for an amzing party night with a “love potion or Prosecco” drinks reception, 3 course dinner and live music.

This party is not just for couples but also for a great “Galentine’s” girls night out or with friends.

Find out more and book HERE

Tyrone

Come explore the wonderful world of Pancake Art at An Creagan!  Get creative with pancake batter in a raindow of colours.  Create your favourite characters and choose your favourite toppings.
Find out more and book HERE

James Huish & his band, an evening of Michael Buble Valentine’s Show!

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Join James Huish and his band for a romantic evening of swing and jazz this Valentine’s Day!

Songs from Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley etc, in the new iconic Avenue Arts Centre on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. A beautiful building full of character, formerly an old church now transformed in to a stunning theatre space.

Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and toe-tapping rhythms that defined an era. With his smooth and velvety voice, James and his 10 piece band will transport you back to the golden age of jazz, serenading you with soulful renditions of love songs that will make your heart flutter.

Whether you’re looking to impress your date or simply want to indulge in an enchanting musical experience, this concert is the perfect way to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening filled with passion, charm, and the irresistible magic of swing jazz. Book your tickets now and let James Huish and his band sweep you off your feet this Valentine’s Day!

Book your tickets now  at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/theavenueartscentre/t-jzmrnqo

Date:12th February 2024

Venue: The Avenue Arts Centre. Belfast.

Time: 8.00pm

Running time approx 2 hours

John Steinbeck takes centre stage at Roe Valley Arts Centre this February

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Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre is delighted to partner again with the Steinbeck Festival in 2024 to host a captivating program of events that celebrate the legacy of John Steinbeck through art, music, storytelling, and spoken word.

The festival promises a wonderful blend of cultural experiences for attendees of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in the literary world of Steinbeck.

The Steinbeck Festival 2024 kicks off with two engaging exhibitions: a display of book covers created by local primary school students and The Dustbowl Photography exhibition, which this year explores the theme ‘People’.

The timeless appeal of John Steinbeck’s works and his profound impact on the world of arts and culture will also be celebrated with a diverse range of live events, bringing together literature, film, music, and community engagement.

Mark Carruthers will engage in a thought-provoking conversation on Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume, with former BBC Journalist, and author of John Hume – The Persuader, Stephen Walker (2 Feb). Then, the Swingtime Starlets will transport the audience to the golden era of the 40s and 50s with an exceptional night of music on 24th February.  Tickets for both these events can be booked at roevalleyarts.com

There will also be a number of free events, including a live link up with the National Steinbeck Center, Salinas, California where attendees will have the opportunity to view some of the centre’s East of Eden related articles. Following this Dr Linda McKeown (QUB) will discuss East of Eden in its social context and consider Steinbeck’s thinking behind writing the novel.

On 8th February, come along for a captivating evening of verbal art by local poets and storytellers. Then, award-winning Northern Ireland film producer and screenwriter, Greer Ellison will give an illustration talk on 22nd February, offering insights into his illustrious career, sharing clips from his latest film, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of film and media.  Meanwhile, the Steinbeck Cafe in Drumceatt Square will host a lively Book Club discussion focused on Cannery Row on 27th February.

Secondary school GCSE groups are invited to a special programme of exploration and learning, delving into the literary masterpiece Of Mice and Men. Following the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a screening of the 1992 film adaptation and an introduction to the live music of the era by Allan Nicholl (21 and 22 Feb).

All bookings for events can be made online at roevalleyarts.com or by calling the box office on 028 7776 0650. Book is essential for free events.

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the festival as follows:

  • Monday: CLOSED
  • Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit www.roevalleyarts.com

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