Author: whatsonni

Have a very Happy Christmas!

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Down

Join the Slieve Donard Hotel for an evening of music in a “cabaret-style” setting with the Bjorn Identity on Sunday 29th December.  Doors open at 7.30 and the show begins at 9.00pm.  Make a night of it and book in for a pre-show dinner, or even better, treat yourself to an overnight stay!

Antrim

Island Arts Centre Lisburn presents Celtic Soul, the definitive tribute to Van Morrison on Sunday 29th December, for a special Christmas evening celebrating the music of the legendary Belfast song writer.  With years of playing in blues, folk, trad and jazz bands, the seven-piece band have the ingredients to deliver Van’s music authentically.

Armagh

Live Nativity at Tannaghmore Rare Breeds Animal Farm is open until the 29th December.  You will find Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the three Kings in a remake of that world  famous stable complete with donkey,  sheep, cows and other animals. 

Derry

Junior Parkrun Magherafelt takes place every Sunday morning at 9.30am at Polepatrick, Castledawson Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6PB.   This is a free, timed 2k event for juniors only age 4-14 years old. Get updates on the facebook page and don’t forget your barcode!

Fermanagh

Veteran Irish songwriter Kieran Goss and singer Annie Kinsella will perform live at the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday evening.  With songs, stories and harmonies that transport the listener to another world, this is music from the heart, for the heart… A show to make you laugh and cry… A show to move you with its honest beauty.

Tyrone

Banyan Theatre Company presents the Emperor’s New Clothes at Ranfurly House this Saturday at 2.00pm.   Two Swindlers come into town pretending to be master tailors. The vain Emperor summons them to fashion him a set of clothes the like of which had never been seen before.  This charming and humorous adaptation is told through the use of puppetry, original music and storytelling. Tickets only £5.

Belfast

Panto season is still in full swing and continues with Belvoir Players’ production of Aladdin. The wicked Abanazar is seeking the magic lamp that contains the all-powerful Genie, so that he can rule the world, and is just steps away from succeeding! Is all hope lost?   The show continues until the 4th January at Belvoir Players Studio.

Spring into the New Year with Ards and North Down’s new Arts and Heritage Guide!

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Ards and North Down Borough Council has just launched its latest Arts and Heritage Guide.

The colourful Spring edition, covering the January to April period is filled with an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the new Arts and Heritage Programme. From events to creative classes, exhibitions, arts experiences for children and everything that’s happening at North Down Museum, make sure you pick up your copy today!

With the New Year comes plenty of opportunity for hands-on art and craft activity with the creative class and one-day workshop series at Ards Arts Centre including traditional stone carving techniques and two special Easter Floral Art classes. The Outreach Workshop Programme will ‘bring the arts to you’ with a series of creative classes in Comber, Holywood, Kircubbin, Donaghadee and Carrowdore.

Music lovers will be pleased with the return of the popular Friday Night Live and Music in the Chamber series of events with Chris Keys, Wilfie Gilbert and Cup O’Joe performing at Ards Arts Centre while King Cedar, The Dime Notes and Cormac Neeson will grace the stage at Bangor Castle.

The fantastic Dyad Productions return to bring Queen Elizabeth I to life at The Space Theatre or visit The Worst Café in the World for an immersive theatre experience brought to you by Big Telly Theatre Company – one thing you won’t get is good food!

Spring is shaping up to be a busy time at North Down Museum too.  On Friday 14 February, the museum will be invaded by wee ones for the Toddlers Take Over the Museum event. This popular event is a chance for your toddler to experience arts, crafts, story-telling and dancing through the theme ‘Vikings’. The museum is also hosting a wealth of fascinating exhibitions over the coming months, exploring the Borough’s Maritime Heritage, the skill and tradition of crochet, VE Day and lots more.

Speaking about the new programme; Emily Crawford Arts and Heritage Manager with Ards and North Down Borough Council said: ‘If your New Year’s resolution is to get creative, engage more in culture or simply to explore your local heritage then we have an activity for you! The Arts and Heritage Team look forward to welcoming you in the New Year with an exciting programme of events and activities to suit all tastes and abilities.’

Stuck for a last-minute Christmas gift? Online ticket pre-sales for all music and theatre events are available from Thursday 19 December. Enrolment for all creative classes and workshops takes place on Wednesday 8 January either in person at Ards Arts Centre or by phoning: 028 9181 0803.

Pick up your copy of the Arts and Heritage Spring Guide from Arts Ards Centre, North Down Museum or our Visitor Information Centres or download from www.ardsarts.com or www.visitardsandnorthdown.com . Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts a wonderful 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.

·         Shop & Be Pampered, one night stay White Horse Hotel, Derry~Londonderry from £102.50 per person sharing

Enjoy a fabulous break and shopping spree with this fantastic offer at the White Horse Hotel. This best-selling “Shop & Be Pampered” package includes a one night stay with breakfast, a bottle of bubbly in your room on arrival, four course evening meal in the award winning 68 Clooney Restaurant on the evening of your choice, one £25 Foyleside Shopping Centre voucher per room and one back, neck and shoulder massage per person. To book call 028 7186 0606. Offer available until 31 March 2020.

·         Glide on by, one night stay at Stormont Hotel, Belfast from £50 per person sharing

It’s never been easier to combine a trip to the city of Belfast whilst staying in the leafy suburb at the Stormont Hotel. The Translink Glider Bus stops just outside the hotel every ten minutes and will take you along the dedicated bus lanes swiftly into the City Centre. Our special offer includes luxurious overnight accommodation, full Irish breakfast in the morning, return Glider bus ticket to Belfast City Centre, complimentary Wi-Fi and complimentary car parking. To book call 028 9065 1066. Offer available until 8 February 2020.

·         Mourne Forest Parc Holidays, Spelga Mountain Lodge, Newry from £250 per person

Enjoy the forest parks of Mourne with your family and try an activity at Life Adventure Centre (pre book for your activity separately). Stay for two nights in the high Mournes ten minutes from Newcastle County Down, relaxing by the wooden stove in the modern two bedroom self-catering lodge (sleeps five), beside Spelga Dam Wall. There are three forest parks surrounding the mountain lodge. Santa visit also bookable online in December (subject to availability). To book call 077 2043 2781. Offer available until 31 March 2020.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things taking place from 16 – 22 December.

1.       Winter-Solstice Armagh, 20 December. Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit procession to Navan Fort. Take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation, reflecting upon the past and welcoming new light. Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sunrise over the site of Emain Macha, before returning to the Centre for breakfast.

2.       Colin-Davidson-and-Oliver-Jeffers-In-Conversation Belfast, 16 December. Colin Davidson is a contemporary artist, living and working near Belfast. Since graduating in 1991, he has structured his practice in themes, and since 2010 his focus has been on painting grand scale portraits which have won widespread recognition and many international awards. His sitters have included Queen Elizabeth II, Bill Clinton, Liam Neeson, Brad Pitt and Ed Sheeran.

3.       Bushmills-Pre-Christmas-Food-Tour Bushmills, 20 – 21 December. Join Irish Feast on a journey of local, gastronomic discovery. During the tour of Bushmills, you’ll discover old recipes and new trends. You’ll talk to people in traditional family-owned restaurants and in up and coming artisan cafes and eateries. You’ll taste history and culture and truly experience the creative future of our food industry on a scintillating, surprising, seriously tasty Irish Feast Food Tour.

4.       Festive-Friday-at-Rademon-Estate Downpatrick, 6 – 23rd December. Learn all about their foraged botanicals, unique gin and whiskey processes. Stand next to their three beautiful copper pot stills and meet the founders Fiona and David. Just remember to take time to enjoy the views in their beautiful location with a pre/post tour cocktail at the bar!

5.       Ulster-Orchestra-The-Magic-of-Christmas Derry~Londonderry, 18 December. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas at this magical night with the Ulster Orchestra. Conductor Richard Balcombe, Codetta Choir and West End stars Sophie-Louise Dann (Les Misérables) Alex Gaumond (Legally Blonde, We Will Rock You) will definitely get you and your family in the Christmas mood, with an enchanting programme including O Holy Night, The Polar Express and not forgetting everyone’s favourite, White Christmas.

6.       Wild-Game-Butchery-Class Ballycastle, 15 December – 19 January 2020. This is the perfect class for anyone who is curious about using seasonal, small game or for those who enjoy shooting but would like to also know how to butcher their quarry. The class will give you all the skills you’ll need to be confident in prepping your own wild game for the kitchen. During the class they will also talk about the best ways to cook the different cuts and varieties. You’ll get to take away a selection of local game at the end of the class.

7.       Carols-by-Candlelight Holywood, 13 – 20 December. Experience the atmosphere of the festive season in the 1900s at Christmas at Cultra event and make it extra special by joining the candlelit carol service in the atmospheric surrounds of the Omagh Meeting House, Ballycultra.Take in the Christmas atmosphere in the idyllic setting of the Omagh Meeting House period building in the Folk Museum, for an evening of singing carols and seasonal readings.

8.       Aladdin Belfast, 20 – 22 December. Meet Aladdin, the rough and rugged hero struggling to find his purpose in life. Come along and have your wishes granted with a night of entertainment and a story that you’ve never heard told quite like this. With popular references to motion pictures and a soundtrack that is sure to leave you with your jaw on the floor, Aladdin is perfect entertainment for all the family this Christmas.

9.       Christmas-Family-Activities-at-Hillsborough-Castle Hillsborough, 14 December – 2 January. Get crafty with the art facilitator and make yourself something wonderful to take home. Enjoy some festive and traditional tales of the season with renowned storyteller Liz Weir. See ladies dancing and lords a’ leaping this Christmas and prepare for your own Twelfth Night ball by practising some Georgian steps with the expert dance tutor. Join the ’12 Drummers Drumming’ this Christmas and participate in this fun family workshop run by drum circle facilitator Joe Loughlin.

10.   Christmas-at-the-Cathedral Belfast, 20 – 21 December. World-class singers Peter Corry, Barbara Dickson and Patrick Smyth will be joined by the BSPA Voices for an enchanting show of seasonal celebration in the most stunning of settings. Peter Corry is finalising the full line-up of songs, but with Blood Brothers, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Elton John and the Greatest Showman in their combined repertoires, plus some seasonal favourites, Christmas at the Cathedral has the perfect experience and perfect present wrapped up.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Jacqueline shares her pick of whats on this weekend across NI

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Down

Spend a winter evening in the company of Ebeneezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchett and a few of the ghosts of Christmas’ past, present and future this Saturday 21st December at Castle Ward. Hear the classic Dickens story of Ebeneezer Scrooge as you never have never heard it before.

Antrim

Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey present a live screening of Coppelia, live from the Royal Ballet, this Saturday evening.   Osbert Lancaster’s designs bring a colourful storybook world to life in this Christmas treat for the whole family.

Armagh

Beauty and the Beast continues at the Market Place Theatre until Sunday 22nd December. The greatest love story ever told, but told in a way you’ll never have seen the like of before! Audiences can expect an action-packed show bursting with magic, music and plenty of mayhem!

Derry

See It’s a Wonderful Life this Saturday afternoon at Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady. George Bailey is a small-town man who had always wanted to leave Bedford Falls to see the world, but circumstances have led him to stay.   As he prepares to take drastic action, his guardian angel intercedes; showing him what life would have become for the residents of Bedford Falls if he had never lived.

Fermanagh

This Saturday evening at the Ardhowen Theatre in “Mini Strokes of Luck”, Terry McHugh will be taking a very funny and honest look at his experience of suffering 2 mini strokes and the effects they had on him.  Terry will be joined by the hilarious Frazer Robb who has been performing on the Northern Irish Comedy scene for nearly 10 years as a Stand Up and as part of improv group Wonderfrog.

Tyrone

Join vocal ensemble Cantabelles for a festive evening of Christmas carols and popular songs this Friday evening at Ranfurly House Dungannon.  Relax  and listen to favourites of O Holy Night and Carol of the Bells.  Cantabelles are an established local ensemble combining rich harmonies and vocals to old classics and modern songs.

Belfast

Meet Aladdin at the Crescent Arts Centre 20th to 22nd December.  He is the rough and rugged hero struggling to find his purpose in life. Along the way he falls in love with the beautiful princess Jasmine who has been forced to marry the man her father, the Sultan, picked for her.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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1.       Winter-Circus Belfast, 13 December – 1 January. Winter Circus is back again for its fourth year with The Winter Circus Show. The ever-popular show will be hosted in the fantastic, central location of Writer’s Square, Belfast. The Winter Circus Show will be an all human, all skill and all thrill event. Expect modern, high skilled acts, including acrobats, aerialists and jugglers in this one hour of hammer smashing Belfast inspired circus.

2.       Visit-Santa-at-the-Ulster-American-Folk-Park Omagh, 6December – 5 January. Visit Santa at the Ulster American Folk Park and take the family back in time to experience the magic of a traditional Christmas this festive season. Gather around the warmth of a turf fire and enjoy readings from The Night Before Christmas, singalong with the Christmas Mummers, taste seasonal treats and meet Santa and Mrs Claus in their workshop.

3.       The-Old-Inns-Glitter-Ball-Boogie Bangor, 13 December. Old world charm, meets the glitz and glam that only a party night in the dazzling Verina Suite can offer. Enjoy your red carpet entrance and your very own Onyx Champagne Bar at The Old Inn this season. Your glitz and glam party evening begins with a three course menu, then dance the night away with party favourites hosted by DJ Derek West until midnight.

4.       The-Snowman-and-other-Christmas-Favourites Derry~Londonderry, 15 December. Join Derry’s new symphony orchestra as they celebrate Christmas with their friends from the Allegri ladies and Allegri kids choirs and present The Snowman. Allegri’s singers will join forces with a live orchestra for the first time to celebrate the spirit of Christmas through song. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this family favourite, as well as a wonderful selection of other festive music.

5.       Traditional-Irish-Bread-making-with-a-Christmas-twist Newtownards, 12 December. Join Tracey in her home, where you’ll be welcomed with the aroma of freshly made griddle breads, soda and wheaten, and a table laden with homemade treats. Learn how to make local Irish breads in a traditional thatched cottage on the shores of Strangford lough. If you’re looking for something off the beaten track and you’re keen to meet the locals and dine in a traditional home, then this is the perfect experience for you.

6.       Christmas-Cracker-at-Rowallane-Garden Ballynahinch, 7 – 24 December. Visit Rowallane Garden for their Yuletide Market from 7 – 8 December where you will find locally produced gifts from one of the specialist stall holders in the Stableyard. Discover a range of artisan foods and hand-crafted curiosities. You’re sure to find something to share with your loved ones this Christmas. From 14-24 December you will also be able to decorate your very own Gingerbread man.

7.       12-Days-of-Christmas-with-David-Lyttle Hillsborough, 14 December. David Lyttle continues to mentor and introduce new talent with his dynamic Christmas concert at Hillsborough Castle which will feature three of Ireland’s most promising young jazz musicians: Derry guitarist Joseph Leighton and twin brothers Michael and Conor Murray, saxophone and double bass, from Donegal. His celebrated collaborations with a long list of music legends brings jazz to new audiences in unusual venues.

8.       Wildlife-Wonderland-at-Belfast-Zoo Newtownabbey 14 – 15 December. Wrap presents for the animals and see Santa deliver these around the 55-acre site. You can also take part in Christmas crafts, win prizes with a reindeer trail, meet a selection of animals, and pose for photos with Santa and Mrs Claus. Wildlife Wonderland is suitable for both families and adults and does not include a Grotto experience. Normal admission price applies.

9.       Lost-Childhood-Exhibition Derry~Londonderry, 1 December – 31 January. Beginning this December, the award-winning Museum of Free Derry will host one of their most poignant exhibitions to date entitled ‘Lost Childhood’.

10.   Adam-Kay-Twas-the-Nightshift-Before-Christmas Belfast, 11 December. Join Adam Kay for his brand new festive show ‘Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas’ at the Ulster Hall for two incredible shows this December. Following the million-selling success of This Is Going To Hurt, Adam Kay delves back into his diaries for a hilarious peek behind the blue curtain at Christmas time. This brand new live show mixes highlights from the book with his award winning stand-up comedy and exclusive new content.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR COUPLES TO ENJOY TOGETHER

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LASTING memories are the ultimate present and Hastings Hotels is encouraging people to gift their partner an experience to remember…together.

The leading collection of hotels has a fabulous array of gift experiences for couples to enjoy and has put together ideas to help provide some festive inspiration:

  • Treat that special someone to a romantic overnight stay in one of the fabulous 7 Hastings Hotels from as little as £75pps. Enjoy a pampering spa break at the Slieve Donard Resort & spa or Culloden Estate & Spa; a city break in Belfast to take in a night at the theatre or the bustling nightlife and stay at Europa Hotel, Grand Central Hotel or Stormont Hotel; spend the afternoon exploring the Walled City and stay at the Everglades Hotel in Derry-Londonderry; or get cosy and enjoy a break along the scenic Antrim coast at Ballygally Castle.
  • After Christmas, there is no better way to relax and enjoy some quality time together than an afternoon being pampered. The Spa at Slieve Donard and The Spa at Culloden are an oasis of tranquillity with relaxing facilities including heat experiences, swimming pool and an extensive selection of ESPA treatment starting from £85pp including an Enzyme Facial, an ESPA Eye Lift, an Ocean and Earth Body Wrap, Men’s Deep Cleanse Facial and Golfer’s Tonic massage.
  • Enjoy a date night with indulgent dining from only £25pp. The hotels provide the perfect location to enjoy a romantic meal for two and each menu is carefully designed using the very best of local, seasonal produce.
  • Treating your loved one to Afternoon Tea is a decadent way to have special time together. Starting from just £20pp, enjoy cups of the finest steaming tea or coffee, finger sandwiches and an array of delectable treats!  For the most exquisite Afternoon Tea experience, visit the Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel where you can enjoy the best views of Belfast and beyond. 
  • And if that special person in your life likes to choose their own present – a Hastings Hotels Gift Card is ideal! It can be used in the 7 hotels, the two magnificent spas and any of the group’s restaurants or bars. Every budget is catered for, with cards available from £20 to much, much more!

For further information go towww.hastingshotels.com/Christmasgifts or call 028 9047 1066.

Offers of the Week

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OFFERS OF THE WEEK

Northern Ireland boasts a wonderful 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.

·         Winter on the Coast, two night stay at the Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy from £99 per room

Stay in the idyllic village of Ballintoy and in the heart of the Causeway Coastal route for two nights, bed and breakfast for two people. The Fullerton Arms is a perfect base to explore the Giants Causeway, Bushmills distillery, Carrick a rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones® locations. The cosy bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and hosts live music at the weekends. Offer is available Sunday to Friday and subject to availability. There is an additional cost when booking a Saturday. To book call 028 2076 9613. Offer available until 31st March 2020.

·         Winter warmer, two night stay at Shelleven Guest House, Bangor from £131.25 per room

Enjoy two nights at Shellevan Guest House, a Victorian townhouse with great charm, providing luxurious accommodation in a warm relaxed atmosphere. This unique guest house is the perfect place to relax with several rooms offering stunning views of Bangor Bay, the Irish Sea and beyond. Book a 2 night stay at the Shellevan Guest House in November or December (excluding Christmas dates) and receive 25% off your second night’s stay, when 2 people share. Offer includes full hot and cold breakfast, cooked to order. To book call 02891271777. Offer available until 20 December 2019.

·         Faldo Getaway Experience at Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen from £97.50 per person sharing

Enjoy an overnight stay at the multi-award winning Lough Erne Resort which offers spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and the Faldo Course. Stay in a luxury guest room and enjoy a round of golf on the championship Faldo Course. Awake to an indulgent breakfast and use of the infinity pool. Offer is subject to availability and excludes holiday and peak periods. To book call 028 6632 3230. Offer available until 23 December 2019.

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

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Down

This Saturday 14th December Dromore is hosting a “Christmas Barket”.  A special Christmas themed market with gifts and treats for all your furry friends and family.  Shop for all-natural dog treats, unique pet gifts and dog beds and accessories. 

Antrim

Naturally North Coast and Glens will celebrate Christmas in Ballycastle with a sensational Christmas Market in the Marine Hotel, Ballycastle on Sunday 15th December.  The market will be festooned with artisan treats galore, quirky gift  ideas, sumptuous hand crafted treats,  and  much more!  

Armagh

The Santa Special is a return journey of festive fun by steam train, with an on-board visit from Santa and presents for children from Portadown to Lisburn. The round trip lasts around 2 hours. Get a photograph with the man in red beside the train. Sunday 15th December 12.00pm to 4.00pm.

Derry

This Saturday evening, friends once again gather at the hearth at HomePlace Bellaghy for an evening of music, poetry and banter. Expect some songs, readings and recitations and some memories of Christmas – including songs from Anthony Toner, piano from Rod McVey, cello and uilleann pipe music from Neil Martin and readings from acclaimed author Glenn Patterson.

Fermanagh

Visit Santa in his Grotto on Sunday 15th December at Share Discovery Village.  This Christmas Cheer event is running for the public from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on Sunday 15th December.  £8 per child and £2 per accompanying adult including an individual visit to Santa Claus, making Christmas crafts and play games, write your Santa letter, feast on hot chocolate and cookies,  balloon modelling and face painting.

Tyrone

Santa is making his journey from the North Pole to Peatlands Park Dungannon on 14th and 15th December from 12.00 – 3.00pm.   Hop aboard the Santa Express train through the woods to Santa’s secret grotto. Meet Father Christmas who will deliver a present to all children. Take a selfie with Santa. Hop back on the express train tto the Peatlands Visitor Centre to write a letter to Santa which will be placed in the North Pole Letterbox.  

Belfast

Join Belvoir Players for their annual Christmas Charity Concert in aid of NI Chest Heart and Stroke  on Saturday 14th December.  Enjoy music from the season performed by students & professionals alongside dramatic readings taken from C.S. Lewis’ Narnia.  Tickets include mulled wine and mince pies at the interval.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Christmas Country Cracker Show at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre

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Five top performers from the world of Country music are coming together for a Christmas Country Cracker Show at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre on Friday 20th December.

Featuring the hilarious Gary Gamble with his surreal impressions of Daniel O’Donnell, rising star Owen Mac, truckers’ favourite Boxcar Brian and local singer Joe Moore, the night will include hit song performances with a festive feel in the company of the superb Country Harmony.

If you are a Country music fan then this is the show for you! And there may be a few Christmas special guests making an appearance as well.

The show opens at 8pm and will finish at 10.30pm Tickets cost £20 and are available now from www.roevalleyarts.com or call 028 7776 0650.

This is a guest hire event brought to you by JMG Music Group.

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