Author: Tina Calder

Final Chance to See Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre

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Courtesy of Collette Creative

Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s production of David Ireland’s acclaimed black comedy Ulster American is entering its final week at The Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast, with the last performance taking place on Saturday, September 6.

The show, directed by Bright Umbrella founder and artistic director Trevor Gill, opened on August 26 and has since played to engaged audiences in the intimate 120-seat theatre.

Starring James Boal as Leigh Carver, Caroline Curran as Ruth Davenport and Andrew McClay as Jay Conway, the three-person cast has brought Ireland’s volatile and darkly comic script to life just streets away from where the playwright first drafted parts of the work.

The play unfolds in real time over 75 minutes, charting a late-night meeting between an American film star, an English director and a Northern Irish playwright. What begins as a professional discussion quickly unravels into confrontation, exposing tensions around identity, power and artistic integrity.

Speaking about the production, Trevor Gill said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from. We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.”

The production has also drawn positive responses from critics. Belfast Times reviewer Jeff Meredith described it as “a sharp and unsettling experience that lingers long after the curtain call”. 

Robin Elliott and Jane Hardy from In The Stalls podcast called it “strangely compelling”, adding that “it leaves you questioning in a new way” and described the ending as “an incredible, bloody denouement” that left them “slightly traumatised”. They also praised Caroline Curran for delivering “a truly great performance as Ruth” that showed “what a fine actress she is”.

Ulster American has gained a reputation internationally for its brutal humour and uncompromising treatment of themes such as misogyny, consent and cultural identity. It contains very strong language, graphic violence and references to sexual assault.

The production is part-funded by Belfast City Council and supports the company’s wider programme of performance, education and community engagement.

Evening performances take place at 7pm, with a 2pm matinee on the final day.

Tickets for Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre are on sale now at www.brightumbrella.co.uk

Queen’s Graduate Revives Belfast Publishing Service After Cathedral Quarter Blaze

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Almost three years after the business was devastated in a fire at Cathedral Buildings Belfast media and marketing company Excalibur Press has revealed they’ve brought back their publishing department thanks to a Queen’s graduate.

Following the blaze in their Donegall Street premises, caused by arsonist Patrick Gough who was jailed for the devastation, the company were forced to retire their small publishing department that had brought to life the work of 23 authors across Northern Ireland since its inception in 2015.

Thousands of pounds worth of stock was lost in the fire and the company struggled to revive the ailing department.

Chief vision officer and founder of Excalibur Press, Tina Calder, explained: “The fire at Cathedral Buildings in Donegall Street completely decimated our business and over the last three years my staff and I have had to make some really tough decisions such as retiring our publishing department in order to save the main business. 

“When Queen’s graduate Niamh Cooper asked if she could do a funded internship with us last year we jumped at the chance to start supporting young people again at the business.

“It became clear very quickly that Niamh had a natural aptitude for editing and publishing and so we agreed to publish Patience Bradley’s book Princess Mary’s Long Journey Home, a children’s book Patience had hand written in a notebook.

“Niamh’s dedication to supporting Patience, who is dyslexic, and helping her bring the book to life showed me that there might be life in the publishing department yet, albeit a slightly different offering from before.

“Alongside Niamh we started accepting the enquiries and created a new series of packages that are more than just publishing someone’s book for them. Instead, now we support authors through the entire journey with everything from ghost writing, line editing, copy editing and setting up their Amazon accounts, to helping them create a PR plan to support the launch of their book.

“I’m delighted Niamh has brought this department back to life and look forward to seeing how she develops it over time.”

Since Niamh’s arrival at Excalibur Press she has gone on to secure ongoing publishing work for the business alongside client relationship manager Carole King.

Niamh said: “As a recent 2025 graduate, it has been such a privilege to be able to work alongside wonderful authors in order to bring their books to life. 

“I’m very excited to continue building my skills and experience, whilst working alongside a wonderful team to grow the publishing department.”

In the last few months Niamh has overseen the publishing of 3 books: Holywood author Patience Bradley (Princess Mary’s Journey to Find True Love), County Devon writer Mike Menhennitt (Mount Radford School) and Ballymena journalist Jonathan Traynor (Race The Undead). 

Niamh is currently working with a portfolio of authors where she is supporting them with editing and publishing their own material and has opened the Excalibur Press diary for enquiries from new authors.

Author Patience Bradley said: “I’m delighted to be working with Excalibur Press again after they supported me with the release of my books Where Do You Go To My Lovely in 2017 and The Housework Workout in 2018.

“Working with Niamh on Princess Mary’s Long Journey Home was an absolute pleasure. She had her work cut out for her deciphering my notebook but she did an excellent job.

“Not just that, when we hit a bump in the road when I was struggling to figure out how to illustrate the book in the way in which I wanted Niamh supported me to use AI to help me create exactly what I wanted in a way that worked for me and the book. 

“Excalibur Press also looked after my book launch, PR and setting up my Amazon account so that I have full oversight of all my own sales.

“I’m already thinking about my next book and can’t wait to work with Niamh and the team again.” 

At the end of September Niamh will also be managing the release of Excalibur Press founder Tina Calder’s book I’ve Just Put My Socks On Standing Up, a frank and honest account of her 10 stone weight loss journey using the widely talked about medication Mounjaro.

Tina said: “I love writing and I love telling my story but I knew I didn’t have the time to do everything myself when it came to writing about my own personal experiences. Once Niamh had revived our publishing department it became apparent I could start working on my series of mini books covering aspects of my life that I speak about publicly and at events.

“We’re starting with my weight loss journey at the end of September but I’ll also be looking at topics such as my late diagnosis of ADHD, my struggle with the chronic condition Fibromyalgia, imposter syndrome and resilience and a few others.

“One thing I’ve been excited to see is how Niamh has weaved the wider Excalibur Press ethos of transparency into her department. There’s no get rich quick schemes or false promises of fame and fortune, it’s simple, honest advice that gives authors the ability to make informed choices about their publishing journey.”

To find out more about Excalibur Press’ publishing services contact niamh@excaliburpress.co.uk or go to excaliburpress.co.uk/publishing-packages

Belfast Orangefest Launches New Public Engagement Campaign To Help Shape Its Future

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Orangefest, the cultural brand established by the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, has launched a new public engagement campaign aimed at shaping the future of its year-round programme of events, outreach, and celebrations.

With the help of Belfast-based media and marketing agency Excalibur Press, the initiative will see the development of a refreshed brand, messaging framework, and marketing strategy for Belfast Orangefest. A goal of which is to broaden participation, build deeper community connections, and ensure the festival reflects the evolving cultural landscape of Northern Ireland while remaining true to its heritage.

The project will involve a wide-ranging listening exercise with the public and key stakeholders. This includes opportunities for individuals and organisations to take part in interviews, surveys, workshops, and digital feedback sessions, ensuring the strategy is shaped by those it represents and impacts.

William Hughes, Director of Development at Belfast Orangefest said: “We want to hear from people across the community – whether they’ve been involved in Belfast Orangefest for years or are engaging with it for the first time. 

“This campaign is about listening, reflecting, and building something together that feels open, inclusive and proud of our cultural identity. 

“Our aim is to create a festival that celebrates heritage in a way that connects with all generations and backgrounds.”

Orangefest is the brand responsible for promoting Orange cultural events throughout the year including a series of fringe events in Belfast during the 12th of July celebrations, but in recent years it has evolved to include a growing programme of family-friendly events, educational activities, and cultural outreach throughout the year. 

The new campaign will support that evolution by refining how Belfast Orangefest presents itself publicly and helping shape its future direction.

Tina Calder, strategist and chief vision officer of Excalibur Press said: “This project is about more than just the development of Orangefest – it’s about people, stories and cultural connection. 

“Our goal is to work collaboratively with communities to develop messaging and engagement strategies that are authentic, respectful, and meaningful. 

“We want to ensure Orangefest reflects the values of the people involved in it and resonates with wider society, both now and in the future.”

As part of the campaign, Excalibur Press will deliver a comprehensive strategy covering stakeholder engagement, marketing and PR, content development, media analysis, and brand storytelling. A key focus will be exploring how the history and values behind Orangefest can be communicated in ways that inspire curiosity, bridge divides, and build understanding.

William Mawhinney, Director of Development of Belfast Orangefest added: “We believe Orangefest has the potential to be a powerful platform for community celebration, education, and unity. But that only works if we listen – really listen – to the people it represents. 

“This strategy is an open invitation for the public to help us shape a festival that speaks to today’s Northern Ireland.”

Members of the public are now being invited to register their interest in participating. 

Whether you’re a supporter, a curious observer, or a community member with ideas to share – this is your chance to shape something meaningful.

All you have to do to get involved is fill out an expression of interest at >> https://forms.gle/d21E3PsFB3u2f9UE7 

Women In Leadership To Gather For Cross Border She Leads Event

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Six Chambers of Commerce unite to host a cross border celebration of women in leadership

Women from across Northern Ireland and Ireland are being encouraged to save the date for a major new cross-border event, She Leads Women Shaping Economies, taking place on Friday, September 5 at The Fairways Hotel, Dundalk.

Organised by six Chambers of Commerce situated between Belfast and Dublin, each currently led by a female Chamber President, the afternoon tea event will showcase women in leadership, highlight their contribution to local and national economies and provide a platform for important conversations about leadership, resilience and growth.

The initiative represents a unique collaboration between Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade, Dundalk Chamber, Drogheda and District Chamber, Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, County Meath Chamber and WBR Chamber of Commerce. All six Chambers are headed by women who have come together with a shared vision of creating opportunities for dialogue, connection and support.

The She Leads event has been designed as a space for women to connect across sectors, geographies and industries. It will feature panel discussions with a range of business leaders and decision-makers, together with networking opportunities over a formal afternoon tea.

Ruth Young, president of the Lisburn Chamber of Commerce said she was delighted to be taking part in the event and was looking forward to connecting with the other five chambers.

She added: “We’re delighted to be part of this groundbreaking cross-border initiative celebrating female leadership across our shared island. 

“She Leads represents exactly the kind of collaboration and networking opportunity that can drive real change – connecting women across sectors and borders while supporting our local communities. 

“I encourage women from all industries to join us in Dundalk for what promises to be an inspiring afternoon of meaningful conversation and connection.”

The event will begin with a prosecco reception at 1.30pm, providing an informal opportunity for participants to meet others from across the region and beyond. Guests will then take part in panel discussions featuring speakers drawn from politics, business and media. The discussions will provide insights into the realities of female leadership in today’s economic and social environment and will reflect a broad range of professional experiences.

The afternoon will conclude with a full networking tea, allowing participants to continue conversations, build relationships and form new connections that may extend far beyond the event itself.

She Leads has been created as a collaborative initiative between six Chambers of Commerce spanning both Northern Ireland and Ireland. The Chambers involved are Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade (led by President Edwina Flynn), Dundalk Chamber (led by President Hanna McDonnell), Drogheda and District Chamber (led by President Naomi Tully), Lisburn Chamber of Commerce (led by President Ruth Young), County Meath Chamber (led by President Niamh Giffney) and WBR Chamber of Commerce (led by President Colleen Dowdall Tinnelly).

This cross-border approach aims to reflect the interconnected nature of the region’s economies while also celebrating the role of women in shaping future growth.

The event will be compered by Northern Ireland broadcaster Denise Watson, a well-known journalist and presenter with more than 30 years’ experience in television and radio.

Rather than delivering lengthy keynote speeches, each panellist will take part in conversations designed to highlight key themes such as resilience, breaking barriers in male dominated industries, leadership in public life and building creative enterprises. The full line-up of panellists will be announced in the coming weeks.

She Leads has been designed not only as a networking and professional development opportunity but also as a way to support women in the wider community. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local women’s charities, ensuring that the initiative has an immediate and tangible impact.

She Leads is supported by Local Enterprise Office Louth, PTSB, Oriel Office, Deli Lites, Southern Regional College (SRC), Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Excalibur Press.

Tickets for the event are available now via TicketTailor at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dundalkchamberofcommerce1/1804447

Spaces are limited and early booking is advised to secure a place at this new event in the business and leadership calendar.

David Ireland’s Ulster American Opens at The Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast

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Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s production of David Ireland’s no-holds-barred black comedy Ulster American opens in East Belfast this week.

Taking place at The Sanctuary Theatre (Tues Aug 26 – Sat Sept 6) with evening performances at 7pm and a 2pm matinee on the closing day, this run is directed by Bright Umbrella’s founder and artistic director Trevor Gill.

The three-person cast features Northern Irish actor James Boal as Leigh Carver, Caroline Curran as Ruth Davenport and Andrew McClay as Jay Conway.

Speaking about the production, Trevor said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from.

“We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.

“Any director who tries too hard to make a particular point runs the danger of turning a script into a parody, a cartoon of itself. David’s script does the work for us in outlining its themes. Often, it’s a straight delivery that will achieve the greatest impact. Do your job, tell the story – the audience will do the rest.

“Watching a production of Ulster American is a visceral experience. Audiences gasp in disbelief, laugh out loud and are shocked at events. However, the subtlety of the piece has stood out during rehearsal. David’s precise word choice has us questioning our perspectives. The Sanctuary is a small venue with around 120 seats meaning that no one is very far from the stage, this brings a sense of audience intimacy and involvement.”

David Ireland said: “I wrote most of the play while living at 66 Castlereagh Street, a two-minute walk from The Sanctuary.

“Whenever I hear of a production of Ulster American happening, wherever it is in the world, my mind goes back to East Belfast, and to Castlereagh Street. I’m glad it’s come home.”

Caroline Curran takes to the stage as Ruth Davenport, a writer from Belfast who is overjoyed that her play is being performed with a well-established actor. 

“She’s intelligent, funny, but with a fiery side,” said Caroline.

“I first read Ulster American in extracts that Bright Umbrella did for Bringing It All Back Home to celebrate writers from East Belfast. I was lucky enough to be reading the Ulster American extract with the part I am now cast in, so I am over the moon to be back.

“I have performed here before and I absolutely adore this space and the staff. I’m looking forward to audiences who have never been to the Sanctuary Theatre coming and seeing this very special place and enjoying a really funny, dark piece of theatre.”

Andrew McClay, best known for his appearances in Game of Thrones and HBO’s The Last Watch, said: “I play Jay Conway, Oscar-winning actor, who is intense and has been known to speak from his crotch.

“Having never acted in the Sanctuary, I am most looking forward to the intimacy of the venue. The building has history and character, I love places like that. Plus, it’s just down the road from the house.

“If you love the craic, you’ll love this. And sure here, who doesn’t love the craic.”

James Boal (Leigh Carver) added: “I’m a huge fan of David’s writing. His intense storytelling and razor-sharp dialogue. The hype around the play when it premiered in Edinburgh (where I live) was unreal, and when I read it I knew why.

“I played Slim in Cyprus Avenue alongside David Hayman as Eric. Seeing David’s play go to work on Scottish audiences was incredible, belly laughs to heartbreak in an instant. I have a feeling Ulster American is going to take Belfast audiences on that same intensely entertaining, unsettling and challenging wild ride.”

Ulster American unfolds over the course of a single evening, when an American film star, an English director and a Northern Irish playwright gather to discuss a new play. What begins as a collaboration quickly unravels into a volatile clash of egos, politics and identities, raising difficult questions about power, privilege and consent.

The play contains very strong language, graphic violence and references to sexual assault.

Tickets are £20 and available now at brightumbrella.co.uk

The Retro Room Vintage Video Arcade Powers On Permanently at Cityside Retail & Leisure Park this September

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Belfast is about to get a brand new addition to its social and family entertainment scene. After several years of involvement in pop up arcades around the city, The Retro Room has secured a new and permanent home at Cityside Retail & Leisure Park. 

The Retro Room is a vintage video arcade brimming over with original 70s, 80s and 90s arcade games as well as classic consoles and tabletop titles, designed as a welcoming space for all ages. 

From gamers nostalgic about the games of their youth to families looking for something different to do together, to friends on a night out or couples on a first date, the new venue promises to combine fun, nostalgia and community in one place. And the arcade will be also be available to hire privately  for companies, birthday parties or any occasion. 

Founder Martin Neill said:

“Some of our happiest memories are of the arcades we spent our childhoods in in the 1980s. We’re bringing that environment, and the games that made the old arcades so great, back for a new generation to enjoy. We want the Retro Room to be a great place to hang about with a few of your mates like it was for us, when playing games was a social experience rather than a solitary one.”

“We’ve spent a few years hunting down a great selection of retro arcade titles in particular, we’re sure most people of a certain vintage will find something they loved back in the day on our arcade floor. But still there’s nothing like watching kids discovering the likes of Street Fighter 2, Pac-Man or Wonderboy for the first time. These games are timeless.” 

The new venue will sit alongside popular neighbours including Black Axe Throwing Co, Lost City Adventure Golf, Movie House Cinemas and Gallaher’s Bar, strengthening Cityside’s position as one of Belfast’s leading leisure destinations.

With its focus on inclusivity, The Retro Room will be open to kids, teenagers and adults alike, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the atmosphere and experience.

The doors open on September 12th 2025. Find out more at www.retroroombelfast.com

Full Cast Announced For Ulster American At The Sanctuary Theatre

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East Belfast theatre company Bright Umbrella has announced the full cast for its upcoming production of Ulster American by David Ireland, which will run from Tuesday, August 26 to Saturday, September 6, 2025 at The Sanctuary Theatre.

Northern Irish actor James Boal will take on the role of Leigh Carver, an English theatre director whose ambition drives the central conflict in Ireland’s dark satire. He’ll be joined by Caroline Curran as Ruth Davenport and Andrew McClay as Jay Conway in a three-person cast exploring the volatile dynamics between identity, power, and art.

James is known for his bold, character-driven performances across stage, screen and immersive theatre. He played Mother Superior in Trainspotting Live, Christy in The Lieutenant of Inishmore, and Slim in Cyprus Avenue during its 2024 run at Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre.

Speaking about returning to David Ireland’s work, James said: “I’m a huge fan of David’s writing. His intense storytelling and razor-sharp dialogue. The hype around the play when it premiered in Edinburgh (where I live) was unreal, and when I read it I knew why.”

He added: “I played Slim in Cyprus Avenue alongside David Hayman as Eric. Seeing David’s play go to work on Scottish audiences was incredible, belly laughs to heartbreak in an instant. I have a feeling Ulster American is going to take Belfast audiences on that same intensely entertaining, unsettling and challenging wild ride.”

Known for his work across theatre and audio drama, James has appeared in BBC radio productions, independent film, and both UK touring shows and Belfast-based performances.

Reflecting on his character, he said: “Leigh Carver is the director of his friend Ruth Davenport’s play starring Oscar Award-winning actor Jay Conway. He’s ambitious, he has dreams of running the National Theatre… but what is he prepared to say and do in order to make that dream a reality?”

This production marks James’s first time performing at The Sanctuary Theatre. He commented: “It is a lovely and welcoming theatre. Most of all I’m looking forward to doing this play for a Belfast audience.”

He described the play as “a compelling heated debate about accountability, hypocrisy and political tensions, which is a brutally thrilling mess to see unfold. It’s satirical, it speaks to a lot of our current issues and it presents a number of challenges that will no doubt have audiences talking long into the night.”

Ulster American unfolds over the course of a single evening as three characters, an Oscar-winning American actor, a British director and a Northern Irish playwright, come together to discuss a new theatre production. What begins as a creative collaboration quickly spirals into confrontation, revealing uncomfortable truths and exposing the contradictions behind liberal ideals.

Speaking earlier about staging the play in East Belfast, director Trevor Gill said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from. We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.”

The play has gained a reputation for its sharp writing, graphic honesty, and disturbing commentary on privilege, consent, and cultural power. It has been described as “brutally funny” and “not for the faint of heart”.

The script critiques performative liberalism, misogyny in creative spaces, and the commodification of identity. It contains very strong language, graphic violence, and references to sexual assault.

Bright Umbrella Theatre Company, based at The Sanctuary Theatre, continues its commitment to socially relevant, high-quality productions with strong local connections. The production is part-funded by Belfast City Council and supports the company’s wider programme of performance, education, and community engagement.

Tickets for Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre are on sale now at www.brightumbrella.co.uk

Audience Favourite Caroline Curran To Star In Ulster American

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Belfast actor and writer Caroline Curran has been announced as part of the cast for Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s upcoming production of Ulster American by David Ireland.

The production will run from Tuesday, August 26 to Saturday, September 6, 2025 at The Sanctuary Theatre on Castlereagh Street in East Belfast, with evening performances at 7pm and a 2pm matinee on Saturday, September 6.

Caroline will play the role of Ruth Davenport, a Northern Irish playwright whose new script becomes the battleground for clashing egos and conflicting ideals. The play, which unfolds over a single evening, centres on a meeting between Ruth, an Oscar-winning American actor and an ambitious English director as they prepare for a new production. What begins as creative collaboration quickly unravels into confrontation.

Caroline said: “I play a character called Ruth Davenport, a writer from Belfast. She’s overjoyed that her play is being performed with a well-established actor. She’s intelligent, funny, but with a fiery side.”

She added: “I first read Ulster American in extracts that Bright Umbrella did for Bringing It All Back Home to celebrate writers from East Belfast. I was lucky enough to be reading the Ulster American extract with the part I am now cast in, so I am over the moon to be back.

“I have performed here before and I absolutely adore this space and the staff. I’m looking forward to audiences who have never been to the Sanctuary Theatre coming and seeing this very special place and enjoying a really funny, dark piece of theatre.”

Caroline is one of Northern Ireland’s most prolific comedy actors and writers. She’s widely known for playing Maggie Muff in 50 Shades of Red, White and Blue and was recently seen in Rough Girls on BBC, which was first performed at the Lyric Theatre after Covid. 

Her past credits include The Holy Holy Bus, Maggie’s Feg Run, The Real Housewives of Norn Iron and co-writing and performing in festive productions such as My Big Fat Belfast Christmas and Last Orders at the Rough Diamond.

She said: “I do play a lot of comedic roles and with this character I think people are going to get a real shock, in a good way, at how dark I can be. Ulster American is definitely a completely different role for me.”

She added: “I think the story is very relevant to today. It can be very graphic, as with all David Ireland’s plays. He is a master at his craft and he has a way of taking every audience on an emotional rollercoaster whilst also having the ability to shock and make you laugh.

“I have always admired his work and I’m genuinely so privileged to have been cast in one of his plays. It has always been a dream of mine to be in David’s plays, so hopefully I can do it justice.

“I look forward to making people laugh and shock them at the same time.”

Written by East Belfast playwright David Ireland, Ulster American is a dark satire exploring power, consent, and identity in the arts. It contains very strong language, graphic violence, and references to sexual assault.

The production is directed by Bright Umbrella founder and artistic director Trevor Gill, who previously said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from.

“We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.”

The production is part-funded by Belfast City Council and continues Bright Umbrella’s mission to present socially relevant, high-quality theatre to local audiences.

Tickets for Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre are on sale now at brightumbrella.co.uk

Northern Ireland’s £16 Billion Manufacturing Industry Unites for Flagship Event

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From Left: Alderman Amanda Grehan (Lord Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council) and Colin Murphy (Premier Publishing)

Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector, which generates an estimated £16 billion in economic value and supports nearly 100,000 jobs, will come together next month for its largest industry event of the year.

Around 2,500 delegates are expected to attend the Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on Thursday, 11 September 2025. The one-day event, in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), will bring together key figures from across the region’s engineering, production, and supply chain sectors for focused discussions on productivity, digital transformation, skills, and innovation.

Manufacturing accounts for around 14% of Northern Ireland’s GDP, well above the UK average of 9.8%, and is responsible for approximately 11% of total employment, according to recent data from Manufacturing NI.

The sector remains a vital pillar of the Northern Ireland economy, with recent analysis from the industry highlighting its continued strength despite ongoing global supply chain pressures and rising costs. While other UK regions have struggled to regain pre-pandemic output levels, Northern Ireland’s manufacturers have shown greater resilience and growth.

“This event has grown year on year, and we’re delighted to bring it to the Eikon Exhibition Centre in 2025,” said Colin Murphy, Founder and Chairman of Premier Publishing & Events. 

“The new venue allows us to grow alongside the sector and continue delivering an event that’s shaped around real challenges, practical solutions, and long-term industry impact. 

“We look forward to welcoming new and returning voices from across Northern Ireland’s industrial community.”

The conference will include contributions from over 100 speakers and host more than 150 exhibitors, with dedicated sessions exploring topics such as smart manufacturing and digital transformation; supply chain resilience and innovation; sustainability, precision engineering, 3D printing and the circular economy; and workforce and skills development.

The agenda reflects ongoing shifts in how goods are designed, produced and distributed in Northern Ireland and beyond. From robotics and AI to green technologies and strategic trade planning, manufacturers are grappling with transformation on multiple fronts.

Alderman Amanda Grehan, Lord Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, said the event plays a vital role in supporting industry momentum: “Lisburn is proud to host Northern Ireland’s largest manufacturing and supply chain event. It plays a key role in supporting our region’s businesses, encouraging innovation and driving job creation and economic growth. 

“This conference is a valuable opportunity for industry leaders to come together, exchange ideas and shape a stronger, more resilient future for manufacturing in Northern Ireland.”

According to organisers, the event will provide a critical platform for tackling the challenges facing the sector, particularly in areas like skills shortages, decarbonisation and technological change. 

It comes as the region’s manufacturers look to strengthen their position in global supply chains while taking advantage of Northern Ireland’s unique dual-market access to both the UK and EU.

With hundreds of companies from across the country represented, from advanced engineering firms and agri-tech manufacturers to logistics providers and digital innovators, the conference is expected to generate significant business activity, sector insight, and policy discussion.

Alongside headline sponsors, in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), the Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition is also supported by Inspire 3D, Henry R Ayton, Engenuity Cluster, FAST Technologies, Irish Manufacturing Research CLG, SA Partners, Inspire 3D and Target Integration.

Registration is free and further information and tickets are available at northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk

Game of Thrones Actor To Take To Stage in Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre

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Northern Irish actor Andrew McClay has been announced in the role of Jay Conway in the upcoming production of Ulster American by Bright Umbrella Theatre Company, running at The Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast from Tuesday, August 26 to Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Andrew, who rose to public attention through his appearances in Game of Thrones and the HBO documentary The Last Watch, will take on the role of an Oscar-winning American actor attempting to connect with his Irish roots in David Ireland’s provocative satire.

The Londonderry man has worked across stage and screen, with roles in The Ferryman at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre, the feature film Pixie opposite Alec Baldwin, and Ballywalter with Patrick Kielty. He has also trained at Bow Street in Dublin and continues to develop his craft through ongoing masterclasses and physical theatre work.

Speaking about the production, Andrew said: “The theme of the need for tribal identity, I find that fascinating. Also, the theme of sexism. I think in modern times, men can say they respect women but their actions can speak very much to the contrary.

“I play Jay Conway, Oscar-winning actor, who is intense and has been known to speak from his crotch.

“Having never acted in the Sanctuary, I am most looking forward to the intimacy of the venue. The building has history and character, I love places like that. Plus, it’s just down the road from the house.

“At the start of 2025 I performed as IRA heavy Laurence Malone in Jez Butterworth’s The Ferryman at the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin. If you cut Laurence, he’d bleed green, white and orange. Jay Conway, on the other hand, would be the type of guy to have an Ivory Coast flag in his basement and call it St Patties day.

“It’s mental and I watch a lot of mental stuff, so that’s saying something.

“If you love the craic, you’ll love this. And sure here, who doesn’t love the craic.”

Written by East Belfast playwright David Ireland, Ulster American is a darkly comic, satirical play that dissects privilege, identity, and the performance of liberal values in creative spaces.

The story unfolds over a single evening, as an Oscar-winning American actor, an ambitious English director, and a Northern Irish playwright clash over a new script. The meeting quickly descends into conflict as artistic intentions collide with personal agendas.

The production is directed by Trevor Gill, founder and artistic director of Bright Umbrella, who commented in the initial announcement: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from.

“We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.”

Ulster American deals with themes such as cultural identity, misogyny, power dynamics, and consent. It contains very strong language, graphic violence, and references to sexual assault.

Bright Umbrella Theatre Company, based at The Sanctuary Theatre, continues its commitment to staging socially relevant, challenging work for local audiences. This production, part-funded by Belfast City Council, marks the first full professional staging of Ulster American in East Belfast.

Tickets for Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre are on sale now at brightumbrella.co.uk

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