Author: Tina Calder

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

Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI Welcomes Landmark Genetic Proof of Biological Cause for M.E.

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A Northern Ireland charity has welcomed the results of the world’s largest genetic study into Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.), which has confirmed a biological basis for the condition.

The study, which includes participants from Northern Ireland, was led by the University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Genetics and Cancer.

The DecodeME study analysed the DNA of over 15,000 people diagnosed with M.E./CFS. The researchers identified eight genetic signals across the genome. These genetic differences, many of which are linked to the immune and nervous systems, provide long-awaited scientific proof that M.E. is not psychological but a serious, multi-system physical illness.

Founder of Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI, Joan McParland MBE, said: “We’re proud that patients in Northern Ireland contributed to this vital research. DecodeME has given scientific proof of what patients have known for decades, that ME is a serious, biological illness.”

The findings follow a series of significant developments for M.E. advocacy in Northern Ireland, including growing political support for specialist services and renewed public awareness campaigns. In May, 21 MLAs co-signed a letter to Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. The letter urged the Department of Health to adopt the My Full Reality: Delivery Plan for ME/CFS as a framework for local service provision.

Joan McParland added: “The science is clear. The need is urgent. This is a public health failure. 

“A recent study published by the University of Edinburgh has indicated there are estimated to be 12,500 adults and children with M.E. including post-Covid M.E in Northern Ireland.

“We urge the Department of Health and our elected representatives to respond to this evidence and finally deliver the services people with M.E. desperately need.”

Despite the number of people in Northern Ireland living with M.E. increasing from 7,500 to 12,500 in recent years Joan explained there is still no clinical lead, no specialist services and no commissioned care pathways for M.E. patients in the region.

Professor Tom Trinnick OBE, who retired as Clinical Director of Laboratory Medicine at South Eastern Trust in recent years welcomed the news.

Also a medical advisor for Hope 4 ME & Fibro, he said: “The groundbreaking DecodeME study of the genetics of patients with ME/CFS shows significant genetic differences in patient DNA compared to the general population.

“This will shape future research and focus treatment for this disabling chronic condition. These patients are very poorly served at present, often struggling with minimal or no support. This needs to change.”

DecodeME’s discovery reinforces the call for immediate investment in proper clinical care, professional education, and research across all regions. It also builds on recent awareness efforts by Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI. These include their World M.E. Day event at Stormont, which was attended by Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and a cross-party group of MLAs.

Joan McParland said: “The discovery of genetic differences by one of the UK’s most respected research institutions is a game-changer. 

“This must put an end to outdated misconceptions and lead to proper medical education, specialist clinics, and funded research, including here in Northern Ireland.”

DecodeME is funded by the Medical Research Council and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Further analysis is ongoing. The current results offer vital biological clues into M.E.’s cause and progression, particularly in relation to immune response and chronic pain.

More information about the DecodeME findings can be found at decodeme.org.uk/initial-dna-results

To learn more about the work of Hope 4 ME & Fibro Northern Ireland, go to hope4mefibro.org

Ulster American to Make East Belfast Debut in New Sanctuary Theatre Production

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Bright Umbrella Theatre Company is set to bring the provocative, award-winning play Ulster American to Belfast audiences this summer in a new production directed by company founder and artistic director Trevor Gill.

Written by David Ireland, Ulster American was first performed in 2018 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where it won the prestigious Carol Tambor Best of Edinburgh Award. The play has since gained a reputation for its bold, darkly comic exploration of identity, nationalism, and the uncomfortable tensions between art and politics. This latest production by Bright Umbrella marks the first time the show will be professionally staged in East Belfast.

The production will run from Tuesday, August 26 to Saturday, September 6, 2025 at The Sanctuary Theatre, Castlereagh Street, East Belfast, with performances each evening at 7pm. A matinee performance will take place at 2pm on Saturday, September 6.

Speaking about the decision to stage the play in the east of the city, 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 centres around an American film star, an English director, and a Northern Irish playwright who come together to discuss an upcoming production. As rehearsals begin, differences in politics, perspective, and personal agendas quickly spiral into chaos. 

Known for its sharp wit and unflinching commentary, the script challenges audiences to confront assumptions about power, privilege, and the narratives we tell ourselves.

Ulster American deals with themes such as cultural identity, liberal posturing, misogyny, and consent. It is a satire that critiques the abuse of power in creative spaces, the commodification of identity, and the performance of progressive values in the arts. It contains very strong language, graphic violence, and references to sexual assault.

Bright Umbrella Theatre Company, based at The Sanctuary Theatre, presents its own productions alongside visiting theatre, poetry, comedy and music. The company has consistently aimed to bring challenging, high-quality productions to local audiences, with a focus on socially relevant themes and educational outreach.

In recent years, Bright Umbrella has gained attention for its bold programming choices, including its reinterpretations of classical works with a strong emphasis on making theatre available and relevant to the surrounding community.

The company also supports a range of community engagement initiatives, including creative learning programmes and post-show discussions.

Trevor added: “We are not interested in theatre that plays it safe. This production is about holding up a mirror and asking difficult questions. It’s about making space for uncomfortable truths to be heard.”

The production, which is part-funded by Belfast City Council, will feature a cast of three, with full casting details to be announced in the coming weeks. Set design, lighting, and visual elements are currently in development to suit the venue’s close and atmospheric setting.

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

Northern Ireland Catering Company Table Turns BBQ Service into a Full Guest Experience

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A Belfast-based event catering business has seen demand surge for its outdoor BBQ offering, with its Trailblazer trailer now a standout feature at weddings, private parties and corporate events across Northern Ireland.

Table, run by local caterer Krystal Mohn, has placed charcoal BBQ catering at the centre of its operations. It offers what clients describe as a relaxed and sociable alternative to formal dining. Originally introduced as a supplementary option, the charcoal BBQ style has now become one of the company’s most requested services during peak season.

The business, which caters for weddings, family events, retreats, tour groups and corporate clients, travels across the country with its distinctive Trailblazer BBQ trailer. The trailer, which operates as both kitchen and serving station, offers cooked-on-site menus that focus on flavour, quality ingredients and genuine hospitality.

Krystal Mohn said: “Over time, the BBQ has become a central part of what we offer, from weddings and corporate events to private celebrations. It suits people who want something delicious and relaxed without the formality of a sit-down meal. We’ve done everything from back garden birthdays to full wedding receptions and day-two parties across the country, and it tends to suit all kinds of gatherings.”

Available all year round, the service is especially popular from spring through autumn for outdoor celebrations and festival-style events. During the colder months, it takes on a different feel, more like a winter market, with warming aromas and hot food served straight from the grill. The trailer is run as an open kitchen, inviting guests to see, smell and hear the food being cooked, sparking conversation and creating a natural focal point at any event.

Krystal explained: “The Trailblazer BBQ trailer isn’t just where the food comes from, it becomes part of the day. It naturally draws people in. There’s something about the smell of it, the sound of it, and seeing the food being cooked. It just adds to the whole experience. It’s not a burger van or a stage piece, just a working BBQ kitchen that adds atmosphere without taking over.”

Menus are based around freshly cooked meats, served in bakery-fresh brioche rolls with vibrant salads and seasonal grilled sides. Meat is sourced from McKee’s Farm Shop outside Newtownards, with a focus on flavour and freshness.

Typical BBQ menus feature marinated chicken, pork sausages and steak burgers. In winter, the offering shifts to include gratin potatoes, grilled vegetables and other hearty additions.

Festive bookings are limited and typically reserved for clients seeking something a little different. The setup lends itself to cosy gatherings, with hot food served in the open air and menus designed to suit the season. The BBQ menu still works brilliantly in winter, offering something warm, social and easy to enjoy even when the temperature drops.

One of the features that has made Table’s BBQ offering so popular is the level of attention given to dietary requirements. From the planning stage through to service on the day, Krystal and her team take steps to ensure guests with special diets are not treated as an afterthought.

Krystal said: “We’re known for looking after special diets, and it’s something we take seriously. We ask the right questions, plan ahead and keep meals separate wherever possible so guests can eat with confidence. Everyone should feel included and valued. That’s a big part of what we’re about.”

“While we can’t guarantee a completely allergen-free setup due to the mobile nature of our business, we always do our best to minimise risk. Menus are kept focused and well planned, and dietary needs are handled discreetly and with care so no one feels like a hassle.”

Table’s BBQ service is used for a wide range of events, from garden receptions in Belfast to coastal weddings, corporate away days, marquee weddings and family reunions, offering flexible outdoor catering across Northern Ireland. The trailer setup allows the team to operate in a variety of locations, with quick set-up and pack-down times making it suitable for both private homes and outdoor venues.

It’s also ideal for venues without kitchen facilities, including marquee weddings and remote sites where full catering might otherwise be a challenge.

The trailer is also a versatile option for all-day events, breakfast services or street food-style menus. For some corporate teambuilding days, the Table team has served breakfast on-site, followed by a lunchtime BBQ. Popular breakfast options include sausage and bacon baps or their signature breakfast hash. Street food favourites like burritos are also part of what we offer, keeping it flavour-packed.

“We started offering BBQs because we wanted to create something more relaxed. It’s delicious food, cooked fresh, with a bit of atmosphere. People really respond to that. It brings everyone together and feels a bit more special without being over the top,” said Krystal.

“Every guest should feel considered and confident in what they’re being offered, never like an afterthought.”

The company has also developed relationships with tour operators and local venues, delivering BBQs for visiting groups who want to enjoy locally sourced food in a laid-back, welcoming setting. Krystal said the casual style of catering works well for both local and international visitors who are looking for something different to formal dining.

“The BBQ trailer really reflects what we’re all about at Table. Delicious food, genuine hospitality and a relaxed, welcoming feel. Whether we’re cooking in a back garden, at a stunning venue or up along the North Coast, we want guests to feel looked after and leave well fed.”

To enquire or find out more, visit www.tablefood.co.uk or follow @tablefood.co on Instagram.

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