The Millennium Forum has just announced that popular comedian, Sarah Millican, will make a welcome return to the city on Friday 19th October 2018.
Tickets go on sale from the Box Office at 10am on Friday 30th June and are priced at £28.50.
Sarah Millican is not a control freak, she’s a control enthusiast. She even controls her own insults, see?
Do you arrange the nights out? Are you in charge of passports on holiday? Then so are you!
Whether you’re sorting the tickets for this show or turning up when you’re told to, welcome. You’ll learn about Rescue Men, what can happen at a bra fitting, the benefits of casserole, plus tips on how to talk to shop assistants and the correct way to eat a biscuit.
Following his triumphant Glastonbury Festival headline performance, Ed Sheeran is delighted to announce his Nationwide 2018 Ireland stadium tour. Kicking-off at Corks’s Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 4 & 5 May, Boucher Road Playing Fields in Belfast on 9 May, Galway’s Pearse Stadium on 12 & 13 May followed by Phoenix Park Dublin on 16 & 18 May.
General sale commences on Saturday 8th July at 9am at www.ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets Nationwide.
NB – there are no presales for this tour. All tickets will only become available on Saturday 8th July at 9am
Ed’s 2018 tour news closely follows the troubadour’s phenomenal Glastonbury headline performance. Commanding thousands at the Pyramid Stage on Sunday evening, pulling in one of the festival’s biggest-ever crowds, and with over 3 million viewers tuning in from home, Ed continues his rise as one of the world’s most successful and unique musical talents.
Released in March this year, Ed’s third studio album ÷ (pronounced “divide”) reigns as 2017’s biggest-selling album of the year thus far, having sold over 8 million copies, globally, in the space of three months. The album is currently 7 times Platinum in Ireland and Ed’s gigantic comeback single “Shape of You” has surpassed 1.5 BILLION streams in less than six months!
It was recently announced that Ed, who was recently awarded a Songwriters Hall of Fame 2017 Hal David Starlight Award for his contribution to music, is soon to be honoured with an MBE for his services to music and charity.
2018 IRISH TOUR
Friday 4 May CORK Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Saturday 5 May CORK Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Wednesday 9 May BELFAST Boucher Road Playing Fields
Saturday 12 May GALWAY Pearse Stadium
Sunday 13 May GALWAY Pearse Stadium
Wednesday 16 May DUBLIN Phoenix Park
Friday 18 May DUBLIN Phoenix Park
IMPORTANT NOTICE ON SECONDARY TICKETS – PLEASE READ Ed and his team have a strict stance against anyone using secondary ticketing websites for profit. On this tour, any tickets that are resold will not be valid – this means no profit to touts and no one getting ripped off. On all the stadium dates you will be required to bring your tickets, booking confirmation and credit card, plus a valid form of ID or you will not be granted entry to the show.
Tickets for ED SHEERAN’S Irish Tour 2018 go on sale Saturday 8 July at 9.00am from:-
NOT only will this year’s Dubai Duty Free Irish Open hosted by the Rory Foundation be one of the biggest sporting events on the island of Ireland, its reputation as a true festival of golf for all ages has been enhanced with the announcement that the practice day on Tuesday will be open to the general public.
With the golfing spectacle now moved to July – when schools have shut for the summer – ‘Family Tuesday’ (July 4) offers a particularly great day out for families to go and see their golf heroes up close and enjoy the many family activities ahead of what is expected to be the biggest Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in the tournament’s 90-year history.
With adult tickets for ‘Family Tuesday’ costing just £15 and kids enjoying free entry up to the age of 16 all week, an entire family can enjoy a fun day out from just £30.
As well as watching reigning champion Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Justin Rose and many more of the world’s best golfers prepare for the main competition, which tees off on the Thursday (July 6), the tented village will play host to a variety of family-themed activities and entertainment.
Dubai Duty Free Irish Open Championship Director Simon Alliss said: “The Northern Irish golf fans have become renowned as some of the best in the world and have always shown up in such huge numbers every day of the week in past editions of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
“Family Tuesday gives fans an opportunity to see their heroes up close and personal as they play their practice rounds, and we think that £15 for parents and free entry for children up to the age of 16 represents incredible value for golf-mad families.
“With lots of entertainment lined up for Tuesday, it really promises to be a fun day out for all the family as part of what has become an ever-growing festival of golf in recent years.”
‘Family Tuesday’ will kick-start six days of top class golfing entertainment. Wednesday will see the tournament’s Pro-Am take place with the opening ceremony that evening featuring a live performance on the music stage from local heroes Two Door Cinema Club, who will be playing their only Northern Ireland show this year.
Then the serious business of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will get under way the following morning with play beginning on Thursday July 6 and finishing on Sunday July 9 before the event wraps up with a closing performance from English band Scouting For Girls.
As part of the Rolex Series, with an increased prize fund of US$7 million, fans at this year’s event can expect to see Rory McIlroy defend his title for the first time against some of the world’s best golfers, with Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Rose, Jon Rahm, Shane Lowry, Rafa Cabrera Bello, Lee Westwood, Padraig Harrington, Danny Willett, Graeme McDowell, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood and Darren Clarke also confirmed to compete.
Tickets for the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open hosted by the Rory Foundation are on sale at www.dubaidutyfreeirishopen.com, and begin at £15 for ‘Family Tuesday’ with free entry for children under the age of 16 (limited to three children per adult).
Pro-Am Wednesday tickets, including opening ceremony concert, cost just £20, with tickets for Thursday and Friday costing £40 and day tickets for the weekend costing £45.
An adult season souvenir ticket, which covers six days of world class golf from Wednesday to Sunday, costs just £100 (a saving of £105 over the course of the six days).
Concessions are available for customers aged over 60 and between 16 and 21, while children under 16 are permitted free entry when accompanied by a ticket holding adult.
To get a full seated view of all of the drama at the 18th green, grandstand tickets cost an additional £11.50 for Thursday and Friday, £16.50 for Saturday and £21.50 for Sunday.
Official Hospitality packages are also available on the ticketing page, or alternatively contact the European Tour’s dedicated Hospitality Sales Team, who will be happy to answer any queries and discuss the various hospitality options, on enquiries@europeantourhospitality.com or +44 (0) 1344 840681.
DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 3-9).
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open 2017, 4-9 July. Host Rory McIlroy will defend his title against Cabrera Bello, Hideki Matsuyama, John Rahm and Justin Rose at Portstewart Golf Club. And there’s more than just world-class golf to enjoy, with music from Two Door Cinema Club and Scouting for Girls.
Irish Open 2017 Fringe Festival, Portstewart, 5-9 July. The Crescent area will be transformed into a live music venue and outdoor cinema, creating a unique tournament atmosphere in the host town with fireworks and children’s entertainment. Midsummer Sessions, a spin-off from the popular Atlantic Sessions, will see over 30 musicians playing free gigs in bars, hotels, coffee shops and restaurants.
Family Festival at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, 4-6 July. The building will come alive with circus performers, face painters, balloon modellers, a treasure hunt and a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of Northern Ireland’s oldest theatre.
Belfast Parkland International Golf Tournament, 3-5 July. The most prestigious three courses within the Belfast area, Malone Golf Club, Royal Belfast Golf Club and Shandon Park Golf Club have come together to offer this unique parkland international golf tournament.
Country Music Gala Cabaret & Dance, Newcastle, 6 July. The Burrendale Hotel will feature a galaxy of homegrown stars for an action-packed show, including Billy McFarland, Shaun Loughery, Eddie Carey, Tracey Mallon, Cowboy Larry, Farmer Dan and the fabulous Barry Doyle Band.
Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 2 July. Enjoy laid-back tunes and relaxation in the courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
Music by the Lake, Fermanagh, 8 July. Bring a picnic to Crom Estate for a rocking evening of ‘folkabilly’ tunes from local supergroup, the Hand me Downs. Relax by the shores of Lough Erne and enjoy a glass of wine on arrival.
The Celts take a ‘Swing’ at Golf, Armagh, 5-9 July. While the golfing warriors thrash out the golf in Portstewart, visit the Navan Centre and see if you’ve got what it takes to become a great Celtic Warrior, who used the skills of the ‘stick’ to perfect their skills, as warriors on the battlefield.
Launch Party: Open Studio Weekends at Margey’s Portrush Gallery, 7 July. Artist Adrian Margey is opening his studio and gallery space to the public each weekend in July and August to showcase his summer collection.
Summer Music in the Park, Bangor, 9 July. Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic in Ward Park and take in the sound of The Salvation Army Brass Band.
Summer Music in the Park makes a welcome return this weekend to Ward Park, Bangor. This is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic and take in the sounds of weekly live music throughout July and August. This Sunday enjoy the sound of Jazz the Park with The Jazzmeisters , 3.00pm to 5.00pm.
Armagh
Join The National Trust at The Argory every Sunday in July for laid back tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on a summer BBQ. Normal admission charges apply, members go free.
Fermanagh
Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park this Sunday 2nd July. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Booking essential – contact Marble Arch Caves (+44(0)2866348855) to book your place. This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old.
Tyrone
This Friday 30th June all roads lead to Cookstown for the Cookstown Summer Carnival! This is a free family event taking place from 6.00pm to 10.30pm with live entertainment, a food village, fairground and a spectacular street party on Burn Road. Lots of fun for all the family to enjoy! The carnival parade begins at 6.00pm. Call 028 8676 3398 for more information.
Derry
Fireworks Dance, Drama and Theatre Academy celebrate their 4th Birthday with an exhilarating performance of “Feux d’artifice: Équilibre et Espoir” this Saturday 1st July at the Millennium Forum. An evening of inspiring entertainment awaits as over 100 energetic cast members fulfil the company motto, ‘Let YOUR Colours EXPLODE!’
Antrim
Come along to Larne Museum’s free Children’s Art Workshop on Saturday 1st July from 11.00am to 1.00pm and make your very own Shoebox Dolls House to take home! Participants are asked to bring along a shoebox and a home magazine. If possible also bring a lightweight cardboard box, scissors and a 30cm scrap of wallpaper. Places are limited and should be booked in advance by contacting Larne Museum & Arts Centre.
Belfast
QFT Late: Cult & Classic continues with the Coen Brothers’ achingly funny quasi-detective story, this Friday 30th June at 9.00pm. Jeff Bridges is The Dude, a fortysomething stoner who lives only for bowling, White Russians and his rug. But when some unhappy gangsters barge into his home and soil said rug it kicks off a tale of mistaken identity, chopped-off toes and German nihilists that will have you in fits of laughter.
For more 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.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.
Celebrate ‘Schools out for the Summer’ on Thursday 29 June, as Chapterhouse Theatre Company present an all new production of Peter Pan in the beautiful surroundings of Mossley Mill.
Bring along your picnics and low back seating and join Wendy, Michael and John Darling on their adventures with Peter. Far away on the magical island of Neverland they encounter the enchanting mermaids, magical fairies and the cruellest pirate of them all, Captain Hook.
Presented by special arrangement with Samuel French and in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity, J.M. Barrie’s timeless classic is brought to life in a brand new adaptation by award winning writer Laura Turner. With beautifully designed costumes, music and songs, join Peter and his friends for what promises to be the most magical evening of the summer. Gates open from 5pm and show starts at 6pm. Tickets available online www.theatreatthemill.com or Box Office
Summer officially arrives at the Ward Park Bandstand on Sunday 2nd July when this much loved music in the park programme starts.
The Jazzmeisters will perform in Ward Park on 2nd July between 4pm-6pm as part of this year’s Summer Music programme which runs every Sunday in July and August.
Now in its 12th year, happening every Sunday throughout July and August, between 3pm and 5pm. This year’s line-up offers a different vibe each week including Rock ‘n’ Roll, brass, blues, flamenco and punk ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy!
First up will be the fantastic Jazzmeisters playing a cool mix of hot swing and classic standards made famous by icons such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and modern maestro Jamie Cullum.
Please note this week’s performance is at the later time of 4pm to facilitate the Somme Service in the park.
So gather friends, family and a picnic and enjoy!
Look out for details of each week’s artist in local press and keep up to date with all summer events at www.vistardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for an ideal short break. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.
Legenderry Golf Break, Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry, from £123. Head to the famous Walled City of Derry~Londonderry and enjoy one night’s B&B at the 4* Everglades Hotel with golf at nearby Castlerock Golf Club, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with beautiful views along the Causeway Coast. Midweek £123 per person sharing/ weekend £135 per person sharing. Offer ends 31 October.
Family break on top of the Mournes, Spelga House, Co. Down, from £325. Stay in luxury at the highest house in Northern Ireland on top of the spectacular Mourne Mountains. Enjoy a weekend B&B for a family of up to 10 people in September/October/November. The 4* Spelga House has a games room and Jacuzzi. Fresh eggs and wheaten bread included with your stay. Offer valid until 26 November.
Girls’ weekend away, Robeth Cottage, Co. Tyrone, from £47pppn. This 4* cottage is a cosy, beautifully designed holiday home nestled in a peaceful location in the stunning Co Tyrone landscape. The property sleeps four and a package can be tailored for each group’s stay, from a private chef serving a three-course meal to freshly-baked afternoon tea delivered to the doorstep. Offer valid until 30 November. To book call (017) 89 720027.
DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place this week (June 26 – July 2).
Winged Wonders Butterfly Hunt, Craigavon, 1 July. Make a bee-line for Portmore Lough and join the RSPB NI team as they search for beautiful butterflies, darting dragonflies and damselflies in the reserve’s meadows.
Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 2 July. Enjoy laid-back tunes and relaxation in the courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
Cuilcagh Mountain Jeep Safari, Enniskillen, 2 July. Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Booking essential (028 66 348855).
Music City, Derry~Londonderry, until 27 June. The city becomes one giant performance space with music of all genres in the streets, squares, venues, churches and communities. Derry’s choral tradition is showcased throughout the festival on the main outdoor stages while the historic walls will feature performances from pipe bands, flute bands and trad musicians.Most events are free of charge and family friendly.
Feux d’artifice: Équilibre et Espoir, Derry~Londonderry, 1 July. Fireworks Dance, Drama and Theatre Academy celebrate their fourth birthday with this exhilarating performance. An evening of inspiring entertainment awaits from over 100 energetic cast members.
Derek Ryan Summer Concert, Slieve Donard Resort, Newcastle, 29 June. Irish country music’s golden boy has chart topping albums, self-written smash hit singles, box office busting live tours and an army of faithful fans around the world. So dust off your dancing boots and get on down to Newcastle for a night of foot tapping country music.
Belsonic, Belfast, various dates. Green Day, Axwell ^ Ingrosso and The Chainsmokers are headlining this week at Belsonic’s new venue, Ormeau Park.
The Ladykillers, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, 10 June – 8 July. A celebrated black comedy tale of a sweet innocent old lady, alone in her home, pitted against a gang of criminal misfits who will stop at nothing.
Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market, Ballymoney, 30 June. Colourful art and crafts, the delicious smell and taste of fresh food produce and the sound of musicians providing a backdrop to the buzz of traders and customers chatting and laughing.
Comber Historical Walking Tour, County Down, 2 July. Stroll through the home town of Thomas Andrews, designer of the Titanic, and discover points of historical interest on this guided tour. Visit St Mary’s Parish Church, the Comber Stones, the old Andrews Mill and Andrews Memorial Hall on your tour of this charming town.
‘Race of Legends’ 2017 launch with look back at original Road Racers
PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 21/6/2017: Armoy road races Clerk of the Course, Bill Kennedy is joined by road racers Dominic Herbertson, Adam McLean, Neil Kernohan, Darryl Tweed, Roger Chen, Christian Elkin, Paul Jordan, Paul Robinson, Gary Dunlop and William Dunlop at the launch of the 2017 Armoy road races today. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON
THE youngest national road race in Ireland, the Armoy Road Races, confirmed this week that leading TT newcomer at the Isle of Man TT 2017, Adam McLean, will be at this year’s races on the renowned three-mile circuit come Friday 28th and Saturday 29th July 2017.
Joining Adam (McLean), a previous winner of the Junior Support at Armoy, will be local men William Dunlop, Neil Kernohan, Paul Jordan, Darryl Tweed, Paul Robinson, Gary Dunlop, Hexham rider Dominic Herbertson and Moto3/125 GP race winner Christian Elkin, winner of Moto3/125 GP race in 2016. With entries yet to close (3rd July) and the 2017 TT just finished, many riders are now turning their attention to Armoy and confirming their attendance.
The announcement was made at the official launch of the Roadside Kia ‘Race of Legends’, which was held at Gracehill House, Stranocum on Wednesday 21 June 2017 alongside a keynote presentation from David Wallace, the film producer of Road Racers and a local Dunloy man.
2017 is the 40th anniversary of the original 1977 documentary, which truly captured the heady mixture of three local men, their families and their passion, drive and love of road racing. He gave a short presentation on why and how the film was made but having won two BAFTAs for other work, David freely admits that “the Road Racers film gets talked about more than anything else. I wanted to produce a genuine documentary in Road Racers that would give an insight into something very special but I was taken by surprise by its success.” Some key scenes of the film depict the three riders, Joey Dunlop, Mervyn Robinson and Frank Kennedy, riding through the village of Armoy where they often tested their bikes.
Bill Kennedy MBE, Chairman and Clerk of the Course, AMRRC said, “We are delighted to host, film producer and local man, David Wallace. It is difficult to comprehend that this film, Road Racers, was made 40 years ago, let alone the impact this film would have in years to come, the place it has in people’s hearts and the iconic level that it has reached across the whole road racing community.
“The Armoy Road Races came about as most of you know, after a bit of craic in a local pub. It’s hard to believe come September that we will be in our tenth year and that we continue to celebrate all of our road racers, past and present, including the reputed Armoy Armada.
“It is also hard to be believe how exceptionally fast 2017 is disappearing but we are on target with our planning. With additional monies from the Department of Communities and some work on the roads, courtesy of Transport NI, these races are set to be one of the best.
“William Dunlop was man of the meeting in 2016 and I’ve no doubt he will be keen to revisit his Armoy winning streak. As of yet, brother, Michael Dunlop, who retains the title of Race of Legends winner, having won in six successive years has yet to confirm his entry but the Club is hopeful he will race on his home course come July.
“VIP Corporate Hospitality Tickets are selling exceptionally well with folks from as far away as Wexford and Shropshire as well as Aberdeen en route. It’s getting down to those last few weeks, last minute riders’ entries, final preparations for setting up the course and then we will be ready for the best national race in Ireland.”
Also in attendance were the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Joan Baird, Terence Brannigan, Chairman of Tourism Northern Ireland, members of the Armoy Club and other guests and sponsors including title “Race of Legends” sponsor, Roadside Kia.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Joan Baird, who attended the launch said, “The Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is delighted to continue their support of the Armoy Road Races. For us it is one of our key sporting events and we are only too happy to be involved and show our support.”
Terence Brannigan, Tourism NI Chairman also commented, “Armoy Road Races are one of Northern Ireland’s prime motorsport gatherings, attracting motorcycle riders and spectators both locally and internationally. As the event goes from strength to strength it has an important role to play in tourism, in contributing to the economy and in enhancing our reputation as a destination.
“Given that this event is built on such a strong heritage, this is a great opportunity for many of the visitors who come to the races and stay, to explore the area and visit the many other sights and events that it has to offer.”
Mr David Boyd, Roadside Kia, title sponsor said: “Now that the TT is over, it’s getting to the stage that most of us are patiently waiting for the next road racing event. The Armoy Road Races is one of the must attend events and I for one, along with my team at Roadside Kia, just can’t wait until Race Week. We are very proud to be associated with this event.”
Bill Kennedy concluded: “I’d like to finish by thanking event sponsors Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Tourism NI for their very kind support. I’d also like to thank our title sponsor Roadside Kia. Without the support and sponsorship from these organisations and other sponsors present here today, the event just wouldn’t be possible.
“I often don’t get a chance to publicly thank the many hard working Club members and volunteers but as with the sponsors these races wouldn’t happen without their input. Now there’s still a bit of work to be done, but I look forward to seeing you all on Friday 28th July and Saturday 29th July 2017!”
This year, Bike Week runs from Sunday 23rd July until Saturday 29th July with the races taking place on Friday 28th July and Saturday 29th July 2017 culminating in the Roadside Kia ‘Race of Legends’. The Armoy Road Races are part funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
For more information on Armoy Road Races, visit www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on twitter @ArmoyRoadRaces.
Tickets go on sale from the Box Office at 10am on Friday 30th June and are priced at £28.50.
With the golfing spectacle now moved to July – when schools have shut for the summer – ‘Family Tuesday’ (July 4) offers a particularly great day out for families to go and see their golf heroes up close and enjoy the many family activities ahead of what is expected to be the biggest Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in the tournament’s 90-year history.
Legenderry Golf Break, Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry, from £123. Head to the famous Walled City of Derry~Londonderry and enjoy one night’s B&B at the 4* Everglades Hotel with golf at nearby Castlerock Golf Club, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with beautiful views along the Causeway Coast. Midweek £123 per person sharing/ weekend £135 per person sharing. Offer ends 31 October.
