Chart toppers Hothouse Flowers among the headliners!

THE Holywood Harmony Festival has announced a three-day line-up that is set to boost the growing reputation of the volunteer-run spectacle.

Hothouse Flowers, Ulaid & Duke Special and Gareth Dunlop will headline each day from Friday June 2 to Sunday June 4 respectively.

Now in its third year the County Down festival is a family-friendly event, guaranteed to further enhance what was so well-run that not only did it bring in tourists to the town, but was shortlisted for the Best Tourism Event at the North Down Business Awards for last year’s efforts.

On Friday June 2, Ulaid and Duke Special will be supported by The Emerald Armada and Red House.

On Saturday June 3, The Hothouse Flowers will be supported by The Nat Youle Band and singer/songwriter Ciaran McElhinney.

On Sunday June 4, Gareth Dunlop will be supported by Dana Masters and Sam Wickens.

“We’re delighted to be able to secure such well respected and well known artists,” said organiser Mari Jackson. “In addition to the superb headliners, to have a top lineup of support artists from across Northern Ireland coming to entertain Holywood and a raft of visitors is brilliant.”

The festival is a non-profit organisation, and to help make 2017 even better at the festival there is a crowd-funding campaign to lay on other events, including free ones for children, families and the elderly.

“With your support, no matter how big or small Holywood will be celebrating an event that helps put the town on the map as a tourist destination, brings people to the shops and businesses in the town, and gives us all three wonderful days of musical fun,” said Mari.

For tickets log onto www.wegottickets.com/location/15677 or check out www.harmonyfest.co.uk and www.facebook.com/HolywoodHarmonyFestival for more information

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott officially launched the Darkness Into Light charity walk/run which will take place on Saturday 6 May 4.15am in V36 at The Valley.

The Darkness Into Light concept was first started in 2009 by Pieta House Suicide Awareness and Crisis Centre in Dublin, with a few hundred people supported this first event and walked from the darkness into the dawn light to symbolise that there is hope for those in despair. Today Darkness Into Light is the flagship fundraising and awareness event for Pieta House, with over 130,000 worldwide supporting the event last year.

This year the Council is also working with two local charities Turning Point and Focus, who are both based in Antrim and help support those with suicidal thoughts and mental health problems. In addition Tesco’s and Newtownabbey PSNI are lending their support to raise awareness of this event to gain maximum community support.

Darkness Into Light has become an International event, held annually in over 100 locations across 4 continents and made its debut in V36 in 2016 when over 700 took part. We are delighted to host this event once again in V36 on Saturday 6 May.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor John Scott commented “Statistics have shown Northern Ireland has the UK’s highest record of suicide with an average of six suicides a week. I am personally delighted to be backing this event now in its second year. Darkness Into Light is about offering hope to people in their time of need. I would encourage you all to show your support and help raise awareness of suicide prevention by registering for this 5km walk/run.”

Darkness Into Light will take place on Saturday 6 May at 4.15am in V36 when participants will walk or run into the light as dawn breaks. This event is being organised in conjunction with and in support of Pieta House, Turning Point and Focus.

Please show your support for this event and register today. http://dil.pieta.ie. Early Bird booking offer ends Friday 31 March.

 

Oscar Wilde’s most enduring classic to hit the MAC stage 

The MAC, Belfast, Wednesday 8 March, 2017: The Importance of Being Earnest, Oscar Wilde’s most famous farce, is set to take to the MAC stage in Belfast this month. Regarded as one of his finest works, this humorous take on Victorian high society is arguably one of the Irish playwright’s most enduring comedies, with some of the funniest and well-known lines of any of Wilde’s plays.

A new co-production by Bruiser Theatre Company and the MAC, showing exclusively at the MAC this spring, The Importance of Being Earnest will open for a three-week run from 24 March until 15 April 2017.

The recurring themes of marriage, courtship and mundane social obligations ring as true today in this punchy retelling of the classic as when Wilde first put pen to paper.

Boasting some of the funniest lines in the English language, this is Earnest for a 2017 audience interpreted by an all-male cast.

Starring Joseph Derrington as protagonist Algernon Moncrieff and Joseph O’Malley as Jack Worthing, who become entangled in a hilarious plot, forcing each to maintain their fictitious personae ‘Earnest’ to win the hearts of two endearing ‘women’.

Simon Magill, Creative Director at the MAC, said: “The MAC is an organisation that champions new, innovative artistic experiences for audiences and artists alike. We’re delighted to present Wilde’s classic in Bruiser Theatre Company’s vibrant theatrical style.  The Importance of Being Earnest will be a guaranteed night of entertaining fun for those familiar with and new to Oscar Wilde.”

Lisa May, Director, Bruiser Theatre Company said: “Our adaption of The Importance of Being Earnest is a real treat for lovers of classic Wilde, but also for theatre-goers looking for an all-out comedy night at theatre. In our version, we stay true to Wilde’s original words and characters, but deliver in the unique Bruiser style.

“We’ve been working hard to tackle Wilde’s comic masterpiece – bringing to the fore timeless themes of relationships and identity, still as relevant to audiences today as ever.”

For theatre-goers seeking to embrace an added taste of the Victorian era before the show, the MAC’s in-house café and restaurant NATIVE will be offering a delightful afternoon tea spread from just £13 per person before the 25 March matinee.

Tickets for The Importance of Being Earnest and the one-off afternoon tea at NATIVE are now on-sale at themaclive.com.

 MICKY TO DON HIS APRON AND RUN COMIC RELIEF’S PIZZA KITCHEN ON BBC1 THIS FRIDAY!

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Wednesday 24^th May – SOLD OUT

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Thursday 25^th May – EXTRA SHOW ADDED

 3Arena, Dublin: Thursday 19^th October – SOLD OUT

3Arena, Dublin: Friday 20^th October – EXTRA SHOW ADDED

Micky Flanagan has added second dates in Belfast’s SSE Arena on May 25^th & Dublin’s 3Arena on October 20^th … due to phenomenal demand.

This Friday 24 March, Comic Relief takes over the O2 in London for the biggest night of comedy to ever grace the BBC. The venue will host a Comedy Kitchen run by Micky and fellow comic Joe Lycett from 7pm on BBC1. Micky will later join presenters live in studio to report how it all went.

Micky’s brand new show ‘An Another Fing’  follows his record breaking “Back In The Game” tour of 2013 which took in an incredible 129 shows – making it the biggest comedy tour in the world that year – having sold an unbelievable 500,000 tickets in the UK and Ireland alone.

 

The reviews were nothing short of celebratory, The Times exclaimed, “Micky Flanagan is on fire” *****, The Daily Star said he was “at the top of his game” *****, and The Daily Telegraph proclaimed “Flanagan is the man of the moment, comedy’s meteoric success” ****.

 

TICKETS ON SALE NOW:

 

The SSE Arena, Belfast Box Office: Tel. 02890 739074
Book On Line: www.ssearenabelfast.com

 

Ticketmaster: In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour):   0844 277 44 55 (ROL: 0818 719300)
Book On Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

There are some dates that you never want to forget.  A birthday is one, and Mothering Sunday is another, although it can be confusing to keep track of the latter with the date changing each year.

This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 26^th March and is a day designated to celebrate your mum, nan, grandmother or that special person in your life who has inspired and looked out for you over the years.

Tourism Northern Ireland Destination PR Officer Rachel Quigg says “From award-winning spas where you can relax and unwind to afternoon tea experiences and stunning places to visit there is something for everyone to enjoy together this Mother’s Day in Northern Ireland.”  

Tourism Northern Ireland has put together a list of ideas to help you plan the perfect Mother’s Day this Sunday.

MAKE THIS MOTHER’S DAY MAGICAL IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Spa-tacular Days
Take some time out from the stress of everyday life and make you mum feel like a queen for the day with some well-deserved pampering.

Galgorm Resort & Spa, Co. Antrim
Set in an idyllic woodland location this four-star resort offers a wealth of packages having recently undergone a major expansion. A new Indoor & Outdoor Spa Village has been created which is the first of its kind in Ireland offering luxurious thermal spa facilities, where you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature less than an hour from Belfast.

Lavender Health Spa, Co. Tyrone
From its origin Lavender Health Spa was designed to revive the mind and body. Found in the shadow of the ancient monument at Errigal’s old monastery, the spa overlooks one of the most beautiful valleys in Northern Ireland. Guests to the spa can choose from a collection of Holistic and Deep Relaxation treatments before relaxing in the Thermal Suite.

SOAK Seaweed Bathhouse, Co. Down
Situated in the beautiful seaside town of Newcastle, SOAK offers a wide range of health, beauty and holistic spa treatments where you can relax in a silky hot seaweed bath or revive yourself with a sensual Spa treatment at Soothe treatment rooms.

Tantalising Afternoon Teas
Wherever you find yourself in Northern Ireland, there are lots of venues to choose from in the search for a luxurious afternoon tea.

Titanic Belfast, Belfast
Treat your mum to a special Afternoon Tea in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning replica staircase. Enjoy the delicious menu featuring a selection of finger sandwiches, mouth-watering cakes and exquisite éclairs to the sounds of a live jazz band!  Plus, every mother in attendance will receive a special gift from Titanic Belfast. To book call 028 90 76 6386.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Co. Down
This Mother’s Day, treat your mum and loved ones to a delicious Afternoon Tea at the Kingfisher Kitchen at Castle Espie, and enjoy demonstrations on this season’s latest fashion trends with special guests Susan Lusty of Captain Tortue and jewellery specialist, Honor Knox. To book call 028 91 874146.

The Argory, Co. Armagh
Treat your mum by taking her along to The Argory this Mothering Sunday. This stunning 19^th century Victorian mansion provides the perfect backdrop for an Afternoon Tea consisting of finger sandwiches, Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other traditional delights. To book call 028 87 784753

Places To Wander
From the majestic Mourne Mountains to the dramatic Causeway Coastal Route and the stunning waterways of the Fermanagh Lakelands, Northern Ireland is home to inspirational locations waiting to be explored.

Glenariff Forest Park, Co. Antrim
Take some time this Sunday and explore the famous Glens of Antrim, each with its own scenic drive. Don’t miss Glenariff Forest Park, set in the ‘Queen of the Glens’, with bracing walks and beautiful waterfalls – ideal for a picturesque photo opportunity with the family.

Florence Court, Co. Fermanagh
Within the grounds of Florence Court, you’ll find a mansion house, gardens, visitor centre and woodland walks.  The house is one of the most important Georgian Houses in Ireland, and holds a fascinating collection of furniture.  In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew, a stunning walled garden and floral trellis walkway, perfect for an afternoon walk this Sunday.

Mourne Mountains, Co. Down
The Mournes is home to Northern Ireland’s highest mountain peak, Slieve Donard, and is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis’ magical world of Narnia.  Why not combine this Mother’s Day with a literary adventure in Co. Down with a visit to the Mourne Mountains and The Narnia Trail at Kilbroney Park.

For more information and ideas for Mother’s Day experiences in Northern Ireland visit www.discovernorthernireland.com/mothersday or visit your local visitor information centre.

An exciting two day event is coming to the bustling town of Holywood on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 March 2017.

This two day, free, family event will celebrate all things Fashion and Food in Holywood.

Come along and sample the finest foodie delights at the pop-up restaurants or learn how to whip up a range of delicious dishes at the demonstration kitchen, demonstrated by local chefs.

Head to the Food Market where you will find everything from gourmet ingredients, home-made treats or a quick bite to eat.

If fashion is your passion then don’t miss the Fashion Zone where you can get your hands on this seasons must haves.

End your weekend in style and sneek a peek at the latest trends at the Fashion Show. Here you can watch a parade of models showcasing collections from some of Holywood’s finest boutiques.

With music, performance, radio roadshow, children’s entertainment zone and so much more to keep the entire family entertained.

Head to Holywood and enjoy the fun, Friday 24 March (1pm – 9pm) and Saturday 25 March (10am – 9pm).

Further information available at visitardsandnorthdown.com and Facebook ArdsandNorthDownBoroughCouncil

Fashion AND Food in Holywood is supported by The Department for Communities.

Glenarm-born singer/songwriter Ben Glover will take to the stage at Flowerfield Arts Centre later this month.

The gig on Thursday 30^th March is part of his Emigrant tour – the same title Glover has chosen for his new album.

And it’s easy to see where he draws his inspiration– Irish-born but now based in Nashville, Glover’s world is split in two with an ocean in between.

Co-produced along with Neilson Hubbard, the album features six traditional folk songs and four original compositions (including co-writes with Gretchen Peters, Mary Gauthier, and Tony Kerr) as he addresses the universal theme and personal challenge of immigration.

“Over the past couple of years, I have been going through the process of getting my U.S. Green Card, so the reality of immigration was very present in my world,” Glover says. Not only did he have to slice through web of bureaucratic issues, he also found himself face-to-face with the bigger questions posed by the process. “Contemplations like ‘what and where is home?’ were never far from my thoughts,” he said.

The Flowerfield event will showcase songs from the new album, including the title track which Glover started writing while on a rural writing retreat in Ireland.

It was completed with Gretchen Peters in Nashville, and when the song arrived, it unlocked a desire to make an album that brought together an older tradition with a present-day spirit.

Tickets are available online at www.eventbrite.co.uk or through Flowerfield Arts Centre. Please contact 028 7083 1400.

For the first time, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council will be showcasing the best of what Antrim Town retailers and bespoke boutiques have on offer for spring 2017, styled by Pearl Mitchell from Style Solutions.

A contemporary spring fashion and beauty show will take place on Saturday 8 April in Castle Mall from 12pm to 3pm. Audiences will be treated to a stunning selection of the latest high street style trends including colours, cuts, patterns, textiles and silhouettes. As well as clothing and accessories, there will be hair and makeup demonstrations to help to complete the look.  There will also be some gorgeous mini models showcasing the fashion trends for children this spring so why not come along and support your local shops?

The event will be hosted by Nuala Meenehan, one of Northern Ireland’s top models and Ulster Tatler columnist. Throughout the event she will be passing on her expertise to the models selected for the fashion show to ensure that Antrim puts its best foot forward.  For more information T. 028 9446 3113 or Email Karen.Uprichard@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.

Armoy Club thanks long-standing title sponsor SGS International

THE Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club has announced that title sponsorship for their ninth races in 2017 is up for grabs and has thanked long standing Club supporter SGS International.

 

Bill Kennedy, Clerk of the Course of Armoy Road Races, said, “We would like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to Brian McGrath and SGS International. Brian’s support over the years has been unwaivering and Armoy Road Races would not be in the position it is today without his and the company’s fantastic support. 

Brian McGrath, SGS International said: “It has been a pleasure to work with the Armoy Road Races over the years. Bill and his team organise a fantastic race schedule and the atmosphere in Armoy is unlike any other on the road racing calendar. I encourage anyone thinking of sponsoring the races to get on board with one of the most exciting road races in Ireland!

SGS International has supported the Armoy Road Races for the past two years as title sponsor and has been continually supportive of the races over a number of years.

Bill continued, “We are now entering into our ninth year, and the growth that has taken place over those years could not have happened without the valuable support and engagement from all our sponsors – we really are grateful to have the backing from many of our sponsors year on year.

“Without sponsors, there are no Armoy Road Races. Regarding a new 2017 title sponsor, I would urge that if anyone is interested in sponsoring, supporting or engaging with us, I’ll be only too glad to talk to them.

 “There may be a few other sponsorship changes this year so it would be good to hear from companies and organisations who would like to play a part in the continued growth of the Armoy Road Races and the Race of Legends.”

 “Armoy is continually ranked as a favourite race by some of the road racing elite, and I truly believe this is an excellent opportunity to be part of a fantastic race.”

 Bike Week 2017 is from 23^rd – 29^th July. Sponsorship enquiries should be made to Bill Kennedy on 07734 776 694 or Jackie Logan on 02890 918 675. For more information on the Armoy Road Races www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook and join the official fan page and you can also follow us on twitter at @ArmoyRoadRaces.

Get creative this April with a range of arts workshops from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

On Saturday 1^st April, Sheskburn House in Ballycastle is hosting a drop-in Easter-themed workshop for children from three-years-old. This is a special intergenerational opportunity for children to come along with their family or carers to make and decorate a special plaster Easter egg to display in the home. The workshop will be led by experienced tutor Jacqui Dougan, and runs from 10.30am – 12 noon. On the same day, in Ballymoney Town Hall, inspirational tutor Elaine Harkness leads a Mad Hatter workshop where children can create their very own over-the-top display in the style of Alice in Wonderland. Look out for further children’s workshops taking place in both venues in May.

There are plenty of creative opportunities for adults in Ballymoney Town Hall as well. On April 1st from 10 am – 4pm jeweller Diane Lyness will lead a silver jewellery workshop where each participant will learn techniques including soldering, shaping, piercing, texturing and polishing. Everyone will make a finished piece of jewellery to take home and no previous experience is necessary. All you need to bring is an apron and bundles of enthusiasm!

The popular flower-arranging workshops also continue with tutor Heather Colvin who will teach participants how to make an Easter nest arrangement on Saturday 8th April from 10.30am – 12.30pm. This will continue with workshops in May and June.

For further information on classes and workshops please contact Ballymoney Town Hall on 028 2766 0230 or Sheskburn House on 028 207 62225 or visit www.causewaycoastandglens.com