Skating spectacular takes audiences to four far-away lands in one action-packed ice adventure

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Friday 25 March – Sunday 27 March

Tickets on-sale THURSDAY 28 January at 9am !

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

BELFAST, Northern Ireland – Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they commemorate 25 years of Disney On Ice across Europe in an action-packed ice adventure that travels to four magical destinations!  Disney On Ice presents Silver Anniversary Celebration will take audiences on a fun-filled tour of the imagination.

Disney On Ice invites you to embark on the ultimate sightseeing holiday with all your favourite Disney characters. Join tour guides Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck as they visit the magical worlds of Disney’s The Lion King, The Little Mermaid and Peter Pan. You’ll also be whisked away to the wintery wonderland of the number one animated feature film of all-time, Disney’s Frozen.  Told through an international team of award-winning skaters, exciting choreography and a musical score filled with familiar Disney hits and rock-and-roll classics, the whole family is sure to experience a captivating journey to far-away lands without ever leaving their seats!

The arena will be filled with music and magic in every scene as you discover four unique landscapes filled with boisterous pirates, Caribbean beats and tender moments. Audiences will explore the African Pride Lands with Simba, Timon and Pumbaa; voyage deep under the sea to Ariel’s mystical underwater kingdom; and tour London with Peter Pan and Wendy before flying to Neverland to join Tinker Bell.  Plus, travel to Arendelle for an extraordinary adventure with royal sisters Anna and Elsa, rugged mountain man Kristoff and everyone’s favorite huggable snowman, Olaf.

“It’s an extraordinary show and a family vacation all rolled into one incredible night,” says Producer Kenneth Feld. “You really get a sense you are traveling right alongside Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends.”

Silver Anniversary Celebration was created by a team of industry experts known for their ability to convey the movements and designs needed to bring each Disney destination to life:

• Jerry Bilik (Director) – Creative team member for 30 Disney On Ice shows; arranged music for a number of television series, including Starsky and Hutch and Charlie’s Angels; music coordinator for The 31^st Annual Emmy^® Awards.

• Patty Vincent (Director – Frozen section) – Directed numerous Feld Entertainment ice and stage shows including Disney On Ice presents Frozen; began her career at Feld Entertainment as a skater and has advanced in the company to become the Character Development Director for all touring Disney On Ice productions. Additional credits include co-director of Playhouse Disney Live! and co-director of High School Musical Summer Celebration (stage show).

• Cindy Stuart (Choreographer) – Four-time Professional Skaters Association “Choreographer of the Year award” nominee and the 2014 Sonja Henie award nominee; collaborated with Olympic Gold Medalist Robin Cousins on multiple projects; choreographed for US Champion Gracie Gold,  US Bronze Medalist Mirai Nagasu, World and Olympic Champions Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao and Olympic Champions Jamie Salé and David Pelletier; choreographer for several Disney On Ice productions, including Disney On Ice presents Frozen.

• The Late Robert Smith (Production Designer) – Theater credits include the 2001 revival of Hair at the Wadsworth Theater; the world premiere of Bingo, an award-winning musical in Los Angeles and Stephen Sondheim’s Assassins and Dorian. Film credits include Session Man (Academy Award^® winner) and Contact (Academy Award^® nominee).

• Arthur Boccia (Costume Designer) – Worked 14 seasons as a top assistant to the late Don Foote, designer for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®; experience working on Broadway plays, film and television, including the Broadway revival of Pal Joey; designed costumes for 10 Disney On Ice productions.

• Patrick Dierson (Lighting Designer) – Lighting credits include the MTV Video Music Awards and the world tour of Shakira; received an Emmy^® Award nomination for his work on the post September 11th musical telethon America: A Tribute to Heroes.

Down

Waves Swim Programme begins in Ards Leisure Centre on Saturday 23rd January. Swimming lessons for beginners of all ages, to build confidence in the water and develop strokes and skills at every stage of the swimming programme. There are specific lessons for babies aged three months and over, pre-school children, juniors aged five years and over, and adults.

Armagh

St Mungo’s Luganulk is a hilarious GAA comedy about the worst Gaelic Football team in Ireland is set to throw-in at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 23^rd January. The production, written by and starring Conor Grimes and Alan McKee will appeal to Gaelic games aficionados and non-followers alike.  It is the ‘true-ish’ story of St Mungo’s GAC who, rooted to the bottom of Division Four and without a win in six and a half years, somehow transform their fortunes to reach an All-Ireland Final.

Fermanagh

TV’s Million Dollar Mind Reader, David Meade, returns to The Ardhowen stage Friday 22nd January with his amazing brand new show – FAKE BELIEVE! This most ambitious live show yet is as hilarious as it is jaw dropping. He reveals PIN numbers, detects lies, reveals secret thoughts, and influences those around him with seemingly inexplicable results!

Tyrone

Strabane Arts Academy proudly presents their first panto of 2016 at the Strule Arts Centre 22nd, 23rd, 28th 29th and 30th January.  A traditional Chinese story told within a pantomime format. Mulan’s father is ill, but he has been summoned by the Emperor to fight for his country.  In order that the family name is not dishonoured, Mulan disguises herself and goes off to war in her father’s place.  Her adventures are many before she is able to return home again to happy and well-deserved celebrations.

Derry/Londonderry

The magical award-winning Celtic Feast Nights are back with a bang in 2016 at An Grianan Hotel with the first date this Saturday 23^rd January.  Arrive to a glass of finest Mead from 7pm.  Meet the Warriors and pose for some Selfies!  Take your bench at 8pm for a hearty Irish 4 Course Meal with Free Wine.  Then, in between each Course enjoy live entertainment in the form of; World Class Irish Dancing, Battle re-enactments, Storytelling, Live Music and so much more!

Antrim

Hot on the heels of last year’s sell-out tour ‘Mouthful’, Northern Ireland’s finest comic, Jake O’Kane, is back at The Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey this Friday 22^nd January.  In his inimitable style, Jake takes no prisoners as he deals with the good, the bad and the ugly of 2015.  Jake weaves stories and news photos to give his take on the people, places and politics that made up the year.  Those of a sensitive disposition, and politicians of all shades, should be afraid – very afraid.  Show contains adult references. Recommended Age: 16yrs+.

Belfast

The W5 Winterland Express now departs on extra dates! Take a journey to the fairytale world of Winterland with a trip on the Winterland Express, the magical miniature train ride. Travel through the enchanted forest into the icy cavern to emerge in the courtyard of Winterland Castle!  The Winterland Express departs this Saturday  23rd January 2016, 12.15pm to 5.15pm.  The Winterland Express is a short train ride that is FREE with general admission to W5. For further information, opening hours and admission prices.

Add your events free at www.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.

Enjoy a free, family event – just perfect for the end of January.

On Sunday 31st January from 11.00am – 3.00pm take part in Craft-ology, a drop in event where children will get the opportunity to make some very different types of crafts, expand their imaginations and who perhaps make some very useful objects or decorations to adorn your home. We provide the materials, you just need to bring the family and have some fun!

Don’t miss this chance to release the ‘crafter’ in your child.

For information please contact: Navan Centre, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh. BT60 4LD. Tel 028 3752 9644 or www.navan.com

Check out the official trailer for Suicide Squad.

Vote for Causeway Coast and Glens in BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards

The Causeway Coast and Glens has been nominated as Holiday Destination of the Year in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards 2015/16.

One of the jewels in the crown of Northern Ireland tourism has been nominated for the award by expert travel writer Dixe Willis alongside four other regions across the United Kingdom to win the coveted accolade.

The four UK regions are: Suffolk, England; Snowdonia, Wales; Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland and Pembrokeshire, Wales.

Kerrie McGonigle, Destination Manager at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be nominated by the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards for Holiday Destination of the Year.

“The Causeway Coast and Glens is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic tourist destinations. What makes it unique is how the beauty of our natural landscape is used for an array of activities from the more sedate to the most adventurous, from world-class golf and miles of unspoilt beaches to surfing and coasteering, backed up with an unrivalled passion for award-winning local food & drink, served up with a warm welcome. And of course, we can also boast Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Giant’s Causeway.

“We would encourage everyone to get voting and let’s see Causeway Coast and Glens named as the Holiday Destination of the Year in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards 2015/16.”

The BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards is now its fifth year and celebrates the best of the UK’s countryside – from great heritage attractions, favourite holiday destinations, best nature reserves and finest rural pubs.

The 2015-16 Awards launch in the January 2016 issue of BBC Countryfile Magazine on sale 18 December 2015, and feature 11 categories.

Vote for the Causeway Coast and Glens online on the BBC Countryfile Magazine website: www.countryfile.com/awards2015-16

Voting closes on 31 January. The winners will be announced in an online ceremony in March and will appear in the May issue of the magazine (on sale 8 April).

Coleraine Goes Country is back! And Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is hosting an ‘Open Mic Night’ next month to attract local talent to the event.

The evening will be held in the Lodge Hotel, Coleraine on Thursday, 18^th February at 7.30pm. Entrants must play ‘Country’ and come from the Borough of Causeway Coast and Glens.

The winner will be given the opportunity to play at the main event in Coleraine Town Centre on Saturday, 26^th March as part of the Country Music Festival, as well as receiving a gift voucher from the Lodge hotel, there could be other opportunities too, as judges will be from the music industry, so entrants must be quick! All entries must be submitted to Council by Tuesday, 9^th February.

To be in with a chance of appearing and competing to play at the festival, details of the event and the application form to be shortlisted for the Open Mic Night, go online to the Coleraine Goes Country Facebook page.

Coleraine Goes Country festival takes place in Coleraine from 24^th to 26^th March and is designed to attract shoppers and visitors to the town, with music being played in shops, bars, coffee shops and in town centre over the three days.

Updates will be regularly added to Facebook on bands and individuals playing the festival this year but for now, pass onto anyone who plays country music in the Borough of the Causeway Coast and Glens.

The evening is free for everyone to come along and listen to the Borough’s local talent!

ANNIE, the world’s favourite family musical, comes to the Millennium Forum for one week only from Tuesday 23^rd until Saturday 27^th February.

Tickets are priced from £19.50 and are now available from the Box Office.  Telephone 71 264455 or visit www.millenniumforum.co.uk for bookings.

Starring Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan, this much loved show returns to the city to delight its legions of local fans.

Lesley Joseph is best known for playing ‘Dorien Green’ in the hugely successful sitcom “Birds of a Feather” alongside Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson. They recorded over 100 episodes over a period of nine years. Lesley and her co-stars returned to our screens in “Birds of a Feather in 2013 with a second series airing earlier this year. Lesley’s theatre credits include ‘Miss Hannigan’ in “Annie” at the West End’s Victoria Palace and also on national tour. Her other touring credits include “Calendar Girls” and “Hot Flush!”.

Lesley is joined by Alex Bourne as ‘Oliver Warbucks’, Holly Dale Spencer as ‘Grace Farrell’, Jonny Fines as ‘Rooster’ and Djalenga Scott as ‘Lily’. The company also includes James Alan- Evans. Lewis Bradley, Nic Gibney, Sinead Kenny, Michael Lin, Alice Liveing,  Megan Louch, Callum McArdle, Benjamin Mundy, Steven Oliver, Heather Scott-Martin, Anne Smith, Kate Somerset How.

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search…

With its award-winning book and score, this stunning new production includes the unforgettable songs Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow. Don’t miss Annie – you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

Annie The Musical returns to the Millennium Forum from Tuesday 23^rd until Saturday 27^th February.  Tickets are now available from the Box Office and are priced from £19.50.   Telephone 71 264455 or visit www.millenniumforum.co.uk for bookings.

Weighing In is the fast paced new comedy by Ger Gallagher starring Rose Henderson (Fair City) and Isobel Mahon (Glenroe) at The Courtyard Theatre

Thursday 21 January. Anyone who has ever been to a Slimming Class will feel an instant sense of dread with the first mention of points, calorie calculators and of course the scales!

This bolshie new comedy is about life, love and dieting and how we all need to adjust the scales to find the right balance.  Highly driven Pam and motherly Breda strike up an unlikely relationship at their weekly Easi-Slim classes and learn that things aren’t always what they appear to be and sometimes you already have the life you have been wishing for.

So don’t be blue this January treat yourself to a great night out.  Tickets from £8, available from Box Office 028 9034 0202 or www.thecourtyardtheatre.com.

The Market Place Theatre Cajun | Bluegrass Club returns featuring the best of bluegrass and Cajun music and food. ‘Wookalily’ will provide the music for the evening – a female led band hailing from all over the North who have gigged extensively throughout Ireland providing a lively unique sound, crafting a flourishing stage presence to be reckoned with and creating a unique and quirky sound that’s all heart.

Their style, sometimes referred to as chillbilly roots, has an old-timey feel with a young-timey appeal. The Cajun Bluegrass Club will take place on Saturday 30^th January at 8pm. Tickets are priced £12 or £22 [with supper].

‘A Viennese Strauss Gala’ is now in its 15th year, and back in the UK by popular demand, with a sparkling new anniversary production. Recreating the romance of the Viennese Festive season, reminding you of a bygone age of glamorous soirees and Strauss waltzes, the show features highlights from some of the great Operettas of the Strauss family, Kalman and Lehar; including ‘Die Fledermaus’, ‘The Merry Widow’ and many more. The European Orchestral Ensemble will accompany four Soloists from major Opera companies; including Opera North, English National Opera and D’Oyly Carte. This wonderful production is cleverly staged and choreographed, and authentically costumed, and will appeal to the romantic as much as the music aficionado. This performance will take place on Friday 5^th February at 8pm. Tickets are priced £17.50 each.

Scotland’s Ross Ainslie [Radio 2 ‘Musician Of The Year’ Award nominee] and Tyrone-born Jarlath Henderson [BBC ‘Young Musician Of The Year’] first met back in 2003 at the William Kennedy Piping Festival in Armagh. The pair exploded onto the scene with 2009’s stunning debut album, ‘Partners In Crime’. Individually they’re two of the best players around, but together they create a sound built on an astonishing intuition. Their sound bursts with emotion and energy – a fusion of pipes and flutes that pushes the boundaries of what the instruments can achieve. Backed by the hugely talented Ali Hutton [guitar]. The trio will perform at The Market Place on Friday 5^th February at 8pm. Tickets are priced £13 or £11 (concession).

Details of all events can be found online at www.marketplacearmagh.com, and tickets can be booked by contacting the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821.

And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (January 18 -24).

• Burns’ Night with the Ulster Orchestra and Friends, Ulster Hall, Belfast, January 23. Join the Ulster Orchestra and friends for a night of Ceilidh toe-tapping traditional tunes with the romance of Robert Burns’ poetry and song set to music and a visual spectacle that celebrates Burns Night perfectly! This annual concert, celebrating the rich cultural links between Scotland and Northern Ireland, is the hottest ticket in town! Show begins 7.45pm.

• Big Garden Birdwatch, Belfast’s Window on Wildlife, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, January 23. Join the team at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife (WOW) for this free drop-in event and learn basic birdwatching skills. You’ll also have the chance to make delicious treats to attract our feathered friends to your patch. Between 10am and 3pm.

• The Mulligan Brothers, F.E. McWilliam Gallery, Banbridge, Co. Down, January 22. Storytelling takes centre stage as one of Alabama’s most promising up-and-coming bands, The Mulligan Brothers blend bittersweet lyrics with comforting Americana/folk melodies. Playing in the candle lit Bronte Church this is an event for all genuine music lovers. Show begins at 9pm.

• Legally Blonde The Musical, Riverside Theatre, Ulster University, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, January 21-February 6. Award-winning Ballywillan Drama Group brings the wonderful new musical Legally Blonde to the Riverside for sixteen performances. This is musical theatre at its best with great songs and witty lines. Smart, sassy and spectacular. Nightly shows at 8pm and with matinee performances at 2.30pm on the three Saturdays during the run.

• Simple Good Food Cookery Demo, Orchard Acre Farm, Irvinestown, Co. Fermanagh, January 23. Part of a series of spring detoxing events, this cookery demo and tutorial will focus on nourishing your body using simple good food. Covered topics will include main meals, new ideas and methods to create nourishing meals at home as well as guidance on how to select the best dishes off menus when dining out.

• Johnny Brady at SHARE, Smiths Strand, Shanaghy, Co. Fermanagh, January 23. Dust off your jiving shoes for a night of dancing and great live music with country star Johnny Brady and his energetic live band. Doors open at 8.30pm.

• Cabaret Supper Club, Marketplace Theatre, Armagh, Co. Armagh, January 22. Feel like a star for the night at Armagh’s first cabaret supper club! Experience an evening like no other as you enjoy a sumptuous meal and a glass of bubbly while watching some of the best live music and magicians, in the intimate setting of The Market Place Studio Theatre.

• Of Mice and Men, Black Box, Belfast, January 19. Steinbeck’s classic story of drifters George and his simple-minded friend Lennie is one of outsiders striving to find their place in an unforgiving world. The moving and timeless play is scored with the gospel singer Mahalia Jackson’s beautiful voice. Show begins at 1pm.

• Mulan Pantomime, Alley Theatre, Strabane, Co. Tyrone, January 22-30. Discover the well-known traditional Chinese story of Mulan through a new light as the Strabane Arts Academy proudly present their first pantomime of 2016. Starts at 7.30pm.

• Rock ‘n’ Roll Years & Dance Hall Days, Grand Opera House, Belfast, January 21. Rock ‘n’ Roll Years and Dance Hall Days will see audiences relive all the memories of a decade that saw the birth of pop, from the ballads of Ruby Murray, Perry Como and Dean Martin to the early rock ‘n’ roll hits of Buddy Holly, Brenda Lee and Bill Hailey. Show begins 8pm.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.