Theatre at The Mill in association with Mr Hullabaloo presents Disney’s Beauty and The Beast Jr.

The creative team responsible for the hugely successful pantomimes at The Courtyard Theatre bring Disney’s adaptation of a classic tale to life in an enchanting new production, directed and narrated by Mr Hullabaloo with a talented cast drawn from Theatre at The Mill’s Home Spun and Summer Youth Theatres.

Mr Hullabaloo and his team are established and popular children’s entertainers.  Hullabaloo’s collaborations with Newtownabbey Theatres include sell-out pantomimes at The Courtyard Theatre including Jack and The Beanstalk, Aladdin, Cinderella and Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, as well as his fairytale-inspired Tea Parties.  The principal roles will be performed by graduates of the highly successfully Theatre at the Mill Summer Youth Theatre and include Maria Sweeney acting the role of Belle, and Aaron Kavanagh, performing the role of Lumiere.  Members from Newtownabbey Home Spun Youth Theatre will also perform in this especially written junior version of the musical, and will feature in key supporting roles and as part of the main company.

Originally produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, Beauty and the Beast is a musical fantasy romance, based on the traditional French fairy tale of the same name by Jeanne-Marie Le Prince de Beaumont. One of the most popular and critically acclaimed musicals, Beauty and the Beast focuses on the relationship between the Beast, a prince who is magically transformed into a hideous monster as punishment for his selfishness, and Belle, a beautiful young woman who he imprisons in his castle.

The show that will be produced in Newtownabbey will feature all the popular songs including Academy Award winning title track Beauty and the Beast, Be Our Guest and Belle, as well as additional songs written by Howard Ashman and Sir Tim Rice.

Newtownabbey Home Spun Youth Theatre School nurtures future stars of stage and screen with weekly tuition throughout their course, leading to exams and professional qualifications for members with ambitions to develop a career in theatre, and makes available to the Youth Drama School the opportunity to participate in a professional performance. The Youth Drama School most recently participated in Theatre at The Mill’s Christmas comedy Eternally Scrooged.

Speaking on behalf of Theatre at The Mill, Arts Centre Manager Bernard Clarkson said:

“I am delighted to bring such a wonderful show to audiences in Theatre at The Mill. Beauty and the Beast is a family favourite and a visit at one of our matinee or evening performances would be a wonderful treat over half time break, with opportunities to explore the Museum, Newtownabbey Walk and enjoy the lovely setting here at Mossley Mill”

Beauty and The Beast runs at Theatre at the Mill from 18 to 23 February. Tickets, which cost £15 & £13, can be booked online at www.theatreatthemill.com or by phoning 028 90340217

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (February 10 – 16).

• The Stray Birds, Black Box, Belfast, February 12.  Moving On Music is delighted to present The Stray Birds as they take flight in Belfast for the very first time.  Formed in friendship honed on the road, The Stray Birds sound is drawn from the richness of American folk music traditions, spun with a stirring subtlety and grace.

• After Hours – Valentine’s Day at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, February 14.  Explore the amazing Titanic Belfast galleries, enjoy a theatrical performance which will bring the Titanic to life and relax in the atrium which will be transformed into a bar with live music.

• Al Grant – Jim Reeves 50^th Anniversary Concert, The Market Place Theatre, Co. Armagh, February 14.  Al Grant has established himself as one of the biggest attractions on the Irish and UK concert scene.  As 2014 is the 50th anniversary of the death of Jim Reeves, Al presents a unique insight into the life and times of Jim with a wonderful concert of classic hit songs.

• Valentine’s Can-oo-dle, Share Village, Co. Fermanagh, February 14.  Looking for something special to do this Valentine’s Day? Why not enjoy a romantic paddle around Enniskillen Island with your loved one.  You will also release a Chinese lantern while you sip complimentary bubbly under the full moon.  

• I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll, Waterside Theatre, Co. Londonderry, February 15.  The Soda Popz is a sensational seven piece band featuring some of Northern Ireland’s top musicians and vocalists.  This show will pay tribute to some of the best-loved hits from the fabulous 50s and 60s as well as some modern tunes with a rock ‘n’ roll twist.

• Magical Mystical Mill, Mossley Mill Civic Square, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, February 15.  Go on a fantastical adventure to a place inhabited by fairies and magical creatures.  Come see this other world come to life, as the magical characters tell their stories and reveal the enchanted world that surrounds the Mill. 

• Horse Ploughing and Country Skills, Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra, Co. Down, February 15.  Watch the horses at work as ploughmen from throughout the country compete in the annual Folk Museum Ploughing Match.  Try your hand at straw rope making, horse shoe throwing or watch the skilled craftsmen.

• American Wrestling Roadshow, Town Square, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, February 15.  The wrestling superstars will invade Omagh for a night that will leave your hair standing and heart pumping.  Cheer on your favourites but don’t be fooled there will be plenty of bad guys to keep you on the edge of your seat.

• Flash Harry: the music of Queen, The Burnavon, Cookstown, Co.Tyrone, February 15. When it comes to a night of rock defining entertainment, there is no better tribute than Flash Harry.  Party to classic tracks including Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want To Break Free, A Kind of Magic and Radio Ga Ga – a guaranteed good night out.

• Bird Box Day, Springhill, Magherafelt, Co. Londonderry February 16.  Help to rejuvenate Springhill’s bird boxes, learn how to build your own nest and make some bird feeders to take home.  Watch while our staff and volunteers demonstrate how to make a bird box from scratch.    

While romance is in the air, find someone to love this Valentine’s Day and enjoy time together at one of the National Trust’s special places.

Discover somewhere different, fall in love with beautiful views and take a walk through centuries of romantic tradition at some of the most beautiful historic houses, gardens, coast and countryside in Northern Ireland.

Here’s a selection of the conservation charity’s top tips for romance:

Spend the day together

There’s nothing more important on Valentine’s Day than spending time together. Take the exhilarating rope bridge challenge at Carrick-a-Rede and enjoy a truly unique cliff top experience. Explore the basalt stone columns at the Giant’s Causeway or wander hand in hand through the inspirational gardens at Mount Stewart.

Think about the backdrop

A memorable day out needs a memorable setting. The breathtaking ruins of Downhill Demesne with Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge are guaranteed to capture the imagination. Or for a peaceful setting head to Florence Court in Fermanagh with its glorious walks set against the dramatic backdrop of mountains and forests.

Make a stay of it

Why settle for an afternoon out? National Trust holiday cottages are in some of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland. Relax with a short break at Butler’s Apartment in Florence Court, enjoy coastal walks on the North Coast from Portbraddan Cottage or explore the cycle and walking trails at Castle Ward with a stay in Potter’s Cottage.

It doesn’t have to cost the earth

You don’t have to break the bank for a great day out. With an array of coast and countryside places across Northern Ireland, a stunning location may just be right on your doorstep. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Murlough National Nature Reserve, miles of golden sand and dramatic sand dunes at Portstewart Strand, and spectacular panoramic views over Belfast from Divis and the Black Mountain.

Find a quiet space

With extensive grounds on magnificent country estates, not to mention stunning walks on the coast and in the countryside, you can always find a secluded and romantic corner. Rowallane Garden is a world apart, with 52 acres of informal gardens to explore there’s plenty of space to find your moment. Or savour the peace at Castle Coole with a stroll around the lakeside walk and discover the wildlife that live in and around Lough Coole.

Fantastic flowers

From delicate white snowdrops to colourful winter gardens, you can see stunning displays of seasonal flowers at many National Trust places. The Argory and Springhill have some of the best displays of delicate snowdrops; much more memorable and impressive than any bouquet.

Give a thoughtful gift

Rather than something impersonal, pick up something special to remember your day. With a great selection of handmade delights and fine local produce, shops like the one at Mount Stewart or the Giant’s Causeway, are a great place to pick up a memento.

Further information on National Trust places to visit is available at  www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni.  For further information on Holiday Cottages contact 0844 800 2078 or visit www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk

Ulster Bank is holding an event in Cookstown on 11^th February to brief new and existing customers on accessing finance from £1billion available for businesses in 2014.

The ‘Ahead for Business’ event in the Glenavon House Hotel on Tuesday February 11 will focus on accessing finance, business planning and cash flow management. It will start at 7.30am with a sit down breakfast, and businesses can register their interest to attend at www.ulsterbank.com/aheadforbusiness.

Building on Ulster Bank’s existing supports for businesses of all sizes, the £1billion is available to both new and existing Ulster Bank customers and is open to all businesses who are seeking finance to support their growth plans in 2014.

There is evidence of business confidence growing, demand is increasing and more businesses are coming to branches to discuss their 2014 plans. Ulster Bank is delighted to be actively supporting businesses in all sectors and all sizes from micro enterprises to multinationals.

Ken Murnaghan, Head of Business Banking, Ulster Bank said: “In 2014 we are delighted to have £1billion available to help business as the real drivers of growth, employment and confidence in our economy. We know that many of our business customers view 2014 as a key year in terms of implementing growth plans, from introducing new products and services to expansion overseas and hiring additional employees. Access to funding is essential to ensuring they are able to fulfill these ambitions.”

Ken Murnaghan continued: “Our teams are looking forward to hosting ‘Ahead for Business’ events at five locations in Northern Ireland. We intend to use these to help local businesses develop their ideas, spark new concepts and highlight the suite of supports we provide to companies of all sizes.”

The event will take place at the Glenavon House Hotel on Tuesday February 11 and will start at 7.30am with a sit down breakfast. You can register your interest to attend at www.ulsterbank.com/aheadforbusiness

‘A Night For Swingin’ Lovers’ is the perfect Valentine’s present and night out, – our annual and hugely popular treat from The PM Big Band.

They bring a classic mix of vocals and instrumentals from The Great American Songbook, including selections from Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra and other legends from this ageless and ever-popular musical genre.

Adding a little spice, the band will flavour the evening with swing, R&B, and big band versions of some modern classics as well as pop standards from the past thirty or forty years, ensuring an evening of music to appeal to everyone.

‘A Night For Swingin’ Lovers’ will be staged at The Market Place Theatre in Armagh on Saturday 15^th February at 8pm. Tickets are priced £12 each, and can be booked by contacting the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com

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.

A signed limited edition Christmas card published privately for Seamus Heaney will be going under the hammer later this year to raise money for two local charities.

The auction, which will take place during a Masquerade May Ball on Saturday 3 May in the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown, is in aid of the Mid Ulster Dementia Support Group and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.

The ‘At the Hillhead’ Millennium Christmas Card was privately printed by Faber & Faber for Seamus Heaney. The card is signed and in mint condition. It is drawing interest from fans and collectors across the island of Ireland and the United States.

Organisers, Jacqueline McGonigle and Emma McCann, who both have personal connections to the charities, are hoping to raise £10,000 from the event that will include sale of the Heaney card, as well as the other items being auctioned and raffled throughout the evening.

Jacqueline McGonigle said, “We chose these charities as both of us have lost a parent to cancer, Emma’s mother in 2000 and my father in 2004. My mother was also diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2008 and the Mid Ulster Dementia Support Group was extremely supportive when I just needed someone to talk to and let me know that I wasn’t on my own, as well as offering practical advice about caring for someone with Dementia.

“We hope this rare card will help us reach our target along with our other auction and raffle prizes which include city breaks, hampers, beauty products, flying lessons, theatre tickets, spa passes, a donation from renowned artist Terry Bradley and much more.”

The event begins at 7pm and comperes are TV presenter Rita Fitzgerald and Willie John O’Donnell. Guests will also be entertained by James Huish and his Band along with some surprise performances during the course of the evening.

Emma McCann, who is the community fundraiser for Cancer Focus in Mid Ulster, said, “All money raised will stay in the mid Ulster area and help the families of people who are affected by these two illnesses. Both of us would like to say thank you for the kindness of our friends and families, and the financial support from five local businesses – Runwood Homes, Russell Shiels Tyres, Ground Espresso Bars, J&K Coaches and Ardboe Coldstore.”

Tickets are limited and can be purchased by contacting Jacqueline on 07833 488553 or Emma on 07731 375022.

The Mid Ulster Dementia Support Group has become a life-line to stressed carers, offering help and support, a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on as well as a source of fun and friendship.  As well as providing advice and information on options of care for people living with dementia, the group offers a befriending and outreach support service which includes a best-buddy scheme, where carers who can’t attend on a regular basis can keep in touch by phone or text with the occasional meeting. The group also offers £50 grants to carers, raised through donations and fundraising and is staffed by volunteers who have been, or are still in a caring role.

One of the services provided locally by Cancer Focus is the Family Support Service, which helps families cope with the disruption to ordinary family life and minimises the long term impact on children’s emotional well-being when a mum, dad or close family member has cancer. All Cancer Focus’s services are free. Visit www.cancerfocusni.org for more information.

Keep up to date with the event news on facebook HERE.

If you can’t make the event but would like to make a donation, you can do so via paypal to masquerademayball2014@gmail.com.

The Quirky Weddings Alternative Wedding Fair returns to Belfast Waterfront bigger and better than ever on Sunday 2 February (12pm – 5pm).

If you’re looking for a little inspiration to make your alternative wedding truly magical and unique then head to Belfast Waterfront to see an eclectic mix of unusual ideas which go far beyond anything you have ever imagined and will add something a little extra special to your day.

Jam-packed with over 120 handpicked exhibitors and an in-house cinema showing the best of bespoke cinematic wedding films, the Alternative Wedding Fair promises to be a truly unmissable event.

You need look no further to create your dream day; the Alternative Wedding Fair showcases the finest selection of unusual venues, creative photographers, stylish bridal and menswear, knock-out cakes and confectionary, hand-made jewellery and accessories and so much more.

No matter what type of wedding theme you are planning, the exhibitors will embrace your unique ideas and help bring your dream day to life. From rockabilly inspired cakes to 1950s hair, get married in a music hall or on a boat, arrive in the General Lee or decorate your dance floor with light up letters…just some of the ideas on offer at the Alternative Wedding Fair.

Cate Conway and Saima Akram are the driving force behind the ingenious idea of ‘Quirky Weddings’ which offers today’s couples a modern twist on traditional weddings.

Come along and discover something truly unique to make your wedding stand out from the rest and match your personality! You can’t afford to miss it.
Tickets are £6 and are available at the door. Children under 13 are free and first 500 visitors get in for half price!

For more information and to view the list of exhibitors visit www.quirkyweddings.co.uk for updates or follow Quirky Weddings on Facebook and Twitter.

Ends

For more information on the Alternative Wedding Fair contact Cate Conway on 07888762470 or email: tietheknot@quirkyweddings.co.uk

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (February 3 – 9).

• Sunday Snowdrops, Springhill, Co. Londonderry, February 2 & 9.  As winter melts away, take a self-guided walk through Springhill’s glorious display of snowdrops.

• Hansel and Gretel, Grand Opera House, Belfast, February 5 – 8.  Meet Hansel, Gretel and a bewitching ballerina who is not at all as she seems.  Deliciously surreal, mouth-wateringly inventive and with more than a sprinkle of festive magic – do you dare to go down to the woods this winter on an enchanted journey.

• Under the Boardwalk, Millennium Forum, Co. Londonderry, February 6.  Join Gillie Leroy Jones and his band in this two hour celebration of fifty years of hits from legendary group, The Drifters.  Featuring a string of greatest hits including Saturday Night At The Movies, Kissing In The Back Row and, of course, Under The Boardwalk. 

• Philadelphia, Here I Come, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, February 6 – March 8.  Philadelphia, Here I Come established Brian Friel as one of the greatest Irish playwrights of his generation. The play captures perfectly the Irish sense of belonging and also longing for someplace else, no less relevant today.    

• Guide in the Hide, Castle Espie Wildfowl & Wetlands Centre, Comber, Co. Down, first three Sundays in February and March.  Castle Espie Bird Watching Club will be in the Brent hide to share their expert bird knowledge with visitors and help them identify different wildfowl and waders that come to our shores.

• An Evening of Nostalgia with Johnny McEvoy, Market Place Theatre, Co. Armagh, February 7.  Johnny McEvoy has always been highly acclaimed for his excellent shows and his concert is eagerly awaited by his legion of fans.  This nostalgic evening will feature Johnny’s hit songs.

• Cupid’s Cabaret, The Burnavon, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, February 7 & 8.  The month of love is upon us. Why not spend an evening in the company of Carol Doey and friends, as they perform their burlesque routines and sketches all in the name of love for an unforgettable cabaret evening.

• Other Voices Music Trail, various venues in the City of Derry, February 7 – 9.  60 of the best bands and singer-songwriters from all over Ireland and the UK will perform in the city’s venues, bars, cafes and cultural venues throughout the weekend for free.

• Ballymena Festival of Music, Speech and Dance, The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, February 7 – March 15.  This festival provides an opportunity for performers at all stages of music, speech, drama and dance.  There will be two gala nights: the instrumental festival night and the vocal and prize winner gala.

• School of Highland Dance Competition, Church Hall, Maguiresbridge, Co. Fermanagh, February 8.  Don’t miss the annual highland dance competition which attracts dancers from all over Ireland and Scotland.