Get into the swing with Jazz 2013

‘You ain’t got a thing, if you ain’t got that swing’, well in this case Derry ~ Londonderry will have it and everything else in abundance when the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival rolls into town from the 2nd – 6th May 2013.

Headliners include Soul Rebels (New Orleans), who have been described by Rolling Stones Magazine as ‘Utterly uninhibited hip-hop hybrid, not to be missed’ and play The Nerve Centre on the opening night (Thursday 2nd May).

All male vocal group The Overtones will perform in the Millennium Forum on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th of May. The handsome quintet have come a long way since their painting and decorating days, and now their unique harmonisations of old and modern day hits have made them a household name.

The Playhouse Theatre will become the weekend home to some of the hottest names on the Irish jazz scene at the moment.  From Thursday 2nd – Monday 6th the intimate surroundings of this venue will be filled with the sounds of the Dark Energy Trio, David Lyttle & Jason Rebello, John Leighton, Louis Stewart with Gay McIntyre and the Paul McIntyre Trio with Club Cabaret rounding off their weekend.

Following their recent collaboration with Michael Bublé, globally renowned swing-pop trio, The Puppini Sisters, are coming the festival to headline the Grand Vintage Ball in The Venue on Saturday, 4th May. The Grand Vintage Ball will be the culmination of a day long programme of events as part of the Vintage Fair celebrating the cultural past and promises to bring a fantastic night of glamour, great music, dancing and fun right to the heart of the city centre.

On Saturday 4th May, the Nerve Centre will host UK Jazz Musician of the year – the Neil Cowley Trio. This is not your typical jazz trio and features a dazzling composer – pianist Neil Cowley – who creates engaging and dynamic music that embraces experiences in other genres – the highs of the dance music, the grooves of funk, and the elegiac nature of orchestral music

Sumptuous and classy music at its best will continue when Pink Martini take to the stage of the Millennium Forum as part of their global adventure on Sunday 5th May.

Other highlights include the Brass Impact Big Band, Dana Masters Band, Beverley Craven, The Stars from the Commitments, the Foyle Showband, Darryl Hendrix and The Love Hearts, Jerry Fish and his band, James Huish & Michael Buble Tribute and Club Cabaret.

With nearly 300 events, the wealth of international, national and local talent that will descend on the city’s venues over the May Bank Holiday is incredible. The Guinness Jazz Trail has become an essential part of the annual music festival, offering the opportunity for everyone to come out and enjoy some top class music without breaking the bank. With free events making up the bulk of this year’s trail, the only problem will be deciding where to go and who to see.

The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is arranged for you by Derry City Council in association with the UK City of Culture 2013 team, with funding from Diageo and support from NITB and Airporter.

So make a date with us and join us for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend. For a full programme of events and a chance to enter a VIP competition check out the website: www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com. Follow us on Derry Jazz Festival Facebook page for all the latest festival updates.  Telephone: (028) 7137 6545.

10 THINGS TO DO IN NORTHERN IRELAND NEXT WEEK

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (April 29 – May 5).

  • The Peace Bridge Race, River Foyle, Co. Londonderry, May 1 – 31.  The ‘Peace Bridge Race’ will see sailors compete for the John Hume and University of Ulster Trophy in a point-to-point race for sailing dinghies from Culmore to the Peace Bridge and back.
  • One City One Book, various locations, Belfast, May 1 – 31.  All the Beggars Riding is the new novel by Belfast novelist and playwright Lucy Caldwell.  Narrated by Lara, nearing forty and nursing her dying mother, the book is the focus of this festival which will have a wide programme of events including readings, movies and talks which aim to encourage as many people as possible to read and discuss the same novel.
  • Lough Lively Festival, Portaferry, Co. Down, May 1 – June 3.  Lough Lively celebrates everything that is unique to Strangford Lough, Lecale and the Ards Peninsula with over 150 attractions and activities waiting to be discovered.  Festival highlights including an antiques fair, music in the priory, an international bread festival and a maritime festival.
  • Festival of Fools, various venues, Belfast, May 2 – 6.  The streets of Belfast city centre and the Cathedral Quarter will come alive for five days to the sound of laughter and the sight of acrobatics, music and comedy as the Festival of Fools celebrates ten years of coordinated comedic chaos.
  • Jamboree in the Park, Ecclesville Park, Fintona, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, May 3 – 5.  This May bank holiday sees the return of the Jamboree in the Park with three nights of world class entertainment with spectacular live stage shows.
  • Cushendun Big Arts Weekend, various venues in Cushendun, Co. Antrim, May 3 – 6.  Enjoy four days of music, drama, poetry, art and more in one of the most beautiful villages in the Glens of Antrim.
  • Antiques Fair, Mount Stewart, Newtownards, Co. Down, May 4 – 6.  An antiques fair on the lawns of Mount Stewart where you will be able to browse antiques, arts and vintage pieces to pick up your own treasure from local traders or get some bargains in the popular second hand book fair.  TV Presenter and Antiques expert Paul Martin will be on hand to give advice and valuations on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Apple Blossom Fair, Loughgall Country Park, Co. Armagh, May 4.  There will be lots of fun for everyone at this fair including orchard tours, food and craft stalls, cookery demonstrations, a dog competition, live music, a BBQ, an apple tart competition and lots of family fun.
  • Rostrevor MTB Festival, Kilbroney Forest Park, Co. Down, May 4 – 6.  Celebrate a new trail centre in Rostrevor with three types of mountain biking at one venue.  Downhill, cross country and enduro competitions will be held with over 600 competitors expected.
  • Cot Trips, Crom, Newtownbutler, Co. Fermanagh, May 6.  Take a cruise around the Lough in the Crom’s 100 year old traditional craft boat.

The Straw is the Draw in Magherafelt!

Magherafelt District Council is once again planning an exciting event for the district The Strawman Festival will be launched on Saturday 1 June 2013.

The event will feature over 20 community groups and local charities taking part in a carnival from Magherafelt High School through the town centre and ending up with a Family Fun Day at Meadowbank Sports Arena.

The day will be rounded off by “The Hoedown” a Country Concert being hosted by the Chairperson of Magherafelt District Council Cllr Paul McLean. “The Hoedown” will feature the well-known local country artist Kenny Archer and other local talent. “The Hoedown” is being held to raise funds for 3 local charities: Autism NI (Mid Ulster Branch), Charis Integrated Cancer Care and The Beacon Centre. Cllr Paul McLean explains the idea behind “The Howdown”: “ As my year as Chairperson of Magherafelt District Council draws to a close I wanted to host an event to raise money for these three well deserving charities and also to give something back to the local community. The Events team in Council were planning to hold the Straw man Festival and I felt “The Hoedown” Country Concert fitted in with the theme.” Prior to the concert a Hogroast will be served and guests will be able to inspect the Straw Men on display.

Tickets for the Hoedown are available by contacting The Bridewell on 028 79631510 or email thebridewell@magherafelt.gov.uk or by contacting any of the 3 charities who will benefit, Autism NI (Mid Ulster Branch), Charis Integrated Cancer Care or The Beacon Centre.

The Strawman Carnival will take place from 12noon – 1pm and will feature community groups and charities who have all built Straw Men that represent their group / organisation. These groups have been working with local creative writer Maura Johnston who has been helping them to create a personality and story for the Straw Men. The idea for the Straw Man Festival we the brain child of local artist Helen Heron – Helen had seen a similar event in Canada and The Scarecrow Festival in Durrow, Co. Laois. Luckily Helen knew just the man to help – Tom O’Brien  who works with traditional crafts and was able to come along and run a series of workshops to build the straw men with the groups. You may have seen these popping up around the district already – there have been reported sightings in Kidz Lodge, Charis Charity Shop and Crawfords Supermarket Maghera.

After the Straw Man Carnival there will be fun for all the family to enjoy at Meadowbank Sports Arena. Shaun the Sheep Championsheeps Live will take place, the first time the roadshow has been to Northern Ireland. The day will include appearances by Shaun the Sheep, Sheep Hopper Pie-athalon, Naughty Pigs Sack Race, Free Range Egg & Spoon Race and get Get Fit with the Flock. There will also be traditional games, food from the finest local companies in Magherafelt, face painting, balloon modelling, Jumping Clay, The Creation Station and inflatables guarantees there will be something to suit everyone. For further information contact The Bridewell on 028 79631510 or email the bridewell@magherafelt.gov.uk

Throughout the summer months The Magherafelt Straw Men will be popping up in various locations and at different events throughout the district so keep an eye out for further details on the Council’s website www.magherafelt.gov.uk

Here are Jacqueline’s pick of family events taking place this weekend across NI.

Down

E2A Inclusive Theatre Group is presenting ANNIE the Musical. This unique and innovative group comprises of individuals of all ages with and without learning or physical disabilities.  The show includes talented performers with downs syndrome & ASD (Autism) to bring a remarkable theatre experience. Featuring well known songs including  Tomorrow, Never Fully Dressed without a Smile, Maybe and Little Girls. Opens Friday 26th April at 7.30 with other shows Saturday 27th April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm with the final show Sunday 28th April at 2.30pm. Tickets are only £5.00 each and the venue is the Parish Centre, Scarva Road, Banbridge. For all our County Down events click HERE

Tyrone

Following his laugh a minute, sold out performance at the Bardic last February, Ireland’s number one comedian Conal Gallen is coming back for one night only on Saturday 27th April for what promises to be one of the funniest shows you are ever likely to see.  Making a welcome return to one of his favourite venues, his show is littered with hilarious jokes, stories and songs. For all our County Tyrone listings click  HERE.

Fermanagh

The Waterways Ireland Fishing Classic, Enniskillen takes place this weekend and runs through until 3rd May.   The main event of the Fermanagh match fishing season, attracting up to 250 anglers from N Ireland, ROI, GB, Germany, Austria and other countries.  For all our County Fermangh listings click  HERE.

Derry

Upperlands Royal British Legion would like to invite you to an evening of Cultural Music on Friday 26th April 2013 from 8pm with acts including  Ballybriest Pipe Band – World Champions, Songs, Drums, Accordions, Dancer, School Choir and Storyteller. Come along for a great evening out. Everyone welcome. Admission £5 pay at door or tickets available from June’s Upperlands, Culnady Shop, Tamlaght Shop or Upperlands Royal British Legion. P7 and below entry FREE.  For all our County Derry/Londonderry listings click HERE.

Armagh

The Argory Armagh is the venue for  their famous Vintage Rally this Saturday. Hundreds of vintage vehicles will descend upon the Argory for what is a must-see event for all vehicle enthusiasts. Normal National Trust admission fees apply, members free.  For all our County Armagh listings click HERE.

Antrim

Frock Around the Clock, which since 2008 is Ireland’s longest-running vintage fair, makes its second visit to Lisburn in the historic Castle House from 11am-5pm on Saturday 27th April. Around 50 of Ireland’s best vintage sellers will be showcasing a rich array of time-travelled treasures from the early 1900s to the 1980s.  There will be something for everyone with a taste for vintage, at prices to suit all budgets, including clothing, fashion accessories, jewellery, homeware, furniture, dolls, bears and other collectables, and much, much more!  It won’t cost you a penny to browse for a vintage bargain with free entry for all.  For all County Antrim listings click HERE.

For more details on these and other events across Northern Ireland, news and competitions see www.whatsonni.com, follow us @whatsonni and like us at fb.com/www.whatsonni. Add your  events FREE OF CHARGE at www.whatsonni.

Shakespeare comes to The Walled Garden

“For never was a story of more woe / Than this of Juliet and her Romeo”


North Down Borough Council in association with Heart Break Productions Theatre Company are excited to announce Romeo & Juliet at The Walled Garden, taking place on July 24th & 25th 2013.

Shakespeare’s tragic tale of star-crossed lovers whose deaths ultimately reconcile their feuding families is one of his most popular plays and has become one of the world’s most enduring love stories with Romeo and Juliet becoming symbolic of young lovers and doomed love. With Verona as the backdrop, these young lovers in defiance of their families and in secret from their friends forge their love affair with the most tragic of endings.

Thrills and dynamism, masks, dance, blades, potions and poetry – Heartbreak’s inimitable storytelling style infuses a modern twist but maintains all the intensity of this legendary tale, creating a unique and compelling performance to move and engage audiences as they watch this riveting romance played out under sultry Italian skies.

Heartbreak Productions are an award-winning open air theatre company which have been creating theatre, film, education and community theatre since 1991. The company travels up and down the country performing their vibrant productions to sell-out crowds at castles, country houses, city parks and gardens and have won rave reviews for their work:

“A quality cast – Theatre at it’ best.” BBC Gloucester

“An excellent performance; clear and accessible, funny and touching. Brilliantly acted….” Playing Out.

Speaking about the performance, Wendy Smith, North Down Borough Council’s Events Officer said: “We are delighted to have Heartbreak Productions perform this famous love story in the beautiful surrounds of The Walled Garden and are very excited that the event coincides with the release of Carlo Carlei’s new Romeo and Juliet movie which is being released in cinemas on July 26th. The event is part of our Bangor 400 programme of events and what better way to mark the occasion than with a play from one of the most celebrated bards of the era.”

So absorb yourself in the performance of Romeo & Juliet at The Walled Garden ….gather your family and friends, grab a picnic and join Heartbreak Productions for a fantastic summer experience, magnificent open air theatre full of passion and thrills.

Admission by ticket only, £5 per person.  Performances start at 7.30pm on each evening.

Tickets available via North Down Museum (028 9127 1200) and Bangor Tourist Information Centre (028 9127 0069)

  • Please feel free to bring along a picnic to enjoy at these events however note that the consumption of alcohol is not permitted.
  • North Down Borough Council will be providing chairs for the events

Discover North Down Guided Walks and Tours

This summer why not get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors whilst learning something new about North Down during one of the Discover North Down guided walks and tours.

Whether you are a local or a visitor to the area there really is something for all, from kid’s nature trails to coastal walks and local history and heritage to horticulture and literature, you can be sure to have a great day out discovering all that North Down has to offer.

Our Historical walks and bus tour of North Down and Ards cover the unique history of the area from the foundation of Bangor Abbey in 558AD to the Viking raids of Bangor and the settlement of the Ulster-Scots on through to Bangor’s development as a seaside town. For the serious walker try the coastal path walk to Orlock.

Children will enjoy learning about the world around us during nature trails hunting for mini beasts, bird box making in Crawfordsburn Country Park and discovering the wildlife and birds that make Castle Park their home.

Gain an insight into Bangor Castle Walled Garden and its fascinating history on our Horticulture tours and enjoy the Aspects Literature walk at festival time which offers something for all interests.

A copy of the Discover North Down Guided Walks and Tours programme is now available for download at www.northdowntourism.com or from Bangor Tourist Information Centre and at various distribution points throughout the borough.

For further information or to book a ticket contact Bangor Tourist Information Centre 028 9127 0069, email tic@northdown.gov.uk or visit www.northdowntourism.com

Belfast’s Festival of Fools – 10 years of Coordinated Comedic Chaos!

If you’re wondering what to do over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, head to Belfast, where bellylaughs galore are promised at the Festival of Fools.

The annual street theatre festival, now in its 10th year, promises a weekend packed with stiltwalking mermaids, mysterious magicians, sword swallowing women, jugglers extraordinaire, and gardeners on trapezes!

From Thursday 2nd May to Monday 6th May, there will be non-stop breathtaking action and laughter across the streets of Belfast City Centre and Cathedral Quarter, with more than 130 performances free of charge.

The Opening Ceremony features the acclaimed physical comedy company Bash Street Theatre. Inspired by Charlie Chaplin’s movie ‘The Circus’, this show combines top-notch slapstick with live music, producing an ambience of nostalgia and laugh out loud comedy.

Some of the more surreal performances is a man with a saxophone for a head; Dr Palfi, the world’s only laughologist, who will be continuing his relentless campaign to stop Natural Causes – the biggest cause of death in the world today; Travelling Obo, a mythical creature whose journey to Belfast is documented in a specially commissioned short film available on the Festival’s facebook page; and the incomparable Chris Lynam whose comedy is so unpredictable even he doesn’t know what comes next!

Also appearing at his first Festival of Fools is Martin Bigpig aka stand-up comedian Martin Mor. Martin began his performance career more than 20 years ago with Belfast Circus School as a street performer, and is now one of the UK’s busiest and funniest comics on the stand-up circuit. Martin is returning to his roots by performing his street show and compering The Big Finish cabarets each evening.

Mooky Cornish, an award winning clown who steals hearts at the same time as drawing tears of laughter, makes a welcome return from last year.

People can also treat themselves to delicious deals in 17 restaurants, bars and cafes taking part in the Festival of Foods – a special voucher section in the festival brochure, also downloadable from the website. Getting to Belfast couldn’t be easier with great value bus and rail ticket options from Translink.

With non stop shows throughout the day in locations across Belfast City Centre and Cathedral Quarter, each evening finishes with The Big Finish – a variety style show featuring highlights from the day’s acts in the relaxed surroundings of Saint Anne’s Square. You’d be a fool to miss it!

For more information visit foolsfestival.com or join facebook.com/foolsfestival

Celebrities at Castlewellan Show Sponsors’ Evening

Almost 200 people packed into the beautiful surroundings of Castlewellan Castle for the Sponsors’ Evening for the 46th Castlewellan Agricultural Show which takes place on Saturday 13th July.

Guests were treated to a wonderful rendition of Feels of Gold by Orla and Niall McCrichard  before renowned goat breeder Geoffrey Ringland took to the podium to compere the evening.

Dromore’s Michelle McCauley, who is Castlewellan Show’s first female chairperson, welcomed the audience with special mention to Show President Walter Watson, patron Karen Patterson, Councillor Patrick Clarke and guest speaker for the evening broadcaster and business guru Nick Hewer.   She also acknowledged the new Show Secretary Jackie Fitzpatrick who has taken over the reins from Violet Bell and Theresa Kearney who has come on board as Show Treasurer.   In her speech she stressed the importance of the Show as a family day out attracting people from throughout Northern Ireland and beyond, showcasing the best of rural life.    This year the challenge is to increase the number of people who come along by providing a wider range of activities including a vintage tea tent and fashion event.  The Show will play host to the prestigious  All Ireland Limousin final and the Beef Shorthorn National Championship.  In addition an Irish Moiled cattle class has been introduced along with a new thoroughbred class, a display of Pathenaise cattle, a two day goat show and an increase in rare breeds by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.   She finished by commending the hard work of all who had helped to make the night happen, particularly Forthill Foods and Alex Woods for providing the supper and Joanne Orr Carriages for bringing along her elegant horse and carriage.

Theresa Kearney, treasurer, thanked the sponsors for their continued loyalty to the long running show.   She outlined new sponsorship packages including the gold level one for a unique single brand option to be associated with the Show.    However, she played tribute to the many smaller sponsors who support over 360 individual classes and committed to working with them to maximise opportunities to promote their businesses and brands, particularly through social media.  Stressing the importance of getting the Show onto a firm financial footing and protecting it for future generations, she encouraged sponsors to share their ideas on how to raise the profile before handing over to Show Secretary Jackie Fitzpatrick.

Jackie who has been in post for just six months thanked the committee for their support and hard work to date.   Focusing on the Show’s presence on social media through facebook and twitter, she announced that the Committee had agreed to investing in a brand new website which would be going live next month and provide additional opportunities for sponsors.   With this year’s Show falling on a bank holiday, optimism was expressed in relation to increasing footfall.  Finally she thanked those who supported the guest goodie bags, Farmweek, Abernethy Butter, Mash Direct, Farming Life and NFU Ballynahinch

It was with great pleasure that the compere introduced our new patron, broadcaster and journalist Karen Patterson, a familiar voice in early morning milking parlours as co-presenter of BBC’s Good Morning Ulster radio programme.  Karen recollected coming to the Show as a child with her father who exhibits Holstein cattle.  She praised the spirit of the Show and spoke of the plight of local farmers as a result of the recent snow storms.   She cited the Show as a celebration of country life and a time to recognise the eternal optimism of the farming community.

Councillor Patrick Clarke addressed the audience on behalf of Down District Council, highlighting the profile that the Show gives to the area and promoting Mournes as a must see destination.   He welcomed the opportunity the event gives local food and craft businesses to promote their produce  and was delighted that Castlewellan Show had been chosen to feature on Farm Fixer with Nick Hewer bringing the beautiful landscape to a television audience.

The final speaker of the evening was the much awaited Nick Hewer, presenter of Channel 4’s Countdown and Alan Sugar’s advisor on The Apprentice.  Last Summer he trekked from Istanbul to Almaty in Kazakhstan for Children in Need and as patron of the British charity Hope and Homes for Children, he has travelled to Romania and Rwanda.  He is in Northern Ireland for the programme Farm Fixer, giving advice to rural enterprises in these times of austerity.    He praised the work of the committee particularly Michelle, Jackie and Theresa or as termed them “The Three Graces”.  Speaking directly to sponsors he urged them to give to the Show not just in monetary terms but by way of promoting the event to their own clients and customers to provide additional reach.  He said he was looking forward to coming back in July to see the fruits of all of the hard work come together.

The event closed with a presentation of new cups.  Will and Allison from Abernethy Butter presented a cup for the best food exhibitor to Home Industries Chairperson Fiona Patterson.  Niall Brown and Aidan Brannigan presented a cup to Sheep Chairperson Roy Graham for Sheepbreeders.  Also in the sheep section, Victoria and Alan McFadden presented a cup for Hampshire Downs to Michelle McCauley.  Teresa Mallon has donated a new cup for the best pet competition in memory of her dog Roxy who was a previous winner.

Castlewellan Show takes place on Saturday 13th July with entries opening in mid May.  The Show will feature in the series Farm Fixer in late Autumn.

A real ‘peach’ of a show comes to the Millennium Forum next month!

Roald Dahl’s very first children’s book and one of his most popular stories, James and the Giant Peach, comes to the Millennium Forum from Tues 7th to Sat 11th May.


This classic book tells the story of James, a lonely young boy who lives with Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, the most revolting Aunts in England. They make him work and slave and never let him play with other children. Then one day he meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen and James embarks on the adventure of a lifetime with the most amazing group of characters you could ever meet!

The Birmingham Stage Company is famous for its acclaimed productions of Roald Dahl stories. In its twenty year history it has staged six Roald Dahl books and many other children’s stories including The Jungle Book and Horrible Histories. All have been loved and praised by audiences and critics alike.

James and the Giant Peach adapted by David Wood will be directed by Nikolai Foster, designed by Colin Richmond, with music by Grant Olding, lighting by James Whiteside, sound by Seb Frost and choreography by Drew McConie. Cast will include: Tom Gillies as James with Claire Greenway, Chris Lindon, Giovanna Ryan, Rhys Saunders, Sioned Saunders and Iwan Tudor.

James and the Giant Peach is wonderful entertainment for kids aged 4+ and all the family.

If you’re looking for family fun and wizzpopping wonders, then don’t miss this great Dahl show!

James and the Giant Peach performs at the Millennium Forum from Tues 7th to Sat 11th May. Tickets are now available from the Box Office. Telephone 71 264455 or visit www.millenniumforum.co.uk for bookings.

The Mousetrap – Diamond Anniversary Tour Millennium Forum – Mon 17th to Sat 22nd June

The world’s longest running stage production, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, is set to thrill local audiences when it performs at the Millennium Forum from Mon 17th to Sat 22nd June as part of its Diamond Anniversary Tour.

The first ever tour of the record-breaking production opened on 11 September 2012 in Canterbury and is currently on tour through 2013 due to unprecedented demand.

The cast for the second leg of the tour includes: Steven France (Eastenders, The Bill) as Christopher Wren, Karl Howman (Brush Strokes) as Mr Paravicini, Bruno Langley (Coronation Street, Doctor Who) as Giles Ralston, Graham Seed (Yes, Prime Minister UK Tour, BBC Radio 4’s The Archers) as Major Metcalf and Jemma Walker (Family Affairs, Eastenders) as Mollie Ralston. Elizabeth Power (Eastenders) as Mrs Boyle and Clare Wilkie (Eastenders) will play Miss Casewell.  Bob Saul will reprise his West End role as Sgt Trotter.

This classic murder mystery play is now in its 60th year in London’s West End. On 18 November 2012 to celebrate this milestone, a star-studded gala performance took place at St. Martin’s Theatre. Agatha Christie’s grandson, Mathew Prichard welcomed the audience for this diamond jubilee celebratory evening, which was also the 25,000th performance.  All of the proceeds from the night were donated to Mousetrap Theatre Projects, the leading theatre education charity seed-funded by the play.

The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst.

In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner.

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap performs at the Millennium Forum from Mon 17th to Sat 22nd June.  Tickets are now available from the Box Office.  Telephone 71 264455 or visit www.millenniumforum.co.uk for bookings. Opening Night Offer: All seats £19.50!