Down

Charity Walk & Run in aid of the USPCA Animal Hospital Newry, Saturday 4th May. Registration from 11.00am with the walk starting at 11.30am. Walk, jog or run for animals on the 4th of May. The walk will start from the Animal Hospital and continue down the Newry Tow Path, before returning back to the centre with refreshments provided at the finish line.

Armagh

Immerse yourself in life as an ancient Celt as Navan Fort in Armagh prepares for the Beltaine Festival of Fire; a time of purification and transition. Saturday 4th – Monday 6th May, 11.00am to 4.00pm daily. Normal admission charges apply.

Fermanagh

Enjoy the first May Bank Holiday Weekend, at Castle Archdale with live entertainment by Strule River String Band on Saturday 2.00pm to 4.00pm, CC Cooper Country Saturday Evening and Praise in the Park Sunday from 3.00pm.

Tyrone

Buckle up as Jamboree in the Park is back!  Ireland’s biggest indoor country music festival returns to the Ecclesville Centre, Fintona on Saturday 4th May for an unmissable night of Country Music with Derek Ryan, Cliona Hagan and All Folk’d Up.  Doors open from 7.00pm.  

Derry

The sensational new Stage Musical “My Sweetheart and Me” is a rip-roaring, funny romantic comedy set during the Summer of Love 1967, in and around a popular cornerstone of the community Public house (The Suntree bar) in the fictional sleepy town of Cheerysville, Ireland.   Riverside Theatre Coleraine, Saturday 4^th May.

Antrim

Cushendun’s Big Arts Weekend is a four day festival, from 3^rd to 6^th May, of music, drama, poetry, art, walks, workshops and family fun in one of the most beautiful villages in Glens of Antrim. The programme has something for everyone and many of the events are free. 

Belfast

Join Poetry NI and The Crescent as they present Purely Poetry Open Mic Night on Friday 3^rd May.  Welcoming readers of all styles and experiences, from first timers to old pros, Purely Poetry Open Mic Night fosters an open, laid back and encouraging atmosphere for people to read their work, and to listen in comfort. Quite simply, we want your poems, and they want you to enjoy the experience of reading them!

 For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Isosceles Theatre Company returns to Bangor’s Studio 1A this Thursday after a sell-out performance of Murder, Just What The Doctor Ordered in 2018 for this fast-paced adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel that has enthralled audiences throughout Britain and Ireland, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

Armagh

Egg and Spoon is an interactive romp through the seasons where you come in and out of a magic circle and get to open all the gifts of nature. Percy and April get you settled on comfortable cushions and introduce you to Birdy, still hiding in his glowing egg. Market Place Theatre, Saturday 27th April.

Fermanagh

Fundraising choir Caritas will perform at the Ardhowen Theatre this Friday 26th April, singing a variety of works from classical to pop, Abba, Disney, Musicals…music for every taste! Caritas will be joined on the night by Claire McGrath (traditional Irish tutor) and her Grúpa Ceoil from St Aidan’s Derrylin.

Tyrone

Learn with Revolve Comics how to tell your story through comics this Saturday at Ranfurly House Dungannon. Hints and tips that all the top professionals use. How to draw, how to layout a story, and bring it to life with colour! If you are interested in comics or storytelling then this is right up your street for a taster of how to make awesome comics.

Derry

Run DC returns on Sunday 28th April at The Workspace Recreation Centre in Draperstown with a 10k run, a 5k run and a 5k walk.  Every runner will receive a medal and every runner registered before 24th March will also get a race vest.  Every walker gets a medal. Every pre-registered runner will get a goody bag thanks to O’Kanes Chemist and Revive Active. Limited entries are available on the day so arrive early!

Antrim

Join RSPB NI warden and islander Liam McFaul to explore the Roonivoolin reserve on the southern arm of Rathlin Island this Saturday. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery as far as the eye can see, including views of Fair Head and the Mull of Kintyre, and with a bit of luck you’ll also spot Irish hares.

Belfast

DU Dance (NI) are once again delighted to present Unanimous – the eighth platform event showcasing great new youth dance theatre at The MAC, Belfast Sunday 28 April 2019.  This event brings together some of the best youth dance groups from across the island of Ireland with other inspiring companies in a non-competitive arena.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Bangor’s BIG Easter weekend will feature some of your favourite storybook characters, Mr McGregor’s Garden, children’s workshops, Hotch Potch Tiny Tours, the Easter Bunny, storytelling, Puppet Shows and more!  The highlight of the weekend will be Milkshake Live! Monkey’s Milkshake Musical on Saturday 20th April at the McKee Clock Arena.

Armagh

Join the living history team at the Navan Centre’s live action interpretation of the Three Billy Goats Gruff 20th to 23rd April  – the perfect Easter experience for all the family!  Trip-trap went the Three Billy Goats Gruff on their adventure to find some lovely green grass! 

Fermanagh

On the 20th and 21st April Share Discovery Village invites you to join them on their Happy Easter Family Cruise.  Come on board the Inishcruiser for a 1.5 hour cruise on Upper Lough Erne, while cruising enjoy light refreshments and Easter themed entertainment.  A perfect Easter day out.

Tyrone

On the 20th April, drop in to Ranfurly House, Market Square in Dungannon and create a cute little bunny this Easter. Using lots of collage materials and your imagination, you will create a colourful bunny to take home. 

Derry

Join resident sand sculptor Tony on Portstewart Strand Saturday 20th April, as he demonstrates the art of sand sculpting. Have a go at creating your own! The theme is ‘creatures of the sea’. Usual National Trust site admission charges apply.

Antrim

Hop aboard the Easter Eggspress for an egg-citing adventure from Belfast to Whitehead this Easter, 20th to 22nd April. You’ll be greeted by the bouncing Easter Bunny and made comfortable on board the steam train. With fun for all the family and, of course, lots of yummy Easter eggs for those egg-cellently behaved little ones, it’s a trip that you won’t want to miss out on!

Belfast

Hop on over to Belfast Zoo this Easter for a ‘zooper’ day out from 20th to 28th April.  Visit all your favourite animals for their Easter treats at feeding times and call by the keeper talks to find out more about the species that the zoo cares for.  Don’t forget to search high and low for the Easter egg trail to be in with the chance of winning a special prize, and pose with our mascot characters for a seasonal selfie.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Los Dramáticos (Chile, Spain, Ireland) invite you to accompany them on a musical journey through the cultures of the Latin world at the Chamber, Bangor Castle, Friday 12^th April.  Enjoy the stunning arrangements of well-known songs played with soul and bravura from around Latin America and Spain on 10-string charango (Victor Henríquez), flamenco guitar (Paddy Anderson) and percussion (Steve Davis and Marty McCloskey) are interspersed with surprising and humorous stories from their personal encounters with Latin music and culture.

Armagh

Build your Easter Bunny with Bear Essentials at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday. Join the Bear Essentials team for this fun interactive workshop where you will choose, stuff and sew your very own top quality Easter bunny and tailor him/her the way you like it. Your new furry companion will receive their very own birth certificate completed by you so you’ll have a chance to name your new Easter bunny ready for taking home just in time for the Easter Holidays. Before you leave you and your new bunny will take part in a very special Easter egg hunt for some yummy goodies!

Fermanagh

Join Bernie Jones on her crazy ‘Dirty Dancing’ themed hen party and get ready to meet her madcap family and friends while you have ‘The Time Of Your Life’. Nobody Puts Bernie in the Corner comes to the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday 13^th April. Suitable for 16+.

Tyrone

Don’t miss the Ultimate Ladies Night this Saturday 13^th April at the Kinturk Cultural Centre, Moortown.  There will  live demonstrations by Make up by Julie, Mairead Quinn, Aesthetic 53 and The Klean Kitchen. Spot prizes on the night, drinks reception and a fork supper.  Tickets are £25 available from Boutique 68, online at boutique-68.myshopify.com/ and local shops. 

Derry

Enjoy unique adventure activities at budget prices at the Jungle NI, Moneymore this Sunday!  Similar to a fun-fair, The Jungle’s Family Fun Day  is an open-park day and offers a range of outdoor activities by token. Simply buy as many tokens you wish, exchange your tokens for the activity, or activities, of your preference and enjoy a fun family experience day unlike any other!  Suitable for all ages and abilities – book online today!

Antrim

Explore the Easter trail at Monkstown Wood Newtownabbey, enjoy a chocolate treat and make a crafty animal mask this Saturday 13 April from 11.00am – 3.00pm. £6 per child, £2 per accompanying adult.  Booking is essential – online booking only. Book your place at woodlandtrusttickets.cloudvenue.co.uk/eastermonk. Parking is limited, dogs are allowed on lead. Please note paths are unsurfaced and can become muddy or slippery during wet weather.

Belfast

Join Amanda St John and some of Northern Irelands finest songwriters for a night of music, banter and friendship in aid of The Macmillan Cancer Unit in Antrim hospital this Saturday at the Crescent Arts Centre. Amanda and her band will be joined on the night by some of her great friends; Anthony Toner, Gareth Dunlop, Brigid O’Neill, Matt McGinn and Ciara O’Neill for a night of music and connection with solo sets, collaborations and unique performances of some of your favourite soul songs.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Down

The Ards International Guitar Festival is back with a bang from 3rd to 7th April, with a fresh new programme of guitar inspired gigs, free fringe events, guitar clinics with industry professionals and an exhibition In Your Town featuring Rory Gallagher memorabilia.  Expect a jam-packed line-up of, blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical and contemporary music for guitar aficionados across the borough.

Armagh

Frock Around The Clock Fairs announce a beautiful new venue for 2019 – Brownlow House, a stunning country manor overlooking the scenic surroundings of Lurgan Park. The first event at Brownlow House will be The Spring Fling Fair on Saturday 6th April. This event will feature 30 fantastic stalls of original handmade, vintage and holistic loveliness including fashion, home, jewellery, sweet treats & artisan food, art, crafts and gifts.

Fermanagh

The Suffragettes, Scholars, Sisters and Spies Exhibition comes to an end on the 6th April at Enniskillen Castle. Discover what life was like for women at this pivotal time in national and international “herstory:” from the war to winning the vote. The unique selection of artefacts on display reminds us of the valuable contributions made by women to society, the home and working life. 

Tyrone

Movie Magic at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown  this Saturday 6th April is a family show from the talented staff and pupils of Mid Ulster School of Music. The show celebrates popular movies such as ‘the greatest showman’ ‘mamma mia’ And ‘the wizard of oz, plus many more surprises.  Tickets available directly from the Box Office at the Burnavon Theatre.

Derry

Heaney HomePlace Bellaghy is the venue for The World’s Wife with Bronagh Gallagher, Susan Lynch and special guests this Saturday 6th April. In conjunction with the visit by Carol Ann Duffy, HomePlace are delighted to present this staged reading of arguably her most famous collection of poetry.  Behind every famous man is a great woman, and from the quick-tongued Mrs Darwin to the lascivious Frau Freud, from the adoring Queen Kong to the long-suffering wife of the Devil himself, each one steps from her counterpart’s shadow to tell her side of the story in this irresistible collection. 

Antrim

Larne Carnegie Free Library was officially opened on 2nd April 1906 by Colonel J M McCalmont, M.P. Join in the fun at the Family Fun Day to celebrate on Saturday 6th April with Edwardian themed activities including a quilting demonstration by Loose Thread Quilters as part of their exhibition ‘Around the World in 40 Quilts’, a ‘Make and Take’ lavender sachet craft session, walkabout entertainers and a magician (12.00pm-2.00pm), hula hooping, teddy bear clinic and doll hospital, arts and crafts, dress up, games, activity sheets and more.  This a free drop in event with activities for the whole family!

Belfast

Belvoir Seniors will wow you with their interpretation of the smash hit Broadway and West End Musical Legally Blonde. Based on the best loved movie, it follows beautiful and popular sorority sister Elle Woods who loves to be pampered and is passionate about pink. When she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner Huntington III for a more serious girlfriend she puts down the credit cards and picks up the books. Packing up her trusty pooch, Bruiser, she bags herself a place at the prestigious Harvard Law School to try and win him back. With the support of her new friends she learns that you can be both smart and fashionable.  2nd to 6th April daily.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

This Sunday 31^st March at Castle Ward Estate, step into Winterfell and take aim where young Bran was taught archery by Jon Snow. Have a go at archery in the very place where the BAFTA award winning TV show was filmed in the  courtyard, aka ‘Winterfell’.  Stand in the recreated Game of Thrones archery film set tipi, dress in a Game Of Thrones-like costume to look the part and get ready to take aim.  Suitable for 8  years+ for an open session (50 mins) and 6 years+ for a private session (1 hour).  Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult.  Booking is essential. 

Armagh

Wee Wonders Sessions this Saturday 30^th March is the perfect workshop to spend some quality time with your little ones to celebrate Mother’s Day! Join puppets Wendy & Will Wonder for a session jam packed with singing, signing, games, stories, activities as well as craft for you to take home.   Parents will enjoy participating with, and observing your wee wonder as they enter our exciting world of imaginative play and discovery. Your children will love spending creative time with you as they explore a range of fun hands on activities.

Fermanagh

This Mother’s Day treat your mum to a cruise on stunning Upper Lough Erne on SHARE’S Inishcruiser, whilst feasting on a delicious traditional Afternoon Tea. 2.30pm to 4.30pm on Sunday 31^st March.

Tyrone

The Ward Sisters are a phenomenal three part harmony vocal group with an amazing country tone that is set to take the Country Music industry by storm!  Since entering the music scene the girls have stunned crowds all over Ireland with their incredible live performances and ability to give each song a unique and individual tone and twist.  The Ward Sisters have performed across the water many times and are now working hard on their second album which will be a compilation of original material. See them perform live at The Square Box, Ranfurly House Dungannon, Saturday 30^th March.

Derry

Enjoy unique adventure activities at budget prices this Mother’s Day at the Jungle NI. Similar to a fun-fair, The Jungle’s Family Fun Day  is an open-park day and offers a range of outdoor activities by token. Simply buy as many tokens you wish, exchange your tokens for the activity, or activities, of your preference and enjoy a fun family experience day unlike any other!  Suitable for all ages and abilities – book online today!

Antrim

Mum & Me Afternoon Tea, Marine Hotel Ballycastle, Saturday 30th March 12.00pm to 4.00pm.  Celebrate your beautiful Mums/ Grannies/ Aunties/ Godmothers with a delicious Afternoon Tea by the sea. Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to mark an important occasion with your nearest and dearest.  Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, home baked scones with jam and cream and a delicious range of mini sweet treats and desserts, washed down with your choice of Twinning’s Tea. For a little something extra special add a glass of Prosecco.

Belfast

This Saturday evening, Cappella Caeciliana is delighted to return to the historic St Malachy’s Church in Belfast for a spring musical evening, featuring the premiere of More than Gold by Belfast composer Anselm McDonnell.  Tickets cost £12, with students and under 25s being admitted free of charge (no ticket required).  Proceeds are in aid of the St Malachy’s Church Restoration Fund.Tickets can be purchased online, and from Matchetts 50 Wellington Place, Belfast.  

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

You are invited to attend the USPCA Spring Tea party at their Animal Hospital in Newry on Saturday the 23rd of March from 11.00 am. There’s  lots happening with tea, cakes, a flower sale, and personalised paw prints of your dog will be available to purchase on the day. Everyone is welcome, including your four legged friends.  Proceeds will go to support USPCA. 

Armagh

Visit The Argory Book Fair and reap the health benefits of this multi-beneficial, but often forgotten activity.  On Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th March, The Argory provides you with the ideal setting to exercise both body and mind.  A dedicated band of volunteers run this event and take great pride in providing visitors with a vast array of literary gems, there’s a book for everyone, the choice is yours! Normal admission charges/NT members and under 5’s free.

Fermanagh

Music in Fermanagh is proud to present the Chamber Philharmonic Europe, based in Cologne, which will be joined by world-famous Russian trumpeter Cyrill Gussaroff in Ponchielli’s Concerto in F Major. They will also play music by Corelli, Suk, Bach, Rachmaninoff and Holst. Ardhowen Theatre, 24^th March, performance begins at 8.00pm.

Tyrone

The Omagh and Sperrins Walking Festival takes place this weekend 23rd and 24th March, offering challenging, moderate and family walks on each day.  Day 1 – Registration at An Creagan, Saturday 23 March 2019. Day 2- Registration in Drumquin Parish Hall, Sunday 24 March 2019. Participants should wear appropriate sturdy footwear on Easy Walks and Hiking Boots are essential on Moderate to Challenging walks. Please be prepared for all weathers. Transport will be provided to start of each of walk.  

Derry

One of Ireland’s most respected and successful playwrights, Frank McGuinness has towered over Irish theatre for the last 30 years.  His latest novel, The Woodcutter and his Family, takes another famous writer, James Joyce, and imagines his last days as told from the point of view of his family. Frank will be in conversation with writer Nuala O’Connor at the Seamus Heaney Homeplace this Saturday 23^rd March, to discuss his wide-ranging career and the lure of creating a new fiction out of a real life.

Antrim

Uplift Promotions and Performing Arts Company proudly presents Movie Musicals at the Theatre at The Mill on Saturday 23^rd March.  This unique, fast paced, high-energy, passionate production brings to life some of the best movies, and movie musicals to the stage, featuring iconic movie moments through song and dance.  From the company that brought you, Variety, Into the Woods Jr, Broadway Blitz and most recently the sold out smash hit Hairspray Jr.

Belfast

Stepping Out, by Belvoir Players on 22^nd and 23^rd March is a rollicking comedy about the attempts of some working class amateurs to overcome their inhibitions and left feet in a low-rent dance studio in North London. Mavis, a former professional chorus girl tries her hardest to teach the bumbling amateurs some terpsichorean skills for an upcoming recital. But before the dancing begins Mavis must mediate the minor dramas that erupt among this motley but loveable crew on their way to triumph at their recital. Liza Minnelli starred as Mavis in the popular film. Curtain up at 8.00pm.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Have a day filled with fun at Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry this St. Patrick’s Day.   Join the craic and banter  with underwater and reptilian friends.  Enjoy snake demonstrations led by a team of Aquarists, daily animal demonstrations, themed arts and crafts and a mer-mazing face painter who will be joining the fun this St. Patrick’s Day.  Normal admission charges apply – pre-book online for discount. Last admission 4.00pm

Armagh

Celtic Footsteps, St Patrick’s Saints of Oriel, is a unique guided tour celebrating the connections between St. Patrick and two of Ireland’s first female Irish Saints, Bridget and Moninne of Oriel.  Ring of Gullion Ambassadors Ann Ward and Venora Hovelt will lead this special tour. Venora is a guide and storyteller. Ann also a guide and meditation coach; she has deep spiritual connections with this part of Slieve Gullion as her mother was born on the mountain just below the holy well and her grandfather helped to build the shrine dedicated to St Moninne in 1929. The tour includes a two-course lunch at Ann’s second world war hut in Meigh; this includes homemade bread with onion, lentil and rosemary soup followed by an award winning lemon curd dessert with tea and coffee.

Fermanagh

This year’s St Patrick’s Day festival in Enniskillen will start at 1:30pm on the Broadmeadow with a host of traditional and modern entertainment acts including Full Moon Fever. There will be a range of free activities including bouncy castles, balloon modellers, face painting and wandering mascots for all your selfie needs. Freebies on the day again courtesy of Lilley’s Centra sees chocolate fountains, green candy floss and of course their famous themed gelato in abundance.  On Lough Erne will host the Wakeboarding Leprechauns and St Patrick himself will be making his spectacular arrival via Castle Island before doing a meet and greet in the area. The parade itself will start from the Lakeland Forum at 3.30pm and ‘Snaking’ it’s way around Ireland’s only island town will be a mix of traditional and carnivalesque floats, music and dancing performances. This year has a theme of Go Green In 19, come dressed the part and we’ll be handing out some environmental freebies to help you get into the festival spirit!

Tyrone

The Blackwater Céilí Band hails from the Clogher Valley area of County Tyrone and takes its name from the River Blackwater which flows through the heart of Ulster. The band has competed at All Ireland level over the last 4 years culminating in 2018, where they were crowned All-Ireland Senior Céilí Band Champions in Drogheda. See them perform live as part of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at Ranfurly House, Dungannon.

Derry

This year’s Derry Spring Carnival takes place on the 16th and 17th March. As the dark skies of winter fall away, Derry will welcome the spring with open arms in a cacophony of colour and spectacle.  If you’re young in years or young at heart come along and join local communities take to the streets in a celebration of Youth. This year’s carnival parade will be a celebration of children and young people showcasing myths and legends from both Celtic traditions and the many diverse cultures across the world. See the full programme of events at derrystrabane.com/springcarnivalparade.

Antrim

What better way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day weekend?  Experience the steam train which will be operating at Whitehead Excursion Station. Visitors will be able to see at close hand how the magnificent Locomotive works.  You will be able to talk to the Driver and Fireman and to see the footplate.  There is also an additional option to enjoy a visit to the Edwardian Tea Room, or explore the Whitehead Railway Museum and discover the secrets of the RPSI’s 100-year-old Midland Railway buildings, together with the more recent additions.  Train rides will be running from midday to 4.00pm, every 15 minutes or so. Adult £2.50, Child £2, payable on the day.

Belfast

Make your way to St George’s Market to experience an authentic St Patrick’s Day.  Get set for a real taste of Ireland and sample some of the culinary delights on offer. You will be able to enjoy lots of entertainment including live traditional music, toe-tapping Irish dancing and workshops.  So pop in, relax and join in on the unmissable St Patrick’s Day celebrations. 

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

All little princesses (and princes of course) are invited to The Fairy Tale Princess Ball at the Belmont Hotel, Banbridge on Sunday 10th March at 2.00pm.  This is sure to be a fun filled magical event and will include meet and greets with all the classic princesses as well as lots of sing-a-longs, dancing, stories games, photo opportunities and much more.  Booking is essential. Tickets are priced at £12 each which includes one adult to accompany their child. Extra adults are welcome at an additional £2 each. Please note adults must stay with their child throughout the event.  For more information please contact leanne@tinylife.org.uk.

Armagh

Join composer and presenter John Anderson this Saturday as he conducts a celebratory and reflective event honouring our patron saint. Taking place in the magnificent setting of St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, choirs from across the island and further afield unite in a unique evening of music and spoken word. This is an exciting mix of words, music and dance, traditional and classical, ancient and modern, the reflective and exuberant, sacred and secular, all combining to make this a very special evening. Come along and celebrate our national saint with this uplifting, happy occasion dedicated to the true meaning of his life and legacy. A limited number of audience places are available. Please note these seats may have restricted views and that this event may be recorded for future broadcast and marketing purposes.

Fermanagh

Factory Girls by Frank McGuiness, Ardhowen Theatre, Friday 8^th March, performed by Dunmore Amateur Dramatic Society.  Set in the recessionary early 1980’s The Factory Girls tells the story of five women facing the threat of redundancy, who stage a lock-in in a shirt factory in Co. Donegal. As their protest continues the women learn more about each other and themselves as they explore their anger, courage and compassion.  The play was the stunning debut of Frank McGuinness, one of Ireland’s greatest living playwrights, and was first produced in 1982. Funny, engaging and moving.  Contains some mild language

Tyrone

Creating a storm around the country, Ireland’s favourite trio, Shane, Dominic, and Derek collectively The Three Tenors Ireland, have been the only Irish trio act to perform annually for the past five years in such prestigious venues as the National Concert Hall Dublin  The fab trio promise you a night to remember as they perform an exciting Celtic flavoured programme this Saturday 9^th March at the Alley Theatre, Strabane.

Derry

Doncaster, 2018. It’s moving day, join Keeley as she packs away her memories into boxes. Come in for a cuppa and give her a hand. As she packs up her plates and boxes up her treasures, she journeys back through her family history. Me, Mum & The Patriarchy is a witty one woman show that looks at the choices we make and explores whether women really can have it all. Saturday 9^th March at the Playhouse Theatre Derry.

Antrim

The sensational new Stage Musical “My Sweetheart and Me” is a rip-roaring, funny romantic comedy set during the Summer of Love 1967, in and around a popular cornerstone of the community Public house (The Suntree bar) in the fictional sleepy town of Cheerysville, Ireland.   ​Seen through a nostalgic lens, the story centres around two single love struck thirtysomethings, as they haphazardly struggle against all the odds, to get their new found love for one another off the ground. Theatre at the Mill,  8^th – 9^th March.

Belfast

Fresh from two consecutive years at the Edinburgh Fringe, join award-winning drumming comedy performer Paul Richards as he struggles to control his very merry ‘choir’ of comedians in their bid to tell you the entire history of pop music in just 90 minutes.  Packed with special guests and surprises, this gloriously messy singalong show will find our loveable/shambolic ensemble attempt to perform 62 songs in an hour and a half with a whole host of inevitable distractions…what could possibly go wrong? Crescent Arts Centre, Saturday 9^th March.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

The Soyuz capsule, which transported astronaut Tim Peake to and from the International Space Station, has landed at the Ulster Transport Museum Cultra. Get up close to this famous spacecraft to examine its fully equipped interior and the exterior char marks caused by its impact with Earth’s atmosphere. Admission is FREE. Alongside the exhibition, visitors can relive the descent from space from the eyes of an astronaut through the latest Samsung Gear VR technology. This fully immersive virtual reality experience, narrated by Tim Peake himself, is suitable for visitors aged 13 and over, and costs £6 per person. These tickets can be brought on the day of a visit.  Museum is closed on Mondays except for Bank Holiday Mondays.

Armagh

Visit Long Meadow Farm this Saturday for an unforgettable, fully guided tour in the heart of the Orchard County.  Traverse the beautiful orchards, explore the cider making facilities and sample award winning craft ciders. Tour includes an orchard walk explaining the different orchard plantations, a visit to the cold storage facilities, an opportunity to see the pressing & blending facilities, history of the oak barrels and of course sampling the craft ciders and apple juice as well as information on the health benefits of the award winning Apple Cider Vinegar.  Tea/coffee & apple tart included.

Fermanagh

Many of Fermanagh’s Visitor Attractions are opening their doors for FREE this weekend! Take this opportunity to visit and explore what Fermanagh has to offer. Bring your family and friends and make a day of it, travelling from one attraction to the next or for those of you visiting the county then why not make a night of it!.  With many local accommodation providers offering great deals for the weekend you’ll be spoilt for choice. Discover Fermanagh Open Weekend, 1st to 3rd March 2019.  

Tyrone

This Saturday at the Strule Art Centre Omagh, ‘OH! WHAT A FEELING!’ – Winner of ‘Best Newcomer’ in 2018 at the ‘National Tribute Music Awards’ and voted ‘Official UK No1’ by ‘The Agents Association of Great Britain’ is back in 2019 with a stellar line-up of world class musicians including Talon’s own Jonny Miller and the awesome  talent of Malcolm Pitt in this high octane show celebrating the music of Lionel Richie and the Commodores. ‘Dancing On The Ceiling’, ‘Easy’, ‘Say You Say Me’, ‘Stuck On You’, ‘Three Times A Lady’, ‘Hello’, ‘All Night Long’ and many more.

Derry

Do you love dogs, and running, and perhaps running with your dog? Then this is the event for you! Join Dogtrails NI for a race in Drumnaph Nature reserve, an enchanted woodland tucked away in the foothills of the Sperrin mountains, this Sunday 3rd March. This place has everything you could want from a canicross race with twisty technical routes, soft grassy trails that your dog can fly along, and of course a bit of mud for good measure.  This is a race you don’t want to miss!  See dogtrailsni.com for more information and to register.

Antrim

Smash hit dance spectacular DANCE IS LIFE, directed and choreographed by Jason Gilkison, Strictly Come Dancing’s creative director, is coming to Theatre at the Mill, 28^th February to 1^st March and Giovanni is ready to raise the temperature just a little bit more this time round!  The action packed production combines the Italian’s wit and charm, with outstanding music, sensational choreography, and stunning costumes by DSI.  DANCE IS LIFE features seven other world class professional dancers, including Strictly’s newest pro, Luba Mushtuk, who returns as Giovanni’s leading lady once again, to continue their alluring partnership.  A showcase of wonderful Ballroom and Latin dances like the Paso Doble, the Waltz, the Rumba and the Jive, to name just a few, with a beautiful Italian theme running throughout the show.  So sit back, let yourself be transported to Sicily, and enjoy the story.

Belfast

The classic nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty is brought to the stage in a wonderful live interactive all singing and dancing production, Humpty Dumpty’s Big Eggventure,  at Belvoir Players Studio this Saturday 2^nd March.  Humpty Dumpty is going to climb the highest wall in the Kingdom, but Humpty needs your help! Sing along, solve puzzles and meet lots of famous children’s characters along the way including The Three Little Pigs, Little Bo Peep, all the animals on Old MacDonald’s Farm and many more. When Humpty climbs the highest wall in the Kingdom, who knows what might happen next? Show begins at 2.00pm.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle