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Tickets are now on sale for Creative Peninsula, Northern Ireland’s largest celebration of Art and Craft. Now in its 18^th year, this thriving annual event brings together local artists and makers to demonstrate their skills and showcase their work.

Beginning on Friday 2 August 2019 and running throughout the month, Creative Peninsula, organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, offers free and bookable opportunities for people of all ages and levels of experience to see, learn about and even ‘try their hand’ at a host of different art and craft forms practiced in the local area. 

Featuring, open studios, creative tours, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations and more, Creative Peninsula is an ideal way to experience what the local art and craft industries have to offer throughout the beautiful and picturesque Ards and North Down Borough.

The programme kicks-off on Friday 2 August with ‘Creative Peninsula in the Square’ at Conway Square in Newtownards.  For one day only the space will be transformed into a tented arts and crafts village with more than 30 artists and makers displaying and selling their work.  Free demonstrations including glass engraving, wood turning, felting, printing, ceramics and more will run throughout the day.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Bill Keery said:

“With over 20,000 attendees each year, Creative Peninsula has become one of the most inspirational, educational and vocational arts festivals attracting people from all corners of Northern Ireland. Ards and North Down is very fortunate to have one of the largest concentrations of artists and makers living and working here and unsurprisingly the area has a thriving creative industry. We are delighted to be able to offer this event again which allows these talented individuals to showcase their knowledge and for members of the public to learn.”

The 2019 Creative Peninsula brochure is available to download at visitardsandnorthdown.com/creative-peninsula.  Tickets for bookable events are also available from this website. 

You can pick up a programme or find out more information on all the events on offer from Ards Arts Centre, North Down Museum, at any of the local visitor information centres (Ards, Bangor and Portaferry) or by contacting the Council directly on 0300 013 3333. 

Come along and celebrate School’s Out for Summer at V36 at the Valley, on Friday 28 June from 6pm-9pm.

Join us for Free Family Fun including Fairground Attractions such as Cups & Saucers, Bungee Trampolines, Bumper Cars, Inflatables, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling and Street Theatre to keep the little ones entertained.

Tempt your taste buds with some of the great food stalls available and enjoy the live music and performers throughout the evening. 

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman John Smyth commented “It is great to see this Free Family Fun Event at V36, this is a fantastic opportunity for children to celebrate the end of the school year whilst bringing communities together at this shared space”.

This event is supported by the EU’s PEACE IV programme managed by the special EU programme body (SEUPB).

Thousands of art fans are expected to attend Ireland’s largest sculpture exhibition, including the biggest collection of Salvador Dali works ever seen here, when Art in the Garden opens at the Culloden Estate & Spa on Saturday (June 15).

In conjunction with Gormleys Fine Art, 14 pieces from the Dali Universe in Switzerland will lead the exhibition which contains more than 120 sculptures, some of which are valued up to £500,000, and will be exhibited both in the grounds of the 12-acre estate and in the hotel until Sunday June 30.

Inside the hotel there will be rooms devoted to Warhol and street artist Banksy as well as a Modern Masters Collection in the Ailsa Suite featuring Picasso, Miro and Lucien Freud.

Less well known than his painting, Dali’s sculpture is equally mind boggling, and includes three dimensional versions of his famous melting clocks.

The outdoor sculptures will include Dance of Time III and Lady Godiva by the legendary surrealist, Salvador Dali.

Both pieces measure almost two metres tall and will be displayed outdoors in the hotel’s landscaped grounds. Twelve further works by Dali will be displayed within the hotel.

Ireland’s own surrealist sculptor, F.E. McWilliam (1909-1992) was a native of Banbridge, Country Down and fittingly, his work is also included in the exhibition.

Among the 40 artists featured at Art in the Garden are Patrick O’Reilly, Anthony Scott, Ian Pollock, Eamonn Ceannt, Michael Quane, Orla De Brí, Paddy Campbell, Sandra Bell, Bob Quinn, and Eamon Higgins.

Paintings by Damien Hirst, Robert Indiana, Grayson Perry, Tom Wesselmann, Keith Haring and Julian Opie will be on show in the hotel along with work by Irish artists such as Peter Monaghan, Stephen Johnston, Stephen Forbes and Kenneth Webb.

Howard Hastings, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels said: “Art in the Garden promises a unique opportunity to view these incredible pieces of work in the charming surroundings of the Culloden Estate & Spa. With its landscaped gardens and carefully manicured lawns, each location within the estate will act as a perfect backdrop to the biggest collection of sculptures to be displayed in Ireland.  We have created a delightful range of dining options to complement the exhibition including private dining and Afternoon Teas and there will also be private tours available.”

“We are delighted to be showing so many Dali’s for the first time in Northern Ireland alongside works by our leading Irish artists and all enhanced by the beautiful surrounding of the Culloden Estate,” said Oliver Gormley.

Art in the Garden promises an entertaining spectacle for both day trippers and serious collectors and, with prices to suit all budgets, is a good introduction for people wanting to begin a collection.

The exhibition runs from June 15-30, 11am to 7pm, with guided tours around the installations daily at 2pm, 4pm and 6pm.

To book an Art in the Garden Afternoon Tea, private dining or overnight stay call the Culloden Estate & Spa on 028 9042 1066 or go to www.hastingshotels.com

One of the world’s most prolific air show performers has given Air Waves Portrush a first class endorsement.

Mark Jeffries, winner of multiple titles for his aerobatic prowess, made his comments as he prepares to take part in the event with both individual and team performances to look forward to during the annual aviation extravaganza. It returns to the resort for two days of top class entertainment on August 31^st and September 1^st.

Organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the weekend draws huge visitor numbers to the seaside town with its unrivalled mix of air and land attractions.

While the Red Arrows won’t be on the bill this year as they embark on a landmark tour of America, the flying schedule still guarantees to thrill and delight, with Mark and his Global Stars teammates leading the way.

Looking ahead to their appearance, Mark said: “The unique display setting at Portrush could not be more spectacular and is a favourite amongst pilots in their UK display calendar. So please come and join the Global Stars for an exciting weekend of display flying among the best the UK has to offer.”

Mark will take to the skies with the Global Stars four-ship formation showcasing the best of freestyle flying and gravity defying manoeuvres. Having recently returned from the Bahrain International Air Show in India, get ready for mirror formation flying, Mark’s incredible solo performance and an unmissable finale featuring a distinct ‘love themed’ smoke trail.

On the ground, visitors can look forward to an extensive range of exhibits headlined by the STEM Village where the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics come alive in an interactive and engaging way. There’ll also be a showcase of the Destination’s artisan sector at the local food and craft market along with themed areas including a fascinating look back in time with the Ulster Aviation Society.

A not-to-be-missed dusk display will take place in Portstewart on Saturday evening (August 31^st).  Introduced a number of years ago, it has proved to be a popular addition to the event and the 2019 display will be the biggest so far. The Global Stars, headed up by Mark and featuring three other former British champions, will light up the skies with an exciting mix of close formation air displays and pyrotechnic magic with their trademark WiFi controlled smoke.

Planning is well under way and you can keep up to date with the very latest news including upcoming announcements on hospitality packages by following our social media pages on Facebook and Twitter or go to www.airwavesportrush.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to Portrush for one of the area’s most anticipated annual events. Air Waves Portrush is brought to you by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council with support from Tourism NI.

Hunkpapa have taken the Northern Ireland music scene by storm. Describing themselves as ‘four eccentrics, with a loose grip on social norms and reality’, not only are their sets incredibly fun and energetic, but they also ensure their live shows are all varied and keep the crowd coming back for more.

Hunkpapa take their audiences somewhere enthralling, liberating and truly wild.  Although relatively new, the band have been selling out some of the biggest venues in the country. Hunkpapa will perform at The Market Place Theatre in Armagh on Saturday 29 June. Entry is by wristband and costs £10. Catch them before they embark on a UK wide tour – simply not to be missed!

Tickets are available from the Theatre Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre. 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.

Join us on Saturday 22 June at 11am for a tour around the award winning Randalstown by our qualified Blue Badge Guide. Explore and discover a town steeped in rich history and heritage with some tasty treats along the way. The trail will take you round some of the most historic sites of an award winning town.

Discover a unique bridge from the glory days of steam and take in the many reminders of the areas industrial heritage and links to the linen and iron industries. The influence of the Old Bleach Linen Company and the O’Neill Estate will be explained and the links to the historic traditions of fairs and markets. One of the highlights of the walk will be crossing Charles Lanyon’s magnificent viaduct which affords wonderful views over the town and into the Shanes Castle demesne.

A project supported by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council through Randalstown town team will see tours in the town take place on the fourth Saturday of each month at 11am or by appointment at any other time. Tours last for up to two and half hours and will cost £5 per person. Already visitors from Northern and Southern Ireland as well as England, Scotland and Australia have been delighted to be taken through the ages with stories of Old Randalstown as well as being personally welcomed and offered hospitality by business owners.

For further information or to book a tour contact Randalstown Local Information Office (situated in Kearney’s supermarket Main Street) T. 028 9447 9800 or E. kearneysrandalstown@gmail.com

Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre in Limavady is proud to host the Danny Boy Jazz and Blues Festival launch night on Thursday 13^th June at 7.30pm.

Now the longest running festival of its kind in Northern Ireland, the event will feature acclaimed singer Clara Rose who will be joined on stage by a host of special guests.

The much loved festival, now in its 23^rd year, will run until Sunday 16^th June allowing audiences to enjoy some of the very best jazz and blues musicians and singers.

Tickets for the launch evening can be purchased by going to www.dannyboyjazzandblues.com/tickets

All other events over the course of the weekend are free. For further information go to www.dannyboyjazzandlues.com

Armagh band Hunkpapa’s track ‘Losing All’ is used as the backdrop to Armagh City Youth Hostel’s new minute long video.

‘Create Armagh Hostelling Memories’ transports hostellers through a year-round program of incredible things to do, pairing the homegrown soundtrack with evocative shots of Armagh’s unique events and vibrant festivals.

The video celebrates the hostel’s prime location, situated at the heart of the ancient cathedral city, adjacent to the beautiful St Patrick’s COI Cathedral and with spectacular views of the iconic St Patrick’s RC Cathedral. The hostel offers great value, modern accommodation for up to 56 people in twin, double and dorm rooms, all providing en-suite bedroom facilities. It welcomes groups of all sizes and interests, independent travelers of every age, families and has been awarded a 4* rating by Tourism Northern Ireland. The eighteen rooms include a fully equipped kitchen, spacious dining and lounge areas, a games room complete with pool table, free wi-fi, free spacious car-parking and a left luggage facility. The hostel opensApril through to October and welcomes larger group bookings during the period November – March and for the festival celebrations.

Armagh band ‘Hunkpapa’ have just increased their fan base after playing Open House Festival in conjunction with SnowPatrol’s Ward Park 3 concert. This follows Gary Lightbody’s effusive praise of the band’s songs and BBC Radio 1 presenter, Phil Taggart’s comment ‘Hunkpapa are the best band I have seen in ages with massive, massive tunes.’  Prior to their Ireland and UK tour in the autumn, Hunkpapa will be performing an intimate hometown gig in The Market Place Theatre on Saturday 29^th June and students are encouraged to bring the ‘end of exams’ summer party to Armagh with a hostel stay, a very special music gig and a chance to explore Armagh’s distinctive and eclectic cultural history.

To view ‘Create Armagh Hostelling Memories’ video, please visit www.facebook.com/armaghhostel

Fresh from a successful run at Edinburgh Fringe and London theaters, hit play Killymuck will make its Northern Irish debut at the MAC on 13-14 June.

A darkly comic, semi-autobiographical play about class, poverty and the struggle to escape by award-winning playwright, Kat Woods, the play centers on a fictitious housing estate in 1970s Northern Ireland, Killymuck, and follows Niamh, a kid from the benefit class system played by Irish actress, Aoife Lennon, as she navigates the trials and tribulations of life.

Directed by Cat Shoobridge (Recipient of the Genesis Future Director Award and Young Vic Associate Director), Killymuck highlights the lack opportunity, educational barriers, impoverishment, addiction and depression present in cycles of poverty.

Having been longlisted for an Amnesty International Freedom of Expression award and shortlisted for the Filipa Braganca acting award, the play explores how those from deprived areas or with less access to money often have less opportunity in life and shines a light on how social and psychological behaviours impact and shape who we become.

Speaking about the show, Kat Woods said: “There is a forgotten segment of society that we never talk about when it comes to the arts – the lower classes. The underclass. The benefit class. I am from that background and this piece is inspired by my own narrative. These stories need to be told and need to find representation on stage. We are in danger of theatre becoming an elitist domain. Let’s create theatre for all not just the few. Killymuck is my battle cry.”

Woods’ previous work includes Belfast Boy (Fringe Review Award for Outstanding Theatre, The Stage Award for Excellence), Wasted (New York transfer as part of the Fringe Encore Award), and Mule (Edinburgh, London and NI Tour).

Tickets for Killymuck at the MAC are on sale now at themaclive.com or call box office on 02890235053.

Strabane’s Big Weekend returns with Summer Jamm from Friday 14^th – Sunday 16^th June.  The town centre will come alive with live music, dance, street entertainment, arts & crafts, and ‘Strajamba’ Music Festival with headline act Nathan Carter.

Summer Jamm in Strabane kicks off on Friday night with DJ Jamie B & support in Ruby’s Nightclub.  Saturday is full of family fun from 1pm – 5pm as Encore PAA will be opening the event with a showcase extravaganza.  This will be followed with live music throughout the town from Folk N Trad Mad, Mad Notions, Strabane Brass Band and Trad for Youth. To celebrate Youth 19, local singers will be performing in the busking tent including Juno Hassan, Jamie Donnelly, Darci Wilders to name but a few.   

Families will enjoy an array of street theatre, flash mobs, games, funfair, face painting, Jungle Pets, and a host of activities for the whole family to enjoy.  Plus a range of products and food will be available from a selection of stalls from Strabane Market.

North West Regional College (educational partners of Summer Jamm) are back with their National Award Winning Careers Team.  Join them at a ‘Careers Roadshow’ –which will encourage people to indulge in some beauty treatments, health checks, have a go at gardening and learn more about computer coding!

Closing Saturdays afternoon activities will be Class Act Choir with a performance that you don’t want to miss.

The entertainment continues from 5pm as ‘Strajamba’ live music festival is back in Canal Basin for another year of great music.  Headlining the big stage will be country sensation Nathan Carter, supported by some amazing local acts.  Make a night of it with food, licenced bar and VIP Tent. On until 11pm, the atmosphere is sure to be electric with the best of local artists and the best of Country music.

Country music continues on Sunday with a FREE family concert.  This years ‘Country Fest’ in Canal Basin will welcome back the superb Johnny Brady, David James and a host of local musicians! Join in the fun with plenty of activities including circus workshops, arts & crafts and face painting! Love dancing? Then join with the jiving and line dancing happening throughout the afternoon. Grab a bite to eat at a choice of food stalls and relax and enjoy the sun in the licenced bar area.

Summer Jamm in Strabane is organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council and supported by Strabane Business Improvement District (BIDS), North West Regional College and Youth 19.

Speaking ahead of attending this year’s festival, newly-elected Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Cllr ______ said: “The Summer Jamm in Strabane is growing year on year to become one of Council’s most popular annual events. Indeed, it’s great to see the festival running over three days – which means lots more fun and entertainment for all!

“Having viewed this year’s programme, I can guarantee there’ll be plenty of family-friendly activities to suit everyone. I also expect this year will be even more popular than previous years with a brilliant mix of rising and established stars on the programme.

“With such a strong programme, I have no doubts that thousands of people will visit this year – firmly establishing the event as the largest celebration of live music & entertainment in Strabane’s cultural calendar!”

Kate Duffy, Director of Human Resources and Learner Services at North West Regional College added: ‘We’re delighted to be the official education partner for the Summer Jamm in Strabane.  This ongoing partnership will enable local learners to take part in a range of interactive career activities delivered by our National Beacon Award winning Careers team. We will have current students and tutors on hand throughout the day to answer any questions, in conjunction with a full timetable of live demonstration in horticulture, joinery, health & beauty, plus fun competitions in weight lifting and gardening.

Come along and find out about our new and exciting range of courses, as we will be based in Butcher street car park from 1pm – 5pm on the 15^th of June.

Michael Kelly, MK’s Bar and Chair of the Strabane Business Improvement District (BID) added: “The BID are delighted to be bringing Strajamba Live Music Festival to Strabane for the third year. After the huge success of Strajamba 2018 with headline act Hothouse Flowers this year’s event is aiming to be bigger again. We have an amazing line up of bands, across two stages headlined by Nathan Carter. The theme for this event is ‘nurturing home grown talent’ – and will host a number of performances from the Wailin Banshees, David Oliver, Adam Dolan, Shonagh Forbes, Darren Doherty & the Heathen Choir, and multi-platinum songwriter and Eurovision finalist Mickey Joe Harte.   Strajamba has been such a huge hit with the public – and with country legend Nathan Carter headlining this year I have no doubts that it will be a fantastic evening with a positive impact on the town of Strabane!”

For further information and a full list of the programme details please visit www.summerjammstrabane.com