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Cancer Fund for Children provides vital support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer. On Thursday 21^st November, they are hosting a special Twilight Concert in the iconic St Anne’s Cathedral to raise money towards their vital services with the help of event sponsors, Power NI and Causeway Securities.

Nestled in the flickering glow of candlelight, attendees will be treated to a mesmerising evening of music and connection with performances by the wonderful ARCO String Quarter, Ireland’s premiere vocal band Ardú and the charity’s own Care Free Choir made up of families supported by the charity, staff and volunteers. This event will also be hosted by award-winning journalist, Holly Hamilton.

Speaking on this, William Steele, Managing Director of Power NI said:

“Power NI are delighted to be supporting Cancer Fund for Children’s Twilight Concert for a second year in a row. Cancer Fund for Children does tremendously valuable work across Northern Ireland for those young people diagnosed with cancer, their families and their communities. We look forward to November 21st and what promises to be a wonderful night for a great cause.”

After experiencing their own childhood cancer diagnosis, the McMillan family were supported by Cancer Fund for Children and will be performing at the event as part of the Care Free Choir.

Speaking on their involvement, they said:

“Choir gives us a chance to come together with other families that have been through similar situations. It allows us to support each other as a group through laughter and music and to celebrate our successes and process our tougher moments together as a choir family.”

Each week in Northern Ireland, approximately 3 children and young people (aged 0-24) are diagnosed with cancer. Purchasing tickets to this event will help fund Cancer Fund for Children’s vital services so they can be there for families when they need them most.

Tickets can be purchased on the charity’s website today where you can also find out more about this organisation and how you can support. Visit https://cancerfundforchildren.com/event/twilight-concert/.

Mirth and merriment were the orders of the day on the Ulster Hospital’s Paediatric Wards as The Artscare NI Clown Doctors marked 20 years with children, families and staff.

The ‘clown doctors’ are a core troupe of actors, performers, musicians and dancers who have undertaken bespoke ‘clown doctoring’ training and visit sick children in hospital and hospice settings to brighten their day through creative play and fun.

14-year-old Lucie Frame described how much the Clown Doctors had “cheered” her up as she had plans to go away over the weekend. “The Clown Doctors came in and really cheered me up,” said Lucy. “They are really funny and my Dad was even joking around with them and they made me feel better.”

Founding member Paul Taylor, otherwise known to children and young people on the hospital wards as ‘Dr Clooless’ explained how much 20 years bringing joy and laughter meant to him and the team. “I want to say thanks to the Ulster Hospital for allowing us to come and entertain and meet the children these past 20 years. I even have ‘Clown Doctor’ down as my profession on my children’s birth certificates,” Paul laughed. “We work so well with the hospital Play Specialists and the staff here, we are a big team here. We like to think we bring a different atmosphere onto the ward and I know how anxious you can get on a hospital ward, I’ve been here with my own children. As Clown Doctors, we hope that the children and young people can build a relationship with us.”

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt was onhand to congratulate the Clown Doctors on their milestone. “For 20 years the Clown Doctors’ service has been helping children who may be worried or nervous in hospital and they must be praised for the work they have done and continue to do, and the joy they bring, not only to the children, but also the families.

“I know Artscare as a charity is committed to enhancing the lives of individuals in healthcare and community settings through the transformative power of the arts, and its vision is to ensure that everyone across Northern Ireland has the opportunity to experience the positive health and wellbeing benefits that creative engagement brings and in settings such as this that has to be encouraged. The large number of interactions and sessions the Clown Doctors have had last year, and this year is a testament to the excellent work you do and the impacts you have for the children, their families and the staff in the wards.”

Ulster Hospital Healthcare Play Specialist Sharon Pauley described how she and the team were “honoured” to host the momentous birthday celebrations. “We have had the pleasure of having the Clown Doctors on our Paediatric Ward since they started. We were the first Trust to host the Clown Doctors Programme.

“It is a great honour for us to be able to kick off their celebrations here at the Ulster Hospital and it’s great for them to showcase their incredible work to the Health Minister and our Chief Executive Roisin Coulter and Chairman Jonathan Patton.

Sharon continued, “The Clown Doctors have provided an amazing service over the years for the children and they are amazing at engaging the children, young people and parents that are in our care. They promote mental health and well-being and have such a positive impact on people’s mood on the ward. They say that ‘laughter is the best medicine’ and we have seen that in action thanks to the Clown Doctors.”

Barry Macaulay, CEO/Artistic Director Arts Care said, “This year, we proudly celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Arts Care Clown Doctors in Northern Ireland. These highly trained professional performers use the art of clowning to bring joy, comfort, and relief to children and young people who are anxious, vulnerable, or unwell.

“Through playful interactions and imaginative storytelling, our Clown Doctors Dr Muddle, Dr Clooless, Dr Fizz, Dr Dapper, and Dr Twinkle create magical moments in healthcare settings, from hospital bedsides to waiting rooms across all five Trusts.
“Currently, Arts Care are commissioned directly by the Department of Health to deliver these vital services and supported by occasional Trust charitable fund contributions.

“However, with creative health funding due to transfer directly to the Trusts by March 2025, the future of our Clown Doctors’ service is uncertain.
“We are hopeful that the Trusts will recognise the profound impact our Clown Doctors have such as opening doors to imaginative worlds and offering much-needed moments of respite and joy.”

Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Roisín McDonough, added, “Anyone who has witnessed the extraordinary, uplifting work of the Arts Care Clown Doctors will recognise how effective the arts are at helping sick children and their families and carers cope with the complex range of emotions they may experience during their stay in hospital. In these situations a little happiness goes a very long way.

“The work of these professionally-trained Arts Care performers, supporting the clinical and nursing staff, is one of the most heartening examples I know of, of how the arts can make a very real and meaningful difference to people’s wellbeing and quality of life, in what can otherwise be anxious and stressful situations.”

Ahead of the release of their first studio album in eight years, Come Ahead, Glaswegian legends Primal Scream have announced details of their upcoming UK/EU tour, which includes a show in the Ulster Hall Belfast on 14 April 2025.

Tickets on sale Friday 1 November at 10am

The Come Ahead Tour marks Primal Scream’s anticipated live return after 2022’s Screamadelica Live and 2023 headline summer shows were rapturously received. The band’s headline performance at Crystal Palace’s South Facing Festival was described as “a powerful, emotionally charged performance” by The Telegraph in a five-star review.

Come Ahead finds Primal Scream’s principal songwriter, vocalist and frontman Bobby Gillespie preparing to release some of the most personal songwriting of his band’s career. The songwriting process for Come Ahead began in 2022, at which point Bobby Gillespie had no idea if he would make another Primal Scream album again. For the first time in a long time, the lyrics came before the music. The story came first. Bobby wrote alone, using an acoustic guitar. Ideas flowed fast, in long bursts of inspiration. This process, in tandem with encouragement from producer David Holmes, provided a new way in. Working with Holmes and Primal Scream guitarist Andrew Innes, the Come Ahead sessions were completed between Belfast, London and Los Angeles.

The time that’s elapsed since Primal Scream’s previous album has seen Bobby Gillespie at his most prolific. Shapeshifting between some of the most celebrated projects of his career whilst steadily stockpiling the songs that would become Come Ahead. His 2021 memoir Tenement Kid was selected as Rough Trade’s Book of the Year, and won the NME Award for Best Music Book. The band’s era-defining Screamadelica album celebrated its 30th anniversary with huge sold-out gigs across the UK, including London’s Alexandra Palace. Gillespie teamed with Paul Weller writing lyrics for ‘Soul Wandering’, the first single from his latest album 66, and collaborated with Jehnny Beth in Paris writing and recording an entire album of duets titled Utopian Ashes. Bobby also collaborated with acid house duo Paranoid London, singing on their new song ‘People (Ah Yeah)’, and composed his first movie soundtrack for the 2023 cinematic release Five Hectares with French filmmaker Émilie Deleuze. Bobby also sings on six new songs on the forthcoming Peter Perrett album, The Cleansing. This myriad of new creative projects provided the vital space for Come Ahead to take shape.

Connect with Primal Scream

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Christmas at the Cathedral returns to Armagh on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 December for the eighth year to celebrate the true essence of Christmas through the beauty of music and song.

The sacred surroundings of St Patrick’s Cathedral will come alive with the stirring melodies of renowned folk and spiritual artist Malachi Cush. Malachi will be joined by acclaimed baritone Karl McGuckin, Armagh’s own vocal gem Eilis Fox, and the talented choir from St Catherine’s College.

Accompanied by a full chamber orchestra, Christmas at the Cathedral promises to usher in the Christmas season with grandeur and grace in one of the most majestic of settings.

Speaking of Christmas at the Cathedral, Malachi said: “Of all the performances I’m blessed to take part in during the festive season, Christmas at the Cathedral is by far my favourite. The event holds such a special place in my heart as it provides the audience with the opportunity to get together with friends and family in a breathtaking venue to sit back and pause while soaking in the true spirit of Christmas. The heartwarming musical arrangements, whether they be familiar carols or moving solos, are designed to evoke cherished memories of Christmas past while creating new memories to take into the future.

“I am looking forward to sharing the stage again with my dear friend Karl McGuckin, who needs no introduction, and to welcome the enchanting Eilis Fox, whose distinctive voice is one of Armagh’s treasures. The vibrant voices of the choir from St Catherine’s College will add a youthful and uplifting energy to the evening and I have no doubt that the audience will leave the concert filled with the magic of Christmas.”

As Ambassador for St Vincent de Paul in the Northern Region, Malachi has chosen to support SVP with a donation from the event on Friday 13 December with St Patrick’s Cathedral benefiting on Thursday.

Tickets for Christmas at the Cathedral are priced at £22.50 and are available now online at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/christmasatthecathedral/

Come along to Ards Puppet Festival in Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards on Sunday 27 and Monday 28 October, for lots of puppet family fun!  The Autumn-themed festival, organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, will welcome a packed programme celebrating animals of all shapes and sizes, through puppetry performances, workshops, and even a Puppet Petting Farm!

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of puppetry with Sea Legs Puppet Theatre’s gentle, musical retelling of The Ugly Duckling, where you’ll meet the Story Man and a host of other colourful characters. Join Henry Clutterback and The Musicians of Bremen on an exciting new journey filled with friendship and bravery. Keep an eye out for the wolf in Banyan Puppet Theatre’s classic rendition of Red Riding Hood and get ready for plenty of fun when Granny hosts a sleepover in the brand-new show Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite!

Over both days, festival-goers can enjoy Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre’s lively performance of Billy Goats Gruff and Professor Queen-Bee’s It’s Bee-Hind You, a Punch and Judy-style show with a ‘green’ twist. Handmade Theatre Company will charm audiences with their Puppet Petting Farm, where families can interact with handcrafted animal puppets. Children can also participate in puppet-making workshops to create their own characters.

Speaking about the festival, Arts Community Development Officer, Amy McKelvey said: “We are thrilled to be presenting a variety of puppet talent at this year’s festival and can’t wait to welcome families to Ards Arts Centre for a truly magical event which will appeal to young and old alike.” 

With a mix of bookable shows and free activities, Ards Puppet Festival promises two-days of fun for the whole family. The festival takes place from 27 – 28 October in Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards.

To view the full programme and to book tickets, go to: https://puppetfestival.andculture.org.uk/whats-on

– The award-winning festive event is a celebration of Armagh’s Georgian heritage –

Armagh’s annual Georgian Festival will kickstart Northern Ireland’s festive season, marking the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Returning for its 20th year this November, the award-winning event will run from November 28 to December 1, launching the Cathedral City’s Christmas celebrations. The city is set to bring its Georgian past to life through buildings, characters, customs and a jam-packed programme of events that will appeal to history buffs, curious families, culture vultures and foodies. Many of the events are free to attend, and so the destination is preparing to welcome thousands to the city across the four days.

Festival goers can choose from a range of guided tours, each offering a unique glimpse into Armagh’s rich history. From the scenic Palace Demesne Tour and exclusive Archbishops Palace tours to the informative Guided Georgian Walking Tour, there’s something for everyone. Food lovers can indulge in a sparkling three-course feast in the glorious surroundings of the Archbishop’s Palace at the Highwayman’s Banquet as they listen to tales and tunes dedicated to stories of the Notorious Highwaymen & Rapparees, creating a dining experience that seamlessly blends history, storytelling, and fine cuisine.

There’s also the chance to get a taste for the pitiless Georgian legal system as a member of the jury at Armagh Courthouse in a mock-trial – a spectacle of rough justice. Throughout the city, festivalgoers will encounter iconic Georgian figures—noble gentry, street urchins, and gin-soaked ladies—as they wander and explore. On The Mall, families can enjoy an array of festive activities, including traditional funfair rides like the Carousel and Swing Boats, along with classic games such as Hoopla, Hook a Duck, and Coconut Shy. Santa’s reindeer will even make an appearance, and as night falls, fire performers will light up the evening for all to enjoy.

Topping off the programme is the acclaimed Light Show. It will run Friday 29 November and Saturday 30 November and is a dramatic Holly Jolly Christmas animation that will transform the Market House into a shimmering canvas for images, special effects, and other surprises. (Tickets essential)

Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Cllr Kyle Savage, said, “Our Georgian Festival is an established cornerstone of Armagh’s cultural calendar – it’s recognised far and wide for its impressive selection of activities, and the unforgettable energy and atmosphere it brings to the city. Through the combined efforts of the local Council team, and our artists, performers, retailers and artisans, we’ve been able to build an event that brings the local community together, whilst also welcoming visitors to experience the rich heritage and history of Armagh City and its surrounding areas.”

The Georgian Festival originally launched in 2004 as a one-day market, thanks to the efforts of a team of remarkable local retailers. Since then, it has transformed into the four-day celebration known to most today and has soared in popularity with people from Ireland and the UK, as well as international visitors, as a result. The artisan market element of the festival has now grown to include more than 130 festive market stalls selling high-quality crafts, gifts, food and seasonal products, making it one of the largest on the island. Set to take place on Georgian Day, Saturday November 30, the Georgian market stalls will take place as the clip clop of horses and the aroma of roasting chestnuts and mulled spices fills the street.

Roberta Wright of Wrights Interiors on Scotch Street in the city was part of a team of retailers who were responsible for establishing Georgian Day in its early days.  It was created as an opportunity to showcase Armagh, to highlight the wealth of independent retailers in the city and add some Christmas sparkle for visitors. She said, “It’s incredible how far the festival has come since we first launched in 2004. Armagh has such a unique history, a fascinating story to tell, and a community of people who are passionate about the heritage of this place, and our Georgian Festival gives us the perfect platform to showcase everything that makes Armagh the wonderful place it is. Excitement is already building for our 2024 celebration, and I would highly recommend visitors pop by the wide range of independent stores in the city to do some Christmas shopping as they make their way around the exciting activities taking place across the city.”

The team behind the festival are continuing to embrace sustainability as Gill Robb, Events Manager at Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, explains. She said, “Our famous, must-see light show, running on the evenings of Friday November 29 and Saturday November 30, will switch to a more sustainable power source this year, whilst park and ride facilities will also be available on Saturday. We’ve also tried to limit as many single use plastics as possible with stallholders switching to compostable plates, glasses and cutlery, and abiding by our complete ban on plastic bags.”

For more information and to book tickets for special events head to visitarmagh.com.

Families can enjoy a spook-tacular array of activities in Belfast city centre this half term as the Halloween break approaches.

Children can get their wiggles out at the Wiggle Room – a free attraction for families, at the MAC Belfast, as part of Belfast City Council’s Belfast 2024 creative celebration.

Developed by Boom Clap Play, together with Playboard NI, Big Motive and local kids, it’s a digital ball pit that comes to life with colourful animations, characters and sounds to keep little people moving and big people happy.

Open 11am-5pm, Tuesdays to Sundays until 29 November.

The Augmented Reality experience at City Hall’s visitor attraction also offers a free rainy day activity. Call in to discover the city’s hidden rivers and secret passageways at this immersive attraction – a unique collaboration with BT, again presented for the Belfast 2024 programme.

Kids can play interactive street games from yesteryear, take a peek at the city of the future and send a postcard packed with famous Belfast landmarks.

Open 9.30am-5pm Mondays to Fridays and 10am-5pm on weekends. Last entry is 4pm.

As part of their Halloween takeover – supported by Belfast City Council – the Belfast One pumpkin patch will be back in the grounds of City Hall on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October.

Over 1,000 pumpkins will be ripe for picking at the now sold-out event, and friendly scarecrows and magical witches will be on hand to help families choose their favourite, alongside autumnal activities for all ages.

Look out too for colourful inflatable monsters popping up across the city centre from Sunday 25 October to Friday 1 November, including at Victoria Square and CastleCourt where there is plenty of seasonal fun planned.

Follow the special monster map to find all seven spooky spots, including devilish decorations along Donegall Place.

2 Royal Avenue hosts fang-tastic activities on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October, 11am-5pm. Join in with no-carve pumpkin decorating, mini monster art workshops, face painting, a creature corner and spooky walkabout characters.

Fancy dress is encouraged and entry is free.

Over at St George’s Market, shoppers and visitors can take part in creepy craft workshops this weekend (11am-2pm), alongside the market’s usual live music line-up.

Or, if your little monsters prefer sport to spooks, check out the range of free try-it events available at council leisure and community centres this half-term.

From Monday 28 to Wednesday 30 October, kids can sign up to give sports like futsal, gymnastics, basketball, martial arts and dodgeball a go – all for free.

For dates, times and locations, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/events

Belfast Zoo also hosts Boo at the Zoo on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October with lots of extra activities available for families, including spooky animal talks, eerie sensory play and a ghost story trail.

Book tickets at belfastzoo.co.uk