Pat Shortt is back with his brand new stage show called ‘Hey!’ at The Courtyard Theatre on Thursday 8 November at 8pm.

Following the sell-out successes of ‘The Hall’, ‘Selfie’ and ‘How’s Tings?’ and fresh from starring roles in the hit play ‘A Skull In Connemara’ and the film ‘The Belly of The Whale’, Ireland’s best loved comedian takes to the road with his latest quirky look at Irish life.

Pat is hugely excited about making his debut at The Courtyard Theatre with ‘Hey!’ Featuring brand new material and sketches, Hey! is a rogue’s gallery of odd ball characters, bizarre situations and even a song or two.  Pat promises a whole raft of new characters and promises to get “down and dirty with the audience!”

Hey! delivers a peculiar take on modern life that only the unique imagination of Pat Shortt could conjure up.

Hey! You have been warned! A show not to be missed. Tickets on sale now available from Box Office on T: 028 9034 0202 or online thecourtyardtheatre.com

THURSDAY 13^TH JUNE – TICKETS GO ON SALE THIS FRIDAY AT 9AM

Legendary, GRAMMY-award winning band Fleetwood Mac announced today a European tour, set to kick off in June with three exclusive performances currently announced in London, Dublin and Berlin.

Tickets for RDS Arena on Thursday 13^th June costing from €79.50 go on sale this Friday at 9am

Produced by Live Nation, the tour will feature the newly announced line-up of Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Christine McVie along with newcomers Mike Campbell and Neil Finn.

A limited number of LaneOne VIP Packages will also be available, including amazing seats with premium benefits such as transportation, preferred entrance and more. LaneOne premium VIP packages are available here.

For further information, please visit www.fleetwoodmac.com.

 

As part of the programme of events organised for this year’s City of Merchants, the Newry and Mourne Museum is once again hosting its highly anticipated walking tour culminating in a celebratory banquet at Bagenal’s Castle.

Focusing this year on Newry’s railway heritage, the tour will start at 2.30pm from the Museum, and will visit locations once occupied by stations, bridges and platforms. Participants will find out how the railway and port provided the foundation for Newry’s development as a mercantile centre on Carlingford Lough.

Starting at 5pm the banquet will be a sumptuous and enjoyable end to the walking tour. The menu consists of a cold meat buffet including a dressed salmon, ham and a choice of dessert, plus a glass of mulled wine.

Entertainment will be provided by Living History re-enactors who will perform songs and poetry inspired by the 1885 Golden Wedding celebrations of Newry MP and railway investor, Peter Quinn.

Peter Quinn was a merchant in Newry and served as a Justice of the Peace in the counties of Armagh and Down. He also served on the committee which issued the prospectus for the Newry, Armagh and Enniskillen Railway in the autumn of 1844 (the company was formed in 1845) and was on the Board of the Newry Navigation Company.

Speaking on Newry & Mourne Museum’s activities, Deputy Chairperson Oksana McMahon said: “It is great to see the return of the 2018 City of Merchants celebrations. The walking tour has proved extremely popular and it is a wonderful insight into the heritage and history of Newry as a Merchant town. By celebrating Peter Quinn through the banquet, it is a great way to acknowledge those that have helped build the trading legacy we are proud of.”

Numbers are limited and due to its high demand, we urge people to book tickets soon. Tickets are £10 and available from Newry Visitor Centre, Bagenal’s Castle Tel. 028 3031 3170

The City of Merchants Festival will take place from Friday 2^nd to Sunday 4^th November and will see a host of activities take place to celebrate the area’s maritime and trading heritage. Activities on Friday alongside the Walking Tour & Banquet at Bagenal’s Castle include a Twilight Market from 5pm to 10pm in Newry Variety Market Hill Street; free children’s art and craft workshops at the market; a sensational parade to the Fathom Line at 7.15pm; ending with a magnificent firework display from 8pm.

On Saturday you can enjoy the Tall Ships from 12noon to 4pm; a theatrical Merchant Quest through the streets of Newry created by theatre company Big Telly; interactive Horse and Trap tours; a theatrical guided tour of Bagenal’s Castle; plus, a comical look at trade through the years taking place in both The Buttercrane and The Quays Shopping Centres.  This year will also see the inaugural Scenic Carlingford Ferry Loop Sportive in which hundreds of keen cyclists will take on a 62km route around the shores of Carlingford Lough. More details on this event can be found at www.loopsportive.com

On Sunday in partnership with Kx and Newry Business Improvement District (BID), Aston Martin Red Bull Racing will be bringing one of its famous Formula 1 cars to Marcus Square in Newry. Set to take up its podium position outside the newly opened First Derivatives building, the car will be on display between 2pm and 4pm.

For more information on the overall City of Merchants Festival programme and for details on how to book tickets for the events please visit: www.heaveninaheartbeat.com/giant-adventures

Much-loved tenor, Alfie Boe has today announced a Belfast date at the Waterfront Hall on 29^th April 2019

*Tickets go on sale this Friday, 19^th October*

Alfie is one of the most acclaimed vocalists of his generation and a hugely successful, multi-platinum selling artist. He has triumphed on theatre stages and in concert halls around the world and has two recent UK #1 albums under his belt for albums ‘Together’ and ‘Together Again’, made with his great friend Michael Ball.

The duo also won two Classic BRIT Awards earlier this year for ‘Best Album’ and ‘Group of the Year’.

Alfie Boe releases his first album in four years on 23^rd November – a vibrant and instantly classic album As Time Goes By. This is a record that celebrates the golden era of music from the 30s and 40s, a time that is often overlooked – sandwiched as it is between the roaring twenties and rock ‘n’ roll.

Tickets go on sale this Friday 19 October at 9am

Tickets for the Waterfront Hall are available:

In person at the Ulster Hall Box Office

By Telephone: 028 9033 4455
Book On Line: www.waterfront.co.uk

In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour): Northern Ireland – 0844 277 44 55
Book On Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

Enter the world of Wicked Walks this Halloween.

 

Come and be guided through the historical grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens, Mossley Mill and Sentry Hill and hear about the goings on of yester year.  These evenings of tall tales and spooky stories will provide a sensory experience to entertain and enthral as we explore the darker side of some of our better- known venues.

Our storytellers will take you on a guided tour in the early evening when night has drawn in. These specially created Wicked Walks will reveal the shadowy side of our heritage with mirth, wit and a feast of unknown facts about the local area and beyond.

Suitable for ages 14+, these after-hours events would make the perfect date night, work night out, teen half-term fun or simply an opportunity for a friends get together.

With limited availability on each tour, early booking is recommended. To book please contact Box Office on T: 028 9034 0202 or ww.theatreatthemill.com

Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour start time. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather as these events take place outdoors.  To help chase away any shivers, warming refreshments will be available after each walk and a hot drink is included in the ticket price of £5

Only for those who dare step back in time during this spookiest time of the year! Are you brave enough?

 

Dates & Times:

Mossley Mill-

Saturday 27 October 6pm

Sunday 28 October 6pm

Friday 2 November 6pm

Sunday 4 November 6pm & 8pm

Antrim Castle Gardens-

Tuesday 23 October 6pm and 8pm

Wednesday 24 October 6pm and 8pm

Thursday 25 October

Thursday 1 November 6pm and 8pm

Sentry Hill House

Tuesday 30 October 6pm and 8pm (8pm Tour Sold Out)

 

Are you ready to be spooked out in Antrim and Newtownabbey?

Come along to Spooked Out at V36 at the Valley, on Wednesday 31 October from 6pm – 8pm. All ghosts, ghouls, villains, vampires, witches and wizards are invited to join in the freaky, free family fun this Halloween!

The festivities will kick off with Rebecca McKinney and the Cool FM Roadshow, followed by lots of family fun and frolics! Join in the Halloween games and enter the fangtastic fancy dress competition, to win some gorey prizes. We will also have face painting, bouncy castles and spooky characters to keep everyone entertained.

The evening will come to a close at 8pm when the Cave Hill will be a spectacular backdrop for a fireworks extravaganza*.

Access to V36 on foot will be by the main entrance, opposite KFC on the Church Road or, from the Valley Leisure Centre car park, along the footpath by the duck pond. Car parking at V36 is only available to blue badge holders.

For our full programme of events and information on car parking please visit www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/halloween.

*Please note the fireworks display is subject to weather conditions.

Moving On Music present the sensational Connla at The Old Courthouse, Antrim on Friday 19 October supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Connla have firmly cemented their place on the Irish music scene with their fresh and exciting approach to traditional music. Hailing from Armagh and Derry, the music is steeped in tradition and embraces sensitive and exciting arrangements of tunes and songs, alongside ample original material.

Described by Songlines Magazine as a “must see act” Connla are Ciara McCafferty (vocals/percussion), Ciaran Carlin (flutes/whistles), Emer Mallon (harp), Conor Mallon (uilleann pipes/whistles) and Paul Starrett (guitar).

With an EP and two albums all receiving rave reviews, a busy touring schedule that has seen them perform across the USA, UK, Ireland and Europe and a collection of accolades including the number one spot in Songlines list of Essential Irish Albums.  Early booking is highly recommended.

A band that will not just appeal to traditional and folk enthusiasts, Connla are five hugely talented young musicians making music that is original and exciting. More info and tickets from www.movingonmusic.com

 

Portrush Beach Races return on October 27^th and 28^th promising a weekend of thrilling entertainment.

Over 100 riders will take to East Strand for a series of exciting races in one of the Causeway Coast and Glens most scenic coastal locations.

Organised by Foyle District Motor Cycle Club with assistance from a range of organisations including Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, last year’s inaugural event attracted thousands of people to the resort.

This year, there’s even more to look forward as Sidecarcross racers will take to the sand as well as two and four wheel riders.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “The first Portrush Beach Races proved to be a resounding success for both riders and spectators and organisers are looking forward to building on this.

“The Causeway Coast and Glens enjoys a deserved reputation for its wide and varied events programme and this weekend of racing is a very welcome addition to our offering. East Strand promenade affords fantastic views of the action on the beach, helping to create an exciting atmosphere for everyone.

“I would like to thank Foyle District Motor Club for bringing an event of this kind to the area and we look forward to a memorable weekend.”

Andrew Huston, Race Co-ordinator said: “The Club really appreciate the support and encouragement we receive from Council. We feel that with all the measures and safeguards we have in place, we have proven that it is possible to hold this type of event while ensuring the beach is left in a pristine condition afterwards. Hopefully with kind weather it will prove to be another enjoyable weekend for everyone.”

Racing is due to begin at 10am on Saturday 27^th October followed by a noon start on Sunday 28^th.

Admission for spectators is free and car parking will be signposted from Metropole corner, a short walk from the spectacular viewing area.

Causeway Coast Foodie Tours ‘The Spud Tour’

Date: 12 October

Time: 10.30am – 6.30pm

Venue: The Causeway Hotel, Bushmills BT57 8SU

Contact: 07912 408 256

Guided tour by luxury coach showcasing some of the best local produce the Causeway Coastal Route has to offer. Enjoy a series of stops along the beautiful Causeway Coastal route with each one celebrating our potato breeding and growing heritage.  Cost: £55pp.

 

Northern Ireland Potato Festival

Date: 12 & 13 October

Time: Fri 7pm – 9pm National Trust Community Event / Sat 10am – 5pm Festival Day

Venue: Causeway Hotel, Bushmills

Contact: (028) 2177 1396

The NI Potato Festival celebrates the legacy of local man John Clarke OBE, a world renowned pioneer in potato breeding. The festival line-up boasts a variety of attractions including Naturally North Coast and Glens artisan market with food and craft producers, cookery demonstrations and talks, bouncy castles, exhibitions and displays, potato inspired games and a petting farm. Free event.

 

Malojian

Date: 12 October

Time: 8pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine

Contact: (028) 70 123 123

Malojian’s unique voice and songs sets him apart from the crowd. This concert will feature visuals using film from Northern Ireland Screen’s Digital Archive and new material by Belfast-based filmmaker Colm Laverty. Tickets: Full £13 / Concession £11.

 

The Causeway Speciality Market

Date: 13 October

Time: 9am – 4pm

Venue: The Diamond, Coleraine BT52 1DE

Contact: 07702 910884

A bustling speciality food and craft market held around Coleraine Town Hall on the second Saturday of each month. It is the largest regular outdoor market in Northern Ireland.

 

Drama Workshop for Adults

Date: 13 October

Time: 10am

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA

Contact: (028) 7012 3123

Sorcha Shanahan and Gemma Walker-Farren are the ‘MakeyUppers’ an original comedy storytelling act, together they specialise in devising theatre. They will guide participants through the theatre-making process from initial themes and ideas to performance skills, creative writing, stage craft, right up to the final production. Tickets £5

 

Causeway Coast Foodie Tours ‘Coast & Country’

Date: 13 October

Time: 9.30am

Venue: Departing from Coleraine Visitor Information Centre BT52 1DE

Contact: 07912 408 256

Guided tour showcasing some of the best local produce and hidden gems the North Coast has to offer. Enjoy 5 stops on tour along the beautiful Causeway Coastal route with each one offering a delicious and surprising taste experience. Cost £60pp.

 

Launch of the Girona Gold Story

Date: 13 October 2018

Time:  1 – 3.30pm & 7-10.30pm

Venue: Portballintrae Village Hall

Contact: www.visitcasuewaycoastandglens.com

The Portballintrae Community Development Group Launch the Girona Gold Story on Saturday 13 October in Portballintrae Village Hall. From 1pm – 3.30pm enjoy a free programme of events including storytelling and children’s treasure hunt.  In the evening there will be a Spanish / Irish Fusion event. Tickets for evening event cost £10.

 

Squirrel Walk & Talk

Date: 13 October

Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Cottage Wood, Cushendall

Contact: (028) 2075 2100

Join the Glens Red Squirrel group to celebrate “Squirreltober” with a guided walk through Cottage Wood to see if you can spot the Red Squirrel, which is regularly seen here. The woodland also contains a range of native and non-native species of trees and shrubs such as Scots Pine, Elder, Holly and Ash. To register book online at: squirreltober.eventbrite.com. Free event.

 

Saturday Poetry Slam

Date: 13 October

Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm

Venue: Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart

Contact: (028) 7083 1400

Bring words to life with Anne McMaster in the first ever Flowerfield Poetry Slam. Writers of all experience are invited to come along and participate, sharing words with an appreciative and small group. Refreshments provided. Tickets £4

 

The Illegals with Niamh Kavanagh – Rumours of Hotel California

Date: 13 October

Time: 8pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Ulster University, Coleraine

Contact: (028) 7012 3123

After 12 months of sell-out audiences The Illegals are taking their unique Rumours of Hotel California show on the road for another turn in 2018 to celebrate two classic rock albums from two iconic rock bands. Tickets: £18.

 

Cracks

Date: 17 October

Time: 8pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA

Contact: (028) 7012 3123

Cracks by Quintessence Theatre Company (in association with An Táin Arts Centre). A powerful piece of devised theatre from An Tain Arts Centre’s Company-In-Residence exploring the issue of mental illness in Ireland. Tickets £14 full / £12 concession

Wrestling Show, The Goodies vs The Baddies

Date: 18 October

Time: 7.30pm

Venue: Coleraine Town Hall

Contact: 07495 094558 www.wrestling.ie

Family friendly wrestling event in Coleraine Town Hall. Fantastic action with lots of crowd interaction. Adult £15 / child £12.50 / family £10 See website to book.

Brendan Quinn and Friends

Date: 18 October

Time: 8pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, University of Ulster Coleraine

Contact: (028) 70 123 123

Legendary country singer Brendan Quinn is on the road again. Brendan, who has shared the stage with such greats as Merle Haggard, Don Williams and Hal Ketchum will be joined on this tour by many of his musical friends. Tickets £17.50

 

Roe Valley International Folk Festival

Date: 18  – 22 October

Time: Various (see programme)

Venue: Various Venues throughout Limavady Borough

Contact: www.roevalleyfolkfestival.com

Featuring Roola Boola, John McNicholl Bank, Emily Barker, Damien Quinn, Banjoes, Newtown Stewart Traditional Music Quartet, Simple Truth, The Mitchells, Francis Harrison, Traditional Sessions, Bracken Folk and Many more the Roe Valley International Folk Festival  has become a premier music event in the North West area.

 

War Torn Children

Date: 5 September – 29 November

Time: Monday – Friday 9.30-5pm

Venue: Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: (028) 777 60650

Exhibition of textiles reflecting the theme of war torn children.  The exhibition features arpilleras, photographs and illustrations highlighting the devastating impact of war on children, their families and communities.

 

From the Medieval to the Modern: Reformation, Transformation and Continuity

Date: 12 September – 27 October

Time:

Venue: Ballymoney Museum, Ballymoney Town Hall

Contact: (028) 276 60230

Exhibition produced by Public Records Office Northern Ireland (PRONI) in partnership with Northern Ireland Libraries marking the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation. The display centres on historical documents, each offering their own distinct perspectives into the Reformation and its legacy.

 

How to Unexplode: The Illustrated Life of Patrick Sanders

Date: 17 September – 27 October

Time: Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, University of Ulster, Coleraine

Contact: (028) 70 123 123

Exhibition in Riverside Theatre showcasing the work of the late Patrick Sanders. Free admission.

 

Into The Blue by Kate Reid

Date: 6 – 31 October

Time: Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. Saturday 10am – 1pm

Venue: Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart

Contact: (028) 7083 1400

It’s all about ‘Blue’ in Kate Reid’s exhibition. In her abstract expressionist style, Reid explores the blueness of ‘blue’ inspired by the beauty of the land, the sea and the nature of the elements, life and emotions.  Using palette knife, on paper & canvas, this vibrant show presents works old, new and in progress. Launch on Saturday 6 October from 2- 3.30pm. Wine reception & refreshments served.  Admission free.

 

 

To coincide with World Judo Day on the 28^th October, Dojo’s across Northern Ireland are showcasing the sport and opening their doors to everyone from the 20^th to the 28^th October so that new participants can come and try judo for free.

Judo is both a martial art and a sport and it’s a fantastic way to get fit, increase concentration, learn new skills and enhance wellbeing through exercise.

This year, World Judo Day also promotes the concept of friendship in sport and although competition is based on an individual format, judo promotes working together to achieve goals.

A feature that makes Judo stand out from other sports is it’s fully inclusive and open from anyone aged from 5 upwards and both men and women can take part.

Over 20 million people around the world practice and train in Judo and here in Northern Ireland there are 60 clubs including schools and over 2000 members participate.

The Northern Ireland Judo Federation are hoping that more people will get involved and train both for enjoyment or perhaps find a sporting outlet if they are keen to get active and learn new skills, but perhaps don’t want to play team sports. Judo is also great if people want to supplement their training with a sport that builds strength and coordination.

Mark Donald from the Northern Ireland Judo Federation said:

“You can only really understand what is happening in Judo by going along and trying it for yourself. Many people think all martial arts are the high-flying kicks and punches that you see in movies and on the television.

Judo however is a grappling art and from this you build strength, confidence and along with that self-defence skills too.

Judo follows a moral code as well, which includes discipline and set rules that not only keep people safe whilst training, but also assists in steering younger players on in later life.

The best thing about Judo is, if you want to compete regularly there are plenty of opportunities, but if you just want to train then you can work your way through the belt ranking system towards the coveted black belt. There is something for everyone in the sport and our clubs are all very welcoming.”

Clubs that are taking part in the Try Judo week can be found at www.nijudo.com or the Federation office can be contacted on 02890 383814 Monday to Friday.