The Market Place Theatre Brochure: Jan - May 2025

SEASON AT A GLANCE

JANUARY

MARCH

FEBRUARY

MAY

APRIL

Celebrating

FOREWORD

FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

I am delighted to be able to write this foreword for the 25th Anniversary programme of The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre.

It’s with great pride and pleasure that we celebrate the silver anniversary of The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre in its 25th year.

The Market Place has been a home and hub for the arts within our borough for a quarter of a century and since it opened has played a vital role in the economic, social and cultural life of the city and wider borough for our residents and has attracted visitors from far and wide.

Our council is committed to encouraging participation in arts and cultural activity through high quality programmes and opportunities to engage, helping improve physical, mental and social well-being. The Market Place epitomises that commitment, it is a meeting place, a melting pot, a place of creativity, education and ideas, where we can tell our stories and listen to others. I know the Theatre has a wonderful year of entertainment and activities planned and I hope you enjoy your visit. Thank you all for your continued support.

Since opening in the year 2000, The Market Place has forged a special place in our community’s heart hosting many thousands of local, national and international artists across the entire spectrum of cultural activity. As Lord Mayor, I’m particularly proud that many artists had their first artistic experience in The Market Place before going on to forge highly successful careers in the creative industries.

During the past 25 years over 1.4 million people have attended performances, exhibitions & workshops and a wide range of other activities and I would like to thank our artists, council staff and all of you for making this venue such a success for our borough. Please watch out for our anniversary event ‘Curtain Up for 25’ scheduled for 1st March 2025 which will commemorate this special occasion. THE LORD MAYOR

MORE ENTERTAINMENT FOR LESS THIS SPRING

Book tickets for any three (or more) of the following performances, and receive 25% off the total ticket price:

• The Special Consensus | Sat 25 Jan

• The Ulster Orchestra | Thurs 6 Feb

• Under The Lights | Thurs 27 Feb

• Quatuor Béla | Sat 5 Apr

• Genticorum | Sat 17 May

• Little Women | Wed 21 May

Tickets must be booked at the same time, and offer will only apply when an equivalent number of tickets are booked for each show.

SPECIAL TICKET OFFERS

FIRST-TIME BOOKERS

First time bookers get £5 off their next booking.

GROUP DISCOUNTS

For groups of 10+ the 11th ticket is offered free. Enquire at box office when booking

STUDENT STAND-BY TICKETS

A limited number of student standby tickets will be available for £5 on the week of a show. These are subject to availability. Enquire at box office for details.

CONCESSION TICKETS

Concession tickets are offered on some of our shows for Senior Citizens, Students, Disabled Patrons And Unemployed. Enquire at box office

£5 SEATS

A number of seats will be available for £5 for people and families totally dependent on state benefit. Shows marked R in our brochure are included in this scheme.

SOCIAL MEDIA OFFERS

Like Our Facebook Page f /marketplacearmagh

or Follow Us On Twitter t @mptarmagh

and get £2.50 off your next booking. One time offer only.

CREATING THE IDEAL NIGHT OUT… DRINKS PROMOTIONS FOR SPRING 2025

January 2 Winter Warmers (Hot Whiskey/Port/ Brandy)

£8

February

2 ¼ bottles of Prosecco

£11

March  2 1/4 Bottles of Wine or 2 Kinnegar Ale

£9

April

2 Bottles of Cider (Magners/Rekorderlig)

May

2 Gordon’s (DryPink) Gin & 1 Fevertree

£9 £10

We are also pleased to offer a wide range of premium gins & tonics.

Live Music In The Bar

January: The Freedom 35s (Sat 4) | February: Steelhouse Blues (Sat 15)

March: Tony Villiers & The Villains (Sat 15)

Stay tuned to The 4th Wall’s social media for tailored special promotions for shows. Interval Drinks: We recommend pre-ordering your interval drinks at any of our bars before the performance to avoid queuing at the interval.

f @the4thwallarmagh t @4tharmagh i @thefourthwall2022

ENJOY A MEAL IN AN AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT BEFORE THE SHOW

Armagh is Northern Ireland’s ‘Food Heartland’. Passionate producers, quality artisan creators, and award-winning chefs are transforming Armagh into a gourmet hub and are fast gaining a tasty reputation. This long line of awardwinning restaurants offer a fantastic dining experience before the show.

CHARLEMONT ARMS HOTEL

57-65 English Street, Armagh BT61 7LB

Situated a two-minute walk from the theatre with customer parking for diners, The Charlemont Arms continues to serve the finest of locally sourced seasonal produce.

Food served daily: Lunchtime (12noon-2.30pm), and evenings (5pm - 8pm). Booking is essential. Visit our Facebook page to see our latest offers.

p 028 3752 2028

e info@charlemontarmshotel.com

DANTE’S ARMAGH

81 Upper English Street, Armagh

Dante’s Armagh serve up fresh Stone Baked Pizza, Stacked Burgers, Loaded Sides and Refreshing Cocktails. A short walk from the Market Place Theatre with dining available from 5pm Tuesday to Sunday. A perfect start to your night out at the Market Place.

Bring your tickets along to receive a 10% discount on show nights.

p 028 3752 6979

EMBERS

RESTAURANT

7 Market St, Armagh BT61 7BW

The perfect destination in Armagh for an affordable, relaxed, casual dining experience. Embers is located only 50 metres away from The Market Place, so is the ideal venue to start your night at the theatre. Owned by husband & wife, John & Sarah Murray, this family run business serves great local produce at affordable everyday prices but without compromising on quality or service. The restaurant is fully licensed with a brand-new cocktail menu. Early bird and à la carte menu with fresh daily specials available.

Booking is advised for pre-theatre dining.

p 028 3751 8544 e info@embersrestaurant.co.uk

FRIARY RESTAURANT AT ARMAGH CITY HOTEL

2 Friary Road, Armagh BT60 4FR

From traditional tastes to exciting new flavours, the Armagh City Hotel offers a range of dining options to suit all tastes. The Friary Restaurant, open Friday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday lunchtime, offers an intimate atmosphere and plenty of food for thought, whilst our Callan Lounge; open daily from lunchtime

to late evening, offers secluded corners, a cosy fire and a relaxing atmosphere. All this plus the hotel’s Deli, also open daily, available for those wanting a snack or lighter meal. Using the finest local produce and the latest international techniques, our awardwinning chefs have designed mouth-watering food to suit all tastes.

p 028 3751 8888

e info@armaghcityhotel.com

KEEGANS BAR AND BISTRO

48 Irish Street, Armagh BT61 7EP

Offering a unique dining experience. Relax and soak in the atmosphere while enjoying delicious freshly prepared food with a varying menu to accommodate all tastes and prices to suit all pockets. We regularly offer a two or three course meal deal which is a big hit with locals and visitors alike. You can choose to dine in our traditional bar area or move through to our newly opened dining area. Serving food

Wednesday - Sunday 12-9pm

p 028 3751 7673

e keegansbar1994@gmail.com

MULBERRY BISTRO

6 Cathedral Road, Armagh BT61 7PX

Located opposite the stunning Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (Roman Catholic), the award-winning Mulberry Bistro offers picturesque scenery accompanied by exceptional cuisine. Open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week.

p 028 3751 0128 e mulberrybistro@gmail.com

THE GATHERING ROOMS

4 Vicars Hill, Armagh BT61 7ED

The restaurant is a Social Economy project supporting young people with autism to gain skills to move forward into employment.

Just a short walk from the theatre with one of the best views of Armagh City, serving seasonal locally sourced food from our Early Bird menu with BYO option available.

Booking is essential p 028 3752 5900

THE PARKLAND ARMAGH

7 Newry Road, Armagh, BT60 1EN

The Parkland is situated at the County Armagh Golf Club with views overlooking the Cathedral City. Award winning local chefs bring the best of casual and fine dining to the heart of the city sourcing the finest ingredients from nearby farmers and producers. Newly established in 2021, the restaurant has already achieved Restaurant of the Year awards in consecutive years. Ever-changing menus leave a new dining experience to be enjoyed every six weeks.

p 07513 693 114

ULURU BAR & GRILL

3-5 Market Street, Armagh BT61 7BW

Uluru Bar & Grill is an awardwinning restaurant based in Armagh city’s historic Market Place area. Awarded for its casual dining, the Australian neighbourhood style restaurant celebrates authentic cooking with an Australian twist. We are open Tuesday to Sunday 12pm to 8.30pm offering theatre goers the perfect chance to savour superb food and an extensive drinks & cocktail menu!

p 028 3751 8051

e gday@ulurubarandgrill.com w ulurubarandgrill.com

AUTISM IMPACT AWARD

Here at The Market Place Theatre, we’re delighted to announce that we’ve received the Autism Impact Award in association with Autism NI.

The award is in recognition of staff training and recent improvements at The Market Place, made to enhance the experience of visitors with autism. A range of adjustments include relaxed performances to reduce anxiety and provide a less stressful experience, a chill-out area to take a break during performances, and a pre-visit guide and virtual tour to view the building before your visit.

Please contact the Box Office for further details.

NEIL DELAMERE: ACHILLES

NEIL

Sun 29 Dec & Fri 3 - Sat 4 Jan 8pm | £26.50

Our comedy hero is back on the road with a brand new epic stand-up show.

Join one of Ireland’s favourite comics as he takes on life’s absurdities in his own inimitable way. A celebration of the altogether too frequent weaknesses that make us human.

Don’t miss the hilarious Achilles Neil.

*Does not contain any actual Greek mythology

Please note this performance will contain strong language and adult content. Recommended for age 16+.

THE WHISTLIN’ DONKEYS

H

Sat 11 Jan | 8pm | £27.50

Hailing from County Tyrone, The Whistlin’ Donkeys have been performing together since 2011 and have gained a strong following in Ireland and around the world. The band are known for their unique blend of traditional Irish music and Celtic rock influences, creating their own distinctive sound that will keep your feet stomping and hands clapping all night long.

The band features Fergal McAloon on vocals, Stephen Corrigan on

guitar, Tomás Quinn on banjo, Michael Kerr on fiddle, Danny McCormack on bass, and Oscar Bradley on drums. Together, they deliver infectious energy and captivating live performances that are not to be missed. From fanfavorites like ‘Bees Wing’, ‘South Australia’, and ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’, as well as their latest release ‘When The Ship Comes In’, the band perform a perfect mix of upbeat songs, catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics that create an unforgettable experience for all who come to see them.

Whether you’re a fan of Irish folk music or Celtic rock, the Whistlin’ Donkeys are a band that you won’t want to miss.

ONE LEAN, MEAN, COMEDY KILLING MACHINE ★★★★★

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

THE STARS OF COUNTRY SHOW H

Fri 17 Jan | 8pm | £25

Back by popular demand The Stars of Country Show returns for another night of memorable toe-tapping magic that features six of your favourite stars all in one super show. The stellar line-up includes the hilarious Gary Gamble with his surreal impressions of Daniel O’Donnell, the young social media phenomenon Owen

Mac with his hit song

‘Play Me the Waltz of the Angels’, the yodelling king from Tyrone, Kenny Archer, the hugely popular Curtis Magee with his entertaining stories and medleys, as well as the rising star of Country music from Co. Down, Gavin Gribben and his hit song ‘Pub Crawl’. Each of the acts will be accompanied by top backing duo, Country Harmony, who might even sing a song themselves! One thing is for sure, if it’s country music you like, then this is the show for you!

SEAN MORGANROONEY: LUNCHTIME RECITAL

Sat 18 Jan | 1.15pm | £12 | £10 (conc) £6 (students)

Pianist Seán Morgan-Rooney, originally from County Down, has a varied performing career as a soloist and chamber musician. In the past year, he has travelled to Iceland to perform contemporary music with the Caput Ensemble, to Japan to perform with his violin duo partner Bas Treub, and to Canada to develop his own interdisciplinary performance project at the Banff Centre.

Seán is the winner of several prizes for his playing. In 2015 he won the Brennan Prize for the highest placed Irish competitor at the 10th Dublin International Piano Competition. Following this, he released a debut album and appeared as a concerto soloist with several of Ireland’s major orchestras.

Two tales of romance come together in this recital of Schumann and Prokofiev: Schumann’s monumental Fantasy in C major, a musical outpouring to his beloved Clara Wieck, meets Prokofiev’s melancholic, whimsical take on the romance-defining tale of Romeo and Juliet. Coming in the middle of these two works is Unsuk Chin’s fantastical etude ‘In C,’ inspired by Balinese gamelan music and serving as a ‘harmonic reset’ between two harmonic worlds.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

JAKE O’KANE: THE ABSENT INTELLIGENCE TOUR

Sat 18 & Fri 24 Jan | 8pm | £25

Jake O’Kane, one of the country’s most popular stand-up comics returns along with the talented Terry McHugh for his annual end of year review show.

Expect a high-tech presentation of photos and videos picking apart the great, the good and the not so good from 2024.

As always, the backbone of the show remains Jake’s unique mix of political satire and personal observations covering his struggles with ageing, modern technology and his beloved Protestant and halflings. If you’re one of Jake’s army of fans you’ll already know who the Protestant and halflings are; if you don’t, then you won’t regret buying a ticket to find out!

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

Through a series of exploratory workshops and live performance, Bruiser Theatre Company bring the drama curriculum to life in this full-day crash course for Drama students. This is your opportunity to put theory into practice and get to grips with Bruiser’s unique physical theatre style. Suitable for GCSE, A-Level and BTEC Drama Students.

Bookings can be made through education@bruisertheatrecompany.com

THE ODD COUPLE

(DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SCREENING)

Thurs 23 Jan | 11am | £5 (includes tea/coffee & biscuits)

DIR: GENE SAKS | 1968 101 MINS | CERTIFICATE PG

Neil Simon’s classic stage comedy made an effortless transition to the big screen in 1967, when ‘The Odd Couple’ provided Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau with a tailor-made mid-career affirmation of their status as two of cinema’s greatest funny men.

Lemmon is Felix, manically obsessed with cleanliness and housekeeping, struggling to understand why his wife wants a divorce. Matthau is Oscar, his slovenly poker-playing buddy who invites him to take the spare room and lives to regret it as they rapidly and comically come to grief like an old, totally incompatible, married couple!

MPI BANDS LTD PRESENTS

SHARON SHANNON H

Thurs 23 Jan | 8pm | £25

In June 1989, Sharon was rehearsing and demoing tracks for her first album, when she was whisked away to the Glastonbury Festival with The Waterboys.

In the 30 years since then, Sharon has recorded ten studio albums, five live albums, four ‘Best Of…’ compilations and three live concert DVDs. She has received many awards including being the youngest ever recipient of the Meteor Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

She has collaborated, recorded and toured with everyone from Willie Nelson, Bono, Johnny Depp, Shane MacGowan and John Prine to Nigel Kennedy and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, and had many hit records including ‘The Galway Girl’ with Steve Earle, ‘It’s Christmastime Again’ with Wallis Bird and ‘Go Tell the Devil’ with Imelda May.

Our dementia friendly screenings are open to all, but have been tailored with care, attention and insight, to be accessible for people living with dementia.

This event will take place in our studio theatre with an unreserved, cabaretstyle seating layout.

In 2023 Sharon released a new compilation album ‘Now and Then’ to celebrate 30 years at the forefront of Irish Music.

GREATEST 80S SHOW

Sat 25 Jan | 8pm | £25

Back by enormous public demand. Get ready to travel back in time to the 1980s with this exciting live music theatre production.

This high-energy show features all of your favourite hits from the decade of neon and big hair, including songs from iconic artists like Duran Duran, Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Spandau Ballet to name just a few.

With a dynamic and powerful set full of the greatest songs of the 80s, this show is a massive hit with audiences of all ages. It will take you on a nostalgic journey through the decade, with memorable performances of classic songs such as ‘Take On Me’, ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’, ‘Together in Electric Dreams’ and ‘Real Gone Kid’.

Featuring a setlist that is both electrifying and heartfelt, the show is a celebration of the music, fashion and culture of the 80s and always has audiences dancing in their seats! Don’t miss your chance to relive the decade that defined a generation.

NIGEL MARTYN PRESENTS

THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Sat 25 Jan | 8pm | £22

Chicago-based bluegrass outfit Special Consensus has covered a lot of musical territory in the half a century since banjoist Greg Cahill founded the band in 1975. Two-time Grammy nominees and six-time International Bluegrass Music Association winners, the group has amassed an expansive discography of over 20 releases.

With their latest release ‘Great Blue North’, Special Consensus turns their gaze northward, across the great lakes, to Canada.

The album offers a thoughtfully curated collection of well-known and obscure songs from Canadian writers and features collaborations with some of Canada’s most notable bluegrass and folk musicians. Taken as a whole, ‘Great Blue North’ expands Special Consensus’s musical footprint, furthering their legacy as Chicago’s premiere bluegrass ambassadors and establishing them as torchbearers for the international reach of bluegrass music. 2025 will mark the band’s 10th visit to The Market Place Theatre.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout.

ONE LIFE

Mon 27 Jan | 10.30am | £4 (teachers free)

Dir: James Hawes | 2024 | 109 Mins | Certificate 12

Starring Anthony Hopkins, Helena Bonham-Carter and Johnny Flynn, ‘One Life’ tells the true story of Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton, a young London broker who, in the months leading up to World War II, rescued 669 predominantly Jewish children from the Nazis. Nicky visited Prague in December 1938 and found families who had fled the rise of the Nazis in Germany and Austria, living in desperate conditions with little or no shelter and food, and under threat of Nazi invasion. He immediately realised it was a race against time. How many children could he and the team rescue before the borders closed?

This film is being screened in commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day 2025.

SONGS AROUND AN IRISH FIRESIDE

Fri 31 Jan | 8pm | £23.50

Introducing a concert show like no other, The Murphys will bring their home to the stage, with hits such as ‘Streets Of Promise’, ‘Dancing With The Fisherman’ and ‘My Connemara Marble Ring’.

‘Songs Around an Irish Fireside’ is designed around the Murphy’s living room, the place where dad Pat used to sing to his little girls and play his accordion every night beside the fire, the same living room that all of their hit songs were later written in.

With beautiful stage visuals, a full live band and specially designed costumes all wrapped up in family harmonies, The Murphys welcome you into their family home, for a very special night of songs and memories showcasing their proud contribution to Irish country music.

DAVID LYTTLE PRESENTS

DAVID LYTTLE PRESENTS

JAZZLIFE

JAZZLIFE

Fri 31 Jan | 8pm | £10 | £5 (U18 & Students)

Fri 31 Jan | 8pm | £10 | £5 (U18 & Students)

The MOBO nominated drummer/composer presents next generation NI jazz talent from Jazzlife Alliance’s Jazz Juniors scheme.

The MOBO nominated drummer/composer presents next generation NI jazz talent from Jazzlife Alliance’s Jazz Juniors scheme.

Drummer/composer David Lyttle started out in the band of Irish guitar legend Louis Stewart and has gone on to bring his projects to almost 50 countries, recently including tours in North Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Canada, and receive nominations in the MOBO Awards and Urban Music Awards. He has worked with many global jazz icons and carried out several ambitious artist residencies, including a coast-to-coast U.S. road trip performing for subcultures ranging from bikers in California to UFO tourists in Nevada. Closer to home, David is the founder of Jazz Juniors, a nationwide jazz improvisation scheme for under 18s funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Recently David had the honour of performing for President Michael D. Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin.

Sat 1 Feb | 8pm | £28

The brand-new stand-up comedy show from “Yer Man” off Instagram.

Drummer/composer David Lyttle started out in the band of Irish guitar legend Louis Stewart and has gone on to bring his projects to almost 50 countries, recently including tours in North Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Canada, and receive nominations in the MOBO Awards and Urban Music Awards. He has worked with many global jazz icons and carried out several ambitious artist residencies, including a coast-to-coast U.S. road trip performing for subcultures ranging from bikers in California to UFO tourists in Nevada. Closer to home, David is the founder of Jazz Juniors, a nationwide jazz improvisation scheme for under 18s funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Recently David had the honour of performing for

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved,

‘One of the world’s great contemporary drummers’ All About

‘One of the best listening experiences you’re likely to have this

‘ONE OF THE BEST LISTENING EXPERIENCES YOU’RE LIKELY TO HAVE THIS YEAR’ ROLLING STONE

‘The best in jazz coming out of Ireland in recent times’ The

After two years making us laugh out loud into our phones, hundreds of millions of views, thousands of seats filled across Ireland and the UK, Jarlath Regan is back with a totally new barnstorming stand-up show like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

In a world of relentlessly bleak news and constant negativity, take a break and make space for laughter and watch ‘a master at work’ (Patrick Kielty). After selling out every single seat on his ‘Yer Man’ tour in 2024, Jarlath is on the road again and travelling around the world with a completely fresh, never before seen stand-up comedy show guaranteed to have you ‘In Bits’.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

LISANALLY SPECIAL SCHOOL CONCERT H

Wed 5 Feb | 7.30pm | £12 | £8 (conc)

Lisanally Special School is hosting an entertaining concert that will showcase the talents of both its pupils and staff. The line-up will also feature Hamiltonsbawn Silver Band and various other artists.

All proceeds from the concert will be used to support the school, contributing to the betterment of the educational environment for the students. Join us for a night of great music and support Lisanally Special School.

THE ULSTER ORCHESTRA ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Thurs 6 Feb | 8pm | £20 | £18 (conc) £6 (under 18)

Bartók Romanian Dances | Bloch From Jewish Life | Vaughan Williams 5 Variants of Dives and Lazarus | Dvořák movements from Legends Op.59 and Czech Suite

Conductor: Rolf Verbeek | Cello: Thomas Isaac

From Bartók’s passion for learning and collecting the music of his Hungarian homeland to Bloch’s

inspiration from both Jewish religious and secular music, and Vaughan Williams’s love of arranging new English discoveries for orchestra, composers have always been fascinated by folk music; learning about it, popularising it and weaving it into their work for orchestra. Much of what you will hear in this concert has its roots in folk music familiar to and beloved by the featured composers and it makes for a vibrant and dramatic evening of music - you might even spot a local favourite!

Alongside works by these scholars of folk, the Ulster Orchestra also gives a rare performance of movements from Dvořák’s Legends, a contemplative piece said to be designed as a series of meditations on the lives of saints. The Orchestra welcomes Rolf Verbeek to the podium, and the Orchestra’s Cello Section Leader Thomas Isaac performs as featured soloist.

TCB PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIEW:

GREEN RIVER

TOUR

H

Fri 7 Feb | 8pm | £22

The UK No 1 Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute show bring you ‘The Green River Tour’ celebrating Creedence Clearwater Revival’s No 1 Album ‘Green River’ and their No 1 hit single ‘Bad Moon Rising’. Experience a twohour nostalgia trip back to 1969, the heady days of Woodstock and

NEWPOINT PLAYERS PRESENTS

THE TRIAL OF JOHN MITCHEL (AND HIS STATUE) BEFORE THE COURT OF HISTORY

Fri 7 Feb | 8pm | £14 | £12

(conc)

one of the most important musical periods in history, along with all the greatest hits including ‘Proud Mary’, ‘Have You Ever Seen The Rain’, ‘Fortunate Son’ and many more.

Selling out venues internationally, they were invited to perform at The O2 Arena VIP Lounge in 2018 for guests at Fogerty’s show. Review are established as the definitive tribute among theatre audiences, with an authentic, honest and power-packed celebration of the Creedence legacy. They conjure up the full throttle, high-energy experience of seeing Creedence on stage in their prime, and six decades on, we experience the spirit of Creedence reprised with Creedence Clearwater Review.

First performed in Newry Courthouse, in this historical and political fantasy John Mitchel (1815-1875), an unashamed racist, is called from the grave to answer the charge that he committed a crime against humanity. Padraic Pearse (1879 - 1916), barrister, revolutionary and admirer of Mitchel, is the defence lawyer. The prosecutor is Sir Charles Gavan Duffy (18161903), founder of the Nation newspaper and once a friend of John Mitchel. They clashed, bitterly, over the use of physical force and Mitchel’s support of slavery and became lifelong enemies.

Mitchel’s wife, Jenny Verner (c.1820 - 1899), who shared his life and opinions, is called as a witness for the defence. The Liberator, Daniel O’Connell (1775 - 1847), who believed only in moral force, achieved Catholic Emancipation and championed the repeal of the Act of Union, is called as a witness for the prosecution. The judge is Dionysus Cronos who was present at the trial of Socrates. All of the ghosts are aware of what has happened in the world since they entered the grave. In that vein the play addresses the issue of Mitchel’s statue and legacy. The audience is the jury. Written by Anthony Russell and performed by the award winning Newpoint Players.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout

TOY STORY

(RELAXED SCREENING)

Sat 8 Feb | 11am | £5

Dir: John Lasseter | 1995

77 Mins | Certificate PG

Pull-string cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is Andy’s favourite toy until Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) arrives. The two have an ongoing feud but are forced to team up when they find themselves stranded in the real world. Through their attempts to return to Andy’s room they forge a unique friendship.

Relaxed screenings are open to everyone but may benefit individuals with autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties or sensory and communication difficulties or those who may benefit from a more relaxed environment.

SUBISH LTD PRESENTS THE FUREYS H

Sat 8 Feb | 8pm | £30

Legends of Irish music and song, The Fureys are renowned for their hit songs ‘I Will Love You’, ‘When You Were Sweet 16’, ‘The Green Fields of France’, ‘The Old Man’, ‘Red Rose Café’, ‘From Clare to Here’, ‘Her Father Didn’t Like Me Anyway’, ‘Leaving Nancy’, ‘Steal Away’ and many more.

They are particularly proud of their UK chart success with songs which helped bring Irish folk and traditional music to a completely new audience.

The band made their Top of the Pops debut in 1981.

Eddie Furey recalls how ‘many musicians have told us we influenced them after hearing a record from their parents or grandparents’ collection’. Dave Stewart of The Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on the guitar while still a teenager. Their emotive songs have been known to stir many emotions; tears and laughter, sadness and joy.

MAGGIE

Wed 12 Feb | 8pm | £25

Missed the Feg Run? Yer Ma sold out? Never seen the original 50 Shades of Red, White and Blue? Well, now is your chance to catch up with ‘Le Muff!’ Maggie is back with a brand-new show which is the whole story - all four Maggie plays - in one show! We’re talking Mr Red, White and Blue and his ‘red room of pain’, getting caught short at Dirty Dancing lessons, a Feg Run to remember and of course, Maggie finds out who her Da is... There will be titters, belly-laughs and the tears will be running down your legs! All the laughs and all the highlights! Put some fun into your New Year and come and see Maggie Muff - the whole story! Written by award-winning playwright Leesa Harker, directed by Andrea Montgomery and starring the fabulous Caroline Curran - sure you’re guaranteed a geg!

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

PATRICK FEENEY’S COUNTRY & GOSPEL SHOW H

Thurs 13 Feb | 8pm | £26

Patrick Feeney was born to sing and from the tender age of four he wanted to be on stage with his father who played in a local band. His phenomenal success, especially over the past few years, is summed up in three words from the title of his first album back in 2003 - that title says it all… ‘Thanks to You’. It’s 18 years since the then-teenager released that debut album, and while he has recorded countless songs since, he still lives by the motto that it’s thanks to you, the fans, that he is such a success today.

Patrick has legions of fans across Ireland and is a regular guest on TV and radio. A versatile performer, he is known nationally for his remarkable tenor voice and has won many prestigious awards over the years. Why not join one of our finest for an unmissable night of inspirational Country and Gospel.

ONCE

Fri 14 Feb | 7.30pm | £7

Dir: John Carney | 2007

77 Mins | Certificate 15

Oscar-winning drama about two kindred spirits who find each other on the bustling streets of Dublin. One (Glen Hansard) is a street musician who lacks the confidence to perform his own songs.

The other is a young mother (Marketa Irglova) trying to find her way in a strange new town. As their lives intertwine, they discover each other’s talents and push one another to realise what each had only dreamt about before.

Contains strong language.

THE PM BIG BAND

Fri 14 Feb | 8pm | £15

The PM Big Band are excited to be back in The Market Place Theatre.

This classic Big/Swing band pays homage to legendary artists such as Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Count Basie and Duke Ellington as well as performing up-to-date arrangements by the likes of

Michael Bublé, Amy Winehouse, Tom Jones, Lady Gaga and popular music from film and stage.

Come along and hear this fabulous band for yourself - we guarantee a night of lively, toetapping music which will leave you “humming” the weekend through.

GENERATOR PRESENTS

ROCK RISING H

Sat 15 Feb | 8pm | £26.50

Get ready to be electrified as Rock Rising returns to The Market Place, promising a thrilling classic rock show, designed to catapult you through the evolution of classic rock.

Showcasing an excellent 7-piece band, taking incredible musicianship and stagecraft to a different level, this show features rock anthems from legendary acts such as Pink Floyd, AC/DC, Journey, Foreigner, Toto, Thin Lizzy and many more multi-platinum selling artists from the last four decades.

Timeless classic songs, huge hits, all painstakingly recreated and delivered with a unique sense of honesty and vibe, encapsulated in a stunning custom designed light and pyrotechnic show - always leaving the audience wanting more.

GAEL LINN PRESENTS

COIRM H

Tues 18 Feb | 10am

Coirm Gael Linn aims to encourage Gaelscoileanna to prepare and perform a variety show to an audience through the medium of Irish.

BRADLEY SHOOTS LTD

PRESENTS

Thurs 20 - Sun 23 Feb

Tickets from £12

Relevé promises a weekend like no other; comprised of dance, competition and celebration. Dancers from across the island will come together to compete, celebrate and grow in their art form.

Jazz, lyrical, musical theatre, acro and more... join us for our third year of this growing competition, at the prestigious Market Place Theatre.

Professional judges, award-winning photography, dance workshops, dazzling staging, luxury awardsRelevé is ready to rise in 2025!

More info at: www.releve.co.uk

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Thurs 20 Feb | 7pm | £12 | £10 (Student)

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde directed by Max Webster. Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy.

While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar façade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster (Life of Pi) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live at the National Theatre in London.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

National Theatre Live Screenings

London’s National Theatre makes world-class theatre that is entertaining, challenging and inspiring. And now, they make it for everyone.

National Theatre Live is National Theatre’s ground-breaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre to venues in the UK and internationally, and The Market Place

Theatre is delighted to be involved. With state-of-the-art filming techniques, tailored to each play, you can now attend every performance as it happens, in all its glory. This is theatre for everyone.

Please watch the website where details of future screenings will be announced.

SCOIL DRAMAÍOCHT PRESENTS FÉILE SCOILDRÁMAÍOCHTA

2025 SCHOOLS’ DRAMA

FESTIVAL FOR PLAYS IN IRISH: REGIONAL FESTIVAL

Tues 25 Feb | 10am-1pm | £5 | £2 (conc) H

Talented young Gaeilgeoirí from schools in Counties Armagh, Down and Tyrone will come to The Market Place Theatre to take part in Féile Scoildrámaíochta 2025, a regional festival for short plays and musicals in Irish. Our adjudicator Aingeal Lund (née Nic an tSabhasaigh) brings a career of experience and success entering plays at local, provincial and national levels in An Cumann Scoildrámaíochta.

Cuirfidh aos óg Ard Macha, an Dúin agus Thír Eoghain féasta drámaíochta ar fáil don lucht féachana. Beidh iomaíocht ghéar ann do na hainmniúcháin chuig Féile Uladh na Scoildramaíochta sa Ghrianán, Leitir Ceanainn 11 agus 12 Márta 2025.

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

PHILOMENA BEGLEY &

Wed 26 Feb | 8pm | £26.50

Philomena Begley and Ray Lynam are two household names and true legends of Irish Country music and have both had glittering careers spanning over six decades at the very top of the music scene. They have both enjoyed massive success and have seen their respective careers hit great heights, scoring countless No.1 hit songs

like ‘Blanket on The Ground’, ‘Gypsy Joe and Me’, and ‘The Queen of the Silver Dollar’. They regularly play to packed houses in every hall, festival and theatre from Ireland to Tennessee.

Both Philomena and Ray have shared stages with the likes of George Jones, Tammy Wynette, and Charley Pride, along with all the top Irish stars. This upcoming ‘We Go Together’ tour will see both stars duet songs like ‘My Elusive Dreams’, ‘We Go Together’ and ‘Somewhere Between’ to name but a small few of their impressive catalogue. One thing is for sure, if it’s Country Music you like then this is a rare chance to see real Country Music Royalty!

Early booking is advisable.

THE SHORT COMEDY THEATRE CO

LTD PRESENTS

PAT & FAYE SHORTT: KNUCKLE DOWN H

Thurs 27 Feb | 8pm | £25

Pat and Faye Shortt are back again with their slick comedy show Knuckle Down.

Due to popular demand, they are returning with the final leg of the tour. The show is a collection of mad characters that have

won over audiences in venues throughout Ireland and the UK. Knuckle Down shows off the incredible talent of these two performers, as they glide seamlessly from stand up to hilarious parodies of everyday Irish people. They have the genius of taking ordinary situations and making us laugh at the mundane.

The sharp wit and physical comedy genius of this comedic duo will have you in pain with laughter. Don’t miss this final opportunity to catch this hilarious sell-out show before it closes.

This show will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+.

C21 THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS UNDER THE LIGHTS

Thurs 27 Feb | 8pm | £15 £13 (conc) | £10 (students)

Josh Blair was never any good at team sports, that is until he joins Invictus Grammar School, goes to a rugby training session and is hooked!

After four years of school rugby, the team have made it through to the semi-finals of the Medallion Shield, but in the last few minutes of the game, something is not

right. Josh is unsure about going back on, but his team need him, his school needs him, he needs this. Josh takes up his position on the pitch and stands in line, under the lights.

Everyone involved in contact sport should know the signs and symptoms of concussion. A suspected brain injured player should be removed immediately. This play highlights the need to change people’s minds regarding the urgency of brain safety in all contact sports.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout. This event is subject to funding.

PRESTIGE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

PRETTY VACANT H

Fri 28 Feb | 8pm | £28

Not many musical explosions define a generation and change music forever. There was Rock and Roll in 1956, Beatlemania in 1963, Flower Power in 1967, the birth of Rock in 1970 and then there was… Punk and New Wave.

Between 1976 and 1979 the music world and popular culture was turned upside down as bands, musicians and fashion adopted a new and fresh ‘DIY’ approach to making music and self-expression.

For the first time all the hits, attitude and fashion are brought to the stage by this incredibly talented cast of musicians, singers and dancers that will take you on a rollercoaster ride you will never forget.

Featuring hits originally performed by The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Blondie, The Damned, Ramones, Buzzcocks, Sham 69, The Undertones, Tom Robinson Band, Ian Dury and The Blockheads, The Police, The Jam, Generation X, Siouxsie and The Banshees, The Pretenders, Joy Division, The Stranglers, The Rezillos, and many, many more, Pretty Vacant - The Story of Punk and New Wave is THE stage show not to be missed.

CURTAIN UP ON 25

Sat 1 Mar | 7.30pm | £20

The Market Place is 25 and we’re very proud of the part we play in our community.

Join us as we host a special performance to celebrate a quarter of a century of bringing the best in entertainment to Armagh City. Featuring a host of local and national artists, this is a show not to be missed!

Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for further information.

JENDAGI PRODUCTIONS LTD PRESENTS

THE MUSICAL 2: CRUISING THROUGH MENOPAUSE

Wed 5 Mar | 6pm & 8.30pm | £32.50

With an all-star cast yet to be announced, we present the final Irish tour of the smash-hit show, ‘Menopause the Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause’.

In this hilarious sequel to our sell-out hit ‘Menopause the Musical®’, we fast forward five years to catch up with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and losses as they set off on the high seas.

Featuring hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses and weight gain, Cruising Through Menopause is a truly funny, heartfelt and reassuring look at the “joys” of menopause. When your life is a bumpy ride full of twists and turns, it’s hard to find and keep true friends. But step on board and we’ll take you on a trip of self-discovery, love and friendship all backed by a soundtrack of hysterical parodied hits!

For these four ladies the menopause was not the beginning of the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers, and friendships never fail.

So, all aboard and we’ll have you laughing and maybe even crying, as you join us for Menopause the Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause.

Contains strong language and adult material. Recommended for age 16+

Thurs 6 Mar | 8pm | £27.50

A fantastic evening with three of Ireland’s biggest and best Country stars as they present some of the most well-known hit songs of Country Music.

Sing along with iconic hits from Don Williams, Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, John Denver, Hank Williams, Jim Reeves, Vince Gill and many more. Johnny Brady, Claudia Buckley and John Hogan will showcase songs such as ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’, ‘Coat Of Many Colours’, ‘Ring Of Fire’, ‘Blanket On The Ground’, plus a whole host of hit Country songs from 1950’s right through to today! With a few stories and some fun moments, come along, sit back and sing along to your favourite Country Music Hit songs, with Ireland’s brightest and best!

BRIAN

MYRA’S STORY H

Fri 7 - Sat 8 Mar | 8pm | £26

The play described by audiences as the finest, funniest, most heart-breaking piece of theatre they’ve ever seen. From London’s West End where every performance received a huge standing ovation comes the incredible story of middle-aged homeless alcoholic, Myra McLaughlin living rough on the streets of Dublin. As she begs from passers-by at her regular spot by Ha’penny Bridge, Myra recreates her rollercoaster backstory. Playing all the larger-than-life Dublin characters (male and female), acting out all the hilarious/tragic/heartbreaking events in her life that have taken her to this pitiful state. Seen by over 150,000 theatregoers in Ireland, UK, USA and Canada. You’ll laugh with Myra. You’ll cry with Myra. What you’ll never do is forget Myra.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

WOMEN IN CULTURE

Sat 8 Mar | 2pm | FREE (Pre-booking essential)

Join us in celebrating International Women’s Day 2025 with an empowering ‘Women in Culture’ talk, featuring inspiring women who have carved out successful careers in the arts.

This event will feature a diverse panel of artists, creators, and cultural leaders who will share their journeys; highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome, the accomplishments they have achieved, and the unique perspectives they bring to the arts world.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into what it means to thrive as a woman in the creative industries and how these trailblazers are shaping the future of the arts. The panellists will also offer practical advice for encouraging aspiring women and young girls wishing to pursue fulfilling paths in the arts industry.

Whether you’re already involved in the arts or simply passionate about supporting women in creative spaces, this event is a celebration of talent, resilience, and the power of women lifting each other up in the cultural sphere.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

ARMAGH CATHEDRALS PARTNERSHIP PRESENTS

CATHEDRALS PARTNERSHIP 2025

Tues 11 Mar | 7.30pm | Admission Free, but tickets must be obtained in advance

The Armagh Cathedral Partnership was established between the two Cathedrals in Armagh as an expression of their common life in Christ. In this special evening, St Patrick’s Church of Ireland and St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedrals welcome you to share ideas and hear their thoughts about the saint who guides them in service.

This event will feature keynote speakers and music will be provided by local school choirs. Light refreshments will be served afterwards.

DAVID HULL PROMOTIONS PRESENTS

GIVE MY HEAD PEACE H

Wed 12 - Thurs 13 Mar 8pm | £27.50

After numerous sell-out tours across Northern Ireland last year, the Give My Head Peace team return to the stage with a brandnew live show for 2025.

You will meet your favourite characters from Ulster’s bestloved dysfunctional family. Da, Cal, Ma, Dympna, Billy the Peeler, Pastor Begbie and Sandy the Kneebreakers barman.

There will be up-to-the-minute satire, top class stand-up from Tim McGarry, silly plots and the occasional song. Give My Head Peace is a firm favourite for all the family. It’s a night of riotous fun with guaranteed laughs. Book early to avoid disappointment.

HOME OF ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL LIVE CONCERT

Fri 14 Mar | 6.30pm | £10

Armagh is set to rock on St Patrick’s weekend, with a superb and totally live open-air concert featuring an electrifying line-up.

Cavan band, The High Stool Prophets will make a welcome return to Armagh after blazing a trail on the Irish folk scene with a string of sold-out shows, TV appearances and new music releases.

Pure Blarney is a vibrant Irish folk and traditional band featuring a dynamic mix of male and female vocals, alongside acoustic, electric, and bass guitars, fiddle, whistles, pipes, and drums. Their diverse line-up creates a rich, full sound that brings both original compositions and lively renditions of traditional and contemporary songs to life. With high-energy instrumentals and no filler, Pure Blarney guarantees unforgettable nights filled with music and memories.

THE QUIET MAN

(Dementia Friendly Screening)

Motivated by their viral videos in Ireland’s most beautiful spots on Instagram, Reillys have now begun to release their music one single at a time. The Belfast based folk band were selected to play at Electric Picnic in just their first year and have gone on to play hundreds of gigs.

Please note that this is an outdoor concert and does not take place in The Market Place Theatre. Tickets available at visitarmagh.com

Thurs 13 Mar | 11am | £5 (includes tea, coffee & biscuits)

Dir: John Ford | 1952 | 129 Mins | Certificate U

John Ford’s The Quiet Man celebrates one of Hollywood’s most romantic and enduring epics, winner of two Oscars®, including Best Director. The first American feature to be filmed in Ireland’s picturesque countryside, Ford richly imbued this masterpiece with his love of Ireland and its people.

Featuring the wonderful partnership of John Wayne as American Sean Thornton and Maureen O’Hara as the feisty Mary Kate Danaher alongside a fabulous cast of quirky supporting characters, The Quiet Man never ceases to raise a laugh and a tear.

Our dementia friendly screenings are open to all, but have been tailored with care, attention and insight to be accessible for people living with dementia. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

SHINE LTD PRESENTS

101 DALMATIANS

(Dog Friendly Screening)

Sat 15 Mar | 11am | £5 (Furry Friends Free)

Dir: Stephen Herek | 1996 99 Mins | Certificate U

Roger (Jeff Daniels) and Anita (Joely Richardson) meet and fall in love whilst out walking their dogs, Pongo and Perdy.

They are married, and their hounds also prove compatible, producing a litter of fifteen black and white puppies. However, Anita’s boss, fashion designer Cruella DeVil (Glenn Close), wants to turn the puppies into a coat. To this end she sends her henchmen Jasper (Hugh Laurie) and Horace (Mark Williams) to kidnap the tiny canines.

There is a limited number of dogs that we can facilitate, and we can only permit one dog per adult attending. We will provide bowls of water, blankets to cover seats or for lying on the floor. We request that dogs remain on leads throughout the duration of the film - feel free to bring them outside at any point. Please bring any toys that may make your dog more comfortable, and we kindly ask that owners clean up after their dogs if they create a mess, with the cleaning products provided.

This event will take place in our studio theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout. Please note that the sound levels for the film will be lowered to allow for our canine audience!

JIGJAZZ

Sun 16 Mar

7pm | £22.50

JigJAZZ is a new contemporary Irish dance show featuring world champion Irish dancers.

Combining traditional Irish dance with elements of tap and jazz, this high energy masterpiece is accompanied by superior singers and musicians to make it an enjoyable and memorable night.

DAVID HULL PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

Tues 18 Mar | 8pm | £30

International recording artists Foster & Allen look forward to celebrating an amazing milestone of 50 years in the music business with a concert tour of Northern Ireland.

The Foster & Allen 50 Years of Hits Concert will be packed full of all the songs that made them famous all over the world. They will be performing all their hit singles like ‘Bunch of Thyme’, ‘Old Flames’, ‘Maggie’, ‘After All These Years’, ‘We Owe It All to You’, ‘I Will Love You All My Life’, ‘Just For Old Times Sake’, as well as medleys of songs from their chart-topping albums and DVDs. They will also be performing some of their new recordings from their latest album ‘We’ll Meet Again’.

Foster & Allen aren’t showing any signs of slowing down and their recording and touring commitments prove how popular they remain for their fans who like to hear them at home and see them in a live experience.

THURSDAYS

WITH ELVIS BY MARTIN LYNCH

Thurs 20 Mar | 8pm | £22.50

Single mother Lana struggles with the cost of living, inflation and the rising price of Prosecco.

Unable to afford a night out, every Thursday she dresses up to have a drink alone in her kitchen and sings the songs of the black American girl singers from the 1950’s and 60’s.

One night Elvis appears - and returns every Thursday. Is this apparition real, imagined or an impersonator sent by her Elvis-obsessed father?

Filled with the great songs of Aretha, The Ronettes, The Crystals, Etta James and of course Elvis sings all his greatest hits. This show will have the place rocking!

This performance contains strong language. Recommended for age 15+

SPECIAL EYE ENTERTAINMENTS PRESENTS

JASON BYRNE: NO SHOW

Fri 21 Mar | 8pm | £24

In 1935 Erwin Schrodinger placed comedian Jason Byrne in a venue with an audience and closed the doors. Was there a show or NO SHOW? For those outside without tickets there was simultaneously a show and NO SHOW.

Don’t be outside. Get a ticket and watch the master of comic creativity and audience interaction create a show from NO SHOW.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

THE OUTRIGHT KING OF LIVE COMEDY THE TIMES

THERE

IS NOBODY ELSE ON THE PLANET WHO MAKES ME LAUGH LIKE THAT. YOUR WORLD WILL BE A BETTER PLACE AFTER

SEEING JASON LIVE’ THE NEWCASTLE CHRONICLE

Fri 21 Mar | 8pm | £18

The award-winning Celtic Soul are returning to The Market Place with their definitive tribute to Van Morrison. Following a sell-out performance at Belfast’s Ulster Hall in 2019 they went on to receive an IMRO Gold Award for their performance in Radio Ulster’s Astral Weeks special. They continue to receive critical acclaim from devout Vanatics wherever they perform and have continued their success with shows across Ireland. With years of playing in

AS CLOSE AS YOU CAN GET... EVEN THE MAN APPROVES. NOEL CASEY, DUBLIN CITY FM

blues, folk, trad and jazz bands, the seven-piece band have the ingredients to deliver Van’s music authentically. Expect to hear songs from right across Van’s musical history including the big hits as well as stand out album tracks. Let Celtic Soul take you on a journey through the songbook of our very own musical legend!

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaretstyle seating layout.

THE PEOPLE’S THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS

STORY TIME

BEAUTIFUL STORYTELLING WITH JUST THE RIGHT MIX OF SITTING LISTENING AND JOINING IN THE BRISTOL POST

Sat 22 Mar | 2pm | £10

Do your family love books and stories and all the incredible places you can go with your imagination? Then you’re in for a treat, as popular children’s author Steven Lee joins us to bring some of his best loved books to life with a magical mixture of music, puppetry and heartwarming, giggle making, interactive fun.

Every performance will be a little bit different as Steven recreates tales from his adorable collection of best-selling books including ‘Don’t Dribble On The Dragon’, ‘I Spy With My Little Eye’ and ‘How The Koala Learnt To Hug’. He might even tell a brand-new story just for you! To make your day even more special, Steven will meet your little ones after the performance for photos and to sign their books which you can either bring with you or pick up in the theatre after the show.

Suitable for ages 3-7 years. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

A GREAT BAND, SUPERB INTERPRETERS OF VAN’S BACK CATALOGUE

RALPH MCLEAN, BBC

THOROUGHLY ENTERTAINING, LEE HOLDS THE AUDIENCE IN PALM OF HIS HAND THE

CORNISHMAN

PETER CORRY PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSICALS

Sat 22 Mar | 8pm | £27.50

Experience the magic of musical theatre with Peter Corry’s ‘Thank You For The Musicals.’ Be swept away by stunning performances and beautiful music from the likes of ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Hamilton’, ‘Six’, ‘Carousel’, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, ‘Come From Away’, ‘Grease’, ‘Moulin Rouge’, ‘Mamma Mia’ and ‘Les Misérables’.

Peter and his company of brilliant singers pay tribute to some of the best shows around. A must for lovers of the musicals.

THE BARKING DOG THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS

TEDDY’S BEST FRIEND

Wed 26 Mar | 10am | £6 with teachers free

Eddy the Teddy and Sammy Ragdoll are best of friends. However, they have a silly argument and Eddy decides he’ll go and get a new best friend.

Eddy discovers that finding a new best friend isn’t so easy. Everyone he meets has their bad points as well as good. Of course no one matches up to Sammy. Sammy is missing Eddy too so by the

end of the show they are best friends again. The show uses many elements of theatre, mime, puppetry and songs to join in with. It’s a perfect introduction to live entertainment for children who’ve never been to a show before, and a welcome return for Eddy the Teddy’s young fans.

Suitable for children aged 6 years and under.

BUILDING BRIDGES COMMUNITY

ARTS THEATRE PRESENTS

DISNEY’S

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST H

Thurs 27 - Sat 29 Mar | 7.30pm 2pm Matinee (Sat only) | £16

Following their incredible run of ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Building Bridges Community Arts Theatre returns with a timeless classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, featuring the songs and characters from the Disney movie we all know and love.

In this enchanting tale, a selfish prince is transformed into a fearsome beast by a vengeful enchantress. To break the curse, he must find true love before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose or be doomed to spend life as a beast forever. When Belle, a headstrong young woman, stumbles upon the beast’s castle, she encounters a host of unforgettable characters and a chance to lift the spell. But can Belle see beyond the beast’s terrifying exterior? Will she choose to love him, or will she condemn the castle and its inhabitants to a life of despair?  For who could ever learn to love a beast?

CITY OF ARMAGH FESTIVAL OF SPEECH & DRAMA 2025 H

Mon 31 Mar - Fri 4 Apr | Fri Gala Presentation 7pm

More than one thousand competitors will take part in the Annual Speech and Drama Festival during this week. Now in its 26th year, the Festival has gone from strength to strength and this year promises to be better again.

Friday’s Gala Presentation of Special Awards and Prizes is an opportunity to enjoy highlights from the many competitions held during Festival week and to see the fantastic local talent.

DAVID HULL PROMOTIONS PRESENTS

FLASH HARRY H

Sat 5 Apr | 8pm | £24

Flash Harry presents a show that embraces the very essence of Queen’s live performances. Audiences will see the band rocking Queen’s greatest hits from ‘Radio Gaga’, to ‘We Are The Champions’, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and everything in between. Quite simply it’s live music entertainment at its best.

CONAL GALLEN: BRACE YOURSELF

Thurs 3 - Fri 4 Apr 8pm | £25

Multi-award-winning Irish comedian Conal Gallen is back on tour this year with his hilarious oneman stand-up show.

Conal is well known for his hilarious humour and has been entertaining audiences worldwide for over 30 years.

He’s even had the pleasure of performing in front of the Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, and several other well-known English pubs! Don’t miss your chance to see the master of comedy at work as Conal Gallen brings his Funny Business to the stage this year.

Book your seats now to secure your place at a night filled with unforgettable laughter.

The band Flash Harry has been celebrating the music of Queen for over 32 years! To carve out a career of that length and sell more tickets now than at any time in their history, proves that this band can deliver.

Their track record speaks volumes for the quality of the performances and the sheer entertainment value of their show.

After an amazing non-stop 32 years delivering unforgettable shows in top notch venues around the world, the reason for Flash Harry’s success is simple, it’s a show of hit after hit, delivered with everything you could want from a live performance: energy, enthusiasm, talent, passion and pure showmanship. The music of Queen is universal in its appeal and has been the soundtrack of the last 50 years. Rarely will a show reach across generations and deliver as much as Flash Harry - a celebration of the magic of Queen.

THESE GUYS CAN PLAY!

MOVING ON MUSIC PRESENTS

QUATUOR BÉLA

Sat 5 Apr | 8pm | £15

£13 (conc) | £8 (students)

Founded in 2006 by four musicians from the National Higher Conservatory of Music of Lyon and Paris, the Béla Quartet is committed to championing new compositions and exploring the relationship between composers and performers.

Quatuor Béla are one of France’s leading string quartets. Guided by the personality and work of Béla Bartok, the quartet play and deliver programmes with sincere conviction. Quatuor Béla have become one of the leading European quartets working with contemporary composers such as Garth Knox, Kaija Saariaho and Francesca Verunelli.

This tour of NI will feature significant works of the classical repertoire with Beethoven’s 7th ‘Razumovsky’ Quartet, Fauré’s only string quartet and his final composition, alongside three new pieces by NI composers Simon Mawhinney, Piers Hellawell and Pedro Rebelo.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

THE ABANDON WITH WHICH THE BÉLA’S DIG INTO THEIR STRINGS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE FIRST QUARTET - JUST LISTEN TO THEM, GO! GRAMOPHONE

BANBRIDGE MUSICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS

SISTER ACT H

Wed 9 - Sat 12 Apr | 7.30pm 2.30pm Matinee (Sat only)

£20 | £18 (Wed only)

Following the success of their recent shows, ‘Oklahoma’ and ‘Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’, Banbridge Musical Society presents ‘Sister Act’. When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent!

breathes new life into the church and community but in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.

Filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a truly moving story, Sister Act will leave audiences breathless. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to REJOICE!

Presented by one of Northern Ireland’s leading amateur theatre groups. Music by Alan Menken | Lyrics by Glenn Slater | Book by Cheri Steinkellner & Bill Steinkellner | Additional Book Material Douglas Carter Beane

Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris

Based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture “Sister Act” written by Joseph Howard. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows.co.uk

NYPA MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

SHREK H

Tues 15 - Sat 19 Apr | 7.30pm 2.30pm matinee (Sat only) £18 | £16 (conc)

“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek…” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.

Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero.

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

DECLAN NERNEY IN CONCERT

Thurs 24 Apr | 8pm | £25

Luckily, there’s one on hand... and his name is Shrek. Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Awardwinning fairy tale adventure featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Caroline or Change) and a side-splitting book by David LindsayAbaire.

Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears.

Presented by one of Northern Ireland’s leading amateur theatre groups.

Declan was born in the heart of Ireland in Drumlish, Co Longford, at a unique period of time in the music scene worldwide.

A revolution in rock and pop brought us The Beatles, Elvis, and the Rolling Stones, while here in Ireland the magnificent showband boom was about to explode. A young man growing up at that time, Declan was being heavily influenced by these greats and indeed was getting the rare opportunity to see most of the top showbands appear in his hometown. He would cajole his mother into seeing Joe Dolan, Big Tom, Philomena Begley, The Capital Showband, and many more perform. From his vantage point close to the stage, he would absorb every move made by the guitarist in the bands, watching his fingers slide along the strings, hoping that one day he might be up there performing just like Dan O’Hara or Seamus McMahon.

Declan has gone on to have a super career that has spanned over four decades at the top of Irish Country Music winning many accolades along the way and scoring countless hits with his catalogue of trademark songs.

Join Declan and his live band with special guests John McNicholl and Hugo Duncan for a nostalgic night of music, song and laughter on the 2025 ‘Round and Round’ concert tour.

OLDSHORE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

THE ILLEGALS & NIAMH KAVANAGH H

Fri 25 Apr | 8pm | £24

It’s hard to believe that it is 50 years since the world first heard two of the greatest rock albums of all time; ‘One of These Nights’ by the Eagles and the eponymous ‘Fleetwood Mac’ which marked the debut of Stevie Nicks and Lindsay Buckingham.

For 2025, The Illegals are putting a new show on the road to celebrate these two ground-shaking music events. Led by Niamh Kavanagh, she of the mesmerizing voice and mischievous spirit, The Illegals will take you on an unforgettable journey of soulful harmonies, exciting riffs, blistering guitars and memorable songs.

SIMPLY STUNNING

NIAMH IS OUTSTANDING THE ROLLSROYCE OF IRISH ROCK RTE

The best of two legendary bands in one night? It’s almost too good to be true. Songs like, ‘One Of These Nights’, ‘Rhiannon’, ‘Lyin’ Eyes’, ‘Say That You Love Me’, ‘Take It To The Limit’, ‘Landslide’, and many others, all in celebration of two of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Aside from the headline albums the show consists of many other Eagles and Fleetwood Mac hits, as well as some of the solo work from individual members and other ‘connected’ artists.

THE GOONIES (RELAXED SCREENING)

Sat 26 Apr | 11am | £5

Dir: Richard Donner | 1985

108 Mins | Certificate 12A

An epic children’s adventure of subterranean caverns, sunken galleons and a fortune in lost pirate treasure waiting to be found by a group of friends known as the Goonies. With brothers Mikey (Sean Astin) and Brand’s (Josh Brolin) house slated for demolition by greedy land developers, the boys decide their only hope lies in finding a long-lost treasure. They uncover a treasure map and with their friends descend to a subterranean sea and an abandoned galleon in this funfilled, fast-paced adventure.

Relaxed screenings are open to everyone but may benefit individuals with autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties or sensory and communication difficulties or those who may benefit from a more relaxed environment.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

EIMÉAR CREALEY: AN EVENING OF SONG H

Sat 26 Apr | 8pm | £20

Eiméar Crealey is a multi-faceted performer, distinguished as a singer, actor and musician from Maghery, County Armagh. After graduating from the Royal Academy of Music London, Eiméar became a member of renowned Irish Ensemble ‘Celtic Angels’, with whom she toured the USA.

More recently, Eiméar toured the UK with Prestige Production’s musical ‘Carole: The Music of Carole King’, where she played the lead female role in various illustrious venues. Eiméar has also released her own solo studio album ‘A Heart at Home’ which includes well-loved songs with a modern edge such as ‘Caledonia’ and ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’, as well as popular classics like Joni Mitchell’s ‘Both Sides Now’.

‘Eiméar Crealey: An Evening of Song’ is a night of musical storytelling, combining an exciting blend of traditional and contemporary Irish folk songs, musical theatre and classical pieces, as well as elements of country and pop. There is truly something for everyone!

Eiméar will be supported by an ensemble of highly acclaimed young Irish musicians and special guests. Experience the magic of Eiméar’s music as she continues to captivate audiences with her ethereal voice, compelling performances, and unwavering dedication to the art of storytelling through music.

MID

ARMAGH COMMUNITY NETWORK PRESENTS

A HAMELY SCOTTISH GATHERING H

Fri 2 May | 7.30pm | £12.50

Presented by Mid Armagh Community Network, appearing on stage will be Scottish Highland Dancers, Fiddle Orchestra, accordions, drama and pipes in a celebration of our Ulster Scots cultural legacy.

Sat 3 May | 8pm | £18

Gearóid Farrelly follows his mammoth Glamour Hammer tour with a hilarious new stand-up show touching on the many, many, MANY things that make his blood boil.

GLEN THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS

DYING TO MEET YOU H

Sat 3 May | 8pm | £18

Richard and Barbara are a happily married couple whose lives are a bit humdrum now that their two children have left home.

Their neighbours Tom and Beryl are on good terms with them and the trouble starts when Tom suggests to Richard a way of making money by renting out their spare room to someone. This he does (without telling his wife), to a young man who happens to be an undertaker.

Add to this mix an Inspector Of Taxes and a mysterious Italian uncle of Gina’s who has links with the Mafia and you have an uproarious state of affairs with the possibility of total bedlam, with all trying to come to terms with living with an undertaker and being in danger from the Mafia whilst avoiding being charged more tax for renting out a room as extra income.

Presented by one of Ireland’s leading amateur theatre groups.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

Barbara on the other hand does something similar by renting the other room to a young Italian girl with little English. Richard does his best to hide the fact that the young man is an undertaker, which leads to all sorts of problems as the young girl, Gina, gets friendly with the undertaker, Clive.

RALPH MCTELL: TIME DRIFT OF THE ROAD

Wed 7 May | 8pm | £30

Legendary British singer-songwriter

Ralph McTell embarks on his most extensive tour of Ireland to date. As a stalwart of the folk scene for over five decades, McTell’s music continues to resonate with fans of all generations.

With 2025 marking Ralph’s 80th year, this tour represents a milestone not just in his life, but in his extraordinary career. Composer of the Ivor Novello award winning, international hit song ‘Streets of London’, McTell is still passionate about performing and views this tour as a celebration of longevity, artistry, and the continued love for live music.

Reflecting on his upcoming dates, Ralph says, “I have been doing shows in Ireland for many years. Firstly, in Belfast in 1969 and later in Dublin, eventually getting around the whole country, but it has taken a while to do a national tour.

In 2025, I’ll be undertaking my biggest and most comprehensive set of dates around Ireland ever. My 2023 tour was hugely enjoyable, and 2025 is going to be a real celebration. I’m looking forward to it already.”

‘Time Drift of the Road’ promises to be a moving celebration of both life and song.

BARDIC THEATRE PRESENTS

THE SNAPPER

Fri 9 May | 8pm | £18 | £15 (conc)

Bardic Theatre is proud to present the Northern Ireland premiere of Roddy Doyle’s timeless comedy, ‘The Snapper’. This hilarious and feel-good show follows the chaotic adventures of the Rabbitte family as Sharon Rabbitte’s unexpected pregnancy sets the whole neighbourhood buzzing with gossip. With Doyle’s signature wit and unforgettable characters, The Snapper is a laugh-out-loud celebration of family, love, and community.

Brought to you by the same creative team behind the sold-out 2024 production of Jez Butterworth’s ‘The Ferryman’, this promises to be another unmissable hit!

This production contains strong language and adult themes. Recommended for age 14+.

SINGIN’ I’M

Sat 10 May | 8pm | £25

A play exploring bigotry and ethnic identity, ‘Singin’ I’m No A Billy, He’s A Tim’ is a phenomenon in Scotland where it has sold out countless nationwide tours, been a sensation at the Edinburgh Festival and is now touring internationally.

Celtic vs Rangers, Catholic vs Protestant... When tribal factions clash, can reason ever prevail? What happens when, on the day of the Old Firm Match, you lock up a Celtic and Rangers fan in a cell together? Fireworks! And a weird kind of unity.

Written by Des Dillon and directed by Stephen Cafferty. With Scott Kyle (Outlander, Angels Share, Kajaki and Winner of Stage Award for Acting Excellence), Colin Little (River City, Fried, Gasping, The Secret Agent) and James Miller.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

SOUTH ARMAGH FOLK & TRAD TRIO

Sat 10 May | 8pm | £13.50

Singer-songwriter Briege Murphy is a native of The Ring of Gullion Valley, - an area rich in songs and storytelling. Her songs are often inspired by the surroundings of the beautiful hill country in which she was reared and still lives. Her songs ‘The Hills of South Armagh’ and ‘Cloghinne Winds’ amongst others, have been recorded by many artists across the globe. Briege has been described as ‘an Irish Nanci Griffiths’ by Living Tradition magazine.

Joanna Doran is a passionate, versatile musician, a respected and highly regarded violin / fiddle soloist and piano accompanist. She is a seasoned session musician, regularly performing on stage, or in the recording studio, across a variety of music genres. She

has been immersed in folk and traditional music since childhood, achieving various awards, and been particularly successful in classical achievement on solo violin.

Martha Guiney was brought up in the hallowed company of Irish folk and traditional music, beginning her education in music as a child, when her natural ability as a whistle or flute player was recognised. Martha has performed all over the world, delighting audiences with her unique style of playing and she was recently awarded the accolade of ‘Young BBC Musician of the Year’.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

SRC MUSIC PRESENTS

SHOWCASE 2025

H

Wed 14 May | 7pm | £5 or Free with Valid SRC Student ID

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music! Once again, the talented artists of the SRC Music Department will take to the stage to present their muchanticipated annual showcase.

Join us for an eclectic mix of performances, featuring new releases, original works, and a celebration of the incredible achievements from the past year. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or just looking for an inspiring evening out, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

Tickets available for sale through Southern Regional College.

SRC PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS THE

H

Thurs 15 May | 7pm | £5 or Free with Valid SRC Student ID

Get ready for a spectacular evening as the Performing Arts students present The Final Curtain Call - a thrilling theatrical production that brings together the finest moments of their year’s work. This captivating performance is a celebration of passion, creativity, and skill weaved together in a breathtaking show! Sit back, relax, and let the magic of theatre unfold before your eyes—this is a night you won’t want to miss!

Performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+. Tickets available for sale through Southern Regional College.

PADDY CULLIVAN PRESENTS

I CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S NOT IRELAND

Fri 16 May | 8pm | £15 | £13 (conc)

Join Paddy Cullivan on a hilariously insightful journey through the history of partition and the Ireland of the future.

Imagine this. It’s 2032. The people have spoken on both sides of the border and Ireland is a brand new 32-county country. There’s a new flag. A new anthem. There’s even a new capital! As Unionists holiday in the south, discovering the imperial joys of ‘Royal’ Dublin - southerners discover the ancient landscape of Ulster beyond the retail outlets of Newry and Titanic Belfast. Magical things happen when you create a new country - where EVERYTHING is on the table - and it’s exciting.

Leave all your preconceptions at the door. It’s not a United Ireland. It’s not an ‘agreed’ Ireland. It’s not ‘shared’ - nor is it ‘new’. It’s simply- ‘I can’t believe it’s not Ireland’! But first… we have to get there. Pushing optimism over despair, Paddy has created an uplifting vision of the future, a show that breaks down barriers and long-held perceptions. As fair to the unionist tradition as the nationalist, this show has enlightened and entertained people from East as well as West Belfast - and even Cork. An audiovisual spectacular full of song, comedy, incisive history and incredible futuristic imagery with the help of A.I., audiences who loved ‘The Murder of Michael Collins’ have all said the same thing about ‘I Can’t Believe it’s Not Ireland’ - they leave on a high.

GENTICORUM

Sat 17 May | 8pm | £15 £13 (conc) | £8 (students)

2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards ‘Ensemble of the Year’ Genticorum is among the most distinctive voices of Québécois traditional music.

Weaving intricate fiddle, flute and accordion lines, gorgeous vocal harmonies, subtle guitar textures and exhilarating

foot percussion, Genticorum have been gracing world stages for over twenty years, and in 2024 won the prestigious ‘Ensemble of the Year’ Canadian Folk Music award. At its root, this is social music, and audiences can’t help but feel the pleasure these three musicians get from playing together. With impeccable musicianship and infectious joie de vivre, Genticorum is bound to draw you in.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

AN INTOXICATING MIX OF FLUTE, FIDDLE, FEET, GUITAR AND THREEPART HARMONIES. THE INDEPENDENT

BRUISER THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS

MURDER FOR TWO

Sat 17 May | 8pm | £22.50 | £20 | £15 (Students)

HOTBUCKLE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS LITTLE

WOMEN

Wed 21 May | 8pm | £16 | £14 (conc)

This beloved classic novel by Louisa May Alcott is given a Hotbuckle make-over in a new adaptation by Adrian Preater.

The March sister’s journey from adolescence to adulthood is navigated through multi-role-playing characterisation and imaginative staging as Hotbuckle explore family, love, and

This is a murder mystery with a twist. Two actors play thirteen characters... with a piano. When famous novelist Arthur Whitney is found dead at his birthday party, it’s time to call in the detectives. The only

Enter Officer Marcus Moscowicz, a neighbourhood cop desperate to climb the ranks. With the clock ticking, it’s up to Marcus to solve the crime before the real detective arrives. Gloriously silly, devilishly clever and fantastically funny! The musical premiered at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre in 2011, winning the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best New Musical. In 2022, the musical’s setting was relocated to the UK by Barn Theatre, receiving outstanding reviews from audiences and critics alike.

the challenges of growing up. With a touch of the highly acclaimed Hotbuckle humour and fast-paced storytelling, 19th Century Massachusetts is brought to life as you’ve never experienced before!

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

ROMAN HOLIDAY

(DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SCREENING)

Thurs 22 May | 11am

£5 (includes tea, coffee & biscuits)

Dir: William Wyler | 1953 118 Mins | Certificate U

Nominated for a total of 10 Oscars®, including Best Picture, Roman Holiday is the story of a modern-day princess who, rebelling against the royal obligations, explores Rome on her own. She soon meets an American newspaperman (Gregory Peck) who pretends ignorance of her true identity, in the hopes of obtaining an exclusive story. Naturally, his plan falters as they inevitably fall in love.

Our dementia friendly screenings are open to all, but have been tailored with care, attention and insight to be accessible for people living with dementia.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

THE SUMMER COUNTRY SHOW

Thurs 22 May | 8pm | £26.50 H

Back by popular demand, The Summer Country Show returns to Armagh for another memorable night of toe-tapping magic!

This time it will feature six of Ireland’s top stars all in one impressive show that even Nashville would be proud of.

The bill includes the gentle giant of Country Music, Mick Flavin from Longford with his hit songs ‘The Old Schoolyard’ and ‘Home to Donegal’, the popular Derry singer, John McNicholl, the mighty man from Mayo, Gerry Guthrie, the energetic Laois man, Shawn Cuddy, the multitalented Stephen Smyth from Co. Down and the ever-popular truckers’ favourite, Boxcar Brian.

Each of the stars will perform their trademark hits in the company of Ireland’s top backing band Keltic Storm, making this a show you won’t want to miss!

FAIRcraft ARMAGH

A celebration of contemporary and traditional craft on display, craft demonstrations and handson experiences. Exhibitions, stalls, creative workshops, children’s arts and craft experiences, talks, music and entertainment.

Sat 24 May | 10.30am - 4.30pm

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh

FEATURING CRAFT STALLS | CRAFT DEMONSTRATIONS | CRAFT WORKSHOPS

There’s something for the whole family to enjoy at the Armagh Craft Fair this May as we celebrate 25 years of the arts at the Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre. Our Craft Fair ‘25’ will welcome the very best makers, designers and artists nationwide to share their amazing skills and hand-made craft products with you. Experience high quality craft stalls, traditional and contemporary craft demonstrations and hands on craft experiences for adults and children. Learn a new craft skill at one of the creative craft workshops for adults and children and there will be fantastic fun at the many FREE drop in craft and art experiences for kids.

ENJOY DELICIOUS COFFEE, REFRESHMENTS AND MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT THROUGHOUT THE DAY. COME AND JOIN US AT THE FAIR AND HELP US CELEBRATE A VERY SPECIAL YEAR.

LISA RICHARDS LTD PRESENTS

CHRIS

KENT: OFFLINE

Sat 24 May | 8pm | £20

Cork’s own Chris Kent returns with a brandnew show ‘Offline’. He tries to give up the internet and navigate life without asking his phone what to eat, where to go or how to get home.

He longs for a simpler time of playing ‘Snake’ and constructing emojis himself. Now that he has hit 40 years of age, he wonders if he can ever go back to thinking for himself. Join him on a journey that will either make him or break him.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+

CAREFREE COMEDIC BULLSEYE

DUBLINER MAGAZINE

Join an all-star cast of musicians and singers including the brilliant Keltic Storm band, the hilarious Gary Gamble, the fiddling maestro Ritchie Remo, the superb vocalist Elaine Boyle and renowned Belfast busker John Garrity for the ultimate feel good hooley that is guaranteed to have you hand clapping, singing and partying all night long. Take a rip-roaring trip through the decades of hugely popular and much-loved highenergy hits and ballads from household names like The Pogues, The Saw Doctors, The Fureys, The Tumbling Paddies, The Proclaimers, The Waterboys, Christy Moore, The Horslips, Luke Kelly and many more.

The show will also feature a highly acclaimed comedy section and a surprise visit from Donegal’s favourite son which will have your sides bursting with laughter! Add to all that a few high energy reels and polkas coupled with state-of-the-art sound, lighting and visuals, if it’s a good night out you’re after then this is the ultimate show for you!

BOLT

(Dog Friendly Screening)

Sat 31 May | 11am | £5

Dir: Chris Williams | 2008

96 Mins | Certificate PG

Feel-good Disney adventure following the adventures of Bolt, canine star of a Hollywood TV show, who has to find his way home after accidentally getting lost.

Having never left the sanctuary of his studio set, action TV star and German Shepherd, Bolt (voice of John Travolta), actually believes he possesses the superpowers of his show’s fictional character. He receives a rude awakening when, after being accidentally shipped from Hollywood to New York, he has to figure out a way to get home.

There is a limited number of dogs that we can facilitate, and we can only permit one dog per adult attending. We will provide bowls of water, blankets to cover seats or for lying on the floor. We request that dogs remain on leads throughout the duration of the film - feel free to bring them outside at any point. Please bring any toys that may make your dog more comfortable, and we kindly ask that owners clean up after their dogs if they create a mess, with the cleaning products provided.

This event will take place in our studio theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout. Please note that the sound levels for the film will be lowered to allow for our canine audience!

CATTLE PRODUCTIONS LTD PRESENTS

STEPTOE & SON: LIVE

Sat 31 May | 8pm | £18

You wouldn’t think it was possible for this ‘rag and boning’ duo to still be at it after all this time, but here they are!

Albert is still a dirty old man and Harold is as pretentious as ever! Come and join Steptoe & Son for all the hilarious conflict that our four classic episodes have to offer!

See your favourite moments from the smash hit BBC television series, being performed for you live on stage - just make sure you don’t step in a present from Hercules the horse on your way in...

WORKSHOPS

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR ADULT AND CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS

Enrolment closes seven days prior to workshop date. Spring season workshops are suitable for ages 16+. Workshops are designed for people coming to a subject for the first time or for those with a casual or leisure interest. Workshops are suitable for wheelchair users. Breaks and lunch breaks for full day courses are arranged by the tutor on the morning of the workshop.

There are no catering services available at the Market Place Theatre. Participants should bring their own lunch or avail of the many cafés, restaurants and shops close to the venue. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided in the workshop room free of charge throughout the workshop. Children attending workshops should bring a drink and small snack.

Further information on all workshops available on the website workshop pages.

HOLIDAY SPANISH

FOR IMPROVERS

Sat 11 Jan - 15 Feb (6-week course) 10am - 12pm | £55.00

This Spanish class, led by native speaker Maria Lema Moreira, is designed for those with basic knowledge of the language. It focuses on improving conversational skills through role-play and interactive practice in a relaxed setting.

Participants will gain confidence in real-life scenarios like ordering food, shopping, and booking accommodation, while refining grammar and expanding vocabulary. Ideal for anyone looking to enhance their Spanish in a fun, social environment.

Max No: 12 | Tutor: Maria Lema Moreira

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU | NATURAL SOAP MAKING

Sat 11 Jan | 10am - 12.30pm | £25

Pamela Mawhinney and Irene Gourley from Naturally Soap will teach the traditional cold process method of soap making using natural ingredients and essential oils. Participants will create eco-friendly, spring-scented soaps perfect for gifts or home use. The workshop also covers the health benefits of natural hygiene and cosmetic products, with skills that can be applied to making soap at home.

All materials will be provided, however, attendees must bring their own apron, disposable gloves, and a small towel and wear long sleeves and full shoes.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 18+ | Tutors: Pamela Mawhinney & Irene Gourley (Naturally Soap)

SILVER SMITHINGSILVER STACKING RINGS WITH SEMIPRECIOUS STONES

Sat 18 Jan | 10am - 4pm | £55

Spend a day under the guidance of Goldsmith Diane Lyness as you make a pair of silver stacking rings. Each participant will be taught traditional jewellery making techniques such as piercing, soldering, shaping, texturing and polishing to create a beautiful pair of rings to take home. Personalise and add colour to your ring by adding one or two semiprecious stones.

All you need to bring is an apron and bundles of enthusiasm!

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Diane Lyness (Goldsmith)

FUSED GLASS HANDKERCHIEF VASE

Sat 18 Jan | 10am - 1pm | £50

In this beginner’s class, participants will create a unique handkerchief vase under the guidance of fused glass artist Sarah Walsh. The workshop covers the basics of glass cutting and using colourful frits to design a 25cm x 25cm glass panel, which will be fired and shaped into a contemporary vase. Sarah will demonstrate glass-cutting tools and teach safety techniques. Participants can create their own unique landscape and are encouraged to bring images for inspiration.

All tools and safety equipment provided. Please wear suitable clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes. Finished works will be taken back to Sarah’s studio for firing, before being returned to the venue for collection.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Sarah Walsh

NATURAL CLEANING, GET READY FOR SPRING

Thurs 23 Jan | 7pm - 9pm | £45

Before you reach for chemical-laden cleaning supplies this Spring, consider reducing toxins in your home. Join Sharron to learn about the harmful chemicals found in common cleaning products and discover eco-friendly alternatives. You’ll make three effective cleaning products to take home: an anti-bacterial cleaner, citrus toilet fizz bombs, and a laundry booster. Sharron will also share tips on reducing toxins in your cleaning routine and demonstrate how to make natural wood polish, scouring powder, drawer fresheners, and citrus vinegar cleaner.

All ingredients are supplied, and you will be given a free copy of Sharron’s Natural Cleaning E-book worth £10.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Sharron McHugh (Molly and Me)

THAI NOODLES

Thurs 23 Jan | 7pm - 9pm | £25

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore authentic Thai noodle dishes, including stir-fries and soups. Learn various Thai cooking techniques and how to balance the key flavours of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. The class covers essential ingredients and noodle preparation, helping you master stir-frying for perfect texture and taste.

You will taste and eat the food you have made as part of the workshop experience. All ingredients supplied. Please bring an apron and take-home food containers. Please notify the tutor of any allergies prior to attending the course. Inform Box Office at time of booking to receive tutor email address.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Thai Food NI

LOOM WOVEN TABLE MAT

Sat 25 Jan | 10am - 4pm | £50

LINO PRINTING

Sat 25 Jan | 10am - 1pm | £23

In this beginner’s lino print class, visual artist Hazel Boland will teach participants how to use lino cutting tools and techniques to carve their own designs. Working from personal or supplied imagery, you’ll learn to create depth and pattern through positive and negative space for detailed prints. Designs will be inked and transferred onto linen and plywood, resulting in a unique series of original artwork.

All art materials supplied; however, participants should bring an apron or old shirt and any imagery of choice to work from.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor Hazel Boland

Contemporary homeware designer and weaver Karolina hosts a one-day weaving workshop, introducing the foundation skills of tapestry weaving on an individual loom. Participants will create a contemporary textile table centrepiece, learning techniques like plain weave, rya knotting, and sumak.

The workshop encourages experimentation with patterns, texture, colour, and composition for creative expression. All materials will be provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Karoline Lisek (Little Tangle)

OVER 40’S MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS

Thurs 30 Jan | 7pm - 9pm | £28

This hands-on make-up workshop helps participants gain confidence in applying make-up and selecting the right products for their skin and age. The class covers flawless skin, face and eye shapes, choosing the correct foundation, and product placement. Participants will follow a step-by-step guide to create a natural day look.

Please bring your own make-up and a small freestanding mirror to the workshop.

Max No: 12 | 40+ | Tutor: Stacey Kilpatrick (S.A.K. Make-up)

FUSED GLASS HEART SHAPED BOWL

Sat 1 Feb | 10am - 3pm | £55

WAVE PAINTING IN ACRYLICS

Thurs 30 Jan | 6pm - 9pm | £30

Create your very own slice of the wild Atlantic using acrylics on canvas. This class covers brush techniques, colour mixing, and balancing to capture the movement of waves and the beauty of the ocean. Participants will explore vibrant colour palettes, making this a fun and informal class suitable for both novices and experienced painters.

All materials supplied as well as the wave image. Please bring an apron/old shirt to protect your clothes!

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Michelle Wilson

Make a beautiful contemporary glass Heart Bowl using a wide variety of colours and glass products - from sheet glass, rods, powder frit (small pieces of glass) and even liquid glass with endless design and colour possibilities. Keith will demonstrate the tools required for glass cutting and how to work safely. Bowls will be fired at Keith’s studio and returned to the venue for collection. Bowl size approximately 20 x 20cm.

All tools and materials will be provided. Please wear suitable clothing and closed toe flat shoes.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Keith Sheppard (Glass Artistry)

BEGINNERS MODERN POINTED NIB CALLIGRAPHY

Sat 1 Feb | 10am - 12.30pm | £30

This introduction to modern calligraphy is suitable for complete beginners. You will learn how to use a pointed nib and ink, working through warm-up exercises to teach you the basics, practising letterforms and joining up letters. The workshop includes a talk on how to create your own modern calligraphy style and you’ll finish off by making your own calligraphy piece with the help of a unique template. A full kit is provided for you to take home.

Max No: 20 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: MaryClare Fitzgerald (Script Adventures)

OP ART HEARTS -

OPTICAL ILLUSION ART

Sat 8 Feb | 10am - 12pm | £12

Create a cool op art heart for this Valentine. We are going to sculpt a heart in paper and tape, making it leap out from the page, giving it a 3D effect. We will then draw and paint it in a pattern to create that sense of swelling or warping, typical for optical illusion art. But don’t be fooled, this art piece is sure to win any heart this Valentine’s Day!

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 7 - 13 years

Tutor: Lina Morgan (A Misty Kind of Blue)

MINI MUA

MASTERCLASS

Sat 8 Feb | 2pm - 4pm

£30 for two children pairing

Your aspiring Mini Make-up Artist and their model will be taught by professional, award winning Make-up Artist Stacey Kilpatrick. Stacey will guide her Mini MUAs to complete a beauty makeup on their model after watching her demonstration. They will learn about colour matching foundation, product placement, eyeshadow application, contouring, liner and lips. A fun yet educational hands-on workshop giving an introduction into the world of being a Make-up Artist. Each child will bring their own model/friend to work in pairs, plus their own make-up bag and brushes to use during the workshop.

Max No: 12 (Each MUA can bring one model) Suitable for 8-13 Years | Tutor: Stacey Kilpatrick (S.A.K MAKEUP)

TEXTILE PRINTING

Sat 8 Feb | 10am - 1pm | £24

Explore the art of fabric printing using natural items like pears, lemons, and leaves, alongside stencils and stamps to create your own one-of-a-kind quirky designed tea-towels or napkins on high quality linen. This hands-on, creative class will allow participants to experiment with fabric paint, creating vibrant custom designs to take home. All materials provided.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Tina McGleenan

CANDLE MAKING

Thurs 13 Feb | 6.30pm - 9pm | £45

Learn to make beautiful natural wax candles, melts, and tealights in this enjoyable evening of crafting. This introduction to the world of candle making will provide you with the opportunity to make and take home a large, scented soy wax wooden wick candle, soy wax botanical melts, soy wax tealights, and a hand-rolled tapered Beeswax candle. All materials, equipment and ingredients are provided.

No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

WOODTURNING FOR BEGINNERS

Fri 14 or Sat 15 Feb | 10am - 4pm | £65

Experience an introduction to the craft of woodturning with tutor Jim Kelly. This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and those with some woodturning experience. A lathe, a set of tools and safety equipment will be provided for use by each participant, to produce a range of completed wood turned pieces of work to take home. All materials & equipment provided. Participants should wear an overall/apron/old shirt to protect their clothes.

This workshop can host one wheelchair user or those who need to be seated. PLEASE INFORM THE BOX OFFICE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING IF YOU REQUIRE THIS FACILITY.

Max No: 6 | Tutor: Jim Kelly (Irish Wood Turners Guild - Ulster Chapter)

Max

Tutor: Sharron McHugh (Molly & Me)

SCULPT

& SHINE

SILVER CLAY PENDANT

Sat 15 Feb | 10am - 3pm | £40

An inspiring Silver Clay workshop where creativity meets craftsmanship! In this hands-on session, you’ll learn the art of working with precious metal clay to create a silver pendant. You will sculpt, texture, personalise and torch fire your piece, turning your vision into a unique piece of jewellery, placed on a sterling silver chain up to 22” long. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. All materials and equipment provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Tara Campbell

WHITEWORK EMBROIDERY

CERAMIC GARDEN FLOWERS

Thurs 20 & Thurs 27 Feb (2 wks) | 6pm - 9pm | £55

Create beautiful sculptural ceramic flowers for your garden or indoor planters perfect for springtime. On the first evening you’ll learn to roll slabs, adding texture and forming your flowers from clay. The artist will then fire the flowers, and the second evening will concentrate on decorating by adding oxides and beautiful glazes. Workshop includes all materials and firings. Please bring an old towel and an apron.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Carol Willey

Friday 21 Feb | 10am - 4pm | £35

Discover the timeless elegance of Whitework embroidery introducing participants to the delicate art of stitching white or natural-coloured thread on matching fabric. Practice various techniques, including surface embroidery, Hardanger, drawn thread, Mountmellick, and cutwork, to complete a small, frameable design. The workshop also highlights the mindful and stress-relieving benefits of needlework. All materials provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Nancy Moreland (Nifty Needles)

THE BOOK OF MY LIFE: FROM PROSE TO POETRY

Sat 22 Feb | 10am - 4pm | £23

Creativity is a way to connect us to the source of the life within our lives. This Creative Writing Workshop (prose and poetry) will guide you back to that source. Writing about familiar and universal themes, you will be inspired by your own experience to distill your deepest truths and memories to write your own book of life. You might craft a sentence into a rhyme, a paragraph into a stanza, a thought into a story. There will also be the opportunity to receive constructive feedback in a safe and friendly environment.

Max No: 12 | Suitable 16+

Tutor: Mary Montague

PICASSO & THE MARKET

PLACE THEATRE

Sat 1 Mar | 10am - 12pm | £12

The Market Place is turning 25 and we are going to celebrate by combining the love for theatre and art into creating our own box theatre. Taking inspiration from Picasso and his theatre pieces, we will be designing a stage and some players.

Working in layers of cardboard and paper, we are going to bring life to a blank shoebox with paint, decorations and imagination. Take your theatre home and continue adding your ideas for a playful set, filled with stories, creativity and play.

Max No: 12 | Age 7 - 13 years | Tutor: Lina Morgan (A Misty Kind of Blue)

CELEBRATION CUPCAKES FOR KIDS

Sat 1 Mar | 10am - 12pm | £15

Calling all star bakers and sweet treat lovers! It’s party time at the Market Place Theatre on 1st March. Celebrate our 25th birthday bash at this special celebration cupcake decorating workshop themed to glittery stars and music.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for age 8+

You’ll get hands on experience decorating a box of 12 cupcakes to take home. Learn to pipe buttercream like a pro and handle and colour using florist paste.

Colour and cut sugar paste to top your cupcakes for a domed finish then complete your creations by making rainbow, marbled and colourful stars and music notes from icing and fondant. All materials provided.

Tutor: Rosemary Hughes (Rosie’s Country Kitchen)

HAND STITCHED & DYED LEATHER SATCHEL

(2-DAY WORKSHOP)

Fri 7 & Sat 8 Mar | 10am - 4pm | £100

Learn to make a statement hand stitched and punched leather satchel in this two-day course under the guidance of textile artist and designer Enda Kenny. You will work with vegetable tanned leather and learn how to cut leather by hand, hand dye the leather to your chosen colour, use leather punches to create stitching holes and saddle stitch the satchel using waxed thread. For a beautiful, refined finish, you will seal the leather to make your satchel waterproof and add straps for the perfect fit. All materials included. Please wear old clothing or an apron to cover up, as we will be using leather dyes/pigments.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 18+

Tutor: Enda Kenny (Erincraft)

IMPROVERS MODERN CALLIGRAPHY

Sat 8 Mar | 10am - 4pm | £45

This workshop is suitable for anyone that has attended a beginners pointed nib workshop, or those with a basic understanding of modern calligraphy. You will learn how to develop your own unique modern calligraphy style and improve your overall technique. Working from these foundations we will focus on improving your calligraphy by exploring spacing, connections and proportions. You can then bring your own design to a favourite quotation.

A full kit is provided for you to take home.

Max No: 20 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: MaryClare Fitzgerald

HANGING GLASS LANDSCAPES

Sat 15 Mar | 10am - 1pm | £55

In this beginner’s class you will learn the basics of creating a glass panel, including glass cutting and using colourful frits. Each participant will make a 20cm x 10cm piece with hooks, which will then be fired and strung to create a colourful and unique artwork. Sarah will demonstrate the tools used for glass cutting and how to work safely.

Each participant will create their own unique landscape and you may wish to bring some images for inspiration. All materials provided. Please wear suitable clothing and flat, closedtoe shoes. Finished works will be taken back to Sarah’s studio for firing before being returned to the venue for collection.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for age 16+ | Tutor: Sarah Walsh

PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE TRANSFER TO TEXTILE AND WOOD

Sat 15 Mar | 10am- 1pm | £25

Photographer and visual artist Riona Kearns will guide participants in transferring their photographic images onto

NATURAL SKINCARE WORKSHOP

Thurs 20 Mar | 7pm - 9pm | £35

In this workshop, participants will learn to create natural skincare products at home, including an exfoliating face scrub, hydrating facial toner, skin serum, and homemade vapor rub. Led by Sharron, the session will cover harmful ingredients in mainstream skincare and the benefits of natural alternatives. Attendees will gain insights into the function of each ingredient, making it a great opportunity to adopt sustainable skincare practices while benefitting the environment.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor:

wood and fabric to create unique artworks. Riona will demonstrate how to revitalize old photos by adding colour through embroidery and painting techniques. Participants will also craft quirky frames using colourful wool and threads, resulting in transformed artworks in textile and wood by the end of the session. All materials supplied. Participants are asked to email the tutor two images of choice two weeks prior to the workshop for sizing. Tutor’s email will be available upon booking.

No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ |

MACRAMÉ SHELVES

Sat 22 Mar | 10am - 2pm | £45

Learn the basic techniques of macramé to create a unique contemporary shelf using a range of knotting techniques including half knot and square knot tying. Participants will be encouraged to express their individual style through their choice of colour scheme, favourite materials and composition to make their stylish home decoration. Please bring your own medium size ceramic plates or wooden boards to use as part of your projectcircular/rounded shapes are required.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Karolina Lisek (Little Tangle)

Max

Tutor: Riona Kearns

Sharron McHugh (Molly & Me)

SPRINGTIME DUO INKTENSE & REDWORK

Sat 22 Mar | 10am - 4pm | £30 per person

This creative full day workshop on Inktense colouring and Redwork embroidery is perfect for any coupling to celebrate the coming of spring. Each pair will work on a beautiful spring-themed quote, creating two complementary designs that fit perfectly in a duo free-standing frame.

All materials are provided in a shared kit between each pair which includes perle cotton fabric, design template, handouts, embroidery hoop x 2, needle x 2, threads, use of Inktense pencils and setting liquid and duo free standing picture frame.

Max No: 6 pairs | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Nancy Moreland (Nifty Needles)

OVER 40’S MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS

Thurs 27 Mar | 7pm - 9pm | £28

This hands-on make-up workshop helps participants gain confidence in applying make-up and selecting the right products for their skin and age. The class covers flawless skin, face and eye shapes, choosing the correct foundation, and product placement. Participants will follow a step-by-step guide to create a natural day look. Please bring your own make-up and a small free-standing mirror to the workshop.

MOTHER’S DAY FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

Thurs 27 Mar | 7pm - 9pm | £50

Join expert florist Romaine Hodgen for a hands-on Mother’s Day floral arrangement workshop, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of floral design, including colour theory, balance, and texture. Romaine will teach essential techniques such as proper stem cutting, floral conditioning, and creating structure with floral foam or hand-tied methods. Participants will also receive tips on selecting seasonal flowers and incorporating greenery. By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a stunning custom floral arrangement and new skills to create professional-level designs for any occasion. Materials supplied though participants should provide their own secateurs.

Max No: 20 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Romaine Hodgen (Flowerworks)

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 40+ | Tutor: Stacey Kilpatrick (S.A.K. Make-up)

CERAMIC BUTTER DISH

Sat 29 Mar | 10am - 1pm | £45

Make and design your own unique hand-built butter dish, complete with impressed designs and hand painted colours on a beautiful cream clay body. Tutor Andrea will take you step-by-step through the process of rolling, shaping and decorating your butter dish using a range of clay tools and stamps to build your design. Once you’ve decorated your dish you will apply underglaze colour directly to the clay. Your completed dish will be taken back to Andrea’s studio to dry, glaze and double fire in the kiln. Ceramics will be returned to the venue approximately two weeks later. All materials are supplied. Participants should wear an old shirt or apron.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Andrea McCullough (Relatively Ceramics)

WET FELTED FLOWER VASE

Sat 29 Mar | 10am - 4pm | £35

Let your creativity bloom in this hands-on and engaging workshop exploring the beauty of natural wool fibres through an ancient and sustainable craft technique. Louisa will guide you step-by-step in designing your decorative arrangement of flowers in a tulip vase using resist techniques for seamless construction. Learn the process of wet felting, using soap, water, and pressure to bind wool fibres together.

All materials supplied. Please bring a hand or bath towel.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Louisa Kelly

INTRODUCTION TO BOTANICAL INKS

Thurs 3 Apr | 6.30pm - 9pm | £22

Learn to create botanical inks by extracting vibrant, natural colours from locally foraged plants and flowers. Experiment with your homemade inks to achieve a diverse colour range using acids (like lemon) and alkalis (like bicarbonate of soda). Finish by creating a unique painting on quality paper to take home, along with a recipe card for future ink-making experiments. All materials supplied.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Hannah Clegg

REEFKNOT TWISTED

WIRE RING OR EARRINGS

Sat 5 Apr | 10am - 4pm | £50

Spend a day of fun and make a reef knot and twisted silver rings or pair of earrings under the guidance of goldsmith Diane Lyness.

Each participant will be taught traditional jewellery making techniques such as piercing, soldering, shaping, texturing and polishing to create a unique pair of rings or earrings to take home. No previous experience is required. Please bring an apron to protect clothing.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Diane Lyness (Goldsmith)

FUSED GLASS

CONTEMPORARY

TABLEWARE

Sat 5 Apr | 10am - 3pm | £60

Make one of these five beautiful pieces in this new fused glass class. A colourful glass Nibble/Dip/Sushi Dish 32 x 10cm or Square Plate 20cm x 20cm or Round Shallow Bowl 20 x 20cm or Longboat 33 x 10.5 or Heart Bowl 20 x 20 cm. You will make your chosen item using a wide variety of colours and glass products - from sheet glass, rods, powder frit (small pieces of glass) and even liquid glass with endless design possibilities. A colourful way to present contemporary tableware or just for display. Tutor Keith will demonstrate the design process and guide you on the creation of your own design for a professional finish. All tools and materials will be provided. Please wear suitable clothing and closed toe flat shoes. Bowls will be fired at Keith’s studio and returned to the venue for collection.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Keith Sheppard (Glass Artistry)

CARRICKMACROSS LACECLEMATIS

Wed 9 - Fri 11 Apr (3 days) | 10am - 3pm | £80

Award winning designer and lace maker Theresa Kelly presents this lace workshop based around the clematis flower. Learn Carrickmacross Lace techniques of couching, guipure, loops etc. Theresa will guide you through the making of this original flower design. Suitable for beginner and intermediate lace makers. All materials are provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small lamp to shine on their work for increased visibility.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 18+ | Tutor: Theresa Kelly

FELTED SPRING FLOWERS

Thurs 10 Apr | 6pm - 9pm | £25

Artist Carol Willey will introduce you to wet felting, where you will learn to create a felted flower piece to represent the incoming season. You will be introduced to wet felting and needle felting techniques such as carding, layering and blending colours, as well as needling to finish off the fine details.

All materials provided. You are welcome to bring images of your own choice for inspiration. Please bring a small towel.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Carol Willey

PAPER LANTERNS

Sat 12 Apr | 10am - 12pm | £12

This colourful workshop incorporates simple decoupage, cutting, gluing and pasting beautiful papers onto a 3D lantern. We’ll do a base layer in watercolour-stained tissue paper adding decorative flower cutouts and creating our own floral-patterned design. The delightful lanterns will be finished off with colourful ribbons, perfect for blowing in a gentle Spring breeze.

Max No: 10 | Age 7 - 13 years

Tutor: Lina Morgan (A Misty Kind of Blue)

SEASONAL EASTER DOOR

WREATH - FLOWERWORKS

Sat 12 Apr | 10am - 12noon or 1.30pm - 3.30pm | £55

Create a large fresh flower and foliage long lasting wreath perfect for your front door this spring. Using fresh seasonal spring flowers and foliage in an oasis wreath ring you will design your own wreath and decorate with colourful Easter accessories and ribbon. You will learn lots of top tips for choosing, conditioning and caring for flowers and the skills to re-create wreaths for all seasons again and again.

All materials provided. Please bring your own secateurs.

Max No: 20 | Tutor: Romaine Hodgen (Flowerworks)

NEEDLE FELTING - FOREST LANDSCAPE

Sat 12 Apr | 10am - 4pm | £35

Join Louisa Kelly in this workshop where you’ll combine both wet felting and needle felting techniques to bring your nature-inspired artwork to life. Using barbed needles, you’ll sculpt and layer wool fibres to create fine details and textures, while the wet felting process will help form the base structure. Work from provided images or bring your own forest scenes for inspiration. Please bring a hand or bath towel and any images you’d like to use as reference. All materials provided.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Louisa Kelly

PANCAKE ART & ROLLED ICE-CREAM

Sat 26 Apr | 10am - 12pm | £13

Kids turn their imaginations into delicious pancakes using crepe makers as they craft their own edible masterpieces. For dessert they will create DIY stirfried ice cream rolls, choosing their own ice cream flavours to ‘cook’ up a tasty treat. Crepe makers are provided with full health and safety training provided. Ingredients are nut free. Please inform the tutor if your child has any allergies. Tutor’s contact email available upon booking.

Max No: 16 | Age 7-12 years

Tutor: Cookin With Kids NI

INSPIRED BY SPRING - NATURE PRINTING

Sat 26 Apr | 10.30am - 3pm | £28

In this Botanical printing workshop with Ruth Osborne, you’ll explore Spring’s colours, textures, and patterns by hand-printing onto Irish linen and Italian papers using natural plant materials. Learn about plant folklore and symbolism while creating unique artworks with fresh and dried foliage. You’ll work with coloured paints, inks, and a printing press, and learn to create washed backgrounds to complement your printed designs. All materials supplied.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Ruth Osborne

STRIKE AND SHAPEHAMMERED TEXTURED RING

3D LANDSCAPE FELTED POTS

Sat 3 May | 10am - 3pm | £30

Learn how to create 3D forms using wet felting in this immersive workshop. You will cover the essentials of 3D wet felting, including resist felting to create seamless, hollow wool forms, layering fibres for depth, colour and texture to bring your landscape or abstract design to life. Tutor Hazel will demonstrate techniques for shaping and moulding felt to create strong, durable 3D structures which can be used practically to hold many household items or simply display as sculptural artworks. All materials provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Hazel Boland

Sat 3 May | 10am - 1pm | £30

Join goldsmith Tara Campbell for a hands-on workshop where you’ll create a stunning, wide textured silver ring from start to finish. Learn a variety of hammering techniques and discover creative ways to achieve unique textures, including methods you can try at home. By layering multiple texturing techniques, you’ll craft an organic, one-of-akind ring made to your perfect size! All materials and tools provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Tara Campbell

SOAP MAKING WITH NATURALLY SOAP - SPRING SCENTS

Thurs 8 May | 6.30pm - 9pm | £25

Discover the ancient craft of soap making using the traditional cold process method. You will be using only natural ingredients, fragranced with pure essential oils to make eco-friendly spring seasonal fragranced soap perfect for a special gift or to display in your kitchen or bathroom. Each participant will receive a small apple shaped and scented soap to add on to their own soap for a beautiful fresh fragrance and decorative finish. The basic skills taught in this workshop will enable you to go home and keep making your own soap with ease. Attendees must bring their own apron, disposable gloves, and a small towel and wear long sleeves and full shoes.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 18+

Tutors: Pamela Mawhinney & Irene Gourley (Naturally Soap)

SUMMER CYANOTYPES

Sat 10 May | 10.30am - 3.30pm | £35

This workshop will introduce participants to the process of Cyanotype, a photographic technique that uses sunlight and chemicals to create beautiful blue prints with white designs. Using botanicals, objects and stencils, participants will build imagery to create their own unique prints on paper and fabric. You will leave with a range of unique artworks which can be framed at home.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+

Tutor: Ruth Osborne

THAI CURRIES WITH THAI COOKING NI

Sat 10 May | 10am - 12pm or 1pm - 3pm | £25

The perfect Thai curry is a delicate balance of herbs and spices. Thai Curries come in many styles including Masaman, Penang curry, Red curry, Green curry and Yellow curry and more, all of which have their own distinctive flavour and aroma. In this hands-on cooking workshop learn about using the right ingredients, preparing them in the right way and adding them at the right time giving you authentic Thai curry pastes.

You will taste and eat the food you have made as part of the workshop experience. All ingredients supplied. Please bring an apron and take-home food containers. Please notify the tutor of any allergies prior to attending the course. Inform Box Office at time of booking to receive tutor’s email address.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Thai Arts NI

HEDGEROW PRINTED SILK SCARF

Sat 17 May | 10am - 4pm | £70

Discover the magic of botanical printing in this one-day high quality crafting experience with textile artist Angela Turkington. Create stunning and unique prints using locally sourced flowers and plants on luxurious silk fabric. Start by experimenting with different techniques to produce sample prints, which will inspire your afternoon project - designing and printing your very own ‘hedgerow’ silk scarf to take home. All materials are provided, including a half metre of highquality momme silk and a hand-rolled silk scarf ready for dyeing and printing.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Angela Turkington (Leopard and Lily)

CUPCAKE DECORATING FOR KIDS

Sat 17 May | 10am - 12pm | £15

Mini pastry chefs will experience decorating a box of 12 cupcakes to take home, featuring 3D designs like bunnies, flowers, and butterflies or Spring-themed ideas of their own. Learn how to pipe buttercream like a pro, use florist paste for colouring, and the techniques to cut sugar paste to give your cupcakes a domed, professional look. All materials and aprons provided!

Max No: 10 | Ages: 7 - 12 years | Tutor: Rosemary Hughes (Rosie’s Country Kitchen)

FONDANT CAKES

Sat 17 May | 1.30pm - 4.30pm | £35

Learn how to use a variety of cake decorating techniques to create beautiful cakes with a professional finish. You will learn to cover a 6-inch round celebration cake. Split, level and prepare your sponge cake and professionally prepare your sponge with crumb coat. Cover your cake and drum with sugar paste for a perfect finish. Rosemary will share her top tips on types of paste to use and colouring techniques. Creating your own hand made decorations using different cutters and modelling tools you will perfect the finishing touches for your cake.

Participants will bring home their boxed finished sponge cake. All equipment and ingredients are included. Full notes will be available for you to take home. All you need to bring is an apron.

Max No: 12 | Tutor: Rosemary Hughes (Rosie’s Country Kitchen)

WILDFLOWERS

IN ACRYLICS & OILS

Sat 31 May | 10am - 1pm | £30

Join Michelle to paint a beautiful wildflower meadow using acrylics and oils. You will learn which brushes to use to get different effects, colour mixing and balancing and brush stroke effects to perfect your masterpiece. You will be introduced to beautiful colour palettes that will bring life and vibrancy to your finished piece.

Suitable for novices or more experienced painters. All materials supplied as well as flower images. Please bring an apron/old shirt to protect your clothes!

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ Tutor: Michelle Wilson

FIZZY BATH BOMBS

Sat 31 May | 10am - 12pm | £15

Have fun making your own colourful fizzy bath bombs with Molly & Me. You will be guided step-by-step to mix each ingredient and explore how they work together to create that awesome fizz in the tub! You’ll learn about the cool ingredients in bath products and how to make them at home using simple stuff from your kitchen. By the end, you’ll have made two or three bath bombs to take home, plus you’ll get a recipe so you can keep making more.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 7+

Tutor: Sharron McHugh (Molly & Me)

PROTECT YOUR TICKETS

Nothing is more disappointing than not being able to attend an event you’ve been looking forward to. When you purchase refund protection, at least you won’t be left out of pocket.

We’ve partnered with Booking Protect to offer customers the world’s most flexible and comprehensive refund protection cover. Simply select additional refund protection at the checkout or when booking through our Box Office, and you’ll have peace of mind that you can request a full refund if certain unexpected circumstances occur and you have to miss an event. We hope this option will give you even more flexibility and security when purchasing tickets with us!

AT THE HEART OF IT ARTS CARE 2025

17 Jan - 8 March | Foyer Walls

The colourful artworks on display are created by service users of various facilities across the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. The Arts Care Artists-in-Residence Caroline Shimmons, Eddie Rafferty and Jill McKeown facilitate service users through a health and wellbeing program to create individual artworks that enhance our healthcare environments.

The exhibition highlights artworks, which explore individual reflections, interests and snapshots of life in a broad range of mediums including painting, printmaking, textiles and mixed media. This work is a testimony to the impact art has on staff, service users, family and visitors to the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.

GRAFT ROGHA - RING OF GULLION HANDCRAFTS & ART

24 Jan - 15 March | Gallery

Graft - to work, combine an idea or system, relating to botanic propagation.

This network of artists has supported each other for many years while also forging individual creative paths. They are connected regionally and thematically by the landscape and people of South Armagh. Addressing this longstanding relationship, the group present their collaboration, GRAFT. A circular process by which each artist has loaned an example of their own work to a colleague and then taken inspiration from another’s to develop interconnected artwork.

Aptly, the acronym ROGHA is also the Irish word for choice, as passionate collectors will discover a meld of disciplines here, amongst a special gathering of accomplished artists.

With this exchange, Mary Cowan Ceramics, Caóilfíonn Murphy O’Hanlon Textiles, Tracey McVerry Glass, Rozzi Kennedy Painting, Karen Murphy Fine Art, Mary Larkin Textiles and Diane McKevitt Mixed Media have found meeting points to grow their working practices as one.

Our exhibition Graft is dedicated to Tracey McVerry who sadly passed away in August 2024, in honour of her outstanding contribution to our collective. We dedicate our work to her memory and her beautiful family. Tracey strove for excellence in all her endeavours and encouraged and inspired us in so many ways.

VIBRANT ECHOS

JOANNE FITZPATRICK

14 March - 17 May | Foyer Walls

Joanne Fitzpatrick is a visual artist from Armagh. Her work explores the landscape using a combination of screen printing, drawing and painting. ‘Vibrant Echoes’ is a series of semi-abstract paintings that push the boundaries of traditional landscapes.

Throughout her practice, Joanne focuses on mark-making to examine the formal elements with colour playing a central role. She works with a dynamic palette often incorporating neon paint and bright hues to evoke energy and emotion.

Joanne’s process is intuitive, driven by the layering of different media and techniques to create vibrancy, spontaneity and a sense of movement.

25 YEARS OF CREATIVITY

CELEBRATING VISUAL ARTS & MAKERS

AT THE MARKET PLACE GALLERY - ARTS COUNCIL NI COLLECTION

28 March - 10 May | Gallery

Celebrating 25 Years of Creativity is an exciting exhibition that marks 25 years of artistic expression at the Market Place Gallery. This milestone event showcases the extraordinary talent of a diverse group of leading visual artists and makers, many of whom have exhibited at the gallery either as solo artists or as part of collectives over the past quartercentury.

Featuring a rich array of disciplinesincluding drawing, painting, sculpture, craft, print, photography, and textilesthe exhibition highlights the depth and diversity of creative work from artists, many of whom are from the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon borough.

This exhibition in association with the Arts Council of Northern Ireland has been made possible by their Art Lending Scheme, offering a unique opportunity for public venues to display works from the council’s contemporary collection of over 700 artworks.

A heartfelt thank you to all the artists for being an integral part of our 25year celebration of art and creativity. Your contributions have shaped the vibrant legacy of visual arts at the venue and we look forward to creating more together in the future.

Reveal, Conceal is an exciting exhibition from Louth Craft Mark Designers Network which is bound to reveal something new, something else, something hidden! The artists have come together across a range of disciplines, including textiles, glass, jewellery, ceramics, print, illustration, sculpture and painting to create a new body of work for the Market Place Gallery which explores the ‘inside out’ of things.

For almost two decades Louth Craft Mark have been showcasing their members work in public spaces including, Bloom in the Park, Showcase Ireland, Highlanes Gallery and Powerscourt Town House.

As part of our ongoing commitment to excellent customer care, we would love to hear from you about your experience of our venue.

Your valuable feedback will be greatly beneficial to us, as we will use it as the basis for future improvements to our service. If you would like to give us feedback about your experience, you can contact us in one of the following ways;

HOTEL

2 Friary Road, Armagh, BT60 4FR

t: 028 3751 8888 www.armaghcityhotel.com

Enjoy a relaxing stay in our spacious bedrooms inclusive of full Irish breakfast, use of the hotel’s health & fitness club, free wifi, and complimentary car parking. With tempting dining options available in our Friary Restaurant, Callan Bar, and Deli. Check our website www.armaghcityhotel.com for our best rates and special offers. Located within a 10 minute walk of the theatre.

57-65 English Street, Armagh, BT61 7LB

t: 028 3752 2028 www.charlemontarmshotel.com

Enjoy an overnight stay and full Ulster fry with us for only £50pps midweek (Mon-Thurs) when going to a show in the Theatre. With 30 comfortable bedrooms, complimentary onsite parking, onsite bar and restaurant and free wi-fi the Charlemont Arms is setup for your perfect stay right in the heart of Armagh city centre and with only a 2-minute walk away to The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre. Simply quote ‘Market Place Offer’ when booking and show your ticket at reception on arrival.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

THEATRE PROGRAMME

The views expressed by artists presenting their work in the auditoria and exhibition areas are the artists’ views alone and do not represent the views of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon District Council.

BOOK IN PERSON

Box Office Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4.30pm. On performance evenings the Box Office will remain open until 7pm for all bookings and until the performance start-time for tickets for that night’s show only.

BOOK ONLINE

Tickets for most performances and workshops can be booked online at visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS A £1 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE FOR TICKETS PURCHASED ONLINE.

BOOK BY TELEPHONE

Mon to Sat from 9.30am to 4.30pm. On performance evenings we take phone bookings until 7pm. The easiest way to pay is by credit or debit card.

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS A £1 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE FOR TICKETS PURCHASED BY PHONE.

SCHOOL BOOKINGS & INFO: 03300 561 025

DISCOUNTS & SPECIAL OFFERS

Seats 2 & 3 in the Upper North and Upper South Galleries have a restricted view and are offered at a discounted ticket price. A number of seats will be available for £5 for people and families totally dependent on state benefit. Shows marked R in our brochure are included in this scheme.

Discounts for some performances are also offered to senior citizens, carers of disabled patrons, students and the unemployed (relevant proof of eligibility will be required). Tickets for all the above must be paid for in person.

We reserve the right to make special offers on tickets throughout the season. Offers cannot be claimed retrospectively (under any circumstances) on tickets already purchased.

TICKETS CANNOT BE EXCHANGED OR REFUNDED

Once purchased, your ticket is your property. The Market Place Theatre cannot refund its value to you, nor exchange it for any other ticket under any circumstances. If you cannot attend the performance for any reason, you have the option of selling or giving your ticket to another person.

Where a performance goes ahead we accept no responsibility for tickets that are unable to be used due to circumstances outside of our control, for example bad weather and transport difficulties.

Please see page 70 for details of our ticket protection scheme.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

LATECOMERS

Latecomers will only be admitted if there is a suitable break, which in some cases may be the interval. Where there is no interval or suitable break we reserve the right to refuse admission and no refund can be issued.

SUPPORT ACTS

For some performances, a support act will precede the headline act, particularly for popular music events and comedy. Whilst The Market Place endeavours to inform patrons about such support acts in advance, on some occasions this may not be possible.

CHILDREN

Children aged two and under may attend suitable performances for free but must be seated and must be in possession of a valid ticket.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE

Our staff are delighted to provide special assistance, if required, to disabled and other theatregoers. Our facilities include spaces for ten wheelchairs, lifts to all levels of the building, low level access at the Box Office, and an infra-red system to assist patrons with hearing difficulties.

Customers using wheelchairs or those who require special assistance attending an event should contact the Box Office in advance so that appropriate assistance can be arranged.

PARKING & DIRECTIONS

Detailed directions to the theatre and a map showing parking and directions can be viewed on our website visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

PLEASE NOTE

Smoking, electronic cigarettes, the use of mobile phones, photography and video equipment and food and drinks are strictly prohibited in both auditoria. All details are correct at time of going to print. We reserve the right to alter the programme in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.

STROBE LIGHTING : FLASH LIGHTING LIGHTING EFFECTS

During many performances at The Market Place Theatre, lighting effects are used, including strobe lighting.

Patrons who may experience difficulties with such effects should note that The Market Place Theatre will post notices around the venue to make you aware when strobe lighting will be used.

THE PERFECT VENUE FOR MEETINGS, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Located in the heart of Armagh’s glorious Georgian City Centre, the award-winning Market Place Theatre, Arts & Conference Centre combines stunning modern facilities with outstanding customer service and a warm Armagh welcome.

• 393 SEAT AUDITORIUM

• 120 SEAT FLEXIBLE STUDIO THEATRE

• BREAK OUT ROOMS

• ON-SITE PARKING

• FREE WI-FI visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

t. 03300 561 059

THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE ARMAGH

A Market Place Theatre Gift voucher makes an ideal present for a loved one, friend or colleague and is ideal for any occasion including that elusive Christmas or Birthday present.

Gift Vouchers are available in any denomination and can be purchased from The Theatre Box Office.

MARKET PLACE THEATRE BEAT THE QUEUE

PRE-ORDER YOUR INTERVAL DRINKS

You can pre-order your interval drinks at any of our bars before the performance to avoid queuing at the interval. Our bars serve a wide range of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks.

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