A CULTURAL EXTRAVAGANZA OF ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT RIGHT IN THE HEART OF ANTRIM TOWN

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE WITH NUALA MCKEEVER – brand new show Letting Go or Losing it

If you’re gliding gracefully towards the second half of your life, maybe this isn’t the show for you. But if you want reassurance that you’re not the only one struggling with all the things life throws at you, step right up!

Weight gain, menopause, bereavement and becoming invisible – just some of the joys that await the woman of a certain age! Throw in disappearing libido, Donald Trump and comfy shoes and the picture gets even more depressing. Everything’s heading south and there’s no border to stop the slide.

What to do? Lie down and take it (at least that makes your stomach look flatter) or stand up and laugh?

Nuala McKeever gives both a go in her hilarious new show as she transforms the awful into the awfully funny, by way of her trademark wit and compassion.

Suitable for men and women and those who define as both or neither.

THE LONG NOW

‘Memory is general to all, while memories are unique to each of us. Memory is shared, but my memories are mine, warmed or cooled, sweetened or embittered with time’s passing.

I remember as a child being a passenger in a big black car on one dark evening. I remember sitting low in the front passenger seat, looking up and out through the windscreen, the passing world of tree tops and cloud-filled sky being cut like scenes in a film with that mesmeric rhythm of the windscreen wipers. Do I remember, or do I imagine the sound of the wipers, the warmth of the car, and the smell of the smoke of my mother’s cigarette? I do not know but I imagine I remember the truth of that experience.’

With two actors, projections, live music underscore and a soundscaped chorus, The Long Now explores one man’s memories of growing up in County Antrim in the 1950s set against the ripples of external political, economic and cultural forces that were to impact so forcibly on life here during that time.

Featuring Sam Burnside’s poetic language, The Long Now is an evocative exploration of memory, childhood and hope.

JURASSIC LOC DOWN WITH FOSSIL HUNT

Join us for an educational dive into the world of prehistoric beasts!

Jay the T-rex and his little sister Roxie will be stomping their way into Antrim Castle Gardens this April!

Our dedicated Dino wranglers will be on hand to teach you all about fossils, meteors and how to train a ‘real life’ dinosaur all in a fully interactive show with a 14ft long blinking, roaring, stomping T-rex!

Our fossil dig around the gardens/ Antrim town will give you a look into the world of archaeology and how these treasured fossils are uncovered.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by an adult

WONDERLAND WOOD TREASURE TRAIL

Come be enchanted as we lead you on a tantalising treasure trail where an array of quirky characters will guide you and surprise you as they take you through our wonderful, Wonderland Wood!

For the very first time, this afternoon adventure is available to treasure hunters young and old who simply need to book a day and time, then make their way to Clotworthy House, Antrim Castle Gardens, where the jolly journey will begin.

Don’t hesitate or you could be too late … book that ticket and make a special date … magic, adventure and fun awaits!

Sessions are at 15 minute intervals, with the first session at 1pm and last session at 3.45pm both Saturday 6th April & Sunday 7th April

BOP BOP BABY

Come along and get down to the beats with a fun-filled activities designed especially for the under 4’s. Dance with your baby or toddler to non-stop uplifting dance music, enjoy colourful visual projections and explore a range of sensory toys. The duration of each Bop Bop Baby is 60 minutes.

MR HULLABALOO

Enjoy a unique and creative storytelling experience with the one and only Mr Hullabaloo. Watch in amazement as the enchanting kingdom of Hullabaloo is brought vividly to life with puppets, props and special guests.

LIVING HISTORY AT POGUE’S ENTRY

Take a tour of one of Antrim’s most historic locations, Pogues Entry, birthplace of writer Alexander Irvine.

Meet the Lady of the Chimney Corner and some of the characters who shaped Irvine’s Life and work.

ARTISAN MARKET

Let your senses explore the sights, sounds and smells of the artisan Market. Browse around the stalls and enjoy some live music and delicious street food.

FUNFAIR

Enjoy all the fun of the fair as Antrim High Street comes alive with a whole range of fairground favourites for all the family.

LIVE STREET PERFORMANCES

Antrim town centre will be brought to life with an array of spectacular street performers.