Northern Ireland's weekend – exhibitions, blues and a rock choir
Born & Bred has introduced the newest addition to its mug shelf — Mo Chéad Cupán Beag! This teeny tiny enamel mug is made just for your favourite wee human — the perfect first cup for the smallest member of the family. The 4oz mug is perfect for water, juice or a drop of warm milk before bed. It's available in soft pink and classic white, and it's not dishwasher or microwave safe.
You talking to me
Talking Sopranos is a 90-minute live show featuring two of The Sopranos' iconic cast members, Steve Schirripa (Bobby Bacala) and Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti). Hosted by comedian Joey Kola and based on the pair's award-winning podcast, expect intimate memories and behind the scenes stories. It'll also include a no holds barred Q&A section where audiences can ask the cast anything. They're coming to the Waterfront Hall on February 15, 2026. Tickets are on sale from waterfront.co.uk and ticketmaster.ie
Hands on exhibitions
Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is welcoming two new art exhibitions to its Georgian and Sunburst Galleries: Repeated Hands, a solo exhibition by Elaine Burke, and Thirtyfold, a solo exhibition of work by Joanna McNulty. In Repeated Hands, a new body of work, Elaine Burke presents a fusion of wall-hung drawings, installation and animated drawing exploring the boundaries of what drawing can be. Thirtyfold explores the relationship between time, architecture and identity through the documentation of one home lived in for 30 years and the construction of a new one. Joanna McNulty merges past and present, examining how spaces shape and reflect personal and architectural histories. Both exhibitions are open until June 25 and admission is free. andculture.org.uk
Wonderful 'wich craft
DELI LITES has won yet another national award at the UK Sammie Awards, recognised as the Oscars in the sandwich and food to go industry awards. Brian and Jackie Reid took top prize in the highly competitive Hot Category for its premium Roast Mushroom, Truffle and Mascarpone Tosta. DELI LITES Food Innovation and Development Manager, Donna McGuire, was also a nominee in the final of the Sandwich Designer of the Year's Kings Fine Cooked Meats Gammon category. The winning gourmet sandwich was developed with airlines in mind and for the higher-end premium market in general.
There's still time…
... to enjoy some of the 26th anniversary celebrations for the International Guinness Blues of the Bay Festival. Taking place in Warrenpoint until May 27, there's plenty of free performances, jam sessions and workshops packed into the celebrations. Music lovers can expect a feast of blues and jazz talent from around the world and closer to home. Additional highlights include an artisan food and craft market. bluesonthebay .com
The magic of the musicals
Looking for a showstopping night out this May Bank Holiday weekend? Join the award-winning St Agnes' Choral Society for The Magic of Musicals, an unforgettable concert at The Ulster Hall, Belfast, tomorrow, May 25. Enjoy timeless favourites from Mary Poppins, The Greatest Showman, Calamity Jane, Cabaret, Wicked and more, all brought to life with stunning vocals, live music and dazzling choreography. Come one, come all to enjoy this enchanting evening of musical theatre and help support Friends of the Cancer Centre. Book now at ulsterhall.co.uk or call 028 9033 4455.
Rock out to rock choir
On June 6, Rock Choir, the world's largest contemporary choir, will take to the stage of The Mill Theatre for a spectacular concert of uplifting, feel-good pop, rock, and chart-topping hits. As the UK's first contemporary choir of its kind, Rock Choir has redefined the world of singing, offering an inclusive and accessible experience for amateur singers of all backgrounds. Rock Choir was warmly welcomed into Northern Ireland just three years ago and has quickly amassed nearly 1,000 singers, who have in that short time performed all over Belfast at various events and concerts. The event continues on June 7 with SummerFest at the Mill. theatreatthemill.com
Taking off
Jet2.com has announced the launch of its first-ever fully funded pilot training programme, giving up to 60 aspiring pilots the opportunity to fly for the award-winning airline without having to self-fund the £100,000-plus cost of flight training. Jet2FlightPath has been developed to attract the very best talent to support Jet2.com's growth, enabling the leading leisure airline to fly more customers away to enjoy their well-deserved holidays on an expanding fleet of aircraft. It's open to candidates from all backgrounds (subject to meeting the application criteria). To apply, candidates need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and a science subject. jet2careers.com/pilots/jet2flightpath/info
Blooming lovely
The Hothouse Flowers will take to the stage as the centrepiece of a weekend packed with heritage, culture, and music at the Belfast Maritime Festival. Running September 6-7, joining the headliners are Ríoghnach Connolly & Honeyfeet. Led by BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year, they deliver a powerful, eclectic performance with a broad terrain of musical textures, from foot-tapping song to floor-thumping dance rhythms. The entertainment doesn't stop with the music and attendees to the gig can enjoy a selection of locally sourced street food, drinks and amusements. For more, see visitbelfast.com/event/belfast-maritime-festival-2025/
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