Hailing from Newry, Northern Ireland, The 4 Of Us has been captivating audiences for over three decades with their soulful melodies and compelling lyrics.
With brothers Brendan and Declan Murphy at the helm, The 4 Of Us has left an indelible mark on the Irish music scene. Their journey began in the late ’80s, and since then, they’ve evolved into one of Ireland’s most beloved and enduring musical acts. Known for their distinctive sound that seamlessly blends rock, folk, and pop influences, The 4 Of Us has produced a string of hits that have become anthems for fans across generations.
Brothers Brendan & Declan Murphy will perform the highlights of their award-winning career, along with new material from their latest album, Crescent Nights. This show will be a chance to hear Mary, Washington Down, She Hits Me, Sunlight and many more classics.
DIONA DOHERTY ‘GET YOUR PINK BACK’
DATE: SATURDAY 10 MAY 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £15
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRESENTED BY: TSW MANAGEMENT
NI Comedy and Bluebook Artist Management present DIONA DOHERTY: GET YOUR PINK BACK!
Diona Doherty (The Blame Game/Derry Girls/Soft Border Patrol) is trying to get her pink back.
Just like flamingos, whose pink colour has been drained by the stresses of motherhood, Diona is on a mission to find out who the hell she is after having kids. A new stand-up show from Diona Doherty, filled with hilariously relatable anecdotes and whole lot of brutal honesty.
Performances
Performances
LITTLE WOMEN
DATE: SATURDAY 17 MAY 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £18 / £16
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRESENTED BY: HOTBUCKLE PRODUCTIONS
Hotbuckle Productions are bringing their latest adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s ‘Little Women’ to Down Arts Centre this summer!
After last year’s successful tour of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, Hotbuckle are back with their unique style of adaptations of classic novels. The virtuoso company have been entertaining audiences for many years with their inventive interpretations of familiar texts. Previous productions have included, Great Expectations, Jane Eyre, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Wuthering Heights, David Copperfield and Les Misérables, as well as Jane Austen’s Persuasion and Emma.
The beloved classic novel ‘Little Women’ by Louisa May Alcott is the next novel to be given a Hotbuckle make-over in a new adaptation by Adrian Preater. Written in 1868, it has received several movie adaptations as well as television series, plays, radio dramas and musicals. One of the most iconic American novels ever written, it continues to be a source of inspiration due to the exploration of girlhood, family and female ambition.
Hotbuckle are renowned for their fast -paced, multi-role-playing adaptations which cross age and gender traditions, and their latest offering promises to keep true to their style as we are invited to enter the world of The March sisters. Their journey from adolescence to adulthood is navigated through skillful characterisation and imaginative staging, as Hotbuckle explore family, love, loss and the challenges of growing up. With a touch of the highly acclaimed Hotbuckle humour and fast-paced storytelling, 19th Century Massachusetts will be brought to life as you’ve never experienced before!
THE BOONDOCKS
DATE: FRIDAY 23 MAY 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £16
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
The Boondocks bring to life old school country songs you’ll know and love, including the songs of Hank Williams, Glen Campbell, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Gram Parsons, Merle Haggard, John Prine and Townes Van Zandt.
Anthony Toner (vocals, electric, steel and acoustic guitar), Mark Crockard (vocals and acoustic guitar) and Marcus McAuley (mandolin and acoustic guitar) deliver those beautiful melodies, touching words, soaring harmonies and intricate solos.
Country music is all about storytelling, raw emotions, and that authentic twang that comes from the heart. It’s the sound of real life—the heartbreaks, the victories, the small-town moments and the roots that run deep.
The Boondocks strip back those timeless songs to create an intimate and authentic feel, as if you are listening to them on a warm Texas night on a back porch when the songs were played for the first time. Country’s got history, and it can’t just be imitated, it’s gotta be felt.
Join The Boondocks for a special evening of the very best of real country music.
THE BELFAST MA: AWAY PLAY ROUND YOUR OWN DOOR
DATE: SATURDAY 7 JUNE 2025
SUNDAY 8 JUNE 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £22
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRESENTED BY: BELFAST MA LTD
A new comedy written by Tom Rowntree-Finlay and Thomas McCorry
Starring TIKTOK sensation Paul Nugent
Belfast Ma is back with ‘Away Play Round Your Own Door!’ A hilarious 5-star comedy hit. This number one sell out show tells the story of a wee Belfast Street. The people, the secrets, the craic, the neighbours, the families, the husband and of course the bingo as seen from the eyes of everyone’s favourite Sadie Devine.
Experience the best of Belfast onstage as Sadie spills the beans on her neighbours Patricia, Stevie, Wee Ian, Big Maureen and Dirty Gerty from number thirty. Find out all the biz as she prepares the street to win ‘The Best Wee Street in Belfast Competition’
A hilarious comedy based on everyone’s Ma. The Belfast Ma guarantees a pure geg! Due to popularity of this show, there will be 2 performances this June – don’t miss out!
ANTHEM FOR DISSATISFACTION
DATE: SATURDAY 14 JUNE 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £18 / £16
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRESENTED BY: BRASSNECK THEATRE COMPANY
Irish Twins Sarah and Jamie are about to hit 30. But before they do, they’re reliving their greatest hits; ‘Credit crunch’, ‘Austerity’ and ‘Free School Meals’… Benefits Britain never sounded so good! Jamie is the baby of the family. He has absolutely no tact, no patience and no filter. But where did that ever get anyone? Sarah is 11 months and 4 days older which means she’s smarter, she’s cooler and she’s right about everything.
She was right that Oasis were freedom, she was right that Manic Street Preachers were poetry, and she was right to be worried when Dad lost his job. And in 2023 everything’s going wrong again, the bills keep going up and the opportunities keep going down. Sarah and Jamie aren’t two kids in one bedroom anymore, the future is uncertain and there’s only so long you can hang on to the past.
A euphoric, working-class celebration of the power of live music, teenage angst, sibling rivalry and love in this electric and hilarious, coming-of-age anthem for anyone who ever wanted more.
Winner of the Solas Nua Award at the Dublin Fringe Festival 2024
Performances
Performances
David Lyttle presents Jazzlife
JAZZ JUNIORS
DATE: SATURDAY 21 JUNE 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £10
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRESENTED BY: DAVID LYTTLE
The MOBO nominated drummer/composer presents up-and-coming 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 near Area 51. Closer to home, David is the founder of Jazz Juniors, a jazz improvisation scheme for under 18s based at the MAC, Belfast and Strule Arts Centre, and funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Recently David had the honour of performing for President Michael D. Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin.
“One of the world’s great contemporary drummers“ – All About Jazz “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 Independent
Film Screenings
BLUE ROAD: THE EDNA O’BRIEN STORY
DATE: THURSDAY 19 JUNE 2025
TIME: 8PM (BAR AVAILABLE FROM 7PM)
PRICE: £5 (INCLUDES TEA/COFFEE & A BISCUIT)
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRESENTED BY: FILM HUB NI
Blue Road: The Edna O’Brien Story
Join us for a special screening of Blue Road: The Edna O’Brien Story, a poignant documentary directed by Sinéad O’Shea. The film offers an intimate portrait of one of Ireland’s most fearless and celebrated literary voices, Edna O’Brien.
Narrated by Jessie Buckley and featuring O’Brien’s final interviews, the documentary delves into her extraordinary journey—from rural County Clare to international acclaim—highlighting the personal and political landscapes that shaped her work and life. With rare archival material and candid reflections, Blue Road stands as a powerful testament to O’Brien’s resilience, artistry, and enduring legacy.
This screening is part of a Collective x Docs Ireland tourfor more details see www.filmhubni.org
Collective – an initiative from Film Hub NI (BFI Film Audience Network) to connect people to great films.
Docs Ireland takes place 24-29 June - see www.docsireland.ie for the full programme.
A heartfelt celebration of creativity, courage, and voice—this is one not to miss.
TAI CHI WITH PETESY
DATE: TUESDAY 6 MAY – TUESDAY 24 JUNE 2025
[PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN 8 WEEK CLASS]
TIME: 12:30PM – 1:30PM OR 6PM - 7PM
PRICE: £45 / £40 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: PETESY BURNS
Tai Chi is a gentle flowing exercise which aims to enhance the bodies intrinsic energy system. The main benefits are relaxation and physical and mental balance. As well as this Tai Chi works on strengthening the core and is a cardiovascular exercise. At its core Tai Ch promotes physical and mental well-being through focusing the practitioner on the individual moves and creating a sense of truly being in the moment. As the nature of the movement is slow and gentle, Tai Chi is suitable for all, regardless of age or ability.
PAINTING WITH GEMMA BLAKELY
DATE: TUESDAY 10 JUNE – TUESDAY 8 JULY 2025
[PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A 5 WEEK ONLY CLASS IN THE AFTERNOON]
TIME: 1.30PM - 4PM
PRICE: £45 / £40 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: GEMMA BLAKELY
This painting course is aimed at both beginners and those who have some experience of acrylic painting. The sessions will cover essentials such as getting started, choosing subject matter, composition, colour, perspective, still life and landscape. Materials needed are acrylic paints or oils, brushes. A canvas or painting board, sizes ranging A3/A4, an image to paint, and a mixing tray.
Weekly Classes
Weekly Classes
PAINT BETTER WITH KIERON BLACK
DATE: TUESDAY 6 MAY – TUESDAY 24 JUNE 2025
[PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN 8 WEEK CLASS]
TIME: 7PM – 9PM
PRICE: £60 / £55 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: KIERON BLACK
Do you paint for a hobby? Or have you always wanted to but didn’t know where to begin? Join artist and illustrator Kieron Black for a series of evening painting workshops.
In a judgement-free, encouraging environment learn the basics of composition and painting techniques, or hone the skills you already have. “I don’t want to teach you to paint like me” says Kieron, “I want to help you paint like you, only better.”
GENTLE HATHA YOGA WITH BRENDA MORGAN
DATE: TUESDAY 6 MAY – TUESDAY 24 JUNE 2025
[PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN 8 WEEK CLASS]
TIME: 7.30PM – 9PM
PRICE: £55 / £50 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: BRENDA MORGAN
The focus of this class is primarily to connect the breath and the body in a conscious way, moving slowly and mindfully. It will help to ease away pain and tension in the body and mind and includes some strengthening exercises. At the end of each session there is a Yoga Nidra, when the body sleeps but the mind remains awake. This is a deep relaxation technique and a great way to recharge physically, mentally and emotionally. You will need a yoga mat and a blanket.
Health & Wellbeing
MINDFULNESS WITH ROSIE RICE
DATE: WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE 2025
TIME: 7PM – 8PM
PRICE: £25 / £20 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: ROSIE RICE
Join Rosie from the Calm Compass for a gentle and grounding wellness workshop designed to reconnect you with nature, breath, and inner stillness. Through slow, flowing movements inspired by Qi Gong, poetry and music, guided meditations, and mindful breathwork, we’ll create space for calm, clarity, and self-reflection.
This nurturing session is an offering to the soul and a soft reminder of our connection to ourselves and the world around us. All are welcome, no experience needed. Bring a blanket, pillow and an open heart ready to relax and recharge.
BREATH & SOUND WITH GUIDED MEDITATION
DATE: WEDNESDAY 18 JUNE 2025
TIME: 7PM – 9PM
PRICE: £35 / £30 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: FIONA PARKER
The breath and sound experience is a sacred journey back to yourself – a soul reset that offers space to reconnect with your true essence. Through intentional breathwork, you’ll clear away the noise of the mind and release suppressed emotions, creating room for stillness and insight. The soothing sounds of the soundbath guide you deeper into relaxation, harmonizing your energy and fostering a profound sense of inner peace.
RESET & REALIGN: NEW MOON
SOUND HEALING SPA EXPERIENCE
DATE: WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE 2025
TIME: 7PM – 9PM
PRICE: £35 / £30 CONCESSION
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: TESSA ANN SOUND HEALING
Join Tessa Ann from The Sound Healing Spa for a deeply restorative New Moon Sound Healing Experience at Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick. This 2-hour, retreat-style session invites you to rest, release, and realign your energy through a calming sound bath, followed by a gentle sound healing talk to help you integrate and ground. You’ll be guided through a deeply immersive experience using the soothing vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls, crystal bowls, gongs, and chimes, designed to bring your body and mind into a state of stillness and harmony. This practice can support emotional release, reduce stress, and create space for meaningful intention-setting. The New Moon is a powerful time for reflection and fresh beginnings—an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and align with what you wish to grow in your life. The session will take place in a calm and welcoming setting, with soft lighting and an invitation to bring your favourite cozy comforts.
• Please bring a mat, blanket, pillow, and water
• You are welcome to bring a lounger chair if you prefer not to lie on the floor
Whether this is your first time experiencing sound healing or you’ve attended before, everyone is welcome. This session is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all, regardless of experience level.
Health conditions: Not suitable during the first trimester of pregnancy. For health concerns or accessibility needs, please inform staff upon booking.
Health & Wellbeing
One Day Workshops
SILVER STACKING RINGS
DATE: SATURDAY 7 JUNE 2025
TIME: 10:00AM – 4PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £75/£70 CONCESSION
TUTOR: DIANE LYNESS
Spend a day of fun and make a pair of silver stacking rings 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 beautiful pair of rings to take home. No previous experience is required. Bring an apron to protect clothing
ARTS & CRAFTS WEEK
FOR
8 – 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: MONDAY 30 JUNE TO THURSDAY 3 JULY 2025
TIMES: 10AM TO 12NOON WORKSHOP OR 2PM TO 4PM WORKSHOP
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £45 FOR THE WEEK
PLEASE CHOOSE FROM EITHER A MORNING WORKSHOP OR AFTERNOON WORKSHOP
TUTORS: AINE & PATRICIA MCKENNA
Join local artists Aine and Patrica McKenna for a Summertime themed arts & crafts week. Jam packed with activities where kids will learn to create their own work through a variety of arts projects, including pottery, painting & collage.
COMICREATORS WITH ARTIST KIERON BLACK
FOR
8 – 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: MONDAY 7 JULY TO FRIDAY 11 JULY 2025
TIME: 10AM – 12NOON
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £45
TUTOR: KIERON BLACK
Have you ever wanted to produce your own comic or illustrated story?
Join published author / illustrator Kieron Black and learn how to fashion your concept or script into an illustrated format, be it superhero, manga, or children’s book. Over the five morning sessions, attendees will learn about the processes of creating a story and turning it into narrative art. Under Kieron’s guidance they will then create their own character(s), environment and basic plot and illustrate this in a format of their choosing, producing at the end of the week their own unique, illustrated, comic book story.
Summer Arts Programme
MOURNE STARS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY
FOR 12 – 16 YEAR OLDS
DATE: MONDAY 21 JULY TO FRIDAY 25 JULY 2025
TIMES: 10AM TO 4PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £150
FACILITATED BY: MOURNE STARS
Mourne Stars Speech, Drama & Performing Arts are coming to Down Arts Centre this summer! Sign up for a fun filled week of Drama, Performing Arts and Theatre Making. Throughout the course of the week, your son/daughter will be taking part in the creation of a show which will be performed on the final afternoon for family & friends. There will be the opportunity to learn how to approach a script, act, learn lines, sing & dance as well as learn what it is like behind the scenes when creating a play. There is the opportunity to create the props and set needed for the final performance which will be so much fun for those with experience or not.
Enjoy a week of Drama, Performing Arts and Theatre at Down Arts Centre with Mourne Stars Speech, Drama & Performing Arts…..where we help build Confidence, Communication & Creativity!
ARTS & CRAFTS WEEK
FOR 8 – 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: MONDAY 21 JULY TO FRIDAY 25 JULY 2025
TIMES: 10AM TO 12NOON WORKSHOP OR 2PM TO 4PM WORKSHOP
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £45 FOR THE WEEK
PLEASE CHOOSE FROM EITHER A MORNING WORKSHOP OR AFTERNOON WORKSHOP
TUTORS: AINE & PATRICIA MCKENNA
Join local artists Aine and Patrica McKenna for a Summertime themed arts & crafts week. Jam packed with activities where kids will learn to create their own work through a variety of arts projects, including pottery, painting & collage.
Summer Arts Programme
Summer Arts Programme
DECORATE A POT FOR 4 – 7 YEAR OLDS
DATE: TUESDAY 29 JULY 2025
TIME: 10AM – 12NOON
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £15
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
In this workshop you will get creative and decorate your own beautiful terracotta pot. You will be shown design ideas in order to achieve a striking final piece to wow everyone back home. The session finishes with adding soil and a flower to the decorated pot. This workshop is suitable for both boys and girls.
JELLYFISH SUNCATCHERS
FOR 4 TO 7 YEAR OLDS
DATE: TUESDAY 29 JULY 2025
TIME: 1PM – 3PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £15
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
Come and enjoy being messy and creative at the same time! In this workshop you will get to explore lots of colours and leave with a funky jelly fish to hang up at your home to impress all your family and friends. This workshop is suitable for both boys and girls.
KIDS FELTMAKING
FOR 8 TO 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 2025
TIME: 10AM – 12NOON
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £15
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
Come and enjoy a creative crafty morning! Naomi will introduce your child to the fun of felt making. Soap, water and friction is added to wool fibre’s and it felts into a unique fabric with endless possibilities. At the end of the workshop each child will leave with a beautiful felted art picture. This workshop is suitable for both boys and girls.
KIDS SILK PAINTING
FOR 8 TO 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 2025
TIME: 1PM – 3PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £15
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
This workshop is an ideal introduction for young people who our new to silk painting. Learn about the different materials involved before creating your very own silk painted card or picture. All materials included.
ARTS & CRAFTS WEEK
FOR 8 TO 12 YEAR OLDS
DATE: MONDAY 25 AUGUST TO FRIDAY 29 AUGUST 2025
TIMES: 10AM TO 12NOON WORKSHOP OR
2PM TO 4PM WORKSHOP
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £45 FOR THE WEEK
PLEASE CHOOSE FROM EITHER A MORNING WORKSHOP OR AFTERNOON WORKSHOP
TUTORS: AINE & PATRICIA MCKENNA
Join local artist Patrica McKenna for a Summertime themed arts & crafts week. Jam packed with activities where kids will learn to create their own work through a variety of arts projects, including pottery, painting & collage.
Summer Arts Programme
THE CALM COMPASS WITH ROSIE MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR CHILDREN (AGES 7–12)
DATES: WEDNESDAY 6TH, THURSDAY 7TH & FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST
TIMES: 2PM - 4PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £20 PER CHILD PER WORKSHOP
FACILITATED BY: THE CALM COMPASS WITH ROSIE
Join Rosie from the Calm Compass for an afternoon spent reconnecting to ourselves and each other.
In a busy world running from school to activities, sports, homework, friends and devices, children are finding it harder than ever to identify and process their emotions. Through breathwork, yoga, mindfulness activities, meditation and crafts the goal is to help provide children with the best possible start to a healthy mindset towards themselves and others.
Helping to show children how to slow down and learn the tools for self regulation from an early age is beneficial to their long term mental & physical health during adolescence and beyond. The Calm Compass takes a “back to nature and ourselves” approach to deal with hard emotions for the overthinkers, worriers and big hearted children that need a space to relax.
Mindfulness teaches children healthy resilience, boundaries, good communication techniques and a chance to step out of the technology based world we live in today for some much needed rest amongst many other vital tools for a healthy mindset. We hope to see your little yogis there to relax and reconnect.
‘INSIDE OUT’ + MINDFULNESS WORKSHOP
DATE: FRIDAY 8 AUGUST
FILM SCREENING: 12NOON TO 2PM
WORKSHOP: 2PM TO 4PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £25
INCLUDES BOTH FILM AND WORKSHOP
PRESENTED BY: FILM HUB NI & THE CALM COMPASS WITH ROSIE
As part of our Health & Wellbeing Week for Children and Young People, join us for a special screening of Inside Out, the much-loved Pixar film that explores the colourful inner world of emotions through the eyes of 11-year-old Riley.
After the film, children are invited to take part in a Mindfulness & Meditation Workshop (2pm –4pm) led by Rosie from The Calm Compass. This gentle, engaging session will give young people a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect—with themselves and each other. In today’s fast-paced world, children are juggling more than ever—from school and activities to homework, friends and screen time. This afternoon of film and mindfulness offers a safe and supportive space to explore emotional wellbeing and self-awareness. A brilliant way to spark conversation, reflection, and calm during the summer holidays. Spaces are limited—early booking is recommended.
Health & Wellbeing Week
August Craft Month
GLASS PAINTING: SUNCATCHERS & PENCIL CASES
FOR 4 TO 10 YEAR
OLDS
DATE: TUESDAY 5 AUGUST 2025
TIME: 10.30AM – 12.30PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £18
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
This exciting workshop allows kids to paint their own unique pencil case and suncatcher. All their design ideas will be brought to life with guided help from the tutor. Each kid will leave with two beautiful glass art pieces to take home!
KIDS DECORATE A BAG
FOR 4 TO 10 YEAR OLDS
DATE: TUESDAY 5 AUGUST 2025
TIME: 1PM – 3PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £18
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
Come decorate and embellish your unique bag using various fabrics, lace, buttons, crystal gems or fabric paints. This workshop is suitable for both boys and girls.
SEWING MACHINE BASICS FOR YOUNG DESIGNERS
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 9 TO 16 YEAR OLDS
DATE: TUESDAY 19 AUGUST 2025
TIME: 10AM – 2.30PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £35
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
This workshop is specifically made for young people who are new to sewing, or who would like a refresher on how to use a modern sewing machine. You will learn how to thread a machine, wind the bobbin and how to sew basic stitches. We will talk about stitch width, length and tension. By the end of the workshop once you have learnt how to master the sewing machine you will work on a small sewing project. Participants should bring along a sewing machine (in good working order) with a spare needle. If you don’t have a sewing machine, enquire at time of booking and one maybe available to use.
ADULT NEEDLE FELTED BROOCH
DATE: TUESDAY 12 AUGUST 2025
TIME: 10AM – 1PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
PRICE: £35
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
Enjoy a morning of needle felting to make a vibrant brooch to jazz up a bag or coat. This class is suitable for beginners or those with experience in felting and needlework.
ADULT NEEDLE FELTED PICTURE
DATE: TUESDAY 12 AUGUST 2025
TIME: 1.30PM – 4PM
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE PRICE: £40
TUTOR: NAOMI WHAN
Discover the magic of needle felting this afternoon. Naomi will teach you the basics of Needle felting – a dry felt making technique using a special barbed felting needle. In the workshop you will get the chance to experiment with colour, texture and a variety of fibres. You will learn about the tools, materials and techniques required for this craft. There will be a large range of colours of wool for you to choose from. Once you have learnt the basics you will make a beautiful framed picture using your new skills and knowledge. All materials included. Suitable for beginners or those who want to refresh their skills!
August Craft MonthAdults
Exhibitions
kindred anne mcalarney
DATE: THURSDAY 8 MAY 2025 – FRIDAY 30 MAY 2025
TIME: DURING OPENING HOURS
PRICE: FREE
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
the work in this exhibition is a selection from bodies of work created over the past 25 years, and includes painting, drawing, text, sound, sculpture, and video. the influences behind the processes and approaches vary but what links this work is that i have become part of them, and they are part of me, kindred. this disparate collection can offer no truths, other than as evidence of their existence. they don’t really exist unless seen. ... so please come.
image featured ‘physics or politics on a matter of principle’
EXPRESSIONS OF DOWN: PORTRAITS FROM THE DOWN COUNTY MUSEUM COLLECTION
DATE: THURSDAY 5 JUNE 2025 – FRIDAY 27 JUNE 2025
TIME: DURING OPENING HOURS
PRICE: FREE
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
This annual showcase celebrates the art collection at Down County Museum. With a focus on portraits, this year’s exhibition takes a closer look at some of the faces of Down as well as the artists who captured them.
SEVEN International is a dynamic collective of artists who formed a bond during their MFA studies at Central Saint Martins. Representing diverse backgrounds and disciplines, the group is a powerhouse in painting, printmaking, film, documentary, and photography, showcasing a rich tapestry of multimedia.
As their name suggests, SEVEN International members hail from various corners of the globe, including Australia, Italy, Romania (…) …reflecting a truly global perspective in their artistic practices. This larger more significant installation of the touring exhibition for Down Arts Centre, marks a significant milestone for the group in Northern Ireland as we once again spotlight the 2 local artists,
Karen Daye-Hutchinson and Karl Hagan with Ben Varney, Martina Margaux, Daniel Silas, Holly Elizaveta, and George Dyer, whose contributions span a range of innovative and thought-provoking works. Together, SEVEN International embodies a spirit of collaboration, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Down Arts Centre welcomes this exciting addition to the local contemporary art scene.
Lakeside STITCHERS have been in operation since the mid-1980s. They are a cross-community group and enjoy each others company while engaging in quilting projects. Currently there are a dozen regular members meeting every Monday morning in Hollymount Church hall.
While quilting is the main activity members also work on embroidery, knitting, crochet and lace making. These skills are shared within the group. Some members are experienced quilters but they have novices keen to acquire a new skill. Learning is a shared experience.
The group wish to keep traditional craft skills alive while enjoying the social interaction.
Recently they staged an exhibition of their work in the Church in conjunction with their Harvest celebrations. This was well received. Encouraged by the response they wish to bring their work to the wider comunity. This is both to show case their work but also to attract new members to their group. They hope to encourage others in developing new skills while keeping traditional craft work alive. For prospective new members come along enjoy the craic and make new friendships. For the general public, they hope you appreciate and enjoy seeing their work.
Exhibitions
Theatre Company
MUPPET CABARET CAPERS
DATE: SATURDAY 31 MAY 2025
SUNDAY 1 JUNE 2025
TIME: SATURDAY 7.30PM
SUNDAY 2.30PM
PRICE: FREE (DONATIONS WELCOME)
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
Join us for opening night at Kermit’s new cafe-bar. It’s unlike any other venue in the world and Miss Piggy is hopeful that, with all the money pouring in from its wealthy patrons, she will soon have the wedding of her dreams! Kermie is not so sure - he’s a frog who doesn’t like to be rushed. And with the imminent arrival of world famous diva, Darlene, his head is sure to be turned. The band is ready, the cabaret is ready and the waitresses are ready. What could possibly go wrong? Come along and find out!
Warning: May Contain Nuts
AN INTRODUCTION TO MUSICAL THEATRE
DATE: MONDAY 11TH - 15TH AUGUST
TIME: 10AM - 1PM
PRICE: £25 (DRAMABILITY MEMBERS)
£50 (NON-MEMBERS)
VENUE: DOWN ARTS CENTRE
TUTOR: KATHRYN AIKEN
TICKETS BOOKED WITH DOWN ARTS CENTRE ONLINE or BY PHONING BOX OFFICE
This innovative and inclusive scheme exploring the basics of musical theatre is open to anyone aged 11-25. Young people with disabilities will be particularly welcome. Activities will include singing techniques, dance steps and acting exercises. Participants will learn how to express emotions through movement and voice, work together as a team and build their confidence in performing. The week will culminate in a short performance, allowing everyone to showcase their newfound skills. This will be a fantastic opportunity for self-expression, creativity and making new friends! Kathryn Aiken, who will be running the programme, holds a degree in Dance and Musical Theatre and also completed her Masters in Musical Theatre at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. She has a wealth of experience as a performing arts instructor and is really looking forward to the week. No prior experience of dance or drama is required but a willingness to join in and have fun is essential!
DRAMABILITY SUMMER SCHEME
This year the Dramability summer programme will take place the week beginning 28th July. This will include pantomime themed workshops, drama-based games and exercises as well as a range of personal development and team building activities. It is open to all members currently registered with the Dramability group. Our very popular cafes will once more be ‘popping up’ over the holiday period and we are again expecting a visit from some of our Disney favourites. So much to look forward to!
VOLUNTEERS
With such a busy season ahead, Dramability are currently seeking to recruit new volunteers who can support the activities of the group. If you can make a cup of tea, press play on a laptop, tidy up, offer a helping hand or simply keep a watchful eye, then we need you! Of course, if you fancy taking to the stage and have a go at performing yourself, then we would also love you to get in touch.
There is no minimum time commitment, so even if you can only commit to one or two sessions in the summer that would be much appreciated. You know you want to so please message the Dramability Facebook page today! We would love to hear from you.
DOWN ARTS CENTRE CRAFT SHOP
Down Arts Centre hosts a craft shop in the reception area of impressive artwork, pottery and jewellery sourced from artists across Ireland. Pieces range from beautiful ceramics by Jakki Tranor & Aine McKenna, decorative pottery by Mount Ida Pottery (Trevor Woods) to art prints from Connor Maguire and The Belfast Print Workshop, as well as magnificent, affordable jewellery from local artists, Ghost and Bonesetter, Quirky But Fierce and Diane Lyness.
So for that special gift for you or a loved one, pop in and discover our beautiful, original jewellery, ceramics and art by local artists.
CONDITIONS OF SALE FOR PERFORMANCES / WORKSHOPS / CLASSES
• Tickets cannot be exchanged, or money refunded.
• Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in performance.
• The Management reserves the right to make any change to the programme without prior notice.
• The Management reserves the right to refuse admission.
• The Management reserves the right to request that ticket holders leave the premises and take appropriate measures to ensure compliance with such a request.
Located in the heart of Downpatrick, Down Arts Centre produces a programme of arts events throughout the year; including exhibitions, live theatre, music entertainment and comedy performances, as well as a wide range of workshops and classes.
BOOKING INFORMATION
The Down Arts team are pleased to let our customers know we now have online booking from our website www.downartscentre.com
You can still call us on 0330 137 4014 or drop in to book tickets.
Open to the public Monday to Friday 10am – 4.30pm
Down Arts Centre, 2 – 6 Irish Street, Downpatrick BT30 6BP
