Latest News

Fancy yourself as the next

Spielberg or Michael Moore?

Strabane’s Alley Theatre is set to host a small film festival and workshops, aimed at developing the talents and inspirations of young people interested in developing a career in producing films or working in television on September 18th from 10 a.m.

Participants to this FREE event will able to watch 3 short films and then meet the directors and producers involved in the films. This is a unique opportunity to meet, discuss and question some of the leading directors in Northern Ireland and find out how you can kick start your film career and develop possible ideas for future productions.

“We are delighted that award winning Margo Harkin, the managing director of Besom Productions, has agreed to take part in the film screening “ commented John Kerr, Manager of the Alley Theatre. “Margo has worked in the film and television business since 1984 and is an award winning producer/director. Her company is based in Derry and has produced work for BBC, RTE, TG4, Channel 4 Television and international broadcasters. Margo’s work has spanned from short film, to feature film, to documentary. Her award winning film ‘HUSH-A-BYE-BABY’ has also been distributed worldwide.

“Her more recent work includes ‘BLOODY SUNDAY- A DERRY DIARY’ which was made over a period of 6 years in the lead up to the publication of the tribunal of Inquiry Report into the events on Bloody Sunday and has been screened internationally, and ‘WAVE RIDERS’ which is an ambitious documentary about surfing in the West of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Film is about the journey of top Irish and Irish American surfers as they trace an unexpected Irish connection to surfing and strive to meet the latest challenge of big wave tow surfing in Ireland.”

Also appearing will be David Lanrock from MGTV, an award winning premier broadcast and corporate video producer based in Northern Ireland. MGTV has produced several broadcast programmes including ‘Inside the Consulate’ for BBC 1 NI, ‘Secrets of the Lough’ for BBC1 NI and ‘Idir Dha Chomcaire’ for TG4.”. For more information contact the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 7138 4444 or visit the Alley Facebook Page.

Calling all expectant mums!

Strabane Surestart is calling on all expectant mothers within the Strabane catchement area to book their FREE tickets for the forthcoming “Mums2Be” event, set to be held at Strabane’s Alley Theatre on September 30th from 7 p.m.

“Mums2Be is an essential local event for any expectant mother to attend. Whether its your 1st baby or your 5th, the information session’s, advice stalls and guest speakers on the night will be offering expert guidance on how to make your next delivery and first few months with baby the most informed possible” commented Jacqui Doherty from the Alley.

“As well as a host of information stalls, the gallery space will provide a wonderful area for expectant mums to check out the latest offers from leading nursery retailers inlcuding Linton and Robinsons. Whilst the intimate theatre space will be turned into a fantastic fashion show arena, offering the latest trends from North West fashion stores.”

“The evening offers the perfect reason for an busy expectant mother to take some time out, enjoy the fashion show, advice stalls and refreshments and learn more from leading experts within the childcare field.”

“Don’t forget the event is free to attend, however expectant mums should pre-book their FREE tickets by collecting them at the Alley Theatre Box Office, with patrons limited to 2 tickets per person. Please don’t hesitate in getting your tickets, as almost 50% of available seats have already gone!” For further information contact the Alley Theatre on 028 7138 4444.

Hate crimes tackled in Strabane play

The issue of homophobia and hate crimes in modern society was tackled this week in Strabane, when a new production of Philip Ridley’s play “Vincent River” was performed at the Alley Theatre by Belfast’s Prime Cut Productions.

This current production, which has toured to both Dublin and Belfast, was highly anticipated by drama fans from the North West and in particular the local Strabane LGBT Community Group, who were heavily involved in promoting this new production amongst their members and the wider community. The play tells the story of Anita, a bereaved mother, who has to come to terms with the murder of her son in a brutal homophobic attack. A young man, Davey, who “found” Vincent’s body, follows Anita to her home and their resulting conversation lets the story of Vincent’s tragic death unfold.

Gina Gallagher from Strabane LGBT stated “This gripping play was the ideal vehicle to raise the issue of hate crimes within the community and discuss how we view others from different backgrounds or sexual orientation within our own community. In 2009 a Garda survey stated 46% of gay men and women in the Republic of Ireland suffered from hate crimes, while the PSNI have recorded134 homophobic hate crimes in the North between 2008-2009.The sad truth however is that many hate crimes go unreported and what is recorded in these statistics could be seen as merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of the real situation within Northern Ireland.

“Prior to the play, Prime Cut Productions offered a thought provoking and fun workshop for local people to join in, which challenged the participants in their attitudes and beliefs and I believe was a great success in helping people better understand not only their our own views, but that of others. Finally as part of the event, we held a small exhibition in the Alley’s foyer entitled “Different Voices Making Different Choices” by the Derry based group “Headliners”. This innovative exhibition, which was supported by the PEACE III North West Cluster Project, was produced by young people from Donegal and Derry and was designed to challenge the prejudices and treatment the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender community suffer in our community.”

Cllr Michaela Boyle, Chairperson of Strabane District Council, stated at the launch of the play and exhibition, “I hoped from today’s workshop and play, the community groups and members of the public represented here tonight will take away with them an increased knowledge and understanding of the social exclusion experienced by the LGBT community. On behalf of Strabane District Council I would also like to congratulate the local Strabane LGBT group upon receiving the Belfast Pride “Community Group of the Year”, a major achievement for such a hard working local group”.

The production of Vincent River at the Alley had been been funded by the Community Relations Unit of OFMDFM through Strabane District Council Good Relations and in association with Belfast Pride. For further information about the play visit www.primecutproductions.co.uk

Want to take part in Strabane’s biggest

community panto?

Have you ever wanted to be a panto baddie? Shout “He’s behind you” on stage, dance in the chorus line or even dress up as a panto Dame? Well Strabane’s Alley Theatre could make your dreams come true when it hosts an open call for actors and actresses to take part in the forthcoming panto production of Aladdin.

This fantastic new production will be directed by celebrated panto Director, Aodh McCay, is association with Puddle Alley Stage School and hosted at the professional, award winning Alley Theatre, Strabane.

“Aladdin is set to be the biggest Panto held within the North West in the last 25 years” commented Nathan Flatman, Marketing Officer for the Alley Theatre. “Set within the intimate, professional surroundings of the Alley, this wonderful community panto will be a great opportunity for local people to get involved on stage, have some fun and learn new skills. It really doesn’t matter if you are an award winning actor, played a shepherd in the school nativity or have never stepped on stage before, all we want to see in potential cast members is loads of enthusiasm and a fun outlook!”

“If you want to get involved in this fantastic show, which will be performed at the Alley in January 2011, then all you have to do is pop along to the Alley on September 18th from 1 p.m. onwards. It’s an open call, so you just need to bring yourself along, no prepared text is required.”

“We will need actors of all ages and abilities, so why not join in the fun and become part of Strabane panto history in this new fantastic production!” concluded the Alley’s marketing officer. For further information please contact the Alley Box Office on 028 7138 4444.

Fermanagh artist, Diane Henshaw

set to exhibit at the Alley

Strabane’s Alley Theatre announced this week that one of Ireland’s best known creative artists, Fermanagh based artist Diane Henshaw, will exhibit her new collection of work “Border Lines” at the impressive gallery space at the Alley from September 13th until October 10th.

Originally from County Antrim, Henshaw developed her work in Belfast at Queen Street Studios Artists Collective for just under a decade, before moving to Tempo in County Fermanagh. Her artwork has traveled all over the world now, including major exhibitions within China, New Zealand, New York, Las Vegas and Mexico. Shortly after her exhibition at the Alley, Diane will travel onto Tokyo to display her current exhibition.

“This will be a fantastic exhibition for the gallery and a major scoop for the Alley to have someone of the artistic calibre like Diane Henshaw exhibiting at the Alley. We expect large numbers from across the North West to visit this groundbreaking new exhibition which will run until October 10th. Diane’s work mainly focuses on the creative use of paper and line in music composition, challenging the viewer in their perception of art” states Leanne Kelly from the Alley Theatre. For more information on the exhibition contact the Alley Theatre on +44(0)28 7138 4444, check out the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/thealleytheatre or click here.  

Border youth highlight respect and

diversity in the North West.

Last week saw Strabane’s Alley Theatre and the Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey present a dramatic theatrical conclusion for this summer’s Border Youth Drama Project. Presented to packed audiences in both venues, this groundbreaking arts scheme, supported by IFI (International Fund For Ireland), has been exploring various themes of diversity, peace and reconciliation over the summer holidays, culminating in a stage performance of song, music, comedy and drama. 

“Border Youth is now a firmly established success story in the North West, bringing together over 40 young people from Donegal and Tyrone in a collaborative project that leaves a lasting legacy of theatre skills and friendship between young participants in the border areas” commented Kieran Quinn, Chairman of the Balor DCA. “During the project children have learnt how to socially mix with each other, explore new skills and gained a new found confidence in themselves which they can now use throughout their lives. As the course has progressed I have personally seen how well the young people have mixed as a group and this has developed a new sense of friendship and respect across the borders, which would not have been possible if it had not been for this wonderful summer project.”

"I would like to personally congratulate the International Fund For Ireland for supporting this hardworking project, which we know is making a real difference to the lives of young people living in the border areas” concluded the Balor DCA Chairman.

“The summer has just been awesome, I have really enjoyed it and I look forward to seeing if I can do it again next year”  exclaimed Caoimhne Quinn, one of the young people taking part in Border Youth, on the dedicated Border Youth Facebook page. “I’ve made loads of new friends and I know we will keep in touch”. Border Youth has utilized every possible communication tool to ensure students were kept informed before, during and after the project. Social media tools including a podcast recording, dedicated Facebook page and website were all utilized to engage the young people on the scheme.

Winston Patterson, board member of the International Fund for Ireland, stated “I am delighted with the very professional way in which the Border Youth event was organised. It was very evident from the performances in both pieces of theatre that an enormous amount of thought and work had gone into the summer camp in preparation for both shows. The sensitive treatment of the themes of respect, diversity and reconciliation was impressive and a true measure of the success of the programme so far."

Strabane District Chairperson, Cllr Michaela Boyle commented at the final night of the scheme, “Over 5 weeks ago these young people did not know each other. In fact many of the young people would not have even traveled to their respective home areas of Strabane or Ballybofey. However through the medium of the arts, the actors you see on the stage have achieved far, far more than putting together an evening of drama and song. This group has developed friendships that will last into adulthood, increased their understanding of other communities and found new levels of confidence in themselves. The reach of this scheme is not confined to the walls of this venue and the students taking part. This year has literally seen the world invited to find out more about Border Youth via a dedicated web site page, Facebook site and a podcast.  I must congratulate IFI and everyone involved in developing this unique project, which has allowed everyone to see what great work is being produced by the young people in the North West.”

Strabane’s Alley supports

Lifford's Hi Sir! Facebook phenomenon

Strabane’s Alley Theatre has had to issue an official denial to a rumour circulating the North West this week concerning the hit internet sensation, Hi Sir! It has been rumoured that Hi Sir! is set to perform his worldwide hit, The Facebook Song, at a secret gig in the Alley in the forthcoming months, a suggestion denied by the Alley Theatre marketing department.

“We are delighted to hear of the success of Hi Sir! and his Facebook song, which has attracted over 70,000 hits on YouTube and featured on the official YouTube front page and also the Facebook Stories website” commented Nathan Flatman at the Alley. “At present we are receiving numerous calls and emails from not just the UK and Ireland, but also America and Australia, in reference to a special secret gig at the Alley Theatre. I am sorry to say that Hi Sir!, who has already performed at the Alley in another guise, will not be performing his song at the Alley this season.”

“Obviously the Alley will listen to public demand for acts and if Hi Sir! starts to attract even more listeners to The Facebook Song and his YouTube page then you never know what will happen. It has also been rumoured that David Fincher, director of the new movie “The Social Network”, based on the story of Facebook, is set to use Hi Sir! and the Alley for the Northern Ireland launch of his film. Once again the Alley can confirm we have had no contact with Mr Fincher’s people in reference to using the venue.”

“The Alley Theatre has one of Northern Ireland’s largest theatre Facebook pages offering news, views and video links, so we are delighted that Hi Sir! has been so successful in highlighting the power of Facebook as a communication tool with the public. We wish him every success in the future and look forward to his rumoured follow up song about Twitter” concluded Nathan Flatman, the Alley’s Marketing officer. For more information about the Alley’s Facebook page and the Hi Sir! denial visit www.facebook.com/thealleytheatre.

North West students light up the Alley!

Over the last two weeks Strabane’s Alley Theatre has been the training centre for over 12 sound and lighting engineers, who have been benefiting from a unique new technical course, supported by Concensus and in association with Derry’s Playhouse Theatre.

The Alley’s Technical Officer, Andrew Orr and his qualified technical team took over 12 participants through a groundbreaking OCN Level 2 Sound and Lighting Qualification, the first time this qualification has been held in Strabane.

“The course participants came from all backgrounds with varying amounts of technical experience in arts venue” commented the Technical officer for the Alley Theatre, Andrew Orr. “As the programme developed you could see the confidence and skill levels increase with every student and I was delighted that on the final session everyone passed the course with top marks.”

"In Northern Ireland the vast majority of people live with a 30 minute drive time of a major arts centre. These centres are a hub of creativity and are now major employers within Northern Ireland. With the announcement of the City of Culture status coming to Derry~Londonderry and arts centres like the Alley Theatre in every major town in the province, the opportunity for employment and further experience for students on our scheme is tremendous. I would like to thank all the participants on the scheme for working so hard and congratulate them on their achievements and personally thank Concensus and the Playhouse theatre for their support during this course. 

“Concensus, a new initiative supporting community and voluntary, trade union and other organisations in developing new services, resources, and approaches with the participation of members of their client groups” commented Rosaleen Gallagher from Concensus, who are funding this new initiative at the Alley Theatre, Strabane.

“While the prospectus describes a range of activities for all learners at all levels and backgrounds, two themes that are common to all: participation and sustainable communities. Through a range of activities Concensus supports the participation of learner’s in identifying and addressing local issues through significant but nonetheless achievable local- or issued based – actions. All activities are learner led and learners may achieve recognized certification for their process. We are delighted with the success of this recent OCN Level 2 in Sound and Lighting Course at the Alley and hope the participants succeed in achieving further training, experience and employment in the future.”

John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager concluded “This OCN Level 2 in Sound and Lighting qualification was only made possible due to the funding and support from Concensus and the Playhouse Theatre, therefore on behalf of the students I would like to thank them for their support. This groundbreaking course will now leave an educational legacy with all the participants, which they can now build upon in their new roles or courses. For more information about the scheme check out the latest new page on www.alley-theatre.com.

Border Crossings - A Roaring Success!

Standing ovations completed the Border Crossings Gala Performance on Friday and Saturday night past at An Grianan Theatre and Strabane’s Alley Theatre, as the sounds of great music from Kintra and participants on the Border Crossings Music Scheme came to a conclusion.

Students from across Tyrone and Donegal came together for two special music and dance performances, sharing the stage with the impressive Donegal Irish fusion band Kintra, offering a perfect example how hard work and dedication can produce friendship, shared experience and amazing performances.   The Border Crossings project was supported by PEACE III and coordinated by Nora Kavanagh of An Grianan Theatre Letterkenny in association with Strabane’s The Alley Theatre.

Participants on the course came from Omagh, Strabane, Letterkenny and the Donegal Gaeltacht and engaged in a five-day performance workshop, which included Music and Dance direction. The course culminated in a unique 30-minute performance programme at both venues, delighting family friends and the general public with their overall musical and dance skills.  Matt McGranaghan and Georgina Kee of Kintra facilitated the program in an exhilarating and memorable fusion of cultures from both the Scottish and Irish traditions, leaving a wonderful educational and arts legacy amongst the students.

“Participants ranged from Highland dancers to hip-hop, contemporary and Irish dancers along with classical and traditional musicians” commented Nora Kavanagh from the An Grianan Theatre.  “One of the particular highlights was an outstanding traditional arrangement of Lady GaGa’s “Telephone”, which was performed with dance accompaniment choreographed and musically directed by Matt and Georgina.   The Border Crossings students’ performance was followed by a stomping performance from Kintra who raised the roof with their excellent musicianship and dance.”

“Alongside the performance programme there was also a series of community workshops in music and dance on both sides of border with participants ranging from toddlers to senior citizens. This exciting new venture aimed to encourage a coming together of communities and a celebration of our future and it certainly achieved its goal.”

New Alley events guide

set to sparkle this season!

The new Alley Theatre Winter Events Guide was launched this week by Vice Chair of Strabane District Council, Cllr Thomas Kerrigan, at the award winning Strabane venue with the help of Paul Coyle and Laura Patton from P. G McGillion Motors of Sion Mills, sponsors of the Alley Theatre and the North West Irish fusion Trad group Kintra, who perform at the Alley on August 7th.

To download the new guide click here.

“The new Autumn/Winter events guide will be distributed from August 6th onwards, however tickets have already gone on sale for a host of new shows at the Alley!” commented John Kerr, Manager of the Alley Theatre. “We now only have limited tickets for the hit new Scottish comedian, Kevin Bridges, star of Channel 4’s “Stand Up For The Week” and Michael McIntyre’s “Comedy Roadshow”. Tommy Fleming returns after a 12 month break to sing a collection of some of his greatest hits on September 11th, while The Fureys and Davey Arthur set to take centre stage at the Johnny Crampsie Festival on October 21st””

“The Alley is always at the heart of the local community and once again we have a vast selection of shows including top local performers, school children and talented local actors. Castlederg’s Much Ado Stage School will be appearing for 4 nights with the hit West End show Annie in November, while the Strabane Marie Curie Cancer Care branch will be hosting two fundraising events over the Christmas period, one of which will include the magical Derg Valley Choir and St Joseph brass Band. Comedy will play a great theme this season with Kevin Bridges, Conal Gallen, Tim McGarry and Kevin McAleer all set to appear in this season. We are particularly delighted to welcome Des Bishop to the Alley for his new stand up show, My Dad Was Nearly James Bond, a fantastic show which has stormed Australia this year and is set to entertain at the Edinburgh Festival. Des will be with us on November 26th, so early booking recommended.”

“We have some fantastic musicians appearing this season. From the world’s finest, Ulster Orchestra, the superb Tommy Fleming, Trad fusion group Kintra (August 7th), to the infectious sounds of the Johnny Crampsie Music Festival, we will have something for everyone. A particular high point of the season will be the return of Ballet Ireland, who will be performing the world famous ballet “Romeo and Juliet” (Oct 27th), a must see for all dance fans. Don’t forget if you like your music with a bit more sparkle, glitz and glamour, then you can’t miss the Foyle Follies, the show everyone will be talking about, as they share their hit show with Strabane patrons for the first time on December 3rd at the intimate Alley Theatre.”

Brian McGillion from P.G McGillion Motors commented “The Alley is a tremendous resource for the district and this season has some wonderful shows, exhibitions and workshops on offer for all ages. As a local businessmen and parent I feel the Alley is doing great work towards the regeneration of the district and promoting the talent we have here in the North West.” 

John Kerr concluded. “For the young ones we have the hit children’s theatre group Cahoots NI coming to perform the magical show “Leon and the Place Between”, City Theatre Dublin with “A Wish For Santa” and we have also just release tickets for the hit wrestling bout, the American Invasion Tour! Featuring a host of top names from the USA, Mexico, Japan and Europe, the last time the tour appeared in Strabane we had a special appearance from Goliath, star of Sky 1’s Gladiators. The final line up has yet to be announced, however expect a right royal rumble in the Alley on October 14th with all wrestling fans urged to book early for great seats”

“This season the Alley has some of its most ambitious shows and exhibitions planned for the intimate theatre and gallery space, including the launch of the new Strabane and District Camera Club Exhibition ( August 9th onwards). If you want to find out what’s coming to the Alley, check out the Alley website at www.alley-theatre.com, become a friend of the Alley on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thealleytheatre or check out the new brochure, available from August 6th.

Kintra and Guests coming to the Alley!

Tickets have just gone on sale for a special performance by Kintra and participants of the Border Crossings Summer Music Programme at the Alley Theatre on August 7th. Participants on the scheme have been working for a number of weeks in music and dance master classes with Kintra, a collection of musicians and artists widely recognised for their spellbinding fusion of Scottish and Irish music and dance.

“Kintra are leading the way in music at present in the North West, touring across the island of Ireland and into America this year. A number of gifted local musicians and dancers have had a unique opportunity to work with Kintra, which is set to culminate in a wonderful show at the Alley on August 7th” commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley.  “Offering local musicians the chance to work with Kintra has been an amazing opportunity and will certainly develop local talent even further. The Border Crossings Summer Music Programme is a new initiative funded by Peace III and administered by the An Grianán Theatre, Letterkenny in partnership with the Alley Theatre, Strabane.”

“With the musical genius of Matt McGranaghan on lead fiddle and breathtaking Georgina Kee leading the dance, participants on the course have had a tremendous experience and it looks like this collaboration show at the Alley will be something truly special for the audience.” To book tickets, priced at only £8, contact the Alley Theatre on 028 7138 4444 or click here to book online”

Strabane’s emerging artists

hold groundbreaking exhibition

at the Alley

Finally after 12 months of hard work and dedication emerging artists from Holy Cross College and Strabane Grammar School are set to display their work in a new exhibition entitled “Smart”.

Work by A-Level and GCSE students will be displayed in a new exhibition within Strabane’s award winning gallery space at the Alley from 12 noon July 5th until July 30th.  “This new exhibition, which is free to visit, shows the exceptional talent currently working in the North West. Displaying a variety of traditional work from print, Illustration and painting, the exhibition also features some amazingly diverse pieces set to steal the show including some breathtaking fashion pieces, sculptures and 3D oils. The professional work that is being displayed at this stage shows that there are a number upcoming artists in the local area that art collectors should keep an eye out for in the future” states Leanne Kelly from the Alley Theatre.

“There are several pieces of art work that stand out personally to me, with a number linking into what is happening in society today with topics such as street violence, drink, drugs and crime addressed. Making art relevant to society has been a major theme for the exhibition and we are delighted to see the final pieces on display at the Alley.”

Pat McCabe the Alley Theatre’s curator commented “This exhibition will be one of a kind for Strabane, with its varied work and strong themes it has something for everyone.” A new website will be launched to compliment the exhibition in October. Place at www.alley-smart.com, the new site will feature video clips and interviews with students talking about their work. The website will explain how students got the inspiration and ideas for some of there art work and how they went about putting together the exhibition. The Smart exhibition will be on show at the Alley Theatre from July 5th until the July 30th. For further information contact the Alley Theatre on +44(0)28 7138 4444 .

Turbulent EDDY wins

Sounds Like Summer 2010!

Donegal’s rock band Turbulent EDDY rocked the Alley last weekend, snatching the Sounds Like Summer crown against tough competition from Derry and Strabane bands, eager to be seen as the next big band to come out of the North West.

With over 200 people packed into the Alley to see 4 great bands play live and perform their own material it wasn’t long before the audience knew it was going to be an epic final night of this popular North West music festival. Over 5 nights, 50 bands, only 4 bands made it to the final, including Strabane’s Catalyst, Derry’s Rainy Boy Sleep and the Flying Castros, however it was eventual winners Turbulent EDDY which not only took the title but also the prize of a professional video shoot, studio time, photoshoot and marketing support.

On the night the first on stage was Lifford born, Derry singer songwriter, Rainy Boy Sleep, who wowed the audience with a range of quality material, which he later went on to share in the Celtronic Music Festival in Derry. Songs such as Ambulance and I Heart Holidays had the audience transfixed, as this quiet performer offered a stage presence far beyond his youthful years. 

Strabane’s Catalyst was the only local band to make the final stages, however this great band certainly produced an outstanding set. Driven by the vocals of local star musician Gav Kelly, he was backed up by his backing band, complete with accordian, violin, mandolin, drums and bass guitar. “The judges loved ‘Legends of Arranmore’” commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley, “If the band can get air play for this wonderful song we are sure some record producer will snap them up. “

Derry’s The Flying Castros, certainly made an impact on the night, with the judges commenting that the band had “the most charismatic front man of the competition.” With such a strong vocal, singer Damien and his Flying Castros immediately captured the audience’s attention and held them there throughout their 30 minute set.

Turbulent EDDY was the last band to take to the stage and they did not miss the opportunity to take the festival by storm. A regular on the Irish festival circuit for a number of years, the band has grown in experience and stature year on year.

The band was knocked out in the heats stages last year, however we were delighted they decided to come back and their hard work has certainly paid off. The band now receives a professional video shoot, studio time, CD production, marketing support and a photoshoot. We would like to thank our sponsors, the Strabane Chronicle for their support during the festival and wish Turbulent EDDY the very best fro the next 12 months as Sounds Like Summer champions!” concluded Nathan Flatman from the Alley. For more information on the Sounds Like Summer festival check out www.facebook/thealleytheatre.

Sounds Like Summer 20:10 Final

line up announced!

With bands from across the island of Ireland fighting it out to be included in Strabane’s Sounds Like Summer Music Festival, this magical festival for unsigned bands is set to conclude this week with the grand final on Friday 25th at 8 p.m. at the Alley Theatre.

“The quality of the bands in this years festival has been a tremednous success and a perfect reflection of the great local music scene happening in the North West” commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre. “This Friday music fans from across the North West have 4 great bands to pick from, only one will walk away with a superb music industry prize, marketing support, studio time and a CD produced.”

“Turbulent EDDY from Donegal have made it through to the final in the first heats, with a fantastic professional performance which will certianly put them in contention for the prize. Catalyst from Strabane, starring Gav Kelly on vocals are sure to have a strong local following, as the band hope to win the title on their home patch after a great qualifying heat on June 18th. Londonderry will be represented by two bands in the final, firstly Rainy Boy, a breathtaking acoustic singer songwriter, and the Flying Casto’s, who pipped the highly fancied Furlo to the final spot.”

“The judges have had a really tough time this year in picking heat winners, especially in the final heat when both the Flying Castros and Furlo, who both put in a superb 20 minute set. Tickets to see the grand final are only £5, with the bar open from 7 p.m. for festival fans. For more information or to book your seats visit www.alley-theatre.com  or contact the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 7138 4444”.

All the fun of the Fair in Strabane!

Strabane Fair events kick off on Friday evening 25th June with the launch of the 24hr Artahon which will happen in ASDA’s 24 hour Store with artists from both Strabane and Donegal taking part which will culminate in an exhibition in the Alley Gallery from 2pm on Saturday. While running alongside the launch at the Alley Theatre at 8pm will be the finale of Sounds like Summer bands competition  to decide who will be this year’s winner from amongst stiff competition from throughout the region.

On Saturday the Farmer’s market will operate for the full day from the Canal Basin providing the back drop for the days events and in  the Alley Courtyard where they will be joined mid day by other stall holders to create our own unique food festival. Specialised food markets and catering demonstrations from professional chefs from Oysters ,Mambo Jax Catering and  Masala will take place along side  demonstrations from the Women’s Institute showing traditional fayre .Strabane Ethnic Community Association will also showcase international foods at the Alley court yard during the afternoon’s event.

At 1.30 the Carnival parade will take to the streets with community groups and samba bands from all over the district joining local bands and groups to create a carnival atmosphere. Glenside Training Centre and Lifford Recabcare adults have been working on new carnival pieces with help from SECA and students from the Holycross  Collage arts department. If you feel you would like to help us to showcase their work please contact Council on 02871382204.

Workshops have been on going in the various schools and the children will be in the parade with Streetwise, plus artists and performers from multicultural traditions which will add a new dimension to the show. All the children have been enthusiastic in practising their new skills in music or dance routes, so please come along and show your support.

In keeping with this year’s theme Strabane Fair Day, Past and Present on Saturday 26th of June our events at the Canal Basin will reflect this time period throughout  the day. Our stage performers, Craic, Dixie Kings and Knotty Pine  will plays songs reflecting the various music eras. This will be intermingled with performances from our young people who under the initiative delivered as part of the Peace Cultural, Heritage and Identity programme,  have learnt about multi- cultural dance and music, costumes. They will perform along side professional artists from Arts Eska and Gathering Rhymes at front  of stage while else where our young people will perform short street dramas reflecting Strabane history of hiring Fairs. Puddlealley drama group will also perform a short showcase during the afternoon.

Indeed no Fair would be complete without the sideshows entertainment and Strabane will have professional street performers and buskers to entertain the crowds in the Castle street area alongside the stall holders and retailers. In the Canal basin, we will have stalls, bouncy entertainment, olde time games, archery and at 3pm the Bark to Basic Dog Show.

Given the various workshops that have taken place in the district over the past months funded under the Peace III North West Cluster Special European Union Programme, there will be more fringe events happening into the evening for people to join. Artists exhibition and demonstration in the Alley Gallery  will take place from 2pm

The evening performance in the theatre is an culmination of story gathering around the history of the area in the Donemana, Newtownstewart, Castlederg and Strabane which will be staged at the Alley theatre at 7.30pm 26th June 2010 and supported by readings from Wilson Burgess on reflections of past times..

Finally at 8pm, Music 4Uth local young bands who are working under the guidance of Terry McCafferty will perform on our outdoor stage in the Alley Courtyard. Also new music created from Garage music workshops undertaken by the Nerve Centre tutor Martin McGill in Castlederg will be showcased there.

A weekend of activities to suit all ages and tastes!.  

Alley set to host Bike Fest launch!

Strabane District Council and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to: “Inspire Communities to get Active Together” through its own local “Bike Fest”. The Festival will take place over a two week period from 13th – 27th June and will include a range of activities and events to encourage local people to “get on their bikes”.

The Chairman of Strabane District Council, Councillor Michaela Boyle explained: “This innovative two-week festival is aimed to help improve the health and well being of people in Strabane District through increasing their participation in physical activity initiatives such as cycling. Strabane District Council is delighted to host this worthy event in partnership with the Public Health Agency”.

Activities will kick off the Alley Arts Centre Courtyard Strabane on Saturday 19th June between 2.00pm and 5.00pm. There will be a display of mountain biking skills, a husky biking display and a selection of weird and wonderful bikes from the Pat Gillespie Collection. Cyclists will also be treated to a free bike service/MOT session by trained bike mechanics who will also give free cycle maintenance advice.

Over Bike Weeks 13th – 27th June, other activities include a range of cycling tours throughout the district. A beginners cycling tour of Strabane`s section of the North West Trail will commence on Sunday 20th June meeting 10.00am at the Tinnies Strabane. Another beginners cycling tour of the Derg Valley Cycle Route will take place on Sunday 27th June, meeting at 10.00am at Church Square Sion Mills.“Bring along your bike and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Strabane District has to offer” urged the chairman.

Alternatively, if you prefer cycling in the gym, a beginners spinning session will also be held at Riversdale Leisure Centre on Wed. 23rd June from 8.00pm – 8.45pm. Places are limited and for over 15’s only. Contact Riversdale Leisure Centre, Strabane on: 028 7138 2672 to reserve a place.

Philip Faithfull, Chief Executive of Strabane District Council added: “Bike Fest gives everyone the golden opportunity to dust off your bikes and get out on the road. Physical inactivity is a major cause for concern and this initiative allows citizens to engage in gentle exercise and meet new friends. Why not join one of the beginners cycling tours during Bike Fest?”

Seamus Mullen, Public Health Agency commented “ We are pleased to support Bike Fest as a key element of the PHA/Local Government Joint Working Arrangements. At the recent Future Search Conference, physical activity was highlighted as a major priority by citizens from Strabane District. We have reacted to these wishes and will target investment into increasing physical activity in conjunction with Council over the coming years”.

Imagine a “view between”

at the Alley

Strabane’s Alley Theatre launched a new exhibition this week from Cork artist, Angela Fewer, her first exhibition in Northern Ireland in her 15 year career.

Entitled “Trans-Scapes (A view between), this groundbreaking new exhibition is one of a select series of works by Angela, which have also been exhibited at the Temple Bar in Dublin and at the prestigious Form Gallery in Cork.

“Light, line and space are the important elements in Angela’s work and her new exhibition “Trans-Scapes (a view between)” displays a series of outstanding pieces of work” commented the Alley’s curator, Patrick McCabe. “Angela has been exploring the concept of the autonomy of line for a number of years and has developed this exciting new exhibition along this theme, which I personally believe will leave a remarkable impact with the viewer. The exhibition is free to visit, Monday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and runs until June 25th. “

New arts initiative

proves a roaring success!

“Community, creativity and transport” were the themes tackled by pupils at Cloughcor’s St Mary’s Primary School last week, in a special arts and transport project which is also being rolled out to 3 other Tyrone schools on behalf ofP. G McGillon Motors of Sion Mills.

Pupils were challenged to come up with a unique design looking at their own community and the various modes of transport people would use in their area. The final art work will go on display at P.G McGillon’s stunning dealership showroom in Sion Mills and the Alley Theatre later on in the year. “We are thrilled to have helped a number of schools across the North West with this fun community arts project. Assisted by Arts and Business and the Alley Theatre, this project has seen over 150 pupils benefit from a one day workshop with a professional artist.” stated Brian McGillon from P.G McGillon Motors of Sion Mills.
 
“Community, creativity and great design are the essential core values for our company and we wanted to foster these principles in students around the district. We therefore decided as part of our sponsorship with the Alley Theatre that we wanted to roll out a schools based arts project, looking at community and transport used in the pupil’s lives. Dara Hand from Cow Shed Studios visited 4 schools in the area on our behalf and has inspired the students to produce some wonderful artwork. The artwork will go on display at our showroom in Sion Mills over the next 12 months.”

Schools taking part in this project included Sion Mills Primary School, St Mary’s Cloughcor, Donemana’s St Patrick’s Primary School and St Columba’s in Newbuildings.  This groundbreaking arts and transport project was supported by P.G. McGillon Motors of Sion Mills, the Alley Theatre, Strabane and funded by Arts & Business NI.   Speaking after the project, Mrs Lindsey, Vice Principal for St Mary’s School, Cloughcor, stated “Our P5 class had a wonderful time creating and producing the artwork and working with a professional artist. It was a truly unique experience which will leave a wonderful artistic legacy in the minds of the students, which they will be able to draw upon throughout their school career.”

Beverly Coomber from Arts & Business stated “Arts & Business NI sparks and supports partnerships between commerce and culture.  We are delighted to be able to support the partnership between PG McGillion and The Alley Arts and Conference Centre.  This project will not only add an artistic vibrancy to the village of Sion Mills, but will also strengthen the existing excellent community engagement with local community and PG McGillon Motors.”  From September 2010 the school artwork from all 4 schools involved in the project will go on display at the P G McGillon show room in Sion Mills and also at the Alley Theatre piazza space.

Sounds Like Summer 20:10

Final line up announced

Strabane and the North West is set for another sizzling summertime of great music this June as Strabane’s Alley Theatre, in association with the Strabane Chronicle announced the festival line up for this years Sounds Like Summer Music Fesitval. The Alley will be a buzzing hive of great music throughout June as the North West’s largest music festival for unsigned bands enters its third year in the award winning music venue. Once again the festival was inundated with entries from across Ireland and the UK, with the judging panel having a tough job in whittling down the mass of entries to the final 16. Bands set to play at this years “Sounds Like Summer 20:10” include Donegal’s ”Turbulent Eddy”, “Gmily and the Street Soul Orchestra” from Sligo,  Belfast’s “The Dead Presidents” and “Idigo Fury”.

North West bands will play a significant part in the festival, with Strabane’s Indie folk band “Catalyst” and Hip Hop artist Gerard i2 hoping to score a home victory for local talent in the Strabane venue. Derry has a number of bands through to the final 16, with one of the hotly tipped bands to take the festival by storm being named as “Furlo”, who last year performed at Glasgowbury and on BBC’s Radio 1 “Introducing with Rory McConnell”. The festival also witnesses a welcome return of previous finalists, Bettylee and the Blonde, the Indie band from Derry who made a massive impact on stage in 2009.

“The festival prides itself on introducing and developing the very best bands and singers from all genres of music, with this year promising to be an exceptional year. The variety and quality of bands from across the country is simply amazing and a testament to the festival as it develops and gets bigger each year. From the very best of Hip Hop, Soul, Pop, Rock and Indie Folk, the festival will have something for everyone over 5 great nights” commented John Kerr, the Alley Theatre Manager. “In addition to the great music on offer, we are also using this event to raise much needed funds for two charities supported by local colleges. Sounds Like Summer 20:10 will be donating proceeds from the 4 qualifying heats to two very worthwhile international causes. Holy Cross College’s Tanzania Rebuilding Project, who will benefit from the proceeds from the June 11th and 19th heats, whilst the Madagascar Environmental Project, supported by Strabane Grammar School will benefit from the June 12th and 18th heats.”

“The final 16 will now perform at the Alley over 4 nights, with the top 4 groups/singers going through to the final on June 25th.  One act will win a fantastic music industry prize and offer them the next step onto their music career. Last years finalists, the Wonder Villains recently played Radio 1’s Big Weekend, whilst previous winners King Coma and Pavesi have been making massive strides in the music scene since winning. This year the winning band will walk away with a professional music video shoot, studio time to record a CD, professional photoshoot, marketing and media support and a cash prize.” Tickets are now on sale for the heats and the grand final, priced at only £3-5, it’s this best way to spend the summer!

For further information on Sounds Like Summer 20:10 visit  www.facebook.com/thealleytheatre. 

The full line up for SLS 20:10

June 11th

Turbelent EDDY

Bettylee and the Blonde

Gerard i2

Heavey Set Bayonet

June 12th

Rainy Boy Sleep

Let’s Go Zero

Indigo Fury

We Are Burkes Lounge

June 18th

Catalyst

The Curly Person

One Small Victory

Ansua Steyn & Brian O’Sullivan

June 19th

Furlo

The Dead Presidents

GMiley and the Street Soul Orchestra

The Glass House Brothers

“In Other Words” a great success!”

Strabane’s U3A celebrated the launch of their new book this week, entitled “In Other Words” at the Alley Theatre this week. Over 80 people, including Strabane District Council Chairman, Cllr Kieran McGuire and Chief Executive, Philip Faithfull, converged onto the Alley to support the U3A and congratulate Strabane’s new generation of budding writers!

“In Other Words”, is a wonderful collection of poems, local stories and old sayings, which has been successfully critically reviewed by local and national media including BBC’s Art Extra and the Sarah Brett Show on Radio Foyle. Bee McGettigan, Chairperson of the Strabane U3A Branch commented at the launch “Members of the U3A have had a marvellous time writing this book and we are delighted with the final outcome. Our book contains a strong cultural legacy to the next generation including stories, poems and sayings which are no longer used in everyday conversation. If it was not for this book, I fear many of these stories and sayings would be lost in the mist’s of time.”

“I would like to thank the expert guidance of our tutor, Patrick Kearney, who gave our U3A members the inspiration, courage and confidence to complete this 16 month project which is now receiving plaudits across the Northern Ireland. I want to also personally thank everyone who has helped contribute to the book, its publication and today’s launch. Without your hard work this would not have been made possible. Finally I must thank our wonderful funding partners, the Big Lottery Fund, TheTurkington Fund, Strabane District Council, McColgans Foods and the Telecommunity Programme - The Community Foundation for NI for all their support.” The book is now set to go on sale around the Strabane District over the coming weeks.

Want your child to get creative

this summer?

Aged 11-16? Do you want to get involved in the most innovative drama, music and dance camp for young people running in the North West? Maybe you are a parent wanting your child to learn new skills, meet new friends and have a creative summertime? If you have answered yes to those questions, then the Alley Theatre and the Balor DCA have the answer for you! Border Youth Summer Drama Camp, is back for its second successful year offering young people from the North West the ideal opportunity this summer to act, sing and dance in two great professional theatres. Run by top theatre facilitators, the Border Youth Summer Camp will be running from July 19th until August 20th,  in Strabane’s Alley Theatre and the Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey. 

Nathan Flatman from the Alley stated “We have lined up a group of top theatre facilitators who will be offering expert guidance in encouraging participants from across the North West to develop their theatrical skills, meet new friends and develop their confidence on stage. The summer camp concludes with a stunning grand showcase finale at both venues. Places on the Border Youth Scheme are limited, so a open call audition will be held at the Alley Theatre in Strabane on June 17th from 6 p.m. and at the Balor Theatre, Balloybofey on June 22nd from 6 p.m. No experience necessary, just loads of energy required!”

“The scheme is supported by the International Fund for Ireland, and will alternate between the Alley Theatre, Strabane and Balor Theatre, Ballybofey, Co Donegal. Transport between venues has been arranged as part of the project. If you are successful, the cost of participating during the Border Youth Summer scheme will be only £20/20 Euro per week per child. For more information contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444 or Lisa Finn at Balor DCA on 00353 7491 30424.”

New technical course launched

at the Alley

Strabane’s Alley theatre announced this week they will be running an 8 day intensive course for people interested in developing skills in theatrical lighting and sound this summer.

“Running between August 3rd to August 13th for 8 days, candidates will be offered the opportunity to learn about a variety of different technical skills required when working in a theatre or music venue” commented Andrew Orr, Technical Manager at the Alley Theatre. “Participants will learn various different skills during the course, including rigging full lighting sets for drama and music productions, using various lighting gels for maximum stage effect, setting up microphones, speakers, sound desks and much more.”

“The course will be ideal for beginners who are looking to learn new skills or break into the industry. The course is open to anyone over 16 and is an accredited OCN Level 2 course, run in partnership with Derry’s Playhouse Theatre. A small fee of £40 is payable to attend the course, however lunch will be provided every day to participants.”

“Interested in finding out more? Then simply contact Jacqui Doherty at the Alley Theatre on 028 7138 4444 to obtain an application form. The deadline for applications is July 1st, so don’t delay in submitting your form as soon as possible.”

Ulster Bank brings a magical comedy

to the Alley!

The Lyric Theatre in Belfast, where Liam Neeson started his professional career, will be visiting Strabane’s Alley Theatre this summer, thanks to an exciting new partnership with Ulster Bank.

The Lyric will visit twenty different towns throughout the island of Ireland, including Strabane, with a hilarious new adaptation of Moliere’s classic comedy The Miser.  The comic masterpiece will run at The Alley Theatre for one night only on Saturday June 5th at 8 p.m. 

Scottish actor Andy Gray, best known for his role in television comedy series Rab C Nesbitt, will play the title role in this period costume drama, which promises matchmakers, buried treasure, forbidden romance and missing Lords in a spiral of outrageous, comic confusion. Mr John Kerr, Venue Manager at The Alley Theatre said “The Alley is delighted to be showcasing the Miser, a great comedy production from the world famous Lyric Theatre. I would like to congratulate Ulster Bank for having the vision in supportingthe arts and helping people outside of Belfast to see this great show on June 5th.”

Welcoming the announcement of this new partnership, Henry Elvin, Head of Business Banking Northern Ireland at Ulster Bank said “It is widely recognised that the arts have a significant role to play in a modern economy. The long-term strategy for Ulster Bank’s arts sponsorship is to widen access to the arts across the island of Ireland, and we are delighted to be working with the Lyric to achieve this shared goal”.

The Lyric Theatre’s Artistic Director, Richard Croxford, said: “Ulster Bank’s support will enable the Lyric to tour further than ever before, allowing more people in the regions, including the Bank’s customers, to enjoy a truly great theatre experience. This partnership demonstrates how the arts and corporate sectors can work together to make a real and positive difference, and is particularly welcome at a time when cuts in public funding for the arts have reduced provision throughout the country. This production will be a highlight of the season and we can’t wait to take the show on the road to Strabane!” Tickets for The Miser are now on sale from The Alley Theatre. Call the Box Office on 028 71384444 or click here.

The Alley opens the NI tour

of Anne Frank [+You}

The Anne Frank Trust UK today opened a stunning month long exhibition “Anne Frank + You” at the Alley Theatre in Strabane, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. Joining the official launch was Sammy Wilson MP MLA and Mrs Inge Radford, one of Ireland’s last Jewish Holocaust survivors assisted in the opening of the exhibition. Mrs Radford lost her widowed mother and 5 brothers to the Nazi concentration camps in 1942.

Launched in 2005 to give Anne Frank’s story and message a contemporary profile for today, this major display includes a near life size replica of Anne’s bedroom in hiding. It has a strong focus on the issues of identity and moral choice we face in 21st century society. The opening in Strabane is particularly significant as it is the first time the “Anne Frank + You” exhibition has visited Northern Ireland.

Starting from Anne Frank’s writings and experiences, the exhibition is a journey of self exploration for the visitor. Themes that Anne wrote about in her diary, such as racial hatred, war and conflict and the value of democracy and freedom, are presented in an up to date and contemporary fashion, along with filmed interviews with teenagers discussing their own views, concerns and hopes for the future.

“The story of Anne Frank not only reminds us about what has happened in the past, but also what is happening in society today. This exhibition will be an ideal way to inform our community about the need to stand together and support those in society who need our help and support. Anne’s short life shows us what can happen when hatred and extremism goes unchallenged, we therefore intend to challenge and stimulate discussion within our community about what are the best ways forward in offering everyone an equal place in society today” stated Cllr Kieran McGuire, Chairman of Strabane District Council.

Steve Nimmons, special advisor to the project - “The Anne Frank exhibition provides an exceptional opportunity for young people to discuss and truly understand the value of tolerance and its importance in our society. The beauty of Anne’s writing, the tragedy of her short life, and yet the ultimate truth that hope and understanding triumph over repression and hatred is exceptional, powerful and ultimately life changing.”

Strabane District Council and the Community Relations Council are funding this project in association with the Cultural, Heritage and Identity programme, which is supported by the Peace III programme and managed for the Special EU programmes Body by the North West Peace III Cluster.

The significance of the opening is further amplified, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.

Anne Frank exhibitions have been visited by over 3 million people from across Britain. They continue to provide a unique experience for visitors to learn more about the story of Anne and the history of the Holocaust. For further information on the exhibition contact the Alley Theatre on 028 7138 4444 or visit www.facebook.com/thealleytheatre.

Brass bands offer

Strabane Springtime fanfare!

The sounds of brass music could be heard from every corner across Strabane this weekend, as the North West Music Festival welcomed the Brass Band League of Northern Ireland Spring Competition to Strabane’s Alley Theatre.

Over 16 bands competed in this prestigious competition, which saw Belfast’s Laganvale Metal Technology Band not only scoop the top prize in the championship section, but also for Best Soloist (Clive McBride) and for Best Percussion.

Strabane’s St Joseph’s Brass Band and Strabane Concert Brass Band both scored very highly in their rounds, with St Joseph’s just missing out on the top spot in the Second Section by only 1 point, beaten into second by the Downshire Brass Band. Strabane Concert were just 3 points off the lead in the championship section, narrowly being beaten into third by overall champions Laganvale Metal Technology Band and 1st Olds Boys Band.

“This is the second year the Brass Band League of Northern Ireland has held their spring festival competition in Strabaneand we are delighted this year has been another tremendous success” commented Thomas Barr, festival director. “Strabane has two leading brass bands, both of whom performed fantastically in the competition. The festival atmosphere, wonderful music and friendly camaraderie between the bands from across Northern Ireland made this years festival very special. I look forward to welcoming back this successful competition next year to the Alley Theatre which is surely one of Northern Ireland finest music venues.”

For more information on who won what and pictures from the festival check out  the “Alley Theatre Strabane” Facebook page or click here to be redirected to the Brass Band League of Northern Ireland results page.

Want to be part of a leading

UK exhibition?

The call is going out across the North West for potential volunteers looking to come forward and get involved in the new Anne Frank (+You} exhibition, set to be held at the Alley Theatre, Strabane from May 10th until May 29th.

Cllr K Maguire Chair of Strabane District Council stated “Strabane District Council are extremely privileged to be kick starting the NI tour of this prestigious exhibition which we hope will have a significant contribution from the local community. We are calling on the volunteers across the district to come out and support us in the running of this event which will attract a huge influx of visitors to our district throughout the month of May.”  Marirose Cunningham Volunteer Co-ordinator with the North West Volunteer Centre has teamed up with the Strabane District Council and the Alley Theatre in a bid to recruit a number of volunteers to help out take visitors and groups around the exhibition as official guides. “If you have just a few hours a week or even a few weeks to spare where you could be a guide or steward for the exhibition then we would like to hear from you. Volunteer roles include welcoming visitors to the exhibition, distributing information, school tour guides and bookshop stewards – full training will be provided by the Anne Frank Trust.  Volunteers will be required for 3/4hour sessions on a rota basis. Travel and lunch expenses will be paid” stated Marirose.

Closing date to register your interest as a volunteer is 16th April 2010. Anyone interested in volunteering must be 18 yrs of age or over.  For further information on becoming a volunteer at the exhibition please contact either Marirose Cunningham (North West Volunteer Centre, tel: 02871 38 18 00, email: strabane@volunteeringnorthwest.co.uk) or

Jacqui Doherty at the Alley Theatre, tel: 02871 88 47 60, email: jdoherty@strabanedc.com

Musicians wanted for top

North West Music Festival!

 
The Alley Theatre is Strabane is calling out to musicians across the island of Ireland to get involved in this summers SLS 20:10 music festival, one of the Northern Ireland’s leading festival’s for unsigned bands!

Now in its third year, Sounds Like Summer (SLS 20:10) has been steadily growing since its debut in 2008. In its first year, SLS attracted acts from areas like Donegal, Derry, Fermanagh, Belfast, Dublin and Omagh, however last year’s event took on a much more international flavour, with bands from across Ireland, England and even America throwing their names into the Sounds Like Summer ring.

Now we want you! Do you play in a band? Are singer songwriter? Want to take the next step on your music career, then enter SLS 20:10!

Last year, it was Strabane band King Coma who captured the spoils. They remain in talks over a possible record deal and continue to enjoy huge exposure on the Irish festival scene. Runners-up last year were Derry band The Wonder Villains and they too have been enjoying huge post-Sounds Like Summer success. The band have recently recorded their feel-good single Oh Peter which became the anthem for last year’s festival. It too has become a popular request on many of Ireland’s leading radio stations. And now, with the winter months behind us and the summer stretching gloriously ahead, it is your turn. The Alley Theatre, in association with the Strabane Chronicle are calling all bands or soloists, regardless of age or genre, to get involved. From rap artists to trad bands and from rock stars to gospel choirs, we need you!
 
Once again, SLS 20:10 comes with a first prize of the opportunity to cut your own single and shoot your own video, working alongside one of the  North West’s finest recording teams. Meanwhile, you will also receive a set of professionally shot photographs of you and your band, a must for anyone trying to make a mark in the music industry. The first qualifying rounds will be held on-stage at the Alley Theatre over the weekend of June 11th and 12th. The second round of qualifiers will be on June 18th and 19th, with the grand final set for June 25. All acts shortlisted for the qualifiers will receive payment for their performance and selection will be based on consideration of a short application and a sample CD. The CD must contain one original track by the artist/band. So whether you have entered before, you are a newcomer or a seasoned pro, we want to hear from you. Want to get involved? Simply apply for an application pack, which you can download by clicking here or email jdoherty@strabanedc.com. Deadline for entries is 4pm on May 21.

Major drugs seminar coming to the Alley

When we think of drugs we often consider substances such as cocaine, ecstasy, heroin and speed. Although most people have an awareness of the drug culture within the North West, most feel far removed from the knock on effects it has on individuals, families and communities. As reported in the nationwide media, new "legal drugs" are now available within our community, one  of which is easily available, affordable and most of all ‘Legal’. This drug is called Mephedrone. On this basis, The Divert Project in partnership with Strabane Community Safety Partnership, Foyle Drug & Alcohol Forum & HURT will host a public information session on Tuesday 13th April at 7.30pm in the Alley Theatre, Strabane.

So what is this drug which is sweeping across our communities; devastating families; damaging our society and worst of all shattering lives? Mephedrone is a Legal high, which basically means it is a drug which is not controlled under the misuse of drugs act therefore it is legal to possess. It is not however, legal for human consumption as the chemical compound has never  been tested on humans. 

Mephedrone within that is described as a ‘synthetic  or designer drug’ which means that the drug is created to get around the drugs law. The drug is made up a number of  different c0hemicals, all of which, can be modified depending on the law. The lead service provider for Alcohol and Drug Education, Prevention and Early intervention, DIVERT are only too familiar with the Drug and have seen a major increase in the number of young people and adults using the drug since before the Christmas period.

Brónach, Coordinator of Divert said, “ We are working strenuously to raise the awareness of the effects of this drug and have been inundated with calls from concerned parents in relation to their children misusing the substance. This drug is not targeted at any particular subset of our society. We have children as young as 14 using mephedrone as well as young adults who have been hazardously taking the drug over a number of days without a break.”

Divert have professional workers on the ground who are trained and skilled to offer educational advice and support in relation to mephedrone and other substances and would encourage any young person or concerned parent to come forward to the project for help. For more information why not come along to the Alley and find out the real facts on April 13th at 7.30 p.m. Free admission.

Summer has arrived at the Alley!

As we try to forget the cold Winter and wet Spring, Strabane’s Alley Theatre has something to lift all our spirits, the new Summer Events Guide! Packed cover to cover with some of the top names in entertainment from the island of Ireland and the USA, the Alley has brought together a wonderful mixture of shows which has something for everyone to enjoy this summer.

From the hit comedy of Jason Byrne, Conal Gallen and Adrian Knight, the Alley will also welcome top bands including Kila, The Wall's Brothers and festival sounds from Sounds Like Summer, supported by the Strabane Chronicle. If you are a drama fan, then you are in for a real treat as the Alley welcomes the world famous Belfast Lyric Theatre and their new production of "The Miser", directed by Dan Gordon and starring Scottish film and TV actor, Andy Gray. “If you recently attended the Strabane Drama Festival, then you are sure to enjoy this comedy drama romp” commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre. “The Lyric has a marvelous reputation for offering the very best in drama and this new production will be no exception. Watch out for the comic twists and turns in this new production produced by Dan Gordon, star of the BBC’s hit comedy “Give My Head Peace”.

The Alley and Strabane will be the focus of nationwide media and public attention when it launches the first part of the Northern Ireland tour of the Anne Frank (+You} Exhibition this May. An internationally acclaimed exhibition, which has toured across the UK, the Alley is delighted to assist in bringing this famous exhibition to Northern Ireland for the first time. “The exhibition not only tells the story of Anne Frank and her legacy to the world, her Diary, but it also looks at how as citizens we need to stand up against cases of discrimination, hatred and violence” 

“This is only a small snapshot of the new summer programme which will be posted out to patrons from April 8th, however it is available to download from the Alley website today, simply click here. As always tickets are on sale from the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444 or by booking online by clicking here." concluded the Alley’s marketing officer, Nathan Flatman.

The Alley set to host

Northern Ireland launch

of the new Anne Frank Exhibition.

Strabane’s Alley Theatre is set to host the Northern Ireland launch of the award winning Anne Frank (+You} exhibition this May confirmed representatives from Strabane District Council. This groundbreaking exhibition will have its official Northern Ireland launch at the Alley, which organisers say will be supported by a number of workshops and performances for people across Northern Ireland to engage in.

Famous around the world, this poignant exhibition is anticipated to draw in visitors and groups from across the island of Ireland, keen to understand more about the legacy left by Anne Frank and showing the relevance in today’s society of views she expressed in her celebrated diary. At the heart of the exhibition, entitled Anne Frank (+ You} is a life-size replica of her bedroom in the secret annexe above her father's business premises in Amsterdam. This small space is where the Frank family, and four other Jews, spent more than two years in hiding before being betrayed to the Nazis in the summer of 1944.

Visitors will experience the room where Anne confided in her diary about her hopes, ambitions and perceptions about conflict and the human condition. To reach the “secret annexe” room in the exhibition, visitors must firstpass through a multi-media display which explores the themes that dominated her life and a tunnel on the Holocaust and genocides around the world. Themes of Identity, Prejudice and Racism, Conflict and Peace, Moral Responsibility, and Freedom and Democracy are all addressed on giant exhibition panels which carry significant excerpts from Anne's diary, along with examples of present day issues in picture and print, whilst televisual displays of teenagers of today discussing the issues in a 21st century context can also be viewed.

The exhibition was developed and is run by the Anne Frank Trust UK, who worked alongside its sister organisation the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, and an award winning creative team, to create a unique and challenging experience for young people that will interest and motivate them. Strabane District Council and the Peace III Programme, managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by the North West Peace III Cluster Group  are funding the exhibition, which will see thousands tour the exhibition whilst its runs at the Alley Theatre between May 10th - May 29th.

“The story of Anne Frank not only reminds us about what has happened in the past, but also what is happening in society today. This exhibition will be an ideal way to inform our community about the need to stand together and support those in society who need our help and support, whilst protecting their human rights. Anne’s short life shows us what can happen when hatred and extremism goes unchallenged, we therefore intend to challenge and stimulate discussion within our community about what are the best ways forward in offering everyone an equal place in society today” stated Kieran McGuire, Chairman of Strabane District Council.

“The Trust promotes positive attitudes in young people towards differences particularly in age, gender, ethnicity, religion and disability, and encourages people to reject all forms of bigotry. The Trust’s Executive Director Gillian Walnes explained: “The intention of Anne Frank [+ You} is that visitors, particularly youngsters aged 11 to 17, will be able to relate the horrors that befell victims of the Holocaust to the world around them, and recognise the need to challenge injustice and to contribute to a society built on mutual respect and moral courage to prevent such things happening again. This is an exhibition unlike any other that is touring Northern Ireland and will be a major talking point.”

“Over three million people have taken part in Anne Frank Projects in the UK and we are delighted that Strabane District Council and the North West community can share the clear message of peace and tolerance that Anne Frank left to the world over 65 years ago this year” stated Philip Faithful, Chief Executive of Strabane District Council. “Her legacy has not only taught us about the horrors of the Holocaust, but can also serve as an inspiration to young people, making them strive to make a difference in their own lives by becoming more active citizens.”

Richard Collins, a leading Northern Ireland Holocaust expert commented “The Anne Frank (+You} Exhibition” offers visitors the inspiration to break down personal and community suspicions and mistrust, and instead open the hand of friendship across the barriers. Young people in schools, community groups, colleges and so many other places are being inspired by Anne’s story, urged to look beyond our own small ambitions and to create a greater vision which will benefit all of humanity.”

Ms Walnes from the Anne Frank Trust UK concluded she was particularly pleased the exhibition is being launched in Strabane’s prestigious Alley Theatre and Art Gallery, “To have such a visually exciting multimedia display in this stunning venue is going to be terrific for us and the North West of Ireland.” For further information on the forthcoming exhibition click here or contact the Alley Box Office on 028 7138 4444.

Test Drive the Arts at the Alley!

A major new online initiative designed to entice thousands of people from Strabane and the North West to ‘test drive’ the best of Northern Ireland’s thriving theatre and performing arts scene was launched this week at the Alley Theatre, Strabane. A new website, www.testdrivetheartsni.org, will enable for the first time anyone in Strabane and the North West area a chance to get guest tickets to some of the hottest shows playing at the award winning Alley Theatre this year, including Jerry Fish and the Mudbug Club, Kila and Fidget Feet’s Madam Silk.

The initiative is managed by Audiences NI - set up to boost attendance numbers to arts organisations across Northern Ireland – and funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Under the scheme, prospective audience members can log on to the website to gain access to a range of performances including music, opera, theatre, comedy and dance.  Audiences Northern Ireland Chief Executive, Steven Hadley stated  “Northern Ireland has a rich cultural and artistic heritage that is enjoyed by thousands of people every year. Yet many have not experienced the full range of arts experiences on offer. We want to change that. The principle behind testdrivetheartsni.org is simple – it’s about giving would-be arts enthusiasts who have never visited the venue before the chance to ‘test drive’ the arts, whether that’s opera, drama, music or comedy!”

“The new website lists a wide range of shows available. Simply select the performance you are interested in attending and complete the registration form online to request tickets. Tickets will be regularly available on a first-come, first-served basis, so the sooner you go online the better the chance you have of securing the tickets you want. There are huge benefits to using the online offering. You can browse the website in your own time and request tickets when it suits. We have teamed up with KDS Systems so whether you have internet access at home or not, free internet kiosks are available at selected locations across Northern Ireland. There are few places in the world that offer the diversity and quality of performances that are readily available right here in Northern Ireland and we hope that after experiencing a live performance you will want to come back time and time again!”

Arts Council Board Member Tony Kennedy commented  “Building audiences for the arts is a priority for the Arts Council, and Test Drive the Arts NI is the perfect incentive for tentative newcomers.  There’s an amazing choice of arts activities on offer out there for all ages and interests and, if they just give it a try, we know people won’t look back.”

“As one of the leading arts venues in Northern Ireland we are delighted to be involved in such a prestigious and groundbreaking scheme” commented John Kerr from the Alley Theatre. “Test Drive the Arts is open to our UK patrons who has always wanted to visit the Alley, but never had the chance. This is a unique opportunity to visit the Alley and  enjoy a great night out in the theatre and hopefully wet your appetite to see more shows at our award winning venue. Tickets to see Jerry Fish and the Mudbug Club and Madam Silk will be online at www.testdrivetheartsni.org from Friday, March 29th, however don’t delay in registering as tickets are limited. If you do miss out on the free tickets, you can still purchase tickets at www.alley-theatre.com  ” 

Deadline looms for exhibiting artists!

Now seen as one of the leading art galleries outside Belfast, the Alley Theatre and Art Gallery is currently being overwhelmed by artists submitting work for consideration to exhibit in the Strabane venue. . If you are an artist looking to exhibit at this wonderful art gallery, John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager stated today, “Don’t delay in submitting your exhibition applications, as the deadline for entries is only weeks away. Artists have until April 16th to produce an artist submission, which will then be reviewed by our panel of art critics.”

From the international artist Felim Egan, the highly respected UTV Art Collection, celebrated Irish glass-sculptor Sean Campbell to local artists like local photographer Raymond McCarron and Strule Art Group, the Alley has exhibited a wide variety of work. Now the Alley is seeking new artists to join the list of esteemed artists who have exhibited at the Alley Theatre and submit an application for exhibition slots, which are available from September 2010 up until July 2011. For more information on what is required or for an application pack, please contact  Jacqui Doherty at the Alley Theatre on tel: 028 7188 4760 or email jdoherty@strabanedc.com for a submission pack. 

“For artist’s looking to see the space available at the gallery we advise them to check out the Alley’s Gallery 360’ online tour, which can be viewed via our website at www.alley-theatre.com or why not pop down and see the new exhibition by Irish artist, Barbara Freeman, currently on display until April 10th” concluded the Alley’s manager.  

Want to be a star this Easter?
 

Are you looking for a project to inspire your children this Easter? Maybe you  are aged between 11 to 17yrs-, well if you are the Alley Theatre and Strabane District Council have an opportunity you can’t afford to miss! Drama workshops under the expert guidance of London Based drama company Youth Music Theatre: UK is coming to Strabane’s Alley Theatre from 6th to 10th April and we want you to take part!

At present the scheme is already 80% full, however we have places for just a few more young people interested in learning new skills, bolstering your confidence on stage and making new friends this Easter. This exciting drama programme is part of the Strabane Spring Arts and is funded by Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Strabane District Council. It will comprise of a five day intensive drama project called the “Queen of the Underground”, which is set to take place at the award winning Alley Theatre, Railway St. Strabane.

“It is two years since the YMT: UK last came to Strabane”  commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre “ This year’s drama project will run from 9.30am to 7pm daily under the guidance of Alison Goldie, West End Drama Director and her colleagues Simon Jenning and Michael Bradley. At the end of the scheme, the participants will then perform on the famous Alley stage in an evening performance for family and friends. Limited places are available, but be quick in booking your place as they are nearly all gone!”. To book your place or find out more information contact Jean Smyth, Arts Development Officer at Strabane District Council on 02871382204 /07730900610 or email jsmyth@strabanedc.com.

Actor Dan Gordon set to judge

North West students

The North West Schools Drama Festival, which is being organised by the Strabane Drama Festival Committee and will be held at the Alley Theatre in Strabane, is delighted to annouce this groundbreaking festival will have a special celebrity guest judge for the two evenings, actor and TV star, Dan Gordon. Currently directing a play with the world famous Belfast Lyric Theatre and star of the hit BBC Show “Give My Head Peace”, Dan Gordon stated he “was delighted to be involved in this fantastic grass roots festival, which will tap into the acting talent the North West has to offer”. The festival is being funded by the Good Relations Section of Strabane District Council, and is supported by the office of the First Minstster and Deputy First Minister

Dan is excited with the prospect of developing the North West Schools Drama Festival, which will see High Schools and Colleges from across the district compete to be festival drama champions. “I think this is a great idea for the North West, not only will it help students learn more about acting, but as time progresses it will offer a stepping stone for even bigger things” commented Dan. “When I was younger and competing in school drama festivals I worked alongside guys like Dermot Murnaghan, who through working on stage developed his skills and confidence to move into television and journalism. Wallace McDole was another contemporary who found school festivals essential in developing his skills, he went onto work at the Lyric as a production manager. I know several others who went onto acting, directing, technical or dance roles in Ireland and across the UK, simply down to how inspired they became through the schools drama festival scene.”

As students take to the Alley stage, Dan admits to being jealous of the resources now on offer to students, “when we competed it was all about getting changed in cold classroom, no proper dressing rooms and the stage lights were often a bit unreliable to say the least. Now pupils can benefit from superb venues like the Alley Theatre in Strabane, backed up with great lighting and sound, a relaxing theatre space for the audience, proper dressing rooms and even a box office to help sell the tickets…. we had to make do with raffle ticket stubs.”

Dan will be the adjudicator for the 2 day schools drama festival and hopes he will have the chance to pass on some of his skills and thoughts to the students over that period. “If I could meet a young Dan Gordon just about to start out I would advise him that acting is all about listening, watching and reacting. Feed of the energy from the other actors and the audience. Watch as many actors as possible….and steal the best ideas!”

Ciaira McCay from the Strabane Drama Festival Committee stated “We are delgihted that Dan Gordon has agreed to be the festival adjudicator; he has a strong history in supporting grass roots acting and is a product of the drama festival scene himself. We have performances lined up from pupils including Holy Cross College in Strabane, Dromore’s St Johns High School, St Cecilia’s In Derry, Ballygawley’s St Ciarans and Thornhill College in Derry. The schools will be offering an exciting mix of work including pieces written by the students to Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible”.

Currently Dan is working on numerous projects, including directirng the forthcoming production of “The Miser” from the Lyric, which will be appearing at the Alley later in the summer. “I am really looking forward to this new festival and I urge everyone in the community to get behind these young actors who are making their first ever big production.” Tickets are now on sale for the North West Schools Drama Festival, only £4, £3 (con).

“We know its Feb....but we are already planning the biggest Strabane community pantomine in the last 25 years!”

It might be only weeks ago that panto was storming the stages at theatres across Northern Ireland, however Strabane’s Puddle Alley Stage School are already busy preparing for “Aladdin”, a new community pantomine which organisers hope will be the biggest panto to be performed in Strabane over the last 25 years. This wonderful family panto is set to be held at Strabane’s award winning theatre during January 2011, with the show director Aodh McCay already asking for local people to start preparing to get involved. 

Aodh McCay, who will be writing and directing this new panto production, stated at the launch, “We are delighted to annouce today that Puddle Alley Stage School and Theatre Group are launching an open audition for actors of all ages, whether you are 5 or 105, who want to get involved with the panto. We want to see as many people as possible on September 18th at 1 p.m. at the Alley Theatre for a series of open audtions for all roles in the panto. I am already planning the script, ordering the costumes and designing the set, so what we need to ensure now is that everyone who has ever wanted to step out on stage in a family community panto now has the chance to audtion this September. We will need both adults and children for this wonderful community panto, which will take place in Janaury 2011.”

“Have you ever fancied yourself as an Arabian Princess or the handsome Aladdin? Do you want to cast your magic spell as the Gennie of the Lamp or play the panto baddie! Don’t forget no panto will be complete without a wonderful panto dame or a chorus full of dancers and singers. Whatever your skills or previous stage knowledge, whether you are a a total beginner, the odd school show or an Oscar winning panto baddie, put “Panto Day Auditions” in your calender for September 18th and make your way to the Alley. We are delighted to audition anyone who is keen to get involved in what we are planning to make the biggest community panto in the North West!” For more information check out the Alley Theatre website at www.alley-theatre.com or contact the alley Box office on 028 7138 4444.

It’s a Cultural Thing, or is it?  

270 school children and teachers enjoyed a riveting performance of the play “It’s a Cultural Thing, or is it?” this week at the Alley Theatre. The performance was organised by Strabane District Council’s Good Relations section in partnership with Derry Travellers Support Group. The play aimed to raise awareness of Traveller culture, to encourage participation, promote integration and build mutual understanding.

During the performance, actor and playwright Michael Collins presents his story in a poignant and often funny way. Michael recounts his childhood memories of a traditional Traveller life and the move from their barrel top wagon and tent in Killbeggan to a halting site in Dublin. Throughout the play Michael strives to convince his daughter to remain at school, while a narrator charts the changes in the welfare system in a microcosm of the history of the Travellers over the past 40 years.

Participating pupils came from Holy Cross College, St Eugene’s High School, North West College and Castlederg High School. The young people got a chance to ask Michael Collins questions on Traveller beliefs and life in an interactive session after the play. The schools were also offered workshops to explore some of the issues raised during the performance. Feedback from both the play and the workshops was excellent, adding an extra dimension to the citizenship teaching pupils are involved in during class.

Speaking about the project, the Chairman of Strabane District Council, Councillor Kieran McGuire said: “Strabane District Council is committed to the promotion of equality and good relations in the Strabane District. We feel that it is particularly important that people gain an insight into other traditions and minority groups, including those from the Traveller culture, who live in the community. It is important that respect, understanding and tolerance for all cultures are fostered and that they are welcomed into the district.”

Can Love conquer all?

Strabane's Alley Theatre and Ballybofey’s Balor DCA, supported by IFI (International Fund for Ireland), are pleased to announce this week a new project has started which will see the development of a new touring play, “The Parting”, which is set to highlight the 400th anniversary of the Irish Plantations.

“The Parting” has been written by celebrated playwright, Jonathan Burgess, and already has a packed touring programme, which starts with a North West tour from early February. John Kerr, the Alley Theatre Manager stated "The play looks at the story of Sir John Cameron who has arrived in The Finn Valley having received 2,000 acres under the new Plantation of Ulster scheme in 1610, a scheme devised by the British King, James I, intended to bring prosperity and peace to a  troubled province.”

“Sir John’s plan does not go smoothly, as he faces tough challenges from Dermott O’Neill, a veteran of The Nine Years War and typical of the resentment borne by the native Irish towards the new Planters. The play looks at the relationship between the two men and their grown up children, Sir John’s son Alexander and O’Neill’s daughter Dervla. A love develops between Alexander and Dervla, however will the vast divide of religion, loyalty and land be too much for the young couple?"

James Kee, from the award winning Solus Centre in Bready, who will be hosting the production on February 18th, stated “The Parting has been written by celebrated local playwright, Jonathan Burgess, author of the hugely successful Theatre-in-Education play “Fair Faa Ye”. The production looks at the challenges faced by the native Irish and British Planters, challenges that have been seen as the root cause of disharmony between the communities in Ireland over the last 400 years. This play offers a unique view on the plantations, offering both perspectives entwined with a gripping love story.”

The play is set to tour the North West schools and community groups from February 8th (Glenfin), Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey (Feb 16th) Killeter (Feb 17th), the Sollus Centre (feb 18th) and Grange Court, Newtownstewart (Feb 20th). For more information contact the local venues, visit www.alley-theatre.com/about-us/the-parting-- or contact Lisa Finn at Balor DCA on 00353 74 91 30424 (NI) or 074 9130424 (Republic).

Strabane organisations take the

spolight at Arts and Business Awards

Strabane’s Alley Theatre and CRAFT Training ensured the North West of Ireland were well represented at the recent 2010 Arts and Business Awards, seen by many as Northern Ireland’s very own Arts and Business Oscar night.

The Alley Theatre, recogised by critics as the leading arts centre outside Belfast, was nominated for the “Arts Organisation of the Year”, whilst their marketing officer, Nathan Flatman, was shortlisted for the prestigious “Arts Individual of the Year”. It was however CRAFT Training, the Strabane based training organisation, with branches also in Omagh and L’Derry, which received the highest praise on the night from the Arts and Business panel of judges, being highly commended in the category for the “Young People Award”. The special commendation was for CRAFT’s unique arts, joinery and decorating course, in partnership with the Alley Theatre, which saw young CRAFT trainees learning professional set building skills, which assisted the Alley’s successful panto in 2009.

“We are delighted to have been shortlisted for so many awards this evening, it was a huge honour for myself and the Alley Theatre to have been shortlisted. We are very proud that the Alley Theatre and CRAFT Training led the way for the North West, the only organisations from the North West to make the awards shortlists on the night” commented Nathan Flatman, marketing officer from the Alley Theatre. “CRAFT training has been a dedicated sponsor to the Alley Theatre since we opened three years ago and have seriously benefitted from involving arts related projects within their business. CRAFT trainees have now taken part in several arts related projects, with support from Arts and Business NI. By working with the Alley Theatre and Arts and Business NI, CRAFT are standing out from other businesses and training organisations within the North West, offering creative ways of solving problems, improving skills of their trainees and inspiring young people to look at different options.”

Seamus Nealis from CRAFT NI stated “Tonight has once again presented a huge spotlight on the talent that Strabane and the North West has to offer. We are delighted to have received this special commedation from Arts and Business for our work with young construction trainees and we look forward to offering new arts related projects to our trainees in the future”. For a full report on the 2010 Arts and Business Awards click here.

Are you an artist looking to exhibit

at the Alley?

The Alley Theatre and Art Gallery is now looking for submissions to exhibit within their award winning gallery space in Railway Street, Strabane.  From the international artist Felim Egan, the highly respected UTV Art Collection, celebrated Irish glass-sculptor Sean Campbell to local artists like local photographer Raymond McCarron and Strule Art Group, the Alley has exhibited highly prized exhibitions to the local North West community over the last 3 years. Now the Alley is seeking new artists to join the list of esteemed artists who have exhibited at the Alley Theatre and submit an application for exhibition slots which are available from September 2010 up until July 2011.

For more information or an application pack, please contact the Alley Theatre administration office via Jacqui Doherty (Tel: 028 7188 4760) or click here to download a submission pack.  

For artist’s looking to see the space available at the gallery we advise them to check out the Alley’s Gallery 360’ online tour, simply click here to be redirected. You can also download a floor plan of the gallery, which includes measurements, simply click here.

Artists unite for HURT

North West bands were congratulated this week by the leading North West charity, Hurt (Have Your Tomorrows), for their successful Christmas fundraising gig at Strabane’s Alley Theatre, which raised funds to assist in the essential work of this hardworking support organisation.

Entitled “The Homecoming”, this fantastic charity night on December 30th enabled music fans to come together over the Christmas period and hear some of the best bands in the North West performing live on stage in aid of HURT, a charity aimed at providing support to drug and alcohol users and their families in the North West and reduce the incidents of suicides in the North West. BT Sounds Like Summer Champions King Coma from Strabane, Avari, Catalyst and Donegal’s Pavesi performed at the intimate Alley Theatre producing a series of stunning sets for thrilled music fans.

HURT (Have Your Tomorrows) was founded by Sadie O’Reilly, who tragically lost her son Tony, through a Heroin drug addiction in 1999. Because of the heartache that Sadie and her family experienced at that difficult time, Sadie’s mission was to provide support to drug and alcohol users and their families. Her passion, determination and ambition resulted in the founding of HURT and subsequently HURT has been dedicated to the memory of Tony.

 “We would like to thank all the bands for supporting our charity. It was a very enjoyable night and we are delighted to see all the support from the local community towards this wonderful charity night” commented HURT’s Sadie O’Reilly, “If anyone would like more information about HURT, please contact 028 7136 9696 or visit our website at www.hurtni.org.uk”.

The Alley Theatre wins Prestige

Access Award

The William Keown Trust recently celebrated the very best in access and design for people with disabilities, with Strabane’s Alley Theatre scooping a major prestige access award, highlighting the venues excellent design, access and service to people with disabilities. The Alley Theatre received the William Keown Trust’s coveted Prestige Access Award, with judges commenting on the attitude and approach of their staff and for their foresight in making their premises, both internally and externally, barrier free and user friendly for everyone to use and enjoy.  

Trust Founder and Chief Executive Bill Keown MBE  congratulated the numerous recipients at the annual award ceremony and urged everyone to remember that even small modifications to buildings can make a great difference to the lives of so many and congratulated the winners for all their hard work.  Speaking after the awards, Jacqui Doherty from the Alley Theatre stated “The Alley is a very modern, intimate and community based arts centre and we are delighted to have been recognised by such a prestigious organisation. The William Keown Trust have worked so hard to ensure new buildings are designed and planned to give safe comfortable access and appropriate service to people from all backgrounds and needs. We would like to thank the William Keown Trust for their wonderful award, which once again confirms the Alley as one of the leading and most accessible arts venues in the North West”.

Santa visits the Alley bearing gifts!

Santa Claus dropped into Strabane’s Alley Theatre to deliver an early Christmas present to John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager, namely the new Spring 2010 Alley Events Guide! Packed full of information concerning the new season at the Alley, this award winning venue has a programme packed with music, drama and entertainment for all ages in 2010.

“The Alley Theatre is going from strength to strength next year with top names set to appear including Colin Murphy from RTE’s “The Panel”, CBeebies star Patrick Lynch and his children’s show “The Dustman”, Give My Head Peace and country star Jimmy Buckley” commented John Kerr. “We also welcome for their Alley debut the fantastic Irish trad band Beoga direct from their US tour, the celebrated Lyric Theatre with their new play “The Absence of Women”, Keith Matthews from the BBC1 “One Show” and the Strabane Drama Festival, now seen as the leading drama festival in the North West.”

The Alley Spring 2010 Events Guide is currently being posted out to Alley patrons across the North West and is available from the Alley Box office or patrons can simply download a copy from the Alley website at www.alley-theatre.com/about-us/brochure.

The Alley Theatre Wins National Personal

Safety Award

Northern Ireland’s Alley Theatre, based in Strabane, has won the prestigious Safer Workplace Award at the National Personal Safety Awards 2009 presented by The Suzy Lamplugh Trust in London last week.

The National Personal Safety Awards were held at the Hilton Hotel in London, with the Alley scooping the top award of the night, the “Safer Workplace Award” sponsored by Royal Mail. This was a tremendous achievement for the Alley Theatre, who faced tough competition from organizations from across the UK and Northern Ireland in making the finals shortlist and was delighted to be announced winners at this star studded gala night.

“The Alley Theatre is delighted to be recognized for our hard work in promoting personal safety amongst staff and user groups” commented John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager. “The Suzy Lamplugh Trust is recognised around the world as being the leading authority on personal safety and to win recognition at their recent awards ceremony was a tremendous achievement for The Alley Theatre, Strabane District Council and our staff”

The judges said that measures the Alley Theatre took to improve personal safety was incredibly thorough, and what particularly impressed them was the fact that as well as risk assessments, training and policies, they actually effected a culture change, so that all employees are now encouraged to openly discuss any safety concerns and to plan their working day with safety in mind. It was very clear to the judges that this was not a tick-box exercise, but that the Alley Theatre places the personal safety of its staff at the heart of everything it does. Also shortlisted for the Safer Workplace Awards were Norfolk County Council and EDF  Energy.
 
Ann Elledge, Director of Personal Safety at Suzy Lamplugh Trust, said “The National Personal Safety Awards were established by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust two years ago to recognise the achievements of organisations, workplaces and individuals around the country in promoting personal safety. We were extremely impressed by the calibre of nominees this year and The Alley Theatre were deserving winners against impressive competition.”  

Alley Facebook Critic Reviews

the Hothouse Flowers.

Northern Ireland's Facebook Critic, Mickey Ferry, reviews the recent Hothouse Flowers gig on the Alley Facebook page. What to know how it went, then please find below an extract. To find out more about the Alley Faceook page or read the full review click here.

The Hothouse Flowers still have the X Factor!

Despite being a live unit for almost 25 years there are no indications that Hothouse Flowers are about to succumb to the role of complacent elder statesmen of Irish Rock, chiming out the tried and tested on auto-pilot. As exemplified on this particular evening in the Alley, there is still no certainty as what Liam Ó Maonlaí and Fiachna O’Braonain will do next. The Hothouse Flowers take their audience around the world, with the musical styling changing not just from one song to the next but, at times, from one verse to the next.

Tonight, they took Strabane to the Afro-American Gospel Halls of the South, and then hitched a ride with Muddy Waters to Blue Chicago after finding some African Roots in classics standards like ‘Your Love Goes On’ and ‘Don’t Go’. At the heart of this trans-global two hours, twenty minutes was an unmovable Celtic Soul that only reinforced just how sweet a thing it is when music travels, marries and merges. Ultimately, there are only two kind of music: good and bad, and this was damn good stuff!

As ever, Ó Maonlaí managed to make scruffy look stylish: barefoot and dressed in a manner that would see the rest of us told to “move along”; the open shirt and long overcoat fitted him like a glove. He looked every inch the rock star poet, like a vagabond in the gutter forever looking at the stars. Only he can pull it off and he does it well. Besides, it was his birthday; he could wear what he liked!

A tale of being arrested for “minor grevious bodily harm” preceded “It’ll Be Easier In The Morning”, scaled down but no less powerful than it was in its 1989 carnation on the band’s ‘People’ album. A beautiful version of ‘Sweet Marie’ had couples snuggling up, which was a bit odd considering it’s a song about the breakdown of a relationship in the Dylan ‘Blood In The Tracks’ mode.

Snuggling to ‘Dear John’ letters done, it was then time to dance! Audience members got up off their seats for ‘This Is It’, as Ó Maonlaí swooned and swooped like a gentleman in need of a lot of room on a dancefloor. ‘Forever More’ and ‘You Can Love Me Now’ illustrated how the absence of the studio choir matters very little when you’ve got Ó Maonlaí and O’Braonain filling in with harmonies to raise any roof. The band got playful again on ‘Your Love Goes On’ with pop, trad and reggae breezing along together. This continued with the African-tinged rendition of ‘Don’t Go’, much to the delight of the dancing audience.

Come the encore and all was forgiven as the Traditional Irish roots of the Flowers came to the fore with 'Cailleach an Airgid’. A foot stomp resonated around the Alley as tin whistles and bodhráns and Irish dancing graced the stage. The set was closed with the very wonderful ‘Hallelujah Jordan’, as the Flowers, after taking us around their catalogue – and the world - for over two hours, took us back to the beginning – a journey worth taking time after time.

Actors needed for new 400th Plantation

Anniversary play
 

2010 will see the 400th anniversary of the “Plantation of Ulster” and to mark this key point in history Strabane’s Alley Theatre and the Balor DCA in Ballybofey will be co-producing a new play, entitled “The Parting” by celebrated playwright Jonathan Burgess. This professional production, which will be touring across the North West and Northern Ireland, is now seeking actors with professional experience to star in the show. Two auditions have just been announced for Tuesday, December 1st at the Alley Theatre and December 2nd at the Balor Theatre, both starting 11.a.m. 
 
John Kerr, the manager from the Alley Theatre stated “This exciting new play will be in rehearsals and performed across the North West throughout January to Feburary and we are seeking 4 actors to perform the main parts in this play. We have an excellent script completed by leading playwright Jonathan Burgess, which looks at the Plantation of Ulster through the eyes of a planter called Sir John Cameron and Dermot O’Neill, a veteran of the Nine Years War. The play includes 2 younger characters, Alexander, the son of Sir John and Dervla, the beautiful daughter of O’Neill. Like Romeo and Juliet the star crossed lovers cross the cultural divide and fall in love, however the path of true love does not always run smoothly.”
 
The play will be in rehearsals from January 2010 and touring throughout February and provisionally into March. If you are an actor with experience on stage, please contact Jacqui Doherty at the Alley Theatre on 028 7138 4444 to confirm which audition venue and slot you will be available for. On the day of the audition please bring along a prepared piece of work (2-3 mins max) and a CV.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust highlights

great work at the Alley!

Strabane's Alley Theatre has been informed this week that the highly respected Suzy Lamplugh Trust, one of the worlds leading personal safety experts, has short listed them for the prestigious "Safer Workplace" award at their annual awards ceremony.  The National Personal Safety Awards were established to celebrate and highlight organisations around the UK who are providing exceptional procedures and support in personal safety issues for staff. With the new nomination, the Alley can now seen as one of the top 3 organisations in the UK for putting personal safety of staff at the top of their agenda, an amazing achievement for this wonderful regional theatre.

The Alley Theatre, part of Strabane District Council certainly impressed the panel of judges, who have been inundated with nominations from around the UK. A representative from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, David Adams, said: “We were delighted to receive a nomination from The Alley Theatre for our National Personal Safety Awards. Their unique and comprehensive application exhibits how seriously the issue of employee personal safety is taken by the management of the Alley Theatre, and we are very pleased to shortlist them for this national award.”
 
Commenting on the nomination, John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager, stated "The Alley Theatre is delighted to have been shortlisted for the annual National Personal Safety Awards, which has seen only 2 organisations from the 12 finalists coming from Northern Ireland. Since the Alley opened in 2007 the Alley has always taken the issue of personal safety for staff very seriously, so we are delighted to see all our hard work recognised by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. With three organisations going through to the final, we are simply overwhelmed with being highlighted as one of the top 3 organisations tackling personal safety in the workplace and the only theatre to have made the final.”

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust was established in 1986 after the disappearance of estate agent Suzy Lamplugh, a 25 year old estate agent who disappeared after she went to meet an unknown client. So far her body has not been found. However, she has been presumed murdered and legally declared dead. Her parents, Paul and Diana Lamplugh, believed that Suzy, like most people at that time - and even now - was simply unaware of the possible dangers that individuals can face in society. Paul and Diana founded the Trust to highlight the risks people face and to offer advice, action and support to minimize those risks. The Trust is now based at The National Centre for Personal Safety in central London, working with a wide range of partners in the public, private and voluntary sector, always seeking new ways to keep people safe from violence and aggression. For more information about personal safety in the workplace click here to be redirected to the official Suzy LamplughTrust Website.

Another Northern Ireland first...

The Alley Theatre has once again scooped the North West and Northern Ireland  arts groups by successfuly profiling and reviewing a show via Facebook live from the Theatre. From the pre-show build, as the curtain was raised, the interval and the final thoughts, Alley Facebook members could read updated comments via facebook from two Facebook Theatre critics who attended the performance. The play, "The Skull of Connemara" was very well received by the audience and the critics, please see below part of the revied, however for the full review visit the Alley Facebook page by clicking here.

The Skull of Connemara review

by Micky Ferry.

Being the second instalment of Martin McDonagh’s ‘Leenane’ trilogy of plays, a blackly comic tone from the off is to be expected, and that’s just what we get from the Love&Madness Ensemble’s production of ‘A Skull in Connemara’. The opening scene blends McDonagh’s well-established combination of ‘Poitin humour’ and unspoken undertones of darkness and suspicion. It’s a format that director, Catriona Craig allows to flow consistently throughout the duration of this production.

Even the very mention of unseen characters like ‘Ray Dooley’, ‘Mag Folan’ and the seemingly tyrannical ‘Father Walsh/Welsh’, who have all in some way or another revealed themselves in either the earlier or later instalments of the trilogy, only serves as a reminder that we should be careful not to get too comfortable with the ‘God Bless all in this house’ surface of the play.

While ‘Mick Dowd’ is set the task of exhuming the remains of the deceased in the local graveyard, including those of his wife, it works in unison with the exhumation of his past: his wife’s death in suspicious circumstances and the wicked whispers that followed. Peter Foley plays ‘Mick’ with a lethargic conviction, as he nonchalantly and ghoulishly slouches from one scene to the next, making us unsure if we’re dealing with Ed Gein or simply a flawed and sarcastic widower.

His permanently intoxicated demeanour is counter-balanced with the naïve, dim-witted but highly-strung idiocy of “eejit” ‘Mairtin’, played impressively by Dylan Kennedy. The pair play off each other with great comedic effect and ‘Mairtin’ also serves as the one to bring the wicked whispers about the past to the table.

The Ensemble make of most of the basic set, and the transition from living room to graveyard is aided considerably by the montage of each character individually preparing for, quite literally, the graveyard shift. Appropriate music and stage-smoke add greatly to the dramatic effectiveness of it all, particularly the Celtic Punk soundtrack, which complements the suggested debauchery of it all. 

To read the remainder of the review visit the Alley Facebook page by clicking here.

“Tonight Matthew I will be ….!”

Last week Strabane Grammar School presented their now annual show  - “Stars in Your Eyes” to a capacity audience at the Alley Theatre, Strabane. Sixteen acts were performing on stage, dressed to impress their compare “Matthew Kelly” and have the audience guessing which act they would be before the famous curtain raises, the smoke appears on stage and the performers state those imortal words “Tonight Matthew I will be ….!”

The show featured a variety of music acts througout pop history, including 60’s idols “The Beatles”, the disco Kings and Queens of the 70’s, the Bee-Gees and Abba and 80’s stars Katrina and the Waves  and Nena. More modern acts like Katie Perry, Taylor Swift and “The Saturdays” took to the stage, ensuring their was something from everyone at this great family show, which involved over 50 performers. The audience were also treated to stunning performances from Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, The Killers and Girls Aloud, with all years from Sixth Form down to First Year students being represented on stage, highlighting the talent in depth within Strabane. 

Ms Hopkins from Strabane Grammar School stated “It was a superb night’s entertainment with some great vocal talent, excellent chorography, all combined with lashings of enthusiasm. I must thank the judges and all the staff at Strabane Grammar who have helped on the show and congratulate all the pupils who took part and gave a performance of a lifetime. All the proceeds raised on the two nights will be donated to two worthwhile charities, Kidney Research and DEPAUL UK, a charity which helps homeless and disadvantaged young people.” 

Flann O’Brien á cheiliúradh

ar an tSrath Bhán

Tá dúiche an tSratha Báin chun ceiliúradh a dhéanamh ar shaol agus ar shaothar duine dá clann mhac is clúití, mar atá, Flann O’Brien, le léiriú suntasach stáitse de ‘An Béal Bocht’, ó Chompántas Amharclainne Aisling Ghéar, in Amharclann an Alley, Dé Céadaoin, 18 Samhain 2009.

Is é Flann O’Brien an t-ainm cleite a d’úsáid Brian Ó Nualláin / Brian O’Nolan, a rugadh ar an tSrath Bhán in 1911. Úrscéalaí agus aorthóir ab ea é agus is iad na húrscéalta At Swim-Two-Birds, The Third Policeman agus An Béal Bocht is mó a thuill clú dó.

In An Béal Bocht, insítear scéal Bhónapáirt Mhícheálangaló Pheadair Eoghain Shorcha Thomáis Mháire Uí Chúnasa, a thagann ar an saol i sráidbhaile samhailteach Chorca Dorcha in iarthar na hÉireann. Ó thairseach an tí – ‘teach beag aol-bhán neá-fholáin. . .é suite i n-ascal a’ ghleanna’ – tá Gaoth Dobhair, Conamara, Gaillimh, Árainn Mhór agus An Blascaod Mór uile le feiceáil! Cé go bhfuil clú ar Chorca Dorcha mar gheall ar áilleacht a thírdhreacha, tá oiread clú air mar gheall ar bhochtanas an phobail ann. Prátaí amháin a bheathaíonn muintir an tí agus is éigean iad a roinnt le capall darb ainm Charlie, scata caorach, ‘bó aosta sheang’, ál sicíní, agus le hAmbrós, an mhuc.

Is iomaí criticeoir comhaimseartha a chuir síos ar O’Brien mar ‘ghinias a cuireadh ó rath’ agus níor thuill sé riamh an clú ná an t-aitheantas criticiúil a shantaigh sé le linn a shaoil. Séanadh an clú agus an t-aitheantas sin air go dtí tús an 21ú céad. Agus ullmhúcháin sa tsiúl chun cothrom 50 bliain lá a bháis a chomóradh, tagraíodh dá úrscéal, The Third Policeman, sa tsraith mhóréilimh teilifíse, Lost - bhí cóip den leabhar le feiceáil ina luí oscailte ar leaba dhuine de charachtair na sraithe. Dá bharr seo, cruthaíodh mór-éileamh ar an leabhar, i Meiriceá agus i Sasana go háirithe. D’fhógair foilsitheoir an leabhair, Harper Collins, go raibh díolacháin tar éis méadú le níos mó ná 3,750% taobh istigh de 3 seachtaine. Chun cothrom 50 bliain lá a bháis a chomóradh, d’fhoilsigh a chara dil, Anthony Cronin, No Laughing Matter: The Life and Times of Flann O’Brien, beathaisnéis O’Brien, agus choimisiúnaigh RTÉ gnéscannán air. An lá inniu, ta glúin nua ag fionnachtain shaothar O’Brien, glúin atá ar bís le haithne a chur ar mheon aorthóra de na haorthóirí Éireannacha is mó cáil.

“Tá An Béal Bocht ar shaothar de na saothair is fearr de chuid Flann O’Brien agus is ábhar mór áthais dúinn bheith in ann an t-aon léiriú den dráma iontach seo san iarthuaisceart a óstáil. Faoi láthair, is í Aisling Ghéar an t-aon chompántas proifisiúnta amharclainne in Éirinn a bhíonn ag saothrú go lánaimseartha chun scoth na léirithe a chur ar fáil i nGaeilge. Léireofar an dráma i nGaeilge amháin, ach beidh córas aistriúcháin chomhuainigh go Béarla i bhfeidhm chomh maith, rud a chiallaíonn go mbeidh an dráma ríghreannmhar seo ar fáil do chách – ó mhóidíní Flann O’Brien go lucht foghlamtha na Gaeilge agus Gaeilgeoirí liofa araon,” arsa Nathan Flatman ó Amharclann an Alley. 

£10 nó £8 (ar lacáiste) atá ar thicéad agus tá siad ar fáil ó Amharclann an Alley ach scairt a chur ar 028 7138 4444 nó ar líne ag www.alley-theatre.com

English version

Flann O’Brien celebrations set to be

held in Strabane

Strabane District is set to celebrate the life and works of one of their most famous son’s, Flann O’Brien, with a stunning performance of his play “A Poor Mouth”at Strabane’s award winning Alley Theatre on Wednesday, November 18th.

Flann O’Brien was the pseudonym  used by Brian O'Nolan  who was born in Strabane in 1911.An Irish novelist and satirist,  he is best known for his novels At Swim-Two-Birds and The Third Policeman and the celebrated “The Poor Mouth”  which will be performed in Irish at the Alley Theatre for the first time in the theatre’s history.  

Flann O’ Brien’s “The Poor Mouth” tells the tale of  Bonaparte O'Coonassa - ‘son of Michealangelo, son of Patrick, son of  Owen, son of Sarah, son of  Thomas, son of Maire, born in a cabin in a fictitious village called Corkadoragha in Western Ireland. From the front door of this ‘small lime-white house situated in the corner of the Glen’ you could (allegedly) see - Gweedore, Connemara, Galway, the island of Aran and The Great Blaskets!!!  Famed as much for its beauty as the abject poverty of its residents, the daily fare consists of potatoes which they shared with a horse called Charlie, a bunch of sheep ‘a slim thighed cow’, a clutch of chickens and Ambrose the pig!! 

Seen by many critics in his working life as a “frustrated genius”, the fame and critical recognition that he had dreamt all his life of was denied to him until the start of the 21st century. As preparations were being made to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of his death, the hit US TV show “Lost” made a reference to The Third Policeman when the book is shown open on the bed of one of the characters. Interest in the book I the US and UK soared with his publisher Harper Collins reporting sales for his book had increased by over 3750% in 3 weeks. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death O’Brien’s close friend Anthony Cronin released a biography, No Laughing Matter: The Life and Times of Flann O'Brien and a documentary was commissioned by RTÉ. Today O’Brien’s works are being revisited and explored by a new generation keen to explore the mind of one of Ireland leading satirists.

“The Poor Mouth is one of O’Brien’s leading works and we are delighted to offer the only North West performance of this stunning play. The play will be performed in its entirety in Irish, with Irish translation headsets available to patrons, making this wonderful comic play assessable to Irish speakers and non-Irish speakers alike. If you are fan of the works of Flann O’Brien, learning Irish or a fluent Irish speaker, this performance is a must see!” commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre. Tickets are only £10, £8 (con) and are available from the Alley Box Officer on 028 7138 4444 or by clicking here.

Remembering conflict around the World.

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the commencement of action in the Second War World, Strabane’s Alley Theatre and Art gallery will be officially opening a new art exhibition, entitled “Visions of War”, on Friday, October 23rd at 7 p.m. by celebrated Dundalk artist, Paul Woods.

Having exhibited his breathtaking work across Ireland and in America, where he lived for eight years, Paul is delighted to be exhibiting in the North West of Ireland for the first time in the impressive gallery space at the Alley Theatre. More recently his work could be found in The Phoenix Gallery, Grand Opera House, Belfast, with further exhibitions planned for the Birr Arts Centre, in County Offaly and Galeria BWA Jelenia Gora in Poland.

Adrian Beattie, the Alley’s curator stated “Paul’s work is essentially looking at his two prime interests, the visual imagery of military history and the subsequent depiction of these images through the medium of painting. Therefore, the paintings which result from this process can be described as paintings about history.  World War One and Two killed millions of people across Europe, with the effects still felt in the world today, not only through Europe’s  politics nut in geography, national idendity and economically. Paul’s work offers a stunning insight into this conflict, which will certainly challenge our visitors to look at this moment in history from a totally new perspective”.

Paul has travelled  and researched  extensively on the subject matter of war and conflict, from battlefields in Europe and North America, Auschwitz in Poland and onto the hughely moving Kwai River in Thailand, where captured POW were forced as slaves to build the famous railway now made famous by that Hollywood blockbuster, “Bridge Over the River Kwai”. The exhibition launch is open to the public on Friday, October 23rd at 7 p.m. with light refreshments provided. “This is a unique chance to meet Paul and here about his inspiration behind the exhibition. If you have a interest in arts, maybe you keen artist yourself, studying or have a general interest, you are warmly invited to this wonderful launch night” concluded the Alley’s Adrian Beattie. To hear Paul Woods podcast click here.

Tudor’s Actor set to star in

Strabane’s Alley!

Strabane’s Alley Theatre, is delighted to announce that this leading North West arts venue will be celebrating the life and works of Flann O’Brien, Strabane’s most favourite literary son, after a 25 year absence of his last play being performed in the town of his birth.

On November 18th a new production of one of Flann’s greatest works, “The Poor Mouth”, will be performed at the Alley by the Aisling Ghéar Theatre Company with a cast from television and film taking to the famous Tyrone stage. This fantastic new production, which will be performed in Irish and is set to star Donncha Crowley, who has also appeared in the BBC’s worldwide hit, “The Tudors” which co-starred Irish actors Gerard McSorley and Jonathan Rhys Myers in the lead role as Henry VIII.

The Poor Mouth by Flann O’Brien aka Myles na Gopaleen aka Brian O’Nolan has been adapted for the stage by Bríd Ó Gallchoir, Artistic Director of Aisling Ghéar Theatre company with contributions from the celebrated Gearóid Ó Cairáillean and Owen McCafferty. This unique production will be in Irish but for non-Irish speakers Aisling Ghéar will be providing a free simultaneous translation service in English through headphones during the show, allowing everyone in the North West to enjoy the wit and humour of Flann O’Brien, which has gone for so long unrecognized until recent years.

The play will be lampooning the excessive 'woe is me' tone of many Gaeltacht autobiographies, as the surreal spoof tells the story of Bónapárt Ó Cuanasa (Donncha Crowley, Kings, The Clinic, Father Ted, The Galway Races). Bonaparte was born in a cabin in a fictitious village called Corca Dorcha in the west of Ireland and from his front door he could see The Great Blaskets, the Aran Islands, Connemara and Gweedore.  Famed as much for its beauty and never ending rain as the abject, relentless and much-admired poverty of its residents, the daily fare consists of potatoes, potatoes and yet more potatoes, which they shared with a horse called Charlie, a bunch of sheep, "a slim-thighed cow", a clutch of chickens and Ambrose the pig. Strabane’s award winning Alley Theatre will be the only North West venue hosting this play, before it ends its tour at the Belfast Grand Opera House. For ticket availability     (£10,£8 con), please contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444 or click here to book online.To hear The Poor Mouth podcast, available in both English and Irish, click here.

Facebook fans welcomed at the Alley

Strabane's Alley Theatre is pleased to announce the launched of the new Alley Theatre Facebook Fan site, packed full of show information, ticket competitions, pics backstage, discussion forums and ticket links!

"We are delighted with the new Alley Facebook page, which has been attracting fans from across the UK, Ireland and Sweden!" commented Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre Marketing Department.

"This year the Alley hosted the North West Music Festival, which included a superb performance from the Swedish National Youth Brass Band. The young Swedish musicians made several life long friendships with fellow musicians in Strabane, so we are delighted to hear that our Facebook site is still keeping those friendships going."

"The new Alley Theatre Facebook page has been great for patrons, not only are they always kept in the know about what's on, but we can now run quick ticket competitions for our Facebook fans! We have also launched a search for a Facebook Alley Theatre Critic, who would be interested in reviewing Alley shows on Facebook in exchange for free tickets! Once again the Alley is pushing the limits of Social networking in their search for Northern Ireland's first Facebook Theatre Critic!!". To find out more or to become a fan click here.  

North West Artist Gallery seeking

new exhibitors!

Linton and Robinson, the North West’s leading department store, is seeking submissions from North West artists who are keen in exhibiting in their new gallery space based in their award winning department store in Strabane.  The North West Artist Gallery, which has been opened for just 4 month’s, has been a tremendous critical and commercial success for Linton and Robinson’s and the artists who exhibited in the store. The gallery has exhibited a selection of different pieces from breathtaking sculptures from local artist Gloria Perry, stunning photography from Jim Hamilton and some superb fine art pieces from Maura Grey, ensuring the gallery has growing reputation for developing, nurturing and showcasing the very best on offer in the North West arts scene.

“We have certainly seen new faces come into our store because of the gallery and it has clearly given increased exposure to the artists and to the shop as a whole. The exhibiting artists have expressed their delight at the response each has had to their work and we are delighted to be supporting local artists and helping their endeavors in finding new markets for their work” commented Joe Barber, Linton and Robinson’s manager. “The results of the North West Artist Gallery have far exceeded my expectations and I would encourage everyone in the local art scene to submit work in the latest call-out.” Applications to submit artwork can be collected from customer services in Linton and Robinson’s Abercorn Square store or by calling customer services on 028 7138 4920. Artists are warned that all submission packs have to be in no later than November 6th, so don’t delay!

The Johnny Crampsie Festival returns in

foot stomping style!

The Alley Theatre and Strabane's CRAIC held a fantastic weekend of traditional Irish and Bluegrass Music last weekend, which saw the second year of this revived popular festival take Strabane and the North West by storm.

Kicking off the festival was Dalltach, starring Ireland's leading fiddle player Matt McGranaghan, Michael Carey, Tom Byrne and Michael Gallenagh. “Dalltach certainly gave a tremendous performance on the opening night” commented Mark Diver from CRIAC” Matt and the boys have a real talent in performing great Irish Trad music with a slight twist, opening up the genre to a whole new audience. I must also congratulate Woodbine for their fantastic bluegrass performance on Saturday night, the first time Bluegrass music has been played in the festival. Our sincere thanks must be extended to Joe Mullan, who offered a great talk on the links between Irish Trad and Bluegrass and Father Boland for use of St Patrick’s Hall which hosted the conclusion of the festival with a great free music session.”

John Kerr from the Alley Theatre stated “The festival has been a great success, building on the great work CRIAC did in the last festival. We hope next year will see even more participation and more great bands at the festival, their certainly is demand for Irish Trad and Bluegrass in the North West!” For more images click here.

The life and works of Flann O'Brien are 

celebrated via podcast at the Alley!

The Alley Theatre is set to celebrate one of Strabane’s most famous literary sons, Flann O’Brien, with a new production of An Beal Bocht (The Poor Mouth). This fantastic play, set to be performed in Irish, will be performed at the Alley on November 18th at 8 p.m. by Belfast based Aisling Ghear Theatre Group.

To profile the forthcoming performance the Alley has prodcued two podcasts, one in Irish and one in English, featuring Aisling Ghear's artistic director, Bríd Ó Gallchoir, who discusses the new production, the history of Flann O’Brien and his impact on Irish culture.

The play will be performed in Irish, a wonderful experience for fluent speakers and those learning Irish. For non-Irish speakers, translation head sets will be made available to the audience, allowing them to follow the play and enter the weird, comic world of one of Ireland’s leading literary figures. To hear the FREE podcast click here.

University of Ulster Art Exhibition visits

the Alley

The School of Art and Design - the founding school of the University of Ulster is marking their 160th anniversary this year with a wonderful touring exhibition profiling some of the work produced by students and tutors over the last 40 years. This wonderful exhibition highlights work across a range of disciplines and is drawn from the Universities Permanent Works of Art Collection.

Adrian Beattie, curator at Strabane’s Alley Theatre and Art Gallery stated “This exhibition has an autumn theme running through the works, highlighting the change in seasons, colours and textures we are now experiencing. The University has a long and proud tradition in producing some excellent artists, which the wonderful exhibition highlights. This is a great chance for A Level and A/S Level students wishing to join the University in the coming years to see what the University of Ulster has to offer them” The exhibition at the Alley Theatre, Strabane is open to the public FREE of charge and runs until October 16th. For more information click here.

The Alley's success stories are praised at

A&B Creative Advantage Breakfast
 

Arts & Business welcomed some of the North West’s most influential local businesses to their Creative Advantage Breakfast at The Playhouse in Derry. The A&B ethos champions the power of innovative partnerships, in which businesses can create a ‘competitive advantage’ through creative innovation, inspired by engagement with arts and cultural organisations.

With economists predicting a return to growth for the UK economy mid 2010, local businesses were keen to learn how engaging with the Arts could enhance their competitive edge and lead to future success and sustained economic regeneration.

Social and economic regeneration in Derry and the North West were addressed by Aideen McGinley, Chief Executive, Ilex – the Urban Regeneration Company.  Speaking about the future plans for the area and her experiences of working with arts organisations to encourage community buy-in to social regeneration projects, Aideen said: “The importance of culture to Regeneration is fundamental to achieving social physical and economic success, which I understand at first hand and recognise its continuing importance in these challenging times.”

To succeed in the global or local marketplace, businesses need to consider their brand image and review corporate strategy to ensure marketing and communications strategies deliver key objectives. David Beck, Head of Marketing Communications BTIreland focused on the changing face of brand sponsorship, and how BT’s new  emphasis on Innovation and grassroots engagement - demonstrated through new partnerships like QFT & most recently the Alley Arts Centre in Strabane - is challenging perceptions about BT the brand; “Sponsorship is becoming a crucial part of the marketing mix as brand’s turn to new categories, Arts sponsorships in particular, to add much needed credibility to their brand propositions.”  

It was left to Joe Barber, Manager, Linton & Robinson, Strabane to showcase the value to local businesses, citing their own successful partnership with The Alley Arts Centre, which has seen increased footfall and increased sales throughout the store, as well as strengthening their customer base and enhancing their reputation, saying;

“We have remained in business for over 56 years thanks to our reputation for offering quality and value. The In-Store Gallery, curated by The Alley, has been enormously popular and extremely successful.  As a local business, we have been able to give our customers a new consumer experience - something that the multiples would find difficult to recreate.”

Facilitating questions from the floor and bringing the event to a close, Mary Trainor, Director Arts & Business NI, said “It’s good to see that businesses have been increasingly using arts partnerships as a brand platform to express or even define who they were as a business. We want to inspire them to engage further to help them deliver successful marketing and corporate social responsibility campaigns that use culture in distinct and powerful ways!”

Bumper crowds at the Alley!

A bumper crowd of expectant mothers visited the Alley Theatre, Strabane, on September 17th to take part in Surestart’s popular “Mums2Be” evening, which offered the latest in information, advice, tips on healthy eating and maternity fashion advice to expectant mothers from across Strabane.

This special antenatal event, now in its third year, offered expectant Strabane mothers access to all the leading advice agencies, from local health visitors, nursery providers, midwives, maternity fashion retailers and benefit information services. Sharon Hasson, Surestart manager stated “This year has been a tremendous success and we would like to thank everyone who has made it possible. Expectant mothers know that being pregnant can be a life changing and wonderful experience. Expectant mums however can sometimes worry about what to expect and want to find out the latest information in antenatal advice. Surestart wants to inform and empower expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy, one of the best ways we have found is by running the successful Mums2Be event at the Alley Theatre. It offers a wonderful one-stop shop for mothers and their partners who are seeking the support and information they deserve during one of the most important 9 months of their lives.”

“In addition to our information stalls, we held a very successful fashion show which featured some stunning ranges from ASDA, DV8 and New Look. The outfits were beautifully accessorised by jewellery from Strabane based Bejeweled, while Anita from Aura assisted with stunning make up for the local models. It was great to see Strabane retailers have so much to offer expectant mothers in the town, this was certainly the feedback we received after the event.”  Surestart intend to be back at the Alley in February 2010 with another popular event “Mother Of Tots”, watch out in local press for further details.

Can the Arts create a competitive

advantage for your business?

Joe Barber, the visionary manager at Linton and Robinson's and Alley Theatre sponsor feels the Arts can play a significant role in offering business a strong competitive advantage in today's current climate. 

As part of a Arts & Business conference set to take place in the North West in September, Joe has recorded a podcast at the Alley explaining how he came to this conclusion after collaborating with the Alley Theatre over the last 2 years.

To hear Joe's views on the arts offering a creative edge in business, why not click here and hear his podcast. 

Strabane Job Fair hailed a major success!

Employment Minister, Sir Reg Empey, launched information packs which provide practical help to employers and individuals affected by the current economic downturn at the AleyTheatre, Strabane on September 10th.

Speaking at the Job Fair and Advice Forum in Strabane’s Alley Tehatre, the Minister said  “We are all aware of the effects of the recession and my Department has a crucial role to play in supporting people through these difficult times.”

”This Job Fair and Advice Forum builds on similar successful events in Limavady and Londonderry earlier this year and today local people can access employers, educational and training organisations and expert advisers under one roof.”

”This is one example of the action we are taking to help alleviate the impact of the economic downturn in Northern Ireland. The information packs I am launching today summarise the full range of measures which will benefit individuals and employers.

The packs contain information and advice, offering solutions and opportunities to enable people to plan their future path with confidence.”

The information packs are widely available on the Departmental website (www.delni.gov.uk) and also on the government citizen facing website, NI Direct (www.nidirect.gov.uk) or by calling 028 9025 7781. They will be distributed throughout the 35 Job Centres and Jobs and Benefits Office Network and also via the careers offices

Strabane District first ever Job Fair &

Advice Forum at the Alley!

Strabane district will have their first ever Job Fair & Advice Forum next month.

Organised and co-ordinated by the Department for Employment & Learning (DEL), the Forum will take place in the Alley Arts & Conference Centre, Strabane on 10th September 2009.

There will be approximately 20 employers and support agencies available on the day offering a broad spectrum of employment opportunities, further and higher education courses, retraining and upskilling options and valuable careers advice.  Advice and information will also be available on how to start your own business, how to find work including CV tips, help with interview techniques and work-related benefits.

Inviting all to the Forum, DEL District Manager Damien McAdams said: “This event is the first of its kind to be held in Strabane and follows similar successful events in Limavady, Belfast and Londonderry.  The Forum’s aim is to bring local people, employers, educational and training organisations, plus expert advisers together under one roof, where people can access a menu of options and obtain specialist assistance to aid them towards gaining employment.

“Whether you’re looking for work for the first time, have recently been made unemployed, wanting to start your own business, looking to enhance your skills or looking for advice on the opportunities available, the Forum will have something for everyone.”

For those with hearing difficulties, both British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) signers will be available from 10.00 am until 12.00 noon. 
For further information about the Job Fair and Advice Forum, contact Karen Doyle on 028 71276930 (GTN Ext 67930) or Bridgeen O’Hagan on 028 71 276949 (GTN Ext 67949)

BT Sounds Like Summer title goes to

King Coma!

After tough competition on the night, Strabane's King Coma took the title of BT Sounds Like Summer Champions 2009 on August 21st, in what the judges saw as a mind blowing performance which had the crowd calling for more.

The five piece band from Strabane beat rivals Fiona McCaughey, Ross and the Wronguns and Derry's The Wonder Villains to walk away with the converted music industry prize. For the full story click here.

New Alley photography exhibition

hailed a success!

The Alley Theatre, Strabane, supported by Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents, was delighted with the recent launch of Raymond McCarrons new exhibition, “Hiding in Plain Site”, which officially opened to the public on last Friday (August 21st) and runs until September 11th.

A prolific photographer of life unposed, Raymond McCarron has won several awards for capturing that fleeting glimpse of someone’s ordinary lives in a spectacular way, with his new exhibition offering a stunning insight into peoples lives not only in Strabane but across Northern Ireland.  “The celebrated Herbert Cooper documented photography every day life around the Strabane district in the early part of the 20th century and is recognised as being one of the most important photographers of in Irish photography. Raymond McCarron is the latest Strabane photographer to carry the Herbert Cooper flame of excellence; his images capture in a fraction of a second our very lives and the urban landscape that we now live in. His images are thought provoking, sometimes controversial, but very very human, an exceptional exhibition that everyone in the district should come along and visit” commented Adrian Beattie, gallery curator at the Alley

To hear Raymond McCarron’s thoughts on street photography and his inspiration behind the new exhibition in Strabane’s Alley Theatre, why not hear his podcast at http://alleytheatre.podbean.com or visit www.alley-theatre.com/exhibitions. For further information please contact the Alley Theatre Box office on 028 7138 4444.

BT Sounds Like Summer Final concludes

this week!

The BT Sounds Like Summer Music Festival is set to be concluded this week, as 4 of the best bands in the island of Ireland take to Strabane’s Alley Theatre stage on August 21st in a bid to win the converted BT Sounds Like Summer Champions title. Strabane’s Indie rock band, King Coma, the sublime singer Fiona McCaughey from Fermanagh,  Indie band Ross and the Wrongens and Derry’s electro duo The Wonder Villains have made it through to the final, with one lucky group set to walk away with a major music industry prize.

“This year’s story has been all about uncovering real musical talent in the North West. Strabane’s King Coma have a great reputation, however they have really surpassed themselves in their festival performance which got them through to the final. Fiona McCaughey made it though to the final in the last heat with a stunning set. She had the audience in the palm of her hand, with a stunning set which many would compare to being in the same league as Eva Cassidy and Juliet Turner, stunning soulful vocals which made the hair on the back of your head stand up.” For the full story click here. ....

North West Business saluted for their

investment in the Arts

The highly respected organisation, “Arts and Business” recognised this week the hard work, commitment and investment North West businesses are making within the arts sector and to the Alley Theatre, Strabane, at recent awards ceremony.

Attending the ceremony next to the Alley’s famous “Ambrose the Pig” sculpture, managers from Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents, Linton and Robinson department store, Oysters Restaurant and CRAFT Recruitment, all received award certificates from Arts and Business recognising their continued investment in the arts at the Alley Theatre. Their investment in the arts has enabled people from all backgrounds, ages and education levels to access first class entertainment, art workshops and festivals within the award winning venue. The Alley is now recognised by leading art critics as one of the finest art centres within Northern Ireland, gaining a strong reputation for community arts development, customer service and innovative theatre and exhibition programming.

Nathan Flatman, Marketing officer for the Alley Theatre stated “Arts & Business have 4 regional offices around the UK, which help spark new partnerships between commerce and culture. It helps connect companies and individuals to cultural organisations and provide the expertise and insight for them to prosper together. We are therefore delighted that our sponsors are now being recognised for their vision and hard work in supporting the arts within Strabane and at the Alley by this respected national organisation.”

“In these current times the relationship between the arts and business is even more important, something even President Obama recently recognised in a speech he made in the US. He stated to remain competitive in a global economy, we need to reinvigorate and develop creativity and innovation. That it is essential to nourish the creative spirit and the arts,  so we can create a society and people which are more open minded and capable of leading successful and productive lives”

“The first three years at the Alley have been an amazing success and we would like to congratulate our sponsors on their recent award and thank them for coming on this wonderful journey. Next season we will be welcoming P. G McGillon Motors as one of our new sponsors, which we are overjoyed about. The Sion Mills Ford car dealership recognises the power of the arts to assist in social development, regeneration and social mobility within our local community and I personally look forward to developing some fantastic theatre based business plans for this celebrated Sion Mills company.

BT Sounds Like Summer electrifies

the North West!

The North West’s leading music festival, BT Sounds Like Summer, being held at Strabane’s Alley Theatre, kicked off last week with the superb King Coma and the totally originals Wonder Villains making it through to the final festival night on August 21st.

The last two qualifying heats are now set to take place at Strabane’s Alley Theatre on August 14th and 15th, with 8 bands trying to grab the last 2 places in the hotly contested grand final. On August 14th the festival will feature an acoustic night, with local hot favourties Kelly & Shakespeare set to take on Donegal’s Turbulent Eddy, Betty Lee and the Blondes and the unqiue Ross and the Wronguns. “The quality of these four groups is amazing. Not only have these bands got great potential for the festival, but I suspect will move on to gain recognition in the UK and Irish charts!” commented the Alley’s Makrting officer, Nathan Flatman.

“The acoustic night will be a potential sell out night, which is quickly followed by performances from the fantastic Collen Gormley, Strabane’s Rory  Devine, the acoustic duo Mid-November and the beautiful Fiona McCaughey. If you missed out on a free ticket last week don’t delay, tickets are available on the night from the Alley Box office.”

This ground breaking festival, which is set to conclude on August 21st, will be presenting the best band with a fantastic music industry prize, seen by many as the best of offer in Northern Ireland!

So who will join The Wonder Villains  and King Coma in the final, well the talent is so good it could be any of the last 8 bands. Turbulent Eddy band member Michael Brennan stated “Since getting through the selction process to star in BT Sounds Like Summer Music Festival this is all that we have focused on. I would not be exaggerating when I say the festival is the only thing we are thinking about. It’s a great opportunity for the band and we can guarantee the audience is in for a real treat!

For further information visit www.alley-theatre/about-us/sounds-like-summer-2009or hear the inside track on Sounds Like Summer at the Alley podcast on alleytheatre.podbean.com, where Mickey Ferry, respected music journalist and BT Sounds Like Summer judge offers his view on this cracking festival line up.” For further information on BT Sounds Like Summer contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444

Celebrated North West photographer

Raymond McCarron prepares for

new exhibition

The Alley prepares for new Street photography exhibition The Alley Theatre, Strabane, supported by Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents, is busy preparing for a new photography exhibition entitled “Hiding in Plain Sight” by celebrated North West photographer, Raymond McCarron, which is set to open on August 17th and runs until September 11th.

A prolific photographer of life unposed, Raymond McCarron has won several awards for capturing that fleeting glimpse of someone’s ordinary lives in a spectacular way, with his new exhibition offering a stunning insight into peoples lives not only in Strabane but across Northern Ireland. Adrian Beattie, the Alley’s gallery curator stated “Raymond is one of the most gifted photographers I have ever worked with and his new exhibition entitled “Hiding in Plain Sight” offers a revealing look at people’s lives not only in Belfast, but also in Strabane, Londonderry and the surrounding areas. This stunning exhibition is a real labour of love, taking over two years to complete and is set to feature 80 subjective documents. The exhibition will be on displayed from August 17th, with the official launch, which is open to the public to attend, taking place on August 21st from 7 p.m at the Alley Theatre.”

To hear Raymond McCarron’s thoughts on street photography and his inspiration behind the new exhibition in Strabane’s Alley Theatre, why not hear his podcast by clicking here . For further information please contact the Alley Theatre Box office on 028 7138 4444.

Strabane photographer explains the

art of Street Photography

The forthcoming exhibition of "Hiding In Plain Sight" by Raymond McCarron, starting on August 14th, is already receiving plaudits from critics who love McCarrons unique view on the world. 

Raymond recently popped into the Alley to record a podcast about his inspirations and his thoughts about Street photography in Northern Ireland. Click here to hear his podcast or click here for more exhibition information. 

Watch out Diversity!

Diversity, winners of ITV’s “Britain’s Got Talent” have better watch out, as Strabane has just trained a new generation of Street dancers and break dancers who will be happy to take their title as the UK’s best dance act!

Dance Fusion, a 3 week dance festival with over 1000 dance class places available to local teenagers, concluded this week with a foot stomping dance off at the Alley Theatre, Strabane. Highlighting all of the new skills learnt by the young participants on this groundbreaking new dance scheme, the Dance Fusion showcase, organized by Strabane Community Safety Partnership, has been hailed as a great success by participants and organizers alike.

The Dance Fusion show, the first of its kind in Strabane, lasted just over an hour and left the participants gasping for breath and the audience begging for more. The packed show included professional showcases from tutors such as Tura Aratura, Georgina Kee, Sabroso, Fox ‘n’ Crew and the Walled City School of Irish Dance. “I must congratulate all the young people who had taken part in the classes, not only have their shown great creativity, but also demonstrated teamwork, patience and great tenacity in putting on a professional dance show” commented Ryan Tracey, Dance Fusion Festival Director and Community Safety Officer with Strabane District Council. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of the professional tutors who have taken the time to train the students. These professional dance instructors have not only developed the student’s confidence, but also their presentation and communication skills, which they can use in all areas of their lives for years to come. “

Dance Fusion will be back next year with a bigger and better show, providing the youth of Strabane with world class tutors from near and far. And for the young people who feel that next summer is just too far away Strabane Community Safety Partnership will be running Midnight Street Soccer in October and Hip Hop workshops will be run alongside the soccer competition.

The Alley Winter Events Guide Out Now!

 
The Ulster Orchestra, The Hothouse Flowers, PJ Gallagher, Cinderella, Flann O’Brien’s play “The Poor Mouth” starring Ambrose the Pig and The Johnny Crampsie Traditional & Bluegrass Festival are just some of the treats in store for North West patrons at Strabane’s Alley Theatre this autumn. Now recognized as one of the leading theatres within North Ireland, the Alley, situated in the heart of Strabane has announced the new 2009, which is set to be distributed from July 31st  has features a variety of acts and festivals which will appeal to everyone and all ages.

“The Alley has gained a wonderful reputation since we opened in 2007 for offering the very best in drama, music, comedy and arts development and we are delighted that this new events guide reinforces our commitment to not only developing the arts within Strabane, but offering local people a great night out and drawing in patrons from across the island of Ireland to our wonderful venue and town” commented Nathan Flatman, Marketing officer at the Alley. “This season we are delighted to welcome back the world famous Ulster Orchestra for a special festive performance, whilst Flash Harry will have the venue rocking with the very best in Queen in December. The venue is set to host the landmark music festival, The Johnny Crampsie Traditional and Bluegrass Festival, featuring Donegal’s Dalltach, who will be performing the very best in Irish traditional music and the addictive bluegrass band Woodbine.”

“The North West is famous for its humour, so the Alley has a packed comedy programme, which will include comedy legends Conal Gallen, Brendan Grace and the infamous P.J Gallagher. All three acts are hugely popular in the North West so early booking are always advisable.”

“Drama will once again lead the way at the Alley this season, with Martin McDonagh’s “A Skull in Connemara” set to be performed by one of the UK’s leading theatre groups, Love and Madness, who return after last years successful Romeo and Juliet. Strabane’s literary heritage will be celebrated with a celebration of the life and works of Flann O’Brien and a performance of one of his well known pieces “A Poor Mouth”, which will be performed in Irish, with Irish translations sets available in the evening. The Poor Mouth tells the story about a poor farmer who has to deal with an naughty pig, Ambrose, who is literally eating him out of house and home. The Alley celebrates this story of Flann O'Brien and the heritage to the Alley site, which is an old pig and cattle market, with their statue, "Where Dreams Go", known locally as Ambrose the Pig. "

"This will be a unique chance to celebrate Flann O’Brien, who is now seen as one of the most influential writers in Irish literary history”. The New Alley Events guide is available online at www.alley-theatre.com/about-us/brochure or from the Alley Box office from July 31st."

If  you want advance notice when tickets go on sale, click here and register for the Alley E-news service.

Strule Arts Group celebrates Alley

Success!

Offering a diverse collection of stunning paintings capturing Irish landscapes, local architecture, seascapes and famous landmarks, the Strule Art Group from Newtownstewart are now celebrating one of the most successful art exhibition launches in the North West last week.

“15 artists have put together this wonderful new exhibition which has proved a big hit even before the official launch” commented Nathan Flatman, Marketing officer from the Alley “Even before we officially launched the exhibition we had enthusiastic art collectors picking up a number of pieces for their own private collections, clearly showing their artwork is not only a critical success, but also a superb commercial accomplishment by this highly professional local art group.”

The Strule Art Group was founded in 2001 by a group of like minded enthusiasts from Newtownstewart, keen to develop their artistic skills. Assisted in their intial set-up by a grant from Strabane District Council, the group has held regular exhibitions within the Newtownstewart 2000 complex,  however this is their first exhibition within the acclaimed Alley Theatre’s gallery space, supported by Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents. The exhibition, entitled “Fifteen” runs until Friday, August 4th and is free to view to the public.

Strabane goes Back to the Future!

In celebration of their forthcoming screening of that classic time travel adventure “Back to the Future” on July 18th at 2 p.m., Strabane’s Alley Theatre, supported by Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents, took delivery of a iconic DeLorean sports car for the day.

“Back to the Future is an all time classic kids adventure story, which is not only action packed but features Northern Ireland’s most iconic car, the Belfast built DeLorean” commented Nathan Flatman, marketing officer from the Alley.

“We were delighted when one of the owners of a DeLorean agreed to come down to the Alley and share some of that “Back to the Future” magic. The car is only 1 of 60 DeLorean cars within Northern Ireland and is a dream to drive, it certainly turned a few heads in Strabane!!”. Pictured with the DeLorean is Sophie from Electric Candy Boutique, one of the new fashion retailers based in Castle Street, Strabane, just 2 mins walk from the Alley Theatre.  

Sounds Like Summer top 16 annouced!

The finalists in this year's BT Sounds Like Summer competition will converge on the Alley Theatre next month from as far afield as Belfast, it has been announced.

Since last month’s closing date, the judges have been busy listening to the 50 bands/singers that entered this year’s contest. Now, finally, the votes have been counted and the last sixteen can be revealed.

As Ant and Dec would say, in no particular order, we can reveal that the first band through to the Sounds Like Summer heats, to be played out on the stage of the Alley Theatre next month is Kelly and Shakespeare.

This Strabane-based acoustic duo of Gavin Kelly and Natasha Shakespeare offered the judges their mellow summer love song Sunny@7 and it was more than enough to see them through to the finals, commencing on August 7.
To Derry next and the four piece rock outfit Princess Alaska. Their song ‘I Do It Right’ did it for the judges and we will be seeing Niamh, Jaséon, Conor and Decky on stage at the Alley in August.

Vetarans of the Strabane music scene King Coma were always going to figure heavily in this year’s competition and they didn’t let themselves down with their entry song Crystal Blue. No doubt Chris Sharkey and his band will command the audience in the finals.

The Wonder Villians consist of Eimear Coyle and Cheylene Murphy and again hail from Derry. The pair list their influences as The Ting Tings, Katy Perry and Lady GaGa and the Villians will certainly be an interesting addition to this year’s finals.

One of the best band names to make it through this year is Ross and the Wronguns. Little is known about the band at this early stage but with an intriguing name like that, we look forward to seeing them at the Alley.
To Limavady next and a little band called Bettylee and the Blonde. Their song Victory was enough to carry them through to the final stages of Sounds Like Summer where they will appear just days after supporting the highly rated Mirenda Rosenberg Band. Should be good. Velma have a journey ahead of them as they travel from Belfast to play the Alley Theatre stage. An ‘alternative rock’ band, Velma entered their song Sleep for this competition. Little doubt they will be a worthy opponent for this year’s other finalists.

Strabane’s Rory Devine has also made the last 16 with his entry Embrace the Day. The 28-year-old singer songwriter takes influence from jazz, soul, classical and even disco. With a taste as eclectic as that, Rory should do well in this year’s competition.

Claudy songster Colleen Gormley also had the judges excited with her acoustic version of ‘A Place Called Love’ and we look forward to seeing her in Strabane next month.

Omagh is well represented in Sounds Like Summer 2009 thanks to The Randals and the enigmatically named Blahoon. Both bands are looking forward to their Strabane visit and should play a big part in this year’s contest. There are two entries from Fermanagh through to the final sixteen. Both Fiona McCaughey and I’m Not Maggie have secured their places in what is shaping to be the biggest and best Sounds Like Summer yet.

Sunday Wreckage made the finals last year but split shortly after. Now, two of the former members, Emer Maguire and Rachel McElhinney have regrouped as Mysterium and again battled their way to the latter stages of Sounds Like Summer. Good luck girls.

Flying the flag for Donegal is Turbulent Eddy, a four-piece rock outfit from Glenties. Their song Enemy brought a well-deserved opportunity to battle it out for the Sounds Like Summer 2009 title.

And finally, it’s back to Derry and a band called unprescribed. It’s rock and roll all the way with these guys and they will be ripping it up at the Alley next month.

So that’s it. The sixteen have been handed their golden tickets and on August 7, the gates to the Alley Theatre music factory will creak open once again. So keep an eye on your local press for further details or click here for the BT Sounds Like Summer web page. To hear the final 16 bands click here.

It’s going to be a great event this year so let the Sounds Like Summer finals commence!

North West Dance Fusion!
 

UK & Ireland Bboy Champions Bad Taste Cru are set to deliver Breakdance Workshops in Strabane as part of 3 weeks of dance workshops taking place in Strabane Town throughout July. Dance styles being taught are; Breakdancing, Body Popping & Locking, Urban Street Dancing, Hip Hop, Reggaeton and Salsa. The workshops are called Dance Fusion and are funded by Strabane Community Safety Partnership. This project is one of a number of initiatives that Strabane Community Safety Partnership are undertaking to tackle the issues of crime and anti social behaviour in the North West.

“Bad Taste Cru originally hail from Omagh and have relocated over recent years to Newcastle Upon Tyne to be closer to the breakdance scene. The members will be coming to Strabane for the first time and giving the young people in the area an opportunity to learn some Bboy and Bgirl skills. This is a once in a life time opportunity for young people, both boys and girls to be tutored by the absolute best in the business” commented Ryan Tracey, Community Development Officer from Strabane District Council.  “Bad Taste Cru have been on the scene for over 10 years now. In that time they have won many awards and competitions and continue to grow as they take the world by storm with their unmissable dance skills. Their recent achievements include the UK BOTY Winners, Regional Conflict North Winners, Irish Champs, Scottish Champs, Battle Britain Solo Champs!”

The excitement doesn’t stop there in Dance Fusion! Fox ‘n’ Crew will be taking Body Popping and Locking classes. Fox ‘n’ Crew are based in Letterkenny and are one of Irelands most successful dance schools. At the recent World International Dance Organisation qualifiers held in February, Fox ‘n’ Crew returned to Donegal with 72 trophies, with ten dancers qualifying to represent Ireland in Poland at the IDO World Championships. Fox ‘n’ Crew dancers will be showcasing both their world class skills and what they have taught the youth of Strabane at the Final Performance taking place in the Alley Theatre on 31st July 2009. At the performance the youth will showcase the skills they have learnt and their will be professional dance demonstrations in all dance styles taught at the workshops. Tickets can be purchased online at www.alley-theatre.com or by contacting the box office on 02871 384444. If you would like to take part in the workshops and the final performance contact Ryan Tracey, Community Safety Officer on 02871382204 to book your place now. All classes are FREE of charge but will be on a first come first serve basis.

To hear the Dance Fusion padcast click here.

New Strabane gallery launch

hailed a success!

The launch of the new North West Artist Gallery, based within Strabane’s Linton and Robinsons’department store, has been hailed by organizers as a “tremendous success for local artists and Strabane”. Featuring the artwork from 5 local artists, ranging from funky contemporary portraits, delightful sculptures and more traditional landscape and fine art works, the gallery was officially opened last week to large audience of dedicated art lovers and those interested in purchasing a unique item for their home.
 
“Linton and Robinson has been part of the community in Strabane and throughout the North-West for well over 50 years now. It is therefore very fitting that in conjunction with the Alley Theatre and through funding via Arts and Business NI, that we should promote local artists within our new Furniture 2 department store” commented Joe Barber, Manager at Linton and Robinson. “We hope the artists will benefit by having their works on display within a modern store, offering them extra exposure to the public and media. This is a new venture for Strabane and Linton’s, and when you see how the store has changed over the last 5 years, you can certainly see Strabane is changing, re-inventing itself and becoming far more competitive in the retail, arts and cultural tourism sectors.”

The North West Artist Gallery has been developed in association with the Strabane’s Alley Theatre and Arts & Business NI, a not for profit organisation, which aims to promote mutually beneficial relationships between business, the arts and the public sector in order to increase private sector investment into the arts through investment programmes.

Commenting on the launch, Alley Theatre Manager, John Kerr stated “This has been a wonderful exhibition launch and I certainly hope that the public support this innovative project, which is showcasing some amazing pieces of new artwork, at what I must say is some excellent prices. By purchasing a piece you are not only supporting local artists, but you made never know a purchase might prove to be a valuable investment for the future.

North West Artist Gallery

set to open in Strabane

Strabane’s Linton and Robinson, working in conjunction with the Alley Theatre, Strabane and Arts and Business NI is delighted to announce their new North West Artist Gallery is set to open on June 19th at 7.30 p.m. Commenting on the launch of the new gallery space at Linton and Robinson on June 19th , Nathan Flatman, Marketing officer at the Alley stated “The North West Gallery will offer local North West artists the unique opportunity to exhibit their work within a purely commercial gallery space. The gallery space has been funded by Arts and Business NI, whose role is to develop commercial partnerships between arts organizations and private companies”

“The new gallery has a wide range of pieces on display from sculptures from Gloria Perry, photography by John James Hamilton, and oils and acrylics by Maureen Gray and Lynne Bredin, all of which will be available to purchase within Linton and Robinson’s”.  The gallery launch will take place on June 19th at 7. 30 p.m. at the Linton and Robinson department store, everyone welcome.

Alley Arts exhibition catches

collectors imaginations

Arts lovers from across the North West descended onto Strabane’s Alley Theatre and Art Gallery last week, where they were treated to the launch of the new Geraldine O’Reilly art exhibition, “Aspects”.

“I am delighted to confirm that this has been one of the most successful art exhibition launches at the Alley within the last 12 months” commented Adrian Beattie, Arts gallery curator at the Alley, “The staff at the Alley have been deluged by collectors interested in purchasing some of the pieces, with a very high proportion being sold on the night to committed art collectors from around the country”.

“Geraldine has presented a truly magnificent exhibition which has really caught the imagination of visitors to the gallery, the bold use of colour mixed with her unique style, allows the Alley to present to the public free of charge one of the most successful North West artists working at the present time.”

The Alley Theatre and Gallery space has now been in operation since 2007, with gallery exhibitions taking place every 4-6 weeks, with previous exhibitions including Felim Egan, Sean Campbell and the Royal Dublin Society to name but a few. On June 19th the Alley Theatre, in association with Arts and Business NI, will be assisting Strabane’s Linton and Robinsons in opening their new exhibition space, The North West Artist Gallery, which has been established to enable local artists to exhibit in a highly successful commercial department store. The launch takes place on June 19th at 7.30 p.m. with everyone welcome to see view the new exhibits from talented local artists including Gloria Perry, Jim Hamilton and Maura Gray.

New Northern Ireland Tourist Board

set to highlight the

BT Sounds Like Summer

Music Festival 09

The BT Sounds Like Summer Music Festival 09 will be one of the major attractions used by the Northern Ireland Tourist board to entice visitors from the Republic of Ireland and the UK for breaks to Tyrone this summer.

Their new summer marketing campaign will be featuring the Alley’s hugely popular music festival, which is set to be even bigger and better than last year. On June 2nd the Derry based band, "The Landed Gentry", visited the Alley for a series of promotional shots, which will now go out across the UK and Ireland and will be seen in major press, billboard and advertising.

“We are delighted to see the Northern Ireland Tourist Board have recognised the Alley and The BTSounds Like Summer Music Festival 09, supported by the Strabane Chronicle as one of the major attractions to be found in the Northern Ireland this year” commented Nathan Flatman, Marketing officer at the Alley. For more information about The BT Sounds Like Summer Music Festival 09 and how your band could enter please click here.

Where Dreams Go wins high praise!

The Alley Theatre public art work, "Where Dreams Go", known locally as Ambrose the Pig, has just been highly comended by the Foyle Civic Trust in the new awards pr gramme, which has been voted by members of the public via the Derry Journal.s is an excellent demonstration of how strongly people feel about our buildings and open spaces”, said James Foster, chairman of Foyle Civic Trust.   “And it is noteworthy that by far the most popular items were new works of public art.   The four short-listed art works (there was a tie in the nominations) ended by attracting no less than 5,375 votes. That is over 70% of all the votes cast in all of the categories in the final.   There is a clear statement to anyone erecting public art in the North West  -  the community has strong preferences about it!”

“Strabane District Council and the Alley Theatre are delighted to receive an award for their new public sculpture “Where Dreams Go”, created by Martin Heron, which has been recognised by the prestigious Foyle Civic Trust Awards.” commented Nathan Flatman, the Alley Theatre, Marketing officer.

Martin Heron, who designed Ambrose started "I am very proud of this sculpture and am deeply touched that the people of Strabane have taken it to their hearts.
I would like to thank everyone who voted for 'Ambrose' and I hope it continues to give both local people and visitors  great pleasure for years to come."
 
“This award is particularly special because it has voted by the public and not a panel, and was aimed at recognising the North West’s best loved pieces of Public Art or New buildings. The Alley’s” Where Dreams Go” AKA “Ambrose the Pig” received the highest number of first round nominations and was narrowly beaten in the second round by the eventual overall winner, Kieran O’Doherty 'City of Oak' sculpture based in St Paul's Primary School in Galliagh. This official public recognition demonstrates that Ambrose is very much loved by the local community, giving enjoyment to everyone who walks by him in the Alley piazza”  concluded Mr Flatman.

New exhibition set for “adventure”

at the Alley!

The Alley Theatre, Strabane, is happy to announce a new joint exhibition has just been launched by Paul McGuckin and Mike Absalom, which is already receiving rave reviews by local critics. Paul McGuckin’s latest exhibition consists of stunning photography, detailing his journey on the Jeanie Johnston in 2007, chronicling a wonderful voyage which for Paul was an unexpected adventure. 

“I photographed the arrival of the Jeanie Johnston tall ship to Rathmullan, Donegal, as part of the Flight of the Earls festival.  I was so struck by the ship, the crew and the idea of recreating the steps of the Earls, I began plaguing the organisers of the festival to allow me to travel on the upcoming trip to Le Havre, France.  I could immediately see that the trip should be documented and that it would make a great exhibition.  On the Sunday evening, prior to the lunchtime sailing time on the Monday, I received an unexpected call – my persistence had paid off and I would be joining the crew.  With less than 24 hours notice, I embarked on the journey of a lifetime” commented Paul McGuckin as he opened his exhibition.

“Before leaving, I had a vision of olde-worlde black and white images, painting a picture of the hardships the original travellers might have experienced, 400 years previously.  But as soon as I set foot on the bobbing vessel (in gale force winds), I realised that this would be a modern day Technicolor adventure with its very own characters and dramas. My aim during the trip was to simply document the journey itself, including the different conditions we encountered, and the personalities who took part.  The resulting images illustrate every aspect of the voyage and tell a vivid story of what we experienced, but I also feel that they still manage to provide some insight into what the original Earls may have encountered.”

Paul will be sharing his space with Mike Absalom, an artist whose work has graced respected galleries across Ireland, charting a colourful 40 year artistic career which has led him to live across the world including Iran, Paraguay and Greece. His new exhibition is looking at life in the city and within rural settings, with flashes of emotional and personal experiences streaking through is work. “Both Paul and Mike has produced some outstanding work, two unique artists whose work seem to compliment their characters and are certainly inspirational in their format and presentation” commented Adrian Beattie, Art Curator at the Alley. 

If you are interested in art and would be keen to meet the artists behind the exhibition, the Alley has recently launched a Alley Art Club, which is free to join and offers personal invites for exhibition launch nights and special email updates to the general public.

Exhibition launches normally take place in the evening and last for around 1-2 hours, allowing art lovers an ideal opportunity to browse the new exhibition, meet the artist behind the paintings and meet like minded people interested in art. To receive FREE membership, simply email nflatman@strabanedc.com with your full name, address, contact number and preferred contact email address.

BT Sounds Like Summer is back!

Think summer and what springs to mind? Long hot Saturdays lounging in the garden? Sipping cold drinks with friends on the beach? Well now you can add to that Sounds Like Summer, the biggest musical festival of the sun soaked months. Following on from last year's event at Strabane's Alley Theatre, Sounds Like Summer returns, bigger, better and even louder. Close to 50 bands and performers threw their hats into the ring last year. The judges were given the unenviable task of whittling that down until by August only one remained, Donegal Town's Pavesi. Since being crowned the first ever Sounds Like Summer champions, the four-piece have enjoyed huge exposure, largely due to their first prize of recording a professional music video to accompany their hit single Turnaround Year.

Commenting on the Sounds Like Summer experience, Pavesi's Ronan Hanna said the competition is a must for anyone looking to make waves in the Northern Irish music scene. ”We entered Sounds Like Summer, never expecting to win. For us it was just a chance to get up and perform in a great venue in front of hundreds of people.  To win was unbelievable and since then we have shot the video for Turnaround Year. It has received a good response but the bigger thing was getting the single out. With the publicity we received, we have been gigging away and we hope to be doing a few concerts and festivals over the summer,” Ronan said.

With a bit of advice for anyone considering signing up for Sounds Like Summer II, the Pavesi guitarist added: "I would say go for it. It's very difficult to get exposure in the music industry and competitions like Sounds Like Summer are vital if you intend making a career out of performing." While undoubtedly last year's event was a huge success, this year is already gearing up to be something special. Telecom giants BT have very kindly come on board to sponsor Sounds Like Summer II, guaranteeing a major first prize and massive exposure. Meanwhile, further exposure is guaranteed via the huge media exposure the event is expected to attract. The question now is how do you get involved? It couldn't be easier.
Whether you are a singer or band member, you are eligible to enter. Age is no barrier and all genres are welcome, be it Irish traditional, Rock, Indie, English folk or even thrash metal. All you need to do is submit one original music track on the website www.connect2yourtunes.com/soundslikesummer. It really couldn’t be more simple.

Once you have uploaded your entry, the panel of judges will have a listen and if they like what they hear, you could well be appearing on the Alley Theatre stage this summer. Entries can be submitted from today, so why not have a go? Who knows, you could be soaking up the sun happy in the knowledge that you are officially Northern Ireland’s sound of summer 2009. For more information about how to register click here!

Oysters welcome Michael Watters

for a night of wonderful music and food!

Michael Watters, the celebrated classical/jazz guitarist, who has recently completed his third appearance at the Derry Jazz Festival, is set for an intimate gig at Oysters Restauranton May 16th, as part of an Arts and Business Award in association with the Alley Theatre, Strabane.

 “Oysters have been a keen supporter of Strabane’s Alley Theatre since we opened in 2007, not only do they run a successful pre-theatre menu for guests, but they have also assisted with entertaining guest performers appearing at the intimate Alley venue, supporting local artists to design bespoke pieces of functional art work in the restaurant and supporting the various educational and arts workshops in the Alley” commented the Alley’s Marketing officer, Nathan Flatman. 

“As a way of recognizing their achievements in developing the arts within Strabane and supporting the Alley Theatre, Oysters have been awarded funding by Arts and Business, the organisation developed to enhance investment in the arts by private businesses, which will go towards running a  series of music nights. Once again Oysters are keen to support local musicians who are looking to perform within Strabane, so they have arranged 3 music nights starting from May 16th (5 p.m to 7 p.m.) The three acts lined up to perform during the early evening are Michael Watters, who will be performing at Oysters Restaurant on May 16th, prior to Jason Byrne’s comedy gig at the Alley on the same night at 8 p.m. Noel McGinley, who will be performing on June 6th prior to the Neil Delamere comedy gig, followed by Brendan Conway, a great acoustic singer songwriter who made massive waves in last years “Sounds Like Summer Music Festival” on June 13th, the same evening the “Chronicles of Long Kesh” is performed at the Alley.”. For further information about performances at Oysters Restaurant call 028 7138 2690 or click here for contact details.

North West Music Festival

concludes in style!

The Alley came alive for three days of thrilling music performances, competitions and workshops, highlighting the very best in talent not only within Strabane and the North West, but across Northern Ireland and the rest of Europe. From the magnificent Swedish National Youth Brass Band to St Joseph's Brass Band storming to victory within their section, the North West Music Festival surpassed all expectation.

The festival started on April 2nd with musical workshops for local students interested in pop, rock and brass workshops. Led by Brendan Breslin, the celebrated Irish composer and musician, over 140 students benefited from excellent tuition and hands-on experience with some of the leading musicians in their field.

In the afternoon, Radio Foyle and BBC Newsline descended onto Strabane and the Alley to promote this wonderful community festival. "The Mark Patterson Show" held an outside broadcast in the Alley's Jenca Cafe, interviewing various participants in the festival, musicians, local business and political leaders, while Keiron Tourish, BBC Newsline North West correspondant filmed workshops in action and a performance by the Swedish National Youth Band and St Joseph's Brass Band at the world famous "Tinnies" statues.

To view BBC Newsline at the Alley , click here.

The Dublin Concert Brass Band and Brendan Breslin thrilled a packed audience on April 3rd with their performance of "Music from the Mills", a collection of big band, swing, brass music, which simply pulsed with energy and rhythm.
On Saturday, April 4th over 20 brass bands from across Northern Ireland fought it out in the Alley auditorium to be crowned champions, with Strabane's St Joseph's Brass Band once again winning their section and Strabane Concert Brass coming a very respectable 3rd in their section. The competition started at 10 a.m and did not finish until 6 p.m, with packed audiences throughout the day enjoying some of the very best in brass band music in the UK on show.

The grand finale of the festival was the Swedish National Youth Brass Band and Steve Sykes, who gave a gripping performance of music around the world. "The Swedish group had a fantastic time in Strabane and musical friendships have been built for years to come with the exciting visit by our European partners" commented John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager. "The North West Music Festival has been an amazing success and we look forward to welcoming the North West Festival Committee back again next year".

Tommy Barr, North West Music Festival Director and member of St Joseph's Brass Band commented "The festival has been a fantastic experience for everyone involved and I would like to sincerely thank all the sponsors, including Strabane District Council, The Connect Project, MK Audio and other local businesses for their support, without which this whole event would not be possible. We have now demonstrated to the musical world what talent Strabane and the North West has and we look forward to next year!".

Alley launches new summer guide!

The Alley Theatre, Strabane, supported by Harte and McGarrigle Estate Agents are delighted to announce two major events taking place in Strabane, firstly the North West Music Festival takes place this week, featuring the very best in music across Ireland and the UK, and secondly the unveiling of the new “Alley Summer Events Guide 2009”, featuring a host of top names and shows from the world of drama, comedy and music.

The North West Music Festival (April 2nd – 4th)  is set to feature performances from local legends, Brendan Breslin and the Dublin Concert brass Band to international stars like The Swedish Youth Brass Band and celebrated brass player, Steve Sykes. This groundbreaking festival will also feature an under 18’s band night, “No Fake I.D Required”, featuring the very best in unsigned bands from across the North West and the Brass Band League of Northern Ireland Championships, which will be the first time this competition has been held outside the Belfast area. The festival has ticket prices ranging from £3.50 to £10, offering excellent value form money, whilst hearing some of the finest musicians within Northern Ireland.

With a mouth watering comedy line up this summer the Alley is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces as the intimate venue welcomes RTE’s “Anonymous” and “The Panel” comedy legend Jason Byrne, fellow “Panel” stand up comedian Neil Delamere and the hilarious new comedy “Mrs Whippy” starring  Mary McEvoy from RTE’s Glenroe.

Mrs Whippy is a This moving, heart-warming and funny show focuses on Emelda O’Grady, a 46 year old woman dealing with five difficult sons, a split marriage and a new job.The soothing sounds of a Mr. Whippy van arrive at just the right time for Emelda, only now it’s not just the ice-cream that is her only true friend. Cecelia Ahern, writer of the blockbuster “P.S I Love You!” mixes laughter with tears in equal measure in Mrs Whippy, creating a humorousportrait of a woman finding her own place in the world. Not to be missed!

For music fans the Alley welcomes back the breathtaking sound of Chris Kavanagh in his special 25th Anniversary concert “The Legend of Luke Kelly” featuring a special song “Voice of the People" to commemorate the passing of one of Ireland’s greatest singers, Luke Kelly. Lúnasa , the Irish trad band, hailed as the “New Gods of Irish Music” by MOJO magazine drop in for a  special one night appearance, while the Rubber Plants return for their unique tribute to the masters of rock 2Led Zeppelin. While “Sounds Like Summer”, supported by the Strabane Chronicle, returns in August for a breathtaking series of top gigs which will not only profile the very best unsigned bands within the North West, but also enable the winning band to make their mark on the music industry with a fantastic music prize. 

Josef Locke, Pavarotti and Mario Lanza fans will not be disappointed with the news that the Tony St John will be stopping at the Alley during his Irish tour to sing some of the greatest songs ever written, expect to hear those unforgettable songs “Nessun Dorma”, “Be My Love” and” Hear My Song”, as he offers his own unique tribute to three of the worlds greatest singers. Staying on the classical theme, the Alley is delighted to bring a new production of “The Barber of Seville” to North West, a fantastic  production which will feature the costumes from Oscar winner,  to the North West for the first time. Sung in English, Rossini's sparkling masterpiece has all the ingredients - secret lovers, magical music, wonderful costumes, elaborate disguises, intrigue, clandestine meetings, all mixed up with a fantastic comedy storyline. Michael O’Conner, Opera UK’s costume designer for “The Merry Widow” and this up-coming production of “The Barber of Seville” last night won  the coveted Oscar for Best Costume Design for the film "The Duchess" following on from his win as Best Costume Design for the same film at the Bafta Awards earlier this month.  Opera UK are delighted for Michael and his continuing support as an Artistic Associate with Opera UK.

Martin Lynch will be bringing his new play “The Chronicles of Long Kesh” to theAlley in June. Telling the story of Long Kesh/The Maze prison, the audience is taken on a journey through the eyes of the  Prison Officers, Loyalists, Republicans and a rich assortment of patriots, chancers, leaders, wives, escapers and hypochondriacs. The Chronicles of Long Kesh is a powerful, painful and, at times, hilarious story which has performed to sell out audiences across Ireland. This will be a guaranteed sell out, so early booking is advisable.

For one night only! Irelands very own hypnotist Richard Morrow will be joining forces with one of Britain’s finest and fastest stage hypnotist’s around Christopher Caress who between them guarantee to take you on breathtaking magical adventure of the mind! This two-man show is fast paced, hilarious and a theatrical adventure. With Richards dazzling showmanship and Christopher’s sense of humour and charismatic charm between them they create magic on stage leaving any audience buzzing with excitement. Christopher has just returned to the UK form a series of sell of Las Vegas shows and is looking forward to touring Ireland throughout the summer.

Family shows are always at the heart of the Alley season and this year is no exception, with the arrival of the BBC smash hit “Little Howard and the Magic Pencil of Life and Death”.Perrier - nominated comedian Big Howard and his animated 6 year-old sidekick Little Howard will be the “must have” ticket for primary school children across the North West, as we find Little Howard finally meeting his maker – “The Pencil of Creation”, but with great power comes great responsibility, and on the other end Little Howard finds …... The Rubber of Doom! Determined to rub out the cheeky chap out for good, will the Rubber of Doom succeed or will our cheeky hero save the day.

“This is only a small selection of shows which are going on sale, tickets for our new shows go on sale from March 28th, for further information contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444 or visit our website at www.alley-theatre.com where you can download the new brochure. Patrons are reminded that tickets go on sale from March 28th.” commented John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager.

Top author set for Alley fringe event!

Brian McGilloway, the best-selling author of the Inspector Benedict Devlin crime novels, is set to offer a book reading at the Strabane Drama Festival Fringe Event series, based in the Strabane Community Library on March 25th from 6.30 p.m.

Born in Derry, Northern Ireland in 1974, Brian is currently Head of English in St Columb’s College in the city. His first novel, Borderlands, was shortlisted for the CWA New Blood Dagger 2007 and was hailed by The Times as ‘one of (2007’s) most impressive debuts.’ The second novel in the series, Gallows Lane was published in April 2008, with the new Devlin novel, Bleed a River Deep due for release this April. Brian lives near the border with his wife and their three sons. This is a few event to attend, for further information contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444. For information on Brian's latest work visit www.brianmcgilloway.com

Rois Kelly set for Oysters

Castlederg singer songwriter, the wonderful Rois Kelly, is set for a night of intimate acoustic music within Oysters Restaurant, Strabane on March 29th. The “Tyrone Restaurant of the Year” is delighted to present an evening of superb music, all in the comfortable surroundings of this award winning restaurant, supported by an arts development award from “Arts and Business”, which supports investments into the arts and local artists by businesses.

Kevin and Caroline Clarke, owners of this highly rated North West restaurant stated “Rois is a wonderful singer, who we have seen perform at the Alley Theatre to great acclaim. We are therefore elated to welcome her to our restaurant thanks to the recent Arts and Business award. We can certainly guarantee that her lovely acoustic set will be a marvelous accompaniment to our pre-theatre meals, which have been very popular with Alley Theatre patrons. Rois will be performing at Oysters from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m, allowing patrons visiting the Strabane Drama Festival final night later on that evening, to enjoy the very best in what Strabane and the North West has to offer in music and drama.”

Since making the final of the Alley’s “Sounds Like Summer” music festival in 2008, supported by the Strabane Chronicle, Rois has been working hard not only on her music but also establishing one of the North West’s leading drama schools, “The last 12 months have been fantastic” commented Rois “and I cannot wait for the Oyster’s music set on March 29th. The restaurant has a lovely ambience and a relaxed atmosphere, so it will be a great venue to perform within”. For further information contact Oysters on 028 7138 2690.

New art gallery planned for Strabane

Linton and Robinson, the landmark family owned home furnishing store based inthe heart of Strabane is seeking local North West artists to showcase their work within a new bespoke gallery space, which plans to open within their award winning Abercorn Square store in late May 2009.

Working in partnership with the Alley Theatre, the North West's leading department store, already featuring high quality departments in furnishing, kitchen and domestic appliances, interior design and accessories intends to be the new artistic hub for customers eager to purchase stunning pieces of art for their home or business. Their exciting new plans for a bespoke exhibition space and a prestigious gallery guide will allow for a selection of pieces to go on display from up to 6 local artists, developing a wonderful opportunity for artists to reach new audiences for their work and develop sales to a far larger market than ever imagined. Joe Barber, the Linton and Robinson Store Manager commented "This is an amazing opportunity for local artists and craftsmen to display their pieces to the art buying public, whilst allowing our customers the exclusive opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of artwork. Not only will the artwork make a wonderful feature for your home or business, but it can also be seen as an investment, as the artists work should increase in value over the coming years and it fits very well with our existing Interior Design Service which affords our customers with expert help and advice from our experienced design team. The finishing touches can make such a difference to any room and we hope this partnership will allow our customers to have something which is unique in their home".

The new exhibition space and gallery guide has been made possible by a recent award from Arts & Business, who recognise and celebrate the support Linton and Robinson has made within the local community in terms of arts development and support for the Alley Theatre, Strabane, now considered the North West's leading art venue. Arts and Business is a world leading membership network and consultancy with over 30 years of experience in fostering innovative partnerships between business and the arts. Through national offices, Arts and Business deliver a wide range of bespoke services and programmes working with both the commercial and cultural sectors to encourage private sector support of the arts.

"We are now looking for artists to submit an application to exhibit their work within the new Linton and Robinson exhibition space and be included in our new gallery sales guide. The gallery will have a grand opening on Friday May 29th, however submissions for entry must be entered by April 17th. To receive an artist submission pack please collect one from the Linton and Robinson customer service desk in our Abercorn Square department store or call on 7138 4920 and one will be posted or emailed out." concluded Joe Barber.

North West Restaurant

helps celebrate Arts Investment

within Northern Ireland.

48 local businesses, including Tyrone’s Restaurant of the Year, Oysters from Strabane, celebrated at the “Arts & Business Investing in the Arts special reception”,  last week, marking their partnerships with local arts organisations, including the Alley Theatre, Strabane. 

Presenting Oysters with their certificate in recognition for their investment in the arts, Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said “As the major public funder of Arts & Business, the Arts Council congratulates the businesses that have been recognised for their investment in the arts. Commercial and private businesses in Northern Ireland are increasingly realising the benefits of working with arts organisations and exploring creative solutions, particularly within the current economic climate.  The Arts Council is keen to encourage growth in this area and is pleased to support events like this, as they acknowledge excellent examples of creative partnerships between the corporate world and the arts.”

Commenting on the event, Gregory Campbell, Arts Minister, Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, said: "Arts & Business is a vital catalyst in enabling the arts and business sectors to work in partnership to support creativity and innovation, attributes, which are essential in ensuring Northern Ireland’s continuing prosperity."  Businesses from across Northern Ireland have contributed to almost £1 Million to the arts and also won investments worth over £200,000 for their partner arts organisation from the Arts & Business Reach Investment programme. The Reach programme is an investment programme designed to support business to try something new with arts, or to broaden and deepen and existing partnerships. It is funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and managed by Arts & Business.

“I would like to thank the businesses here today for their vision in investing in our vibrant arts sector. At this challenging economic time, these businesses have seen how partnering with the arts can offer innovative ways to deliver on many business objectives. The Arts Council’s investment via the Arts & Business Reach scheme has been invaluable in enhancing and sustaining these vital relationships for the longer term.” said Mary Trainor, Director, Arts & Business.

One of the most innovative partnerships was Alley Arts Centre & Oysters Restaurant, one of the best known and loved restaurants in the North West. The partnership between The Alley Arts & Conference Centre and Oysters has enabled the restaurant to increase its profile within Strabane and much further afield. As a key feature of Strabane nightlife they wanted to take their connection with the arts one step further. A Reach investment enabled The Alley to work with Oysters to develop a series of live performances at the restaurant, showcasing new and emerging musical talent. “Oysters is delighted to working with the Alley Theatre on promoting the arts and area to patrons across the North West. Not only has Oysters developed a theatre menu, but we are now hosting live acoustic music sessions on key nights within the Strabane Drama Festival." John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager stated “We are delighted that our sponsors, Oysters, Harte and McGarrigle, Linton and Robinsons and Craft Recruitment have been once again recognised for their vision in promoting the arts within Strabane and we look forward to continuing this into the future.”

North West Stage Write School Festival

hailed a “great success!”

Strabane District Chairman, Cllr Jarlath McNulty brought the curtain down on the final night of the successful  “Stage Write” drama festival last week, hailing the new primary school drama festival at the Alley Theatre, Strabane, as a “innovative approach to education via the arts”. 8 local primary schools from across Strabane District took part in the festival, each performing a short play on stage on the theme of the “Environment” after an intensive 2 week drama course led by the North West Regional College students and funded by Creative Youth Partnership, Strabane District Council and North West Regional College.  

Cllr McNulty thanked the students, schools and the festival organizers for their "tremendous support and willingness" to push the boundaries of the arts and education in Strabane District. Schools which took part in this ground breaking festival included St Anne’s Girls School (Strabane), St Patrick’s (Dunamanagh), Erganagh Primary School, Drumlegagh Primary School, St Mary’s Girls’ Primary School, St Theresa’s Primary School (Glebe), St Columba’s Primary School (Clady) and the Model Primary School (Newtownstewart).

Stage Write involved P7 students, who were challenged to write a story, rehearse and then perform a 15 minute play at the Alley Theatre within two weeks. Each school acting troop worked under the expert direction of 2nd Year Drama Students from North West Regional College, whose course involved directing a show within the local community. Head of Drama at the North West Regional College, Anne McMaster commented “This has been a tremendous achievement not only for our college students but importantly the P7 students, who have given 100% commitment to this wonderful project and have produced some outstanding pieces of work.  For many of these students this is the first time on a professional stage, which will have created a new found sense of personal confidence, team building and presentation skills. Also P7 students will gain a deeper understanding of the arts and the theatre and added a marvelous memory to their school career, showing them nothing is impossible, even producing a show in a professional theatre, if you give 100% commitment.”

Stage Write, held at Strabane District Council's award winning Alley Theatre wasas a partnership project between North West Regional College, the primary schools in the Strabane District and Strabane District Council and supported by funding via the Creative Youth Partnership. Creative Youth Partnership receives funds from Dept. of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Arts Council of Northern Ireland and the five Education and Library Boards. Geraldine O’Reilly from Creative Youth Partnership commented “Stage Write has been an excellent partnership where everyone has reaped the benefits. The North West Regional College students have worked extremely hard under the excellent tuition of Anne McMaster, developing the skills of pupils across the Strabane District Area, with the two shows at the marvelous Alley Theatre offering an exceptional night of drama and entertainment.”

 ‘Stage Write has been a really exciting project, enjoyed not only by the primary school pupils and their teachers, but also the North West Regional College Performing Arts students, and lecturer Anne McMaster, who directed the shows." stated Basil Dalton from North West Regional College”A really strong creative bond has been formed between the schools, the college and the Alley Theatre, and it is something we will build on in future collaborations’. 
John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager stated “Once again the Alley Theatre staff are delighted with the success of this event, which we know will leave a long lasting legacy amongst the participants of Stage Write 2009. As a Strabane District Council facility, we would like to thank Creative Youth Partnership and North West Regional College for their excellent support and involvement, without which this event could not have been the tremendous success it was.”

Reach for the Stars at the Alley!

Primary school children across the Strabane District are set to benefit from a new innovative drama scheme, “Stagewrite”, which was officially launched this week in front of students and teachers by Strabane District Council Vice Chairman, Cllr Eugene McMenamin, at the Alley Theatre, Strabane.

Working in partnership with students from North West Regional College, P7 students from 8 primary schools across the Strabane District are now busy preparing scripts and rehearsing a 15 minute show on the theme of “our environment”, which will be perform in the North West’s premier arts venue, the Alley Theatre, Strabane on March 11th and 12th.

This pioneering scheme funded by Creative Youth Partnerhsip, Strabane District Council, the North West Regional College and the Alley Theatre was congratulated by Eugene McMenamin, Vice-chairman of Strabane District Council for “producing a fun and educational drama scheme which will leave a long lasting arts legacy within the minds of the pupils and within the skills base of the teachers and college students who are participating on this ground breaking scheme”.

Geraldine O’Reilly, Development officer for Creative Youth Partnerships stated “We are delighted to support the Stage Write Project and we hope the children and young people on the course will develop new skills and confidence by being involved in the arts. Not only will the children enjoy and learn from their experiences, but it will also develop new opportunities and ideas for the participants looking at working within the creative arts industry. I look forward to watching the final Stage Write performances taking place at the Alley Theatre on March 11th and 12th.” Creative Youth Partnership is an initiative funded by Dept of Culture Arts and Leisure, The Arts Coucil of NI and the Department of Education and the 5 Education and Library boards. It aims to increase chidlrens and young peoples participation within the arts.

“We are externly proud to be working closely on this project with the Alley Theatre, Strabane District Council and Creative Youth Partnership” stated Basil Dalton form the North West Regional College, “Our students will be working with the primary school children, directing their performances and passing on production techniques to the participating teaching staff. Everyone involved in the project is fully committed to developing the children’s skills and showing them the opportunities and enjoyment that can be found in the visiting and performing within the theatre.”  

New glass exhibition set to

smash gallery attendance records

The new gallery in the Alley Arts and Conference Centre, Strabane, supported by RE/MAX, is delighted to announce the arrival of the highly prestigious exhibition “Beginnings Without Boundaries” by Belfast born artist Sean Campbell.

The glass exhibition which runs until March 19th contains various free standing and wall mounted glass sculptures, reflecting a significant period of Sean’s work to date from his Belleek based art studio.

 “Growing up in Belfast during the 70’s the common route for many people from my generation was to travel and work aboard. At an early age this provided me with a unique insight into different cultures and the outside influences affecting local people” stated artist Sean Campbell, “In today’s world we find ourselves in a continuous stream of information, all fighting for our attention. Life is increasingly becoming complex and confusing. As an artist I am searching for a way to understand and manage those complexities. My work aims to return to first principles through simple games, and memories. To train the mind to observe and reflect, to be puzzled, seek solutions and respond. To recapture the imagination and creativity of youth and combine it with the wisdom and maturity of adulthood.”

Adrian Beattie, gallery curator at the Alley commented on the stunning glass exhibition as “one of the most impressive exhibitions by an Irish artist the Alley has exhibited so far. This exhibition presents a unique opportunity for the general public in the North West and across the island of Ireland to witness one of Ireland’s most gifted artists present a new exhibition”.  Sean’s pieces have exhibited across the world including the Phoenix Gallery, Belfast, Denmark, Portland, Oregon, the Ulster Museum, Irish National Museum and National Waihiki Art Gallery in New Zealand.

“This new exhibition has taken 4 months solid work, seven days a week working in the studio in preparation for this new exhibition. I hope the general public and private art collectors enjoy the new exhibition, which has been a real personal journey of discovery” concluded Sean.

John Kerr, Alley Arts and Conference Centre manager stated “Sean’s Alley exhibition is simply breathtaking and is a true reflection of the stunning work taking place in Sean’s Fermanagh art studio. His work is now held by private collections across the world, including in New Zealand, USA, Australia, Ireland, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Now the North West has a marvelous oppotuninity to admire Sean’s work, which will be on display until March 19th. 

The Alley scoops the Allianz Arts

and Business Award NI 2009

Representatives from the Alley Theatre and their sponsors, RE/MAX, Linton and Robinsons and CRAFT Recruitment and Training attended a stunning awards ceremony at the Reform Club in Belfast on January 16th 2009, with the Alley scooping the top award for "Excellence in arts management of the business relationship" in front of a pack audience of theatres, festival organisers, musical groups and their business partners from across Northern Ireland.

The Allianz awards night recognised the important role the arts have to play in the development of a successful business and in building communities. Seven awards were presented on the night, with RE/MAX, Linton's and CRAFT Recruitment all nominated for top awards. The three Strabane based businesses narrowly missed out in their hotly contested groups, however RE/MAX received a "Highly Commended" for their project which involved photography classes for staff and the local community, culminating in an exhibition in the Alley gallery space.

However the Alley Theatre was delighted to accept the final prize on the night for "Excellence in arts management of the business relationship" and was awarded a prize of £2000 to recognise their achievements. Speaking after the awards, John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager stated "Receiving this award is a tremendous achievement for the Alley staff, our sponsors, Strabane District Council and all of the patrons who have worked on our various Arts and Business Projects. We are delighted to accept this award from Arts and Business, supported by Allianz and we look forward to working on even more creative projects in 2009/2010."

Lights, Camera, RE/MAX!

Leading Strabane estate agents RE/MAX, will be shortly seeing their faces on the big screen thanks to an innovative partnership between the Alley Theatre, B.E.A.M and Arts and Business NI. The Strabane RE/MAX team was awarded a day’s script writing and filming by Arts and Business NI as a result of the sponsorship programme with the Alley Theatre, with the training vacillated by leading arts group B.E.A.M.

Arts and Business NI, who rewarded RE/MAX with the days training, are a ground breaking artsorganisationwhich awards funding and training to businesses in recognition for their support of the arts and arts development programmeswithin the community. As a result of the RE/MAX arts sponsorship with the Alley, the theatre has been able to offer various artsprogrammesand drama schemes which have benefited the wider community, including local primary schools, photography clubs and art groups. Therefore the Alley management team was delighted to nominate this hardworking estate agents and financial services company for an Arts and Business award earlier this year, which has resulted in this amazing opportunity for RE/MAX to be a star in their own film.

The award from Arts and Business NI included a days filming and scriptwriting fro RE/MAX staff, offering an exceptional opportunity for their business and staff development, which will now be rolled out across the country. The training film is now in post production and will finally find itself on its way to Dublin next year for a special premiere at the annual Irish RE/MAX conference, highlighting once more the groundbreaking staff development and customer service being offered within the North West and RE/MAX in Strabane.

“The Alley Theatre is delighted that RE/MAX has once again been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the arts and community development within the North West and are worthy recipients of this unique course. Arts and Business NI have recognised the Alley’s development programme with their main sponsors, which also includes Linton and Robinsons, Oysters, CRAFT Recruitment and Training and Jobs 1^st, which has led to our unprecedented nomination for over 5 awards at the forthcoming Allianz Arts and Business Awards 2009” stated Nathan Flatman from the Alley Theatre. “RE/MAX are one of the leading businesses within the North West and the Alley is delighted o be associated with such a progressive and community spirited organisation. The final cut of the film, which looks at helping train sales staff to offer 100% customer service satisfaction is another example of RE/MAX's vision to provide not only the best possible training to staff or service to customers, but also assist with community involvement in the Arts”

Kathryn O’Neill, Manager for BEAM, who facilitated the days training, stated “B.E.A.M were delighted to partner with the Alley Theatre and REMAX on such an innovative project. The REMAX team were highly enthusiastic as they worked with B.E.A.M artists to take three scenarios and develop them from script to screen. The filming gave the REMAX staff a chance to delve into the world of movie making and we were amazed at the talents they displayed”

St Joseph's Hit the right notes at the Alley!

Preparing for tonights performance at the Alley Theatre, St Joseph's Brass Band was delighted to use some unique "silverware" as a wonderful backdrop to their festive show this year. The trophies on display were for their successful campaign to win the All Ireland Grade Two Brass Band title, which they won on November 1st at the Market Place Theatre, Armagh.  

Having won the All Ireland Grade Three Brass title last year, Musical Director, Noel Barr (pictured) ventured to test the waters in the Grade Two contest this year with spectacular results.  The Adjudicator, Markhus Bach from Switzerland, gave St. Joes top marks of 91 points; thus bringing the band to the highest place in their contest career so far and setting them on to the road of tighter challenges. Commenting on the band’s success, Noel said “When I took over the conductor’s baton two and a half years ago, I set myself a goal where I wanted the band to be in five years time.  That goal was reached on November 1st last when the band won the Grade Two title with a magnificent performance of ‘Prelude and Jubilate’.  I wish to congratulate all the members of the band on this success and thank them for their attendance and dedication to practice sessions, section work and individual home practice.  It’s a job well done and the band is a credit to Strabane and a worthy musical ambassador for the town.” For more information on St Joseph's Brass Band, click here

St Joseph's will be the driving force about the forthcoming Strabane Music Festival in 2009, which will feature international performers, 26 brass bands from across Ireland and educational workshops. For further information about the Strabane Music Festival contact the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 7138 4444.

Committee for Social Development visit the Alley

The Alley Theatre welcomed MLA's from the Committee for Social Development, including Alban McGuinness MLA, who were in Strabane District to tour regeneration projects within the district.

John Kerr, Alley Theatre manager, took them on a tour of the award winning theatre and art gallery, which included a new exhibition by artists Anne Quigley and Heidi Wickham.

The committee were impressed by the wide variety of shows on offer at the Alley, with the MLA particularly impressed by the high level of involvement by the local community in producing community related shows.

Craft fair hailed a success at the Alley

The Alley Theatre, Railway Street, Strabane, supported by RE/MAX, held a successful craft workshop day last Saturday, which included the launch of the latest art exhibition within the famous Alley Gallery by local North West artists Anne Quigley and Heidi Wickham.

Jean Symth from Strabane District Council who arranged a series of craft workshops was delighted by the response from the local community, all of whom were interested in taking part and reviving more traditional craft techniques,  “The day included workshops from  Castlecrafts, The Grange Quilters, Krafty Creations, Daisy Chain Cancer Support Group, Strabane and District Women Together, all of whom saw the huge potential by keen amateurs looking to get involved in local crafts, including quilt making and jewellery design. The future for traditional crafts looks very bright in the north West, as those who attended the workshops took away some excellent tips from leading experts in their craft fields. The day was a great success for everyone involved and we look forward to running something similar in the new year.”

The new art exhibition on display at the Alley will run until October 31^stand features the works of Anne Quigley and Heidi Wickham, two celebrated artists, who work made a big impact on the day with the Alley recording their best ever sales for resident artists on the first day.  Anne Quigley section of the exhibition is entitled “Chaos”, which the artist states tells the story of the journey home and the soul’s incessant call for us to recognize the greatness inside ourselves. Her pieces included some amazing woven sculptures and stunning paintings, which really grabbed the attention of visitors to the exhibition launch.

Shape Shifter by Heidi Wickham takes up the second half of the exhibition space, and is inspired by her love of myths and folklore, this magnificent exhibition looks at the mythical qualities of the hare transforming into a human form and vice versa. Produced in charcoal and oils, this is Heidi’s first exhibition in the Alley. Her stunning recreations were a obvious talking point for many of the visitors, who became transfixed by these life like paintings.

Adrian Beattie, gallery curator stated “This new exhibition has been an incredible success, not only from an artistic perspective, but it has been a wonderful vehicle in which to get the local community more involved within the gallery and local arts. The pieces on display are truly superb, and I know the people who took pieces away with them on the day will have a piece of artwork they can pass down the generations in years to come.”. For further information about the gallery opening times or concerning information about the new Alley Art Club, which is free to join, contact the Alley Box office on 028 7138 4444.

September 17th

President of Ireland visits the

Alley Theatre

Mary McAleese, President of Ireland, made an hour long visit to the Alley today, meeting with local representatives from the local charity, arts, business community, and with representatives from Strabane District Council. As part of her visit the President met with Strabane Chamber of Commerce to discuss the various projects and plans for the Strabane District.

After a series of speeches in the gallery at the Alley, Mrs McAleese spent time chatting to the assembled crowd, including representatives from Linton and Robinson's, RE/MAX, Oysters and Craft Recruitment.

John Kerr, Manager at the Alley stated "The President was very impressed with the Alley and our current art exhibition from the Royal Dublin Society. It was a pleasure to host the President and we would love to welcome her back in the future to see a performance."

September 13th

Magners Big Tickle Comedy

Festival a big hit at the Alley!!

Andrew Maxwell, Ireland's rising star on the comedy circuit took the Alley by storm tonight with his one man stand up show. Andrew's performance on the night was electric, with a routine that left nothing uncovered or un-said! From politics, religion, his Johnny Cash impression at Mountjoy Prison, a benefit gig in the Shankill and the Falls, Andrew Maxwell strides with confidence where other comedians fear to walk.

"It was a great gig and I really loved the crowd" stated Andrew after the gig. "The theatre is wonderful and all credit to the area, it is a great place to perform". The audience certainly agreed and it won't be long before Andrew Maxwell is back at the Alley!

August 23rd

Donegal triumph at Sounds Like

Summer!

Pavesi, the Donegal band who won heat 1, beat all the odds to win the final of the Sounds Like Summer Music Festival, beating tough competition from Strabane locals, the McBeth Sisters and Rois Kelly from Castlederg.

Boy # 7 from Donegal and Sunday Wreckage from Strabane also gave great performances, however the Donegal band impressed the judges panel with not only their song writing skills but their overall performance in front of the packed Alley Theatre.

Well done to all the bands who competed in the festival and lets see if Donegal can retain the festival prize in 2009!

August 18th

Five Bands make it to the final of Sounds Like Summer!

After months of waiting, an intensive selection panel, 4 live heats....the Sounds Like Summer Grand Final is only days away!

This Friday (August 22nd at 7 p.m.) will see the following bands perform within the main auditorium for the chance to win the prestigious Sounds Like Summer Music Festival 2008, supported by Strabane Community Safety Partnership and by our media partner, the Strabane Chronicle.

The bands are

• Donegal's finest - Pavesi
• Strabane's Sunday Wreckage
• Castlederg's Rois Kelly
• Strabane's McBeth Sisters (pictured)
• Donegal's Boy#7

Tickets for the final are only £5 and can be booked by contacting the box office on 028 7138 4444.

July 11th

Top Music News

Sounds Like Summer – the full line up.

Music fans across the North West are in for a real treat with an eclectic mix of bands featuring in the forthcoming "Sounds Like Summer Music Festival", sponsored by the Strabane Chronicle and Strabane Community Safety Partnership.

 The 15 acts confirmed are as follows.

• Dirty Little Words from Limavady
• Brendan Conway from Ballymagorry
• O’Adelaide from Raphoe (via Ohio)
• Pavesi from Donegal Town
• Sunday Wreckage from Strabane
• Recognise from Strabane
• Future Chasers from Derry
• Renegade from Strabane
• Gareth O’Connor from Ardmore
• Phantom Power from Letterkenny
• Rois Kelly from Castlederg
• Zero Resistance from Limavady
• Lost Souls from Strabane
• Rachel  McCauley from Burndennett
• Boy#7 from Letterkenny
• McBeth Sisters from Strabane

To download a poster of appearance dates please click here.

Places will be limited for the festival, so come early! Each night is from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. with the Alley Theatre open from 6 p.m.

The qualifying heats will be free of charge, with the “Grand Final” on August 22^nd at the Alley Theatre only costing £5 entrance.

For further information on Sounds Like Summer, register for the Alley E-News, simply register by clicking here.

 June 2008

Cross Border Drama Camp set to

bring communities together.

The Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey, and the Alley Theatre, Strabane, came together this week to celebrate the official launch of their new cross border “Crossing Bridges Drama Camp”, which will run from July 21^st - August 16^th. This ground breaking drama camp, which already has a full list of participants, will bring together 11-16 yr olds from cross border communities for a fun 4 week drama camp. During the camp participants will be able to write and star in their very own drama production which will then be performed in the new Balor Arts Centre in Ballybofey and the Alley Theatre on two consecutive nights in August.  

The Crossing Bridges Drama Camp is described as a “groundbreaking and unique joint project”, and has been supported by the International Fund for Ireland, whose funding has been essential in bringing this project to fruition, enabling cross border young people to work and socialize possibly for the first time together.

Speaking at the launch, Paddy Harte from IFI stated ““I am delighted that the Board of the International Fund has agreed to support this very innovative approach to peace building taken by the Balor Community Arts, Ballybofey and the Alley Arts Centre, Strabane. I am sure that the young people will gain a better understanding of each others culture and backgrounds as a result of being involved in a venture such as this.”

Lisa Finn from the Balor Arts Centre, stated “The Balor Arts Centre is delighted to be working with the Alley Theatre on this essential project, which will not only teach young people new skills within the arts but also bring border communities closer together. The new Balor Arts Centre will very shortly be opening its doors to the to the public for the first time, and this will be one of the very first projects the staff will be working upon, so we are all very excited in getting started and meeting the participants.

“Working in joint projects like Crossing Bridges is essential for developing the importance and awareness of the arts and their contribution to renewal, regeneration, education and bringing communities closer together, therefore I am delighted that the Balor and the Alley have come together to offer such an excellent scheme” stated John Kerr, Alley Theatre Manager at the launch, which took place within the Alley Theatre Strabane.

Chairman of Strabane District Council Jarlath McNulty was delighted to welcome IFI and representatives from the Balor Theatre to the Alley for the launch, commented “The Balor Arts Centre and the Alley Theatre must be congratulated in working together in developing the new Crossing Bridges Summer Drama Camp, which will help develop the skills and confidence of young people on both sides of the border throughout July and August.”

“This is a great opportunity for young people to learn new skills, meet new people from different backgrounds and widen their horizons concerning what can be achieved through the arts. On behalf of Strabane District Council I would like thank the International Fund for Ireland for supporting this essential project, which I know will bring a far greater understanding between young people from both sides of the border”.

Jarluth McNulty, Chairman of Strabane District Council, Jim Hoolihan, Balor Arts Centre, John Kerr, Alley Theatre, Paddy Harte, IFI and Lisa Finn, Balor Arts Centre pictured at the Alley Theatre, Strabane at the recent drama camp launch.

The Alley Wins Top National Award

The Alley Arts & Conference Centre, Strabane, scooped the top award for best building under £3 million in the recent Royal Society of Ulster Architects  awards. The Alley emerged as winner, in the largest contested category of the awards, fending off competition from 18 other entries.

The significance of the architecture was described by the RSUA as outstanding. The RSUA publication, Perspective, states: ‘It creates a prominent civic presence and reconnects public spaces within the town… The Alley marks the regeneration of this small town with a value for money centre that many small towns could be justly envious of’.

Council Chairman, Gerard Foley, said “I am delighted that the architectural quality of The Alley has been recognised in this prestigious award scheme. It demonstrates the impact the building has had on the town’s regeneration and sets the standard for further development within the town”.

Head of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Karen McFarland said:  “The judging panel was most impressed with how the Alley was contributing not only to the physical regeneration of the town but also to its social development. The Alley continues to offer a dynamic events programme involving performances by our local arts, school, community and church groups, as well as professional performances. The real success of the building is in its flexibility to meet the needs of this wide range of groups”.

The building was designed by Glen Howells Architects in partnership with Alan Jones Architects.

The judging panel included Gordon Murray, Professor of Architecture, Strathclyde; architect, author and artist, David Evans; and Bill Kirk, Chief Executive of Ilex.