With ever evolving lockdowns, I spent a lot of 2020 house bound. And so I didn’t have much to blog about. However, I decided during this time to learn a new skill: graphic illustration through software.
I’ve always had an interest in sketching with paper and pencil but I have always had a fascination for artwork created with software. However, I had no idea where to start. And so, after much googling, I purchased a cheap graphic tablet and started tinkering away trying to draw illustrations onscreen.
After I got a feel for it, I decided to set myself a goal, to write and illustrate a children’s book for my niece for Christmas.
After many drafts, I created a character based on my niece, drawn in the style of the LOL dolls she loves so much. The story came next, based on a family trip we took to Portrush in January 2020.
After lots of drawing hours, and proofing, Boo Bear and the Bug Go On An Adventure was finally ready for print. I got a small print run commissioned with Belfast-based Kaizen Print.
I have to admit I was so excited when I picked up the hard copy books from the printer in November. They looked better than expected and I have to say this was undoubtedly one of my proudest moments of 2020.
Anyway, here are a few snaps of the book. And who knows, maybe the Boo Bear books will become a series.
I recently went back to school when I registered to attend The University of Wonder and Imagination. Created and directed by Paul BoscoMcEneaney, this fun and interactive hour-long theatre experience uses the magic of technology to deliver an ambitious theatre experience for all ages.
Staged by Cahoots NI as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival, this unique production puts the audience in the director’s chair as the choices you make during the live event, hosted via Zoom, will shape your individual experience.
Orientation comes from the mysterious Professor Bamberg (SeanKearns) who explains the steps of your educational quest. As the audience solves puzzles they are introduced to a range of engaging lecturers in specially themed rooms; as you follow each quest, you could find yourself anywhere across space and time.
Our jam packed semester at The University of Wonder and Imagination saw us take lectures from the intriguing Professor Sharma (LataSharma), magical Professor Danny Carmo (CaolanMcBride), the creative Professor Lola Hurst (PhilippaO’Hara) and the imaginative Professor Wilbert Hoffman (Hugh W. Brown). The result was a mind boggling experience of wonder and illusion.
The University of Wonder and Imagination is unlike anything I have experienced before. Completely immersive, the experience is unconditionally engaging, educational and exciting. The purpose-built set and superb staging combined with the inventive incorporation of technology is revolutionary, showcasing that there is wealth of ingenious opportunities to be explored in the new era of theatre we have found ourselves in.
The University of Wonder and Imagination, which is suitable for ages 7+, runs until 1 November. To book your place and earn your diploma from The University of Wonder and Imagination, visit: cahootsni.com http://cahootsni.com or belfastinternationalartsfestival.com
I am a massive fan of the North Coast. After a fun-fuelled weekend with all the family in January, and the pandemic making travel more difficult, I decided a return trip was the perfect location for a staycation this summer.
My sister, brother-in-law and niece were booked in for a week-long stay, and so I decided to gate crash for a few days days.
I got the train from Belfast to the North Coast, my first time on public transport post-covid and so it was the ideal opportunity to see if glasses washed in warm soapy water fog up less when wearing a face covering (the answer is a surprising yes!).
Once I arrived and dumped my bag, the gang and I headed to my favourite place: Harry’s Shack at Portstewart Strand. After building sandcastles and races along the beach, it was time for a breather and a well earned drink. To adhere to the new social distancing guidelines, Harry’s Shack has added more tables onto the beach. Each has a unique QR code, which when scanned allows you to order food and drink online. Once ready, it will be brought to your table. This eradicates cramming round the bar trying to get served and is something that I hope stays as it makes for a really relaxing and pleasant customer experience.
Pints at Harry’s Shack.
Dinner that evening was to another favourite of mine: The Tides Restaurant. Located just outside Portrush, this family friendly restaurant has impressive views and an equally impressive menu. Offering three courses for the price of a main (or the option to swap one course for a glass of wine or a bottle of beer), it is excellent value for money.
The Spanish meatballs at The Tides Restaurant.
I opted for the Spanish meatballs as a starter followed by the honey glazed duck breast. Both dishes were bursting with flavour and perfectly cooked. The Tides Restaurant does not scrimp on portion size and so I opted to swap my third course for a glass of wine. If visiting, and not driving, don’t forget to check out the cocktail list – in my opinion, the Porn Star Martini was the perfect night cap.
The honey glazed duck breast.
The following day we headed to the West Strand of Portrush. After building sand volcanoes, and a picnic on the beach, I decided it was time for a – very brief – dip in the Atlantic. It was totally baltic, but there is no better way to blow away all your inner cobwebs.
After a warm shower, we headed in to Portrush. My sister Gail and I looked around a few shops (if you are in the area, visit Memento for a quirky selection of gifts or treats for yourself, as well as brilliant customer service), whilst Alan and Rachel hit up the arcades. Once it was time to regroup, we headed to the outside playground located beside The Arcadia beach cafe. It was the perfect spot to enjoy the sun and work up an appetite.
The view from 55 Degrees North.
After failing to get through to the Ramore, we booked a table for dinner at 55 Degrees North. I hadn’t been before and wasn’t sure what to expect but from the minute we entered, I fell in love. The staff are professional and friendly and the implementation of a one-way system helps maintain social distancing. We were very lucky to secure a front table, overlooking the ocean, and so I was in my element.
The Scillian chicken pasta at 55 Degrees North.
Again there was an excellent variety on the menu. After toying with the idea of the 55 Burger, served with onions and pepper sauce, I instead opted for the hearty and very delicious Sicillian chicken pasta, served with peppers, pancetta and sun blushed tomatoes. It really hit the spot. The cocktail menu at 55 Degrees North was also extremely reasonable and so it seemed rude not to sample what was on offer. The delicious whiskey sour I ordered was wonderful and acted as the perfect accompaniment for the scenic views; this is definitely somewhere I will return to.
The Whisky Sour.
The evening ended with a spin on the Portrush ferris wheel. With stunning panoramic views, this is an amazing way to see Portrush, regardless of your age.
Alan and Gail on the Portrush ferris wheel. The view from the Portrush ferris wheel.
My final day saw the rain roll in and so we retreated to the arcades once again, where Alan and Rachel cleaned up after scoring a Dumbo plush toy and a unicorn from the claw machines. Before we ended up barred from winning too much, we headed to Urban for lunch.
This modern restaurant exudes a classic yet industrial feel. A sister restaurant of The Tides Restaurant, I was not surprised by the mouth-watering dishes listed on the menu. I was immediately sold by the slow braised beef pappardelle, and it really did not disappoint. During August Urban is a participant of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, and so we were very impressed when we were presented with the bill to see the savings we received.
The slow braised beef pappardelle.
With a full tummy, and a smile on my face, hidden below my face mask, it was time to board the train back to Belfast.
With exceptional scenery and a bustling food scene, the North Coast is an idyllic spot for a staycation. However, that has meant certain restaurants may be busier than normal, so avoid disappointment by booking your tables in advance. Apart from that, this is one part of the world I am happy to keep escaping to; if anything, the global pandemic has made me appreciate what we have on our doorstep all the more.
Afternoon Tea is one of my favourite treats, especially when enjoyed with some of my favourite people. However, with lockdown and the knock on effect it’s had on the hospitality industry, this is one treat I haven’t been able to enjoy as much as I would like lately.
My lack of a sugar fix, however, was recently treated thanks to Ivy’s Bakes on the Castlereagh Road, Belfast.
This fantastic family-run bakery offers a wonderful takeaway afternoon tea, brimmed full of all the special offerings you could hope for. It can even cater for allergies and intolerances, with gluten free and vegan alternatives, for example, also being available.
One major component of afternoon tea are the sandwiches; fillings available from Ivy’s Bakes include; egg and mayo, coronation chicken, ham and cheese, and salad.
Next up is the foundation of a good afternoon tea, as well as fruit and plain scones, you can also chose from white chocolate and raspberry (which are stunning!) and savoury options for those who aren’t such a fan of all things sweet. Mini packs of butter and jam are also included to take the scones to the next level.
An afternoon tea would not be complete without tray bakes and cakes and here Ivy’s really comes into its element; from rich brownies, lemon squares and lolly-shaped cakes, to giant Viennese Whirls, German biscuits and peanut mallow slices, there is something for all tastes.
For those who like a little bit of sparkle to their afternoon tea, miniature bottles of prosecco or champagne can be added to your order.
Presentation is such a huge part of the afternoon tea experience. To help recreate the look at home, Ivy’s Bakes also provides a cardboard cake stand which you set up at home with the oodles of freshly made goodies.
Initially I wasn’t sure how the afternoon tea experience would translate when moved to home. However, with quality baking, superb variety and good value for money, Ivy’s Bakes takeaway afternoon tea is a surprisingly good alternative. You can enjoy it where you like, when you like and with who like. In these uncertain times, that added flexibility can really be an added bonus to an excellent concept.
The face of theatre has unquestionably changed as a result of Covid-19. For the time being, group excursions, sell out shows, and opening nights are a no-go. However, the Lyric Theatre, BBC Arts and BBC Northern Ireland, supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, have curated a collection of six new bite-sized drama commissions that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Initially broadcast on Thursday (25 June) on BBC Two Northern Ireland, Splendid Isolation: Lockdown Drama, boasts commissions from some of Northern Ireland’s biggest names in writing and acting – including the wonderfully talented Lisa McGee (Derry Girls) and the brilliant Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones).
I missed the original broadcast on BBC Two, but thankfully the series is now accessible on BBC iPlayer. A short intro, narrated by Kerri Quinn (a regular treading the Lyric boards and star of Coronation Street and Come Home), paired with footage of a deserted Belfast, perfectly sets up the tone of the theatrical pieces: five minute commissions which explore the positive and negative aspects of social isolation and lockdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The quality of the writing, acting and directing in each set piece is of a superb quality; the result is a collection of fantastic little gems which pack an emotional punch. The impact of this creative body of work is all the more impressive as it was created and filmed whilst strictly adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Each instalment is remarkable. ‘Just the Two of Us’, written by Sarah Gordon, is a hilariously relatable snap shot into the lives of partners Karen and Simon, who are trying to survive working from home together. Having had to divide our house into two makeshift offices during lockdown, I could completely understand how the Wi-Fi can suddenly become an all-powerful presence in the house, whilst the petulant dynamic between the two protagonists seemed eerily familiar.
Stella McCusker features in ‘A Random Act Of Kindness’.
Isolation has been a major negative of lockdown. However, ‘A Random of Kindness’ written by Owen McCafferty and starring the legendary Stella McCusker, and ‘Best Wishes’ written by Abbie Spallen and featuring David Pearse, are thought-provoking and heart-warming reminders of how a friendly face or an unseen but amiable presence can make a huge difference to those living alone.
David Pearse in ‘Best Wishes’.
Abigail McGibbon features in ‘Love Lockdown’.
Whilst isolation plays a large part of Splendid Isolation: Lockdown Drama, it is refreshing that it also delves into how this unprecedented moment in time has afforded us the opportunity to re-connect. When lockdown brings Gillian’s first love out of the woodwork in David Ireland’s ‘Love Lockdown’, she has to decide whether she wants to see him again, never mind exploring if it is even possible with social distancing restrictions.
Anthony Boyle in Lisa McGee’s ‘The Girl At The Window’.
Whilst there are moments of comedy throughout, there is also melancholy as loss plays a recurring theme. ‘The Girl at the Window’ written by Lisa McGee and featuring award-winning actor Anthony Boyle gave me goosebumps. It tells the story of Jimmy, who is packing up the family home after his father passed away during lockdown. Jimmy becomes obsessed with the girl in the house opposite, who seems to be watching him but is unresponsive to his attempts to communicate. With a powerful performance and an eye-opening twist in the tail, this brief production absolutely blew me away. Likewise, Stacey Gregg’s ‘Wake Cake’, also had a profound effect on me. The emotive material and the stirring performance from Kerri Quinn as a young woman in mourning was a stark and poignant reminder of what loss means post-Covid. With the only option in many cases being to grieve via a Zoom funeral, it gave a face to the startling reality that many people across the country have had to forgo physical support during a time when it is needed the most. Though somber, it was the perfect note to conclude on, emphasising why the extreme measures we have had to endure have, and continue be, so important as we strive to limit the loss of life throughout the pandemic.
Kerri Quinn in Wake Cake.
Splendid Isolation: Lockdown Drama is a creative and inspiring project which delivers very welcome shots of culture to an audience, who like me, have been starved from the lack of real-life theatrical productions. Celebrating local talent, this ambitious project perfectly showcases the resilience of the arts sector and its ability to unequivocally translate everyday experiences into a record that captures a unique moment in time. This is a marvellous exercise in storytelling and collaboration; the result is an imaginative collection of theatrical pieces that can either be devoured whole or savoured at your leisure, but either way, you will feel enriched for having consumed them.
Splendid Isolation: Lockdown Drama will be screened on BBC1 on Wednesday 1 July at 11:20pm and is also available on the BBC iPlayer.
One sure fire way to blow away the cobwebs is a visit to the North Coast, and that’s what my family and I did over the weekend.
WHERE WE STAYED
Our home for the weekend was the well appointed Ulster Cottages. Situated a few miles from Portrush, Portstewart, Coleraine and Bushmills, these modern, spacious cottages are the perfect base for exploring the North Coast. Our cottage slept 6 adults (and a tiny human) and was equipped with three bedrooms, two ensuites, and a kitchen with all the amenities you could need. The Ulster Cottages also has ample parking spaces making it ideal if you are travelling from further afield and want to take your car with you.
PENNY ARCADE
The Super Mario haul from the arcades.
Although Barry’s Amusements is shut until Easter, the four-year-old in our midst was delighted to visit the several Amusements dotted along the Main Street in Portrush which are still open outside of peak season. As a huge fan of Super Mario – particularly Princess Peach – she was vibrating with excitement as her dad managed to defeat the Claw Grabbing Machine to add a haul of new additions to her Super Mario collection.
SIGHTSEEING
Whilst it was quite blustery during our visit, the sun came out and we had the chance to walk along the East Strand. Along with the stunning Arcadia building (which is closed until Easter) and an unrivalled glimpse of Whiterocks beach, this area of the town is a wonderful spot for scenic photos and relaxing views.
As the sun continued to shine we decided to also check out Dunluce Castle. Dramatically perched on the edge of a cliff, these iconic ruins, which were built around 1500, are truly a wonder to behold. As well as exploring the rich history of the Castle, from its ownership to how it instigated the formation of Dunluce town, as well as eerie tales of banshees, this National Trust treasure, which boasts breathtaking views, is a must visit.
The view from Dunluce Castle.
FOOD AND DRINK
The North Coast is synonymous with good food and drink. Whether you want something simple like fish and chips or something more gastronomic, you are sure to find something to tickle your tastebuds. We enjoyed the chunkiest chips at Mr Chips Diner – which has views as impressive as the food – but the piece de resistance for me was dinner at The Bushmills Inn. The historic building, with whitewashed walls and warm mellow brick timbers, is warm and inviting whilst the staff are attentive and welcoming. The menu offers a diverse range of locally sourced dishes, from fresh seafood to steaks and – what I devoured – tender chicken with dauphinoise potatoes and roasted carrots. The desserts all sounded delectable but I had to sample the Bushmills Irish coffee, which really was one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
Whether for a cosy lunch or an evening meal, the Bushmills Inn – as I found out – is definitely the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion and make unforgettable memories with your nearest and dearest.
The North Coast is not only a place to visit during the summer months. Winter and early spring bring clear crisp days, and dramatic landscapes that are guaranteed to capture your heart. With something for all ages, from the Bushmills distillery tour to walks along the beach and arcades galore, a visit is sure to be anything but mundane.
Christmas is my favourite times of year. Although I love the spontaneous nights out, the unexpected catchups with friends and making new memories every year, I also love those traditions which make the festive season complete. Here’s my top 5 traditions that are top of my Christmas list.
1. Christmas production at the Lyric
I love a trip to the Lyric Theatre in Belfast anytime of the year, but for me it does not feel like Christmas without catching the theatre’s Christmas production. This year’s festive offering was Grimes and McKee’s Driving Home For Christmas. Directed by Frankie McCafferty, Driving Home For Christmas sees various travellers finding themselves at the Dander Inn, deep in the Sperrins, on Christmas Eve as the roads become impassable as the result of a ferocious snow storm. As it seems unlikely the weather will clear up, they find themselves facing up to the liklihood of spending Christmas together, with their increasingly strange hosts, Pat and Paddy.
Grime and McKee’s Driving Home For Christmas.
Driving Home For Christmas is a wonderful combination of comedy and drama with just the right amount of musical numbers. The performances from all the cast were superb, though with the multiple role as proprietors of the Dander Inn, Connor Grimes stole the show for me.
After last year’s staging of Bah!Humbug, the standard of expectation was very high. Although Driving Home For Christmas took a while to warm up, it was bursting with laughs, creative staging and twists that’s keep you on your toes throughout. So, if you fancy something a little bit different this Christmas period, be sure to snap up tickets to the Lyric Theatre; Driving Home For Christmas runs until 4 January 2020, the recommended viewing age is for 14 years old +
2. Wrapping presents whilst watching Elf
Elf is one of my favourite festive films. It is fun, colourful and spreads Christmas cheer every year. I have seen the film that many times now, I can almost recite it word for word. It has also got to the stage, much like Will Ferrell’s other comedic masterpiece Anchorman, that I find myself laughing before key moments as I know what’s coming. As I love it so much, every year I love combining a viewing of it with one of my other favourite things to do at Christmas: wrapping presents. By the end, my Christmas cheer levels are through the roof.
If you have not yet watched Elf, or just want to rewatch it, catch it on Christmas Eve on UTV at 5.15pm.
3. Watching It’s A Wonderful Life at QFT
The Queen’s Film Theatre is a wonderful place to visit. This time of year it is even magical, as without fail it adds a screening of my all time favourite festive film to its listing. It’s A Wonderful Life, featuring the superb James Stewart, tells the story of George Bailey, who after problem and problem befalls him, begins to question if taking his own life is his only solution. After his guardian angel Clarence is sent to earth, he aims to show George what the world would be like without him.
It’s A Wonderful Life, whilst not a cookie cutter happy film, never fails to send me away with a smile on my face; George Bailey is a good man who goes above and beyond for those he loves and it’s hard not to get invested in his fate. With themes of friends, family and loyalty, set against Christmas, it’s the perfect film for this time of year.
It’s A Wonderful Life runs at the QFT until Christmas eve 2019.
4. Having a chimney cake at the Belfast Christmas Market
Christmas is a time for sugar and one of the things I love most about the festive season is my annual trip to the Belfast Christmas Market for my annual Chimney Cake. Originally a Hungarian street snack, the chimney cake has a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Coated in cinnamon and sugar and filled with ice cream, fudge and chocolate brownies, it is pure decadence and one of the things I look forward to every Christmas.
At the Belfast Christmas Market for my annual Chimney Cake.
5. Family time
My all time favourite thing about Christmas is getting to spend time with the family. The big day itself is filled with calling at different houses, delivering presents and spending quality time with loved ones. As the family make up changes, Christmas day traditions continue to change and evolve but as long it’s filled with family, good food, a few drinks, love and laughter, my wish list is complete.
The beginning of Christmas traditions, big sister Gail (left) and me.
I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy your festive traditions, whatever they may be.
In the 90s my sister and I spent countless hours surfing music channels. Whilst my go to was MTV2, which played everything from Smashing Pumpkins to Willie Mason, Gail’s was MTV Dance, which soared from Chicane and BT to Faithless. Dance anthems were never my thing, I preferred lyrics over beats, but the older I get, the fonder I become of the tunes that were once inflicted on me during my teenage years. They make me feel nostalgia for a simpler time and they incite joy in me as they remind me of my favourite – and, ahem, only – big sister. So, last week (this unfortunately has taken me a while to post), I attended my first ever Lush! Classical at the SSE Arena. I attended, with Gail, of course, as well as my bro-in-law Alan and a few mates including Kyle who was instrumental in securing us a spot in the Golden Circle. Though the tickets were slightly more expensive, they were worth it as they included access to the Golden Circle bar, meaning you didn’t miss any action on stage.
The highlight of Lush! Classical, which is now in its fourth year, is getting to witness memorable dance hits being reimagined by the insanely talented Ulster Orchestra. After the crowd was suitably warmed up by guest DJs, including Seb Fontaine, the magnificent orchestra took their places on stage. The catalogue of the night included Planet Funk’s ‘Chase the Sun’, Fatboy Slim’s ‘Right Here, Right Now’ and Daft Punk’s ‘One More Time’, to name a few. The excitement was palpable as sisters Philippa and Jolene O’Hara took to the stage; their powerful vocals perfectly complemented the stunning performance by the orchestra. The surprises didn’t end there as dance legend Maria Nayler and sensational saxophonist Lovely Laura absolutely wowed the crowd.
I was surprised by how much I LOVED my first experience of Lush! Classical. I was absolutely mesmerised by how the orchestra were able to capture the heart and sounds of each anthem. Whilst the Orchestra might be more known for pure classics, modifying their repertoire to include dance classics resulted in a truly memorable event which clearly has attracted a new audience to appreciate these skilled musicians. With impressive staging which included fire and lasers as well as glitter and streamers being fired into the crowd, Lush! Classical felt like it would have been right at home in Ibiza. I danced my socks off from start to finish, so much so, I was incredibly thankful for the advice from big sis to leave the heels at home. As the night concluded with a clear audience favourite, ‘Insomnia’, which saw a xylophone being used to wonderful effect, I felt seriously euphoric. I’m already set for a encore (en fois)!
For a snapshot of the night, check out a (rough) video of my favourite moments here:
I love food and family time; when the two are combined I’m at my happiest. And so I was in my element when the whole gang of us headed for Sunday lunch at Novelli at Belfast City Quays which is located in the wonderful AC Marriott Hotel for my mum’s birthday. As the name suggests, the restaurant, which is the initiative of Jean-Christophe Novelli, boasts a stunning river view, with the SSE Arena, Titanic Quarter and the landmark Harland & Wolff Cranes visible across the water.
Novelli, which is a Mediterranean and French influenced brasserie, offers a superb Sunday lunch with a two- or three-course option. When booking my sister mentioned my dad is coeliac and once seated we were presented with the menu which our waiter took the time to explain the menu and also point out gluten free options which were suitable for dad.
The starter was the ‘Chef’s Table Appetisers’ which was a selection of continental meats, cheese, artisan breads, bread sticks, olive, hummus, terrines, and soup de jour. The food was literally laid out on a ‘chef’s table’ where you could mix and match what you had to eat. I loved this concept and really enjoyed getting to sample different tastes and dishes, it was the perfect introduction to our dining experience. It was also a nice touch that the restaurant ensured my dad had plenty of gluten-free bread as he was unable to try the breads and bread sticks from the chef’s table.
For mains and dessert we chose from the menu. Options for mains included roast beef with red wine jus and mushroom risotto, however, I opted for the chicken supreme which was served with roast potatoes and mixed vegetables. The chicken was tender and perfectly complemented by the tantalising sauce.
With such a high quality of food on offer, I was eagerly awaiting dessert (I’ve such a sweet tooth), however before it arrived we were surprised – and very delighted – by the arrival of a beautifully presented plate of handmade biscuits to wish my mum a happy birthday. With a chocolate bourbon emblazoned with AC Hotel, short bread and a luscious jammie dodger. After we all had a taste of these fabulous sweet treats, our desserts were served. I selected the brownie which was crispy yet gooey and served warm with fresh cream. I practically licked my plate clean it was that delectable.
Novelli is a modern and stylish restaurant with a spacious and elegant setting. The staff were absolutely superb, they were professional yet friendly and I was incredibly impressed with their catering towards coeliacs, ensuring my dad’s experience was every bit as good as everyone else’s. The food is creative, beautifully presented and tasted divine whilst the Sunday lunch menu, with two-courses for £18.95 or three-courses for £22.95, was very reasonably priced. I think we’ve found our new family favourite restaurant!
LittleBurch 