After the long wait centre is ready for first audience

After the long wait centre is ready for first audience

30 November 2011

AFTER a year of building works, Down Arts Centre will throw open her doors and welcome old friends and new this weekend for its Christkindl celebration event.

The beautifully refurbished auditorium will host its first live performance on Saturday at 8pm.

Pip Utton will be bringing in the festive season with his show, A Christmas Carol by Candlelight to Downpatrick. Using the and acting directions developed by Dickens himself, Pip will recreate the most popular of Dickens’ public readings in this almost totally candlelit performance.

On Sunday 4 the Wireless Mystery Theatre will perform their festive show, A Christmas Present to You. 

Originally broadcast on American radio, this Christmas special contains three classic radio plays as well as other festive treats. Wireless Mystery Theatre (in vintage dress) will recreate the in-studio excitement of the night, with music, sound effects and commercials from the time.

For those who can’t wait until Saturday night, there’s also the opportunity for a sneak preview of the centre tomorrow evening.

Enjoy the Christmas lights switch on in Festival Square then follow the Snow Queen to Scotch Street to listen to the big sound of Festival Brass, watch the artist in residence demonstrate gold/silversmithing, wander through the craft exhibition in the gallery and pick up that special gift in the craft shop.

On Friday Down Arts Centre will also be open from 10am to 9pm for shopping and a wander around the refurbished venue. 

Visitors can stroll through the exhibition, watch jewellery demonstrations in the gallery and buy some of the local craft that will be on sale in the craft shop.

From 6pm guitar master Paul McMordie will also be playing some acoustic tunes to keep visitors entertained.

To purchase tickets for A Christmas Carol and A Christmas Present To You (£10/£8 concession for each event), contact the box office on 028 4461 0747, or visit the Down Arts Centre website at www.downartscentre.com.