Arts & Theatre Events

Wander the galleries or take in a show with Visit Mourne. Our theatres, art centres and galleries are home to a busy calendar of events and festivals. Whether you’re a lover of musicals, or an art history buff, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. 

Theatre, Music and Workshops in Downpatrick 

A bustling hive of community arts, Downpatrick Arts Centre offers a busy calendar of events for all ages. Housed in the red brick walls of the old Downpatrick town hall, the centre is the beating heart of the local artistic community. 

A noted stopping point for touring shows from around the UK and Ireland, Downpatrick Arts Centre is the perfect venue for lovers of all things theatre. 

World Beating Music Events in Newry 

Celebrate Newry’s vibrant music scene at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. The centre has been the home of the arts in Newry City since 1982 and was renamed in 2003 in honour of the revered civil rights activist and patron of the arts. 

Spread over three floors, the Sean Hollywood centre comprises a 150 seat theatre, as well as two modern galleries and a number of teaching facilities. It’s also the stomping ground of the Newpoint Players, Cloughmore Male Voice Choir and the Newry Musical Feis. 

Get Some Much Needed DownTime 

What about a festival combining the area’s artistic credentials with its equestrian heritage? DownTime is a celebration of all things arts, music, history and horses in Downpatrick, where Ireland’s first ever horse race took place in 1685. 

Whizz between a multitude of events over the course of the festival, with highlights including an open air busking competition, and re-enactments of historical battles. With countless options for refreshments, DownTime is the perfect family escape under the June sun. 

Family Favourites in Annesley Hall 

Newcastle’s Annesley Hall brings amazing arts and entertainment to one of Northern Ireland’s best loved seaside towns. Housed in a former parish church hall, The Annesley Hall is one of Newcastle’s best loved venues. 

For a lively night on the town, why not check out the Newcastle Glees Musical Society, who rehearse and perform in The Annesley Hall. 

Musical Giants in Downpatrick 

It’s no secret that the people of Northern Ireland love their music. The Great Hall in Downpatrick is one of the region's leading venues for major musical events. The Great Hall is a hive of musical talent to say the least. 

Major artists like Van Morrison have stopped off to play in Downpatrick throughout the years. For a more theatrical experience, you’ll adore their calendar of musical theatre events, with performances from companies from around the UK and Ireland. 

A Modern Theatre in Victorian Style 

Want to combine the comforts of a modern show with the splendour and delight of the Victorian era. The 460 seat auditorium in Newry Town Hall is the place to go. Opened in 1893, the building hosts concerts, shows and lecture series. 

The Town Hall celebrates Newry’s unique place in history. Snap a photo with the statue of local hero Terence Bannon, the first Irishman to scale Everest. 

Legendary Acts and New Talent in Warrenpoint 

Warrenpoint Town Hall has attracted the biggest talents in Ireland for well over 100 years. The Victorian superstar, Percy French, was one of the first acts to perform there in the late 1800s. 

These days, it’s also home to some of the region’s finest up and coming talent. Check out the Warrenpoint Feis, the local pantomime and the Maiden of the Mournes Festival.