Raquel McKee aka Rainbow Ashwood Jamaican @Feb OMN

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Created: 07 February 2020

The colour of Jamaica, its rhythm and rhyme, its romance and history are imbedded in its poetry, music, song and dance.

Like this island it portrays images from a strong culture and mysticism and one of her spritual Daughters' will be our special guest for February's Open Mic. We welcome the return of Raquel McKee aka Rainbow Ashwood Jamaican.

Rainbow Ashwood Jamaican

Rainbow Ashwood Jamaican, a Caribbean born poet, storyteller and actress living on the island of Ireland is a repeated Arts Council Northern Ireland awardee, and recently was commissioned to write for the National Lottery Heritage Funded Links and Legacy 400 project run by ACSONI (African & Caribbean Support Organisation Northern Ireland). In 2019 she performed her commissioned pieces at Gala NIA in Titanic Belfast, headlined at Lit Up open mic night, performed within her cultural workshop to Herbert Smith Freehills law firm, read at Hillsborough Festival, as well at the East Side Arts Festival, and at Poetry Ireland at the X Borders Transitions showcase, amongst other events. In 2017 she performed at the John Hewitt Festival Week in Armagh, and returned in 2018 in the role of Asha in the Kabosh Theatre production Lives in Translation. She is delighted to be able to return. Samples of her work can be found in Four x Four Issue 28, The Corridor Literary publication -X Borders Issue and Writing Home Anthology by Dedalus Press.

February 28th doors 8pm start 8.30pm BYOP Bring your own favourite Poem, read it all or just a stanza!  (4 OR 5 lines). Usual entry,rules,benefits and fun. see u @ Abbey Lane Theatre.

Packed Abbey Lane for Liz Weir & Jan OMN

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Created: 01 February 2020

Well we got this decade's Open Mic's of to a brilliant start. A full house for Liz Weir's first visit to Abbey Lane and Armagh Theatre Group coincided with first visits by fellow storyteller Joseph Heywood; Thomas Mallon musician /singer;  and 'Pat the Novice' yarns of dying priest and philosophy. 

The night started with a communal  tongue-in-cheek singalong to acknowledge the exit of Britain from EU influence from 11pm that night.  We quickly moved on and introduced Liz Weir as our special guest for January.  A consummate professional, Liz had the audience on her side straight away and regailed us with wonderful stories of Marriage and hard drinking witches in London and  Romance between Fermanagh's kingdom and English aristocrats.

The Open Mic started with  the talented Sophie Ross from Keady with an orginal song written by her that day. Not titled before performing the crowd when asked  afterwards favoured 'Sometimes' ...brilliant singer who should go far. Next up Mark Brownlee ;poems inspired from songs, Jimmy Rafferty; 'Barred of Armagh' which mentioned  40yrs of recent local history, Thomas Healy on tin whistle and Cornet (but not at the same time); Laurane sang Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond beautifully, Joe McCool with a passing joke;Joseph Heywood's story The Coyote and the stars;Theo Sinton from Magherlin, on guitar singing Murl Haggard's 'Today I started loving you again' and  wise words in 'Faster horse, younger women,older whiskey, more money' ;Malachi with his  'Fund me a lift' poetic plea for MOT. Thomas Mallon from Keady singing/guitar cover Lion's roar (First Aid Kit) class act; 'Pat the Novice' from Crossmaglen,the dying priest story; At this point Liz was up again with Valentine story, Robbie Burns and her Witches story. Dymphna quickly brought the night back from its heights with her inimitable humour, Tim went shopping with his poem; Damien Mallon sang Nell Flattery's drake;Sophie was back by popular demand and sang 'Rocky Racoon' to rapturous appluse. and our night ended with a poem from Rachel Toner on relationships. A wonderful night which also incuded Mick Mc Connell's AldiLidi song.

Thanks to Liz Weir and Joseph coming all the way from Cushendall  and to all who  performed. Thanks to Allan on sound/lights and projections; to the ladies at the door,serving drinks  and cleaning up  and to Tim for keeping them under control. But mostly to our wonderful supporters who make the evening what it is...the BEST Open Mic in Armagh.

Seamus Mallon co-founder of ATG and life time friend

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Created: 29 January 2020

Death Notice for Seamus Mallon
The Committee and Members Of Armagh Theatre Group deeply regret the death of Seamus Mallon our co-founder and long time friend. Without his foresight and drive for inclusivity we would not exist. He set a standard that we have been proud to maintain over the past 53 years. Deepest sympathy to his daughter Orla, son in law Mark, granddaughter Lara, sisters and entire family circle.
M.Rennie (Chairperson) M. Kelly (Secretaty)

1st Open Mic Night of 2020 welcomes Liz Weir

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Created: 10 January 2020

We recommence our series of monthly Open Mic Night's and kick off the new decade with one of the biggest names in the literary world of children's books and storytelling on this island, Liz Weir.

Liz Weir is a County Antrim based storyteller with an international reputation.  She has performed on five continents, sharing her tales with audiences of all ages and is currently Storyteller in Residence for Libraries NI. Liz has written 27 books for children and is currently working on a memoir looking back on her long career as a librarian and storyteller.

We also celebrate our Scottish roots on 31st January and give a nod to the bard Robbie Burns. (good name for a bridge) and open our doors to all musicians, writers,poets,singers + more projected humour from 8pm onwards. Bring your own tipple,£5 entry and a chance to shine on stage for 5mins. Co Armagh's best!

Make a dramatic present this Christmas for all the Family

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Created: 23 December 2019

Tickets to see IMPACT (Extended production) this coming June 2020 in Marketplace Studio Theatre.

After a sold out run in Abbey Lane Theatre of the story of Armagh's train disaster in 1889 and in response to continued requests to see this Armagh Theatre Group production, we are delighted to announce tickets are now on sale at Box Office, MarketPlace Theatre Armagh 0283752 1821

Seasonal Greetings from all at Armagh Theatre Group

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Created: 09 December 2019

To all our loyal supporters and friends may we wish you a peaceful, joyous and dramatic Christmas and hoping 2020

is not just a sign for good vision but a year when we open our eyes to all life's blessings. Happy New Year!

Armagh Theatre Group Productions 1998-2016

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Created: 09 December 2019

Sorry You were Out - by kind permission of David Braziel

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Created: 02 December 2019

                                                                'SORRY YOU WERE OUT'  By David Braziel

                                                            (A first reading by David at Open Mic Night Abbey Lane Theatre Armagh 29/11/19)

Date: Mon, 2 Dec 2019 17:32:12 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Delivery Mr Braziel, We attempted to deliver a parcel today but you were out. Our driver left the small crate containing a live game bird in the shed at the rear of your property and the accompanying ornamental fruit tree is behind your wheelie bin. Thank you for using Acme Delivery Services.

Date: Tue, 3 Dec 2019 18:04:10 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Delivery Mr Braziel, We attempted delivery of a parcel today but you were out. Our driver noticed that yesterday’s crate was still in your shed and he was concerned for the bird’s welfare so reclaimed it and took it with the two additional ornamental birds in todays delivery to leave with your neighbour at number 27. Your fruit tree is still behind the wheelie bin. Thank you for using Acme Delivery Services.

Date: Wed, 4 Dec 2019 17:09:43 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Delivery Mr Braziel, We attempted delivery of a parcel today but you were out. Noticing that the delivery contained more live birds our driver took them to your neighbour at number 27 who was reluctant to accept them saying that: 1. You had still not collected the previous deliveries and 2. She was not fond of chickens and these three smelled strongly of garlic. She was eventually persuaded to take delivery of the birds but we urge you to collect them as soon as possible. Your fruit tree is now in your wheelie bin. Thank you for using Acme Delivery Services.

Date: Thu, 5 Dec 2019 17:49:31 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Delivery Mr Braziel We attempted delivery of a parcel today but you were out. I am told that your neighbour at number 27, possibly alerted by the calling from todays package, refused to open her door and was, in the drivers words, "literally spitting feathers" when he did manage to speak to her. We left this latest parcel containing four more birds with your neighbour at number 31. If you are speaking to your neighbour from number 27 could you tell her that the large bottle of carpet and upholstery cleaner she ordered for next day delivery are at number 31 and also that our driver was upset by her tone and her questioning of his parentage. The driver has requested a transfer to a different route and a new driver will now be serving your area. Thank you for using Acme Delivery Services

. Date: Fri, 6 Dec 2019 18:21:50 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Delivery Mr Braziel, I am pleased to inform you that today’s package was successfully delivered. This was fortunate because both of your neighbours were very clear with our driver that having finally got rid of the previous packages they would only accept future deliveries over, and I quote, their "dead bodies". The new driver has raised a complaint that he sustained a number of minor injuries to his hand from several sharp beaks while putting five jewellery boxes through your letterbox. He also added that given the subsequent commotion coming from inside your hallway he could not guarantee what state the parcels would be in when you arrive home. I refer you to our dangerous pets policy attached. Thank you for using Acme Delivery Services.

Date: Sat, 7 Dec 2019 16:55:17 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: David Braziel <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Subject: Excess Charge Due Dear Mr Braziel I am writing to inform you of an excess charge on your account due to todays delivery. Since you were not at home to pay the additional charge our driver returned the crate to our warehouse. The delivery was described on the manifest as containing six live geese on departure but on arrival it was found to also included three dozen eggs. We have had an interesting discussion in the office about whether this would constitute additional weight but it certainly adds additional volume so the penalty charge is due. No further deliveries will be made to your house until your account is settled.

Date: Sun, 8 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: All Customers Subject: Possible Delivery Delays Dear Customer We are writing to all of our customers today to inform you of possible delays in our delivery schedule. During an incident at our depot this morning seven members of our sorting team each suffered a broken arm while trying to prevent the escape of a group of large, aquatic birds. Due to the damage caused and the ensuing chaos in the warehouse we were unable to determine who the intended recipient of these birds was (although we think we can guess). The police have been informed since the birds are a protected species belonging to the crown estate so should never have been put in the postal system in the first place. The warehouse will be closed for several days while we regroup and recover. In compensation for any inconvenience caused we are entering all customers into a prize draw with the chance to win one of six traditionally stuffed, oven-ready geese - a perfect roast for your Christmas table.

Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2019 10:14:03 +0000 From: Fred Austin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; To: All Customers Subject: Recent News Dear Customer I’m sure you have all been following the news over the past five days about the spate of kidnappings across the country involving very specific numbers of dairy workers, ballerinas, peers of the realm, musicians and drummers. You may also be aware of the dawn raid on our warehouse this morning which, we are pleased to say, resulted in the safe discovery of all 50 of the kidnap victims who were unharmed but naturally very distressed. We would like to make it clear that Acme Delivery Services had no involvement in this crime and are unable to explain how they all came to be in our warehouse, which has been closed since the swan incident. We are, of course, helping the police with their enquiries. Given recent events we find ourselves unable to handle the stress of running a Christmas delivery service so today will be our final day of deliveries and you will receive no more emails from us. if you were expecting a parcel but were not at home today to receive it, try looking behind your wheelie bin. 

Georgian's have a ball at Open Mic

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Created: 02 December 2019

You would have been forgiven in thinking you had stepped back in time as you entered Abbey Lane last Friday. Dozens of elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen gathered to experience the first Georgian Dressed Open Mic Night as part of the Georgian Festival weekend in Armagh.

Our entertainment began on a youthful high as Mariann Mc Bride sang beautifully and then Lochlan McBride played Bach on the organ. A first for OMN and hopefully the start of many appearances to come from these talented siblings.

Byddi Lee written word on the dangers of double chocolate,Peter Kelly sang 'Arthur McBride' as a Christmas song with the aid of a real McBride.Pat Fairon recited Goldsmith (the most popular poet of Georgian Ireland), Alex King on 5 string banjo, Laurane Veron sang 'Amazing Grace' in her strong french accent and David Braziel christening his new work 'Sorry you were out' for its first airing . (this will be on our website shortly for you to experience, with kind permission from David.

Joe McCool poem and tin whistle,Tim Hanna, Bridie Heaney and Wilma Campbell 'Georgian Election',Malachi Kelly with a Georgian vision of 'Armagh and whatabout your Da' and followed by 'The boys from Co Armagh'. Dymphna Ferron more uncensored humour and verse, Ann Gilmartin story of the moonless dark winter on the Norfolk Broads;Claudia Clendenning singing Opera; a return of Peter on guitar and finally;

The Best dressed competition. The ladies section was won through a show of hands then a toss of a coin eventually by Laurane.  The Gents seen Malachi knocked into second place by some blatant gerrymandering which enabled Mervyn Dickson to squeeze home.

Well done to all participants and an audience who wholeheartedly got into the swing of Georgian fancy dress.

No Open Mic in December so next January 31st 2020!!!! Festive greeting to all and a happy Near Ear.

Georgian Fancy Dress Open Mic Fri 29th Nov

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Created: 16 November 2019

Go back in time for a few hours on the 29th Nov and be entertained in Georgian style at our world famous Open Mic Night.

Guests and contributors are encouraged to dress up. Don a wig, plaster on make up and lipstick. Pull on a pair of knee length stockings over your shapely calfs

and wiggle your toes into raised buckled shoes. Ladies can do something similar!.

Prizes for the best dressed Lady and Gentleman and a guarenteed great night's entertainment with complementary glass of punch/wine/coffee/tea and nibbles.

This is the last Open Mic for 2019 so a big crowd is expected - doors open before 8pm and show starts 8.30pm to finish.