Belfast Children’s Festival launches programme

Running from 6-11 March, the programme of theatre, visual art, music and much more features a host of both international and local talent at venues across the city.

Centred on the MAC in the city’s Cathedral Quarter, more than 100 events and workshops, created for children aged 0-17, will take place in 13 locations.

Eibhlín de Barra, Director Young at Art, said: “This year’s festival is a mixture of pioneering work from local artists including Replay Theatre’s Untold Truth of Captain Hook, Kindermusik from critically acclaimed Belfast Ensemble and Helen Hall’s interpretive dance piece ‘Inside the Speaker’.

“The hilarious Paul Currie will have everyone in stiches with his own brand of edgy, off the wall comedy and grown up fans of Seedhead Arts’ Midweek Magic will have a chance to bring their children to the mini version.”

Ms de Barra added: “Our international programme has a Dutch focus for 2020 with performances of Tetris, Hermit and Jabberbabble.

“Meanwhile ‘Stick by Me’ from Scotland is a beautiful non-verbal performance for 3-6 year olds on the theme of friendship.”

The programme of events – billed as “Northern Ireland’s flagship international arts and cultural event for children” – is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Festival tickets are available from www.youngatart.co.uk with a maximum ticket price of £10.

Adults pay the same price as children, but much of the programme is free of charge.

Events take place both in and out of school time for schools, groups and families to attend.