Newry, Mourne and Down Season of Classes in Newry Town Hall

A short season of classes and workshops has been organised as part of a gradual re-opening of activities at Newry Town Hall.

Tai Chi will be delivered by Petesy Burns who has tutored many in the art of Tai Chi, most recently delivering successful outdoor classes. Tai Chi is a gentle flowing exercise which promotes relaxation and physical and mental balance. It also works on strengthening the core and is a cardiovascular exercise. As the nature of the movement is slow and gentle, Tai Chi is suitable for all regardless of age or ability. Registration remains open for this class which starts on Tuesday 26 October and runs for six weeks between 12.30pm and 1.30pm. The fee is £30.

Drawing and Acrylic Painting for Beginners will be delivered by Vincent McDonnell, a well- known artist and tutor.  This is a class to assist and encourage the absolute beginner with drawing and painting. Materials will be included in first class and will be advised thereafter for the rest of the series. Registration remains open for the six-week course, which opens on Wednesday 27 October (10am to 12pm). The fee is £30.

The Guitar Workshop for 11 to 15-year-olds on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 October (2pm to 4pm) will be delivered by Mickey Murphy. Mickey Murphy is a long-established local performing and recording artist with two solo albums to his credit. He has taught hundreds of people to play guitar and sits on the examining panel of the London College of Music. This is a two-day introduction to playing the acoustic guitar in which participants will explore chords, strumming patterns, playing songs, reading tablature, entering grade exams, tuning the instrument and much more. Limited places are available and pre-booking is essential. The fee is £15.

A Porcelain Christmas Decoration Workshop will be delivered by Newry born Ceramicist Amy Mackle on Friday 4 December (4pm to 7pm).  Amy has hosted many series of classes and workshops in the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre and this workshop will enable participants to produce their very own hand made decorations. This event is suitable for those aged 16 and over. The fee is £10.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Cathy Mason said she was delighted to see the new arts classes opening in Newry Town Hall. “A warm welcome awaits in these classes, a promise of exciting opportunities to come in the arts,” she said.

To book for any of the above classes and for further details, please contact the Arts Centre on 07967 592 882 or email: jacqueline.turley@nmandd.org