It’s St. Patrick’s day here at HC/LB (and everywhere, for that matter). We were reminded when half of our co-workers went out for liquid lunches today, and when the 10 Freeway was clogged by traffic and accidents doubtlessly the result of some tomfoolery. But now as we nurse our own celebratory black and tan, we would be remiss if we didn’t a) give Irish culture its due, and b) give a little love to Belfast. Sure, there’s still an insane amount of conflict in Ireland, but the capital of Northern Ireland has made significant strides towards cleaning up (and we’ll give them this: their roads are a hell of a lot better than Dublin’s….sorry, Dublin).
The Crescent Arts Centre is one such example of this renaissance. A mainstay since 1980 and considered Belfast’s best-kept secret, the Crescent is dedicated to both putting on fine art showings (concerts, theatre, dance, exhibitions) and helping members of the community further their education in the aforementioned fields. And if you’re not in town long enough to sign up for one of their reasonably-priced classes, you can enjoy the end-product in several yearly festivals and other performances as detailed on their website.
Part of this city’s hopping nightlife is its frequent concerts here, including next Friday’s concert given by the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra. Celebrating their 15th anniversary, the present orchestra will be joined by some of its brightest alumni to celebrate its birthday in the CAC’s elegant digs in the former Victoria College. For a mere 5 pounds and a show that starts at 7:30 pm, you’ll get a great night of big band numbers, the perfect concoction to get you jazzed (no pun intended) for a night of prolonged St. Patty’s celebrations.
And you thought we were just all about the classical music here.
Thanks, Moochin Photoman!
Crescent Arts Centre
2-4 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
+44 28 90242338
http://www.crescentarts.org/
