Council Announces March Dates for Epic Outdoor Fire Performance

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is delighted to announce that it will be hosting the spectacular fire performance, Fireside Stories, by renowned circus company, Nikki & JD and Lost Dog, this March in Newry, Downpatrick and Newcastle.

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Council has been collaborating with the award-winning circus company to create an outdoor show that combines acrobatics, dance, theatre and storytelling to re-enact the original poem, Beowulf. 

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund, aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

Renowned traditional seanchaí (storyteller) Steve Lally, will open the show with the retelling of some of our epic Irish myths and legends accompanied by a fire-eater and bodhrán player.  This will be followed by the main event, an exhilarating fire performance carefully choregraphed to take people on a dark and funny journey into the world of Beowulf. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrnes said, “We are delighted to be hosting Fireside Stories in three different outdoor locations across our district, celebrating our landscapes, places and spaces.  The performers specialise in a unique blend of skills in circus and contemporary dance and the manipulation of fire to achieve strong storytelling that packs an emotional punch. This free event is designed to bring families out of their homes and into our towns and city at this time of year and should not be missed. We are pleased to have the event funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.”

“In addition to Fireside Stories, we have a fantastic St Patrick’s Day events programme planned for Newry and Downpatrick on Monday 17 March.  These events provide opportunities to bring people together, foster a sense of belonging, celebrate shared traditions and stimulate economic growth.  Please do join us for a fantastic month of entertainment.”

Put the dates in your diary, Fireside Stories will be in the Grove Car Park, opposite St Patrick’s Square, Downpatrick on Thursday 13 March, Newcastle Event Space, behind the Leisure Centre on Friday 14 March and in Albert Basin, Newry on Saturday 15 March.  Each night will start at 7.30pm and further information can be found on www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/arts