Arts Diary
OPENING OF
BLACKWELL’S
BOOKSHOP
Blackwell’s Bookshop recently held a launch party
at its new premises on University Road, Belfast. The
Queen’s University bookshop, which is also open
to members of the public, was officially opened by
renowned local playwright and author Paul McVeigh.
Managed by the remarkable Aine Feeney, the
bookshop stocks a fantastic mix of titles, from academic
texts to bestselling fiction, and also boasts a literary
treasure trove of goodies including stationery,
children’s fiction and board games. This centrally
located bookshop is spread over two levels and has a
truly eye-catching decor - the wallpaper in particular
being a real talking point - making it the perfect haven
to lose yourself in a good book.
Guests at the opening, including poets Patrick
McGarry and Francis O’Hare; Aine’s family, Ann, Bill
and William Feeney; and Blackwell’s staff members
Louise Sloan, Chris Disley and Megan Stith, were
treated to light bites from Dante’s Catering Group
and live music from David Ferris and Ryan Dodson.
Speaking at the launch, Blackwell’s chief executive
David Prescott spoke of how the company, being
known as an academic specialist, had coveted an
affiliation with Queen’s University and paid them
special thanks for, “finding this great space for us and
the significant commitment and investment they’ve
made in transforming this building and allowing us to
be here.”
Also addressing the congregated crowd, Paul
McVeigh discussed the magic of books and how they
enjoy a range of ‘international languages’ that can
be universally understood. As Paul then pronounced
the store officially open, it was lovely to have the
opportunity to soak up the atmosphere in the newest
addition to the literary scene in south Belfast.
The official opening of Blackwell’s Bookshop took
place on 30th April.Louise Sloan, Chris Disley
and Megan Stith.Patrick McGarry, Kellie
Burch and David Prescott.John Devlin, Paul Laverty
and Francis O’Hare.Charlene Doyle, Imogen
Page and Lauren Devlin.David Ferris and
Ryan Dodson.Ann, William, Aine and Bill Feeney.AWAy FROM THE TIDE EP LAuNCH
It is not every day you get to live like a rock star. However,
I recently had the opportunity to join Co Down girl band
Dea Matrona as they toured the streets of Belfast - aboard
a Belfast Sightseeing Bus - to promote their new EP, Away
From The Tide. The three-piece band, made up of Orláith
Forsythe and sisters Mollie and Mamie McGinn, are
already making waves after securing their biggest gig
to date, supporting Feeder as part of the Harmony Live
Festival in Hollywood on 1 June, as well as being added to
the Dalriada Festival lineup in July.
Originally established as a duo, Orláith and Mollie, who
were best friends at school, began their musical journey by
busking. However, last year, after being joined by drummer
Mamie, Dea Matrona was born. As I got to chat to the girls
between pitstops, they revealed their influences - both
musical and fashion - are rooted very much in the classical
rock era of the 70s but expanded they are also huge fans of
Irish singer/songwriter Imelda May.
As Dea Matrona belted out a diverse mix of songs from
originals to covers of classics, they were cheered on by Mari
and Garry Jackson from the Harmony Live festival; school
friends Amy and Emma Noble; and family members, Jaine
Forsythe, Linda Kerr and Nicola McGinn.
Away From The Tide was launched on 28th April.Amy and Emma Noble.Paul McVeigh and David Prescott.89Harmony Live Festival director Mari Jackson with
Linda Kerr, Jaine Forsythe and Nicola McGinn.Dea Matrona: Mamie McGinn,
Orláith Forsythe and Molly McGinn.