A new virtual programme of performances is to launch via Seamus Heaney’s HomePlace museum in Bellaghy village, following its physical closure due to the coronavirus crisis.
The ‘Keeping Going’ series of readings and performances will be aired via the HomePlace YouTube channel, beginning with renowned author Glenn Patterson on 29 April.
The line-up will further include singer-songwriter Anthony Toner, award-winning poets Maureen Boyle and Stephen Sexton, and writer/playwright, Rosemary Jenkinson.
A spokesperson said the series was named ‘Keeping Going’ to recall Seamus Heaney’s poem dedicated to the perseverance and stamina of his brother Hugh, a regular attendee in The Helicon theatre.
Glenn Patterson will be the first of the online performances
Councillor Martin Kearney, Chair of Mid Ulster District Council which owns and operates Seamus Heaney HomePlace said: “While the physical space may be temporarily closed, there’s no end to the creative ways in which the team at HomePlace has been continuing to engage with customers and audiences since the impact of the pandemic began.
“This aptly named performance programme will showcase some of the best of the local literary and musical talent directly to everyone’s own home place.
“Nothing beats the atmosphere of a live experience, but these online performances are the next best thing and I have no doubt we’ll have a virtual full-house.”
HomePlace recently reached it 130,000th visitor milestone, and although it is currently not open to the public, the team said it is committed to keeping their visitors entertained through Covid-19 restrictions.
Find more info about the virtual performances here.
