Portaferry’s new Arts and Heritage Centre, PORTICO, is opening its doors to the public on Saturday 27 February with a performance by ABBA tribute band The Bjorn Identity.
The ‘Grade A’ listed venue, which has undergone a £1.5m restoration, aims to transform cultural life in the Upper Ards.
In recent years the building has hosted numerous classical music concerts by international musicians, but is now planning concerts in a much wider diversity of musical genres.
PORTICO’s Arts and Heritage Officer Verity Peet said: “We wanted to kick off with something that would appeal right across the board. I’m hoping to see all ages dancing in the aisles!”
The news has been well received in the town. Cathie McKimm of Cultural Management Services and a resident of Portaferry said: “This is exactly what Portaferry needs – more things for people who live here to do and more things to attract people to Portaferry.”
John Dumigan, Chair of Portaferry Regeneration Ltd, added: “Along with the Portaferry Hotel reopening now and Exploris soon too, this is excellent news for Portaferry.
“I hope everyone comes along to support these very welcome developments.”
The Narrows Social, on Portaferry’s sea front, will also be helping everyone get into the spirit with a Swedish Café from 12-7pm. Proprietor Celia Spouncer said: “We’ll have delicious Swedish food to try and yes, meatballs too! Blue eye shadow is optional.”
Tickets for all concerts at PORTICO can be purchased via the website:
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