Live from the Old Church Centre, Cushendun.

In this episode of Live from the Old Church Centre, Stephen Byrne is joined by Katy English to take a walk through everything coming up at this year’s Big Arts Weekend, running from 1–4 May 2026 in Cushendun.Now 13 years strong, the festival has grown from a bold idea before the Old Church Centre even opened into one of the highlights of the local calendar—bringing together arts, heritage and community across the village.Stephen and Katy chat through a packed programme including:Stand-up comedy to kick things off on Friday nightThe much-loved Share a Poem sessionA stunning wildlife photography exhibition showcasing local talentOutdoor experiences in Craigar Wood, including dance performances and guided wildlife walksFilm night, live music, and plenty of chances to get involvedA huge Family Fun Day on Sunday with markets, workshops, a petting zoo, dog show and moreThe ever-competitive sandcastle competition to round things off on MondayWhether you’re a regular or thinking of coming along for the first time, there’s something for everyone—and this episode gives you a flavour of what to expect.🎟️ Book tickets and view the full programme:https://theoldchurchcentre.com/big-arts-weekend/📸 Submit your photos for the wildlife photography exhibition:[email protected] listening, get planning… and we’ll see you at the Big Arts Weekend.

In this episode of Live from the Old Church Centre, Steve Byrne sits down with musician Ciarán Mulholland to talk about the upcoming St Patrick’s Day Céilí at the Old Church Centre in Cushendun. Ciarán explains the tradition of céilí dancing, the difference between long dances and set dancing, and what visitors can expect on the night – including live music, plenty of dancing, and a welcoming community atmosphere.episode 4 transcriptSteve also speaks with David Bell, frontman of the All Stars Tribute Show, who returns to the Old Church Centre on Easter Saturday after a hugely popular previous performance. David shares stories from a lifetime in music and gives a preview of the energetic show featuring tributes to artists including the Bay City Rollers, Freddie Mercury, Cher, Shania Twain and ABBA.episode 4 transcriptIf you enjoy live music, community events, and great nights out in the Glens of Antrim, this episode gives you a taste of what’s coming up.🎟 Find out more about these events and book tickets at:https://www.theoldchurchcentre.com

In this episode of Live from the Old Church Centre, we bring together two voices from very different worlds—both with powerful stories to tell.We’re joined by Peadar Connor, a Ballycastle-born multi-instrumentalist, ahead of his Debut concert at the Old Church Centre. Peadar talks about his musical roots, blending classical, traditional, and contemporary influences, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming live performance.We also sit down with Allison Morris, one of Northern Ireland’s most respected crime journalists, ahead of her International Women’s Day event in Cushendun. Allison reflects on the realities of modern journalism, trust in the media, high-profile investigations, and what it really means to hold power to account in 2026.Two conversations. Two perspectives. One episode that moves from music to media—and the stories that shape our communities.🎟️ Tickets & events: www.theoldchurchcentre.com🎧 Listen, subscribe & share to support the podcast and help us keep these conversations going.

In this episode of Live from the Old Church Centre, we look ahead to two standout nights in our winter programme — live music and living tradition.Host Stephen Byrne is joined remotely by Connor McCann & the Heroine Choir, the Glenravel-born songwriter and bandleader whose music blends folk, harmony-led arrangements, and storytelling rooted in Irish tradition. Connor talks about his musical journey, his influences, and what audiences can expect when he performs live at the Old Church Centre on 31 January.Later in the episode, James Skivington joins us in person to explore the meaning and staying power of Burns Night, ahead of its return to the Centre on 24 January. From poetry and music to shared heritage and humour, James reflects on why this annual celebration continues to resonate across generations and communities.🎟️ Book tickets and see what’s coming up:👉 www.theoldchurchcentre.com🎧 Listen to or download Connor McCann’s music:👉 www.connormccann.bandcamp.comIf you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe, and share — it helps more people discover the stories, music, and events coming out of the Old Church Centre.Host: Stephen ByrneProducer: William Colvin

In the very first episode of Live from the Old Church, host Steve Byrne sits down with William Colvin, Chair of Cushendun Building Preservation Trust, to tell the story behind the building — and the people who refused to let it fade away.Recorded inside the Old Church Centre itself, this episode traces the journey from deconsecration and uncertainty to full restoration and reinvention as a vibrant arts, heritage, and community space at the heart of the Glens. William reflects on how he became involved nearly two decades ago, the challenges of securing funding, restoring a historic building, and keeping it sustainable for the future.The conversation also touches on what makes the Centre work today: volunteers, community buy-in, music and cultural events, younger voices stepping forward, and the reality of running a charity where passion often has to stretch further than the budget.This episode is part history lesson, part personal story, and part honest look at what it really takes to keep a rural community space alive. A fitting place to start.www.theoldchurchcentre.com