Look up at the stars …

And maybe try to photograph them! The Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies has launched an astrophotography competition “Reach for the Stars”, and is calling on people with an interest in photography and astronomy to submit images. There are two categories for submissions – Out of This World – images of the solar system and Back on Earth – astro-landscape images that capture elements such as cityscapes, buildings or nature. Last year’s winner, Josh Mathews, depicted the night sky over Crocnaraw on the Connemara coast (pictured). Prizes include a tour of Dunsink Observatory and the opportunity to peer through Ireland’s largest refractor telescope, a €500 voucher for photographic equipment and participation in a follow-up exhibition. For details, visit www.dias.ie. 

Take in a show

Winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, Chicago is the longest running American musical in Broadway and West End history. It’s coming to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from April 5 – 16, so time to book a ticket! Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago’s sexy, sassy score includes the show-stopping songs Razzle Dazzle, Cell Block Tango, and All That Jazz. Why not upgrade a visit by joining the Circle Club? It’s a private members club at the theatre which offers annual memberships (with family to corporate rates available) and lots of benefits including private lounge access for every show, the best seats in the house, an extensive menu and a luxurious space on the top floor of the theatre, making any performance that extra bit special. And make sure to book ahead for a very special show coming across the May bank holiday weekend, Nederlands Dans Theater will bring their second company, NDT 2, to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre  for two limited performances on Monday May 2 and Tuesday May 3 2022. The three-part performance features dance by a trio of very different but celebrated international choreographers: Marco Goecke, Hans van Manen and Johan Inger and features music by Tori Amos. Tickets for both shows are available now via www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

Support Ukraine

The Abbey Theatre is partnering with a group of Irish artists for Solidarity, a night of performances, poetry and song to support those affected by the war in Ukraine. The event will raise money for a number of charities working with victims of forced migration worldwide. Hosted by Panti Bliss, Solidarity will feature musical performances from Camille O’Sullivan, Kila and Maria Doyle Kennedy, readings from playwright Mark O’Halloran, author Sinead Gleeson, performance artist Amanda Coogan and actor Stephen Rea among others. The performances will include a mix of both Ukrainian and Irish literature and song too. Taking place next Sunday, April 10 at 7pm, audiences can purchase a ticket at a price point they can afford (€25/€30/€40/€50/ €75/€100) and all of the box-office takings will be donated to the Irish Refugee Council, Doras and Irish Emergency Alliance; www.abbeytheatre.ie.

Enjoy some opera

On Sunday, April 3, The Awakening Limerick Concert series begins in the University Concert Hall at 3pm with a programme of opera favourites from classics such as La bohéme, The Marriage of Figaro and La Traviata. It’s a chance to hear some of Ireland’s most promising opera singers perform some of the greatest pieces in the operatic canon. The series will continue over three Sunday afternoons – the next in the series being Sunday, May 8.  Tickets are from €20; www.uch.ie. Opera lovers should also note that bookings will open on Tuesday, April 5 for the 71st Wexford Festival Opera, which will run this year from October 21 – November 6; www.wexfordopera.com. 

Sign up for a transformative course

If you struggle to get to sleep or stay asleep, or find yourself ruminating on the past or worrying about the future, then this new online course could be a solution. Launching on April 4 for eight weeks, “Light Up Your World” promises to be a truly transformative programme, led by Irish hypnotherapist Fiona Brennan, that is based on up-to-date research in the areas of hypnosis, positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, neuroscience and mindfulness. The online programme is currently open for pre-registration, with an early bird offer of €99 – the full price is €149. Brennan will guide participants on how to release anxiety, feel powerful and sleep peacefully. For more details, visit www.thepositivehabit.com. 

Check out some new talent

Zampas Bar & Restaurant at Hard Rock Hotel Dublin has relaunched its popular New Breed Sessions, where musicians get the chance to take centre stage every Wednesday from 7pm, hosted by singer-songwriter Ailsha. These sessions are bound to be a fun backdrop to any dining experience at Zampas. If you haven’t been, the menu combines the bold flavours of Peru with some Irish accents; www.zampas.ie.

Watch Anatomy of a Scandal

I’ve just finished reading Reputation by Sarah Vaughan, her follow-up novel to the equally excellent and gripping psychological thriller Anatomy of a Scandal, which is launching on Netflix. Set in London, the TV adaptation stars Sienna Miller, Michelle Dockery, Rupert Friend, Naomi Scott and Josette Simon. The plot revolves around a British MP and his wife who live in a rarefied world, which is suddenly disrupted when a scandalous secret comes to light (sounds very familiar – a case of life imitating art, perhaps?). The ensuing courtroom drama – where the truth lies between justice and privilege – threatens to tear down a government, a marriage and a barrister’s self esteem. If you haven’t got anything to read this weekend, I recommend this book and look forward to the adaptation coming to Netflix on April 15; www.netflix.com. 

Book a midweek break

For sea swimmers, the current Bedroom-To-Beach midweek package at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, Co Cork, includes two nights’ accommodation and breakfast with a five-course dinner on one evening in the Gulfstream Restaurant. Other treats include a signature (hot) cocktail in the Lounge, Ground Wellbeing Bath Salts and complimentary access to the heated Seawater Therapy Pool, Gym & Relaxation Areas. Valid from Sunday to Thursday, this is from €275 per person sharing; www.inchydoneyisland.com. 

Update your tablescape

It may be a tad chilly outside, but we can still set a bright, spring table. Look no further than the new Easter collection which has just landed at The Designed Table. Bamboo placemats with yellow or green borders, white cotton or linen napkins with a yellow or green embroidered edge and yellow and green velvet bow napkin rings are all lovely updates to add. These work beautifully with other pieces in The Designed Table collection, including (my favourite) the fresh green and white check tablecloth. For the full collection visit www.thedesignedtable.com. 

AND … Book your place for The Gloss Wedding Salon at The Merrion

There’s still time for brides-to-be to secure their place for the Wedding Salon at The Merrion. The Gloss and wedding planner extraordinaire Tara Fay will host an exclusive lunch at The Garden Room at The Merrion to celebrate with brides, sisters and friends, bridesmaids, mothers and mothers of the bride, on Sunday April 10 from 1pm-4:30pm. Join us for this unique opportunity to hear from the most influential people on the Irish contemporary wedding scene. As well as advice, information and guidance on all aspects of wedding planning from Tara Fay, there will be presentations on skincare by Dr Rosemary Coleman, make-up looks and tips by make-up artist Emma O’Byrne, tips on choosing and styling your wedding dress by Sharon Hoey and a special fashion show by Brown Thomas, showcasing rehearsal, day two and mother-of-the-bride looks from the new spring/summer 2022 contemporary and designer collections. Book your place through the GLOSS SHOP now: thegloss.ie/weddingsalonevent/.

Main featured image: Emma Coat from Magee1866; www.magee1866.com.