RELIVE Frank McCourt’s early years with the musical adaptation of his memoir Angela’s Ashes. The world premiere of Angela’s Ashes – The Musical has hit the Lime Tree Theatre in McCourt’s native Limerick and runs until 15 July. Taken from the Pulitzer-Prize-winning book, the story portrays the struggle of McCourt’s parents to provide for him and his brothers in 1940s Ireland. Staring Eoin Cannon as Frank, the musical is now in Limerick before it goes on to tour Dublin and Belfast. For more information on show dates and to book tickets visit www.limetreetheatre.ie or contact the box office on (061) 953 400.

EXPERIENCE Ballina Salmon Festival, one of the largest community based, family-friendly festivals in the West of Ireland. This annual event is currently being held in the North Mayo capital until 16 July. The festival was established in 1964 to celebrate Ballina’s plentiful fishing opportunities and every year up to 200,000 people attend the festival, which prides itself on being particularly family focused, with one third of the festival’s programme dedicated to children’s events. The festival will include an International Evening, Heritage Day, Mardi Gras and fireworks display, along with a host of other events. For a more information and a full line-up see www.ballinasalmonfestival.ie.

SING along with host of well-known artists at DalriadaLIVE, as part of the Dalriada Festival. The music acts will play on 14 and 15 July at Glenarm Castle, Co Antrim, in what is boasted as Northern Ireland’s premier family music event. On 14 July, country superstar Nathan Carter returns to the festival with his energetic show and will be supported by Donna Taggart. The Fureys will headline on 15 July and are sure to treat fans to old and new favourites. Tickets for both nights are available from www.dalriadafestival.ie and www.ticketmaster.ie. Doors open from 5:30pm.

VISIT the Ark in Dublin this summer for a fun interactive experience for all the family. This dedicated cultural attraction for children changes its programme of performances, exhibitions and creative workshops every few weeks, so a different experience is to be expected with each visit. Located in the heart of Temple Bar, the Ark aims to spark childhood imagination by making and sharing art for, by and about children. Tickets range in price from €5 to €12, depending on what programme is being undertaken. For further enquiries ring (01) 670 7788 or email boxoffice@ark.ie.

ENTER into history at the Innishkeen July Road Evening Festival by immersing yourself in Kavanagh Country in the 1920s and 1930s. This celebration of the work of Innishkeen native Patrick Kavanagh takes places on 15 and 16 July. The poet’s writing is deeply rooted in his local landscape and this is central to the event. Enjoy recitals and re-enactments at the many sites immortalised by the poet. The festival will come to a close with a BBQ and music at Inniskeen Social Club on Sunday at 6pm. A weekend ticket costs €10. For information and booking phone (042) 937 8560.