Coming Soon
Blackjack + Jai Sian, Sound of Belfast
Strand presents a night of Soul
with Blackjack + Jai Sian
support by Crystal Dawn
Part of Sound of Belfast, held at Harland and Wolff Staff Club
From São Paulo to Belfast via Bangkok, Blackjack + Jai Sian serve up jazz, funk, soul, and serious groove with zero apologies. Led by award-winning Brazilian drummer/producer Henrique ‘Blackjack’ Franco and fronted by smoky-voiced powerhouse Jai Sian (yes, the one who had all four chairs spinning on The Voice UK), this genre-bending collective is anything but background music.
With a live band tighter than your favourite jeans after Christmas, they blend Herbie Hancock’s funk, Erykah Badu’s soul, and Portishead’s moody magic into a sound that hits hard and stays with you.
Come for the musicianship. Stay for the vibe. Leave slightly transformed.
Tickets £15
Harland and Wolff is a social club and will have much cheaper drinks than city centre bars!
Getting to Harland and Wolff:
Address: 8-10 Dundela Ave, BT4 3BQ (not far from the Strand)
Buses: G1 10 min walk. 3 c/f/b 5 min walk.
Parking - no parking on Dundela Ave, park on Newtownards Road - less than 5 min walk
Melodrama Matinees: Far From Heaven (2002)
Part of TOO MUCH: Melodrama on Film in Belmont Bowling Club
With free popcorn & a special introduction
Todd Haynes’ acclaimed homage to 1950s melodrama revisits the glossy world of suburbia with a subversive twist. Julianne Moore gives a luminous performance as Cathy Whitaker, a perfect housewife whose seemingly idyllic life unravels when she discovers her husband’s secret (Dennis Quaid) and falls in love with her Black gardener (Dennis Haysbert).
With exquisite cinematography, Elmer Bernstein’s stunning score, and bold visual design, Far From Heaven is both a loving tribute to Douglas Sirk’s classics and a radical re-examination of race, sexuality and gender roles. It is an emotionally devastating and visually sumptuous experience, reminding us of melodrama’s power to explore forbidden desire and social hypocrisy.
Each screening includes complimentary popcorn, an introduction to the film’s themes and production and bespoke ‘Talking Points’ to take home, helping spark conversations long after the credits roll.
Tickets £6
(Community tickets of £4 for groups and regulars, & free carer tickets)
The Strand: Our Past, Present and Future
Thursday 31 July, 11am SOLD OUT
NEW DATE - Thursday 27th November, 11am
The Strand: Our Past, Present and Future
FREE
A unique chance to find out what is going on behind the current hoarding at the Strand, and gain insight into our exciting renovation. Find out about the rapid progress to date, learn about recent fascinating discoveries in our historic building, and hear about our plans for the future.
Hear from our Heritage Officer and representatives from Martin & Hamilton who are currently working on site! There will even be a chance to see some of the exciting finds unearthed during recent renovation work.
Part of our ‘Heritage Talks’ programme: free talks about the heritage of the local area, followed by a cuppa and a chat. Hosted by the Strand at our pop-up venue at Belmont Bowling Club. Made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund
Melodrama Matinees: The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
Part of TOO MUCH: Melodrama on Film
With mulled wine, mince pies & a special introduction
This special Christmas Melodrama Matinee will feature festive touches, including mulled wine and a live crooner-style singer performing classic seasonal songs in the style of Sinatra and Crosby, creating a nostalgic holiday atmosphere.
Ernst Lubitsch’s beloved classic The Shop Around the Corner is a sparkling romantic drama set in a Budapest gift shop at Christmas. James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan star as co-workers who can’t stand each other in person, while unknowingly falling in love as anonymous pen pals.
With its warmth, wit, and emotional depth, the film is both a delightful holiday romance and a poignant exploration of longing, misunderstanding and human connection. Its charm has inspired countless remakes, but the original remains unsurpassed for its delicacy and heartfelt impact.
Each screening also includes a host introduction and Talking Points to take home, making this a perfect community celebration to close the season.
Tickets £6
(Community tickets of £4 for groups and regulars, & free carer tickets)
. 
Dave Elliott Comedy night with Aaron Butler and Alan Irwin
at Harland & Wolff Staff Club7.30pm doors | 8pm start
Friday 29th August - RESCHEDULED
NEW DATE - Friday 5th December
The Strand presents a Christmas show of stand-up comedy with Dave Elliott, Aaron Butler and Alan Irwin + special guest
These seasoned comedians will take the stage to deliver their unique brand of humour. Known for their sharp writing and distinct styles, all three comedians have performed to packed rooms across the UK.
With Dave Elliott leading the charge, expect nothing short of the finest comedy, right here in East Belfast.
Tickets £15
About the venue: Harland & Wolff Staff Club is a relaxed social club with bar prices well below city centre rates!
Getting to Harland and Wolff
Address: 8-10 Dundela Ave, BT4 3BQ (not far from the Strand)
Buses: G1 10 min walk. 3 c/f/b 5 min walk.
Parking - no parking on Dundela Ave, park on Newtownards Road - less than 5 min walk
The Polar Express at the Ulster Transport Museum
The Polar Express Screening at the Ulster Transport Museum
All aboard for a magical Christmas adventure! On the 6th and 7th of December, bring the family to the Ulster Transport Museum for a special screening of The Polar Express. Doors open at 3pm, allowing ticket holders to explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits before the movie begins at 4pm. Tickets are £15, which includes museum entry to 'A' Galleries from 3pm, and a complimentary festive hot chocolate.
Based on the beloved children’s book, The Polar Express follows the enchanting journey of a young boy who takes an unforgettable train ride to the North Pole, discovering the spirit of Christmas along the way. With stunning visuals, a heartwarming story, and an enchanting soundtrack, this animated classic is a holiday favourite for all ages.
Embrace the festive spirit in this unique setting, surrounded by Northern Ireland’s transport history. Book your tickets and make The Polar Express part of your holiday celebrations.
Its A Wonderful Life at the Ulster Transport Museum
It’s A Wonderful Life Screening at the Ulster Transport Museum
Experience a holiday classic in a truly unique setting this December! Join us at the Ulster Transport Museum for a special screening of It’s A Wonderful Life on the 6th and 7th of December. Doors open at 7pm, offering you time to explore the Railway Gallery before the film begins at 8pm. With your £15 ticket, enjoy entry to 'A Galleries' from 7pm and a festive mulled wine on arrival.
Relive Frank Capra's 1946 masterpiece that follows George Bailey (James Stewart) as he’s guided by an angel to discover the profound impact he’s had on the lives of those around him. This heartwarming story of hope and redemption has become a cherished holiday tradition, reminding audiences of the importance of community, love, and kindness.
This evening promises to be more than just a film – it’s an invitation to experience the magic of Christmas in a nostalgic setting, surrounded by Northern Ireland’s rich transport heritage. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable holiday outing that brings together film, history, and festive cheer.
Celebration of Belfast Streets in Word and Song, with Arts Care
Thursday 29 January 2026, 11am
FREE
Celebration of Belfast Streets in Word and Song, in collaboration with Arts Care
Arts Care artist Paul Stevenson and musician Barry Macaulay will facilitate an interactive performance of song and art celebrating the rich heritage of Belfast Street Songs. Using the old Victorian Moving Panorama also known as Crankie Theatre they will have you singing along and reminiscing on bygone days.
The Strand’s Heritage Officer, Rosie Hickey, will also talk on the origin and evolution of some of East Belfast’s well-known streets.
Part of our ‘Heritage Talks’ programme: free talks about the heritage of the local area, followed by a cuppa and a chat. Hosted by the Strand at our ‘pop-up’ venue at Belmont Bowling Club. Made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund
