The plush Grand Opera House and modern Waterfront Hall are Northern Ireland’s premier theatrical venues. Smaller venues include the Crescent and Old Museum Arts Centres. The four sites offer a varied programme of drama, ballet, opera, circus, comedy and Irish dance. The Lyric Theatre, where Liam Neeson performed before becoming a household name, concentrates on serious drama and is scheduled for redevelopment.

Belfast is particularly rich in art venues. These include the Ulster Museum, the Ormeau Baths and the Naughton Gallery. Smaller in size are the Bell, Bradbury, Eakin, Emer, and Fenderesky galleries.

The Odyssey complex houses a 14-screen cinema and two large format screens. Another mainstream venue is Movie House. The only art-house venue is the two-screen Queen’s Film Theatre.

The Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, which is held over 11 days in April/May, serves up an eclectic programme designed to challenge, amuse and inspire.