Raising a Laugh for Integrated Education

by Ulster Life • July 29, 2016 • Entertainment, Events • Comments (0) • 1998

He’ll be standing up for integrated education in September, but mentalist David Meade needed a wee sit down when he joined comedian Tim McGarry to launch a show in aid of the Integrated Education Fund (IEF). Pupils Anna Caskey (Forge Integrated PS) and Michael Small (Strangford Integrated College) were on hand to share in the fun.

Some very entertaining friends of the IEF will be performing on September 10 at the Ulster Hall with a one-off comedy special, which promises to tickle ribs and bend minds.

“Stand Up for Integrated Education” will present an exciting line-up of talent as Tim and David will be joined by comedians Wendy Wason, Neil Dougan and Colin Murphy – and more names will be added to the bill.

All performers are giving their time in support of the IEF, the charity which works to grow integrated education in Northern Ireland in response to parental demand.

David Meade said

“I really believe that if we all put our minds to it we could move Northern Ireland forward and build a truly united community. And bringing loads of people together to enjoy a night out is a great way to grow support for integrated education. “Stand Up for Integrated Education” promises to be a fantastic show for a fantastic cause.”

Tim McGarry added

“I don’t know why I’m here as I don’t like kids and I’m not even getting paid. However if it’s another opportunity to stand up at the Ulster Hall and rant about what’s ridiculous about Northern Ireland – and heaven knows, a divided education system is right up there – then I’m in.”

Commenting on the great line-up for the show, IEF Chief Executive Tina Merron said:

“Thank you Tim McGarry and David Meade for supporting our work through “Stand Up for Integrated Education”. And we’re grateful to Wendy Wason, Neil Dougan and Colin Murphy for their support. It’s going to be a really good night out with star performers and guaranteed laughter and it’s already attracting a lot of interest.”

The show is aimed at over-16s and tickets are available at £20 (plus booking fee) at the Ulster Hall box office: (028) 9033 4455 or http://www.ief.org.uk/events

Tim, David, Michael and Anna were photographed at Lagan College, Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school, which opened 35 years ago. [ends]

In the picture: Raising a laugh: Anna Caskey (l) and Michael Small (r) help comedian Tim McGarry and mentalist David Meade prepare for the “Stand Up for Integrated Education” show which plays at the Ulster Hall on 10 September in support of the Integrated Education Fund.

photo credit MT Hurson, Stills Photographic