Famous faces star in Newtownabbey Christmas hit

Lynda Bryans showcasing her vocal talents in the recording studio.

The local celebrities have teamed up with members of Newtownabbey Arts and Cultural Network (NACN) to record ‘Santa Claus is coming to town.’

The song, which will be released later this month, features the lyrics: “He see’s you when you’re sleeping! He knows when you’re awake! He knows if you’ve been washing your hands, so scrub them twice for goodness sake!”

This song is by the NACN Coole Studios Young Artists and will most certainly lift the Christmas spirits.

Bernie from ‘Belfast Girls’ in Rathcoole.

With Tim McGarry having been spotted hovering around the Diamond and Bernie from ‘Belfast Girls’ causing chaos in the EuroSpar, the cat is officially out of the bag. Well almost.

Newtownabbey Times caught up with the project’s manager, David Crooks - who holding his cards close to his chest, said: “With a little help from our A-list friends and our singing academy, NACN Coole Studios have set out to raise Newtownabbey spirits whilst simultaneously driving home the nation’s plea.

“Like most gifts this one is under wraps until Christmas week, but I really hope the people of Rathcoole and beyond enjoy watching this video as much as we did making it.”

He continued: “We are especially grateful to all of our contributors who have taken the time to come down here and support the work we do with the young people of this estate and the wider Newtownabbey area.

“It’s been a tough year for the creative arts industry with almost everything brought to a standstill. We remain determined however, whilst Covid-19 has shut our theatres, halted live performances and scuppered our plans, it can’t and won’t finish the arts when it’s so loud in our hearts.”

NACN are very keen to attract new members, but stress the group is not an open door group.

David added: “We seek young people that have a singing or playing talent. They need to send a video showcasing themselves to the NACN messenger or email [email protected]

“After selection we will then ask them to come in for an audition, followed by an interview.

“We run a strict group and this can be seen in the way the young people promote themselves and the level of productions they create.

“Youth empowerment is vital and we aim to see each member run their own projects.”

For more information about the Newtownabbey Arts and Cultural Network, check out the NACN Coole Studios Facebook page.

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