Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, in partnership with the festival’s creative team has launched this year’s Steinbeck Festival to a sold out audience.

The festival commenced on Friday 10th February with Mark Caruthers and Martin O'Neill OBE in conversation, on the theme of this year’s festival, ‘Journey’.

Those lucky enough to get a ticket were rewarded with an amazing night of stories and conversation, helping make this the most successful opening event of the Steinbeck Festival to date.

Martin O'Neill gave a fantastic account of his own life, from playing football for Nottingham Forest, to his relationship with his teammates and reflections on what football means to him from both a player and managerial perspective, as he came up through the ranks of various football clubs.

On the night, Mark Carruthers skilfully guided Martin as here recounted his journey so far through to conclusion and it was clear that he loved every minute of his football and managerial career in all the clubs he was connected with.

After the event, Martin and Mark spent time meeting and greeting the audience including many football fans who were thrilled to attend the event and enjoyed meeting the sporting legend himself.

The Steinbeck Festival continues at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre right through until 25th March, with the promise of many more great events including:

Understanding Steinbeck on Saturday 18th February, 12noon – 4:30pm. This event includes an introduction to Steinbeck’s work through talks, music by Matt McGinn, spoken word and a live link up to the Steinbeck Centre, California for a tour. Tickets are priced at £6.00

Mirenda Rosenberg on Friday 24th February at 8pm; bringing an evening of soul, funk, jazz and blues music to Limavady and tickets selling fast, so early booking is encouraged, tickets are priced at £13.50

The launch of the Steinbeck Festival Dustbowl Photography Exhibition will take place on Saturday 25th February at 12 noon, admission is free and everyone is welcome. The exhibition will stay in the galleries until 25th March.

Journey with Tenx9 on Thursday 23rd February, is fully booked however there is a waiting list for cancelations

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.roevalleyarts.com or call the Box Office on 028 7776 0650.