IS the unveiling of Belfast's new Waterfront Hall a case of one good opening deserving another? In January, a gala premiere concert by the Ulster Orchestra, James Galway and Barry Douglas launched this magnificent venue on its way. But on May 6th, writes Jane Coyle, The Waterfront will host another opening concert, this time with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa in the starring role, supported by mezzo soprano Anne Howells, tenor Dennis O'Neill, baritone Gregory Yurisich and Belfast mezzo soprano Kate McCarney.

During the five weeks that it has been open, indications are that the Waterfront has succeeded in attracting new audiences of first time ballet and concertgoers. Over 60,000 tickets have been sold, with sales totalling around £1 million. While the first batch of research figures are not yet in, says Andrew Kyle, the hall's Sales and Marketing Manager, he is confident that we have already extended the marketplace. I say this not only because our own figures have been so high, but because the word I am getting from other major venues around the city is that their audiences have not fallen accordingly." With three shows sold out before the new spring season programme was printed, the honeymoon period is by no means over.