Seven things to do this week
TODAYOne of the best-value nights out in Dublin could be Play @ The Gaiety, which from 11.45pm mixes DJ Mivian's Northern Soul beats with live music from Karaoke King, The Beat Vultures and ShamC. All these sounds plus two movies to watch on the big screen for those who are after lower-key entertainment. The Gaiety Theatre, South King Street. €14. Call 01-6771717 or see www.gaietytheatre.ie for more details.
TOMORROW"Men are but children of a larger growth," according to Dryden, so big boys (and girls) should pop along to the Toys of Yesterday event run by collectors every month. Buy, sell, swap or just chat about toys from days gone by, including trains, tinplate, lead soldiers, Dinkys, doll's houses and much more. Sandyford Community Centre, Lamb's Cross, Dublin 18, from 11am to 4pm. Free valuations and advice. Call 01-4576751.
MONDAYA man walks into a bar. He says ouch. Okay, it's terrible, but could you do any better? Open-mic night at the Wool Shed Baa & Grill, in the Parnell Centre in Dublin, gives comedy newcomers the chance to appear alongside more established acts. Come and have a go if you think you're funny enough. 9pm. www.woolshedbaa.com.
TUESDAYWaterford proves it's game for a laugh with Revolution Comedy Club, which takes place every Tuesday in the city. Starring in this weekly comedyfest tonight is Maeve Higgins, of Naked Camera and Liffey Laughs, and an array of surprise guests. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets €10/€8. Revolution, John Street, www.revolutionwaterford. com, 051-844444.
WEDNESDAYIf you want to pack out a lecture, it's a good idea to make the subject at least a teeny bit controversial. Today the archaeologist Richard Warner ponders whether the Irish are Celts, during his talk at the Ulster Museum, in Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Just so you know, he believes that we aren't, and he dismisses the Celt tag as mere "cultural labelling". Admission is free, but you'll need a ticket from the museum. 048-90383046. 1pm.
THURSDAYIt's on the Leaving Cert syllabus, so the Scottish play - Macbeth to non-thespians - was bound to make an appearance this winter. Running tonight and tomorrow at the Royal Theatre in Westport, Co Mayo, this production by Second Age Theatre Company is directed by Alan Stanford. Ghosts, hags, wicked ladies: Shakespeare's bloodiest play has it all. Tickets €17 for students, €20 for adults and €14 for group members. It's on at 1pm and 7.30pm today and 11.30am and 7.30pm tomorrow. Call 01-6798542.
FRIDAYRaise the roof of Temple Bar Music Centre, in Dublin, with the Gospel Project, who will be belting out a range of gospel and soul classics.This dynamic vocal harmony group are supported by Colette Henry and friends. Tickets €10 on the door. 8pm. www.tbmc.ie.