A creative digital agency has developed a new mobile technology tool for one of Belfast's oldest theatres in a major step for the arts in Northern Ireland.

Origin Partners in Holywood, Co Down, said it had has custom-developed the new iPhone application for the 114-year-old Grand Opera House.

iPhone users will be able to download the application free of charge from the Apple App Store, giving them information on performances, schedule information, details of shows, pictures and video clips.

Jerry Staple, operations director of Origin Partners, said the iPhone app was a "fantastic" example of using mobile technology to interact with audiences. "It's a ground-breaking step forward for the arts in Northern Ireland.''

Mr Staple said iPhone apps are becoming more important as a tool of communication.

He said: "Accessing information on the go is increasingly important to consumers and businesses must respond to this demand. Although many companies can feel intimidated in moving away from traditional marketing strategies to include digital solutions, investing in mobile, email, web, ecommerce or touchscreen technologies is often much more cost effective than other mediums."

Paul Coleman, new media marketing officer for the Grand Opera House, said: "The application is an excellent way for us to add to the range of methods we use to communicate with our audience."