Llangollen Eisteddfod aiming to pull in wider crowd

The festival, which this year runs from July 3 to 8, sees singers, musicians and dancers from across the world descend on the Welsh town for competitions, while the evenings see big names from the musical world take to the concert stage.

Rhys Davies, himself a saxophone player, says he is keen to develop links with music lovers from towns and cities across the region.

This year’s Llanfest, which brings the event to a close, will, for the first time, include a pop-up stage from Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club.

“During the week we have an exciting programme of events with something for everyone.

“Our opening concert on the Tuesday with Alfie Boe promises to be splendid, Van Morrison also visits on Friday and will enthral us all.

"Other concerts include Eisteddfod competitions and traditional presentations such as the Pendine International Voice of the Future Competition, the Peace Message, the Parade of Nations and Choir of the World.

“Supporting acts will include Calan, Red Priest and our very own musical director, Vicky Yannoula, along with Peter Jablonski doing a piano recital.

“Daytime sessions include our Eisteddfod competitions, which are international, bringing people together from around the world in the spirit of peace and friendship.

“Llanfest goes from strength to strength. This year’s offering includes the headliners Kaiser Chiefs along with the Hoosiers and Toploader, and plenty on offer on the outside stages.”

Mr Davies, who is a former GP for the town and has been visiting Eisteddfod since he was a small child, said he was looking forward to children’s day at the event on July 3.

“Our young audiences can expect a whole host of activity, from a bilingual mini musical produced in collaboration with Theatr Clwyd, to colourful workshops, international performances, a dragon puppet show, circus entertainment, tasty food, craft stalls and so much more.

“All of this is being offered at just £5 per pupil and we can’t wait to welcome as many children as possible to the International Eisteddfod.

“From being a little boy I volunteered at the festival, as a messenger, an usher and a programme seller.

“University and my job took me away from the area for some years but when I returned to live and work in Llangollen – I was senior partner at the local GP practice – I resumed my association with the Eisteddfod.

“We are keen to extend our visitor reach internationally, but also to people who live within easy driving distance of Llangollen from the North West of England, the Midlands and the rest of North Wales.”