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Archives for July 2010

Tackling nerves and talking Bingo

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Jason Mohammad Jason Mohammad | 20:20 UK time, Saturday, 31 July 2010

Tea bar found. Shoes shaken. And to be honest, for the first time in years of working in TV, I was shaking when I tackled my first piece to camera in Welsh this afternoon.

A crowd had gathered on the Maes to see me deliver my crafted opening piece to camera for tonight's show. I'd learnt my lines. It was flowing when I was on my way to meet the crew. I had to get it right just for the crowd of mums, dads, grans and kids that had recognised me from Scrum V and Sport Wales. I heard one lovely lady say: "Oh there he is - my favourite boy on the telly!"

I would love to be sat here and report that it was a 'one take wonder', but sadly it was more like take nine or 10. Still, we got there. Cue a photo session with the mums and grans and a few autographs for younger fans.

I spent the afternoon talking to people in the learners' tent, Maes D, so I haven't had much time to see the competitions. But I can hear what's happening. And as ever, it's a pleasure to talk to my colleague and friend Roy Noble who had the very tough job of calling Bingo numbers this afternoon! We had a great laugh about it and, in 12 years of knowing and working with Roy, it was the first time we'd ever spoken Welsh to each other.

I had a wonderful first day at the Eisteddfod. I'm tired, but the people of Ebbw Vale have made me feel very welcome and I've spoken more Welsh in a day that I have done in the past month. See you tomorrow!

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First live interview in Welsh

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Jason Mohammad Jason Mohammad | 18:56 UK time, Saturday, 31 July 2010

Alarm at 6.30am. Quick flick through the Eisteddfod programme over a bowl of porridge and paned o de only to find out that my Radio Wales colleague, Roy Noble, is doing Bingo on the Maes at 5pm! Got to see that. Anyway, seeing as I'm doing a live broadcast for S4C at the opening of Maes y Dysgwyr at 11am, I'll make sure I get my name down.

I'm sleeping at home in Cardiff for the week of the Eisteddfod, which will be rather strange as in previous years I've always stayed at hotels near the Maes and really enjoyed the company of the producers, directors, vision mixers, sound guys (you know, all the ones that I depend on on a daily basis) but I'm combining my work at the Eisteddfod with my daily show on Â鶹Éç Radio Wales this year.

I had to tiptoe around the house this morning as the whole of my family were enjoying a Saturday morning lie-in after my nephew's second birthday party last evening. Although, my six-year-old, Lili, did give me a pob lwc kiss before she went to bed. Bless.

There was a terrific atmosphere among the Â鶹Éç Cymru crew in the office - even though it is so early. I was a bit nervous to be honest - after all, this is my first experience of this event and working entirely in Welsh.

After arriving at 8.30am, there was time for a quick change into a new shirt and straight into a chat with Sara, Morgan and Mari (the presenting team that I've just met) on TV! I'm working with Rhun ap Iorwerth most days, presenting some items on the highlights programme. So much to look forward to and so much to see.

Old friends are all over the Maes and as well as a all the competitions, it's a chance to meet up with people I haven't seen for some time.

I've just met Dai Williams, one of the finalists of the Welsh Learner of the Year - an amazing story. We've just filmed the interview with him for tonight's show. I would tell you all about him and his love of the language, but I want you to watch the programme on S4C tonight at 8.25pm - so there!

From Dai it's a rush to get to the opening of Maes D. But off I go in search of another TV crew and this time it's live! My first ever live TV interview in Welsh and off we go. Huw Llywelyn Davies hands to me and it's a "Diolch yn fawr iawn Huw..." and I'm into it.

It's a big thrill and a huge honour and a privilege to be broadcasting in Welsh from the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol 2010 for Â鶹Éç Cymru. I have a three-minute chat with Jo, who's spent a year planning all the events on Maes D, as the Dragon Choir sings Calon Lân in the background. Wonderful!

Oh, and by the way, the wellies are here - but no need. It's boat shoes all the way for me - although they are full of those annoying little stones. Now, where's the Â鶹Éç tea bar? I need caffeine, it's going to be a long week!

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Mohammad and the Maes

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Jason Mohammad Jason Mohammad | 08:00 UK time, Saturday, 31 July 2010

Usually, I'm counting down the days to the new football season at this time of the year, but it's not the footy this time, it's the 2010 National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale!

I'm extremely proud to say that for the first time I'll be broadcasting in Welsh from the Maes. I've done many interviews over the past fortnight for newspapers in English and Welsh about my role for Â鶹Éç Cymru Wales this year and people still seem generally surprised when they discover that I speak Welsh.

I learnt the language over a period of 11 years - studying it at GCSE level with my inspirational teacher at Glyn Derw High School in Ely, Valmai Griffiths.

I then studied A Level Welsh at and did my degree in Welsh and Politics at the University of Wales, Swansea, graduating in 1996.

During those years I developed a passion for the language, its origin, history, institutions and of course, the literature of Wales. Now, some years later, I'm preparing to broadcast in Welsh on television for the first time from the Eisteddfod, so it's a big moment for me.

Obviously, many people associate me with my time on Wales Today, broadcasting in English but over the past 18 months I've had many requests to work in the Welsh language.

Last year I presented a programme for , where I travelled on a spiritual journey to Mecca and the response I had from the people who watched the programme was simply phenomenal. But the overriding response was one of surprise - that I actually spoke Welsh.

My children go to a Welsh speaking school and I use the language more now than ever before, even though I present the daily Radio Wales Phone-In and still do most of my work in English.

So this year I'm really looking forward to the Eisteddfod. I think it's vitally important for it to visit places like Ebbw Vale.

It's always a big thrill for me to visit the Royal Welsh Show or the Eisteddfod representing Â鶹Éç Cymru Wales and I look forward to meeting our viewers, listeners and of course, the many competitors that I'll be will no doubt have the pleasure of interviewing.

I'll be keeping you right up to date with the whole experience through 'the eyes of Jason' via this blog so come and say hello. I'm here from 8.30am on Saturday.

For now though, I've got to browse through my Eisteddfod programme to find out what's going to be my first item?! And of course, pack my wellies.

No... stay positive, the sun always shines on the Eisteddfod, doesn't it?!

Jason

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Comedian Elis James speaks to Â鶹Éç Radio 1's Nick Grimshaw

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:35 UK time, Friday, 30 July 2010

Or rather, he did earlier this week, but fear not as the show is available for the next five days on Â鶹Éç iPlayer.

Elis James is a rising star on the Welsh comedy front. He's set to take his show Daytripper to the next week, having performed his debut show - The Most Cautious Little Boy In Wales - at the festival in 2009.

Welsh comedian Elis James with Radio 1's Nick Grimshaw

Welsh comedian Elis James with Radio 1's Nick Grimshaw

On Tuesday's show he joined Nick after a stand-up gig, which by his own admission went badly. Listen to the Nick Grimshaw show now on Â鶹Éç iPlayer.

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Six Bells Miners' Memorial completed

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:55 UK time, Friday, 30 July 2010

Guardian, the new memorial to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Six Bells mining disaster, has now been completed.

On 28 June 1960 a coal and gas explosion tore through the Six Bells colliery killing 45 miners. Welsh-based sculptor Sebastien Boyesen was commissioned to build a new memorial to honour the victims of the colliery disaster to coincide with the anniversary.

The 20m high statue now includes its arms, which were missing when the landmark was unveiled on the anniversary during a remembrance ceremony.

The completed Six Bells Miners' Memorial - Guardian - by Sebastien Boyesen

The completed Six Bells Miners' Memorial - Guardian - by Sebastien Boyesen

Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and secured the £200,000 funding needed for the statue, which is a 12.6m high miner constructed of slices of corten steel standing on a 7.4m high sandstone face plinth.

The name, age and occupation of each of the 45 victims has been laser cut into the corten steel band that surrounds the plinth.

Read more on the story on the and find out more about renowned sculptor Boyesen on Â鶹Éç Wales Arts.

While you're there, browse a gallery of photos of the memorial at different stages during its construction and watch a video clip of timelapse footage of the statue's assembly.

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Throw away your bed socks at the Dylan Thomas Centre

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:32 UK time, Friday, 30 July 2010

Adrian Metcalfe as Mog Edwards

The programme of summer lunchtime theatre continues at the Dylan Thomas Centre this weekend with Throw Away Your Bed Socks.

Actor Adrian Metcalfe uses Dylan Thomas' poems as a base to ask who is the best interpreter of poetry - the poet or the reader? Should poetry be read or heard?

Metcalfe, most recently seen as Daniel Jones in the acclaimed Warmley (a production on the friendship between poet Thomas and composer Jones), asks the question: is it better to be Mog Edwards than Eli Jenkins?

Contact the for further details and ticket information.

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Turner and Penry Williams exhibition at Cyfarthfa Castle

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:36 UK time, Thursday, 29 July 2010

Works by JMW Turner and Penry Williams are to go on show at as part of the castle's centenary celebrations.

Welshman Penry Williams is arguably one of the best painters to have come from Merthyr Tydfil. Born in 1802 and the son of a house decorator, Williams used to work for his father decorating the homes of wealthy ironmasters.

On one particular job for the Crawshay family, Williams was caught sketching on one of the house's window shutters. The owner, William Crawshay II, saw his huge artistic potential despite his deviant act and paid for him to attend the Royal Academy in London. He graduated from the Academy in 1824, with critics at the time proclaiming him as good an artist as Turner.

Penry Williams' painting of Cyfarthfa Rolling Mill At Night

Penry Williams' painting of Cyfarthfa Rolling Mill At Night

Turner himself is one of Britain's most celebrated artists and is perhaps the most famous English Romantic landscape artist. Earlier this month his watercolour sketch of Flint Castle sold for £541,250 at auction.

The exhibition will feature 20 Penry Williams pictures from Cyfarthfa Museum's own collection, including his masterpiece Procession to the Christening, plus one Williams painting that's on loan from the .

These will be exhibited alongside 10 paintings on loan from the in London that cover all stages of Turner's career, including two sketches from the artist's time passing through Merthyr Tydfil in the 18th century.

Heritage Minister, Alun Ffred Jones said: "I am delighted that this exhibition is opening in Merthyr Tydfil. Turner is one of the world's greatest painters and visited Wales on a number of occasions.

"This exhibition will be a fantastic opportunity for people in the Valleys, and indeed across Wales, to see some of his beautiful works, including some of Merthyr itself. At the same time it will be interesting to compare them with the work by one of Wales' greatest painters, Penry Williams."

A River Seen From A Hill by Joseph William Mallard Turner

A River Seen From A Hill by Joseph William Mallard Turner

This one-off exhibition will run from 1-31 August in Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery's wedding room.

The gallery is also set to give daily 15 minute talks every weekday throughout August, as well as weekly watercolour classes and a family colouring workshops course. Contact the for further information.

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Highlights of the Eisteddfod Week

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Dan Williams Dan Williams | 09:40 UK time, Thursday, 29 July 2010

With the Eisteddfod only a few days away and so many things happening on the field during the week, I thought a 'highlights' blog might help you plan your week and sample all aspects of the festival. For some extra info take a look at our 'Eisteddfod essentials' on our Eisteddfod site.

The Field

The National Eisteddfod Pavilion on the site in Ebbw Vale

With more than 200 stalls over the field ranging from university stalls, charities, organisations and various shops selling goods from t-shirts to jewellery there's a lot to see. You can also pick up the occasional free biro.

The Pavilion - The big pink Pavilion tent is where all the main events take place during the Eisteddfod, from solos to choirs, evening concerts to the ceremonies. This really is the heart of the Eisteddfod.

Theatre Y Maes (The Theatre) - This is the home for many plays and productions from around Wales throughout the week.

Y Lle Celf (Art Space) - As the site this year is on an old steelworks the organisers have integrated parts of the old site into the Eisteddfod. The unique example is the site for the visual arts gallery which is in the basement of the old steelworks. Read more on its transformation in Laura Chamberlain's blog post.

Top tip for the week - Towards the end of the week the male voice choirs' competitions are held in the Pavilion. This sparks a great moment in the food courts towards the end of the afternoon (normally when everyone is sheltering from the rain) when the choirs burst into song. It is quite a magical moment that can only be captured at the Eisteddfod.

Main Ceremonies

New Archdruid - The newly appointed Jim Parc Nest (T. James Jones) has taken over the Archdruid duties from the late Dic yr Hendre. T. James Jones won the Crown twice in 1986 and 1988, as well as the Chair in 2007. Last year Selwyn Iolen stood in for Dic yr Hendre during his illness.

Crowning - The first ceremony of the week is the Crowning of the Bard on Monday. The Crown is awarded to the winning poem of up to 200 lines not in strict verse. This year's Crown was designed by Suzie Horan, the winner of the Craft and Design gold medal in the 2008 National Eisteddfod in Cardiff. One of the adjudicators, Iwan Llwyd, died in May this year. He was crowned himself in the Rhymney Eisteddfod of 1990. It will be interesting to hear on Monday whether Iwan had cast his adjudication on the pieces before his death.

Prose Medal - While the Eisteddfod is in full swing by now, the main ceremony on Wednesday is the Prose Medal Ceremony. This is awarded for a volume of work this year on the theme of 'Regeneration'.

The Chair - Arguably the highlight of the week when it comes to the ceremonies. After last year's disappointment where no one was awarded the chair (it was left empty as there was no worthy winner according to the adjudicators), let's hope someone takes the coveted prize on Friday afternoon. This year's chair was donated by Glamorgan University. Read more about it on one of my previous posts.

Take a look at last year's chair ceremony highlights where the chair was controversially left empty:

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If you don't get chance to go to the Eisteddfod, you can catch all the action on our Eisteddfod website where we'll be streaming the ceremonies and competitions during the week. Just go to bbc.co.uk/wales/eisteddfod/2010.

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Ruth Jones stars in The Great Outdoors

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 15:10 UK time, Wednesday, 28 July 2010

Ruth Jones stars in new comedy The Great Outdoors on Â鶹Éç Four, which follows the hikes, heartaches, friendships and rivalries of a misfit rambling club.

The cast of new Â鶹Éç Four comedy The Great Outdoors: Stephen Wight, Katherine Parkinson, Ruth Jones, Mark Heap, Gwyneth Keyworth, Steve Edge and Joe Tracini

The Great Outdoors cast, from left to right: Stephen Wight, Katherine Parkinson, Ruth Jones, Mark Heap, Gwyneth Keyworth, Steve Edge and Joe Tracini

The comedy also features comedian Mark Heap as rambling club organiser Bob. In the first episode, which goes out tonight (Wednesday 28 July), Bob begins a titanic battle of wills with the newest member Christine - played by Welsh star Jones - for the heart and soul of his treasured walking group.

Bob's teenage daughter Hazel is mortified at the arrival of geeky Victor from her school and married businesswoman Sophie is looking for a way out from her freeloading husband Joe.

The programme is part of The Call Of The Wild on Â鶹Éç Four, a celebration of the great British love affair with the countryside - whatever the weather.

Watch the first episode on Â鶹Éç Four at 9pm tonight, and subsequently on Â鶹Éç iPlayer.

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Unveiling of The Crown

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Dan Williams Dan Williams | 13:02 UK time, Wednesday, 28 July 2010

2010 National Eisteddfod Crown

With only a few days until the opening ceremony of the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale, the Crown was presented to the festival's local executive committee at a special event on the Eisteddfod Maes on Monday night.

According to the designer Suzie Horan, this year's design was inspired by the three things: steel, coal and the changes faced by the Blaenau Gwent area over the years. The processes the crown reflect the industries where the materials were once produced. This included a small steel rolling mill and traditional press to manipulate strips and sheets of silver.

Suzie herself won the Gold Medal for Design and Craft in the Cardiff National Eisteddfod in 2008.

Stay tuned all next week where we'll be doing a live blog from the crown, prose medal and chair ceremonies from the Pavilion.

Joan Baker retrospective at the National Library of Wales

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:35 UK time, Wednesday, 28 July 2010

A retrospective exhibition spanning Joan Baker's 65 year artistic career is currently on show at in Aberystwyth.

This exhibition was created and toured by the in order to mark the recent awarding of fully accredited museum status to the Art Collection Museum at the university.

Joan Baker's painting Coastal Path, Ogmore

Joan Baker's painting Coastal Path, Ogmore - courtesy the artist and The National Library of Wales

Joan Baker was born in Cardiff in 1922. She went to Howells School for Girls in Llandaff and from September 1939 to 1944 she studied painting, followed by art teacher training, at the Cardiff College of Art.

Between 1945 and 1983 Baker taught at the college, on the Intermediate and Preliminary Courses and on the Foundation Studies in Art and Design Course. She retired in 1983.

Photograph of Joan Baker's painting Blue Pool

Photograph of Joan Baker's painting Blue Pool - courtesy the artist and The National Library of Wales

Baker exhibited extensively in Wales from 1948 to 1962, and had her first solo exhibition - Joan Baker: A Chosen Way - at Cardiff College of Art's Howard Gardens Gallery in 1984. She has continued to paint the coast, gardens, parks, woods and hills of Glamorgan ever since.

Joan Baker: A Retrospective runs at until 11 September 2010.

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Zombies wanted for horror film on Anglesey

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:30 UK time, Tuesday, 27 July 2010

The director of a new zombie movie being filmed on Anglesey has issued a call for extras to spend a day 'acting like wild animals'.

Zombies From Ireland is a low budget horror film - and is the brainchild of musician and director Ryan Kift, and co-writer Sian Davies.

Photo taken during filming of Zombies From Ireland

Filming Zombies From Ireland

Several local actors are involved with the project, and a familiar face from north Wales, Big Brother's Glyn Wise, will feature in the film. Another Big Brother housemate, Marcus Akin, is also confirmed to star.

Kift requires the (unpaid) talents of extras to film the final scenes of the film, in which the zombies attempt to cross the bridge from Anglesey.

Ryan Kift with cast members of Zombies From Ireland

Ryan Kift with cast members of Zombies From Ireland

If you're interested in taking part, contact Ryan Kift via his or via email.

St Dogmaels Gallery summer show

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 12:05 UK time, Tuesday, 27 July 2010

An exhibition featuring some of the best contemporary art in Wales has gone on display at the summer show.

The summer exhibition at the gallery in Cardigan showcases painting, photography, sculpture and film, and features work by artists such as Dan Backhouse, Elizabeth Haines, Caroline Hartley, Gina Hughes, Helen Gillam, Sian Jones, Tricia McParlin, Peter Taylor-Wood, Steve Thompson, Susan Sands, Jessica Woodrow and Geoff Yeomans.

Image showing the works of artists exhibiting at the St Dogmaels Gallery Summer Show

Works of some of the artists exhibiting at the St Dogmaels Gallery summer show

Film on show features works by Penny Jones, Ruth Jones, Sinclair Stammers, Jacob Whittaker and Simon Whitehead.

Many of the artists that are exhibiting were selected from the successful held in early July this year.

The summer show at St Dogmaels Gallery runs from 24 July to early September, with an open evening set for 5 August that will feature Morag Henderson and Marjory McKay.

Performance art events are also planned later that month, with an evening of mask and music on Friday 27 August while on Saturday 28 August art tour guides Maggie Nicols and Claire Turner will accompany gallery visitors on a journey of discovery of the works in the exhibition.

Visit the for more details.

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Photomarathon UK winners revealed

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:52 UK time, Monday, 26 July 2010

The winner of the competition was unveiled on Friday evening, following the photographic event that took place in Cardiff on Saturday 12 June.

From over 400 participants, Nigel Leach from Gileston near Barry has been crowned this year's competition winner, in which snap-happy entrants have to capture just 12 images of 12 given topics, over 12 hours.

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic one photo: My Entry Number

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic one photo: My Entry Number

This year was the competition's first using the format of digital photography, rather than film. The event was a sell out, with people from right across the UK descending on the Wales Millennium Centre, which was the headquarters for the day.

Hollie Withers from Cardiff claimed the Photomarathon UK second prize, with David Manton from Penarth picking up the third prize. Keeping it in the family, his son - Daniel Manton, also from Penarth - was this year's junior winner.

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic two photo: Aroma

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic two photo: Aroma

Winner Nigel Leach commented: "I found the day itself really exhausting, really difficult, much more difficult than I thought it was going to be but I'm ecstatic about winning and it's totally unexpected.

"I look around and there's so many fantastic photographs, I actually prefer the second place pictures more than mine, I'm just over the moon. I didn't have a camera of my own before and now I've won one, which is brilliant."

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic five photo: Up In The Air

Nigel Leach's Photomarathon topic five photo: Up In The Air

Mathew Talfan, Photomarathon Director and judge said: 'Trying to pick winners is a very, very difficult task, but the judges spent two days viewing the images and we're really pleased with this year's selections. All the winners - each in their own way - has captured the spirit of the competition."

The first UK Photomarathon was held in Cardiff in the summer of 2004 when 140 people took up the challenge and the number of participants has continued to grow over the years.

The results of this year's test of creativity are now on display to the general public, with every single image taken on the day - that's over 4,800 images - being exhibited at Cardiff Old Library on The Hayes until 7 August.

For more information, visit the .

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Howard Winstone film Risen world première in Wales

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:55 UK time, Friday, 23 July 2010

A new film about the life and career of legendary Welsh boxer Howard Winstone is set to have its world première in Cardiff as part of a three-day boxing festival.

Stuart Brennan as Howard Winstone in Risen © Burn Hand Films

Risen is directed by and written by Neil Jones. He co-wrote the film with Stuart Brennan, who stars as boxer Winstone in the film.

A host of boxing personalities also appear in the film, including Enzo Maccarinelli, Steve Robinson, Erik Morales, Tim Witherspoon, Leon Spinks, John H Stracey, Richie Woodhall, Glenn Catley and Robin Reid.

The film also stars John Noble as Eddie Thomas, Shane Ritchie as Mike Barrett, Gary Dourdan as Sugar Ray Robinson and Grainne Joughin as Benita Winstone - Winstone's wife.

Howard Winstone was born in Merthyr Tydfil in April 1939. During his days as an amateur boxer he lost the tips of three fingers on his right hand in an accident at work in a toy factory.

The accident made Winstone reassess his fighting style, as he'd lost most of the punching power in his right hand.

Having won 83 of his 86 amateur fights (the highlight of which was the gold medal he clinched at the Empire Games in Cardiff in 1958) he turned professional in 1960.

Just two years later he won the British Featherweight title, and became the Featherweight Champion of the World at the age of 29 in 1968. He retired just six months later, after losing the crown to Jose Legra. He received an MBE in 1968, and died in 2000 at the age of 61.

In 2006 a short film of the Howard Winstone story - The Fifteenth, by the same producers of Risen, Burn Hand Films - screened at the Cannes Film Festival. In the summer of 2006 plans were put in place to begin the feature film.

Stuart Brennan (Howard Winstone) in Risen © BurnHand Films

Images courtesy of BurnHand Films

Filming took place in Wales and across the UK over a five-week period in the summer of 2006. Following a two year break, the project resumed in September 2008, during which editing also began, and the final instalment was filmed in April 2010.

Risen will première on 29 July at the World Boxing Council Night of Champions event, which will take place over three days from 29-31 July at the Cardiff International Arena.

Additional information



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Daniel Evans is Eisteddfod's Honorary President

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:35 UK time, Friday, 23 July 2010

Welsh star of stage and screen Daniel Evans will act as this year's Honorary President at the .

Evans trained at London's Guildhall School of Music and has worked for the Royal Shakespeare Company and British National Theatre. He has won two prestigious Olivier Awards for his roles in Merrily We Roll Along and Sunday In The Park With George.

The successful actor is currently the artistic director of , which takes in The Crucible, The Lyceum, and the Studio Theatre.

Daniel Evans

Evans follows in the footsteps of some of Wales' greatest names in acting as the Eisteddfod's president, with recent post holders including former First Minister Rhodri Morgan, Lord Gwilym Prys-Davies, Professor Prys Morgan, Guto Harri and Dafydd Wigley.

In Eisteddfod history a different president was honoured each day, but in recent years there has been one sole president for the whole week. David Lloyd George was the Day President for the Thursday for many years and other notable politicians, including Gladstone, also enjoyed the accolade.

Evans is also set to act as one of the adjudicators for this year's Richard Burton Prize, having won the award himself in its inaugural year 20 years ago in 1990, aged just 17. He will give his president's speech at the Eisteddfod on Wednesday 4 August.

Read the latest news on the 2010 National Eisteddfod on the Â鶹Éç Eisteddfod website.

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Catherine Zeta Jones to visit Cardiff hospital

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:25 UK time, Friday, 23 July 2010

Welsh Hollywood icon Catherine Zeta Jones and her husband Michael Douglas will today visit the Children's Hospital for Wales to boost its fundraising campaign.

Zeta Jones, who is a patron of the , set up to raise funds for the hospital, officially opened the children's hospital in 2006. The couple's visit coincides with the 10th anniversary of the original Noah's Ark Appeal, and they are expected to take a tour of the hospital's facilities.

Read the story in full on the Â鶹Éç Wales News website.

Longlist announced for Dylan Thomas Prize

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 16:45 UK time, Thursday, 22 July 2010

The 16 young writers longlisted for the £30,000 University of Wales Dylan Thomas Prize were announced yesterday.

For the first time in the prize's history a playwright has been included on the longlist, with the writers hailing from Canada, New Zealand, the USA, South Africa and Somalia, along with five longlisted authors from the UK - but none from Wales.

Judges on this year's panel include Kate Burton - actress and daughter of Richard Burton - and the Gwyneth Lewis, the first National Poet of Wales. Peter Florence, the founder of the Hay Literature, will chair the judging panel.

The prize honours the work of Swansea-born poet Dylan Thomas, who died in New York in 1953, and is open to any published writer in English who is under 30. The shortlist for the prize will be announced in early September, with the prize-winner to be announced at an awards ceremony in Swansea on 1 December.

Read more on the story on Â鶹Éç Wales News online and visit the for further details.

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Y Lle Celf goes underground for 2010 Eisteddfod

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:25 UK time, Thursday, 22 July 2010

The art gallery space at this year's will celebrate the industrial heritage of Wales by using a unique space to showcase visual arts.

In one of the Eisteddfod's most ambitious projects to date, this year's Y Lle Celf (art space) will be housed in the basement on the site of the disused steelworks in Ebbw Vale. The basement, or bunker, was one of the underground buildings that used to hold the heavy steel rolling machines at the steelworks site.

Photograph of the stack annealer basement in February 2010

The stack annealer basement, set to be the home of Y Lle Celf, in February 2010

The underground bunker is set to become Wales' National art gallery for a week as the Eisteddfod starts on Saturday 31 July. As you can see from these photographs, it has undergone a fantastic transformation - and it must have taken huge leap of both faith and imagination to envisage this exciting arts space.

The building itself will play an important role in this year's Y Lle Celf, as the industrial past of Blaenau Gwent and the Heads of the Valleys is reflected in using this wholly industrial space as a gallery for Welsh art.

The basement pictured in May 2010, having been drained of water

The basement pictured in May 2010, having been drained of water

Robyn Tomos, the National Eisteddfod's Visual Arts Officer, said: "I've never felt such excitement around Y Lle Celf before. This year's exhibition has inspired so many artists, and the opportunity to exhibit in such an amazing space has appealed to those working in so many different mediums.

"I very much hope that people will flock to Y Lle Celf on this year's Maes. The combination of the great art and the unusual atmosphere is sure to appeal to everyone who enjoys Y Lle Celf."

Photograph taken in July 2010 of the progress on the Basement Art Gallery for Y Lle Celf

How the Basement Art Gallery for Y Lle Celf was shaping up last week

Y Lle Celf is a partnership project between the National Eisteddfod and the . The gallery will feature a large multimedia exhibition that will include both fine and applied art (including the moving image and performance art).

Additional information

Eisteddfod on Â鶹Éç Wales

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Rumoured film about Burton and Taylor romance

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:45 UK time, Thursday, 22 July 2010

The romance between two of Hollywood's brightest ever stars Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor still captivates the hearts of romantics to this day.

As Kevin Leonard reports on the Â鶹Éç Wales News website today, rumours are afoot that a film could be made on their turbulent relationship based on a book by Sam Kashner and Nancy Schoenberger - Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century.

Richard Burton

The book has been published following Taylor's release of her love letters from the Welsh actor from Pontrhydyfen.

Read the full story on Â鶹Éç Wales News online and browse our Richard Burton content on the Â鶹Éç Wales Arts website.

Richard Burton biography

Top 10 Welsh performances: Richard Burton in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)

Top 10 Welsh actors article on Burton

Watch our Richard Burton clip collection

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National Youth Arts Wales programme of events

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:35 UK time, Wednesday, 21 July 2010

celebrates its 10th anniversary year in 2010 and has an extensive programme of dance, theatre and music events planned for the summer and autumn.

Over 400 talented Welsh youngsters will perform in venues right across Wales, in addition to shows planned in Malvern and Manchester, giving the best part of their summer holidays over to rehearsals and performances.

National Youth Jazz Wales © Sean Malyon

Members of National Youth Jazz Wales © Sean Malyon

National Youth Jazz Wales kicked off the proceedings with the first of their two July concerts yesterday night around the National Trust's Stackpole Centre in Pembrokeshire.

They will perform again, under music director Percy Pursglove, tonight at the Welsh Proms at St David's Hall Cardiff, with a programme centred on Duke Ellington's celebrated re-writing of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite.

Photograph of National Youth Choir of Wales members © Sean Malyon

National Youth Choir of Wales members © Sean Malyon

Under the guidance of musical director Ralph Allwood, the National Youth Choir of Wales will perform a programme of sacred and secular works ranging from Samuel Barber's Agnus Dei, Hubert Parry's Blest Pair of Sirens and two new works by Welsh composer Paul Mealor.

The choir is set to perform at Malvern College Chapel on 21 July, St Mary's Church in Chepstow on 22 July, and Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff on 23 July. It will also sing at St Mary's Church in Swansea as part of the later in the year, on 17 October.

The National Youth Brass Band of Wales are to perform two concerts next week. Professor Edward Gregson will conduct his pieces Variations on Laudate Dominum and An Age of Kings in addition to Arutiunian's trumpet concerto, featuring Gareth Small as soloist, and a newly-commissioned work by Welsh composer Mervyn Burtch.

Photograph of members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales © Sean Malyon

Members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales © Sean Malyon

The band will perform at the Aberystwyth Arts Centre on 26 July and Brangwyn Hall in Swansea, as part of the Gower Festival, on 27 July.

Choreographer Errol White has produced a new edgy, expressive and engaging piece for the National Youth Dance Wales using his trade-mark qualities of precision, power and strength.

The group will perform the dynamic ensemble-piece at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon on 30 July. This is their only date, so don't miss out.

Members of the National Youth Theatre of Wales will be rehearsing throughout August for the September run of production No Other Day Like Today.

Production photo taken from the National Youth Theatre of Wales' No Other Day Like Today © Sean Malyon

Production photo from No Other Day Like Today © Sean Malyon

Developed by NYTW Young Writers with Manon Eames, and under artistic director Tim Baker, this engaging piece of theatre tells the story of life in a not-so-ordinary Welsh town through music and movement, singing and story-telling.

The production will run from 3-10 September across three venues: Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and The Riverfront in Newport.

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales will help to celebrate the final year of Owain Arwel Hughes post as Principal Director with five concert dates throughout August and September. This includes the final concert of the and the opening concert of the .

National Youth Orchestra of Wales © Sean Malyon

Members of National Youth Orchestra of Wales © Sean Malyon

They will also perform for the first time at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, on 19 September. The orchestra, which has 33 new members for 2010, will perform a new commission by Welsh composer Brian Hughes in addition to La Mer by Debussy and Rachmaninov's Symphony No. 2.

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Lunchtime theatre at the Dylan Thomas Centre

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 13:40 UK time, Tuesday, 20 July 2010

in Swansea launches its summer programme of lunchtime theatre this weekend.

will present their production One State of Happiness on Saturday 24 July. The title of the production is a quotation from Dylan Thomas, of how he described living in the Boat House in Laugharne.

Fluellen look at some of the happiest years of the poet's life through the words of his family, his friends and the poet himself.

Dylan Thomas

Dylan Thomas Centre literature officer Jo Furber said: "We're delighted to begin this season of Saturday Lunchtime Theatre performances with this wonderful piece from Fluellen Theatre Company.

"The Lunchtime Theatre performances offer something to local people and visitors alike, and you're guaranteed a great hour's entertainment from Fluellen."

Visit the website and for further details.

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Five Welsh theatres placed on at-risk register

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 13:30 UK time, Tuesday, 20 July 2010

Theatre preservation group has included five Welsh buildings in its annual Theatre Buildings at Risk Register.

According to the Trust's Theatres Database, there are approximately 2,000 extant theatre buildings in the UK, though not all are in use. In 2010, 55 of these buildings are on the Theatre Buildings at Risk Register - 43 of which are in England, seven in Scotland and five in Wales.

Theatr Elli, Llanelli © The Theatres Trust Image Library

Theatr Elli, Llanelli © The Theatres Trust Image Library

Welsh buildings on the register include the Palace Theatre in Swansea, built in 1888, and the art deco Theatr Elli in Llanelli - both of which are both Grade II listed buildings. The Adelina Patti Theatre at Craig Y Nos Castle, Powys is also a listed building (Grade I).

Photograph of the inside of Adelina Patti Theatre, Craig Y Nos Castle © The Theatres Trust Image Library

Inside of Adelina Patti Theatre, Craig Y Nos Castle © The Theatres Trust Image Library

The two other buildings that have been placed on the register are the Town Hall in Pontypridd and Theatre Royal in Barry.

Read more on the Â鶹Éç Wales News website and get more information on site.

Gŵyl Arall (Another) Festival in Caernarfon

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:40 UK time, Tuesday, 20 July 2010

An exciting arts festival hits Caernarfon this weekend and promises to be jam-packed full of literature, music, art and film.

Howard Marks and Rhys Ifans are two of the big names to feature at the on Saturday night. The two are set to chat to Nia Medi, though the talk is already sold-out. It follows Ifans' recent portrayal of Marks in film , which premièred at the Edinburgh Film Festival last month.

Race Horses

Friday evening kicks off with the opening of the festival's art exhibition, with work by artists such as Elfyn Lewis, Luned Rhys Parri, Morgan Griffith and Mari Gwent. This is followed with musical performances by Race Horses and Gai Toms.

Events on Saturday include a storytelling workshop for children, Jac a'r Blwch Aur, Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and National Poet of Wales Gillian Clarke will give a talk and readings, while Rachel Trezise will also talk about her latest novel Sixteen Shades Of Crazy.

Rachel Trezise

Saturday evening events include Cofiland - a chance to watch a series of short films based on Caernarfon by local film makers inside the walls of the castle - while Tudur Owen, Meic Stevens and Mr Huw provide the night-time entertainment.

Travel writer Jim Perrin and the former National Poet of Wales Gwyn Thomas are due to give talks on Sunday afternoon, while Welsh Artist of the Year Elfyn Lewis will also give a talk on his remarkable prize-winning year. Welsh band Geraint Løvgreen a'r Enw Da look set to finish the festival in style.

Gŵyl Arall runs from Friday 23 July until Sunday 25 July. .

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Dylan Thomas' last unfinished poem saved by National Library of Wales

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:30 UK time, Tuesday, 20 July 2010

The last unfinished poem by Dylan Thomas, written in America just a few years before his death in 1953, will reside at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth after it was bought from a collector.

Dylan Thomas

Elegy was purchased as part of a collection of the poet's works; the manuscript is said to be in a very early draft. Other works in the collection by Thomas include some of his very early poems, such as A Refusal to Mourn the Death by Fire of a Child in London.

The collection was bought from Jeff Towns, who owns in Swansea. Read the full story on the Â鶹Éç Local Mid Wales site.

Newport to host first comedy festival

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 16:20 UK time, Monday, 19 July 2010

As part of the , the south Wales city will hold its first comedy festival in the autumn.

Confirmed comedians for the festival already include big name acts Shappi Khorsandi and Jon Richardson, who will both perform at .

Paddy the Clown will be bringing comedy for the kids while the Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre will provide entertainment for the adults.

It's hoped that more established acts as well as local talent will also feature in the line-up.

Comedy Port will run from 9 October to 16 October, with events set to take place at venues across the city. Visit the for the latest information.

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Kyffin Williams art works fetch thousands at auction

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:35 UK time, Monday, 19 July 2010

Three oil paintings by the late Welsh artist Sir Kyffin Williams all exceeded their guide price estimates at an auction at Christie's in South Kensington, London, last week.

As we reported previously, three oil paintings plus three pencil and watercolour pieces were all going under the hammer, with sales expected to reach around £90,000 for all six of the works. The actual sales total reached over £130,000.

Farmer, Blaen Nantmor by Kyffin Williams, which sold at auction for £52,850

Farmer, Blaen Nantmor by Kyffin Williams, which sold at auction for £52,850

Fetching double its estimate, Farmer, Blaen Nantmor sold for £52,850 at the auction, while Morfa Conwy fetched £32,450, exceeding the estimate price of between £15,000 and £20,000. The third painting that went under the hammer, Man And Horse, also surpassed its top estimate by nearly £5,000, fetching £34,850.

Williams' three pencil and watercolour sketches sold for over £13,000, as Farmer with Stick III reached nearly double its top estimate at £5,625.

Works by other Welsh artists in the 20th Century British Art auction also sold well. Gwen John's Girl Standing In A Church reached the top guide price, selling at £5,000, while a pencil and watercolour by Josef Herman entitled Seated Peasant sold for £1,125.

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Blysh festival returns to Wales Millennium Centre

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 15:00 UK time, Friday, 16 July 2010

The second has returned to the , and promises more of the colourful combination of fun, comedic and bizarre acts that audiences enjoyed in 2009.

The Touch Trust at the 2010 Blysh Festival at the Wales Millennium Centre

The Touch Trust at the 2010 Blysh Festival at the Wales Millennium Centre

The festival kicked off this afternoon by the with further events today set to include Le Navet Bête (or The Daft Turnip), six young men who create and perform their ode to the artistry of buffoonery and dark clowning - pictured below right, who will perform their act Zemblanity - plus comedy featuring Noel James, Juliette Meyers and Dan Bland.

La Navet Bête, who will perform their act Zemblanity at the 2010 Blysh Festival

The main festival runs until Sunday 25 July, while Swedish company Cirkus Cirkör will carry on the circus entertainment at the Millennium Centre from 12-15 August.

There's a whole host of acts on this year's line-up including local talent NoFit State Circus and theatrical circus and dance group Citrus Arts; musical duo Bourgeois & Maurice (described as part cabaret, part-theatre and part-catwalk freak - one for the adult audience); acrobat trio Mimbre and magic tricks from Piff the Magic Dragon.

Welsh Independent Dance will put on their new graduate showcase and WOW! On The Waterfront returns as part of the , featuring carnival troupe SWICA and Spanish aerial company Grupo Puja.

Musical entertainment will feature the likes of Top Shelf Jazz, Gideon Conn, Melo Park and The Morning Orchestra.

While the festival has a naughtier side, with some events including the Secret Carnival's Day of the Dead fancy dress party being restricted to over 18s only, the festival is family friendly during the day - with lots of free performances, events and workshops happening in and around the centre.

There's also a chance to take part in a new audio theatre journey, in your local supermarket, in which you become immersed in a magical world in a familiar setting - a collaboration between the Wales Millennium Centre and . .

Visit the for a full list of events for the Blysh Festival, and let us know if you are planning to attend.

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Jonathan Pryce to become LIPA companion

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 09:45 UK time, Friday, 16 July 2010

Welsh actor Jonathan Pryce is among a number of stars from the world of arts and entertainment set to be honoured by the later this month.

Pryce will be made a LIPA Companion in the ceremony on 30 July, in which almost 300 students from the institute will be graduating.

Photograph of Jonathan Pryce

Companionships are awarded to individuals in recognition of their contributions to the world of arts and entertainment.

Others to receive the honour include former Ultravox frontman and co-organiser of Band Aid, Live Aid and Live 8 Midge Ure, dance promoter Heather Knight, music producer Alan Moulder, theatre designer Christopher Oram, community arts luminary Dave Pammenter and Michael Jackson's choreographer for two decades, LaVelle Smith Junior.

LIPA opened in 1996 and was co-founded by Sir Paul McCartney (Lead Patron) and Mark Featherstone-Witty (LIPA's Principal).

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Llangollen Fringe Festival begins amid funding fears

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 12:12 UK time, Wednesday, 14 July 2010

The 13th kicks off this Friday, though organisers fear it could be the last as they are suffering from arts budget cuts.

As the , funding for the festival has dwindled from £12,000 in grant support in 2009 to just over £1,000 this year. Event director Graham Timms has launched a plea for audiences ahead of the festival, which runs from Friday 16 until Saturday 24 July.

This year's musical line-up includes Pama International, John Otway, Kasai Masai, Alabama 3 and a double bill of Welsh acts Cate Le Bon and Race Horses.

Photograph of Cate Le Bon

Cate Le Bon

There's also set to be an audience with writer and broadcaster Will Self, and an appearance from punk poet John Cooper Clarke.

Other events taking place around Llangollen include the Fringe Fest street festival, Living History Walk, dance workshops, Murder Mystery Train and Ivor the Engine at Llangollen Railway.

Visit the for further information.

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Kyffin Williams artwork up for auction

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 15:40 UK time, Tuesday, 13 July 2010

Three oil paintings by Sir Kyffin Williams are due to go under the hammer this week, with sales expected to fetch in the region of £80,000.

The 20th Century British Art auction at , will also feature pencil and watercolour pieces by the late artist.

Sir Kyffin Williams' oil painting Man and Horse

Sir Kyffin Williams' oil painting Man and Horse, image courtesy of Christie's

The oil pieces include Farmer, Blaen Nantmor and Man and Horse - each with a guide price of between £20,000 and £30,000. A third painting, Morfa Conwy, is expected to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000.

The pencil and watercolour pieces on sale reflect beautiful rural images by the artist, and include a pencil and watercolour entitled Welsh Pony - set to fetch up to £2,000 - and Farmers on the Ridge, an ink and wash piece with a guide price of between £3,000 and £5,000.

Photograph of Farmer, Blaen Nantmor by Sir Kyffin Williams

Farmer, Blaen Nantmor by Sir Kyffin Williams, image courtesy of Christie's

Other pieces of Welsh significance in the auction, taking place on Thursday 15 July, include pieces by brother and sister Augustus John and Gwen John, together with a pencil and watercolour piece by Josef Herman, Seated Peasant, that is expected to fetch up to £800.

Gwen John's Girl Standing In A Church has a guide price of between £3,000 and £5,000, while Augustus John's pencil sketch Dorelia Wearing A Turban is expected to fetch up to £3,000.

Meanwhile, a new exhibition of Sir Kyffin's work is to go on display at Oriel Ynys Môn in Llangefni later this month.

Williams generously donated over 400 original works of art and sculpture to Oriel Ynys Môn, ranging from sketches to drawings to major oils. The exhibition, Unseen Work, will show some of those pieces along with works held in private collections from all over Wales and beyond.

Mynydd Parys (Parys Mountain) watercolour by Sir Kyffin Williams, part of the new exhibition at Oriel Ynys Môn

Mynydd Parys (Parys Mountain) watercolour by Sir Kyffin Williams, part of the new exhibition at Oriel Ynys Môn

The exhibition includes works on paper and on canvas and vary in subject from landscapes and seascapes to portraits.

Pat West, Principal Officer of Museums, Culture and Archives from the Isle of Anglesey County Council said of the exhibition: "This is a unique opportunity to see paintings from the Oriel's collection and especially work held in private collections that have never before been exhibited together as part of an exhibition."

Unseen Work will run at the gallery from 24 July until 23 January 2011.

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The Alarm hoax story set for silver screen

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 12:23 UK time, Monday, 12 July 2010

The story of a rock and roll swindle by Welsh band The Alarm is set for the silver screen, with open auditions for parts in the film due to take place in Rhyl later this week.

The band, led by frontman Mike Peters, staged a coup in 2004 by releasing a single, 45 RPM, fronted by a supposed up and coming teenage band The Poppyfields.

The Alarm

The fresh-faced youngsters were nothing but a front for the band who were planning their comeback; the hoax was a comment on how image dictates record sales in the present day - and how image-obsessed DJs were unlikely to play the single if it was released by the ageing rockers.

The ploy was successful, as the song reached number 28 in the charts after considerable airplay. It was a taster for the new Alarm album, In The Poppy Fields, which was released in April 2004.

Now the story is to be turned into a film, called Vinyl, which will be partly shot in Rhyl. The filmmakers are still casting and there will be at Rhyl Pavilion.

, it is believed that filming will begin on 6 August and continue until the first week of September.

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Katherine Jenkins and Sir Michael Gambon to guest star in Doctor Who Christmas special

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:21 UK time, Monday, 12 July 2010

The Â鶹Éç has announced that Sir Michael Gambon and Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins are to have major roles in the 2010 Doctor Who Christmas special.

Sir Michael is one of Britain's most respected actors, and has appeared in productions including The Singing Detective, Gosford Park and Sleepy Hollow and the Harry Potter films.

""Michael Gambon is as distinguished an actor as I can imagine and the fact that he was Dumbledore means that he is already know to millions of children," said lead writer Steven Moffat.

Sir Michael Gambon

Katherine Jenkins said of landing her role: "I'm over the moon to be involved in the Doctor Who Christmas special.

"I can't quite believe it as it's a part of the family tradition at the Jenkins household. I heard the news that I got the role on my 30th birthday and it was the best birthday present ever!"

Katherine Jenkins

This will be Jenkins' first major acting role. She previously had a cameo role in two 2007 episodes of Emmerdale.

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Michael Sheen receives Emmy Awards nomination

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 16:11 UK time, Friday, 9 July 2010

Port Talbot actor Michael Sheen has been nominated for an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Tony Blair in The Special Relationship.

He joins fellow Welsh actor Jonathan Pryce on the nominations list, as the Holywell-born actor picked up a nod in the category of outstanding supporting actor in a miniseries or movie - for his role as Mr. Buxton in Return To Cranford.

Another Welshman, Christopher Monger, was also nominated for his work as a writer on the HBO film Temple Grandin.

The nominations for the prestigious Emmy Awards were announced yesterday. Hosted by the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the Emmys are considered the most prestigious awards for the television industry.

Michael Sheen has also been speaking about his role in the forthcoming Disney film Tron: Legacy, a sequel to the groundbreaking 1982 film Tron. Sheen plays the part of Castor, a flamboyant nightclub host.

"The director he told me my character was a showman and to bring huge energy to the part, to make it very colourful and vivid and totally different than everything else that has come before in the film.

"He owns this club and he's supposedly the coolest cat in the city. But Castor's also kind of a chameleon so you're never quite sure who the real him is because it keeps changing all the time.

"I played him with a little bit of Frank-N-Furter , a little bit of Ziggy Stardust and a little bit of Joel Grey from Cabaret."

Chris Corcoran named Wales' first Reading Hero

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 15:40 UK time, Thursday, 8 July 2010

Comedian Chris Corcoran was yesterday named as Wales' first Reading Hero as part of the Welsh Assembly Government's National Literacy Plan.

His new role was announced by Education Minister Leighton Andrews at a School Effectiveness Framework conference at the University of Wales, Newport.

Photograph of Chris Corcoran, courtesy Welsh Assembly Government

Chris Corcoran at the announcement (photo courtesy of Welsh Assembly Government)

The Welsh comedian is a regular contributor to Rhod Gilbert's show on Â鶹Éç Radio Wales on Saturday mornings and has recently published his first book Random Thoughts, through .

Corcoran, a qualified teacher, commented: "I once missed a breaktime coffee as a pupil excitedly described to me in great detail the plot of the longest Harry Potter - earlier he had arrived in the UK unable to speak English. There's very little as empowering as reading."

chris-corcoran-wag-02.jpg

Chris Corcoran with Education Minister Leighton Andrews (photo courtesy of Welsh Assembly Government)

Education Minister Leighton Andrews said: "Fostering a passion for reading from an early age stands young people in good stead for the future.

"I'm grateful to Chris for agreeing to become our first Reading Hero. He speaks with passion about reading and education which makes him perfect for the role."

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New Dylan Thomas walking trail in Laugharne

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 13:20 UK time, Thursday, 8 July 2010

A new walking trail is being developed in Laugharne so that Dylan Thomas fans can read and walk in the footsteps of the legendary Welsh poet.

The trail has been inspired by Thomas' A Poem In October, written on his 30th birthday, in which describes views from woodland paths in the Carmarthemshire town where he lived with wife Caitlin.

Dylan Thomas

The Laugharne Corporation is behind the scheme and has secured a grant of £12,857 from the Developing Identity and Distinctiveness programme.

The project is set to involve panels of information in and around the town about Thomas' life and works while plaques will also be printed with verses of A Poem in October.

as Radio Wales' Gilbert John tries the trail.

Dylan Thomas' Boathouse in Laugharne

Laugharne is already a huge draw to admirers of the poet, the town being perhaps more associated with him than his birthplace Swansea.

It was the scene of the blossoming of his relationship with Caitlin, and the Boathouse in which the couple lived after it was purchased for them by one of Dylan's benefactors, Margaret Taylor, is now a major tourist attraction. Laugharne is also of course Dylan's final resting place.

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Rhod Gilbert to host Â鶹Éç Radio 2 show

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:48 UK time, Wednesday, 7 July 2010

Top Welsh comedian Rhod Gilbert is to be let loose on the eardrums of Â鶹Éç Radio 2 listeners with new comedy show Rhod Gilbert's Bulging Barrel of Laughs.

The hour-long show will begin recording next week in front of a live audience, and will feature fellow comedians Sarah Millican, Lloyd Langford and Greg Davies.

Rhod Gilbert

The show will also feature live music from bands such as Athlete, The Divine Comedy and Scouting For Girls. Plus there'll be a guest stand-up comedian on each show from the likes of Mark Watson, Jon Richardson and Russell Kane.

You can apply for free tickets for the live recordings by visiting the Â鶹Éç Shows, Tours and Events website.

Read more about Rhod on Â鶹Éç Wales Arts and listen to his latest radio show on Â鶹Éç Radio Wales.

Feel free to comment! If you want to have your say, on this or any other Â鶹Éç blog, you will need to sign in to your Â鶹Éç iD account. If you don't have a Â鶹Éç iD account, you can - it'll allow you to contribute to a range of Â鶹Éç sites and services using a single login.

The Box film project opens at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 13:55 UK time, Wednesday, 7 July 2010

are embarking on a new way of presenting film to their visitors in new project The Box.

The centre will showcase films on a daily basis in a viewing box that will be sited in the main foyer. Each season will features five or six artists, and one artist's work is shown per day on a rotational basis.

The first season is set to run from Thursday 22 July to Saturday 16 October and will show films by artists Dave Ball, Amanda Boyle, Cardiff-based collaborative artists Catrin Davies and Lewis Wright, Sabina Grasso, Laure Prouvost and art lecturer at Aberystwyth University Christopher Webster van Tonder.

Still photograph taken from Amanda Boyle's film Pop Art

Still photograph taken from Amanda Boyle's film Pop Art featuring Bill Milner

Amanda Boyle's short film is based on a short story by Joe Hill, about the developing friendship between unhappy 12-year-old Toby (played by Bill Milner), and new fellow class mate Art - an inflatable boy.

This touching film, that combines the harsh reality of life and the surreal immersive world of imagination, has won the audience award at the Austin Film Festival, the Best Narrative Short at the River Run Film Festival and a Special Jury Prize for directing at the Atlanta Film Festival.

Still taken from A Most Strange and True Report (2010) by Cardiff-based artists Catrin Davies and Lewis Wright

Still taken from A Most Strange and True Report (2010) by Cardiff-based artists Catrin Davies and Lewis Wright

Cardiff-based artists Catrin Davies and Lewis Wright often work collaboratively. Three works by the pair will be on show at the arts centre: Do You Really Think We're Serious? (2009), A Most Strange and True Report (2010), which explores explore ideas surrounding the passage of time, and Tug Of Life (2010), which explores the idea of unseen tension and the balance of power, and deals with temptation, love, conflict and sexuality.

Dave Ball is originally from Swansea and now lives in Berlin, Germany. His film Being Somewhere is to be shown and is a reflection on how to view a landscape.

Still taken from Dave Ball's film Being Somewhere

Still taken from Dave Ball's film Being Somewhere

Being Somewhere is divided into eight sections, each representing a single day, and is based around the activity of repeatedly visiting a landscape - of open countryside near Worpswede in north-west Germany.

The film charts the progress (or lack of it) of the artist's attempts to visualise and understand the landscape and to form coherent thoughts about it.

Sabina Grasso's Midnight Candy is a suite of four powerful portrait films set at sunset. The four pieces feature women's fitness champion Loana Muttoni in São Paulo, Brazil; acrobat juggler Angelika Jost in Berlin (where the artist lives); Ablo, a griot musician in Milan, and Jian who shows the artist Tai Chi in China.

Photograph taken from Sabina Grasso's Midnight Candy, featuring Loana Muttoni

Photograph taken from Sabina Grasso's Midnight Candy, featuring Loana Muttoni

Laure Prouvost's Owt is a surreal film that is likely to baffle viewers at first, as the audio narration has been spliced and jumbled and set to a seemingly illogical set of images. Repeated viewing of the three minute film, which has been described as "joyfully anarchic", is likely to unveil more as viewers start to gain an understanding of the whole piece.

Photograph taken from Christopher Webster van Tonder's film Freya

Photograph taken from Christopher Webster van Tonder's film Freya

Christopher Webster van Tonder is best known for his work with photographic images. His works on show are Pearl and Freya, and are manipulated 16mm films that are the result of the photographer's recent experiments with moving image.

Visit the for more information.

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New archdruid T James Jones installed in Wrexham

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:30 UK time, Tuesday, 6 July 2010

A new archdruid has been installed in Wrexham as part of National Eisteddfod ceremonies in Wrexham. The proclamation ceremony was held to celebrate that the north Wales town will host the 2011 National Eisteddfod.

Poet and playwright T James Jones, whose bardic name is Jim Parc Nest, won the National Eisteddfod crown twice, and was the chaired bard at the Flintshire Eisteddfod in Mold in 2007. He succeeds the previous archdruid Dic Jones, who died in 2009.

This year's National Eisteddfod will take place from 31 July-7 August in Ebbw Vale, Blaenau Gwent, on the site of the former Ebbw Vale steelworks.

Read more on the story on the and browse the Â鶹Éç Eisteddfod website for further information.

iSteddfod app launches for Apple's iPhone

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Â鶹Éç Wales Arts Â鶹Éç Wales Arts | 12:24 UK time, Tuesday, 6 July 2010

An iPhone app has been launched to give tech-friendly Eisteddfod visitors a guide to events and activites on the Maes.

iSteddfod iPhone appThe iSteddfod was developed by computer programmer Ambrose Choy and graphic designer Edryd Sharp, both of Llanberis.

"I got the idea at last year's Eisteddfod in Bala," Choy . "I wanted something that would have all the information about activities without having to carry the programme around.

"The Eisteddfod were quite happy for me to do it and provided the information. It has taken months to develop it so far and I'm hoping it will be successful.

"I think it's the first app for Welsh speakers. There was one launched last year for Welsh learners. I hope iSteddfod will develop with more features being added."

The app contains a detailed map of the Maes, as well as times and locations for events. This year's National Eisteddfod takes place in Ebbw Vale in August.

Michael Sheen's The Damned United to première on Â鶹Éç Two

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:10 UK time, Monday, 5 July 2010

The weekend of 17/18 July will see Â鶹Éç Two broadcast the UK television première of The Damned United starring Michael Sheen.

Sheen stars in the film, adapted from David Peace's novel, as football manager Brian Clough during his tenure as the manager of Leeds in the mid 1970s.

The weekend marks the official launch of Â鶹Éç Two as the new principal home for Â鶹Éç Films, the award-winning feature filmmaking arm of the Â鶹Éç.

Michael Sheen

Taking over from his hated rival Don Revie (Colm Meaney), Clough (Sheen) is determined to destroy the soul of his new club. Revie's Leeds were peerless, cynical, inspired. No one loathed them more than Clough. The feeling was mutual.

Clough is alone, haunted and sleepless throughout his brief and painful stint as manager of Leeds United. The compulsive, flawed and tragic figure he cuts takes on Shakespearian dimensions and presents us with a football manager's guide to heaven and hell.

The film, which also features British stars Jim Broadbent and Timothy Spall, is directed by Tom Hooper with the screenplay by Peter Morgan.

Other films premièring over the weekend include Eastern Promises and Is Anybody There?

John Crowley's Is Anybody There is set in 1980s England, with 10-year-old Edward (Bill Milner) growing up in an old people's home run by his parents. His only interest is a morbid obsession with ghosts, death and the afterlife until a new reluctant resident joins the home - Clarence, played by Michael Caine.

Meanwhile, Eastern Promises tells the story of a midwife (Naomi Watts) who sets out to discover the truth behind the murder of a young prostitute and finds herself snared in the deadly world of the Russian mafia. The film also stars Viggo Mortensen, Vincent Cassel and Armin Mueller-Stahl.

Stan Jones: a retrospective of Dylan Thomas-inspired art

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 16:15 UK time, Friday, 2 July 2010

Welsh artist Stan Jones will celebrate his forthcoming 80th birthday with a retrospective exhibition of his Dylan Thomas-inspired works at the in Penarth.

The artist, who grew up in Pembrokeshire explains, "The exhibition will be a celebration, a retrospective of the work I've done in the past, and includes 80 pieces from the 50s, 60s and 70s into the present."

Painting by Stan Jones, whose work has been inspired by the words of Dylan Thomas

Painting by Stan Jones, whose work has been inspired by the words of Dylan Thomas

Stan Jones began painting with inspiration from Dylan Thomas' poetry following a holiday in Cornwall nearly 50 years ago, when his wife was reading a collection of his writing.

He explains: "I had been dabbling in the studio but Thomas' remarks about nature, the sun, moon and stars started me on that angle. I very seriously got going and made an exhibition of about 100 paintings based on his poetry.

"In his work, Dylan Thomas expresses himself well about the manmade world and the natural world, always referring back to those ideas. He was quite spiritual and that shows in his work too. His lines had been ringing in my mind every time I came to paint. I didn't want any of my pieces to go at that first exhibition because I had grown so attached to them."

Jones studied art at Trinity College in Carmarthen and at Cardiff College of Art. He was the former Head of Art at St Cyres School in Penarth, teaching at the school for nearly 30 years.

Stan Jones pictured with some of his art work

Stan Jones pictured with some of his art work. Photos courtesy Oriel Washington Gallery.

As well as Dylan Thomas' work, Jones has depicted the poetry of Waldo Williams, a fellow Pembrokeshire man and one of his favourite Welsh language poets.

He adds: "My work is perhaps not quite as lyrically abstract now as it was in the 60s. But even the abstract work included ideas based on nature and farming the land. But there haven't been big changes in my work over the years apart from the use of different media, perhaps."

Stan Jones: A Retrospective is on display at in Penarth, Cardiff from Sunday 4 July to Sunday 25 July.

Phil The Shelf on Â鶹Éç Radio Wales

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:10 UK time, Friday, 2 July 2010

Â鶹Éç Radio Wales book programme Phil The Shelf has recently returned to the airwaves.

In this Sunday's show, presenter and author Phil Rickman delves into the crime genre as he explores the work of Val McDermid and Peter James.

He speaks to a forensic psychologist about the efficacy of psychological profiling in a crime investigation and also talks to ex-pharmacist Celia Kellet, who has written a book about poisons.

Â鶹Éç Radio Wales' Phil The Shelf presenter Phil Rickman

Â鶹Éç Radio Wales' Phil The Shelf presenter Phil Rickman

This week's Shelf Starter (the regular strand on the show that showcases unpublished writers) is David Weeks, who has produced a credible effort despite suffering from dyslexia. His work is analysed by Hazel Cushion, the founder of , who also suffers from dyslexia.

Tune in to the show on Â鶹Éç Radio Wales at 5.30pm on Sunday 4 July, and in the meantime, listen to the latest episode of Phil The Shelf on Â鶹Éç iPlayer.

It features former Shelf Starter Myrrha Stanford-Smith, who, after being featured on the show, went on to pen her novel The Great Lie: A Nicholas Talbot Adventure and secure a three-book deal with Welsh publishers .

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Bryn Terfel on Radio Wales Arts Show

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 14:25 UK time, Thursday, 1 July 2010

This evening's Â鶹Éç Radio Wales Arts Show features a giant of the Welsh classical and operatic world, Bryn Terfel.

Photo of Bryn Terfel as Hans Sachs in the WNO's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg © Catherine Ashmore

Bryn Terfel as Hans Sachs in the WNO's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg © Catherine Ashmore

Terfel is currently starring in the 's production of Wagner's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg. He makes his role début as Hans Sachs, the shoemaker and poet who is at the very heart of the opera.

Photograph of Bryn Terfel © Catherine Ashmore

Photograph © Catherine Ashmore

Listen to an audio clip taken from tonight's show, in which Terfel discusses his role in the WNO production:

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Tune in to the Radio Wales Arts Show at 6.30pm this evening, and on Â鶹Éç iPlayer for the subsequent seven days. Learn more about Bryn Terfel on the Â鶹Éç Wales Music website.

Find out more about the production on the .

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Philip Gross wins 2010 Wales Book of the Year

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:50 UK time, Thursday, 1 July 2010

has won the 2010 prize with his poetry collection I Spy Pinhole Eye.

It is the second major literary accolade for the professor of creative writing, who teaches at the University of Glamorgan, after he collected the 2009 TS Eliot Poetry Prize for another poetry collection The Water Table in January.

The Wales Book of the Year announcement was made at the awards ceremony at the St David's Spa and Hotel in Cardiff Bay last night, presented by Â鶹Éç Wales political editor Betsan Powys.

Photograph of the shortlisted authors Terri Wiltshire, Nikolai Tolstoy and Philip Gross © John Briggs

Photograph of the shortlisted authors Terri Wiltshire, Nikolai Tolstoy and Philip Gross © John Briggs

Gross was shortlisted along with Terri Wiltshire for her novel Carry Me Home and Nikolai Tolstoy for The Compilation of the Four Branches of the Mabinogi.

The award for the Welsh language prize was also handed out at the ceremony last night, with John Davies scooping the prize for Cymru: Y 100 lle i'w gweld cyn marw.

Read more about the Wales Book of the Year award on Â鶹Éç Wales Arts and browse galleries from the longlist and shortlist announcements from earlier this year.

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Beyond The Border storytelling festival

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 11:40 UK time, Thursday, 1 July 2010

Storytelling festival returns to in Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan, this weekend.

The festival, which runs from 2-4 July 2010, is dedicated to promoting understanding of the world's pre-literature and oral traditions. It started life in 1993, and was the centrepiece of a Wales-wide month of storytelling as part of the UK Year of Literature in 1995.

Photograph of Beyond the Border storytelling festival

Photograph taken at a previous Beyond the Border storytelling festival

Themes for the 2010 storytelling festival include In The Footsteps Of Marco Polo, which will feature stories and music from Italy and Ancient Greece, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia and more.

There's also Arabian Nights stories from Egyptian storyteller Chirine El Ansary, music from Iraq's Ahmed Mukhtar and Arabian Nights revelations from scholar Robert Irwin in the collection 1001 Nights.

And in Out Of The Twilight there are stories from the Celtic past, including tales from the Mabininogion Culhwch and Olwen and Bran and Branwen - stories of love, courage and heroism retold in words, music and song.

Michael Harvey at a previous Beyond the Border storytelling festival

Michael Harvey at a previous Beyond the Border storytelling festival

Activities for children include top storytellers, painting, puppets, shows by the Hand To Mouth Puppet Theatre and - perhaps for the adults too - Punch & Judy.

There's also set to be juggling, bookshops, market stalls, international cuisine and more. Visit the for further information and ticket prices.

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Myrrha Stanford-Smith releases debut novel at 82

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Laura Chamberlain Laura Chamberlain | 10:40 UK time, Thursday, 1 July 2010

Photo of Myrrha Stanford-Smith at the 2010 Hay Festival © Honno

Myrrha Stanford-Smith has secured an impressive three-book deal at the age of 82, following her submission of a manuscript to Â鶹Éç Radio Wales book show Phil The Shelf.

Myrrha was born and brought up in Brighton before retiring to Anglesey. She submitted a manuscript of a children's story to the Shelfstarters strand on the Radio Wales programme. (Photograph, right, courtesy of Honno.)

The show's producer, Martin Kurzik, saw the potential in her writing, which gave the author the confidence to pen The Great Lie: A Nicholas Talbot Adventure.

Published by , The Great Lie is a fictional, historical tale about the rivalry between writers William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe - with 16 year old Nicholas Talbot the swashbuckling protagonist at the heart of the novel.

, and listen to the latest edition of Phil The Shelf on Â鶹Éç iPlayer in which Myrrha speaks about her novel and the confidence she gained after the interaction with the show.

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