Â鶹Éç

Josie D’Arby presents highlights from the 2021 Llangollen Eisteddfod.

This year’s events in Llangollen combine new commissions from Catrin Finch and Paul Mealor, performed both online and in the famous pavilion, with a remarkable artwork that decorates the old bridge at the heart of the town. It climaxes in possibly the biggest musical event in Wales since the pandemic began.

The international performers may not be able to travel to Llangollen this year, but a new dance track has been created by singer-songwriter Lily Beau and rapper Magugu. Shared on TikTok, it invites dancers the world over to take part.

Catrin Finch has been working on a new commission combining harp with Indian tabla percussion and traditional wooden flutes. Add in beatboxer Mr Phormula and the Cardiff Oasis refugee choir, and the result is a piece that reflects the international outlook of the eisteddfod.

Luke Jerman is an internationally renowned visual artist whose projects have included a giant slide in Bristol and a huge replica of the moon – now he takes on the medieval bridge at the heart of Llangollen.

Composer Paul Mealor has been working with the writer Mererid Hopwood on a piece for orchestra and chorus on the theme of tangefedd (peace). It’s a work that reflects the original spirit of the Eisteddfod, which was set up to unite nations through music and dance following the Second World War. More than 100 socially distanced singers take part, drawn from several of the choirs that have won at Llangollen in the past. For many, it will be their first chance to sing together and perform since the Covid pandemic started, and it promises to be an emotional occasion.