SPAN ARTS is delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of the Narberth A Cappella Festival, taking place on 7th and 8th March 2025. Set in the charming town of Narberth, Pembrokeshire, this iconic event celebrates the power and beauty of the human voice. With a rich legacy spanning over 25 years, the festival offers a unique, immersive experience brimming with music, creativity, and connection.

A celebration of community voices

Recognized as Wales’s premier a cappella festival, the event attracts participants from across the UK. This year’s theme celebrates the power of community voices with a vibrant programme of workshops, performances, and the cherished Singing Feast—an event that blends the joy of shared singing with a communal meal.

The festival opens on Friday evening with the Singing Feast at the Scout Hut in Narberth. This magical gathering sets the tone for the weekend, combining delicious food with uplifting harmony in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

On Saturday, participants can enjoy a range of inspiring workshops at Bethesda Baptist Church, led by some of the UK’s most talented vocal practitioners. These workshops cater to all skill levels, offering opportunities to develop new techniques, explore diverse traditions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The day culminates with the grand finale concert at St. Andrew’s Church, showcasing an eclectic mix of local and UK-wide a cappella choirs.

Meet the workshop facilitators

The 2025 Narberth A Cappella Festival features a stellar line-up of facilitators:

• Stacey Blythe: Multi-instrumentalist, composer, and regular collaborator with the Welsh National Opera, Stacey brings a wealth of experience and creativity.
• Yasmine Latkowski: A composer blending Arabic, English, and Welsh influences, Yasmine is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of musicians.
• Phoebe Martha: With over 15 years of experience, Phoebe specializes in improvisation and collaboration, sharing her passion for community music.
• Jay Okwulehie: Known for his work connecting African and Welsh traditions, Jay uses music to build unity and foster cultural exchange.
• Helen Yeomans: Founder of Glorious Chorus and an award-winning composer, Helen is celebrated for her inspiring workshops and innovative arrangements.
• Jamie Dawes-Hughes: A dynamic choir leader and singer touring with The Spooky Men’s Chorale, Jamie brings energy and expertise to every session.

Immerse yourself in the festival

The Narberth A Cappella Festival offers an unforgettable weekend of harmony, creativity, and inspiration. Whether you’re an experienced singer or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone—from the intimate joy of the Singing Feast to the dynamic energy of the workshops and the uplifting finale concert.

Event Details

Dates: 7th – 8th March 2025

Locations:

• Singing Feast: Scout Hut, Town Moor, Narberth, SA67 7AG
• Singing Workshops: Bethesda Baptist Church, High St, Narberth, SA67 7AP
• Final Concert: St. Andrew’s Church, 17 Church St, Narberth, SA67 7BH

Tickets: Available from January 2025. Advance booking is required. Visit www.span-arts.org.uk to secure your place.

Young talent prepares to shine
THE TORCH YOUTH THEATRE is gearing up to present Ravers, a vibrant and light-hearted new play that explores the world through the eyes of socially awkward teenagers. Part of the National Theatre Connections programme, Ravers promises to deliver a heartfelt and hilarious performance this March.

What is ‘Ravers’ about?
The play follows Ali, a determined teenager on a mission to host the ultimate rave for outcasts, affectionately dubbed “Neeks” (Nerds and Geeks). But there’s a catch: Ali has never been to a rave before. With no drugs, no drinking, and nothing wilder than hand-holding, this dry rave could either become the highlight of their lives or a complete disaster. For the Neeks, it’s about more than just music and dancing—it’s about finding comfort in being themselves and forging new friendships.

One cast member, aged 16, explained: “It’s about today’s generation of outcasts coming together to find solidarity and comfort in being themselves.”

Months in the making
The youth theatre members have been hard at work on the production since September under the guidance of Tim Howe, Senior Manager for Youth & Community. The group will debut the play at the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven from Thursday, March 6 to Saturday, March 8, before taking it to Aberystwyth Arts Centre in April.

Reflecting on the experience, one young actor shared: “Rehearsals are loud but enjoyable, always introducing us to new skills in performing arts while being a safe space to laugh and connect with each other.” Another added: “I never thought I’d get the opportunity to work with the National Theatre.”

A collaboration with a visionary playwright
Ravers was penned by the prolific playwright Rikki Beadle-Blair, MBE, whose remarkable career spans over 40 plays, films, and TV series. Known for his vibrant storytelling, Beadle-Blair’s works often delve into themes of identity and belonging.

Tim Howe, the production director, expressed his enthusiasm: “The Connections programme celebrates emerging talent across the UK. We’re thrilled to perform Rikki Beadle-Blair’s play, which promises a fun-filled, bop-tastic evening at the theatre.”

Event details
Ravers will run at the Torch Theatre from Thursday, March 6, to Saturday, March 8, with performances starting at 7:30pm. Tickets are £10 for adults and £8 for concessions.

Content warnings:
The play includes depictions of underage drinking, moderate language, themes of anxiety, and references to the loss of a parent.

Whether you’re a fan of theatre, an advocate for youth talent, or simply looking for an evening of laughs and heartfelt moments, Ravers is a show not to be missed.

OPERA star Sir Bryn Terfel is calling on the world’s most talented young singers to compete for a title that could propel them to international stardom.

The renowned bass-baritone described the Pendine International Voice of the Future competition at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod as “a wonderful opportunity” for budding performers to launch their careers on the global stage.

Sir Bryn, from Pantglas, near Penygroes, Gwynedd, will headline the Eisteddfod’s closing concert on Sunday, July 13, at the International Pavilion. He plans to perform songs from his latest album, Sea Songs, alongside acclaimed folk group Fisherman’s Friends and Welsh folk singer Eve Goodman.

The concert will also feature the final of this year’s Pendine International Voice of the Future competition, which has been a highlight of the festival since its launch in 2013. Last year, Singaporean soprano Shimona Rose claimed the title in a thrilling finale against Welsh soprano Manon Ogwen Parry.

Prestigious prize

Sponsored by Pendine Park through the Pendine Arts and Community Trust (PACT), the competition awards the winner the Pendine Trophy and a £3,000 cheque. The runner-up will receive £1,000.

The closing date for entries is Thursday, February 20. Entrants, aged 19 or over, must submit an audio recording and proof of age with their application. They will perform a seven-minute programme in the preliminary rounds and a ten-minute programme in the final, featuring works from oratorio, opera, lieder, or song, sung in their original language.

Sir Bryn said: “The Pendine International Voice of the Future competition is a fantastic opportunity for talented young singers. It provides a real launchpad for careers onto the global stage.”

A global stage

Llangollen Eisteddfod’s Artistic Director, Dave Danford, said this year’s competition final, held during the closing concert, would give contestants the chance to perform on the same stage as Sir Bryn.

“The competition provides a valuable stepping stone for young singers pursuing professional careers,” he said. “So far, we’ve received entries from China, Nigeria, England, and Wales. The selection panel will choose the competitors after the February 20 deadline.”

The competition was conceived by Pendine Park proprietors Mario Kreft MBE and his wife, Gill, who praised the extraordinary talent it continues to attract.

Mr Kreft said: “The standard is phenomenal. This year’s contestants also have the thrill of sharing a stage with Sir Bryn, one of the opera world’s true giants.”

Exciting concert lineup

The Eisteddfod’s evening concerts promise something for everyone. Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey opens the season on Tuesday, July 8, with hits from The Who and his solo career, including a Q&A session with fans.

On Wednesday, July 9, a special concert, Uniting Nations: One World, will mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. The event will feature Karl Jenkins’ One World performed by an international massed choir, including the Stay At Home Choir.

Thursday, July 10, sees BRIT Award-winning artist KT Tunstall perform her iconic album Eye to the Telescope with a live orchestra, marking its 20th anniversary. On Friday, July 11, Il Divo makes its Llangollen debut, delighting fans with their classical crossover repertoire.

For details on the Pendine International Voice of the Future competition and tickets, visit international-eisteddfod.co.uk.

Caption:
Sir Bryn Terfel performing at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. (Pic: Supplied)