CRICKHOWELL’S CL ARENCE HALL
NEWSLETTER & WHAT’S ON
A month of extraordinary events at Clarence Hall
May has been a month to remember at Clarence Hall, with a tremendous range of events that have brought together music lovers, schoolchildren, history enthusiasts, dancers, artists and the wider Crickhowell community.
The month began with a bang as the Crickhowell Music Festival launched in style, presented by Crickhowell Choral Society. The Hall was packed out for an unforgettable folk evening with Avanc, a dynamic band of young musicians from across Wales. Specialising in reviving forgotten musical treasures from old manuscripts and reworking them with youthful energy, Avanc treated the crowd to a thrilling evening of Welsh jigs, reels and even the exciting spectacle of clog dancing — a first for the Hall! It was a brilliant opening, setting the stage for a festival full of outstanding performances.
The festival came to a memorable close on Bank Holiday Monday with an exceptional recital by renowned tenor James Gilchrist and pianist Anna Tilbrook. Their intelligent and emotionally rich programme, delivered with musical mastery, captivated the audience and served as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to move, connect and transform. Congratulations to Crickhowell Choral Society for yet another outstanding musical achievement.
Continuing the music theme, the Hall then came alive with youthful enthusiasm as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales entertained local primary schools. A varied and engaging programme introduced young listeners to the full range of orchestral instruments, inspiring the next generation of music lovers. Huge thanks go to everyone who made this joyful educational morning possible.
The community spirit continued on Friday, 9 May, when Hall volunteers hosted an Afternoon Tea to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. In partnership with Crickhowell Volunteer Bureau, the event brought people together to honour this historic occasion with tea, cake, conversation and musical entertainment by local choir, Cantorion Phoenix. It was a true community celebration, made possible by the efforts of many. That evening, the celebrations continued with a VE Party featuring performances by Universal Translators and Halo, bringing the community together on the dance floor for a memorable night.
The Hall continued to buzz with our mid-month Country & Western Night — a fun evening of music, dancing, hats and boots, all in support of Crickhowell Volunteer Bureau. Huge thanks to everyone who came along and helped raise vital funds for this local organisation.
Adding to the lively programme, Gilwern Primary School lit up the stage with a two-night run of the much-loved musical Bugsy Malone. The young cast gave confident and energetic performances, bringing the story to life with enthusiasm and flair. Backed by a dedicated team of teachers, parents and volunteers, the production was a triumph in every sense, and Clarence Hall was proud to host such a display of young talent.
For those interested in history and dance, Dr Ann Hinchcliffe led a fascinating Tudor and Stuart Dance Workshop. Open to all, the workshop offered a practical, hands-on experience of dances from 1550–1650. Supported by the Society of Recorder Players, it provided an enriching glimpse into the music and movement of centuries past.
Finally, over the Spring Bank Holiday Weekend, the Clarence Hall took part in the much-loved Crickhowell Open Studios event, welcoming back Torfaen Arts — a collective of amateur and professional artists dedicated to producing exhibitionquality work. Visitors were treated to a vibrant display of paintings, photographs, and mixed media pieces, showcasing a rich variety of artistic talent. A fitting conclusion to a tremendous month!
Coming up…
Limehouse Lizzy
Limehouse Lizzy are the world’s number one tribute band to Thin Lizzy. On Saturday, 31 May, they’re returning to the Clarence Hall, courtesy of Global Promotions. Tickets from https://www.seetickets.com/event/limehouse-lizzy/theclarence-hall/3238704 and Crickhowell Volunteer Bureau.
U3A
Join Crickhowell’s thriving u3a for its next meeting on Tuesday, 3 June. Coffee is served from 10am, with announcements and u3a matters at 10.30am, followed by the guest speaker. More info at: https://www.crickhowellu3a.org/monthly-meetings
Beaufort Male Choir & Ebbw Valley Brass
Living with Dementia present Beaufort Male Voice Choir and Ebbw Valley Brass Band on Saturday, 14 June. Yeti Television will also be present, filming the concert for a forthcoming Sky Arts documentary that follows the journey of Beaufort Male Choir. Tickets £18 from Suzan on 07876 085769 or livingwithdementiacrickhowell@gmail.com
Live Family Friendly Wrestling
British Kingdom Pro Wrestling comes to Crickhowell on Sunday, 15 June and promises an afternoon of thrilling, fully interactive live wrestling. Doors open at 3pm with the hard hitting, high flying action starting at 3.30pm. Tickets from https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/live-family-friendlywrestling-comes-to-crickhowell-tickets-1307211758559
Vice Versa
The talented cast of Theatre Adhoc return on Thursday, 26 June at 7pm with their performance of “Vice Versa”. Loosely based on Miles Gloriosus by Plautus, Vice Versa is a madcap, farcical, feel-good comedy from multi-award-winning playwright Phil Porter. Tickets £11 from https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/theatreadhoc/vice-versa-by-philporter-or-the-rise-and-fall-of-general-braggadocio/e-ddoppz
A Musical Journey
Don’t miss Charlie Thould and guests on Saturday, 28 June at 7pm. Charlie is a Year 11 student at Crickhowell High School who has been passionate about musical theatre since the age of seven. This concert is both a celebration of his achievements so far and a fundraising event to help support his college fees. Tickets £10 from WhatsApp Linda Swanson on 07393296375 or email swansonlm@aol.com
