Fforwm y Celfyddydau, Diwylliant a'r Cyfryngau Merthyr Tydfil Arts, Culture and Media Forum

Open Mic Night

2012-03-22T19:30:00.000Z

Date: Thursday 22 March 2012

Dyddiad: Dydd Iau, 22 March 2012

Open Mic Night
with Ann Drysdale

Noson Meic Agored
gyda Ann Drysdale

Ann was born in the North West and brought up in London. She has lived in places as disparate as a narrowboat in the Midlands and a smallholding on the North York Moors where she learned stockmanship by experiment and brought up three children as a single parent. During this time she wrote one of the longest-running by-line columns* in the provincial press.
In 1988 Ann started a degree course in English Literature at York, but having left formal education in the sixties she had not realised that the language of critical theory had developed along entirely different lines from that of literature itself and her vocabulary proved inadequate. She was later awarded an MA in the teaching and practice of creative writing, has been a visiting lecturer at Cardiff University and spent eighteen months as writer-in-residence at UWE, Bristol. She has taught at all levels, from Ty Newydd to special needs primary schools and was poet in residence for the Peterloo Poets Schools Poetry Week in 2002. Most recently she has collaborated with photographer Tim Collier on a book of poems celebrating the changing face of the South Wales valleys.
She is an accomplished and popular reader of her own and other people’s work, has reached the final of the Cheltenham All-comers’ Slam and has made recordings for Isis Audiobooks. She is also the author of four volumes of idiosyncratic memoirs (**)
Her four collections of poetry, Between Dryden and Duffy (2005), The Turn of the Cucumber, Gay Science and Backwork, all from Peterloo Poets, have been very well received.
Her first volume was shortlisted at Aldeburgh in 1995. Individual poems have won prizes in the Manchester, Cardiff, Peterloo, Housman Society, Bridport and National poetry competitions and she is the current holder of the Dylan Thomas Prize for poetry in performance.
* It began as A Woman’s View from the Clevelands in the Northallerton, Thirsk and Bedale Times and developed into the Country Tales which were a feature of the Yorkshire Evening Post for twenty years.
** Faint Heart never Kissed a Pig, Sows’ Ears and Silk Purses, Pearls Before Swine all published by Routledge and Kegan Paul and A Pig in a Passage published by Robert Hale.

For further information please contact: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk
Am fwy o fanylion cysylltwch: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk

The Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Gwesty'r Imperial, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UH.

MTCBC & Literature Wales
CBSMT a Llenyddiaeth Cymru

Times: 7.30pm.
Amseroedd: 7.30yh.

Prices: Free
Pris: Free

Open Mic Night

2012-02-23T19:30:00.000Z

Date: Thursday 23 February 2012

Dyddiad: Dydd Iau, 23 Chwefror 2012

Open Mic Night
with Paul Groves

Noson Meic Agored
gyda Paul Groves

Paul Groves is a poet. Born Gloucester 1947; has lived in Wales and in the Forest of Dean. Gregory Award recipient and a major prizewinner in numerous competitions. His work has appeared widely in magazines and anthologies, including Introduction 3 (Faber), The Bright Field (Carcanet), Burning the Bracken (Seren). Creative Writing lecturer and Open College of the Arts tutor; has 30 years’ teaching experience.
In 2007 and for an unprecedented second time, Paul won first prize in the Times Literary Supplement competition for his poem ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’. The prize was judged anonymously, with a reader ballot choosing from a shortlist of eleven poems. ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’ is included in Paul’s new collection Qwerty which was published by Seren in 2008. Paul also won this award in 1986, came second in 2001, and has recently learnt that his poem ’The Hug’ was placed third in the 2008 competition. Over 3,000 entries were received worldwide.
Selected Publications:
Academe (Seren, 1988)
Ménage à Trois (Seren, 1995)
Eros and Thanatos (Seren, 1999)
Wowsers (Seren, 2002)
Country Boy (Starborn Books, 2007)
Qwerty (Seren, 2008)

For further information please contact: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk
Am fwy o fanylion cysylltwch: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk

Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Gwesty'r Imperial, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UH.

MTCBC & Literature Wales
CBSMT a Llenyddiaeth Cymru

Times: 7.30pm.
Amseroedd: 7.30yh.

Prices: Free
Pris: Free

Open Mic Night

2012-01-26T19:30:00.001Z

Date: Thursday 26 January 2012

Dyddiad: Dydd Iau, 26 Ionawr 2012

Open Mic Night
with Tim Richards

Noson Meic Agored
gyda Tim Richards

Tim has appeared in 'Red Poets' magazine from the beginning and been very prominent in its performances for 17 years. He has written many scripts for film and TV and contributed on many occasions to 'Private Eye'.

For further information please contact: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk
Am fwy o fanylion cysylltwch: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk

The Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Gwesty'r Imperial, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UH.
MTCBC & Literature Wales
CBSMT a Llenyddiaeth Cymru

Times: 7.30pm.
Amseroedd: 7.30yh.

Prices: Free
Pris: Free

Once Upon A Time

2011-12-20T14:00:00.000Z

Date: Tuesday 20 December 2011

Dyddiad: Dydd Mawrth, 20 Rhagfyr 2011

Once Upon A Time
A Christmas Show
by Likely Story

When a group of time travelling storytellers crash land in a Welsh town somewhere near you, they dust themselves off and start trying to tell one of their favorite fairytales. Armed with trunks of costumes, musical instruments, buckets of energy and their trusted storytelling engine, they begin where all good stories should begin... "Once upon a time..."
Unfortunately for them, their trusted story engine was damaged in the crash and before they know it they are forced to tell four stories at once! ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, ‘Snow White and The Seven Dwarves’, ‘Hansel and Gretel’ and ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ all get an outing in this fast, furious and fun family Christmas show.
Join our group of hilarious steam punks (think eccentric Victorian explorers with a time machine) on their unique journey through some of the best stories ever told, as they struggle to keep the wolves (and bears) from the door and desperately try to make it to “The End”. With the help of the audience, our brave storytellers will try to answer those all-important Christmas questions, like “Why are her teeth so large?” and “Why does my porridge taste of ginger bread?”
Suitable for children, adults and woodland creatures alike, this is a Christmas show like no other. So book now, and don’t trust old women carrying apples.
http://www.likelystory.org.uk/

Gurnos Social Club / Clwb Cymdeithasol Y Gurnos
28 Chestnut Way, Gurnos, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 9SB.

A Night Out event
Digwyddiad Noson Allan

Times: 2pm.
Amseroedd: 2yh.

Prices: £3 (Concessions: £2 Disabled, OAP, Unwaged, Children)
To purchase tickets for this event, contact: The 3Gs Development Trust on 01685 350888.
Pris: £3 (Consesiynau: £2 Anabl, Pensiynwyr, Anghyflogi, Plant)
Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â:
Ymddiriedolaeth Datblygu'r 3Gs ar 01685 350888.

HUMBUG!

2011-12-15T19:00:00.000Z

Date: Thursday 15 December 2011
Dyddiad: Dydd Iau, 15 Rhagfyr 2011

HUMBUG!
Clwyd Theatr Cymru
Theatre for Young People / Mae Theatr ar gyfer Pobl Ifanc

HUMBUG!
By Tim Baker
“Merry Christmas! What right have you to be merry? What reason have you to be merry?” said Scrooge
Starting with Dickens’ famous “A Christmas Carol”, writer/director Tim Baker has turned this timeless story into a fantastic family show for all ages. Expect fun, live music, a bit of skullduggery and theatrical magic!
Tim’s reinvention of “A Christmas Carol” is timely too - touring on the eve of the celebrations commemorating 200 years since Dickens’ birth in 1812.
Don’t be a humbug this Christmas. Come and join us for some Festive fun.

Dowlais Community Centre / Canolfan Gymunedol Dowlais
Station Road, Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil.

A Night Out event
Digwyddiad Noson Allan

Times: 7pm.
Amseroedd: 7yh.

Prices: £3
(Concessions: £2 Disabled, OAP, Unwaged, Children)
To purchase tickets for this event, contact:
Dowlais Community Development Forum 01685 389445.
Pris: £3
(Consesiynau: £2 Anabl, Pensiynwyr, Anghyflogi, Plant)
Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â:
Fforwm Datblygu Cymunedol Dowlais 01685 389445.

Noson Garolau

2011-12-13T18:30:00.002Z

Dyddiad: Dydd Mawrth 13eg o Rhagfyr 2011

Date: Tuesday 13th December 2011

Noson Garolau

Ysgolion a Mudiadau lleol yn perfformio

Local schools and organisations performing

Theatr Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful.

Times: 6.30pm.

Amseroedd: 6.30yh.

Pris: £3 / £2

Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â 01685 722176.

Price: £3 / £2

To purchase tickets for this event, contact 01685 722176.

Siôn Corn

2011-12-09T16:00:00.000Z

Dyddiadau: Dydd Gwener 9fed a Dydd Sadwrn 10fed o Rhagfyr 2011

Dates: Friday 9th and Saturday 10th December 2011

Siôn Corn

Dewch i gael stori gyda Siôn Corn
Come for a story with Santa Clause

Theatr Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful.

Times: 4.00pm.
Amseroedd: 4.00yh.

Pris: £4
Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â 01685 722176.
Price: £4
To purchase tickets for this event, contact 01685 722176.

Open Mic Night

2011-12-08T19:30:00.000Z

Date: 8th December 2011
Dyddiad: 8fed o Rhagfyr 2011

Open Mic Night
with Ellie Evans

Noson Meic Agored
gyda Ellie Evans

Imperial Hotel, High Street, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Gwesty Imperial, Stryd Fawr, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.

MTCBC & Literature Wales
CBSMT & Llenyddiaeth Cymru

Times: 7.30pm.
Amseroedd: 7.30yh.

Prices: Free
Pris: Am ddim

Noson Lawen Iawn

2011-12-08T19:00:00.000Z

Dyddiad: Dydd Iau, 8 Rhagfyr 2011

Date: Thursday 8 December 2011

Noson Lawen Iawn

Noson o adliniant i'r teulu cyfan
An evening of entertainment for the whole family

Theatr Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful.

Times: 7.00pm.
Amseroedd: 7.00yh.

Pris: £5 (Consesiynau: £3.50 Anabl, Pensiynwyr, Anghyflogi, Plant)
Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â 01685 722176.
Prices: £5 (Concessions: £3.50 Disabled, OAP, Unwaged, Children)
To purchase tickets for this event, contact 01685 722176.

The wizard, the goat and the man who won the war

2011-11-26T19:30:00.001Z

Date: Friday 26 November 2011

Dyddiad: Dydd Gwener, 26 Tachwedd 2011

The wizard, the goat and the man who won the war

Written and directed by DJ Britton
Featuring Richard Elfyn as Lloyd George

Ysgrifennwyd a chyfarwyddwyd gan DJ Britton
Perfformiad gan Richard Elfyn fel Lloyd George

Coalition government. Political scandal. David Lloyd George took it in his stride and still found time for a colourful personal life. The Welsh Wizard was a giant of 20th Century global politics, yet the nation remains divided about him. How could a Welsh-speaking chapel boy become the steely statesman who saw Britain through the Great War? How could the champion of non-conformist Christianity become a womaniser living a double life?

How could this protector of the poor risk so much in the pursuit of wealth? Writer/director D.J.Britton and BAFTA-winning actor Richard Elfyn have created an exhilarating solo performance, finding mystery, charm, poetry and much humour in Lloyd George's extraordinary life. Set in Antibes, France, on his 50th wedding anniversary, this speculative drama follows Lloyd George's imagination through his imperfect past into dreams of further conquests.

"Lloyd George is a dramatist's dream, a mass of contradictions: charismatic, intelligent, foolish, implusive, clinically decisive and painfully human... It may be a one-man play, but don't expect a monologue. Richard Elfyn becomes all the people in Lloyd George's world and somehow manages to sing and dance his way into the great man's soul". D.J.Britton

"Richly enteraining" Sally Baker, Director, National Writers' Centre

"Absolutely spell-binding: beautifully conceived...superbly acted" Professor Neil Reeve, Swansea University

Llywodraeth glymblaid… gwarth gwleidyddol… roedd David Lloyd George yn feistr ar y sefyllfa ond roedd ganddo amser o hyd i gael bywyd personol lliwgar. Roedd y Dewin o Gymru’n gawr yng ngwleidyddiaeth fyd-eang yr 20fed Ganrif, ond eto mae amrywiaeth barn yn y genedl amdano o hyd. Sut gallai Cymro Cymraeg o fachgen capel droi’n wleidydd haearnaidd a lywiodd Prydain drwy’r Rhyfel Mawr? Sut gallai hyrwyddwr Cristnogaeth anghydffurfiol fod yn ferchetwr â bywyd dwbl? Sut gallai hwn a amddiffynnai’r tlodion fentro cymaint ar drywydd cyfoeth?

Mae’r ysgrifennwr/cyfarwyddwr D.J. Britton a’r actor Richard Elfyn, sydd wedi ennill BAFTA, wedi creu perfformiad unigol gwefreiddiol, gan ddod o hyd i ddirgelwch, swyn, barddoniaeth a llawer o hiwmor ym mywyd hynod Lloyd George. Wedi’i gosod yn Antibes, Ffrainc, ar ei hanner canfed pen-blwydd priodas, mae’r ddrama synfyfyriol hon yn dilyn dychymyg Lloyd George drwy ei orffennol amherffaith i freuddwydion o goncwestau pellach.

Perfformir y ddrama hon yn Saesneg.

Theatr Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful.

Times: 7.30pm.
Amseroedd: 7.30yh.

Prices: £10 (Concessions: £8 Disabled, OAP, Unwaged, Children)
To purchase tickets for this event, contact 01685 722176.
Prisiau: £10 (Consesiynau: £8 Anabl, Pensiynwyr, Anghyflogi, Plant)
Er mwyn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer y digwyddiad hwn, cysylltwch â 01685 722176.

Rock School

2011-11-23T16:23:00.000Z

FREE ROCK ACADEMY AT MERTHYR COLLEGE ON MONDAY EVENINGS BETWEEN 4 – 7pm

As part of the First Campus initiative at the University of Glamorgan, we are very pleased to introduce MERTHYR ROCKS, a free Rock Music Programme running at Merthyr Tydfil College on Monday evenings between 4 and 7pm on the following dates:

January 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th
February 6th, 20th, 27th
March 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th

We plan to work with up to 24 young people between the ages of 10 and 18 years in four groups. Each group will ideally be made up of maximum of: one drummer, one bassist, one or two guitarists, one keyboard player and a vocalist. Participants need to have a minimum of grade 3 or equivalent on their instrument, they do not need to be able to read music.

Each band will work to produce between two and four songs to perform at a live gig on Sunday the 1st April 2012 (venue to be confirmed). Bands from MERHTYR ROCKS will perform alongside bands from the JUNIOR ROCK MUSIC ACADEMY in ATRiuM.

There is NO CHARGE to participate in MERTHYR ROCKS.

There are twenty four spaces – eight guitar spaces and 4 each on drums, vocals, bass and keyboards. Spaces are strictly on a first come first served basis. To book a place please contact Jane Ellis by email at jellis@glam.ac.uk or on 01443 482912.

I hope you will agree that these workshops offer an outstanding opportunity for participants to engage in a fun, stimulating and educational event.

I look forward to hearing from you

Yours sincerely
Jane Ellis
First Campus Co-ordinator
University of Glamorgan

Open Mic Night

2011-11-17T19:30:00.000Z

Date: 17th November 2011 Dyddiad: 17eg o Dachwedd 2011

Open Mic Night
with Catherine Fisher

Noson Meic Agored
gyda Catherine Fisher

MTCBC & Literature Wales
CBSMT & Llenyddiaeth Cymru

Imperial Hotel, High Street, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Gwesty Imperial, Stryd Fawr, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.

Times: 7.30pm
Amseroedd: 7.30yp

Prices: Free
Pris: Am ddim

ASSOCIATED BOARD of DANCE; WELSH LAUNCH

2011-11-17T10:38:00.002Z

ASSOCIATED BOARD of DANCE; WELSH LAUNCH
TO ALL DANCERS & DANCE TEACHERS.

Get on the right track for a future in dance,

The association that looks after the teacher.
The Associated Board of Dance (ABD) announce their national launch dates:

You are invited to The Welsh Launch - Ballroom & Latin, Street Dance & Irish Dance

Sunday 22nd January 2012 at The Cocervative Club, Merthyr Tydfil, 10.30 am. - 3.00pm.
FREE ADMISSION

Contact Wales Rep Simon Pearson 07904389019 or 01443690647.
Visit ABD web site at http://www.abdance.net/

Many thanks
Simon
Check out my website at http://www.dancewithsimon.co.uk/

Much Ado About Wenlock

2011-11-09T19:00:00.000Z

Date: 9th November 2011
Dyddiad: 9fed o Dachwedd 2011

Much Ado About Wenlock

by/gan Vamos Theatre

The Myfanwy Theatre, Merthyr Tydfil College , Ynysfach, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1AR.
Theatr y Myfanwy, Coleg Merthyr Tudful, Ynysfach, Merthyr Tudful, CF48 1AR.
A Night Out event.
Digwyddiad Noson Allan.
Times: 7.30pm
Amseroedd: 7.30yh

Prices: £5 / £4 concessions
Pris: £5 / £4 consesiynnau

Self Employment

2011-11-03T13:34:00.000Z

If you are thinking about self employment there are a number of training workshops being run in Merthyr in November/December 2011 which can help. If you would like more information or book a place please contact Kristian Churchill on 01495 722030 or 07500 454682.

The workshops in Merthyr will be held at the Guest Club, High Street, Dowlais, CF48 3HA. Dates for forthcoming workshops are:
Monday 21st Nov 12-4pm - Introduction to self employment
Tuesday 22nd Nov 10am to 4pm - know your market & competitors/Develop a marketing strategy
Wednesday 23rd Nov 10 to 4pm - Operations/Costing & pricing your product/service
Thursday 24th Nov 10 to 4pm - Financial Planning / Financial Administration

Monday 12th December 12 to 4pm - Introduction to self employment
Tuesday 13th December 10am to 4pm - Know your market & competitors/ Develop a marketing strategy
Wednesday 14th December 10am to 4pm - Operations/costing & Prcing your product/service
Thursday 15th December 10am to 4pm - Financial Planning/Financial Administration

L l a f u r: Imaging the Labourer

2011-11-01T09:30:00.000Z

Dates: Until 27th November, 2011

Dyddiadau: Tan 27ain o Dachwedd, 2011

L l a f u r: Imaging the Labourer

An exhibition of selected works by Josef Herman (1911-2000)

Arddangosfa o detholiad o gelfwaith gan Josef Herman (1911-2000)

Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil,CF47 8RE.

Castell Cyfarthfa, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8RE.

Times: Closed Monday

Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm

Sat and Sun 12pm - 4pm

Amseroedd: Ar gau Dydd Llun

Mawrth - Gwener 10yb - 4yh

Sadwrn a Sul 12yh - 4yh

Prices: Free

Prisau: Am ddim

L l a f u r: Imaging the Labourer “It would be true to say that the miner is the walking monument to labour” so concluded Polish artist Josef Herman.
An exhibition of selected works by Josef Herman (1911-2000)
Cyfarthfa Castle celebrates artist Josef Herman’s centenary

An exhibition showcasing Josef Herman’s rapidly executed, expressionist sketches of miners, land workers and fisher folk has opened to the public at Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery. The exhibition will be introduced and discussed during an insightful gallery ‘Walk and Talk’ with the Chair of The Josef Herman Art Foundation Cymru, Lynne Bebb. The ‘Walk and Talk’ is free to members of the public at 1:30pm on Saturday 19th November.

‘Llafur – Imaging the Labourer’ is an insightful exhibition celebrating the labourers that Josef Herman encountered during his travels around the world, this includes the collier – who he held in deep regard.
This special exhibition will run until 27th November 2011.
Exhibition Walk and Talk 1:30pm Saturday 19th November.

Jamie Bevan a'r Gweddillion

2011-10-15T19:00:00.000+01:00

CD launch, Jamie Bevan a'r Gweddillion, local pseudo-folk with a taste of Merthyr.

Saturday 15th October,

8pm

The Imperial Hotel,
Pontmorlais,
Merthyr Tydfil,
CF47 8UH.

£3 entry (all proceeds towards Cylch Meithrin Canolfan Soar)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lansiad CD, Jamie Bevan a'r Gweddillion, cerddoriaeth werin lleol gyda blas o Ferthyr.

Nos Sadwrn 15fed Hydref,

8yh

Gwesty'r Imperial,
Pontmorlais,
Merthyr Tudful,
CF47 8UH.

Mynediad £3 (arian tuag at Cylch Meithrin Canolfan Soar)

Starting up your own business - free training

2011-10-05T11:17:00.000+01:00

Thinking of starting up your own business / working for yourself, but not sure where to start?

Why not come along to free training workshops being held in the Guest Keen Club, Dowlais in October. For more information please contact Kristian on 01495 722030.

October Dates for workshops are:
Monday 24th 12noon to 4pm - Introduction to self employment
Tuesday 25th 10am to 4pm - Know your market and Competitors / Develop a marketing strategy
Wednesday 26th 10am to 4pm - Operations / costing and pricing your product/ service
Thursday 27th 10am to 4pm - Financial Planning / financial administration

GŴYL SOAR

2011-09-17T10:00:00.000+01:00

Dydd Sadwrn 17/09/2011
10.00am
Canolfan Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UB.
GŴYL SOAR
Rhowch gynnig ar rywbeth newydd sbon trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg AM DDIM!
Mae sesiynau blasu'n cynnwys: Sbaeneg i Ddechreuwyr, Tylino Indiaidd i'r Pen a Straeon Digidol.
Gofal plant am ddim.
Caffi Cwtsh a Siop y Ganolfan ar agor drwy'r dydd.
Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Saturday 17/09/2011
10.00am
Canolfan Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UB.
GŴYL SOAR - SOAR FESTIVAL
Try somthing new through the medium of Welsh FOR FREE!
Taster sessins include: Spanish for beginners, Indian Head Massage and Digital Stories.
Free child-care.
Caffi Cwtsh and Siop y Ganolfan will be open during the day.
For further information please phone
Menter Merthyr Tudful Office 01685 722176

Horticultural Show

2011-09-03T14:00:00.000+01:00

Trefechan and Cefn Gardeners Association is holding their annual show at Cefn Coed Community Centre on Saturday 3rd September 2011.

A range of open sections for vegetables, flowers, flowers, domestic - includes knitting, needlework, woodcraft etc

The event will be opened at 2.45pm by Councillor Lisa Mytton. Doors open at 2.30pm.

Judges
Mr G Carey (Blackwood)
Mrs A Willets (Pontllanfraith)
Mr D Barry (Machen)

Domestic
Miss W Jones (Cefn Coed)
Mrs Barry (Pontsticill)
Mr Rees (Merthyr Tydfil)
Mr Edwards (Dowlais)
Schedules, rules and entry forms from Mr G Baker (Hon Sec) on tel: 01685 377751

Global Village / Pentref Byd Eang

2011-08-18T10:00:00.000+01:00

Dydd Sul, 18fed o Fedi 2011,

Canolfan Hamdden Merthyr Tudful.

Sunday, 18th September 2011,
Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre.

Be Your Own Boss Event - Thursday 8th September 2011

2011-07-22T11:18:00.002+01:00

Be Your Own Boss Event - Thursday 8th September 2011
Tired or working for some else or out of work?

Want to be your own boss and live your own dream?

Drop in and find out how
Thursday 8th September 2011
from 12 to 4pm at
Trefechan Community centre

Free advice and information will be available on the day on how to develop your idea, start your own business, funding and support available for businesses. Why not pop in for a chat.

Advice is also available on the day for existing businesses!

For more information, please contact Communities First on 01685 383758

Merthyr Rising Memorial / Cofeb Gwrthryfel Merthyr

2011-07-20T15:34:00.000+01:00

A group has been establshed with the aim of erecting a memorial to comemorate the Merthyr Rising on the old Castle Cinema site, where the rising is said to have begun.

The Merthyr Rising of 1831 was the violent climax to many years of simmering unrest among the large working class population of Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales and the surrounding area.

Please leave a comment to express any views you may have on this idea (adding your relationship to Merthyr or the rising would be useful). The next meeting will be Monday, 15^th August, 5pm, Canolfan Soar, Merthyr.

Life in Merthyr - Photographic Exhibition

2011-07-02T09:30:00.000+01:00

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery presents Life in Merthyr - A photographic exhibition that shows life in Merthyr Tydfil from the late 19th Century to the modern day. Runs from 2nd July - 24th July 2011.

Have you got any photos of life in Merthyr Tydfil? It doesn't matter if they are old or new, if they show family and friends or the buildings and streets of Merthyr throughout the years they can be displayed as part of the exhibition. If you wish to take part and display some photos of your won all you have to do is contact the Museumk to find out more.

Tel: 01685 727371 or email: museum@merthyr.gov.uk

Billy Elliot

2011-07-01T00:00:00.000+01:00

Bedroc 2011

2011-06-17T19:00:00.000+01:00

Beat Rock - Welsh Hip Hop Championship 2011

2011-05-15T09:30:00.000+01:00

Welsh Hip Hop Championship 2011

2011-05-04T00:00:00.000+01:00

Hi,

Please find details attached for BEAT ROCK Championship 2011 Wales. The official qualifier for the Hip Hop Internationals IDANCE UK Championships at Thorpe Park in June 2011.

In preparation for competition, all crew entries will be offered a free choreography workshop with Liara, Choreographer of "JUKEBOX JUNIORS" also a Q & A session giving you guidelines to help structure your sets.

If you are a Welsh Crew or know of a crew that would like to represent Wales then Beat Rock is the only way you can attain a place at the Official Qualifiers In Thorpe Park and the possibility of moving onto the World Chamionships in Las Vegas.

The event will be held in Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre on Sunday 15th May 2011, and is the official qualifier for the UK Championships which are to be held

at Thorpe Park in 5th June 2011.

ALL ENTRIES MUST BE IN BY 4TH MAY 2011

Please could you forward to anyone that may be interested, i.e. Dance Clubs, Schools, Youth Centres, Community Groups, Communities 1st, Sports Development, etc.

The website www.hiphopdancewales.co.uk is now live so please feel free to visit. You can download an entry form via the website as well.

CLICK HERE FOR ENTRY FORM

We also have a FACEBOOK GROUP - BEAT ROCK! HIP-HOP Dance Wales

If you require any further information please don’t hesitate to contact us on the e-mail address below or on 07561 329125

Kind regards

Hip Hop Dance Wales.

E: info@hiphopdancewales.co.uk

W: http://www.hiphopdancewales.co.uk/

Open Mic Night / Noson Meic Agored

2011-04-14T19:30:00.000+01:00

Meeting/Cyfarfod 01/02/11

2011-03-16T12:45:00.001Z

MEETING

5.30 – 7pm
1st February 2011
Soar Centre

Present:
Alison Harris (VAMT) AH
Michelle Power (Communities First, Town and Park) MP
Gus Payne (Arts Development Officer/MTCBC) GP
Lis McLean (Menter Iaith) LM
Heather Murry (Merthyr Aloud) HM
Anne-Marie Carpenter (Soar Committee) AC

1. Apologies: Ceinwen Statter, Ken Long, David Jones.

2. British Tourism Week: A week-long Tourism/Collaborate initiative designed to highlight and celebrate different aspects of “Britishness”, running from 14th to 20th March. Activities and events will soon be posted onto the MTCBC website’s What’s On guide. Collaborate Officer Ryan Barry is leading on British Tourism Week.

Soar activities for British Tourism Week include: 17th Welsh Music with Gareth Potter, 18th Miss Merthyr Tydfil at Soar (English lang.) A number of activities will take place on the 19th including Blas Treftadiaeth (A Taste of Heritage) (bi-lingual), with sessions in the Welsh Harp and Tin Whistle, Cymdeithas Soar present “Hanes Ycha Fi” (Horrible Histories) (Welsh lang.), Women in Merthyr Tydfil (English lang.). A bilingual film will also be shown, highlighting the heritage of Merthyr Tydfil. And there will be a small photography exhibition of winners of a local landscapes competition.

3. Global Village workshops: GP has submitted the application to Arts Council of Wales for an application form for workshops leading up to the next Global Village festival. ACW should come to a decision later this month.

Plans are for this year’s workshops to link much more closely to the final event on 22nd May.

A new film company; Engine House Productions (who have links to Merthyr Tydfil College) is currently developing a film to counteract the recent negative Sky TV programme, which looked for the worst in Merthyr to portray as an average view of the town/borough. The film being developed will be designed to be more representative of the area, to be shown at the main Global Village event.

LM and HM emphasised their interest in being part of the Global Village project.

ACTION: GP to make sure Engine House Productions are aware of Merthyr Aloud and the Soar Project.

4. Audiences Wales: GP confirmed that MTCBC Arts Development will continue to support AW for the 2011/12 year. The group need to decide what would be the best use of this resource.

LM informed the group that Soar now have a very good Marketing Committee set up for the Soar Project.

Ideas discussed concluded that there was a need to develop and Arts Audience considering:

o Soar and other current opportunities

o The Old Town Hall proposed development and other future opportunities.

o We need to be aware of the steps needed to address this issue of audience development

o We need to be able to understand and see descriptions of the outcomes of any proposed training session/day

ACTION: GP to contact Nick Beasley at AW to discuss a proposed training session(s) in relation to the above.

5. Arts Connect is a partnership proposal between 6 local authorities: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil and Torfaen led by Rhondda Cynon Taf. Arts Connect will be a combined local authorities shared arts service. Unlike H4A (which is an arts company, separate from, but accountable to the relevant local authorities and Arts Council of Wales) and unlike the now obsolete Creative Communities proposal (which was for community groups rather than local authorities). RCT, as lead have passed Arts Connect’s Business Plan at cabinet level. This is now being discussed with the other local authorities, including discussions between finance and Human Resources teams to move the process forward. The current expectation is that the project will be ready to begin sometime during the 2011/12 year.

6. Merthyr Express column: The Merthyr Express’s new editor has decided to remove the weekly Arts Forum column (together with the Memories feature on the same page) from the paper. GP has been asked to continue sending the information, which will be spread throughout the paper.

Soar Arts Centre: Work at Soar Arts Centre and Y Ganolfan Gymraeg is set to be completed on budget. Extra funds have also been sought from Coalfields Regeneration Trust, who have agreed £47000 for sound and lighting equipment.

The Management Committee set up in October and related Sub-groups have been working very well, with members showing a great deal of support and good will towards the project.

The first event at Soar Arts Centre will be Les Miserables, which will run from 28th February until 3rd March (including schools only performances).

A dignitaries and celebrities evening on 1st March will pre-empt an official launch in June.

Events currently planned or being developed include; Glyn Wise, Aesop’s Fables, Youth Theatre, together with plans for dance companies and a comedy circuit in both Welsh and English. (Plus the activities mentioned above during British Tourism Week).

7. Zoom Young People’s Film Festival will be returning on March 9th until the 11th with young people’s films shown across the valleys, including Bishop Hedley School (via 3Gs). To contact Zoom for further info visit www.zoomcymru.com to send a message or call 02920 885505.

8. New Dance Classes for young people are being held at The Catholic Club Dowlais on Wednesdays. The classes will be based on competitive dancing, with goals to compete in the next competition at The Dowlais Dance Festival and for young people to take their medals in The Associated Board of Dance. There will be two categories; under 11 years and under 16 years in Ballroom & Latin American Dancing. Each class will last for an hour and will cost £2.50 per person. Visit www.dancewithsimon.co.uk for further info.

Classes start on Wednesday 16th February.

9. AOB:

o What’s On Guide: The group requested whether non-MTCBC events could be added to the MTCBC website What’s On guide. GP explained it is NOT MTCBC policy (due to staff time and possible legal implications) to add external events but he can add events for those he is working in partnership with, assessed on an event by event basis, time permitting.

o ACMF attendance: AH suggested we need to reconsider the ACMF’s purpose and whether to continue in its current format due to poor attendance in relation to past years. The group discussed changes over the last year or so which have not increased attendance.

LM pointed out that the Soar Management Committee is made up of many of the previous ACMF attenders and maybe those people have needed to choose one meeting or the other due to lack of time.

MP mentioned using Mentro Allan.

The original ACMF focus was considered;
• To get an Arts Officer in post
• To get a designated arts venue
• To work with partners to deliver the October Arts Festival

GP pointed out that the third point; the October Arts Festival wasn’t sustainable with the funds available, together with other initiatives. One of those initiatives effectively replacing the October Arts Festival was Global Village, which is very successful however attracting attendance at Workshop meetings has also been difficult.

o European Day: Taff Bargoed Regeneration Project are holding a European Day on Sunday 15th May 2011 from 10.00 until 2.00 in Parc Taf Bargoed. They are hoping to have some car boot sellers (about 5) and businesses selling their products, ideally mainly antiques and arts and crafts.

o H4A: MP informed the group that H4A have asked her to be a community based representative for H4A, attending quarterly meetings focusing on community participation.

HM also explained that she will be working on projects with H4A

o Jill Shuker: The group expressed its sadness at hearing of the untimely death of Jill over the Xmas break. Together with being a kind and friendly personality, Jill was a strong advocate for the arts and for the ACMF within MTCBC during her time as a Director and was instrumental in securing the current Arts Development Officer post.

LM added that Jill was also very supportive and professional in the early days when the reality of what we now see as the Soar Arts Centre was an embryonic vision of what could be.

10. Next meeting: 5:30pm, Tuesday 22nd March, Civic Centre.

The Witch

2011-02-18T18:00:00.000Z

'They think I'm dead, well I'm not dead yet!"

The story begins in a care home in South Wales in 2010, where an old woman, Anna, lies motionless in her bed. Beside her sit her son and grandchildren...they've just been clearing her house, ready to sell it, and the granddaughter wants to ask Anna about an old photograph they've found. A photograph of a family...a father, a sister and a little brother with a swastika on his arm...and a woman with her face scratched out...

"What's the use in talking about the past!? It's gone now. Let it rest."

But Anna can't stop the memories, flaring up in her mind like a pile of burning books...another life, long ago now, but still as vivid and real as if it were yesterday.

Set in 1930's Germany, 'The Witch' tells the story of a family struggling to survive, when who you really are can be a matter of life or death. It was a time of fear, intolerance and betrayal, when ordinary people had to choose to go along with things, or speak out; to obey the law or stand up for what they believed was right...

What would you do?

'The Witch' is an Active Theatre programme which includes a follow up workshop. Suitable for young people aged 11+

18th February at The Willows Centre, Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 4DX.
Numbers limited. To book or for further information, please contact Chris Tarbuck on ctarbucktroedyrhiw@hotmail.co.uk

23rd February at St Tydfil’s Well Church Hall, The Quar, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8TA.
Numbers limited. To book or for further information, please contact Merthyr Youth - Creative Development Project: office@merthyryouth.co.uk

Connect2 Links Scheme

2011-02-18T15:56:00.001Z

Connect2 Links Scheme

MERTHYR TYDFIL

The Event: The official opening of the Merthyr Tydfils Connect2 Links & Community Artwork Scheme
Time and date: From 11.00am – 1.00pm on Tuesday 15th March 2011
Location: Pentrebach Old Subway, Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil,
Contact /RSVP: For further information and/or to confirm your attendance contact Lyndsey Jenkins on 01685 725006 or alternatively email lyndsey.jenkins@merthyr.gov.uk

Timetable of Events
11.00am Meet and Greet & Official Launch of the links/community art project in Pentrebach
11.15am Photo Call & Walk of the Connect2 Project Area
12.00pm Convene at the Soar Arts Centre - Merthyr Tydfil Town Centre

12.05pm View progression of the project accompanied by tea/coffee and pancakes

End of ACMF News in Merthyr Express

2011-02-16T12:36:00.002Z

End of ACMF News in Merthyr Express

Unfortunately the weekly ACMF news column in the Merthyr Express has been dropped by the paper. Initially Merthyr Express promised to include the information each week but spread each item throughout the paper, rather than use the usual column format, however over the last two weeks the editing team at the paper has decided not to print any of the information submitted, therefore partners are now advised to send in any information directly to the paper and keep their fingers crossed for inclusion.

There was no reason given for this change other than that the paper is being re-designed.

Partners and interest groups are still more than welcome to add relevant information to this blog.

2 Swydd Llawn Amser

2011-02-03T10:35:00.001Z

Prosiect Soar

Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful
2 Swydd Llawn Amser

Swyddog Datblygu Celfyddydau a Rheolwr Theatr £26,000

Swyddog Gweinyddol £17,000

1. Ydych yn awyddus i ddatblygu’r celfyddydau a rheoli theatr newydd sbon?

2. Ydych chi am gefnogi gweinyddiaeth a ddatblygiad prosiect newydd ym Merthyr Tudful?

Cefnogir y ddwy swydd gan Y Loteri Fawr
Am fanylion pellach a ffurflen gais cysylltwch â
Lisbeth McLean
Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful CF47 8UB
01685-722176/ lis@merthyrtudful.com
Dyddiad Cau 18 Chwefror 2011.

The ability to speak Welsh is essential for these two vacancies at Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful who will deliver services in both Welsh and English.

News Column

2011-02-02T10:48:00.001Z

10th Feb 10

New Art Group
New members wanted for arts group which runs every Friday 6pm to 8pm in Park Baptist Church. For more information, please contact Paul on 07946 635848.

Children’s Ceramics

The Neigbourhood Learning Centre will be holding Ceramic Classes during the half term school holidays. A session for seven to ten year olds will be held on Tuesday, 22nd February and a session for eleven to fourteen year olds will be held on Wednesday, 23rd February. Both sessions will last from 10.30am until 12.30pm at the N.L.C. Pen-y-Dre, Gurnos. Sessions cost £5 each including refreshments. Booking is essential. To book or for further information, please contact Pauline on 01685 384936.

Welsh Folk Music

This Saturday, 12th February at 10.30am until 12.30pm, Y Ganolfan Gymraeg (The Welsh Centre), Merthyr Tydfil, will be hosting a Welsh bagpiping workshop, through the medium of Welsh. The workshop will cost £5 per person and will focus on Welsh repertoire for pipes, basic piping techniques, how to articulate and ornament the music, learning by ear, playing as a group and having a lot of fun! Some instruments are available for those who don’t have their own pipes, or for pipers currently playing different types of bagpipes. The workshops will use bagpipes in the key of C. If you are a beginner you should be able to play another wind instrument such as flute, whistle or clarinet, to a reasonable level. Please contact to confirm attendance and also whether you would like to use teaching sets of pipes, which will need to be reserved. For information about this and other dates, please contact Bagad Pibau Morgannwg at bagadmorgannwg@gmail.com or the Office at Menter Iaith Merthyr Tudful on 01685 722176.

Open Mic Night
Poet and author Phil Knight will be visiting The Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais tonight, Thursday 10th February, as the invited guest at the monthly Open Mic Night. Local author Mike Jenkins and other contributors will also be present, filling the night with poetry and verse. Born in Neath in 1965, Phil Knight graduated from the Polytechnic of Wales in 1988. He has been active on the far Left from early teens and joined the Anti–Nazi League and the Socialist Workers’ Party in 1993. His poetry comments on a wide range of social and political issues. He believes a knowledge of the past helps in understanding the present. Phil’s poems have been published in The Pen, Linkway, Wire, City Writings, Y Faner Goch, Target, ECTO-1, Quantum Leap, Solizzi and others together with his own publications including “Images of Past and Present - a collection of Poems”, published by Aramby Publishing. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC Arts Development and Academi. For further information, please contact: 01685 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Merthyr Aloud
The Merthyr Aloud community choir voice workshops are now on Fridays at 10.30am until 12.30pm at the Canolfan Gymraeg, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais (current access through Castle Street Car Park, during the building work on Soar Arts Centre). All are welcome to come along to these drop in voice workshops to learn some beautiful harmonies from different musical traditions with Natural Voice Practitioner; Heather Murray. No experience is needed and all songs are taught by ear. These sessions can help to improve your health, you can meet new people, and have lots of fun! Cost per session is £1, which includes refreshment. For more information or to book call Clare at Glamorgan Gates on: 01685 729940.

Photography Competition

2011-01-28T16:48:00.002Z

Photography Competition

To contribute to an exhibition in The Canolfan Gymraeg, 14th – 19th March 2011

Theme: Merthyr Tudful Borough Landscapes
Images: Good quality “jpeg” digital images on disc (3MB+).
Three pictures per person only.

Deadline: Monday 21st February 2011

Entries should be sent or handed into Arts Development, Civic Centre, Castle Street, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8AN.
(REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS!)
Further info from Gus Payne on 01685 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk

Cystadleuaeth Ffotograffiaeth

2011-01-28T16:47:00.000Z

Cystadleuaeth Ffotograffiaeth

I gyfrannu at arddangosfa yn y Ganolfan Gymraeg, 14eg – 19fed o Fawrth 2011

Thema: Tirluniau’r Sir Merthyr Tudful.
Delweddau: Yn ddelfrydol delweddau digidol “jpeg” o ansawdd da ar ddisg (3MB+)
Dim ond 3 lluniau y person.

Dyddiad Cau: 21ain o Chwefror 2011

Dylid anfon neu roi eich gwaith i Datblygu’r Celfyddydau, Canolfan Ddinesig, Stryd Castell, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8AN.
(COFIWCH GYNNWYS EICH MANYLION CYSYLLT!)
Rhagor o wybodaeth gan Gus Payne ar 01685 725382 neu arts@merthyr.gov.uk

News Column

2011-01-27T14:41:00.001Z

3rd Feb 10

Photography Competition
All photographers across the borough are invited to send in their pictures, on the theme of Merthyr Tydfil Borough Landscapes, to be part of a Photography Competition, contributing to an exhibition in The Canolfan Gymraeg, Pontmorlais on 14th – 19th March. Due to space limitations only those selected by the judges as being the very best images submitted, responding to the theme, will be able to be shown. Entries are also limited to three good quality “jpeg” digital images per person, between 3MB and 10MB in size on CD, DVD or floppy disc. Exhibited images will be printed out on a standard A4 paper size, but the actual image dimensions are open. The deadline for the competition entry is Monday 21st February 2011. The competition is free entry. Entries should be enclosed in an envelope marked “Photography Competition, Arts Development” and sent or handed into the Civic Centre, Castle Street, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8AN. Please remember to include your contact details. Further info from Gus Payne on 01685 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk

Open Mic Night
Poet and author Phil Knight will be visiting The Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais next Thursday night, as the invited guest at the monthly Open Mic Night. Local author Mike Jenkins and other contributors will also be present, filling the night with poetry and verse. Born in Neath in 1965, Phil Knight graduated from the Polytechnic of Wales in 1988. He has been active on the far Left from early teens and joined the Anti–Nazi League and the Socialist Workers’ Party in 1993. His poetry comments on a wide range of social and political issues. He believes a knowledge of the past helps in understanding the present. Phil’s poems have been published in The Pen, Linkway, Wire, City Writings, Y Faner Goch, Target, ECTO-1, Quantum Leap, Solizzi and others together with his own publications including “Images of Past and Present - a collection of Poems”, published by Aramby Publishing. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC Arts Development and Academi. For further information, please contact: 01685 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Land of Song

H4A, Head For Arts, the eastern Heads of the Valleys community arts project run regular sessions in community venues throughout the eastern Heads of the Valleys region. Sessions in the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney valleys include: Rhymney Community Choir, who meet on a weekly basis in St David’s Community Centre, Rhymney from January 2011 onwards. The choir is led by Ian Saunders. Reach the Heights - Singing Group meet in Pen-y-Dre Youth Club, Gurnos on Tuesday evenings from 4:30pm until 6:30pm on a weekly basis, led by Ian Saunders, and Reach the Heights – 3Gs choir, led by Gwyn Jones meet on a weekly basis. Harp classes, take place at the Canolfan Gymraeg, Pontmorlais delivered by Elin y Delyn. For further information on H4A activities, please visit www.head4arts.org.uk or contact info@head4arts.org.uk / 01495 357816.

Treharris: Have Your Say!
Next Monday 7th February at 5.00pm - 7.00pm, in the Taff Bargoed Communities First Office, 8 Perrot Street, Treharris, there will be a Community Consultation session where local people can make their voices heard. The participation of local people would be appreciated in the design of a gateway to link Treharris Town Centre and Parc Taf Bargoed. The Gateway theme is Mining Heritage. Anyone with old mining photos and memorabilia is encouraged to bring it along. There will also be refreshments provided. For further information, please contact Taff Bargoed Communities First on 01685 725495.

Arts Group - New Members Wanted

2011-01-25T15:06:00.003Z

New members wanted for arts group which runs every Friday 6pm to 8pm in Park Baptist Church. For more information, please contact Paul on 07946 635848.

News column

2011-01-19T16:18:00.001Z

27th Jan 10

Dafydd Iwan

Tomorrow night, Friday 28th January, there will be a bus leaving Merthyr Tydfil to see legendary Welsh language folk singer and politician Dafydd Iwan in Elliot’s, Wind Street, Aberdare. The night starts at 7.30pm. The price is £10 including ticket. Anyone interested should contact Greg Snelgrove on 01685 722176 or email greg@merthyrtudful.org. Dafydd Iwan was born in Brynaman in Carmarthenshire. He rose to fame as a singer-songwriter, writing and playing folk music in the Welsh language. By the late 1960s he was receiving television coverage both for his music and for his political activities, including being imprisoned in 1970 as part of the fight for Welsh language rights. During the 1970s, Dafydd Iwan's songs took in such themes as Pinochet's Chile; Welsh Devolution; the Vietnam War and the Northern Ireland troubles. His inherent internationalism continued in following decades, as his songs mention events such as the Tiananmen Square massacre (1989), the Gulf War (1990) and opencast mining in the south Wales valleys (1995). His biggest hit to date, "Yma O Hyd" ("Still Here"), released in 1981, has become a favourite of most Welsh folk music fans.

Garden For Wildlife
A series of gardening classes at Cyfarthfa Park Wildlife Garden (accessed via the top gate, off Gwaelodygarth Road) will be running this spring, all from 10am until 12pm, beginning with Garden Ponds and Rainwater Harvesting on Monday, 7th February. There will be a session on Rockeries and Amphibians on Monday, 7th March. The sessions conclude with Layering the Garden on Monday, 4th April. All classes are free entry with no need to book, simply turn up prepared with your wellies and take part! For further information please contact carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk or 01685 726251

Hedge-laying Course
Anyone interested in hedgelaying has the opportunity to receive a hedgelaying qualification, during a course on 31st January until 4th February. People able to attend for the full five days will receive a Level 1 Agored Cymru (formerly Open College Network) qualification. The Agored Cymru unit covers different hedgelaying styles and how to use and look after the tools correctly. For further information and to book a place, contact 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk
Welsh Folk Music
On Saturday, 12th February at 10.30am until 12.30pm, Y Ganolfan Gymraeg (The Welsh Centre), Merthyr Tydfil, will be hosting a Welsh bagpiping workshop, through the medium of Welsh. The workshop will cost £5 per person and will focus on Welsh repertoire for pipes, basic piping techniques, how to articulate and ornament the music, learning by ear, playing as a group and having a lot of fun! Some instruments are available for those who don’t have their own pipes, or for pipers currently playing different types of bagpipes. The workshops will use bagpipes in the key of C. If you are a beginner you should be able to play another wind instrument such as flute, whistle or clarinet, to a reasonable level. Please contact to confirm attendance and also whether you would like to use teaching sets of pipes, which will need to be reserved. For information about this and other dates, please contact Bagad Pibau Morgannwg at bagadmorgannwg@gmail.com or the Office at Menter Iaith Merthyr Tudful on 01685 722176.

Gweithdai pibyddio Cymreig

2011-01-18T16:22:00.001Z

Bagad Pibau Morgannwg. Gweithdai pibyddio Cymreig.

(Welsh language folk music activity)

Dydd Sadwrn 12/02/2011 Am: 10.30yb

Yn: Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UB.
(http://www.merthyrtudful.com/)

Dim ond £5.00 pob person

Bydd y gweithdai yn canolbwyntio ar alawon Cymreig, technegau sylfaenol, sut i ynganu ac addurno’r gerddoriaeth, dysgu wrth glust, chwarae fel grŵp a chael llawer o hwyl! Bydd rhai offerynnau ar gael i’r rhai sy ddim biau pibau eu hunain, neu i bibyddion sy’n canu pibau o wahanol fathau. Bydd y gweithdai yn defnyddio pibau mewn cyweirnod C.

Os ydych yn ddechreuwr bydd angen i chi ganu offeryn gwynt arall fel ffliwt, chwibanogl, neu glarinet, i lefel rhesymol.

Cysylltwch â ni i gadarnhau os yr ydych yn dod os gwelwch yn dda. Os hoffech chi ddefnyddio ein pibau ar gyfer dysgu, bydd angen i chi neilltuo eich set. Am fwy o wybodaeth am y dyddiadau, neu gwybodaeth arall am y gweithdai, cysylltwch â ni ar: bagadmorgannwg@gmail.com

Mae'r gweithdai yn cael eu trefnu gan Bagad Pibau Morgannwg a gyda chymorth oddi wrth Cyngor Celfyddydau Cymru.

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Merthyr Express column

2011-01-13T09:45:00.000Z

20th Jan 10

2011 Festivals - Zoom

Festivals set for 2011 in Merthyr Tydfil include Zoom; Wales' International Young People's Film Festival, which will be taking place this February and March.
Zoom is a young people's film and media development programme which incorporates a major international festival of children's film and media, offering young people across the south Wales valleys an opportunity to work with others to create their own film and media projects. Through Zoom's activities young people can make new friends, develop new skills and comment on the world around them. For more information about Zoom visit; www.zoomcymru.com.

Global Village Festival
During the early summer Cyfarthfa Park welcomes back the Global Village Festival established in 2005 to celebrate and raise awareness of the cultural diversity and heritage of Merthyr Tydfil and has continued every year since then, with the addition of community workshops in selected locations for two weeks prior to the main event day, since 2009, thanks to funding from the Arts Council of Wales. Merthyr Tydfil Global Village is a constituted group of volunteers, committed to working with statutory and voluntary organisations and with individuals to promote equality and diversity within the County Borough of Merthyr Tydfil. Global Village also receives funding from various sources including Big Lottery, MTHA, MTCBC, Arts Council of Wales, Communities First and others, together with in-kind support from MTHA, Merthyr Tydfil College, MTCBC, Glamorgan Gates, Menter Merthyr, Bridges Into Work, WAG and others. The 2011 event date will be Sunday, 22nd May. One of the Global Village aims is to celebrate and raise awareness of cultural diversity.

Bedroc Festival
June 2011 also welcomes back Bedroc; Welsh language music festival held in various locations in the village of Bedlinog, in the Taff Bargoed Valley. Past years have included ledgendary performers from the Welsh language music scene including Meic Stevens, Dafydd Iwan, Tebot Piws, Heather Jones and Bryn Fon together with many more established and up and coming performers including Merthyr’s very own Betti Galws. Details and performers for 2011 will be released closer to the date. For further information visit the What’s On guide at: www.merthyrtudful.com.

Treharris Gateway
On Monday 7th February at 5.00pm - 7.00pm, in the Taff Bargoed Communities First Office, 8 Perrot Street, Treharris, there will be a Community Consultation session where local people can make their voices heard. The participation of local people would be appreciated in the design of a gateway to link Treharris Town Centre and Parc Taf Bargoed. The Gateway theme is Mining Heritage, so if you have any old mining photos and memorabilia please bring it along. There will also be refreshments provided.

Merthyr Aloud
The Merthyr Aloud community choir voice workshops are now on Fridays at 10.30am until 12.30pm at the Canolfan Gymraeg, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais (current access through Castle Street Car Park, during the building work on Soar Arts Centre). All are welcome to come along to these drop in voice workshops to learn some beautiful harmonies from different musical traditions with Natural Voice Practitioner; Heather Murray. No experience is needed and all songs are taught by ear. These sessions can help to improve your health, you can meet new people, and have lots of fun! Cost per session is £1, which includes refreshment. For more information or to book call Clare at Glamorgan Gates on: 01685 729940

Gwibdaith Dafydd Iwan

2011-01-07T11:54:00.001Z

Merthyr Aloud

2011-01-06T15:51:00.001Z

Voice Workshops 2011

Merthyr Aloud

Community Choir

SING AWAY THOSE WINTER BLUES!

Come along to our drop in voice workshops & learn some beautiful harmonies from different musical traditions.

With Heather Murray – Natural Voice Practitioner

No experience needed – all songs taught by ear. Improve your health, meet new people, and have lots of fun!

Fridays 10.30 – 12.30

Canolfan Gymraeg, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais

Cost £1 (includes refreshment)

For more information or to book call

Clare at Glamorgan Gates on: 01685 729940

Noson yng nghwmni Hywel Davies

2011-01-06T09:48:00.001Z

Dydd Mawrth 18/01/2011
7.30yh
Gwesty'r Imperial, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UH.
Cymdeithas Gymraeg Soar.
Noson ddifyr yng nghwmni Hywel Davies.
Mynediad am ddim. Croeso i bawb ddod :)
Am ragor o fanylion cysylltwch â Greg ar 01685 722176 neu greg@merthyrtudful.org

Tuesday 18/01/2011
7.30pm
The Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8UH.
Cymdeithas Gymraeg Soar.
An Entertaining evening in the company of Hywel Davies.
Free entry. Everyone is welcome to come along :)
For further information contact Greg on 01685 722176 or greg@merthyrtudful.org

Merthyr Express column

2011-01-05T09:27:00.000Z

13th Jan 11
Poet’s Visit

Tonight’s (Thursday, January 13th) Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, welcomes poet and author Paul Groves at 7.30pm. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC and Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.
Tonight’s visiting author Paul Groves was born in Gloucester in 1947 and has lived in Wales and in the Forest of Dean. He has been a Gregory Award recipient and a major prize winner in numerous competitions. His work has appeared widely in magazines and anthologies, including Introduction 3 (Faber), The Bright Field (Carcanet), Burning the Bracken (Seren). He is a Creative Writing lecturer and Open College of the Arts tutor with over 30 years’ teaching experience. In 2007 and for an unprecedented second time, Paul won first prize in the Times Literary Supplement competition for his poem ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’. The prize was judged anonymously, with a reader ballot choosing from a shortlist of eleven poems. ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’ is included in Paul’s most recent collection Qwerty which was published by Seren in 2008. Paul also won this award in 1986, came second in 2001, and his poem ’The Hug’ was placed third in the 2008 competition. Over 3,000 entries were received worldwide. Further Open Mic Nights for the first half of 2011 will be with guest authors and poets; Phil Knight on 10th February, Mario Basini on 12th May, Paul C Evans on 16th June, Ivy Alvarez on 14th July and David Annwn on 29th September.

Ballroom and Latin Dance
A new Dance Festival comes to Dowlais this week, with the Dowlais Ballroom & Latin Dance Festival this coming Sunday, 16th January 2011. This will be the first dance competition of its kind to be held in Merthyr Tydfil, for juniors and adults nation wide. Adjudicators will be Lisa Darby from Caerphilly, Gary Foster from Willenhall, Brenda Gasgoigne from Halesowen and Michael Pharaoh from Llanelli. Richard Rose from Birmingham is Chairman and Robert and Janet Lowe from Pontypool are the Scruitineers. The venue will be The Catholic Club in Dowlais, which has one of the few remaining sprung maple dance floors in south Wales. Program details available on the website of Dance Practitioner and festival organiser and presenter Simon Pearson; www.dancewithsimon.co.uk.

Go Get StARTed
Leading up to the Olympic celebrations in 2012, Go Get Started is an opportunity for emerging visual artists to exhibit across Wales. Submissions are invited from artists aged from 11 to 17 and 18 to 30 years old, who identify as a disabled or deaf person, or have special educational needs, or other access requirement and live in Wales. A panel of judges will choose the final pieces of work that will become a part of this exciting art project. There is no set theme and the closing date is 31st January 2011. Please send a copy or scanned image or photograph of the art work initially. For details of how to enter contact Project officer, Kate Hampton via email at kate@dacymru.com or post@dacymru.com or call her on 02920 551 040. Or search on Facebook for Go Get StARTed (for the English page or search Cychwyn Celf! if you’d prefer the Welsh version. Whose Flame is it Anyway is part of Power of the Flame, funded by Legacy Trust UK, managed by Arts Council of Wales and delivered by Disability Arts Cymru.

Merthyr Express column

2010-12-24T10:36:00.000Z

6th Jan 11

Community Choir
Merthyr Aloud meets every Thursday from 1-3 pm. No experience is necessary, everyone is welcome to a warm and friendly atmosphere where songs from different musical traditions are taught by ear. For more details, please contact Natural Voice Practitioner Heather Murray on 01443 690289.

Poetry Competition
The 2011 Cardiff International Poetry Competition is now open and receiving entries. The first prize-winner will walk way with a cheque for £5000 for just one poem. Further prizes available are £500 for second place, £250 for third plus five runners up will receive £50 each. The competition is accessible to all; it doesn’t matter if you are an established poet or just dabble with verse now and then. Whether you’re from Merthyr or Malawi; Pwllheli or Portugal we want your poems.

The hard tasking of judging the 2011 competition will be down to mutli award-winning poets Don Paterson and Philip Gross. When entering make sure your poem is no longer than 50 lines, is unpublished, in English and not a translation of another author’s work and then send it to Academi with an entry form and payment. Entry fee is £6.00 per poem. The Cardiff International Poetry Competition is administered by Academi with the financial support of Cardiff Council.
Closing date is Friday, 25th March 2011. To receive an entry form, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Academi, CIPC11 Entry Form, Mount Stuart House, Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff, Wales, UK, CF10 5FQ. For more information contact Academi: 029 2047 2266 / post@academi.org

Open Mic Night
The next Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, welcomes poet and author Paul Groves on Thursday, January 13th at 7.30pm. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC and Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.
Visiting author Paul Groves was born in Gloucester in 1947 and has lived in Wales and in the Forest of Dean. He has been a Gregory Award recipient and a major prize winner in numerous competitions. His work has appeared widely in magazines and anthologies, including Introduction 3 (Faber), The Bright Field (Carcanet), Burning the Bracken (Seren). He is a Creative Writing lecturer and Open College of the Arts tutor with over 30 years’ teaching experience. In 2007 and for an unprecedented second time, Paul won first prize in the Times Literary Supplement competition for his poem ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’. The prize was judged anonymously, with a reader ballot choosing from a shortlist of eleven poems. ’The Mauve Tam-o’-Shanter’ is included in Paul’s most recent collection Qwerty which was published by Seren in 2008. Paul also won this award in 1986, came second in 2001, and his poem ’The Hug’ was placed third in the 2008 competition. Over 3,000 entries were received worldwide.

Merthyr Express column

2010-12-24T10:32:00.002Z

30th Dec 10

2011 Poetry Nights

Open Mic Nights at the Imperial Hotel continue in 2011 with Paul Groves on 13th January 2011 at 7.30pm. Open Mic Nights are supported by local award winning author Mike Jenkins who collects names on the night for those who’d like to join the guest author and read. The nights are free entry, sponsoured by MTCBC and Academi. Following Open Mic Nights for the first half of 2011 will be with guest authors and poets Phil Knight on 10th February, Mario Basini on 12th May, Paul C Evans on 16th June, Ivy Alvarez on 14th July and David Annwn on 29th September. For further information contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

2011 Festivals
Festivals set for 2011 in Merthyr Tydfil include Zoom; Wales' International Young People's Film Festival, which will be taking place this February and March.
Zoom is a young people's film and media development programme which incorporates a major international festival of children's film and media, offering young people across the south Wales valleys an opportunity to work with others to create their own film and media projects. Through Zoom's activities young people can make new friends, develop new skills and comment on the world around them. For more information about Zoom visit; www.zoomcymru.com.
During the early summer Cyfarthfa Park welcomes back the Global Village Festival established in 2005 to celebrate and raise awareness of the cultural diversity and heritage of Merthyr Tydfil and has continued every year since then, with the addition of community workshops in selected locations for two weeks prior to the main event day, since 2009, thanks to funding from the Arts Council of Wales. Merthyr Tydfil Global Village is a constituted group of volunteers, committed to working with statutory and voluntary organisations and with individuals to promote equality and diversity within the County Borough of Merthyr Tydfil. Global Village also receives funding from various sources for the festival day including MTCBC, Big Lottery, MTHA, Communities First and others, together with in-kind support from MTHA, Merthyr Tydfil College, MTCBC, Glamorgan Gates, Menter Merthyr, Bridges Into Work, WAG and others. The 2011 event date will be Sunday, 22nd May. One of the Global Village aims is to celebrate and raise awareness of cultural diversity.
June 2011 also welcomes back Bedroc; Welsh language music festival held in various locations in the village of Bedlinog, in the Taff Bargoed Valley. Past years have included ledgendary performers from the Welsh language music scene including Meic Stevens, Dafydd Iwan, Tebot Piws, Heather Jones and Bryn Fon together with many more including Merthyr’s very own Betti Galws. Details and performers for 2011 will be released closer to the date. For further information visit: www.merthyrtudful.com.

Live Music Now
Live Music Now’s 20th Anniversary Concert – Mapping Wales; will take place on Friday, 21st January at the Coliseum Theatre Aberdare. The concert promises to be a glittering celebration with performances by past and present musicians from the Live Music Now scheme including Craig Yates (Only Men Aloud), Dan Perkins, Sian Cameron, Ginge and Cello Boi, Lunar Saxaphone Quartet and Rhondda Cynon Taff County Youth Chorus. Tickets cost £10 for adults with £7 concessions. The evening starts at 7.30pm. For further information or tickets, please telephone 08000 147 111.

Volunteers wanted for Merthyr Hospital Radio

2010-12-22T12:13:00.004Z

Merthyr Hospital Radio provides a range of radio programmes for the patients/staff and visitors at Princes Charles Hospital.

Volunteer broadcasters are needed for the hospital radio. Full training will be provided and no previous broadcasting experience is required. For more information on this volunteer opportunity as well as other opportunities in the borough please contact Karen Foley on 01685 353913.

Trefechan Communities First Partnership News

2010-12-16T10:46:00.001Z

Thanks to funding from the Heads for Arts Programme and Trefechan Communities First Partnership, local community members have benefited from christmas arts train the trainer session. This passes on skills to key community members which they can then pass onto local community groups and residents. Representatives from Sandbrook House, Trefechan Nursery School, Communities First Partnership and Youth Club were in attendance at the event.

Thanks to partnership working with the Welsh national Opera and Trefechan Communities First Partnership local residents from Trefechan have been to see a dress rehearsal of the Magic Flute at the Wales Millenium Centre. Many residents had never previously had the opportunity to see an opera before and all enjoyed the performance.

Merthyr Express column

2010-12-15T13:01:00.000Z

23rd Dec 10

2011 Calendar

Next year’s Merthyr Tydfil Calendar celebrates some of the creative talents of the borough, using the theme Poems and Pictures, featuring the work of some of the many Merthyr Tydfil artists and poets, including poetry by the award winning author Mike Jenkins, novelist, biographer and poet Anthony Bunko, Maggie Pryce Jones, Margaret Lloyd and Bernard Harrington, together with a host of other worthy poets. The images come courtesy of, amoung others, celebrated artists Robert Alwyn Hughes and Ron Jones, illustrating the strong bond both artists still have with the place where they spent their formative years (Dowlais and Aberfan respectivley), plus the work of many other painters, photographers and an embroiderer all of whom give us a colourful picture of Merthyr Tydfil borough over the years. The 2011 calendar is available now for £2.95 from central library.
(Image: The Swing, Aberfan by Ron Jones)

Head For Arts
Head For Arts, the eastern heads of the valleys community arts organisation are currently holding Welsh Harp classes taking place at the Canolfan Gymraeg delivered by Elin y Delyn, a Singing Group in Pen-y-Dre Youth Club through the Reach the Heights programme on Tuesday evenings from 4:30pm until 6:30pm on a weekly basis, led by Ian Saunders, and the 3Gs choir, also through the Reach the Heights programme, led by Gwyn Jones. The choir will be meeting on a weekly basis from December 2010 onwards. for more information on Head For Arts activities and events through out the eastern heads of the valleys (Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent and north Caerphilly and Torfaen County Boroughs) email info@head4arts.org.uk, phone 01495 357816 or visit www.head4arts.org.uk.

Go Get StARTed
Go Get Started is an opportunity for emerging visual artists to exhibit across Wales. Submissions are invited from artists aged from 11 to 17 and 18 to 30 years old, who identify as a disabled or deaf person, or have special educational needs, or other access requirement and live in Wales. A panel of judges will choose the final pieces of work that will become a part of this exciting art project. There is no set theme and the closing date is 31st January 2011. Please send a copy or scanned image or photograph of the art work initially. For details of how to enter contact Project officer, Kate Hampton via email at kate@dacymru.com or post@dacymru.com or call her on 02920 551 040. Or search on Facebook for Go Get StARTed (for the English page or search Cychwyn Celf! if you’d prefer the Welsh version). Whose Flame is it Anyway is part of Power of the Flame, funded by Legacy Trust UK, managed by Arts Council of Wales and delivered by Disability Arts Cymru

Merthyr AloudMerthyr Aloud meets every Thursday from 1-3 pm (during term time). No experience is necessary, everyone is welcome to a warm and friendly atmosphere where songs from different musical traditions are taught by ear. For more details, please contact Natural Voice Practitioner Heather Murray on 01443 690289.

Merthyr Express column

2010-12-08T11:51:00.001Z

16th Dec 10

Greenhouse Craft
Get a taste of Christmas this coming Monday, 20th December, with some free Christmas Crafts sessions for parents and children at the Cyfarthfa Greenhouses. You can make a reindeer plant pot or take part in some herb planting, from 1pm until 3pm. For further information contact Leanne Williams on 01685 722340.

Santa Crafts
A Family Christmas craft workshop will take place, with a visit from Santa Clause himself this Saturday, 18th December from 11am until 12pm, 12:30pm until 1:30 and 2pm until 3pm at Canolfan Cyfarthfa, the new visitor centre in Cyfarthfa Park. The cost of a session will be £3 per child. Booking is essential. To book a place phone Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery on 01685 723112 or email museum@merthyr.gov.uk

Chrismas at Treharris
Treharris Boys and Girls Club will be hosting a Family Night and a Christmas Fayre this coming week. The Family Night takes place this Saturday, 18th December, starting at 8pm until 11pm, with a bar, disco, food, and fun activities. Entry is only £2 per person by ticket only. Then on Tuesday, 21st December, there will be a Christmas Fayre from 2pm until 6pm, with a table top sale, Santa's grotto, food and stalls. The Christmas Fayre is free entry to the general public but contact the club if you would like a table (tables for the Fayre cost £3). For more information please contact Treharris Boys and Girls Club on 01443 410841.

Santa’s Real Reindeers

This Saturday, 18th December, Santa Clause brings his real reindeers and grotto to Merthyr Tydfil town centre before they prepare for Christmas. Entry to the grotto is £3 each where your child can meet Santa Clause and tell him what they would like for Christmas. Each child will get a little gift and a wallet size photograph with Santa Clause. There will also be the opportunity to see and stroke Santa’s reindeers. There is no pre-booking for this event which is run on a first come, first served basis. Please expect to queue for this event as time is taken with each child so they fully enjoy their experience with Santa. There will be no admittance to the queue after 3.30pm. The event takes place from, 10am until 4pm, at Lower High Street.

Ballroom and Latin Dance

A new Dance Festival comes to Dowlais in the New Year, with the Dowlais Ballroom & Latin Dance Festival on Sunday January 16th 2011. This will be the first dance competition of its kind to be held in Merthyr Tydfil, for juniors and adults nation wide. Adjudicators will be Lisa Darby from Caerphilly, Gary Foster from Willenhall, Brenda Gasgoigne from Halesowen and Michael Pharaoh from Llanelli. Richard Rose from Birmingham is Chairman and Robert and Janet Lowe from Pontypool are the Scruitineers. The venue will be The Catholic Club in Dowlais, which has one of the few remaining sprung maple dance floors in south Wales. Programme details available on the website of Dance Practitioner and festival organiser and presenter Simon Pearson; http://www.dancewithsimon.co.uk/.

Go Get Started / Cychwyn Celf

2010-12-01T17:07:00.004Z

Go Get Started
A visual art project as part of Whose Flame is it anyway? Leading up to the celebrations in 2012.
Go get started is an opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit across Wales.
Submissions are invited from visual artists aged between 11-17 and 18-30 years old, who identify as a disabled or Deaf person, or have an SEN, or other access requirement and live in Wales.
A panel of judges will choose the final pieces of work that will become a part of this exciting art project.
Please send a copy/scanned image or photograph of the art work initially.
There is no set theme.
Closing date: Jan 31st 2011
For details of how to enter Contact: Kate Hampton (Project officer)
Email: kate@dacymru.com or post@dacymru.com
Tel: 02920 551 040
Address: Disability Arts Cymru
Sbectrwm, Bwlch Road, Fairwater, Cardiff, CF5 3EF
Or search on facebook for Go Get StARTed
Whose Flame is it Anyway is part of Power of the Flame, funded by Legacy Trust UK, managed by Arts Council of Wales and delivered by Disability Arts Cymru

Cychwyn Celf
Mae Cychwyn Celf yn gyfle i artistiaid ifanc i arddangos eu gwaith dros Gymru fel rhan o’n cynlluniau ar gyfer yr Olympiad Diwylliannol yn 2012.
Rydym yn gwahodd ceisiadau gan astistiaid gweledol rhwng 18-30 mlwydd oed, sy’n berson anabl neu Fyddar, neu â SEN, neu unrhyw anghenion hygrchedd, ac yn byw yng Nghymru. Bydd panel yn dewis y darnau o waith a fydd yn dod yn rhan o’r prosiect celf cyffrous yma. Does dim thema penodol.
Rydym hefyd yn gwahodd ceisiadau gan artistiad rhwng 11-17.
Dyddiad cau: diwedd Ionawr 2011
Cysylltwch â Kate Hampton, Swyddog Prosiect am fanylion.
Celfyddydau Anabledd Cymru, Sbectrwm, Heol Bwlch, Y Tyllgoed, Caerdydd, CF5 3EF.
Ffon: 02920 551 040
Ebost: kate@dacymru.com or post@dacymru.com
Neu chwiliwch ar Facebook am “Cychwyn Celf!”

Merthyr Express column

2010-12-01T16:33:00.001Z

9th Dec 10

Poetry Launch
Heolgerrig author and poet Mike Jenkins will be launching his new book "Moor Music" this Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm in the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais. Moor Music is a collection of open field poetry, published by Seren. The evening is free entry and will also include an Open Mic session, where contributors are welcome to come and read, sing or perform. MTCBC & Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Could You Be Billy?
The search is on throughout south Wales to find talented singers, actors and dancers to take part in a breath taking production by of Billy Elliot by award winning Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd. Following the enormous success of the Billy Youth Theatre 2010, the producers of Billy Elliot the Musical are delighted to announce that Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd from Aberdare have been chosen to participate in the second year of the countrywide scheme offering schools and youth groups the opportunity to stage their own production of this internationally award-winning show. Auditions will take place Monday 13th December from 5pm until 8pm, followed by a workshop day on Sunday 19th December. For an Audition Pack and to register your place by visiting www.retroacademy.co.uk or by calling Kieron Gough on 07949886556.
Billy Elliot writer Lee Hall, together with Martin Koch (Musical Supervision and Orchestrations), have adapted their original script and orchestrations to produce a shortened version of the show exclusively for groups staging local productions as part of the project. Billy Youth Theatre 2011 will involve participants from schools and established youth groups in England, Scotland and Wales, and to performers aged 10 -19 years.
Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd will be performing their Billy Youth Theatre production at the Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare in July 2012.

Family Christmas Show

Next Wednesday join Clwyd Theatr Cymru for a memorable and magical production filled with live music, song and the unexpected; a show for all ages with some Christmas magic for everyone. Award winning director and writer, Tim Baker has once again created a fantastic feast of family fun, exploring how Christmas is celebrated around the world. Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association have organised the event in association with the Night Out scheme and MTCBC Arts. If you enjoy great storytelling, live music and something a bit special, this is the show for you. The performance is on Wednesday, 15th December, at 6:30pm, at Pentrebach Cricket Club. Tickets cost £4 or £2 for concessions. For further information contact Bethan Thomas at Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association; bthomas@mtha.org.uk or 01685 352839.

Christmas Crafts
Family Christmas craft workshop will take place, with a visit from Santa Clause himself on Saturday, 18th December from 11am until 12pm, 12:30pm until 1:30 and 2pm until 3pm at Canolfan Cyfarthfa, the new visitor centre in Cyfarthfa Park. The cost of a session will be £3 per child. Booking is essential. To book a place phone Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery on 01685 723112 or email museum@merthyr.gov.uk

Merthyr Aloud
Merthyr Aloud meets every Thursday from 1-3 pm. No experience is necessary, everyone is welcome to a warm and friendly atmosphere where songs from different musical traditions are taught by ear. For more details, please contact Natural Voice Practitioner Heather Murray on 01443 690289

Noson gwis Nadolig, lluniaeth a 22/12/2010 389

2010-12-01T16:30:00.002Z

Menter Merthyr Tudful

Digwyddiad i chi:

Dydd Mercher 22/12/2010 Am: 8.00yh

Yn: Gwesty'r Imperial, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UH.

Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful.
Noson gwis Nadolig, lluniaeth a llawer o hwyl!

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Could you be Billy?

2010-11-30T12:45:00.000Z

The search is on throughout South Wales to find talented singers, actors and dancers to take part in a breath taking production by of Billy Elliot by award winning Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd.

Following the enormous success of the Billy Youth Theatre 2010, the producers of Billy Elliot the Musical are delighted to announce that Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd from Aberdare, South Wales have been chosen to participate in the second year of the countrywide scheme offering schools and youth groups the opportunity to stage their own production of this internationally award-winning show.

Auditions will take place Monday 13th December between 17:00-20:00 followed by a workshop day on Sunday 19th December.

Audition Pack and to register your place can be made by visiting http://www.retroacademy.co.uk/ or by calling Kieron Gough on 07949886556.

Billy Elliot writer Lee Hall, together with Martin Koch (Musical Supervision and Orchestrations), have adapted their original script and orchestrations to produce a shortened version of the show exclusively for groups staging local productions as part of the project. Billy Youth Theatre 2011 will involve participants from schools and established youth groups in England, Scotland and Wales, and to performers aged 10-19 years.

Musical Director for Retro, Kieron Gough said

“ This is an incredibly exciting time for Retro and young people across South Wales. We have been very fortunate to have secured a performance licence for Billy Elliot. I applied for the performance rights back in October, in which we had to submit reasons why we felt Retro deserved to put on such a prestigious production.”

With over 3,000 young people taking part in separate productions being staged across the country from Perth to Poole, Billy Youth Theatre is truly a nationwide event. Retro Academy For Performing Arts Ltd from Aberdare are delighted to announce that they will be performing their Billy Youth Theatre production at the Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare in July 2012.

As part of Billy Youth Theatre, the teams behind selected versions of Billy Elliot from around the country will be invited to perform excerpts from their productions at showcases held at major regional theatres between April and June 2011.

This will culminate with some groups being offered the opportunity to follow in the steps of Billy and perform at the Billy Youth Theatre West End Gala at the Victoria Palace Theatre, Billy’s London home, in July 2011.

Taith Siopa Nadolig i Gaerfaddon 04/12/2010 389

2010-11-30T12:39:00.001Z

n	Menter Merthyr Tudful

Digwyddiad i chi:

Dydd Sadwrn 04/12/2010 Am: 8yb

Yn: Ysgol Rhydywaun

Cyfeillion Rhydywaun
Taith Siopa Nadolig i Gaerfaddon

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

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NEW.i.D

2010-11-24T15:44:00.004Z

Celf ar y Blaen
A chithaun meddwl eich wedi gweld eich adenydd tylwyth teg am y tro diwethaf ...
Maen dda gan Celf ar y Blaen eich hysbysu fod y recordiad DVD o berfformiad byw NEW.i.D. a rhaglen ddogfennol y cast bellach yn barod. Hoffem eich gwahodd chi i fynychu dangosiad cyntaf y ffilm am 7pm yn Sefydliad Glowyr Llanhiledd ddydd Llun 29 Tachwedd 2010.
Byddem yn falch iawn ich gweld chi yn y digwyddiad yma. Cysylltwch ni os gwelwch yn dda ar 01495 357816 / info@head4arts.org.uk i ddweud os medrech fod yn bresennol.
Dylid nodi y dylai pob person ifanc dan 16 oed fod yng nghwmni arweinydd grwp/rhiant neu warcheidwad.

Head for Arts
Just when you thought you had seen the last of your fairy wings... Head for Arts are pleased to inform you that the DVD recording of the live performance of NEW.i.D and the cast documentary is now complete. We would like to invite you and your group to attend the premier screening of this film at 7pm in Llanhilleth Miners Institute on Monday 29th November 2010.
We would be delighted to see you and your group at this event. Please could you contact us on 01495 357816 / info@head4arts.org.uk to indicate whether you are able to attend.
Please note, all young people under the age of sixteen should be accompanied by a group leader / parent or guardian.

Merthyr Express column

2010-11-24T15:31:00.000Z

2nd Dec 10

Christmas Story Machine

Next Wednesday The Pant and Dowlais Boys and Girls Club will be bringing an hilarious family fun performance by The Black Sheep to Merthyr Tydfil. Professor Bumm's Christmas Story Machine comes to Dowlais Engine House on Wednesday 8th December. The comic tale tells the story of the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring except for Professor Ivor Harry Bumm and Doctor Willy P Whee, who are frantically trying to get their Story Machine to work. The mad professors have a festive show full of mayhem, mirth and (possibly) mistletoe. Featuring carol singing, an improvised pantomime, the world's grottiest grotto and an exploding duck. Professor Bumm's Christmas Story Machine won’t be a Silent Night! The performance starts at 1pm, entry is £3 or £2 concessions for OAPs and children. For further information, please contact 01685 375318.

Festive Workshop
A festive workshop for adults will be held at Canolfan Cyfarthfa, the new visitor centre in Cyfarthfa Park, this Saturday, 4th December from 12pm until 3pm. Come along and learn the craft of felt making by making your very own felt Christmas decorations. Sessions cost £3 per person and booking is essential. For further information contact Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery on 01685 723112 or email museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Make A Bird-Box
If you love seeing robins and other native wild birds in your garden or local park and you’d like to help them out this winter, why not come along and make a bird-box and/or feeder for your garden this Sunday, 5th December. All Ages Welcome and no booking is necessary, turn up at any time from 10am until 3pm. Materials and assistance will be provided free of charge. The event takes place at Cyfarthfa Park Wildlife Garden, which is located near the park offices, accessed via the Gwaelod-y-garth Road entrance. Alternatively, the garden is a 10 minute walk from the main Cyfarthfa Castle car-park: Ask for directions at reception. For further information please contact Carys at carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk or 01685 726251

Book Launch
Heolgerrig author and poet Mike Jenkins will be launching his new book "Moor Music" next Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm in the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais. Moor Music is a collection of open field poetry, published by Seren. In this innovative new book of poetry Mike Jenkins continues his life-long obsession with the history and fate of Wales, embodied, in this instance by both the glories of the landscape and the depredations suffered by the old industrial valleys in their years of decline. In contrast, his career in teaching left him with a sense of optimism about young people, about the prospect of change and with an eagerness to embrace changing times. These poems, like his prize-winning short stories, are full of colourful characters, dialogue, and incident. His sensitive awareness of the natural world, or what is available of the natural world in an urban context, is also frequently poingnant.
The evening is free entry and will also include an Open Mic session, where contributors are welcome to come and read, sing or perform. MTCBC & Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Ymunwch â chriw Cymraeg am sgwrs Wythnosol 389

2010-11-22T13:00:00.002Z

Menter Merthyr Tudful

Digwyddiad i chi:

Dydd Mawrth Wythnosol Am: 8.00yh

Yn: Hollybush, Nelson

Menter Merthyr
Ymunwch â chriw Cymraeg am sgwrs anffurfiol dros beint yn y Hollybush, Nelson pob nos Fawrth o 8 o'r gloch ymlaen.
Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176
Croeso cynnes i bawb ymuno! Am fwy o fanylion cysylltwch â Lis ar 01685-722176

Am fwy o wybodaeth am Menter Merthyr Tudful edrychwch ar ein gwefan
http://www.merthyrtudful.com

e-chlysur

Ffair Nadolig ac Ocsiwn Hwyl a 01/12/2010 389

2010-11-22T12:55:00.002Z

Menter Merthyr Tudful

Digwyddiad i chi:

Dydd Mercher 01/12/2010 Am: 5yp

Yn: Ysgol Rhydywaun

Ysgol Rhydwaun
Ffair Nadolig ac Ocsiwn

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Gallwch weld yr holl wybodaeth a'r poster yma > Cliciwch
Hwyl a sbri i bawb yn y teulu
Mynediad £2 (£1 i ddisgyblion)

Information for you:

On: Wednesday 01/12/2010 Time: 5yp

At: Ysgol Rhydwaun

Ysgol Rhydwaun
Christmas Fair and Auction Fun for all the Family
Entrance £2 (£1 for pupils)
For further information contact Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

You can see all the information and the poster here> Click
You may have to right click above to download the poster

Cyfle i ymweld â Siop y Ganolfan 04/12/2010 389

2010-11-22T12:50:00.003Z

Menter Merthyr Tudful

Digwyddiad i chi:

Dydd Sadwrn 04/12/2010 Am: 10yb - 4 yp

Yn: Canolfan y Wallich, Heol y Gadeirlan, Caerdydd.

Siop y Ganolfan
Cyfle i ymweld â Siop y Ganolfan yng Nghaerdydd

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176
Ffair Lyfrau Cymdeithas Bob Owen
Llyfrau, Cardiau Elusennol, Mân Greiriau, Recordiau a Cdau
Canolfan y Wallich, Heol y Gadeirlan, Caerdydd.
Sadwrn 4 Rhagfyr 2010
10 am - 4 pm
Mynediad £1.50
Am fwy o fanylion cysylltwch ar 01678 540652 neu ar tanycastell@yahoo.com

e-chlysur

Merthyr Express column

2010-11-19T12:57:00.002Z

25th Nov 10

Craft Market

This Saturday, 27th November, Santa Clause and his real reindeers come to Merthyr Tydfil town centre’s Craft Market from 10am at the Lower High Street. Entry to see Santa is £3 per child where children can tell him what they would like for Christmas, get a little gift, a wallet size photograph with Santa and the opportunity to see and stroke the reindeers. There is no pre-booking for this event, which operates on a first come, first served basis. Please expect to queue for this event as Santa takes time with each child, so they fully enjoy their experience. There will be no admittance to the queue after 3.30pm. While visiting Santa and his Reindeers, why not visit the Craft Market in the town centre, where you could find some of those special gifts for Christmas.

Artists Wanted

A new media company in south Wales is working with artists to develop new and innovative ways to promote their clients' products and services. Altern8media Ltd are searching for quality artists with progressive techniques and ideas to join their artistic crowd for possible future collaborations. For further information visit http://www.altern8media.co.uk/, where you can see examples of previous work and where you can register as an artist interested in future commissions.

Cyfarthfa Christmas
A series of festive workshops will be held at Canolfan Cyfarthfa, the new visitor centre in Cyfarthfa Park. On Saturday 4th December from 12pm until 3pm, there will be a craft of felt making workshop for adults where you can learn the craft by making your very own felt Christmas decorations. Then on Saturday, 18th December from 11am until 12pm, 12:30pm until 1:30 and 2pm until 3pm there will be a Family Christmas craft workshop for all ages, with a visit from Santa Clause! Each session cost £3 per person and booking is essential. For further information contact Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery on 01685 723112 or email museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Dick Whittington
The Owen Money Theatre Company visit The Muni Arts Centre in Pontypridd in December for a production of Dick Whittington starring Owen Money as Billy. Join Dick and his famous feline friend, on their wondrous adventures which take them from the Gloucester countryside, to the high seas, to mystical islands and ancient treasure. But watch out f the rotten revolting rodent, King Rat he is pantomime’s most evil villain. Can Dick defeat King Rat? Can he find the treasure and win the hand of his one true love? There is only one way to find out; visit the Muni for one of the most exciting pantomime adventures featuring all the ingredients you have come to know and love, from their traditional panto - marvellous music, cracking costumes, fun, laughter and loads of audience participation. The show runs from 14th until 28th December, performance times vary, please check with Box Office on 08000 147 111. Ticket prices are £13.50 with concessions at £9.50 or a family ticket for £40.00

Meeting/Cyfarfod 26/10/10

2010-11-16T16:17:00.001Z

MEETING

5.30 - 7pm
26th October 2010
Soar Centre

Please note: These minutes are draft only and subject to agreement at the next meeting.
Sylwer: Drafft yn unig yw'r cofnodion yma ac yn amodol ar gytundeb yn y cyfarfod nesaf.

1. Present: Rhian Prosser (Town Centre Manager/MTCBC), Nick Beasley (Audiences Wales), Gus Payne (Arts Development Officer/MTCBC), Lis McLean (Menter Iaith), Jo Richards (Dance Practitioner/MT College), David Jones (H4A), Wendy Marshallsea (Dowlais Engine House)
Apologies: Dinah Pye, Alison Harris (VAMT), Karen Dusgate (MTHA).

2. Soar Arts Centre / Y Ganolfan Gymraeg tour. LM took the group on a tour of the work completed to date at Soar and the Canolfan, explaining where different office, meeting, workshop and performance space will be. The group were impressed with the developments and look forward to seeing the completed work in the New Year.
A management Committee has now been appointed for the Soar Project.

3. Marketing training opportunity (Audiences Wales): NB talked the group through two workshop/sessions he could deliver for the ACMF as part of the funding already agreed with MTCBC: 1) An Introduction to Marketing and Publicity Workshop, and 2) Audience Development and Marketing Planning Workshop.
LM expressed a strong interest in a session similar to the second option for some members of the new Management Committee for Soar Arts Centre. NB was happy to adapt a session and deliver something more tailored to the needs of the group.
It was agreed to run a session, sometime in the New Year, with an emphasis on engaging new people and sharing audience information.
JR suggested, in addition to ACMF and Soar Management Committee members, there may also be interest from a new company set up by MT College staff (Andrew Thomas, Chris Ford and Richard Davies).Action: GP to liaise with NB and LM to discuss suitable date for the Sharing and Caring Knowledge session. Also to contact the new company set up in the college.

4. Pontmorlais Heritage Quarter (Town Centre Manager): RP updated the group on the new THI (Townscape Heritage Initiative) developments for Pontmorlais (Heritage Quarter).

2008 a Built Heritage Strategy was developed, identifying Pontmorlais as conservation area (using traditional materials for renovation works etc.). The strategy also recommended that Heritage Lottery funding was secured to develop a Townscape Heritage Initiative in the area.
Funding has been secured from the Heritage Lottery Fund, to give up to 75% for external renovation work within the Pontmorlais area. The project is called Pontmorlais Heritage Quarter and will last for the next five years.
The initiative also seeks to improve access to and highlight the Trevithick Trail as it passes through Pontmorlais.
There are plans to brighten the Pontmorlais promenade area with community mural art-work
The Castle Cinema is to be demolished with separate funding, and new building is set to replace this along with a small public square.
Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association has put in a Planning Application to develop the Old Town Hall into an Arts Centre, managed by Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre.

In addition to capital works, the project will:

provide some training on conservation skills,
produce a book, recording memories and the history of Pontmorlais,
has some funds available for events in the area

Action: An officer to lead this project is now in post, Russell Shurmer, who will attend the next ACMF meeting to develop links with the group.

5. Updates:

Global Village workshops: GP has asked the Arts Council of Wales for an application form for workshops leading up to the next Global Village festival. Anyone wishing to be part of this process should contact GP before the application is made.
Merthyr Aloud: GP highlighted the poster for Voice Workshops, passed on from Heather Murray. The group now meet at the Canolfan. LM and others expressed how impressed they are with the work being produced by HM and the Merthyr Aloud group.
Zoom Cymru: The next Zoom Film Festival will be returning to Merthyr Tydfil during early March 2011. As part of the project Zoom are offering groups the opportunity to “Make a Film”, with a story session, a day’s shooting and a day’s editing, including use of cutting edge video production equipment, all at an introductory price of £999 in total. (Please see attached poster.). For further info contact Matt on 02920 885505 or matt@zoomcymru.com.
Dowlais Engine House: WM updated the group on a new £25k HLF project at the Engine House; Iron into Gold, which will be a multi-generational project, including a research element and workshops in a number of subjects, all culminating in a performance. Monster Art (for ages 8-15) at the Engine House has also been very popular.

6. Next meeting: 5:30pm, Tuesday 18th January, VAMT.

Merthyr Express column

2010-11-10T17:21:00.001Z

18th Nov 10

Christmas Lights
This year’s Christmas lighting ceremony starts at 5pm tomorrow, Friday 19th November, with the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil and a very special guest, the world-renowned fashion designer, from Merthyr Tydfil; Julian McDonald, together with performances and entertainment. Following the switching on of the Christmas street lighting, a Lantern Procession will pass from the Civic Centre, through Merthyr Tydfil High Street, lit by lanterns made by children from the five local junior schools, led by Welsh Pipers through the Town Centre. A bilingual evening of Christmas carol singing and the accompaniment of Merthyr Aloud Choir, with local school children will take place firstly outside WHSmith’s on the High Street, before continuing down to the Lucy Thomas Fountain, for more carols to conclude the evening. The activity is a partnership between Town and Park Communities First, Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg and MTCBC Arts, Regeneration and Leisure Deptments.

Festive Family Fun

In the run up to Christmas two community projects will be bringing some professional festive entertainment to their communities in collaboration with the Arts Council’s Night Out Scheme and MTCBC Arts. The Pant and Dowlais Boys and Girls Club will be bringing an hilarious family fun performance by The Black Sheep to Merthyr Tydfil. Professor Bumm's Christmas Story Machine comes to Dowlais Engine House on Wednesday 8th December. The mad professors; Professor Ivor Harry Bumm and Doctor Willy P Whee, have a festive show full of mayhem, mirth and (possibly) mistletoe. Featuring carol singing, improvised pantomime, the world's grottiest grotto and an exploding duck. The performance starts at 1pm, entry is £3 or £2 concessions for OAPs and children. For further information, please contact 01685 375318. Also, the following week, on Wednesday, 15th December, at 6:30pm Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association bring A Feast of Festive Fun by Clwyd Theatr Cymru Theatre for Young People, to Pentrebach Cricket Club. A Feast of Festive Fun is a show by award winning director and writer Tim Baker, to get the whole family in a party mood. If you enjoy great storytelling, live music and something a bit special, this is the show for you. For further information contact Bethan Thomas at bthomas@mtha.org.uk or 01685 352839.

Craft Market and Santa with Reindeer
On Saturday 27th November Merthyr Tydfil town centre welcomes a Craft Market, ideal for those special gifts for Christmas. Santa Clause and his Real Reindeer will also be there as they prepare for Christmas from 10am at the Lower High Street. Entry to see Santa is £3 each where children can tell him what they would like for Christmas, get a little gift, a wallet size photograph with Santa and the opportunity to see and stroke the reindeers. There is no pre-booking for this event, which operates on a first come, first served basis. Please expect to queue for this event as Santa takes time with each child, so they fully enjoy their experience. There will be no admittance to the queue after 3.30pm.

Poems and Pints
Workers’ Educational Association Merthyr Branch are holding a Poems and Pints night at the Guest Club in Dowlais tonight, Thursday, 18th November 2010. The evening starts at 7.30pm, where you can bring your favourite poem to read or just come to listen and enjoy the evening. There will also be a buffet and bar. Tickets cost £5 from: Ceinwen Statter 21 Llwyn yr Eos Grove, Bradley Gardens, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0GD. Cheques payable to Merthyr WEA Please enclose SAE.

Merthyr Express column

2010-11-03T16:56:00.000Z

11th Nov 10

Christmas Lights

This year’s Christmas lighting ceremony on Friday 19th November, starts at 5pm, with the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil and a very special guest, together with performances and entertainment. Following the switching on of the Christmas street lighting, a Lantern Procession will pass from the Civic Centre, through Merthyr Tydfil High Street, lit by lanterns made by children from the five local junior schools, led by Welsh Pipers through the Town Centre. A bilingual evening of Christmas carol singing and the accompaniment of Merthyr Aloud Choir, with local school children will sing firstly outside WHSmith’s on the High Street, before continuing down to the Lucy Thomas Fountain, for more carols to conclude the evening. The activity is a partnership between Town and Park Communities First, Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg and MTCBC Arts, Regeneration and Leisure Deptments.

WEA Night
Workers’ Educational Association Merthyr Branch are holding a Poems and Pints night at the Guest Club in Dowlais, next Thursday, 18th November 2010. The evening starts at 7.30pm, where you can bring your favourite poem to read or just come to listen and enjoy the evening. There will also be a buffet and bar. Tickets cost £5 from: Ceinwen Statter 21 Llwyn yr Eos Grove, Bradley Gardens, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0GD. Cheques payable to Merthyr WEA Please enclose SAE.

Classic Theatre

London Classic Theatre present The Caretaker by Harold Pinter, visiting the Heads of The Valleys region, tomorrow night, Friday 12th November, at the Coliseum Theatre Aberdare.

The story tells the tale of Davies, an elderly drifter, given shelter by the kindly but vulnerable Aston. He quickly makes himself at home in the squalid, junk-filled attic, but an uneasy peace is fractured by the arrival of Mick, Aston’s quick-witted, streetwise younger brother. As the shadows lengthen and the three men reveal more about the past and themselves, a battle of wits begins that will have irrevocable consequences for them all. A landmark of twentieth century theatre, Pinter’s compelling study of loneliness and power games still has the capacity to amuse, shock and fascinate. Tickets cost £12 or £10 for concessions. Call 08000 147 111 to book. Recommended for ages 14 and over. Starts at 7.30pm

Youth Opera DeadlineThe closing date for applications to Welsh National Youth Opera is tomorrow, Friday 12th November 2010. Welsh National Youth Opera (WNYO) is on the lookout for talented young singers aged between 16 and 25 from across Wales to join their innovative and critically acclaimed company. Auditions will be held in five locations across Wales, including Cardiff, on 24th, 25th and 26 November 2010. For further information visit WNO's website wno.org.uk and click on 'Get Involved' where audition application packs can be downloaded. Anyone without access to the internet should contact Sarah Teagle on 029 2063 5085 / 07866 819125 or email sarah.teagle@wno.org.uk for more information.

Straight Lines, Indie-Go Modem, Moments From Landing and The Coolunt

2010-11-03T12:29:00.001Z

No alcohol show, specifically aimed at young people.

Sioe dim alcohol yn amcanu at pobl ifanc yn bendant.

Merthyr Express column

2010-11-02T13:07:00.000Z

4th Nov 10

World Music Performance

Internationally acclaimed world music group Siyaya come to Merthyr Tydfil next month.

Siyaya (pronounced “see-yaye-yah meaning “we are on the move”) are a nine-strong perfoming arts group from Zimbabwe. Siyaya celebrate the greatest African instrument, the human voice. Colourful, and energetic, Siyaya compliment lively dances and liquid tones with superb percussion rhythms and the sweet acapella harmonies exploring the rich cultures and traditions of Africa. Siyaya deliver a truly unique music, song and dance performance. Exciting and up-lifting, they consist of male and female singers, dancers and musicians. A vibrant fusion of the traditional and the modern. One of Zimbabwe's leading song and dance theatre companies, they have performed extensively in Africa, Germany and the UK including two lengthy appearances at the Edinburgh Fringe. They also perform reguarly at WOMAD, Glastonbury and Sidmouth festivals.

Siyaya will be performing on Wednesday, 10th November, at 7pm at Bishop Hedley High School, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 9AN. Entrance is only £3, with a concessional rate of £2 for OAPs and Children. For further information contact: Lee Davies (3Gs Development Trust) on 01685 352982 or lee.davies@3gs.org.uk. To listen or watch Siyaya live visit: www.myspace.com/siyaya or www.siyaya-arts.com. Event supported by Night Out and MTCBC Arts.

Merthyr’s Got Talent

The Merthyr’s Got Talent showcase takes place tonight, Thursday 4th November at the Myfanwy Theatre in Merthyr Tydfil College. Judges at the auditions said that “the quality of performance is improving year on year, with some extremely talented young people taking part in this year’s event”. Performances this year cover three main categories: Popular Music, Songs From The Musicals and Dance. Doors open at 6pm. Entry by ticket only. For more information about tickets please contact Lee Davies on 01685 353420 / lee.davies@3gs.org.uk or Lisa Bruford on 01443 410841 / Lisa.Bruford@merthyr.gov.uk.

Open Mic Night

Tonight’s (Thursday, 4th November) Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais welcomes Greek author from Cornwall, Alexis Lykiard. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC in partnership with Academi. Anyone wanting to read or perform can just come along on the night, where they’ll be scheduled in. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Singer Songwriter

The Chloe Hall Trio come to the Heads of The Valleys tomorrow night. Chloe Hall is a woman at the top of her profession. This singer/songwriter makes you laugh, cry, sigh and dream. She’s a treasure to file alongside Joni Mitchell, Nanci Griffith and Paul Simon. Touring in her native Australia since her teens, Chloe’s neverending world tour finally hits the UK with the release of her new album, ’Outside’. Chloe is an engaging, intriguing and charismatic performer but it’s the simple undeniable quality of her songs that leaves the listener overwhelmingly satisfied to the emotional core. The Chloe Hall Trio will be performing at the Beaufort Theatre, Beafort Hill, Ebbw Vale, NP23 5QQ at 8pm - 11pm, tonight, 5th November. Tickets cost £8 on the door (£7 for Valleys Roots members). For further information please contact 01495 355 800.

Merthyr Express column

2010-10-20T15:35:00.000+01:00

28th Oct 10
Cornish Greek Poet

The next Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais welcomes Greek author from Cornwall, Alexis Lykiard on Thursday, 4th November. Lykiard was born in Athens at the start of 1940, months before the Greeks repulsed Mussolini’s Italian troops from the northern frontiers of Greece. Hitler’s more robust forces followed, beginning the German Occupation of Greece. Lykiard endured the many horrors of the Nazi Occupation and by 1945 his family had escaped to Egypt at the beginning of the the four year civil war which followed Greek liberation. To this day he is perplexed by what he describes as “the lies told me during or about my childhood, by the dearth of honest information about those years”. Lykiard has published several poetry collections and several translations, plus some non-fiction. For further information on Alexis Lykiard visit: www.alexislykiard.com. Open Mic Nights are free entry, supported by MTCBC in partnership with Academi. Anyone wanting to read or perform can just come along on the night, where they’ll be scheduled in. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 or arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Halloween Pumpkin
Come along and learn how to carve out your very own Halloween pumpkin for just £1 at Enterprising Art & Business, Lower High Street, Merthyr Tydfil, tomorrow, Friday 29th October 10am to 3pm. All money raised will be in aid of Prince Charles Hospital. For more information talk to Helena Sands on 01685 376732 or Steve Smith on O7966171993.

Continental Market
One of the best Continental Markets in Europe; Team Fantastique are in Merthyr Tydfil town centre from today, Thursday 28th, until Saturday 30th October, from 9am until 5.30pm at High Street and Lower High Street. The Continental Market is now in its fifth successful year, continuing to bring to towns and city centres a true taste of French Market Shopping. Their mobile boulangerie fills the air with the smell of freshly baked baguettes and croissants, they have a saucisson stall with its hot selection of Toulouse and Merguez sausages, Tartiflette and fresh cooked Paella, along with a magnificent selection of cheeses, dried sausages, seasonal fruit and vegetables and sweets and crepes. There is also a good selection of wooden toys and games on offer, Moroccan gifts and cashmere sweaters and a very fine range of costume jewellery from around the world, including a new range from Paris! Enjoy all the excitement of a true, 100% French Market!

2011 Calendar
Next year’s Merthyr Tydfil Calendar celebrates some of the creative talents of the borough, using the theme Poems and Pictures, featuring the work of some of the many Merthyr Tydfil artists and poets, including poetry by the award winning author Mike Jenkins, novelist, biographer and poet Anthony Bunko, Maggie Pryce Jones, Margaret Lloyd and Bernard Harrington, together with a host of other worthy poets. The images come courtesy of, amoung others, celebrated artists Robert Alwyn Hughes and Ron Jones, illustrating the strong bond both artists still have with the place where they spent their formative years (Dowlais and Aberfan respectivley), plus the work of many other painters, photographers and an embroiderer all of whom give us a colourful picture of Merthyr Tydfil borough over the years. The 2011 calendar is available now for £2.95 from central library.

Talent Showcase
The Merthyr’s Got Talent showcase takes place next Thursday 4th November at the Myfanwy Theatre in Merthyr Tydfil College. Doors open at 6pm. Entry by ticket only. For more information about tickets contact Lee Davies on 01685 353420 lee.davies@3gs.org.uk or Lisa Bruford on 01443 410841 Lisa.Bruford@merthyr.gov.uk.

Merthyr Express column

2010-10-15T13:11:00.000+01:00

21st Oct 10

Christmas Kids Show

In the run up to Christmas The Pant and Dowlais Boys and Girls Club will be bringing an hilarious family fun performance by The Black Sheep to Merthyr Tydfil. Professor Bumm's Christmas Story Machine comes to Dowlais Engine House on Wednesday 8th December. The comic tale tells the story of the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring except for Professor Ivor Harry Bumm and Doctor Willy P Whee, who are frantically trying to get their Story Machine to work. The mad professors have a festive show full of mayhem, mirth and (possibly) mistletoe. Featuring carol singing, an improvised pantomime, the world's grottiest grotto and an exploding duck. Professor Bumm's Christmas Story Machine won’t be a Silent Night! The performance starts at 1pm, entry is £3 or £2 concessions for OAPs and children. For further information, please contact 01685 375318.

Wild Walk
Come and learn about bio-diversity and local wild plants and food on your door step, while also exercising your body and brushing up on Welsh language skills with the Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful, who will be holding a Wild Plants Walk, through the medium of Welsh this Saturday, 23rd October. The walk will take approximatley two hours, starting from Cefn Coed Community Centre at 10am. Wear appropriate shoes/boots remember that parts of the trip could be muddy. For further information, please contact Jamie on 01685 722176 or jamie@merthyrtudful.com

Peter Karrie
Peter Karrie will be performing in concert at the Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale next week on 28th October. Peter will be performing his new 2011 concert with numbers from his new album ’My Funny Old Lovely Old Wales’. Featuring ’The Millionaire’s Quiz’ and new special guest artists, it promises to be a magical night. The night starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £12.00 on the door (£10.00 concessions). For further information, please contact: 01495 355 800.

Merthyr’s Got Talent
The Merthyr’s Got Talent showcase takes place on Thursday 4th November at the Myfanwy Theatre in Merthyr Tydfil College. Doors open at 6pm. Entry by ticket only. For more information about tickets or the auditions contact Lee Davies on 01685 353420/lee.davies@3gs.org.uk orLisa Bruford on 01443 410841/Lisa.Bruford@merthyr.gov.uk

Chris Addison
Coliseum Theatre Aberdare welcomes Chris Addison from Bafta Award-winning comedy The Thick of It, In The Loop, Skins and Lab Rats is back with a brand new show of his critically acclaimed stand-up tomorrow, Friday, 22nd October. The show is for over 18s only and starts at 8.00pm. For further information and ticket booking contact 08000 147 111. Tickets cost £17.50.

Merthyr Express column

2010-10-07T10:38:00.004+01:00

14th Oct 10

Open Mic Night

Tonight author Maggie Harris will be the guest at the Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel. Entry is free. For further details, please contact: 01685 725382 / arts@merthyr.gov.uk

Variations School of Dance
A new school of dance is coming to Merthyr Tydfil this term. Variations School of Dance offers fully qualified tuition in the Royal Academy of Dance Ballet syllabus and Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance Modern Theatre and Tap Dance. Leading the school is professionally qualified Mrs Charmian Thomas LRAD ARAD AISTD ALAM BA who trained at the Royal Academy of Dance and is guest lecturer to several dance organisations including The Royal Ballet School and the University of Wales Dance Degree programme. Mrs Thomas specialises in small classes focusing on the inividual needs of each pupil, with former students having progressed to leading London vocational schools including The Royal Ballet School and have performed in international ballet companies and the West End of London. For further details please contact Mrs Charmian Thomas on 07780 870958 or email charmianthomas1@yahoo.co.uk

Merthyr Aloud

Merthyr Aloud is a Community Choir. All are welcome to go along to their drop in voice workshops with Natural Voice Practitioner Heather Murray. You can learn some beautiful harmonies from different musical traditions. No experience needed. All songs taught by ear. Improve your health, meet new people, and have lots of fun. The group meet on Fridays 10.30 – 12.30 at the Canolfan Gymraeg, Soar Hall, Pontmorlais. Sessions cost £1 per person. For more information or to book call Clare at Glamorgan Gates on: 01685 729940

Musical Team
Following a very successful summer concert, members of the mixed choir, which was formed for the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale, are hoping to continue singing together. They are therefore looking for a suitable musical team (Musical Director and Accompanist) to help them achieve their aims. It is the choir’s ambition to sing no more than 2 concerts a year, the main one being a classical work during the summer months. It is also hoped to continue the choir’s links with the Welsh language through the choice of repertoire and by using some basic Welsh phrases in rehearsals. Rehearsals will be once a week on a Monday evening in Lower Beaufort Welfare Hall, Ebbw Vale and Interested parties should send a covering letter and CV to carys.wynne@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk or call 01495 322510 for an informal chat.

Merthyr’s Got Talent

Merthyr’s Got Talent is an event open to young people aged between 11 and 25. Auditions have now ended with some great performances lined up for the Merthyr’s Got Talent showcase, which takes place on Thursday 4th November at the Myfanwy Theatre in Merthyr Tydfil College. Doors open at 6pm. Entry by ticket only. For more information about tickets or the auditions contact Lee Davies on 01685 353420/lee.davies@3gs.org.uk or Lisa Bruford on 01443 410841/Lisa.Bruford@merthyr.gov.uk

Cyfleoedd Swyddi / Job Opportunities

2010-10-06T14:47:00.003+01:00

Prosiect Soar

Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful

2 Swydd Llawn Amser

Swyddog Maes £19,000 (Cefnogir gan Bwrdd yr Iaith Gymraeg)

Rhywun egnïol a brwdfrydig i weithio’n aelod o dîm Prosiect Soar a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful i hyrwyddo’r Gymraeg o fewn y Bwrdeistref.

Swyddog Treftadaeth £20,000 (Cefnogir gan Cronfa’r Loteri Treftadaeth)

Rhywun i weithio’n ddwyieithog gyda chymuned Merthyr Tudful i godi ymwybyddiaeth am dreftadaeth leol a’i chysylltiad â’r iaith Gymraeg.

Am fanylion pellach a ffurflen gais cysylltwch â Lisbeth McLean
Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful, Neuadd Soar, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful CF47 8UB
01685-722176/ lis@merthyrtudful.com

Dyddiad Cau 22 Hydref 2010. Cynhelir cyfweliadau 2-3 Tachwedd 2010.

Merthyr Express column

2010-10-01T09:10:00.000+01:00

7th October 10
Sun Exhibition

Throughout October Cyfarthfa Castle will be showing a colourful exhibition of the latest work from the Rhymney born artist, Neil Carroll in a show titled “Here Comes the Sun”. The exhibition is a touring show which represented Wales at this yera’s International Celtic Festival “InterCeltique” at Lorient, Brittany in August. For further details please contact 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Just Dance
Merthyr Tydfil Dance Festival is coming to Troedyrhiw on Wednesday, 20th October at the Willows Centre. The Just Dance festival will feature dancers from various parts of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough, all coming together to celebrate and enjoy an energetic, artform, with great health benefits. Refreshments and drinks will be available. Entry for spectators is only £1.50 For more information contact The Willows Centre, Troedyrhiw on 01443 692198, or visit the reception desk.

Who’s Got Talent?
It’s Talent season! Together with Merthyr’s Got Talent, which has just finished auditions before the main showcase on Thursday 4th November, Retro Academy For Performing Arts is also hosting Have You Got Talent 2. Retro are searching for the hottest talent across south Wales and invite participants and audience to come and join them this Friday, 8th October at 7.30pm in Abercwmboi Rugby Club. Any talent is considered, with a free public vote and a quiz. Winners receive a year’s free membership to Retro, plus a cash prize. Last year the majority of entrants came from the Merthyr Tydfil Borough, including first prize winner Zoe Sears. Entry is £5 per participant or £4 for audience tickets. For further information please contact 01685 884 657 or 07949 886 556.

World Music Performance
Internationally acclaimed world music group Siyaya come to Merthyr Tydfil next month.
Siyaya (pronounced “see-yaye-yah meaning “we are on the move”) are a nine-strong perfoming arts group from Zimbabwe. Siyaya celebrate the greatest African instrument, the human voice. Colourful, and energetic, Siyaya compliment lively dances and liquid tones with superb percussion rhythms and the sweet acapella harmonies exploring the rich cultures and traditions of Africa. Siyaya deliver a truly unique music, song and dance performance. Exciting and up-lifting, they consist of male and female singers, dancers and musicians. A vibrant fusion of the traditional and the modern. One of Zimbabwe's leading song and dance theatre companies, they have performed extensively in Africa, Germany and the UK including two lengthy appearances at the Edinburgh Fringe. They also perform reguarly at WOMAD, Glastonbury and Sidmouth festivals.
Siyaya will be performing on Wednesday, 10th November, at 7pm at Bishop Hedley High School, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 9AN. Entrance is only £3, with a concessional rate of £2 for OAPs and Children. For further information contact: Lee Davies (3Gs Development Trust) on 01685 352982 or lee.davies@3gs.org.uk. To listen or watch Siyaya live visit: www.myspace.com/siyaya or www.siyaya-arts.com. Event supported by Night Out and MTCBC Arts.

Merthyr Express column

2010-09-23T10:31:00.002+01:00

30th Sept 10

Variations School of Dance
A new school of dance is coming to Merthyr Tydfil this term. Variations School of Dance offers fully qualified tuition in the Royal Academy of Dance Ballet syllabus and Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance Modern Theatre and Tap Dance. Leading the school is professionally qualified Mrs Charmian Thomas LRAD ARAD AISTD ALAM BA who trained at the Royal Academy of Dance and is guest lecturer to several dance organisations including The Royal Ballet School and the University of Wales Dance Degree programme. Mrs Thomas specialises in small classes focusing on the inividual needs of each pupil, with former students having progressed to leading London vocational schools including The Royal Ballet School and have performed in international ballet companies and the West End of London. For further details please contact Mrs Charmian Thomas on 07780 870958 or email charmianthomas1@yahoo.co.uk

Merthyr’s Got Talent

Merthyr’s Got Talent is an event open to young people aged between 11 and 25. Auditions take place on Monday 4th & Wednesday 6th October at Bishop Hedley High School at 5pm – 8pm. Singers, dancers, musicians, comedians, imressionists, ventriloquists whatever the talent is, all acts are welcome. Each act must register prior to the event! registration forms can be obtained from the contact details below, schools, youth centres or downloaded from www.merthyr.gov.uk. The showcase takes place on Thursday 4th November at the Myfanwy Theatre in Merthyr Tydfil College. Entry by ticket only. For more information about tickets or the auditions contact Lee Davies on 01685 353420 / lee.davies@3gs.org.uk or Lisa Bruford on 01443 410841 / Lisa.Bruford@merthyr.gov.uk

Merthyr Aloud
Merthyr Aloud is a Community Choir. All are welcome to go along to their drop in voice workshops with Natural Voice Practitioner Heather Murray. You can learn some beautiful harmonies from different musical traditions. No experience needed. All songs taught by ear. Improve your health, meet new people, and have lots of fun. The group meet on Fridays 10.30 – 12.30 at the Canolfan Gymraeg, Soar Hall, Pontmorlais. Sessions cost £1 per person. For more information or to book call Clare at Glamorgan Gates on: 01685 729940

Musical Team
Following a very successful summer concert, members of the mixed choir, which was formed for the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale, are hoping to continue singing together. They are therefore looking for a suitable musical team (Musical Director and Accompanist) to help them achieve their aims. It is the choir’s ambition to sing no more than 2 concerts a year, the main one being a classical work during the summer months. It is also hoped to continue the choir’s links with the Welsh language through the choice of repertoire and by using some basic Welsh phrases in rehearsals. Rehearsals will be once a week on a Monday evening in Lower Beaufort Welfare Hall, Ebbw Vale and Interested parties should send a covering letter and CV to carys.wynne@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk or call 01495 322510 for an informal chat.

Pirate Adventure
Merthyr Youth Creative Development Project welcomes Moonfleet by Angel Exit Theatre to Saint Tydfil's Well Church Hall, The Quar, Merthyr Tydfil on Monday 4th October 2010, at 7pm.
Moonfleet is a rip-roaring show for everyone with a sense of adventure aged from 8 to 108! Ticket prices are £3 with concessions at £2 for OAPs and children. For further information, contact Kristian Churchill on 07541 068812 or office@merthyryouth.co.uk.

Merthyr Express column

2010-09-16T16:10:00.001+01:00

23rd Sept 10
Family Adventure

Merthyr Youth Creative Development Project welcomes Moonfleet by Angel Exit Theatre to Saint Tydfil's Well Church Hall, The Quar, Merthyr Tydfil on Monday 4th October 2010, at 7pm.
Moonfleet tells the theatrical story of a straggling gang of mischievous buffoons who are washed up amongst the flotsam onto the wild shores of Chesil Beach, and conspire to spin this compelling yarn of a young orphan boy clashing with both smugglers and excise men in his quest to find Blackbeard’s cursed diamond and win the hand of his beloved Grace. Weaving together live music, striking physicality and puppetry, Angel Exit invite you to enter a thrilling world of dastardly deeds and wicked escapades. Inspired by J.Meade Falkner's classic novel, and Dorset folklore Moonfleet is a rip-roaring show for everyone with a sense of adventure aged from 8 to 108! Ticket prices are £3 with concessions at £2 for OAPs and children. For further information, contact Kristian Churchill on 07541 068812 or office@merthyryouth.co.uk.

Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel
This week will be your last chance to catch an exhibition of paintings by local artist Linda Morgan. The exhibition titled Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel captures images of the Cyfarthfa works and is still on show at Cyfarthfa Castle Museum until next Thursday, 30th September. The exhibition is free entry. For further details please contact 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk

Young People’s Challange
The Welsh Assembly Government are running a competition as part of their campaign to get children and young people portrayed more positively in Welsh society.
The competition challenges children and young people to become journalists and report in words, photo or video on something related to children, teenagers or young adults in school or community life. Competition entrants can submit entries both individually and as part of a group.
There are many great prizes on offer for regional winners with the overall Wales winner receiving a newly launched Apple i-Pad. Deadline Friday 8th October. To find out more on the competition please see: http://www.uncrcletsgetitright.co.uk/competition.aspx

Barkin’
From 12th to 16th October Grassroots presents Barkin’ by Frank Vickery to the Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. Barkin’ is a brand new black comedy written by and starring Frank Vickery, directed by Phil Clark. This tightly woven drama is a rich cocktail of pathos and humour, dark secrets and unrealised dreams. The story tells the tale of Stevie who has lived all her life with her domineering mother and feels trapped by the responsibility of caring for her, while her seemingly carefree brother is living life to the full. Now, has the day finally arrived when Stevie can, at last, experience the freedom she has yearned for? Or will she discover that things are not quite what they appear to be? Barkin’, Frank’s first new play in over three years is an incisive, engaging, and darkly comic drama. Using his usual humour and realism, this black comedy explores issues that many of us can certainly identify with. Performances start at 7.30pm plus a Thursday matinee at 1.00pm. Tickets cost £10.50 with concessions at £8.50. There is also the special offer of two stalls tickets for £14.00 on Tuesday evening and on the matinee performance. For further information and tickets telephone 08000 147 111.

Merthyr Express column

2010-09-09T09:37:00.000+01:00

16th Sept 10

Open Mic Night

This month’s Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel Merthyr Tydfil welcomes Gemma June Howell, tonight (Thursday, 16th September). This free event begins at 7.30pm and is sponsored by MTCBC Arts Development & Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.
Gemma June Howell grew up in Graig-Y-Rhacca, a small council estate in the Rhymney Valley. She moved to Folkestone when she was six, to Whitley Bay aged ten and back to Graig-Y-Rhacca when she was twelve years old. These experiences forged a strong awareness of the still embedded class differences which dominate British society. As a child, with her father’s encouragement, she became involved in political activism and attended Anti-Nazi League and ANC marches in London and Folkestone. Whilst studying for her A-Levels, she represented her age-group at local Labour Party meetings and was Chairwoman of the school council for two consecutive years. Her first taste of political writing was at the age of 16 when she joined the Red Poets Society for Poems and Pints, through which she frequented old men’s working clubs and pubs around the valleys to read her poetry. In 1999 she won second place at the Aber Valley Arts Competition for her poem, 'Fear of the Unknown'. Later, at Swansea University, 2002, Gemma took part in the many ‘Stop the War’ and ‘Not in My Name’ demonstrations. Whilst studying Politics & Media, she set up The Creative Writing Coalition and produced poetry magazine, Think Allowed! Since completing her Creative Writing MA two years ago she’s had excerpts from her plays broadcast and her first novel published by Hafan Books. She works as a freelance writer, events co-ordinator and promoter.

Red Poets 16
The sixteenth issue of the Red Poets annual magazine is now available for £4 (plus 90p postage = £4.90) from 7 Stryt Gerallt, Wrecsam, LL11 1EH. This year’s issue again features a number of celebrated authors from across Wales, including Merthyr poets Mike Jenkins, Alun Rees and Roy Morgan. For further information please contact info@redpoets.org

Poetry Competition
“Home is where the heart is! As a celebration for National Poetry Day 2010 “Home” is the inspiration for the Head for Arts poetry competition, with cash prizes: £100 for the winning entries in English and Welsh and £50 for the runners up. Finalists will be invited to read their poem to a panel of judges at the Poetry Party at Blackwood Miners Institute, hosted by poet Mike Church. The evening will also include an open mic slot and special guests. Each poem must be no more than fifty lines in length and on white A4 paper. All entrants must be over 18 and prepared to give a reading at Blackwood Miners Institute on Thursday evening, 6th October. The competition is open until Monday 20th September. For further information contact H4A – Head for Arts at Llanhilleth Institute, Abertillery on 01495 357816 or email: info@head4arts.org.uk. Head for Arts can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.

Eat On The Wild Side
If you’ve ever fancied getting back to basics and going on a Wild Food Hunt, then there’s an opportunity to go foraging in the woods, fields and hedgerows of Taf Fechan Nature Reserve, on a free walking Bushcraft Workshop. Dryad Bushcraft will be giving a lesson in edible herbs, fungi & fruit, and their medicinal and practical uses. Meet them at Cefn Coed Community Centre at 10am on Saturday 2nd October. Please wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a moderate (and possibly muddy) walk. Supervised children very welcome. For further information please contact Carys Solman on carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk or 01685 726251.

Dim Gobaith Caneri

2010-09-09T09:32:00.002+01:00

Exhibition coming in 2011/2012. (Poet and artist from Merthyr Tydfil.)
Arddangosfa'n dod 2011/2012. (Bardd ac arlynydd o Ferthyr Tudful)

Merthyr Express column

2010-09-02T11:54:00.001+01:00

9th Sept 10
Acoustic Evening

Menter Iaith Merthyr Tudful will be holding a Noson Acwstig (Acoustic Evening) tonight, Thursday 9th September, at the Imperial Hotel, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil. The event is open to all musicians and poets to come along and perform or to just listen to others. The session is free entry and begins at 8pm. For further information, please contact Jamie on 01685 722176 or email jamie@merthyrtudful.com.

Open Mic Night
Freelance writer, events co-ordinator, promoter and political activist Gemma June Howell will be the visiting author for this month’s Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel Merthyr Tydfil next Thursday, 16th September. The event begins at 7.30pm and is free entry, sponsoured by MTCBC Arts Development & Academi. For further information please contact: (01685) 725382 arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Zumba Fitness
Why not ditch the work out for a Zumba Dance party? Zumba fitness is a fast paced and fun mixture of Latin dance and aerobics. Sessions run on Wednesdays from 6.30 until 7.30 at Treharris Boys and Girls Club, for all ages 14+. Only £3 per session. For further information, please contact Nicola Lean on 01685 725494

Sonig Live
This Saturday (11th September) Sonig Youth Music Industry in partnership with The Muni Arts Centre presents another dose of Sonig Live, a hugely successful series of gigs featuring the very best hot new acts from the emerging Welsh music scene, supported by the Muni Young Promoters Team. Tonight’s line up includes The Guns, Straight Lines and Hey!Tonight. The night starts at 7.30pm in The Muni Arts Centre, Pontypridd. Tickets cost £6. ID will be asked for upon entry. 12 – 14 year olds MUST be accompanied by an adult over the age of 21.

Portrait and Place
Portrait and Place is an art exhibition currently showing at The Metropole Cultural and Conference Centre, Abertillery. The exhibition is the first time that married artists Ursula and David Chamberlain have exhibited jointly. The work selected for the exhibition aims to bring together work that invites the viewer to look closer or draw their own meanings from the work. Both artists have extensive experience of working in ‘the arts’: Ursula has a background in ceramics and running arts sessions in Mental Health settings, whilst David has a background in community arts and has several years experience in Arts Development. The exhibition runs until 1st October and is free entry.

Jazz at The Met
Tomorrow night (10th September) The Jim Barber Trio will also be performing The Metropole Cultural and Conference Centre, Abertillery, in the Met Bar at 8pm (Doors at 7.30). They have been performing together on a regular basis for the last three years. The band consists of Jim Barber (piano) Ashley Jon Long (bass) and Ian Poole (drums). The trio has been steadily working to offer their music to as wide an audience as possible and have performed at many of the premier jazz venues in south Wales and the West Country. Tickets for this event are only £5. For further informaton on this and other events at The Met please visit: www.the-met.co.uk or call 01495 322510.

Merthyr Express column

2010-08-13T11:51:00.001+01:00

2nd Sept 10

Arts Forum
Anyone who’d like to comment on the arts, culture or media in Merthyr Tydfil can have their say online by posting a comment on the Arts, Culture and Media Forum’s blog website: artscelf.blogspot.com. The website currently has pictures taken from the Dance Pavillion at the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale, with performances from a Valleys’ Dance project, plus 3Gs’ Kinetics and Nia Dance. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see the pictures.

Cyfarthfa Exhibitions
A series of paintings of the Cyfarthfa iron works by local artist Linda Morgan will be showing throughout September in an exhibition titled “Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel”. And welcoming in a bright end to autumn perhaps; October brings an exhibition titled “Here Comes the Sun”, featuring the latest work from the Rhymney born artist, Neil Carroll.
Contact Cyfarthfa Castle Art Gallery and Museum for details on 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Welsh Top 50

Plugged In, The Music Magazine for Wales, is searching for the top 50 albums by Welsh artists and needs as many views as possible. Maybe it’s by Lost Prophets or Stereophonics. Maybe Bullet For My Valentine or The Blackout do it for you, or does the classical tones of Katherine Jenkins or Only Men Aloud shoot them to the top of your list. Plugged In want as many opinions as possible to publish in their next issue, out in October. They hope to compile a Top 50 list and need submissions. E-mail your top five albums by different Welsh artists with a short sentence explaining why you love these albums so much, not forgetting to provide your name to Plugged in at editorial@pluggedinmagazine.co.uk. They’re not including Greatest Hits or compilations at this time, though they may make a nod towards them, only albums that you think epitomises a band’s career so far. For example, out of the four full albums that Funeral For A Friend has released it could be that Casually Dressed & Deep In Conversation is your favourite or the more melodic Tales Don’t Tell Themselves. They want to know your favourite Manic Street Preachers album, Feeder, Catatonia, The Alarm, Cerys Matthews, The Storys, MAN, Shirley Bassey, Kids In Glass Houses, GLC, Attack! Attack! or even Sir Tom Jones. Any age and any genre, it doesn’t matter. It’s the album that if someone only had enough money to buy one album by that artist you would say it had to be that one, that’s their best album. Lists must be submitted before 18th September 2010. Regular updates of the chart positions will be posted on the Plugged In MySpace and mediawales blog sites. For further info visit www.pluggedinmagazine.co.uk or www.myspace.com/pluggedinmagazine.

Life Drawing
Artists and art students get the opportunity to work from life at Gartholwg Lifelong Learning Centre for a five week series of sessions starting on Wednesday, 22nd September, then every week until 20th October, at 7pm until 9pm. The cost of the whole series is £25, or £6.50 per class for a one off attendance. All participants must be aged sixteen or over and should bring their own art materials. For further information or to book your space, please contact 01443 219589 or email info@traceyrees.co.uk or visit http://www.campwsgartholwg.org.uk/.

Merthyr Express column

2010-08-13T11:47:00.000+01:00

26th August 10

Welsh Open Mic
Tonight’s (26th August) Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel welcomes guest Ifor ap Glyn for a Welsh language event where Welsh speakers and learners welcome to come along and join in or to just listen to Ifor and anyone else who takes part. Ifor ap Glyn is a poet, born and bred in London to Welsh parents. He has been a scriptwriter for theatre and TV he now works as a TV producer. He has collaborated on a number of television co-productions, and also co-authored two trilingual theatre pieces, Frongoch and Branwen which have toured in Wales and Ireland. A keen performer of his work was part of the gala concert to mark the opening of the National Assembly in 1999. Ifor won the Crown at the 1999 National Eisteddfod with a collection of poems about the problems of learning Welsh. Ifor was Bardd Plant Cymru (Welsh-language Children’s Laureate) 2008-9. This event is free entry, in association with Menter Iaith Merthur Tudful, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council & Academi. For further information please contact (01685) 722176 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Turner Exhibition Ends
This week will be your last chance to see significant works by arguably Britain’s greatest ever painter at Cyfarthfa Castle. In an exhibition which Includes significant loans from the Tate, the work of JMW Turner will be showing at Cyfarthfa Castle until 31st August, along side one of his contemporaries, “The Welsh Turner” Merthyr Tydfil born Penry Williams.

Other exhibitions coming soon to Cyfarthfa Castle include a series of paintings of the Cyfarthfa iron works by local artist Linda Morgan, which will be showing throughout September in an exhibition titled “Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel”. And in contrast to the season perhaps; October brings an exhibition titled “Here Comes the Sun”, featuring the latest work from the Rhymney born artist, Neil Carroll. Contact Cyfarthfa Castle Art Gallery and Museum for details on 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Animals At Fountain
This Saturday (28th August) Merthyr Tydfil Town Centre welcomes a number of farm animals to the Lucy Thomas Fountain at Lower High Street. Farms 2 Ewe will be providing a mini farm which includes goats kids, who can be bottle fed by visitors during structured sessions, together with chicks, ducklings and goslings, which will be displayed in large low pens. Plus minature guinea pig and rabbit village, complete with houses. Activities are free and will be located off Court Street or at the lower end of the main pedestrian High Street.

Cyfarthfa Greenhouse Activities
There have been a number of summer activities held at Cyfathfa Grerenhouses, Cyfarthfa Park this summer. Activities end today (26th August) with a final session at 2pm until 4pm with Lettuce Potting and Healthy Salad Making. Entry is free and on a drop in basis, so you can just turn up on the day and see how it goes. For further information please contact Leanne Williams 01685 722340 or email leanne.williams@merthyr.gov.uk

Merthyr Express column

2010-08-11T12:56:00.000+01:00

19th August 10

Valleys’ Dance at Eisteddfod

A recent project by Valleys’ Dance, streaching accross six local authority areas; Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Bridgend, Torfaen and Rhondda Cynon Taff Arts, culminated in a performance at the Dance Pavillion at the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale. Also performing in this Year’s Dance Pavillion was 3Gs’ dance group; Kinetics and Nia Dance. Lively pictures from all three performances can be seen on the Merthyr Tydfil Arts, Culture and Media Forum’s blog website; artscelf.blogspot.com, where you can also leave comments relating to arts, cuture or media in Merthyr Tydfil.

(Picture: Valleys' Dance at the Mayor's Parlour, Merthyr Tydfil)

Welsh Open Mic

The August Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel will be a Welsh language event with guest Ifor ap Glyn on Thursday, 26th August. The event is free entry with Welsh learners welcome. Ifor ap Glyn is a poet, born and bred in London to Welsh parents. Following a period as a scriptwriter for theatre and TV he now works as a TV producer. He has collaborated on a number of television co-productions, and also co-authored two trilingual theatre pieces, Frongoch and Branwen which have toured in Wales and Ireland. A keen performer of his work with some 15 years experience, culminating in an appearance at the gala concert to mark the opening of the National Assembly in 1999. Winner of the Crown at the 1999 National Eisteddfod with a collection of poems about the problems of learning Welsh. Ifor was Bardd Plant Cymru (Welsh-language Children’s Laureate) 2008-9. In association with Menter Iaith Merthur Tudful, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council & Academi. For further information please contact (01685) 722176 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Comedy Nights

There are four more ‘Stute’ Comedy Nights to enjoy this season at the Blackwood Miners Institute, starting on Friday 3rd September at 8pm with an evening of comedy and light entertainment. Tickets £7 in advance or £10 on the door. Over 16s Only. The following nights of stand up comedy feature three top comedians on the UK circuit with Josie Long’s “Be Honourable” on Friday 12th November, Chris needs on Saturday 27th November and Jon Briley at Best Medicine Management Presents Elis James’ Day-Tripper on Saturday 15th January.

Josie Long is unashamedly idealistic but totally confused as to how to try and change the world. The show is about how what you do each day matters. It's also about talking to strangers, grassroots political activism and finding modern heroes. It also quite prominently features a sort-of lecture about a man who takes photographs of his breakfast each morning! Often described as a unique voice in the business, Josie is one of the most respected comedians of her generation. She creates a buzz with her obsessive and ridiculous stories, leaving audiences smitten with her innocent wonder and loveable madness. Tickets £10.

Radio presenter Chris Needs returns to the "Stute" with a fun packed mixed bag including music and of course the finest camp comedy in Wales. Tickets £12 / £10 concessions, in aid of Diabetes.

From Radio One Wales's 'BBC Introducing', BBC 6Music and BBC Radio Wales's 'Rhod Gilbert Show' Wales's hottest young comedian, Elis James, has taken the Edinburgh Fringe by storm for the last two years. Now, he comes to Blackwood as part of a limited run of strictly Wales-only dates. Catch him now, before he's huge! Tickets £10

For further information please contact www.blackwoodminersinstitute.com

Merthyr Express column

2010-08-05T10:56:00.000+01:00

12th August 10

Wildlife Photography Walk
Join a group of walkers on a Walking Wildlife Photography workshop, lead by a successful local wildlife photographer on parts of the Taff and Trevithick trails. Bring a camera along and see what you can find! The images collected will be used to paint a public art mural in Pentrebach, to celebrate the opening of a new Sustrans link. If you’d like to come along the group will meet this Sunday, 15th August at 10.30am in the Co-op Carpark, Pentrebach. For further information contact Carys Solman on 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk

Colouring Master Class
As part of the activities to welcome the work of possibly Britain’s most celebrated artist, JMW Turner, Cyfarthfa Castle Museum, there are free family workshops inviting participants to have a go at colouring a landscape like Turner. Sessions run from Monday, 16th until Friday 20th August; 10.30am until 1pm and 2pm until 4.30pm. For further information please contact Cyfarthfa Castle on 01685 723112.

Cyfarthfa Greenhouse Activities
There are a number of summer activities being held at Cyfathfa Grerenhouses, Cyfarthfa Park this summer, on Thursdays at 2pm until 4pm. All activities are free and you can just turn up on the day so why not come along? Today, 12th August, you can take part in Recycled Flower Pot Making and Flower Planting. Then next Thursday, 19th August, you can take part in Grass Guy Craft and the following Thursday, 26th August, there’s Lettuce Potting and Healthy Salad Making. For further information please contact Leanne Williams 01685 722340 or email leanne.williams@merthyr.gov.uk

Biodiversity Blitz!
Come be a nature detective for the day with a Biodiversity Blitz! - Wildlife Identification Day at Taf Fechan Nature Reserve, where they will be trying to identify as many species of plants and animals as possible, to help the local biodiversity records centre. All ages welcome, and no experience necessary, the staff there will show you what to do. Meet outside Cefn-coed Community Centre at 10.30am, this Saturday, 14th August. For further information contact Carys Solman on 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk

Meet Mrs Parry
This summer why not take the opportunity to experience some Merthyr Tydfil heritage by visiting the home of one of Wales’ most celebrated exports in the company of his mother. Until 1st August, you can pop into Joseph Parry's Cottage at Chapel Row, Merthyr Tydfil, where a character-led talk will give you a face to face experience of life in the 19th century Merthyr Tydfil, during the Industrial Revolution: A time of prosperity for the town, but for many ordinary people a time of great hardship. Entrance is free. Open 2pm until 4pm. Please contact 01685 723112 for further information.

EVI - Gadael Yr Ugeinfed Ganrif

2010-07-29T10:27:00.001+01:00

Gadael Yr Ugeinfed Ganrif

· 2-4 Awst, 8.00yh
· Institwt Glyn Ebwy (EVI)
· Tocynnau - £10 (£8 am consesiwn) £5 o dan 19 oed

"Fy enw i ydi Gareth David Potter, a wi’n obsessed gyda cherddoriaeth bop. Ti’n gwybod, y stwff tshêp, grymus ’na sy’n neud i dy galon gyflymu a dy ben ffrwydro. Y stwff ’na na ddylet ti, o dan unrhyw amgylchiadau, gael unrhyw beth i wneud ag e os wyt ti dros dy chwarter canrif…"

Yn nyddiau llwyd refferendwm ’79, roedd Cymru wedi colli’i phlwc a’r sîn roc Gymraeg yn nofio mewn nostaljia. Ond roedd ymweliad aflafar y Sex Pistols â Chaerffili wedi cyffroi dychymyg un bachgen ysgol. Dyma ffurfio band...a fu pethau wedyn byth yr un peth.

Anturiaethau hunangofiannol un dyn dros dau ddegawd olaf yr Ugeinfed Ganrif, a ddaeth i benllanw gyda Cŵl Cymru a Senedd ym Mae Caerdydd, ac sydd yn plethu delweddau, cerddoriaeth a stori wir. Yn ddarlun egnïol ac o’r galon o gyfnod yn ein hanes pan fynnodd un genhedlaeth aflonydd bod y byd yn dod i Gymru ac a aeth â Chymru i’r byd.

EVI - FREE Art, Media & Music Workshops

2010-07-29T10:26:00.002+01:00

FREE Art, Media & Music Workshops
Are you 11-19 years old living in Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taf & Torfaen?

If so, come along to our FREE workshops starting during the summer holidays, which include:

*Video Editing & Filming, Movie Making, Desktop Music Production, Sound Engineering & Rock and Pop Music Workshops

Individual Instrument Tuition including:

*Guitar, Drums, Bass, Keyboards

*Arts and Crafts Workshops, London School Of Music Accredited Music Tuition & OCN Accredited Training Also Available.

To check availability over the summer holidays, contact Julian or Sam on: 01495 708022

*Also Free music workshops running daily from 1pm during Eisteddfod week (2-6th August)

Merthyr Express column

2010-07-29T09:53:00.000+01:00

5 Aug 10

Cyfarthfa Exhibitions
This summer and autumn sees a number of exciting new exhibitions at Cyfarthfa Castle, starting in August with an exhibition by a figure considered controversial in his day, but now regarded as one of the art world’s greatest innovators; known as “the painter of light”, he was concerned with light and effect almost thirty years before the French Impressionists. In an exhibition which Includes significant loans from the Tate, the work of JMW Turner will be showing at Cyfarthfa Castle from 1st until 31st August, along side one of his contemporaries, “The Welsh Turner”; Merthyr Tydfil born Penry Williams.

A series of paintings of the Cyfarthfa iron works by local artist Linda Morgan will be showing throughout September in an exhibition titled “Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel”. And in contrast to the seasons perhaps; October brings an exhibition titled “Here Comes the Sun”, featuring the latest work from the Rhymney born artist, Neil Carroll.
Contact Cyfarthfa Castle Art Gallery and Museum for details on 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk.
(Image: JW Turner: A River From A Hill. © Tate London 2010)

Welsh Poetry Competition
The winner of the Welsh Poetry 2010 competition was acclaimed crime and mystery thriller writer Sally Spedding. Born in Porthcawl and a trained sculptress her novels and short stories have won numerous awards and been widely published. Competition judge John Evans wrote of Sally Spedding’s winning poem, Litzmannstadt 1941: “Excellently written. A narrative poem whose shifts and turns propel the reader through an episode in one of humankind’s darkest eras. Lyrical, emotional, inventive, and bursting with imagery.” Other prize winners included Izzy by Nigel Ormond, which won second prize and Waiting by Jane Fox which won third prize. With entrants from across Wales and further afield including France, Belgium, USA and Australia another seventeen poems were ‘specially commended’ as well as a one-off prize for 13 year old Jeno Davies. All winning poems can be viewed on the competition website. The aim of the competition has always been to encourage and reward the wealth of creative writing talent that exists in Wales but that often gets overlooked by the arts establishment. Each year the competition continues to grow and following next year’s competition the organisers intend publishing an anthology of the best entries. To get involved with next year’s competition log on to www.welshpoetry.co.uk and register an interest or join their Facebook group.

Nia Exercise
The Nia dance technique combines movements from martial arts and yoga bursting boundaries of age, gender and fitness levels, delivering a fun, effective and life changing practice for all walks of life. Head For Arts will be holding some free Nia workshops, with Fiona Winter, at Llanhilleth Institute, Abertillery, at 7.45 – 8.45am on Friday mornings; 11th, 18th and 25th September. For further information, please contact 01495 357816.

Merthyr Express column

2010-07-15T09:44:00.000+01:00

29th July 10

National Eisteddfod

This year’s National Eisteddfod comes to the Heads of the Valleys, at The Works, Ebbw Vale from 31st July until 7th August 2010.

The Eisteddfod will feature a number of cultural competitions and performances, at a number of different places on the site including Maes D: If you want to learn Welsh, then Maes D is the place to be! Maes D (D for “dysgu” – “learn” in Welsh) is a pabell fawr (big tent) with lots of activities for everyone who's learning Cymraeg. Come on in, say “Shwmae” and find out about learning Welsh! Every year the highlight of Maes D is the Welsh Learner of the Year competition open to any adult who has learned Welsh. Four people have now reached the final round for 2010. The four finalists will be answering the audience's questions on Wednesday 4th August at 3pm. Come on in and be inspired yourself!

Other events at Maes D mirror the main Eisteddfod events using literature, song, storytelling, poetry and other arts. All the results of the Maes D written competitions will be announced in a ceremony on Tuesday 3rd August at 2pm with the Archdruid of Wales, Jim Parc Nest. The performance competitions for Welsh learners take place in Maes D on the Wednesday and Thursday.

NEWiD/Lle Celf (Art Space)

Other attractions at the Eisteddfod site include a bilingual event in English and Welsh; the community play; NEWiD which will be performed at the main Pavillion, just before the Eisteddfod on Thursday, 29th July, at 7.30pm and running through the duration of the National Eisteddfod is Y Lle Celf (The Art Space) with a large multi media exhibition which includes both fine and applied art (including the moving image and performance art). This year’s visual arts exhibition will be housed in the stack annealer basement – or one of the underground buildings which used to hold the heavy steel rolling machines. The gallery itself will be a celebration of our industrial heritage, using a totally different space in a new and exciting way. Very few of the 20,000 people who worked at the site in its prime would have imagined that the deep pit which held the heavy machinery would one day be home to an art gallery! For further information on Eisteddfod activities, please visit http://www.eisteddfod.org.uk/, or for information on the community play visit http://www.head4arts.org.uk/ or www.stwnsh.com/newid.

Welsh Open Mic

The August Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel will be a Welsh language event with guest Ifor ap Glyn on Thursday, 26th August. The event is free entry with Welsh learners welcome. Ifor ap Glyn is a poet, born and bred in London to Welsh parents. Following a period as a scriptwriter for theatre and TV he now works as a TV producer. He has collaborated on a number of television co-productions, and also co-authored two trilingual theatre pieces, Frongoch and Branwen which have toured in Wales and Ireland. A keen performer of his work with some 15 years experience, culminating in an appearance at the gala concert to mark the opening of the National Assembly in 1999. Winner of the Crown at the 1999 National Eisteddfod with a collection of poems about the problems of learning Welsh. Ifor was Bardd Plant Cymru (Welsh-language Children’s Laureate) 2008-9. In association with Menter Iaith Merthur Tudful, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council & Academi. For further information please contact (01685) 722176 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Merthyr Express column

2010-07-15T09:40:00.000+01:00

22nd July 10

The Valleys Ice Cream

With so many festivals and events taking place in the valleys this summer, to help us all keep cool, The Valleys Heart and Soul of Wales has teamed up with local ice cream manufacturer, Subzero, to create an official ice cream for The Valleys. Three shortlisted entries will be available as tasters at this year’s National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale where visitors will be able to vote for their favourite ice cream.

The winning entry will then be produced and sold in ice cream parlours across the south Wales valleys. The winner will also win a ‘Valleys Experience’ and a supply of Valleys Ice Cream, while all shortlisted entries will receive tickets to the National Eisteddfod and a Valleys goodie bag. The final date for entries is tomorrow, Friday, 23rd July 2010 at 9am, so there’s no time to waste. Contact icecream@thevalleys.co.uk for information and to tell the team what you think The Official Valleys Ice Cream should be, together with your name and contact details.

Summer Youth Dance

Join Jukebox Funk-Camp this summer for three fun packed days of dance. Get down and boogie with jukebox juniors poppin’, lockin’, street, breakin’ and more. Learn the names and characters of the moves. Technique, choreography, social dance, performance skills and drills.

Merthyr Tydfil sessions to be held on 23rd until 25th August but you need to book today before the deadline on 23rd July. The cost of the three day course is £69, with family discounts available. For further information contact 07904 512690 or 07885 466687 or email jukeboxbootcamp@gmail.com.

Funky Fun Day

Pen-y-Dre Youth Club presents a free entry Funky Fun Day for young people aged from eleven to twenty-five, on Wednesday, 28th July 2010 at Pen-y-Dre Youth Club and High School. The day starts at 11.00am and continues until 4.00pm. So if you’re in that age group, why not come along and try some new activities! For further information please contact: 01685 727085/725085.

Cyfarthfa Exhibitions

This summer and autumn sees a number of exciting new exhibitions at Cyfarthfa Castle, starting in August with an exhibition by a figure considered controversial in his day, but now regarded as one of the art world’s greatest innovators; known as “the painter of light”, he was concerned with light and effect almost thirty years before the French Impressionists. In an exhibition which Includes significant loans from the Tate, the work of JMW Turner will be showing at Cyfarthfa Castle from 1st until 31st August, along side one of his contemporaries, “The Welsh Turner” Merthyr Tydfil born Penry Williams.

A series of paintings of the Cyfarthfa iron works by local artist Linda Morgan will be showing throughout September in an exhibition titled “Cyfarthfa Iron and Steel”. And in contrast to the seasons perhaps; October brings an exhibition titled “Here Comes the Sun”, featuring the latest work from the Rhymney born artist, Neil Carroll.

Contact Cyfarthfa Castle Art Gallery and Museum for details on 01685 723112 or e-mail museum@merthyr.gov.uk.

Cyfle gwaith / Job opportunity

2010-07-12T09:51:00.001+01:00

Merthyr Express column

2010-07-07T13:23:00.000+01:00

15th July 10

Funky Fun Day

Pen-y-Dre Youth Club presents a free entry Funky Fun Day for young people aged from eleven to twenty-five, on Wednesday, 28th July 2010 at Pen-y-Dre Youth Club and High School. The day starts at 11.00am and continues until 4.00pm. So if you’re in that age group, why not come along and try some new activities! For further information please contact: 01685 727085/725085.

Welsh Open Mic

Community Play

The eastern heads of the valleys bilingual community play; NEWiD will be performed at the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale on Thursday, 29th July, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 or £3 concessions, available from 01495 355 800. Workshops leading to the performance are currently being held through the region, which covers Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent and the northern ends of Caerphilly and Torfaen by Head for Arts. Rehearsal dates: 17th, 18th and 24th to 27th July

For further information visit www.head4arts.org.uk or www.stwnsh.com/newid or contact Head for Arts directly on 01495 357816 or info@head4arts.org.uk.

Draw a Belly Dancer
Following in the footsteps of artists such as Matisse and Degas, valleys artists can take a unique opportunity to work from life and draw belly dancers whilst they perform to music at Garth Olwg Lifelong Learning Centre foyer on Wednesday 7th July at 7-9pm. The dancers will be from the Belly Dance class at the centre. There will be a small charge of £2 to take part and draw. All levels of ability welcome but participants must be age 16 and over. Spaces in the foyer drawing area are limited so please get in touch as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. For more information call: 01443 219589 or email llcreception@campwsgartholwg.org.uk or visit www.campwsgartholwg.org.uk

Youth Theatre Workshops
This week is your last chance to join Merthyr Tydfil College’s Summer Theatre experience for young people between the ages of seven and sixteen, Monday to Friday, from 19th to 30th July 2010 from 10am until 4pm. The sessions will allow students to develop skills in the three main performing arts disciplines; acting, singing and dance. The total cost for the two weeks is £150. The course will be held within the Performing Arts Department, including the use of the Myfanwy Theatre.To book and for further information, please call 07983 030 398.

Merthyr Express column

2010-06-30T17:16:00.000+01:00

8th July 10

Tiddly Prom - Bert's Magical Musical Farmyard

Arts Active bring their Tiddly Prom musical event for young children to Dowlais Blast Engine House at 1.30pm on Tuesday, 13st July 2010. Bert's Magical Musical Farmyard is a fun and interesting way to engage young children with music: It's a busy day on Bert's farm with lots of jobs to be done. But, ‘oh no', the rain is coming down and the tractor is stuck in a muddy ditch. Even with all his friends helping Bert cannot pull the tractor out of this slippy, slidey hole. Perhaps you and the magic of live music can help them? Bert's Magical Musical Farmyard is produced by Arts Active. The Tiddly Prom introduces the Proms and the magic of live music to the youngest possible audience and builds on Arts Active's ongoing pre-school music. For further details contact 01685 375318 kristianengine@aol.com. Price: £3 (£2 concessions).

Summer Theatre Experience
Merthyr Tydfil College is facilitating a performancing Arts Summer Theatre experience for young people between the ages of seven and sixteen, Monday to Friday, from 19th to 30th July 2010 from 10am until 4pm. The sessions will allow students to develop skills in the three main performing arts disciplines; acting, singing and dance. Workshops will be run by a qualified member of the college Performing Arts staff, who will deliver a variety of scenarios that are both entertaining and educational. The total cost for the two weeks is £150. The course will be held within the Performing Arts Department, including the use of the Myfanwy Theatre.To book and for further information, please call 07983 030 398.

Open Mic Night
Next week’s Open Mic Night at The Imperial Hotel welcomes poet Kevin Mills on Thursday, 8th July at 7.30pm. Open Mic Nights at the Imperial Hotel are free entry. For further information please contact (01685) 725382 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

70s and 80s Photography Show
Merthyr Tydfil documentary photographer Walter Waygood, who’s work was shown last year in Cyfarthfa Castle is now showing a similar photographic exhibition featuring a pictorial record of Blaenavon and Merthyr’s people and landscape from the 1970s and 1980s which is now on show at the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre, Church Road, Blaenavon, NP4 9AS until 31st August. Visit www.visitblaenavon.co.uk for details and opening times.

Abstract Exhibition
Merthyr Tydfil College lecturer Martyn Jones is exhibiting Atelier; a series of his abstract paintings in Cardiff’s Off The Wall Gallery, until 15th July. The gallery is located in the Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Road, Llandaff and is open Tuesday to Saturday. For further details contact 029 20554469, art@galleryoffthewall.com or visit www.galleryoffthewall.com.

Trip to the opera - Trefechan Communities First

2010-06-24T12:51:00.004+01:00

Thanks to free tickets donated by the Welsh National Opera, Communities First Trefechan were able to run a project to take 46 residents to see the opera Rigeletto. We would like to thank the Welsh National Opera for providing our residents with the opportunity to visit the Millenium Centre and watch the wonderful performance. Demand for tickets was very high and those from the Trefechan Area who could not be accommodated on this trip will have the opportunity in the future.

Merthyr Express column

2010-06-23T17:02:00.000+01:00

1st July 10

Creative Photography

Creative Photography Wales presents a short course in taking great pictures with your digital camera. The free one day photographic course takes place at Cyfarthfa Park, from 9.30am – 3.30pm on 8th to 15th July. All you need to bring is a digital camera and a packed lunch. Learn how to take inspiring photographs with landscape photographer Nigel Forster in the beautiful surroundings of Cyfarthfa Park. On the course you will learn how to compose great photographs, create panoramic photomerges, learn ways to best photograph water, how to choose images for black and white prints, creating dramatic perspectives, direction on using filters and much more. The course will provide OCN accreditation for every participant, with a certificate together with a a print to take home of your favorite picture taken on the course. Spaces are limited, so for further information, please contact Leanne Williams on 01685 722340 or email leanne.williams@merthyr.gov.uk

The Amigos
The Amigos return to the Myfanwy Theatre at Merthyr Tydfil College tonight Thursday, 1sth July with a live music performance. Tickets cost £5. Contact the box office on 07570670284. Doors open at 7.30pm.

Open Mic Night
Next week’s Open Mic Night at The Imperial Hotel welcomes poet Kevin Mills on Thursday, 8th July at 7.30pm. Open Mic Nights at the Imperial Hotel are free entry. For further information please contact (01685) 725382 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

National Youth Orchestra
The members of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales 2010 have now been selected, including five successful students from Merthyr Tydfil, and they are ready to Perform for Wales this summer.
The Orchestra will meet at the University of Wales, Lampeter for an intensive week of rehearsals before embarking on a short tour of Wales performing the closing concert of the Fishguard Festival in St Davids Cathedral, and concerts at Aberystwyth Arts Centre and St David’s Hall, Cardiff. The Orchestra will then reconvene in September to perform the opening concert at the North Wales Music Festival in St Asaph and a concert at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. Full details of all concerts and how to buy tickets can be found on the diary page of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales website: www.nyaw.co.uk

WNO Street SongsThe final instalment in WNO’s Valleys’ Street Songs project will be this Saturday, 3rd July 2010, 10.30am – 5pm in Aberdare, with the Street Songs Festival, which will include performances and screenings of all the work made over the last two years, as well as a chance to take part in a range of workshops and find out about how you can get involved with local arts organisations in the Valleys. All completely free! For more information contact Louise Carey at louise.carey@wno.org.uk or visit wno.org.uk. Supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation.

Merthyr Express column

2010-06-16T16:12:00.001+01:00

24th June 10

NEWiD

The eastern heads of the valleys bilingual community play; NEWiD (Which can be read as “New Identity” in English or “Newid”, meaning change, in Welsh) will be performed at the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale on Thursday, 29th July, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 or £3 concessions, available from 01495 355 800. Workshops leading to the performance are currently being held through the region, which covers Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent and the northern ends of Caerphilly and Torfaen by Head for Arts. For further information visit www.head4arts.org.uk or www.stwnsh.com/newid or contact Head for Arts directly on 01495 357816 or info@head4arts.org.uk.

Art & Craft Exhibition

The free entry Art and Craft exhibition in All Saints Church and Hall, Dowlais, continues until Saturday 26th June with paintings, embroidery, ceramics, photography, woodwork and other arts and crafts by local artists, from 10.30am – 4.30pm. Refreshments will also be available. For further information, please contact Mairwen Hagerty on 01685 384889

The Amigos

The Amigos return to the Myfanwy Theatre next Thursday, 1sth July with a live music performance. You’ll probably never hear such a wide range of music as you would at an Amigos concert, all played with virtuosity and bucketfuls of passion. The Amigos’ repertoire includes over 500 tunes and songs varying from Gypsy Jazz, Trad Gypsy and Hot Club Jazz to Hungarian, Yiddish, Russian, Musette, Latin, Spanish, Tex-Mex, Samba, Rumba, Calypso and Celtic. One of Swansea’s most popular and well-supported bands since they were founded by guitarists Gary Phillips and Andy King ten years ago, the line-up now expands to include violin, accordion, percussion and double bass. They regularly receive standing ovations at major festivals with their ability to instantly change their musical styles from all over the world. They have dazzled audiences with their spell-binding performances throughout the U.K, Europe and the U.S.A. Tickets cost £5. Contact the box office on 07570670284. Doors open at 7.30pm

Just Dance

The Willows Centre presents the Troedyrhiw Dance Festival 2010 this coming Wednesday, 30th June from 6.30 – 9.30pm at the Willows, Bridge Street, Troedyrhiw. Entry for spectators is only £1, with refreshments and drinks available and a raffle. Also look out for the Junior Dance Festival coming soon to Troedyrhiw.

For further information, please contact The Willows on 01443 692198

Merthyr Art on Show
After recently exhibiting successfully in New York’s Robert Steele Gallery again, Merthyr Tydfil College lecturer Martyn Jones is currently exhibiting back home in south Wales with some of his new work being shown in Llandaff’s Off The Wall Gallery. Other exhibitions in the Cardiff area this month also include the annual Welsh Artist of the Year exhibition in Saint David’s Hall, with over a hundred artworks including painting, sculpture, photography, applied arts, printmaking and drawing by artists from, or with close associations to Wales, including Michael G Payne from Dowlais.

Valleys' Dance

2010-06-16T13:12:00.001+01:00

Dance Intensive’ Auditions

Final Showcase at the National Eisteddfod Blaenau Gwent

Valleys Dance invite young people aged 14 – 25 years old from .... to audition for a place on a four day dance intensive workshop to create a dance piece which will be performed at the Eisteddfod on the 6th August 2010.

Deadline to register: Midday 25th June 2010

Audition Dates:
For dancers from Torfaen, Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly: 3rd July 2010, 10am -1pm, Pontypool Active Living Centre, Torfaen.
For dancers from Bridgend & Rhondda Cynon Taff - 3rd July 2010, 2.30pm - 5.30pm, Ystrad Rhondda Sports Centre, Ystrad.

If you would like to register to take part in the auditions please contact: Verity Hiscocks (Torfaen) 01633 628968 / Lowri Mair-Owen (Bridgend) 01656 815987 / Hannah Mathieson (Blaenau Gwent) 01495 322510 / Tony Gallagher (Caerphilly) 01495 224425 / Gus Payne (Merthyr Tydfil) 01685 725382 / Louise Prosser (Rhondda Cynon Taff) 01443 490397.

If selected to take part in the Dance Intensive, you will need to be available on: 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th August 2010 and on the 6th August for the performance at the Eisteddfod.
Rehearsal Venue: Merthyr Tydfil College

Times: Pick up at: 9am – 6pm return each day (including travel times).

Support worker/Chaperone & transport will be provided by your local authority contact.

Contribution to travel/T-Shirts: £10 per head.

The audition panel will consist of guest Choreographer, and representatives from Community Dance Wales and the Valleys Dance Partnership.

Valleys Dance is a partnership aimed at promoting Dance in the Valleys. It is supported by: Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Caerphilly, Bridgend, Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent County Borough Councils.

Dawns y Cymoedd

2010-06-16T13:08:00.003+01:00

Clyweliadau 'Dawnsio Dwys'

Perfformiad Terfynol yn Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Blaenau Gwent

Mae Dawns y Cymoedd yn gwahodd pobl ifanc 14 – 25 mlwydd oed o … i ddod i glyweliad am le ar weithdy dawns dwys pedwar diwrnod i greu dawns a fydd yn cael ei pherfformio yn yr Eisteddfod ar 6ed o Awst 2010.

Dyddiad cau ar gyfer cofrestru: Canol Dydd 25ain o Fehefin 2010

Dyddiadau’r Clyweliadau: 3ydd o Orffennaf 2010

I ddawnswyr o Dorfaen, Merthyr Tudful, Blaenau Gwent, Caerffili:10yb -1yh, Canolfan Byw Egnļol Pont-y-pwl, Torfaen.

I ddawnswyr o Ben-Y-Bont a Rhondda Cynon Taf: 2.30yh - 5.30yh, Canolfan Chwaraeon Cwm Rhondda, Ystrad.

Os hoffech gofrestru i gymryd rhan yn y clyweliadau cysylltwch â:

Verity Hiscocks (Torfaen) 01633 628968 / Lowri Mair-Owen (Pen-Y-Bont) 01656 815987 / Hannah Mathieson (Blaenau Gwent) 01495 322510 / Tony Gallagher (Caerffili) 01495 224425 / Gus Payne (Merthyr Tudful) 01685 725382 / Louise Prosser (Rhondda Cynon Taf) 01443 490397.

Os cewch eich dewis i gymryd rhan yn y Dawnsio Dwys, bydd angen i chi fod ar gael ar: 2il, 3ydd, 4ydd a 5ed o Awst 2010 ac ar 6ed o Awst ar gyfer y perfformiad yn yr Eisteddfod.

Man Ymarfer Coleg Merthyr Tudful

Amseroedd: Eich codi: 9yb – 6yh yn ôl a blaen bob dydd (yn cynnwys amserau teithio).

Bydd Gweithiwr Cefnogi/Gwarchodydd yn cael ei ddarparu gan eich cyswllt yn yr awdurdod lleol.

Cyfraniad at deithio/Crysau-T: £10 y pen.

Bydd y panel clyweld yn cynnwys coreograffydd gwadd, a chynrychiolwyr o Ddawns Gymunedol Cymru a Phartneriaeth Ddawns y Cymoedd.

Mae Dawns y Cymoedd yn bartneriaeth sy’n hyrwyddo Dawns yn y Cymoedd. Fe’i cefnogir gan: Cynghorau Merthyr Tudful, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphili, Pen-Y-Bont ar Ogwr, Torfaen a Blaenau Gwent.

Merthyr Express column

2010-06-09T15:34:00.001+01:00

17th June 10

Book Signing
Local author Mike Jenkins will be at WHSmith Merthyr Tydfil this Saturday 19th June, from 11am – 12pm signing copies of his latest book The Climbing Tree; a short novella aimed at teenagers. The story is set in Merthyr Tydfil, but in a not-too-distant future, where life is very different to the present day. At only 64 pages long The Climbing Tree gives rise to questions about the future of the environment, the growth in gang culture and life in small communities. A gripping, modern tale, The Climbing Tree is sure to be of strong appeal, and spark debate amongst its readers.
The Climbing Tree is available to buy from all good bookshops and online retailers. For more information, please visit www.pontbooks.co.uk

Bio-Diversity Open Mic
Tonight (Thursday 17th June) the Imperial Hotel welcomes author, poet, columnist and Academi Cheif Executive Peter Finch for a themed poetry and music open mic night focusing on bio-diversity and the environment. The event is free entry. For further information contact
Carys Solman on 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk.

Youth Dance
Valleys Dance invite young people aged 14 – 25 years old from Torfaen, Merthyr, Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly and Rhondda Cynon Taff to audition for a place on a four day dance intensive workshop to create a dance piece which will be performed at the Eisteddfod on the 6th August 2010. Deadline to register is midday 25th June 2010. For dancers from the Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen auditions are on 3rd July 2010, at 10am - 1pm, in Pontypool Active Living Centre, Torfaen. Anyone from the Merthyr Tydfil area who would like to register to take part in the auditions should contact Gus Payne on 01685 725382. Those in the Rhymney area should contact Tony Gallagher 01495 224425. If selected to take part in the Dance Intensive, you will need to be available 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th August 2010 for rehearsals in Merthyr Tydfil College and on the 6th August for the performance at the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale. Times will be around 9.30am – 5.30pm. The audition panel will consist of guest Choreographer, and representatives from Community Dance Wales and the Valleys Dance Partnership.

Welsh Festival
The annual Bedroc Welsh Festival is now in its third year. The festival starts tomorrow night (Friday, 18th June) with Menir Gwilym, Brigyn, Heather Jones and Ryan Kift live on stage. Then Bryn Fôn, Yr Ods, Y Betti Galws and Yucatan take to the stage following night, (Saturday, 19th June) at the Workmen's Hall & Institute, Bedlinog, from 7pm - 11.30pm on both nights. The price for Friday or Saturday night is £7 each or you can get a weekend ticket to cover both for the bargain price of £10.
The weekend also includes free day-time activities and performances for young children and the family, including S4C characters, Martyn Geraint, Gwenda Owen and music stages all on Saturday 19th June. The festival ends with a free folk music session and barbecue on Sunday, 20th June. Activities and events will take place at the Workmen’s Hall, Bedlinog Inn and Bedlinog Rugby Club. For further information please contact: jamie@merthyrtudful.com / 01685 725382 or visit www.merthyrtudful.com / www.cymdeithasgymraegbeddllwynog.co.uk.

Merthyr Express column

2010-06-07T15:54:00.001+01:00

3rd June 2010

Open Mic Nights

Tonight’s (10th June) Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel welcomes invited author Meic Stephens. Born in Trefforest in 1938, Meic was the founder of Poetry Wales 1965 and its editor until 1973. Meic stood as Plaid Cymru candidate in Merthyr Tydfil at the General Election of 1966 and was White Robe of the Gorsedd of Bards, 1976. Meic writes obituaries of eminent Welsh people for The Independent. The language of Meic’s home is Welsh, which he learned as an adult. Meic will be reading in both English and Welsh. Open mic contributions from either language are warmly welcome. Next week, 17th June, welcomes back Peter Finch for a Bio-Diversity themed open mic session. Open Mic Nights are free entry, so why not come along and join in or just relax and listen to the others. for further information, please contact 01685 725382 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Bedroc
Next Friday night, 18th June, sees the return of this year’s Welsh language festival - Bedroc ’01, beginning with Menir Gwilym, Brigyn, Heather Jones and Ryan Kift all perforrming live on stage. Then on the following night, Saturday, 19th June, Bryn Fôn, Yr Ods, Y Betti Galws and Yucatan take to the stage, at the Workmen's Hall & Institute, Bedlinog, from 7pm - 11.30pm on both nights. The price for Friday or Saturday night is £7 each or you can get a weekend ticket to cover both for the bargain price of £10.
The weekend also includes free day-time activities and performances including Mudiad Meithrin activities for young children with Gwenda Owen, The Martyn Geraint Show and schools performances, family fun with S4C children’s characters, an acoustic stage and a Cymdeithas Yr Iaith stage with a number of high profile Welsh language music performers including Masters in France, El Parisa, Bevan a Batric and Nos Sadwrn Bach amoung others, all on Saturday 19th June, throughout the day. The festival ends with a free folk music session and barbecue on Sunday, 20th June. Activities and events will take place at the Workmen’s Hall, Bedlinog Inn and Bedlinog Rugby Club. For further information please contact: jamie@merthyrtudful.com / 01685 725382 or visit www.merthyrtudful.com / http://www.cymdeithasgymraegbeddllwynog.co.uk/.

Art & Craft
There will be an exhibition in All Saints Church and Hall, Dowlais, with paintings, embroidery and other arts and crafts by local artists, from Wednesday 23rd until Saturday 26th June, 10.30am – 4.30pm. For further information, please contact Mairwen Hagerty on 01685 384889

Global Photography
This year’s Global Village festival, designed to celebrate cultural diversity, included a series of creative photography sessions with 3Gs, where a group of participants, ranging from school age through to adults, worked with artist Andrew Johnson to explore global, artistic and cultural influences, in making photographic portraits using the theme 'Who We Are'. Dealing with the relevance of global culture on present day lives. The transatlantic styles of two prominent artists from the Pop Art movement; David Hockey originally from the north of England and Andy Warhol from New York, were the main influences chosen to focus on. This work is currently on show at Dowlais Library.

Merthyr Express column

2010-05-27T16:16:00.000+01:00

3rd June 10
Rhyme Time and Story Telling
Merthyr Tydfil Libraries invite you and your children to join them for stories, rhymes and play tomorrow, Friday, 4th June. Activities will vary according to the age of the children, but will include lots of fun! Refreshments will be provided. Rhyme Time and Story Telling will be at Central Library from 10:30am until 11:30am and at Dowlais Library from 2:00pm until 3:00pm. Call 01685 723057 for further details.

Writer Returns to Merthyr

The next Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel welcomes invited author Meic Stephens on Thursday, 10th June at 7.30pm. Meic Stephens, born in Trefforest in 1938, was the founder of Poetry Wales 1965 and its editor until 1973. Meic stood as Plaid Cymru candidate in Merthyr Tydfil at the General Election of 1966 and was White Robe of the Gorsedd of Bards, 1976. Meic writes obituaries of eminent Welsh people for The Independent. He published a Cardiff based novel, Yeah Dai Dando (Cinnamon Press) in autumn 2008. Funny and fast-paced, it is the story of Dave Dando, a 25-year-old lad from Pontypridd working for the Gwalia Building Society in Cardiff. The book uses narrative, dialogue, internal monologue and ’stream of consciousness’ to convey Dave’s thoughts, as well as Youfspeak and internet language. The plot turns on whether Dave caused the death by drowning of an old man he befriends one boozy evening and whether he is going to make it with a young woman of his own age to whom he is attracted. Dave has strong views about Wales, the Welsh language and Plaid Cymru but they are modified by his meeting the old man and the young woman. The novel has a lot to say about post-Devolutionary Wales and was made Waterstone’s Book of the Month in September 2008. The language of Meic’s home is Welsh, which he learned as an adult. Meic will be reading in both English and Welsh. Open mic contributions from either language are warmly welcome. Open Mic Nights are free entry, so why not come along and join in or just relax and listen to the others. for further information, please contact 01685 725382 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

The Amigos
The Amigos return to the Myfanwy Theatre this summer with a live music performance on Thursday 1st July. You’ll probably never hear such a wide range of music as you would at an Amigos concert, all played with virtuosity and bucketfuls of passion. The Amigos’ repertoire includes over 500 tunes and songs varying from Gypsy Jazz, Trad Gypsy and Hot Club Jazz to Hungarian, Yiddish, Russian, Musette, Latin, Spanish, Tex-Mex, Samba, Rumba, Calypso and Celtic. One of Swansea’s most popular and well-supported bands since they were founded by guitarists Gary Phillips and Andy King ten years ago, the line-up now expands to include violin, accordion, percussion and double bass. They regularly receive standing ovations at major festivals with their ability to instantly change their musical styles from all over the world. They have dazzled audiences with their spell-binding performances throughout the U.K, Europe and the U.S.A. Tickets cost £5. Contact the box office on 07570670284. Doors open at 7.30pm

Bio-Diversity Poetry and Music
In addition to the monthly open mic poetry nights at the Imperial Hotel, next month also welcomes Peter Finch for a themed poetry and music open mic night on Thursday, 17th June, focusing on bio-diversity and the environment as part of Bio-diversity Week. For further information contact
Carys Solman on 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk.

Merthyr Express column

2010-05-20T09:36:00.000+01:00

27th May 10

Night at the Museum

Cyfarthfa Castle present an Egyptian themed, family friendly, late night event: Night at the Museum on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 1st and 2nd at 7pm - 9.30pm. The event is free but booking is essential so get in touch now to avoid disappointment. Contact Ruth Bradburn on 01685 723112 or museums@merthyr.gov.uk.

Circus Skills Workshop
Build your confidence and skills through learning some Circus Skills: As part of Adult Learners Week, there will be a free Circus Skills workshop on Wednesday, 2nd June at 1pm - 3pm in Troedyrhiw Boys and Girls Club, the Willows, Bridge Street, Troedyrhiw. The session is open to young adults aged 16 - 25 years. This is a 2 hour session for up to 30 young people to build confidence and self esteem, learn new skills, co-ordination, problem solving tasks etc. For further information contact Lesley Jones on 01685 727085 or lesley.jones@merthyr.gov.uk

Open Mic Night
The next Open Mic Night at the Imperial Hotel welcomes invited author Meic Stephens on Thursday, 10th June at 7.30pm. Meic Stephens, born in Trefforest in 1938, was the founder of Poetry Wales 1965 and its editor until 1973. Meic stood as Plaid Cymru candidate in Merthyr Tydfil at the General Election of 1966 and was White Robe of the Gorsedd of Bards, 1976. Meic writes obituaries of eminent Welsh people for The Independent. The language of his home is Welsh, which he learned as an adult. Meic will be reading in both English and Welsh. Open mic contributions from either language are warmly welcome. Open Mic Nights are free entry, so why not come along and join in or just relax and listen to the others. For further information, please contact 01685 725382 or email arts@merthyr.gov.uk.

Bio-Diversity Poetry and Music
In addition to the monthly open mic poetry nights at the Imperial Hotel, next month also welcomes Peter Finch for a themed poetry and music open mic night on Thursday, 17th June, focusing on bio-diversity and the environment as part of Bio-diversity Week. For further information contact
Carys Solman on 01685 726251 or carys.solman@merthyr.gov.uk.

Welsh Music Festival
The third Bedroc Welsh language music festival takes place this June, from Friday 18th until Sunday 20th, with performances from prominant performers in the Welsh language music scene, including Meinir Gwilym, Brigyn, Heather Jones, Masters in France, Bryn Fon, Yr Ods, Merthyr’s Betti Galws and many more. The Friday and Saturday nights cost £7 each or £10 for a weekend ticket covering both evenings. Other events are free entry, including Gwyl Feithrin (Welsh Nursery Festival) Saturday morning at the Workies from 10am, followed by family fun with S4C children’s characters, stalls and other attractions Saturday afternoon at 1pm until 3pm, finishing off with live acoustic music at 1pm until 6pm before the big Saturday night gig at 7pm. Sunday finishes off the whole weekend with a free folk session and barbecue from 1pm until 5pm. For tickets, accomodation please visit www.sadwrn.com. For further information please visit www.cymdeithasgymraegbeddllwynog.co.uk or contact jamie@merthyrtudful.com / 01685 722176.

Global Village Workshops - Trefechan

2010-05-19T16:03:00.006+01:00

Thanks to funding from the Global Village Festival Committee residents from Trefechan have benefitted from free workshops in the run up to the global village event on Sunday.

Over 24 residents of all ages have taken part in Belly dancing, Bhangra dance and Indian Beauty Workshops in their local community. Feedback from the workshops has been extremely positive with several residents experiencing activities that they have never taken part in before.