Owen Staton once again brought the magic of storytelling to Abercraf and Coelbren. With two daytime performances to over 300 children and staff of 7 local primary schools and two evening performances, Owen captivated and enthralled audiences with tales of
Y Tylwyth Teg.
He took the audience down familiar local pathways and mountain tracks, explored deep into dark caves, met with strange creatures and mischievous folk and experienced great happiness, sadness and fear as Owen introduced them to Ellodan, the
Lady of
Llyn y Fan Fach and the Robbers of Penwyllt.
Two young and talented harpists from the group Triphlyg, provided atmospheric music in the interval and before the show.
The next event in October is not for the faint hearted as Owen will invite you to gather around for an evening of local ghost stories.
Grave Tidings
“Traditional Local Ghost Stories as we celebrate the Darkest Night oftheYear”
14th October Abercraf Welfare Hall
15th October Coelbren Welfare Hall
Broken Promises
“Tragic Love Stories to celebrate Dydd Santess Dwynwen”
20th January 2010 Abercrave Welfare Hall
21st January 2010 Coelbren Welfare Hall.
Each public performance will begin at 7.30 pm and tickets will cost £4 and are available from the Sleeping Giant foundation on 01639731062 or on the door.
Supported by BBNPA Sustainable Development Fund, Glantawe Lions and Communities First Ystradgynlais.
Owen has also started working on a series of short films on the stories of the area. The DVD will be for sale once completed. Below is a taster film with images from pupils at Cwmtwrch Primary School, who were inspired by a story telling session from Owen.
Y
Fari Lwyd - Christmas 2008
Mari Lwyd swept out the old year and brought in the new with mischief and enthusiasm wherever she went in 2008. With a group of singers in traditional costume, she visited local Inns and sang her way up and down Tawe Uchaf accompanied by the talented accordionist, Mr. Clive Osborne.
This year saw a revival of visits to houses (as well as Inns) in Cwmgiedd and Coelbren, where the hospitality offered was most generous. Monies raised this year will benefit the work of the Volunteer Centre, Ystradgynlais, Llangiwg Restoration Fund and the work of the Sleeping Giant Foundation.
In planning the 2009 programme, we will welcome invitations for the Mari troupe to sing both inside or outside, so please let the Sleeping Giant Foundation office know in good time if you would like her to visit you.
In partnership with Menter Brycheiniog and Maesyfed, the SGF hopes to consider reviving other Welsh traditions, and looks forward to new challenges and, of course, lots of fun!
If you would like to join us, you will be made very welcome. Meetings are held at the SGF office, at the rear of the Abercrave Miners’ Welfare Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7pm, the next being on the 24th February. Look forward to seeing you there.
Santa's
Parade Sunday 21st December 2008 Santa's Parade Gallery >>>>
Once again the annual Santa Parade spread its own special kind of magic throughout the communities of the Upper Swansea Valley on Sunday 21st December, as Santa and his helpers brought good cheer to young and old alike.
Santa's Parade Gallery >>>>
In addition to giving a small gift to every child who came to see him, Santa also received a warm welcome this year from both residents and staff of Ty Mawr and Anghorfa Nursing Homes. Supported by local volunteers, (too numerous to name), the Abercrave Fire Brigade, local police officers and a group of talented musicians, the Parade brought smiles, hugs and sincere good wishes to all.
Volunteering within the community brings its own rewards and to experience these is an opportunity open to everyone. This event could not take place however without the generous support of local business people and members of the '99 Club. We thank them most sincerely for their continued support and wish you all a happy and enjoyable 2009.
What
a fabulous weekend!! The sun shone yet again on the
4th Owain Glyndwr Festival and the grounds of the
Ancient Briton were filled with happy and contented
people of all ages, enjoying the many and varied attractions
and activities,beautiful crafts, good food and beer
and the best festival yet!
For
a full review and loads of pictures go to the new
Two young and talented harpists from the group Triphlyg, provided atmospheric music in the interval and before the show.
Ancient Briton were filled with happy and contented
people of all ages, enjoying the many and varied attractions
and activities,beautiful crafts, good food and beer
and the best festival yet!.JPG)
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