Nights at the Welsh National Opera

through the memories of his muse. The result is a dazzling kaleidoscope of movement and sound where flamenco meets opera, with traditional Spanish song and sumptuous operatic numbers, interspersed with rhythmic and poetic outbursts.

La Traviata, 12th & 14th October Elegant and highly charged, this production will leave you in no doubt why Verdi’s heart-wrenching tale of thwarted love, scandal and self-sacrifice is a favourite with audiences worldwide.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

16TH-23RD SEPTEMBER

•16th & 17th

September, Meet the Household, Plas Mawr, Conwy

Meet members of the household and learn more about their lives: have a go at some activities, and join in with the dancing and games. 11am-4pm. £8.70 (5-17s £6.10, concessions available).

21st September, An Evening With the Wrexham Legends, William Aston Hall, Wrexham Dixie McNeil, Wayne Phillips and Steve Watkin talk about their triumphs and tragedies, all refereed by S4C football commentator Nic Parry! 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

Ainadamar, 10th October Golijov’s Grammywinning opera reimagines the life of Spanish poet and playwright Federico García Lorca

All in a good cause

Real ale lovers will be flocking to Llanbedr, near Harlech on 15th-16th September to sample locally brewed ales and ciders at Llanbedr Beer Festival. Harlech’s own Côr Meibion

All performances start at 7.30pm, with ticket prices from £22. www.venuecymru.co.uk

Sport of kings – plus Queen!

Battle and bands…

•22nd-24th September, Wellbeing Weekend, Loreto Spirituality Centre, Llandudno Focusing on aspects of creation, find time and space for quiet reflection and gentle, mindful body movement. Recharge, heal and find joy in everyday life. Call 01492 878 031.

Ardudwy will be supplying the music, along with rockers Ratz Alley. Entry is from £2 (for charity) and includes a souvenir glass and tasting notes. www. llanbedrbeerfestival.co.uk

Enjoy a day of great racing and superb entertainment at Bangor-on-Dee’s race meeting on 5th September Enjoy the ‘sport of kings’ followed by Queen tribute band Flash – your ticket (from £7 advance) includes admission to the show. And don’t miss the thrilling Autumn Meeting on 4th October www. bangorondeeraces.co.uk

Chirk Castle hosts some epic events this September! On 2nd & 3rd the Battle of Crogen Re-enactment recreates this major conflict between Henry II’s forces and the Welsh princes. Then on 22nd, it’s time to celebrate 50 years of Abba at an outdoor cinema screening. Harry Potter and Elvis follow on 23rd & 24th. Starts 6.45pm, tickets £14.50 (child £9.50). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

•23rd September, Richard Durrant Guitar & Ukulele Recital, Thomas Telford Heritage Centre, Menai Bridge The maverick virtuoso, storyteller and guitarist marks the arrival of the autumn equinox with a concert of acoustic music. 9.45pm. Tickets from £15.

•23rd September, Voices of the Valley, St Mary’s Church, Chirk Catch Fron Male Voice Choir for this Triple Charity Concert: proceeds go to St Mary’s Church Chirk, St David’s Church, Froncysyllte and the NSPCC. 7.30pm. Tickets £13.20.