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Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

Programme of events - April to June The second of four fantastic programmes

Before you begin…

Every once in a while you’ll discover something new that makes the world seem a far richer place.

That’s what Wrexham Year of Culture is all about, it’s a one-off chance to expand our cultural horizons and widen our enjoyment of life by experiencing art and culture in forms we wouldn’t normally give a second look.

XPLOSION – Day of Dance

So here’s my tip: take a chance, be brave, try something new.

Love music? Try a spot of comedy as well. Got a passion for film? Dabble with some creative fashion. Enjoy food and drink? Get some opera under your belt too.

Crammed with high quality events, this second instalment of our programme is a cultural journey of discovery just waiting to happen.

Don’t let it pass you by.

Dave Spikey

National Youth Jazz Wales

Wrexham Arts Festival 7 – 21 May

Wrexham Food Week 9 – 13 May

Councillor Jim Kelly, Mayor of Wrexham

Attending an event The events that make up this programme have been contributed by many different organisations, each of which has made its own arrangements for obtaining tickets, where needed. Full details are included with the description of each event.

Information For general information on Wrexham Year of Culture contact the Team on 01978 667320. For information relating to a specific event, contact the event organiser (see above).

Disclaimer: the information contained in this programme was correct at the time of going to print

Wrexham Art Group Exhibition

Wrexham Year of Culture Patrons We are proud to introduce our Wrexham Year of Culture patrons. All of them began their lives in Wrexham and all have now attained international reputations in their chosen fields. When we invited them to become patrons, we asked them for a few words to explain why they had agreed to support us. Here is what they said: Owen Edwards - I am an international competitive athlete and current British National Ice Dance Champion. I am very happy to support the Wrexham Year of Culture 2011 because I feel it is a great opportunity to promote a sense of community and cooperation within the Wrexham area. I hope it will enable people to meet others, face new challenges and bond together to learn more about one another and the area in which we live.

Lydia Griffiths - I am over the moon to be asked to be a patron of such a wonderful and exciting venture. I instantly felt I had to jump on board when I thought about the masses of talent we have in our local area and how people need a platform to springboard them into the limelight. It was so important for me to get involved with every aspect of music as a child - amateur dramatics, choirs, concerts, bands etc - the experience has proved invaluable to me as a professional singer.

I’m looking forward to seeing the events unfold and urge everybody to come along and support Wrexham’s Year of Culture.

02

Tom James - I was delighted to be asked to become a patron of Wrexham Year of Culture 2011. Wrexham is a very diverse town with a lot of local talent in many cultural genres. It is good to see that a wide definition for what classes as ‘culture’ has been accepted as sports and our sporting history have a very important role in Wrexham. I am looking forward to seeing the variety of events taking place over the coming twelve months and would encourage everyone to join in to make sure that Wrexham Year of Culture 2011 is a huge success.

Gareth Valentine - I always look back on my roots with pride and warm nostalgia.

Wrexham was the town I visited every weekend as a boy, and I loved its noise and busy atmosphere. To be a small part of the Wrexham Year of Culture is an honour and one I look forward to with great anticipation.

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011 is brought to you by Wrexham County Borough Council’s Assets and Economic Development Department and partners If you are organising an event in 2011 and wish to have it considered for inclusion in one of the two remaining quarterly programmes, please contact the programme co-ordinator on 01978 667320 or email wrexhamyearofculture@wrexham.gov.uk PROGRAMME DESIGNERS:

Dave Simkiss - dave.simkiss@nwn.co.uk John Gaulton - john.gaulton@nwn.co.uk

PUBLISHING:

Printed and distributed by NWN Media. www.nwnmedia.co.uk Mold Business Park, Mold, CH7 1XY.

www.yearofculture.co.uk Our thanks are due to the following organisations, without whose support it would have been impossible to offer this programme of events in celebration of Wrexham Year of Culture Principal Sponsor

Programme Sponsors

In association with

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

03

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

APRIL WREXHAM PRINT INTERNATIONAL 2011 Until 19 May (from 25 March) Oriel Wrecsam and Memorial Gallery, Yale College This is the sixth biennial exhibition showcasing international printmaking in Wrexham. All work displayed will be selected from an open submission by established print professional and author, Richard Noyce. A prize of artists’ supplies will be awarded to the winners, whose names will be announced on the preview night. (Thursday 24 March, 5.00pm - 8.00pm)

‘THE SEARCH FOR ANIAN’ An exhibition of new work by Adrian Paul Metcalf

1 – 21 April, 9.00am – 5.00pm Gwersyllt Community Resource Centre The Strait of Anian, the fabled Northwest Passage leading from the Pacific to the Atlantic, has been the catalyst for these new works with their themes of exploration and imagination. Adrian Metcalfe is based at the Canfas Gallery in Canton, Cardiff and this will be the first major exhibition of his work in north Wales for over a decade.

2 April, 10.00am – 4.00pm Yale College Film-tastic is a series of workshop days which delve into the processes involved in making a short film - right from the early script stages to the final screening. There will be workshops on scripting, shooting, editing, special effects, horror make-up and fight choreography.

Free event, but booking essential.

Tickets from Yale College, 01978 317329 (term time only) or 01978 311794

Free event. i 01978 722880

THINC QUILTS OPEN DAY 2 April, 10.00am – 3.00pm Art & Design Department, Yale College

Oriel Wrecsam, Mon – Wed and Fri 9.30am – 6.45pm, Thurs 12.00 – 6.45pm, Sat 9.30am – 4.00pm i 01978 292093 Memorial Gallery, Yale College, Mon – Fri, 1.30pm - 3.30pm (term time only) or by appointment 01978 311794 ext 2291.

FILM-TASTIC

A drop-in day for anyone interested in machine quilting. See the centre, meet the staff and have a go!

Free drop-in event.

i 01978 311794 ext 2291

THE SEARCH FOR ANIAN

WHOLE LOTTA LED CHRYSALIS SERIES, JEAN WILSON Until 22 May (from 25 March) Oriel Wrecsam An exhibition of work by emerging artist, Jean Wilson, shown as part of the Chrysalis Series, which showcases the work of recent graduates from Glyndŵr University’s Fine Art degree course.

Mon – Fri 9.30am – 6.45pm, Sat 9.30am - 4.00pm Free entry. i 01978 292093

OLD RHOS 1 April, 6.30pm – 9.30pm Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog An exhibition of previously unseen photographs of Rhos in days gone by. Also video shots of the recent refurbishment of the Stiwt, which include views from the clock. £3. Tickets from Theatr Stiwt, 01978 841300, www.stiwt.co.uk

An Evening of Variety Entertainment 1 April, 7.30pm Brymbo Sports and Social Club Noson Lawen with Glyn Owen, Lleisiau Clywedog, Hannah Williams (Soprano), Seren Jones (Harp), Nerys Hewitt (Harp), the group ‘Intolerance’ from Coedpoeth, Olivia Fennel (Flute), Les Barker, and Coedpoeth Street Dance Group. Proceeds to Wrexham and District National Eisteddfod 2011.

WREXHAM ART GROUP EXHIBITION Until 2 April (from 24 March) Grove Park Theatre, Hill Street, Wrexham An exhibition of work by local artists, in a variety of media. Local scenes, flower paintings, still life and other subjects.

Mon, Thurs, Fri 12.00 – 2.00pm & 7.00pm – 7.30pm, Sat 10.30am – 12.30pm Free entry. i 01978 844360

A must for all Led Zeppelin fans! Join the UK’s only professional Led Zeppelin tribute band as they perform the legendary Zep IV show. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult and under 21s must provide ID to purchase alcohol. £13.50. Tickets from Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog, 01978 841300 www.stiwt.co.uk

XPLOSION – DAY OF DANCE

NOSON LAWEN

CHRYSALIS SERIES, JEAN WILSON

2 April, 8.00pm – 11.30pm Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog

£5. Tickets from Lindsey Jones, 07732 561460

Day of Dance includes masterclasses in Salsa, Capoeira, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Breakdance, Popping & Locking. The workshops are led by professional dance practitioners and are suitable for anyone aged 11+, whether a complete beginner or with some dance experience. Don’t be shy - have a try! £15 (price includes Day of Dance and XPLOSION – see below)

XPLOSION - EVENING SHOW THE EASTER JOURNEY: A REFLECTIVE EXPERIENCE 2 April, visit any time 10.00am – 3.00pm St Giles’ Church, Wrexham Around the church a number of ‘stations’, each with a range of stimulus material – visual, textual, and sometimes audio – will allow visitors to reflect on the story and message of Easter and also their own spiritual journey. The event is open to people of all backgrounds and experience and is designed to be self-directed.

Free event, all welcome.

3 April, 6.00pm – 8.00pm Stiwt Theatre, Rhosllanerchrugog This enthralling evening of dance includes pieces in a variety of styles, performed by local young people who participated in NEW Dance’s ten week long XPLODE project, as well as professional companies, including 2 Faced and Mexendo. £5 / £4 (concessions). Tickets from Stiwt Theatre Box Office, 01978 841300 or see www.stiwt.co.uk

i 01978 355808

REGIONAL PRINT CENTRE OPEN DAY 2 April, 10.00am – 3.00pm Regional Print Centre, Yale College A free drop-in day for anyone who is interested in printmaking. Come and see the Print Centre, meet some of our members and have a go at printing.

WREXHAM CHURCH BY ERIC WILSON 04

11+

3 April, 10.00am – 4.00pm Stiwt Theatre, Rhosllanerchrugog

Free drop-in event. i 01978 317329 ext 2291 or email canolfanargraffu@yale.wrexham.ac.uk

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

XPLOSION – DAY OF DANCE

www.yearofculture.co.uk

AR DDANNEDD Y PLANT AC AMBELL GYFROL ARALL

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR CAMERA

6 April, 7.00pm – 8.00pm Wrexham Library

8 April, 9.45am – 4.30pm Conference Room, Alyn Waters Country Park

Elfyn Pritchard, previous winner of the Prose Medal and the Daniel Owen Memorial Prize at the National Eisteddfod, as well as the Mary Vaughan Jones Trophy, will be discussing his recent books, including his latest novel, Ar Ddannedd y Plant, published in 2010. This is a Welsh language event. £4 / £3 (concessions). Tickets from Oriel Wrecsam, 01978 292093

THE PRACTICE OF LITERATURE WITH SIÂN MELANGELL DAFYDD 7 April, 7.00pm – 9.00pm The Belmont Hotel Siân will be talking about her own books and about the practice of literature in general.

Free event, all welcome i 01978 359846.

FIRST MONDAYS – SUPER SCREEN-PRINT 4 April, 5.00pm – 6.45pm Oriel Wrecsam An opportunity to learn how to screen-print, with inspiration from Wrexham Print International 2011. Participants will be able to apply their own designs to fabric samples or paper and take them home to brighten up a corner or a couch. Class for adults.

Free first session then £3 / £2 (concessions) i 01978 292093

THE MAGIC HAT ENSEMBLE 5 April, 8.30pm – 11.15pm Royal British Legion, Llay This brilliant young jazz quintet, led by Steve Chadwick (trumpet/cornet) and featuring the superlative Andrzej Baranek (keyboards), Anthony Ormesher (guitar), Nick Blacka (double bass) and Rob Turner (drums), stops off in North Wales on its current UK-wide tour. The energy and spontaneity of their performances are qualities that make this band special!

DAVE SPIKEY

18+

Comedy Night

7 April, 8.00pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Dave’s brand new show is a combination of his popular deconstruction of song lyrics and his fascination with the vagaries of the English Language. His examination of situations where words really don’t come easy includes tongue-tied parents explaining the facts of life, adolescent chat-up lines, learning a foreign language and song lyrics that range from the lazy, through surreal, to the ridiculous.

If your compact or SLR camera offers aperture, shutter and manual camera modes, but you’re not sure how to make the most of these features, join Ioan Said of Celynnen Photography on this short workshop and learn how to make the most of your camera. £50. To reserve a place contact ioan@celynnenphotography.co.uk, 01978 840283

PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE: REFLECTED 8 April, 7.30pm – 9.30pm Theatre Iâl, Yale College, Wrexham Internationally renowned contemporary dance company, Phoenix Dance Theatre, presents a compelling and entertaining programme of four diverse works as the final element of NEW Dance’s XPLODE project. An exhibition in the foyer will show the work of the XPLODE project in Wrexham schools.

NEW Dance’s XPLODE project is supported by the Arts Council of Wales £8 / £6 (concessions). Tickets from Box Office, Yale College, 01978 311794 ext 2071

£16 / £14 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

£6.50 / £5.50 (concessions) / £3 children.

Pay on the door. i 01745 812260.

PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE THE MAGIC HAT ENSEMBLE

DANCE IN MOTION

AN EVENING OF MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT

5 – 6 April, 7.00pm – 9.00pm Theatre Iâl, Yale College, Wrexham

8 April, 7.30pm – 10.00pm Memorial Hall, Wrexham

An evening of dance presented by over seventy performing arts students from Yale College. The show will be the culmination of work created during the year and will include a wide variety of pieces from various genres including ballet, contemporary dance and jazz.

A fun-filled fund raising event for the National Eisteddfod. This evening of music from Wales, England and much further afield, will feature Llangollen Silver Band, Choral Variations and Rhosnesni High School Choir.

£8 / £6 (concessions). Tickets from plm@yale-wrexham.ac.uk or Box Office, Yale College, 01978 311794 ext 2071

DAVE SPIKEY

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

£6 / £4 (concessions). Tickets from Rhosnesni High School, 01978 340840; Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015; members of Choral Variations

05

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

SAM COOMBES QUARTET 12 April, 8.30pm – 11.15pm Royal British Legion, Llay This brilliant young outfit, led by saxman Sam Coombes, a favourite on the Paris jazz scene, pays its first visit to North Wales whilst on a Jazz Services supported UK tour. The band’s line-up includes David Patrick (keyboards), Mario Caribe (bass) and BBC Big Band drummer Tom Gordon. £6.50 / £5.50 (concessions) / £3 (children).

Pay on the door. i 01745 812260

YOUR TIME, YOUR CASTLE

YOUR TIME, YOUR CASTLE

JOHN ETHERIDGE

9 – 10 April, 10.00am – 5.00pm Chirk Castle

9 April, 8.30pm – 11.15pm ^ Students’ Union Bar, Glyndwr University

Celebrate the onset of spring with a weekend of free entry to this stunning medieval fortress. Meet the medieval guards and discover what life was like 700 years ago.

Tour the stately interiors and discover how the fortress became a treasured family home and then go outside and enjoy the daffodils and spring garden flowers.

Ex-Stephane Grappelli guitarist, John Etheridge, enjoys a glowing reputation throughout the jazz world and beyond. A member of legendary jazz fusion group, Soft Machine, John currently tours with classical guitarist, John Williams. For this event, he is joined by guitarists Trefor Owen and Andy Hulme, plus Bill Coleman on double bass. A North Wales Jazz Guitar Weekend event.

Free event.

i 01691 777701

AN EVENING WITH THE JAMES LAMBERT SINGERS 9 April, 7.30pm Air Products Club, Acrefair All proceeds from this evening with the James Lambert Singers are in aid of Wrexham and District National Eisteddfod 2011, Cefn Mawr Appeal Committee. £5. Tickets from Bethan Grey-Davies, 01978 821288

AN EVENING WITH THE SOGGY BOTTOM BOYS 9 April, 7.30pm Gresford Colliery Club All proceeds from this evening with the Soggy Bottom Boys are in aid of Wrexham and District National Eisteddfod 2011, Gresford & District Eisteddfod Appeal Committee. £5. Tickets from Beryl Blackmore, 01978 855691

WREXHAM ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS FAIR

£8 / £7 (concessions) / £3 (children).

Pay on the door. i 01745 812260

THE WILD WELSH HIGH STREET PARTY 10 April, 11.00am – 9.00pm High Street, Wrexham Come to High Street to see the best of Welsh food, drink and craft stalls, great amateur and professional stage acts and players from Wrexham Football Club and The Crusaders.

This is a day not to be missed! Family activities 11.00am – 6.00pm, professional stage performances, 6.00pm – 9.00pm. Onstreet catering throughout the day.

Free event, Organised by The Wrexham Chamber of Trade & Tourism. i 01978 266669 info@thebankwrexham.co.uk

THE BILL BASEY BIG BAND 11 April, 8.30pm – 11.00pm Club House, Oak Road, Wrexham Industrial Estate

SAM COOMBES QUARTET

SIMON EVANS – FRINGE MAGNET Comedy Night 14+

13 April, 8.00pm ^ Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University Fringe Magnet sees the sublime comedian and writer, Simon Evans, return to Glyndŵr University with his trademark sharp, ironic wit.

The leading light of BBC ONE’s ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’ and BBC3’s ‘Edinburgh Fest Comedy Gala’, Simon’s star is very much in the ascendant, following his success in the 2010 Edinburgh Fringe. £12 / £9 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293 www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

AN EVENING WITH GERVASE PHINN, RACONTEUR 18+ 14 April, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Prepare for many a laugh as Gervase Phinn shares his hilarious, sometimes poignant, tales of life as a school inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. With a keen ear for the absurd and a sharp eye for the ludicrous, this best selling author, radio and TV personality is one of Britain’s greatest comic writers and raconteurs. £15.50. Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

A concert of big band music from the 1930s – 1960s, in the style of Glen Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman and others of their ilk. (Also on 16 May and 13 June) £3, pay at door. i 01978 751487 (Bill Basey), 01978 662266 (Club House)

9 April, 9.30am – 3.30pm Memorial Hall, Wrexham A monthly collectors’ fair selling a wide variety of antiques and collectables, including glass, ceramics, militaria, pictures and prints, books, ephemera, jewellery, postcards etc.

Also 14 May & 11 June. £1 / 70p (concessions).

Pay on door. i 01492 547868 / 07786 016576 THE BILL BASEY BIG BAND 06

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

GERVASE PHINN

www.yearofculture.co.uk

DATHLU CYHOEDDI Y GYMRAES O GANAAN GAN EIRIAN JONES 14 April, 2.00pm – 3.00pm Rhos Library Margaret Jones, born in Rhos in 1842, had just 3 weeks of education, became a maid at 14 and travelled the world. She published two books about her experiences, married an extremely rich Australian and died in Queensland in 1902. This Welsh language event, in conjunction with Y Lolfa, celebrates the biography of a fascinating woman.

Free event, no ticket needed. i 01978 292620

THE BALLET POD PRESENTS ‘THE ENCHANTED TOYSHOP’

An Easter Workshop Based on the Ballet Coppelia 15 April, 10.30am – 5.00pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Chirk An exciting workshop for budding ballet dancers, based on the ballet Coppelia and led

by Richard Slaughter, a former dancer with the Royal Ballet. Come and learn some of the dances from the ballet and join the craft sessions to make hats, head-dresses and fans to wear in the final performance. (Suitable for children preschool – aged 13.) £3 (under 7s – from 3.30pm only), £12 (over 7s – all day), £2 to watch the performance at 4.30pm.

Booking form from theballetpod@aol.com 01691 773016

ROLAND CHADWICK IN CONCERT WITH TERRAPLANE BLUES 15 April, 8.15pm – 11.15pm Village Hall, Worthenbury

MARGARET JONES

An acoustic blues and roots music gig featuring Roland Chadwick. This classically trained acoustic guitarist has played with the likes of Lesley Garrett, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as Jethro Tull, Level 42 and John Renbourn. Support from Terraplane Blues - a local trio playing post and pre war acoustic blues. Doors open 7.15pm. www.hookerblues.co.uk £10. Tickets from pete@hookerblues.co.uk, 01948 770215

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET – CINDERELLA 15 April, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University The Vienna Festival Ballet’s full length version of this favourite fairy story has all the familiar ingredients - a downtrodden young girl, a glass slipper, two ugly step-sisters and a handsome prince, with whom Cinderella falls in love. Chris Nicholls’ specially commissioned score, which includes music from Rossini’s most famous operas, undoubtedly adds to the magical fantasy of the ballet. £17.50 / £15 (concessions) / £12 (up to 14 years). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

THE BALLET POD

DRAMA WORKSHOP

A taster session for those interested in AS/A2 Drama & Theatre Studies 18 April, 10.00am – 3.00pm Theatre Iâl, Yale College, Wrexham

RHOS ORPHEUS CHOIR 16 April, 7.00pm – 9.30pm Capel y Groes, Wrexham A musical evening with the famous Rhos Orpheus choir. Soloists RW Jones and Robert Parry. All proceeds to the National Eisteddfod Wrexham and District. £8. Tickets from Siop Y Siswrn or 01978 351171

This open drama workshop is designed to give young people aged 14 -19 a flavour of the AS/A2 Drama & Theatre Studies course offered by Yale College. It will be fun, challenging and ideal for those with a genuine interest in drama.

Free event, but it is essential to reserve a place. mjl@yale-wrexham.ac.uk 01978 317329

PATRONS’ EVENT MUSICAL THEATRE MASTERCLASS WITH GARETH VALENTINE Guest Performance by Lydia Griffiths ^ 17 April, 2.00pm – 4.00pm. Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University

Join the audience for this masterclass and see ten aspiring singer/actors perform songs of their own choice for West End composer and musical director, Gareth Valentine. Gareth, a patron of Wrexham Year of Culture, will give expert advice to help them further their musical careers. Mervyn Cousins, musical director of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, will accompany the performers on piano. West End musical actress, Lydia Griffiths, also a patron of Wrexham Year of Culture, will give a short performance. £5 / £2.50 (concessions and under 18s). Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015. i Year of Culture Team, 01978 667320

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET

GARETH VALENTINE

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

LYDIA GRIFFITHS

07

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

CAPTURING CREATIVE CONCEPTS

NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ WALES

23 April, 10.00am – 4.00pm Eagles Meadow, Wrexham

25 April, 7.30pm – 9.30pm ^ Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University

Visit this showcase for some wonderful Welsh crafts, locally produced by innovative and creative enterprises. You’ll find unusual gifts and handmade crafts, as well as hands-on demonstrations. As it’s Easter, spoil yourself with something less fattening than an egg!

The best young jazz musicians in Wales perform classic big band charts and contemporary scores, under the direction of Percy Pursglove, one the UK jazz scene’s most exciting and talented performers.

For information on how to get involved contact: Liz.wallens@wrexham.gov.uk 01978 366366

DRYPOINT PRINTMAKING

DRYPOINT PRINTMAKING

12+

BANGOR ON DEE BLUES AND REAL ALE FESTIVAL

19 April, 1.00pm – 3.00pm Oriel Wrecsam Drypoint is a printmaking technique in which an image is scratched into a surface, then inked up and printed using a printing press.

Artist, Ann Bridges, will run a ‘fun’ printing workshop using a drypoint technique. £4 / £3 (concessions).

Book early to avoid disappointment 01978 292093

THE PRINT SYMPOSIUM 19 April, 10.00am – 4.30pm Regional Print Centre, Yale College A series of lectures by leading academics, writers and artists who will debate developments and techniques within traditional and contemporary printmaking, as well as the shifting of traditional boundaries. Speakers include Professor Paul Coldwell, Richard Noyce, Jason Hicklin, Daphne Warbury Astor and Johanna Love. www.yale-wrexham.ac.uk

23 –24 April, 5.00pm – midnight The Buck House Hotel, Bangor on Dee 23 April: Austin "Walkin’ Cane", acoustic delta blues guitarist from Cleveland USA; Tommy Allen and Johny Hewitt, guitar and harmonica duo; BOD Electric Blues Band.

24 April: Rip Roaring Success - Swing and Country trio of bass, guitar and violin; Terraplane Blues - acoustic blues trio; Mumbo Jumbo - 5 piece acoustic jazz and blues.

Funds raised will go to the local community, charities and rural initiatives. £5 per day. Tickets from pete@hookerblues.co.uk, 01948 770215 or The Buck House Hotel, 01978 780336

£8 / £6 (concessions) / £6 (children).

Tickets from eventelephant.com/nyjw 029 2063 5650

GUIDED TOUR OF THE PONTCYSYLLTE WORLD HERITAGE SITE CORRIDOR 25 April, 10.00am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 4.30pm (also 2 May, see page 9) Departure from Library Car Park, Wrexham This scenic, guided coach tour will explore the Llangollen Canal from its origin at the Horseshoe Falls, through to the aqueduct at Chirk, taking in Telford’s masterpiece at Pontcysyllte and part of the Ceiriog Valley, before meandering back to Wrexham. www.chirkandtheceiriogvalley.co.uk Tour organised by J.O.Travel and Ceiriog Country Holidays. £7.50 adults / £5.00 (concessions and children).

Tickets must be pre-booked from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, Wrexham, 01978 292015, tic@wrexham.gov.uk i Bryn Hughes 01691 718398

£35 (includes lunch and refreshments).

Tickets from 01978 311794 x 2291, canolfanargraffu@yale-wrexham.ac.uk PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT

EMBOSSED JOURNALS 20 April, 10.00am - 3.00pm.

Oriel Wrecsam

12+

PHOTOGRAMS

Artist Jacqui Dodds will lead a day of printmaking that includes lino printing and embossing to make an A5 journal/sketchbook to take home. Please bring along an A5 photograph to use as inspiration for your lino cut. Full day workshop. Remember to bring a packed lunch! £5 / £4 (concessions).

Book early to avoid disappointment 01978 292093

Gather objects from nature and use them to create your very own photogram!

A photogram is a photographic image made without a camera by placing objects directly onto the surface of a photo-sensitive material, such as photographic paper, and then exposing it to light. The result is a negative shadow image varying in tone.

Children must be accompanied by an adult BANGOR ON DEE BLUES AND REAL ALE FESTIVAL

EASTER TRAILS AT CHIRK CASTLE 22 – 25 April, 10.00am – 5.00pm Chirk Castle Complete the family trail and claim your prize - a yummy chocolate egg. Join the medieval guards in the castle courtyard or play in the Cadbury’s fun park.

08

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

£2 for the trail plus normal admission charges. i 01691 777701

EASTER TRAILS AT CHIRK CASTLE

<7

27 April, 1.00pm – 3.00pm Oriel Wrecsam

NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ WALES

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

£3 per person. Book early to avoid disappointment. i 01978 292093

www.yearofculture.co.uk

CYANOTYPES

WREXHAM ROYAL WEDDING STREET PARTIES

8-12

28 April, 10.00am - 3.00pm Oriel Wrecsam

29 April, various times and locations

Go on a photo shoot to gather images then, over the course of the day, learn how to transform these images into cyanotype prints. Cyanotype is an alternative photographic printing process that gives a cyan-blue print. Full day workshop. Don’t forget to bring a packed lunch! £5 / £4 (concessions). Book early to avoid disappointment. 01978 292093

Join in the celebration of the marriage of Prince William of Wales to Catherine Middleton with a Wrexham Royal Street Party. Street parties have historically been held to commemorate momentous events, such as VE Day, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and Royal Weddings, but are not as popular as they once were. Wrexham Year of Culture 2011 plans to change all that!

To organise your own Street Party, or to find out where your nearest party is being held, telephone 01978 667320

THE ZODIAC CLUB

MAY GUIDED TOUR OF THE PONTCYSYLLTE WORLD HERITAGE SITE CORRIDOR 2 May, 10.00am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 4.30pm (also 25 April, see page 8) Departure from the Library Car Park, Wrexham

GARY POTTER TRIO 3 May, 8.30pm – 11.15pm Royal British Legion, Llay

The Zodiac Club is an exclusive monthly club night which features the best in quality Northern Soul, 60s Funk, R’n’B, Latin, Ska and Reggae, all played by big name DJs. Also 28 May

Gary Potter’s expertise as a jazz and country guitarist have won him national awards, as well as widespread popularity in Europe, the USA and Australia. Gary’s incredible technique and versatility are influenced by the great Django Reinhardt, Bireli Lagrene and Wes Montgomery. Appearing with Gary are Ducato Piotrowski (rhythm guitar) and Dave Turner (double bass).

Free entry. i mark@thezodiacclub.com 01978 350432

£6.50 / £5.50 (concessions) / £3 (children).

Pay on the door. i 01745 812260

30 April, 9.00pm – 2.00am Frenzi Club, L’Etage, Abbot Street, Wrexham

ST GILES’ SESSIONS PRESENTS ‘HEAL THE LAST STAND’ 30 April, 7.30pm – 9.30pm St Giles’ Church, Wrexham CYANOTYPES

CORONETS AND CRAYONS

4-7

28 April, 10.30am – 12 noon Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives Calling all little princes and princesses! You have been invited to the wedding of the year, but you have to look the part. Make your own coronet, guided by local artist, Emma Holmes.

The St Giles’ Sessions will present the best of the town’s contemporary music scene, with a series of four unique performances. First off is ‘Heal The Last Stand’, a four-part harmony group with its own distinctive blend of Folk Americana. The band has performed at UK festivals, including Glastonbury’s 40th anniversary, and has toured in the USA and Spain. Doors open 7.00pm. £7.50 / £5 (concessions). Tickets from www.thefoundrywrexham.co.uk/stgilessessions, St Giles’ church, Yale’s Café Bar. i 01978 345220

GARY POTTER

SPEED-THE-PLOW 5 – 14 May, 7.30pm – 9.45pm Grove Park Theatre, Hill Street, Wrexham

£2. Tickets from Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives, 01978 297460.

From the pen of American playwright, David Mamet, ‘Speed-the-Plow’ focuses on the ruthless nature of Hollywood and the movie industry.

TIM BOOTH – LOVE LIFE TOUR

£8 / £4.50 (under 18s).

Tickets from Box Office, 01978 351091, www.groveparktheatre.co.uk

28 April, 7.00pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University James’ front-man, Tim Booth, appears as part of a tour showcasing material from his album ‘Love Life’, which will be released on his own label, Monkey God Records, via Absolute on 4 April. £18. Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293 www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

WORDYBIRDIES LIVE! HEAL THE LAST STAND

EIGHT & THE READY GET SET 30 April, 8.00pm – 11.00pm The Four Dogs, Acton, Wrexham Eight is a Wirral based 4-piece guitar band which plays Reggae, Rock’n’Roll and Post Punk. In this double bill, the band is joined

by R&B one-man band sensation Paul Galvin, aka ‘The Ready Get Set’. Paul is embarking on his first world tour around the pubs and clubs of north Wales.

Free entry.

i 07785 223348, eight@8band.com

6 May, 7.45pm – 9.30pm Golden Lion, Coedpoeth An evening of original, humorous and thought-provoking verse, monologues and sketches, all written and performed by wordybirdies LIVE! – otherwise known as local performance poetry double act Julie Hinchliffe and Sue Gale, who are currently taking local groups and organisations by storm with their two-woman show. £3. Tickets from, nest@wordybirdies.co.uk 07854 047388 or 07745 807973

BILL SHEFFIELD AND DAVE SAUNDERS IN CONCERT 6 May, 9.00pm – 11.00pm Village Hall, Worthenbury Bill Sheffield, the acoustic blues guitarist from Atlanta Georgia, returns to Worthenbury as part of his UK tour, accompanied by Dave Saunders on bass guitar. Dave is a member of top UK blues band, The Producers. (Doors open 8.00pm) www.hookerblues.co.uk

TIM BOOTH

EIGHT & THE READY GET SET

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

£10. Tickets from pete@hookerblues.co.uk, 01948 770215 09

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

Wrexham Arts Festival 7 – 21 May

WREXHAM ARTS FESTIVAL OPENING EVENT WREXHAM SYMPHONY ^ ORCHESTRA WITH LLYR WILLIAMS 7 May, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University To kick off Wrexham’s Arts Festival, we look forward to welcoming back Llŷr Williams. Born in 1976 in Pentrebychan, he attended Ysgol Hooson and Ysgol Morgan Llwyd. His first commercial CD featuring Chopin’s Préludes was released in March 2006 on the Quartz label. This will be Llŷr’s fourth performance with the Wrexham Symphony Orchestra in an association that stretches back to 1995. £10 stalls, £15 balcony (No concessions) Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015

ALAN SKIDMORE Also featuring Wales’s premier guitarist Trefor Owen and the double bass led Bill Coleman Trio with Paul Sawtell (keyboards) and Dave Hassell (drums).

Organised in association with the North Wales Jazz Society.

UNDERSTANDING ART MADE IN WALES

£8 / £7 (concessions and NWJS Members) / £3 children. Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015 and at all North Wales Jazz Society concerts

This richly illustrated lecture by Yale College’s Contextual Studies tutor, Julia Strong, provides an introduction to the diverse Art of Wales, both past and present, and examines what it can reveal about our country’s fascinating history, culture and national identity. Target audience: newcomers to ‘Art Appreciation’ aged 16+ .

NEWS FROM NOWHERE: AN EVENING WITH PHILIP GROSS 11 May, 7.00pm – 8.00pm Wrexham Library

14 May, 10.30am – 12 noon (and 29 June, see page 16) Lecture Theatre, Yale College

Free event, but it is essential to reserve a place. Call Yale College, 01978 311794 / Faculty Office (term time only) 01978 317329

Philip Gross, Professor of Creative Writing at Glamorgan University, has published 12 poetry collections and 10 novels for young people, most recently ‘The Storm Garden’.

He won the TS Eliot Prize 2009 with ‘The Water Table’ and Wales Book of The Year 2010 with ‘I Spy Pinhole Eye’, whilst ‘Off Road To Everywhere’ is a Children’s Poetry Bookshelf choice. ^

LLYR WILLIAMS

NORTH WALES JAZZ CONCERT WITH THE INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED ALAN SKIDMORE 10 May, 8.30pm Royal British Legion, Llay, Wrexham Featuring world class saxophonist Alan Skidmore, award winner at Montreux Jazz Festival. Alan, a soloist with the Georgie Fame and Stan Tracey bands, as well as with Stones’ drummer Charlie Watts’s jazz groups, has performed with legends Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock and Clark Terry.

He reached No 1 in the US jazz chart with the Van Morrison Band.

10

£4 / £3 (concessions). Tickets from Oriel Wrecsam, 01978 292093

MUSEUM AT NIGHT

Families 7-11

13 – 14 May, time to be confirmed Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives The museum comes alive after dark as former residents haunt the corridors and the objects share their memories with each other. Come along for story-telling, a hands-on visit to see the objects not normally on show and a chance to sleepover in one of the old upstairs courtrooms! £5, including breakfast. Advance booking essential. Tickets from Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives, 01978 297460

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

16+

PHILIP GROSS

www.yearofculture.co.uk

PRINT-TASTIC!

6+

14 May, 10.00am – 12 noon and 1.00pm – 3.00pm Regional Print Centre, Yale College A family-fun printing event for adults and children, in which you can create fantastic artworks using simple printing methods.

Suitable for all abilities. Materials will be provided on the day. £2 each or £5 per family (4) Minimum age 6 years. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Advance booking essential.

Contact the Print Centre, Yale College, 01978 317329 ext 2291 or email canolfanargraffu@yal-wrexham.ac.uk

CREATIVE COLLAGRAPHS (Adult Learners’ Week Event) 17 May, 5.00pm – 6.45pm Oriel Wrecsam Collagraph is a relief printmaking technique. A printing block is made from found materials, such as cardboard, paper, etc. This is then inked up and printed.

Have a go at creating your own collagraph prints, using our mini printing press.

Participants will be able to take their limited edition prints home. £3 / £2 (concessions) Book early to avoid disappointment, 01978 292093

CELEBRATING SONDHEIM 17 and 18 May, 7.30pm ^ Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University LimeLight Productions are proud to mark the eightieth birthday last year of Stephen Sondheim, recognised as the leading living composer lyricist. ‘Celebrating Sondheim’ is a lavish production featuring many of his musical theatre numbers. With a large and talented cast, this is a production not to be missed by devotees of musicals. £10 / £8 (concession), group discounts available. Tickets from Glyndwr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

CATRIN FINCH ANNWN 19 May, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Catrin Finch, ‘The Queen of Harps’ is visiting Wrexham as part of the tour to promote her superb new album, Annwn.

Catrin’s latest offering is a collection of traditional Welsh music, all newlyarranged by herself in an electro modern, and occasionally jazzy, style.

Accompanied by a four piece band, she uses ground-breaking effects. £14 / £10 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

GALA CONCERT 20 May, 7.00pm – 10.00pm ^ University William Aston Hall, Glyndwr The annual Gala Concert performed by members of the Wrexham Music Service County Youth Ensembles, drawn from Wrexham schools. They include bands, orchestras and choirs from junior, intermediate and senior levels. The concert will end with a massed ‘grandfinale’ incorporating all of the youngsters who have performed during the concert.

WREXHAM ARTS FESTIVAL CLOSING EVENT GLYNDWR UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY CHOIR WITH WREXHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 21 May, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University To close Wrexham Arts Festival, Wrexham Symphony Orchestra will accompany the Glyndŵr University Community Choir, and will play the Schubert Symphony in the first half of the programme. Mark Lansom conducts the Schubert and Peter Litman the Mozart. £8 / £6 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University Box Office, 01978 293293

£5 / £3. Pay on the door. i 01978 317625

TRANSCRIBING THE BIBLE

BY HAND! 21, 23 - 28 May, 10.00am – 4.00pm Wrexham Library To celebrate the 400th anniversary of the publishing of the 1611 King James Authorised Version of the Bible, a UKwide project aims to produce a complete hand-written copy. Come to Wrexham Library and copy a few verses, or even a whole chapter if you’ve got time!

Arranged in conjunction with Wrexham churches.

Free drop-in event. All welcome. i Rev. Richard Sharples, 01978 290006

PETER LITMAN

COFIO HYWEL TEIFI

A Talk in Memory of Hywel Teifi Edwards by life-long friend and former Archdruid of Wales, Reverend Meirion Evans 18 May, 7.00pm – 8.00pm Wrexham Library ‘Hywel Teifi’ as he was fondly referred to, was Professor of Welsh at the University of Swansea and an acknowledged expert on the history of the Eisteddfod in Wales. A popular, eloquent and accomplished orator, he was passionate about safeguarding the future of the Welsh language, the heritage of Wales and its cultural institutions. A Welsh language event. £4 / £3 (concessions). Tickets from Oriel Wrecsam, 01978 292093

EXPLORE LINO PRINTING (Adult Learners’ Week Event) 19 May, 5.00pm – 6.45pm Oriel Wrecsam Lino printing was made popular by Pablo Picasso. Participants will be able to create a design on a lino block, carve into this, then print their unique design to take away. £3 / £2 (concessions). Book early to avoid disappointment, 01978 292093

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

11

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

Wrexham Food Week 9 – 13 May LOCAL FOOD FIRST, WREXHAM - FOOD PRODUCERS’ TRAIL 9 May, 11.00am Home Farm, Overton Visit Home Farm and meet the happiest pigs in the county, along with rare breed chickens, ducks and geese. There will be a sausage making demonstration, a tasting session and an opportunity to buy homemade produce. Please wear suitable outdoor footwear.

10 May, 11.00am Aballu Truffles and Veggie Fayre, Rossett Come and share the delights of all things chocolate with Aballu Truffles and Veggie Fayre. Watch as they create truffles and brownies before your very eyes.

10 May, 4.30pm Lewis’s Farm Shop, Eyton Visit Lewis’s Farm Shop for a sausage making demonstration. Learn the secrets of linking sausages and what goes inside them. This visit will offer an insight into how a family farm shop is run.

12 May, 2.00pm Nant Ucha Eggs, Trevor Come along and visit the girls at Nant Ucha Farm. Learn about the family-run free range egg business and how eggs are graded and packaged. Please wear suitable outdoor footwear.

12 May, 5.30pm Just Tea and Coffee, Wrexham Pop along to Just Tea and Coffee and discover the delights of various special blends. Kim will talk you through tastings and give tips on the perfect brew.

13 May, 10.00am BLUE, Wood Cottage Berry Farm, Bettisfield Come for a stroll around the blueberry fields and orchards of Wood Cottage Berry Farm. See first hand how they transform blueberries into delicious BLUE sauces.

Please wear suitable outdoor footwear.

13 May, 2.00pm Erlas Victorian Walled Garden, Wrexham Pop along for a guided walk around the beautiful Erlas Victorian Walled Garden.

Meet the clients who tend the garden and take away some useful vegetable growing tips. Please wear suitable outdoor footwear.

Tickets All Producers’ Food Trail events are free, but places must be booked in advance and only those with tickets will be admitted on the day. Tickets from caroline.dawson@wrexham.gov.uk, 01978 298384. Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel to and from the event.

Directions and further details will be provided with tickets.

‘A TASTE OF WREXHAM’ GALA DINNER 11 May, 7.00pm – 9.30pm Rendezvous Restaurant, Yale College Hosted by ‘Local Food First Wrexham’ this gala dinner is open only to owners and managers of food-related businesses from Wrexham County Borough. Learn about sourcing local produce; savour the threecourse, locally sourced meal; meet the producers; take away recipes to use in your own establishment; enjoy the entertainment and do lots of networking.

Free event, but open to businesses only.

Booking essential.

Contact caroline.dawson@wrexham.gov.uk 01978 298384

12

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

WREXHAM TOWN CENTRE FOOD AND DRINK TRAIL Join our food and drink trail around Wrexham Town centre’s restaurants, cafes and bars and see what Wrexham really has to offer! From soups to cocktails, there is something for everyone!

9 May, from 3pm onwards Café Verdi, Henblas Street Come along and sample a variety of soups and salads!

For more details contact Simon on 07739 798800 12 May, 4.30 pm and 6.30 pm The Bank, High Street Join World Master Bartender finalist Alex, as he demonstrates how to make the perfect cocktail. A demonstration of 3 different cocktails, including a very special Wrexham Year of Culture cocktail!

01978 266669 or email info@thebankwrexham.co.uk The trail is continually being updated.

For more information visit our website at www.yearofculture.co.uk or contact Bethan Richards on 01978 292277

To keep up to date with local food events visit: www.localfoodfirstwrexham.co.uk

www.yearofculture.co.uk

ESCLUSHAM BOWLING CLUB THROUGH THE YEARS, 1933 - 2011

DO IT YOURSELF FASHION

CONGREGATIONAL SINGING

14 May, 10.00am – 4.00pm. (with break) Memorial Art Building, Yale College

15 May, 7.30pm – 10.00pm Capel y Groes, Wrexham

7 May – 4 June, 1pm - 9pm Saturday / Sunday only Esclusham Bowling Club, Vicarage Hill, Rhostyllen

Learn how to customise and personalise unwanted garments into a contemporary fashion piece. For example, old shirts could be turned into a fashionable skirt. Bring along your old, unwanted clothes and go home with something new!

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult

A feast of congregational hymn singing in English and Welsh, conducted by Gwynn Evans, with Robert Parry on the organ.

Collection on the evening in aid of Wrexham and District National Eisteddfod.

Exhibition and Tournament

A true snapshot of local history! The exhibition features photographs and memorabilia that reflect the club’s successes, long demolished buildings and changes in fashion, neatly demonstrating that what was once considered an ‘old man’s’, sport now attracts women and youngsters as well.

The open pairs tournament will run from 7 May – 4 June. i brian.hayes29@talktalk.net 07989 581071 or mike@alanmichael.freeserve.co.uk, 07972 362685 www.esclusham.co.cc Free exhibition

£2 / £5 family (4). Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets from Yale College, 01978 311794, ext 2291.

THINC QUILTS – OPEN DAY 14 May, 10.00am – 3.00pm Art & Design Department, Yale College Come and seek inspiration from the patterns and designs in traditional Welsh quilts and see how creative you can be when using the long-armed quilting machine. £5 per 30 minute session. Book early to avoid disappointment. Art & Design Department, Yale College, canolfanargraffu@yale-wrexham.ac.uk, 01978 317329 ext 2291

Free event, donations on the night. i 01978 351171

JAM SESSION 17 May, 8.30pm – 11.15pm Royal British Legion, Llay Another in the North Wales Jazz Society’s great series of weekly concerts, this time featuring a wide variety of music played by the keyboardsled North Wales Jazz Trio and sitters-in on sax, guitar and more. NWJS Tuesday concerts in Llay continue until the end of June (ex 31 May). £6.50 / £5.50 (concessions) / £3 (sitters-in and children).

Pay on the door. i 01745 812260

PROGRESSION 20 May, 7.30pm ^ The Guild, Glyndwr University

JAKE & ELWOOD ESCLUSHAM BOWLING CLUB THROUGH THE YEARS

X FACTOR LIVE FINAL

THE WRE

7 May, 6.30pm Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog Following open auditions and subsequent heats at The Bryn Howel Hotel, the exciting WreX Factor live final appears at Theatr Stiwt.

The judges include Jennifer Ellison, fresh from her tour of Calendar Girls. The winner will receive a cash prize of £1,000.

14 May, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Jake & Elwood invite you to a Chicago style soul, rhythm and blues musical extravaganza!

With the driving backbeat of the fabulous Black Rhino Band, stunning performances from the Charvelles and a feast of much loved numbers, you’ll be dancing in the aisles within minutes as talent, energy and great music collide! £18.50 / £17.50 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293 www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

The Faction and Hype have joined forces to deliver ‘Progression’ – a showcase of the hottest local talent from the Wrexham area. With bands performing Indie, Metal, Punk, Rock and Acoustic music, as well as live DJs, food and drink, there really is something for everyone. £4 / £5 / £10. Tickets from Danny at The Faction, 07756 378704 or email thefactionwxm@live.co.uk

A CONCERT WITH LLEISIAU CLYWEDOG AND OTHERS 20 May, 7.30pm Capel y Groes, Wrexham

£16 - £25. Tickets from Theatr Stiwt, 01978 841300. www.stiwt.co.uk i auditions@deevalleyevents.co.uk

A Concert with Lleisiau Clywedog and others.

Proceeds in aid of Wrexham and District National Eisteddfod 2011, Rhosddu Eisteddfod Appeal Committee.

TOM DEACON AND CHRIS RAMSEY

£5. Tickets from Siop y Siswrn, Mold, 01352 753200 or Gareth R Williams, 01978 266080

Comedy Night

18+ 11 May, 8.00pm ^ Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University, Wrexham

THE emptySPACE PROJECT Sometime in May Somewhere in Wrexham town centre

Two full Edinburgh sets will be performed in this unique double bill. Tom Deacon, charismatic star of Radio One Sunday nights and one of the hottest tickets in UK standup, joins Chris Ramsey, finalist in the 2008 Chortle Student Comedy Awards, who has just returned from a sell-out run of his first Edinburgh solo stand-up show.

The emptySPACE project aims to put empty buildings to use. Be it an empty shop becoming a studio, or an office playing home to creative workshops, any empty space can be transformed into a vibrant addition to Wrexham’s town centre. The first emptySPACE projects will be arriving in Wrexham in May. Do go and find them!

£7.50 / £5 (concessions). Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293 www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events JAKE & ELWOOD

www.emptyspacewrexham.co.uk i m.corcoran@glyndwr.ac.uk 07964 744458

RADIOFAB! 14 May, 10.00am – 12 noon and 1.00pm – 3.00pm Yale College Radio Studio If you’re 14 – 16 years old, this is your chance to be a radio star!! During the taster session, which is led by a professional commercial radio presenter, you will learn about all aspects of radio, try your hand at presenting a show and see what it’s like to be ‘on air’!

TOM DEACON AND CHRIS RAMSEY

Free event. Advance booking essential. email pl@yale-wrexham.ac.uk, 01978 311794 ext 2525

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

13

Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

OSWESTRY ARTS SOCIETY EXHIBITION

MISTER MERCER 31 May – 31 August ^ Oriel Sycharth Gallery, Glyndwr University

21, 22 and 25 – 30 May, 10.00am – 5.00pm. Chirk Castle

Named after the American archaeologist who built the world’s first concrete castle, ‘Mister Mercer’ is an exhibition by Sarah Macdonald, Eleanor Wright and Richard Whitby. In painting, video and installation they show a predilection for the melancholy of derelict places and strange disruptions of existing forms and images. www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

An opportunity to see, view and even buy the latest works from local artists.

Normal admission charges apply. i 01691 777701

MY FAIR LADY

Free exhibition Mon – Fri, 9.30am – 4.30pm. i 01978 293306

24 – 28 May, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University The longest running musical of all time and a raving success when it first opened in New York.

Full of wit and charm, most of the songs in ‘My Fair Lady’ are about being happy, ‘Wouldn’t It Be Loverly’ and ‘I Could Have Danced All Night’, are only a few in this marvellous musical. Don’t miss Chester Operatic Society’s spectacular, debut performance for Wrexham’s Year of Culture £14 / £12 (concessions) / £7 (children).

Tickets from Glyndŵr University, 01978 293293, www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

JUNE CALL TO ARMS

MY FAIR LADY

WOODS AND WILDLIFE FAMILY TRAIL 28 May – 5 June (weekends), 10.00am – 5.00pm. Chirk Castle

CHRYSALIS SERIES, GAVIN PROCTOR, PREVIEW AND EXHIBITION 26 May, 6.00pm – 8.00pm (Preview) 27 May – 21 July (Exhibition) Oriel Wrecsam

Explore Chirk Castle’s historic parkland with this trail for all the family. Take a tracker pack with you and discover ancient trees and rare bugs.

Normal admission charges apply. i 01691 777701

Preview, followed by an exhibition of work by emerging artist, Gavin Proctor, shown as part of the Chrysalis Series, which showcases the work of recent graduates from Glyndŵr University’s Fine Art degree course.

1 June, 10.30am – 12 noon (ages 7 – 10) and 1.30pm – 3.30pm (ages 9 – 12) Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives The forces of the King are fast approaching Wrexham. Are you going to stand and fight with Owain Glyndŵr or miserably cower and beg for mercy? Learn the skills of a medieval warrior with Michael Roberts, medieval historian and professional re-enactor. £3. Tickets from Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives, 01978 297460.

GYPSY, ROMA, TRAVELLER HISTORY MONTH 1 – 30 June Various dates and locations

Mon – Wed and Fri 9.30am – 6.45pm, Thurs 12.00 – 6.45pm, Sat 9.30am - 4.00pm Free entry i 01978 292093

Britain’s 300,000 Gypsies, Roma and Travellers have lived, worked and travelled throughout Britain for over 500 years. This month of events celebrating their culture and history aims to help break down the myths and stereotyping that can lead to mistrust and prejudice. i Mr Bryn Hall, 07796 752666 WAY BACK HOME

WAY BACK HOME

Families

30 May, 2.30pm Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog An inter-galactic tale for families and young children. A young boy finds a plane in his cupboard so he flies it until it runs out of petrol and lands on the moon, where he meets a passing Martian. Who is the strange alien? Can they be friends? And how will they find their way back home?

KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES DAY 2 June, 10.00am – 5.00pm Chirk Castle Be presented to Queen Joanne and complete the Knights’ Quest Trail. Train with the royal guard and parade at the Princess Ball.

Normal admission charges apply.

Free entry to children in costume. i 01691 777701

£8 / £6. Tickets from Theatr Stiwt, 01978 841300 www.stiwt.co.uk

GAVIN PROCTOR, CHRYSALIS SERIES

WREXHAM OPEN 2011 KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES DAY

26 May, 6.00pm – 8.00pm, (Exhibition talk and preview) 27 May – 21 July, (Exhibition) Oriel Wrecsam

FIRST MONDAYS, BEAUTIFUL & BEASTLY BATIKS

Oriel Wrecsam’s popular annual open exhibition returns, showing work by a range of artists in all media. Prizes will be awarded to each category of Professional, Amateur and Student artists and a People’s Prize will be awarded to the artwork most admired by visitors to the exhibition.

Exhibition opening times: Mon – Fri 9.30am – 6.45pm, Sat 9.30am - 4.00pm Free entry i 01978 292093

14

6 June, 5.00pm – 6.45pm Oriel Wrecsam Come and try your hand at various batik methods. Create a work that features your own design and then hope for the best while plunging it into the dye bath! No experience necessary.

Class for adults.

MISTER MERCER

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

Free first session then £4 / £3 (concessions).

Book early to avoid disappointment, 01978 292093

www.yearofculture.co.uk

MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Advice & Support for Creative Industries 8 June, 10.00am – 4.00pm ^ University Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr Wrexham’s ever popular ‘Mind Your Own Business’ event is back after a break of 9 years! It is aimed at the creative industries so if you are involved, or have an interest in this sector, do come along.

Organisations exhibiting on the day will be able to provide all sorts of useful advice and support. See the Year of Culture website www.yearofculture.co.uk for details of exhibitors.

Free to visitors. £50 charge to exhibitors. i Year of Culture Team. 01978 667320.

THE BIBLE AS LITERATURE 8 June, 7.00pm – 8.00pm Wrexham Library Our speaker, Gordon Campbell, is Professor of Renaissance Studies at Leeds University and author of ‘The Story of the King James Version 1611-2011’. In this talk he will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the publication of the 1611 King James Authorised Version of the Bible - one of the masterpieces of the English language and surely the greatest literary work ever created. £4 / £3 (concessions). Tickets from Oriel Wrecsam, 01978 292093

THE BLACK OIL BROTHERS IN CONCERT 10 June, 9.00pm – 11.00pm Village Hall, Worthenbury The Black Oil Brothers, an acoustic four-piece band from Chicago, will be appearing at Worthenbury as part of their two week UK tour. They encompass blues, roots, folk and Americana with superb musicianship and harmonies. (Doors open 8.00pm) £10. Tickets from pete@hookerblues.co.uk, 01948 770215

DON’T STOP BELIEVING

ENCORE! A MUSICAL REVUE

11 June, 7.30pm Theatre Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog

15 – 16 June, 7.00pm – 9.00pm Theatr Iâl, Yale College

LHK Productions brings you the ultimate live stage production of the phenomenal ‘GLEE’.

With all your favourite songs, including ‘Rehab’, ‘Walking on Sunshine’ and the one and only ‘Don’t Stop Believing’, we’ll have you dancing in the aisles! (This production is a tribute to Glee and is not affiliated to FOX TV or any associated company.)

‘Encore! A Musical Revue’ will take you on a journey through some of the great musical theatre works, both past and present. From ‘Cabaret’ to ‘Fame’ and ‘Sweet Charity’ to ‘Next to Normal’, there is something for everyone in this Musical Theatre extravaganza.

Not to be missed!

£13 / £11 (concessions). Tickets from Theatr Stiwt, 01978 841300 www.stiwt.co.uk

CAMBRIAN ORCHESTRA AT ST GILES

12+

11 June, Workshop 1.30pm – 5.00pm, Concert 6.30pm – 8.00pm The Salvation Army and ARK Community Centre, Garden Road, Rhosddu, Wrexham Come and sing popular songs in a choral setting. Join in a workshop in the afternoon and learn songs to be included in an evening concert with special guests. Share your day’s achievements with family and friends in the evening, whilst raising money for The Lauren Brown Fund.

Free event, with retiring collection in aid of The Lauren Brown Fund. 01978 311076.

OH! WHAT A LOVELY WAR

11 June, 7.30pm – 9.30pm St Giles’ Church, Wrexham

16 – 25 June, 7.30pm – 9.45pm 25 June (matinee), 2.30pm – 4.45pm Grove Park Theatre, Hill Street, Wrexham

Elgar: Froissart Overture Wagner: Wesendonck Lieder Soprano: Anne Williams-King Schumann: Symphony No. 1, “Spring” Symphony Conductor: Nic Fallowfield

Millions of young men across Europe died in the First World War. Their story and the futility of war are both captured in this mixture of song, satire and drama which was created by Joan Littlewood’s legendary theatre workshop.

£8 / £6 (concessions) / under 16s free.

Tickets from St Giles’ Church, 01978 355808 www.wrexhamparish.org.co.uk

£8 / £4.50 (under 18s).

Tickets from Box Office, 01978 351091 www.groveparktheatre.co.uk

GRESFORD CRAFT GROUP SUMMER SHOWS

FASHION FESTIVAL BROUGHT TO YOU BY SU SU’S

14 – 17 June, 10.30am – 8.30pm (till 6.00pm on 17th) All Saints Parish Church, Gresford and Gresford Memorial Hall

17 June, 7.30pm Rossett Hall Hotel, Rossett, Wrexham

For more than 30 years, craftswomen from across the region have converged weekly on Gresford to take part in traditional domestic textile crafts, including quilting and patchwork. The annual exhibition gives everyone a chance to see what they have created over the past twelve months. All proceeds to charity.

A night of glitz and glamour with music, entertainment and a stunning catwalk show from Wrexham’s newest fashion house, Su Su’s. Bring your friends and join us at Rossett Hall for the glitziest fashion show in north Wales! All proceeds to Hope House Hospice. £10. Tickets from Su Su’s, Yorke Street, Wrexham, 01978 313217

£2.50. i valatbrora@gmail.com, 01978 852856

CHIRK’S WELSH LIBRARY THE BIG SING

£8 / £6 (concessions).

Tickets from Theatre Iâl, Box Office, 01978 311794, Ext 2701

BATTLES ON THE BORDER

15 June, 2.00pm – 4.00pm Chirk Castle

18 June, 10.30am – 3.00pm Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archives

Join Marc Purcell, the National Trust libraries curator, in the historically important library at Chirk Castle. Discover the significance of this Welsh gem as he shows the highlights of the Castle’s collection of Welsh books.

Cwmwd Iâl, the early medieval re-enactment society, will be at the museum all day with battle displays, living history stalls and the chance for you to encounter one of the bloodiest times in Welsh history.

Normal admission charges. i 01691 777701

Free event. i 01978 297460

MAYOR’S CHARITY EVENT PICNIC IN THE PARK AT CHIRK CASTLE Midsummer Concert Featuring the Finest Voices in North Wales 12 June, Gates open 5.30pm, concert starts 7.30pm.

Chirk Castle, Chirk This exclusive event, featuring the Kempster Brothers and the renowned Fron Male Voice Choir (Voices of the valley), will take place in the beautiful grounds of Chirk Castle. Relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings, bring your own chairs, picnics and refreshments and prepare to be entertained by the finest voices in north Wales.

NIC FALLOWFIELD & ANNE WILLIAMS-KING

£12.50 / £9 (concessions) / £35 (family 2 adults + 2 under 18s) / under 5s free.

Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015, www.fronchoir.com, Hilary, 01691 773758 or Nightingale House Hospice 01978 314292 i The Wrexham Year of Culture Team, wyoc@wrexham.gov.uk, 01978 667320

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

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Wrexham Year of Culture 2011

WORMS AND GARDENS AT CHIRK CASTLE

GREEN LIGHT FREE FAMILY WORKSHOPS AT ORIEL WRECSAM

18 June, 10.00am – 5.00pm Chirk Castle

Funky Flowers Workshop

National Garden Scheme Day at Chirk Castle: Come and meet the team who look after this award-winning garden. Introductory talks and tours throughout the day.

Worm Charming Day: Worms are great and every garden needs them. Enter the worm charming competition and try your best to coax these wriggly wonders out of the ground.

Normal admission charges. i 01691 777701

RHOS MALE VOICE CHOIR AND TREORCHY MALE VOICE CHOIR Choral Extravaganza

18 June, 7.00pm – 10.00pm Theatr Stiwt, Rhosllanerchrugog A fantastic evening of choral singing featuring two superb choirs, along with guest soloist and local soprano, Clair Phillips. Don’t miss this chance to hear Wales united through song! £10. Tickets from rmvcweb@gmail.com.

Hywel Dodd, 07817 809377

WREXHAM REFUGEE WEEK 18 – 26 June Various times and locations Different pasts, shared future: here’s a unique opportunity to discover and celebrate the contribution that refugees bring to the UK. Events during the week will explore refugee experiences and whether you’re into the arts, music, food or just meeting people, there’ll be something to interest you. i Refugee Diversity Wrexham, refugeediversitywrexham@yahoo.co.uk

MIDSUMMER SUNRISE WALK 21 June, sunrise (call for details) Chirk Castle See the sun rise over Chirk Castle’s historic parkland on the longest day of the year.

Enjoy a guided walk with the Head Warden, followed by a delicious full Welsh breakfast. £15 (includes breakfast), booking essential.

Tickets from 01691 777701

GREEN LIGHT 21 June – 26 July Wrexham Library Community Gallery

FUNKY FLOWERS Green Light is a twinning project funded by the British Council, which links Wrexham with Raciborz in Poland. The purpose of Green Light is to share good practice in environmental education and this exhibition of work by young people from across Wrexham, showcases some of the environmental artwork produced throughout the project. It forms part of the larger Green Light Festival.

Free entry Mon – Fri 9.00am – 7.00pm, Sat 9.00 – 4.00pm

16

25 June, 1.00pm – 3.00pm Learn how to make fantastic funky flowers from old pop bottles. Please bring your own plastic bottles if possible.

Precious Objects Workshop 28 June, 5.00pm – 6.30pm Consider notions of ‘treasured’, ‘cherished’ and the previous life of objects before breathing new creative life into a discarded book and making your own exquisite 3D ‘book work’ to take home.

Sock Puppets Workshop 30 June, 5.00pm – 6.30pm Bring along some old (clean!) socks to make your very own sock puppets!

All Green Light workshops are free, but it essential to reserve a place.

Oriel.learning@wrecsam.gov.uk, 01978 292093

THE ORCHESTRA OF WELSH NATIONAL OPERA An Evening of Operatic and Orchestral Highlights 22 June, 7.30pm William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University This evening of operatic highlights, brought to life by the world-class Orchestra of Welsh National Opera, is a perfect^night out for opera-lovers and also those new to opera.

Soprano: Naomi Harvey Tenor: Geraint Dodd Conductor: James Lowe Special chamber concerts will also take place at Wrexham County Borough Museum.

Visit wno.org.uk/wrexham for details Balcony £15, mid and rear stalls £12 / £10 (concessions), front stalls £9 / £7 (concessions) Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015

WREXHAM AND BORDERLANDS BUSINESS FAIR 22 June, 10.30am – 3.30pm ^ Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University Business Fairs UK invites you to this exhibition, which will showcase around 40 companies from a wide variety of business sectors. Also workshops and demonstrations; sales and marketing clinics; ‘Ask the Expert’; business advice and information; business start-up advice; networking zones and other special attractions.

THE ORCHESTRA OF WELSH NATIONAL OPERA

CRANFORD 25 June, 7.30pm Erddig, Wrexham Brush off your bustle and fasten your bonnets as Chapterhouse Theatre Company whisks you off to the sleepy village of Cranford. Set deep in tranquil countryside, this most traditional tale of snobbery, gossip and social scandal pits lost loves against old friends with sensational results. Enjoy the glorious setting of the Rose Garden at Erddig and bring a picnic to eat before the show starts. Gates open at 6.30pm. £12 / £8 (children) / £35 (family). Booking is essential. Tickets from 01978 355314.

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA Choral Singing Day 25 June, 10.30am – 3.30pm Memorial Hall, Wrexham Join WNO’s dynamic vocal team as they lead you into the wonderful world of opera and teach you what is sung on stage. Learn from the professionals while having fun with family, friends and neighbours. You don’t need to be able to read music - all you need is a passion for singing! (Part of Welsh National Opera’s Wrexham residency.) £5. Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE 28 – 30 June, 7.00pm – 10.00pm Erddig Hall, Wrexham In partnership with Erddig Hall, The National Trust and Rendezvous restaurant, students from the Performing Arts Department at Yale College invite you to enjoy a performance of the greatest romance story ever told. Bring your blankets, lounge chairs, parasols and picnics and enjoy a summer evening in true Regency style. Alternatively you could take advantage of the genuine Georgian cuisine, prepared just for you by Yale’s finest, from traditional recipes.

Free to visitors. i kathy@businessfairsuk.com, 0151 709 8932.

To purchase exhibition space visit www.businessfairsuk.com

£10 Tickets from Phil McCracken, plm@yale-wrexham.ac.uk 01978 311794 ext 3267

ARTISTS OF WELSH NATIONAL OPERA The Chorus in Concert

UNDERSTANDING ART MADE IN WALES 29 June, (also 14 May, see P10)

24 June, 7.30pm ^ William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Spend an uplifting summer’s evening in the company of the world-class Chorus of Welsh National Opera as they take centre-stage. The 40strong chorus will perform a programme of classics covering the entire range of human emotion. You can expect to hear familiar operatic and classical gems, numbers from musicals and operetta, as well as some lesser known treats. (Part of Welsh National Opera’s Wrexham residency.)

Balcony £15, mid and rear stalls £12 / £10 (concessions), front stalls £9 / £7 (concessions). Tickets from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015

Principal Sponsor Eagles Meadow

STARS OF SONG AND DANCE IN CONCERT 30 June, 7.30pm – 10.00pm William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Featuring Rhos Male Voice Choir, Lydia Griffiths (West End performer and Wrexham Year of Culture patron), Sky 1's ‘Got to Dance 2011’ finalist ALLEVIATE with Rhosnesni High School band and choir.

£10. Tickets from choir members, Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, 01978 292015, or Rhosnesni High School, 01978 340840.