Alfie Boe and Van Morrison to star in International Eisteddfod’s 2018 Concert Series

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has announced its star-studded concert line-up for 2018, featuring performances from best-selling artist, Alfie Boe, prolific recording artist, Van Morrison, renowned baroque instrumental group, Red Priest, and award winning Welsh folk band, Calan.

The Festival will run from Tuesday 3rd July – Sunday 8th July 2018 and tickets for the main concert series will be available to Festival Pass holders and Friends of the Eisteddfod from 9.30am today [TUESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER]. Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 9.30am on Thursday 14th December online or via the box office on 01978 862 001.

Anyone purchasing a membership to the Friends of the Eisteddfod during the two-week priority booking period will also gain access to advance tickets.

Alfie Boe in Concert

The 2018 event will open on Tuesday 3rd July, with one of Britain’s biggest selling, most popular and best loved vocalists of a generation, Alfie Boe. The hugely successful recording artist and West End, Broadway sensation will be joined by his ensemble of stellar musicians, showcasing his best loved songs and communicating his joy of music, promising spectators an unforgettable evening of showmanship.

The Classical Collection

On Wednesday 4th July, finalists of the renowned International Voice of the Future Competition, which aims to advance the career of young singers, will entice the audience with breathtaking performances as they compete for the prestigious title and a share of the £10,000 prize fund, which has generously been donated by Pendine Park and the Bryn Terfel Foundation for the second year in a row.

While the judges deliberate on the finalists’ performances, the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod’s newly appointed Music Director, Vicky Yannoula, will take to the piano alongside acclaimed pianist Peter Jablonski in a moving collaboration inspired by the power and magic of the piano – so be prepared for musical fireworks!

International Celebration with special guests Calan

International competitors from across the globe will unite on Thursday 5th July, promising an immersive sea of vibrant colours and eclectic sounds, as they weave through the audience with their giant flags in the captivating Procession of the Nations.

The evening will explore the International Eisteddfod’s unique founding values of sharing music, dance, peace and friendship, with children from a local school presenting a message of goodwill to the world in the delivery of the 2018 Peace Message.

Special guests for the evening award winning band, Calan, will set feet tapping with their quirky interpretation of Welsh folk music. The five-piece band will come with accordion, harp, guitar, fiddles and Welsh bagpipes, to entrance the audience with their beautiful and haunting melodies.

An Evening with Van Morrison

Friday 6th July will see the unparalleled vocal and songwriting talent, Van Morrison, take to the iconic Royal International Pavilion stage, to perform music from his revered musical catalogue.

One of the most prolific recording artists and live performers in music history, Van Morrison weaves myriad musical influences into his music, including street poetry, jazz improvisation, Irish folk, Afro Celtic Blues wailing, blues, pop, rock, R&B, country and gospel, captivating audiences – it will be an evening not to be missed.

Choir of the World with special guests Red Priest

The Festival’s competitions will reach their exciting climax on Saturday 7th July, with the winners of the international choral competition competing for the titles of Choir of the World 2018 and the prestigious Pavarotti Trophy. Those taking part in the dance categories will participate in the Dance Champions of the World 2018 finals.

Baroque instrumental group, Red Priest, will also contribute to the excitement of the evening as the International Eisteddfod’s special guests. Renowned for their dynamic, charismatic and visionary performances, the talented foursome will captivate the audience with their technical wizardry and showmanship.

Llanfest 2018

The Festival will draw to a close on Sunday 8th July at Llanfest 2018, with exciting headliners and support acts to be announced in the new year.

Music Director of the Festival, Vicky Yannoula, said: “It’s been an exhilarating first few months in my role as Music Director at Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and a real joy to curate my very first concert series, which I feel reflects the musical excellence and diversity of this fantastic event.

“We are proud that this year’s Festival line-up spans genres and generations, crossing the boundaries of age, culture and creed. There really is something for everyone and we’ll be adding even more early in the new year, with the announcement of our Llanfest headliners for 2018.”

Throughout the week there will also be live performances from emerging bands, musicians and street performers from across the globe, as well as activities to entertain the children and food, drink and local craft stalls.

Festival Pass holders and Friends of the Eisteddfod are able to book tickets from today, via a special booking form. Tickets will be on sale to the general public from 9.30am on Thursday 14th December online or via the box office.

To become a Friend of the Eisteddfod and access priority booking, please telephone 01978 862001 or visit www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk/get-involved/become-a-friend.

For regular news and updates about the Festival follow us on Twitter @llangollen_Eist or like our Facebook page Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.