From robots taking over the town to acrobatic performances, local bands, storytelling for children to talks on the future of energy – Llandovery Sheep Festival offers a fun packed agenda of performers and entertainment to suit all ages and tastes.
The festival, which takes place on 20 & 21 September in Llandovery town centre, will include a village show on the Sunday that will showcase local handmade crafts, homemade produce and flower arranging. It’s just 50 pence per entry on the day with children’s section entries free of charge.
From 10am until 10pm there is a full programme of entertainment, all free of charge, in Llandovery’s Market Square and in the main car park. All ages are invited to watch the performers and there’s a chance to join in as well.
Tiago Gambogi and Maggi Swallow are the organisers of the performing arts programme for the festival which includes live music from Llandovery Male Voice Choir, a local Samba band, theatre performances, circus acts and lots more.
Professional dance and theatre performers themselves, Tiago and Maggi have been involved with the Sheep Festival since in returned after Covid and enjoy the challenge each year of putting together a packed programme of entertainment for visitors to enjoy watching and take part in.
Tiago and Maggi said, “This is not just a festival – it’s a chance to see our town and our culture through fresh eyes. It’s about pride, belonging and sharing the creativity of Wales with the world.
“The Performing Arts Programme this year really captures the spirit of the Sheep Festival – playful, inspiring and rooted in community. From mischievous time-travellers and enchanting family shows, to rousing live music and the rhythm of Morris dancing, it’s a joyful mix that brings together imagination, tradition and the thrill of live performance. We’re so excited to share this celebration of creativity right in the heart of Llandovery.”
Music takes centre stage at this year’s Sheep Festival, like never before. The festival is bringing the town to life with a full weekend of live performances across multiple venues. In a collaborative move, local pubs and venues will host a variety of acts from singer-songwriters and acoustic duos to full bands. Christian Aaron Perry, from Llandovery, is responsible for organising the live bands performing at the event.
There will be three talks taking place in the Castle Hotel all day on the Saturday. They are free to attend with no prior booking necessary. The first is a climate forum at 11am where the panel will explore the future of energy for transport, homes and businesses – topics especially relevant to local farmers and homeowners. From 1.30pm join the Physicians of Myddfai on a captivating journey through one of Wales’ most power and mysterious legends. Finally at 3.30pm Aberglasney Gardens’ award winning photographer, Nigel McCall will give a talk about his work.
Llandovery’s Market Square and Castle carpark will be a kaleidoscope of colour during the event with many exhibitors displaying their wares from textiles, arts and crafts as well as locally produced food and drink. The streets of Llandovery will be packed with entertainment and music.
Funding for the performing arts and music programme has been gratefully received from Arts Council of Wales, Tŷ Cerdd, National Lottery Community Fund, Welsh Government, Hybu Llanymddyfri, The King’s Head, the Castle Hotel and the Whitehall.
