Great opportunity to buy that special Christmas present.
All Upcoming Events:
Caerleon Festival volunteers descended…..
Farmers’ Produce & Craft Market December ’24
All Previous Events:
West End Brothers
West Academy
West Academy
West Academy
West Academy offers training in all aspects of the Performing Arts It’s teaching team are professional performers who are passionate about nurturing the talents of young performers. West Academy offer a safe, supportive and enjoyable environment, teaching the disciplines of stage and screen all the while learning transferable life skills.
Velha Bataria Samba Band
Velha Bataria Samba Band is a community Samba Drumming band based in Newport and Chepstow. It was established in 2016 in Chepstow and have done 60+ performances, many of which were local community events. Samba is Afro Brazilian music, it’s origins lie in the dances and religious practices of the West African slaves that were brought to Brazil during Portuguese colonisation in the 1500’s.
Two Hats Trio
Playing to growing, appreciative audiences nationally and internationally, this trio enjoys a solid reputation for classic covers and originals that sound like classics. Live shows combine drums, bass, 6 & 12 string guitars, vocal harmonies with strong and timeless songwriting, often drawing comparisons with the likes of the Kinks and the Squeeze. Get ready for an energetic style of soulful, indie, pop/rock with a definite folky jangle.
The Shoostring Band
The Crawfish Pie Band
This year is becoming a good year for the band, plenty of gigs, cool reviews and some superb venues meeting some lovely people along the way. It is currently a four-piece band, including Ken Dancer, Mike Mason, Adam Dancer and John Dixon. They have a good and varied set lists including Outlaw Country, Blues & Americana & Rock. The Crawfish Pie Band is looking forward to gigging at the Caerleon Festival.
Tarion
TaffyWasAThief
TaffyWasAThief is an entertaining acoustic trio, quirky and inventive. The group bring their own brand of music infused with mischief, madness and mayhem. Their set is eclectic, representing all forms of popular music from blues and rock’n roll to modern pop, all presented with a love, not only of music, but of the spirit of entertainment such that they make your face dance and your feet smile!!
SUMMER CRAFTS ON THE FESTIVAL MEADOW
This is the year that the Caerleon Festival celebrates its 22nd Birthday. Over the years, since the start of the Festival, there has been much activity on the Festival Meadow, that is, apart from music, song and dance, a wide range of fabulous Handmade Crafts ranging from Jewellery, Ceramics, Honey, Watercolour Illustrations, Wood Sculpture, Textiles – the list lengthens each year…...
Silurian
Silurian is a popular dynamic duo based in Usk, Monmouthshire, playing an upbeat, varied and interesting mix of country, rock, folk and blues with a little dose of brit pop for good measure. Covers and original songs. A powerful sound with gritty vocals. Jez Bosanquet - lead vocals and guitar Izzy Brown - cajon, mandolin, banjo, bouzouki, harmonica, tin whistle and backing vocals.
Silurian
Silurian is a popular dynamic duo based in Usk, Monmouthshire, playing an upbeat, varied and interesting mix of country, rock, folk and blues with a little dose of brit pop for go od measure. Covers and original songs. A powerful sound with gritty vocals. Jez Bosanquet - lead vocals and guitar Izzy Brown - cajon, mandolin, banjo, bouzouki, harmonica, tin whistle and backing vocals.
Shoostring
Shoostring is a dynamic and energetic dance group who display a synchronised and unique approach to Appalachian dancing. The side choreograph their own dances, bringing to life the toe-tapping rhythms of American Bluegrass music performed by the Shoostring Band. Appalachian dancing is a form of folk dance developed in the Appalachian mountains of North America, where it is still popular today (the term Appalachian derives from Appalachee, a reference to the indigenous Appalachee native Americans).
Richard Robling
Rhinestone Cowgirls Dance Troupe
Line dancing helps with losing weight because it elevates your heart rate for an extended period of time. When you elevate your heart rate through dancing, your body burns more calories. Different line dances are performed at different levels of intensity. The higher the intensity, the greater calorie burn.
Rhinestone Cowgirls Dance Troupe
Line dancing helps with losing weight because it elevates your heart rate for an extended period of time. When you elevate your heart rate through dancing, your body burns more calories. Different line dances are performed at different levels of intensity. The higher the intensity, the greater calorie burn.
Rebecca Richards
Classically trained pianist and singer songwriter from Pontypool in South Wales, Rebecca Richards is making a name for herself with her gorgeous chord progressions, melody creation and beautiful vocals. Her songs have been described as uplifting and empowering whilst maintaining a bittersweet edge. Her love of music is heavily steeped in country and infused with dashes blues, folk and rock.
Ragsy
Ragsy is a South Wales based singer-songwriter. He appeared on The Voice in 2013 and was mentored by fellow countryman, Sir Tom Jones. Since then, Ragsy has continuously performed at various events, showcases, venues and such festivals as Glastonbury. He also has supported established artists such as The Proclaimers, James Dean Bradfield and Max Boyce. Ragsy’s debut album ‘Ouch!!!’ along with the singles, ‘Morning Sun‘ featuring Sian Evans (Kosheen), ‘Feels Like Home‘ featuring Cwmbach Choir, ‘My Love (Bring out the Guards) & Coming Up For Air‘ featuring Caroline Harrison have received national and international exposure including being named BBC Wales ‘Artist’ of the Week’ on several occasions.
Newport U3A Choir
The Newport SE Wales u3a Choir numbers around 80 enthusiastic members, male and female, who enjoy singing a very varied repertoire including the occasional new composition written especially for this choir. The variety is appreciated by singers and audiences alike and we now have a number of "regular" venues which we return to at least once a year - and sometimes more frequently!
Newport Folk Club
Maharaja Blues
Kit Bennett & James Ashbury
Jack Perrett
Jack Perrett is an indie singer/songwriter from Newport, South Wales. First EP ‘What You Saying?’ under the guidance of Estrons producer Steffan Pringle in release ‘Like A Fever’, saw him tipped to be ‘Big in 2019’ by Fred Perry Subculture and Jack released his2015 to critical acclaim, receiving airplay and playlist status on BBC Radio Wales. Jack’s national promoters This Feeling describing the song as a‘high class out and out indie banger’.
DJ Bobby T
DJ Bobby T is a Caerleon local who has been DJing for 30 years. He likes to play dance music from a range of genres, from disco and funky house to melodic house and breakbeat. Likes to mix fresh originals with dance classics and remixes of popular songs...a unique experience every time that guarantees to keep his audience moving.
Dixieland Swing Band
Chainsaw Dragons
Caerleon Open Studios
Auntie Margaret
Auntie Margaret is a 4-piece, original, Cardiff-based, alternative rock band. Influences include Guns ‘n Roses, Pink Floyd, Queens of the Stone Age, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Hendrix and Arctic Monkeys. Good songs, interesting lyrics, big hooks, catchy choruses, screaming guitars and chunky rhythms - what’s not to like?
Ampersand Collective Band
Ampersand Collective Band is a collective band incorporating musicians from all over Newport and South Wales and functioning as a platform for all genres of musicians to come together and blend their unique musical tastes. Music is to feel, not just to hear. They have recently won an award at the Newport City Radio Love Live Music Awards for the Best Jazz/Blues/Funk category supported by Coleg Gwent.
Amairgin the Gael Branch, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann
Aled & Clarke
Aled Hughes is a singer songwriter originally from North Wales and is now living in Llantwit Major. He has released various singles and four albums that are available online on Amazon, Spotify, YouTube and other online platforms. Many of his songs have been played on radio stations in the UK and abroad. Clarke Alonzi is a fantastic, talented classically trained violinist with Welsh Italian roots.
Pyramid
Tinty and the Bucket Hats
Tinty and the Bucket Hats is a ska, punk group that creates positive energy and tackle children's bullying head on. Its goal is to provide as many schools in Newport with anti-bullying workshops provided by Kidscape. Tinty and the Bucket Hats fundraise through music sales, merchandise and gigs to create awareness around children's bullying.
The Ralities
The Gone Kickers
The Gone Kickers
The Flying Spider Revival
Tanglewood
Stoney Broke
Stoney Broke is a local contemporary band that has been together for over 30 years performing a mixture of original songs and covers with it's own unique brand of energy mayhem and quality music which blends together for a great gig never to be forgotten. It operates as a 3/4 piece band and never fails to entertain.
Ronnie Threechords
Ponthir Recorder Harmonies
Ponthir Recorder Harmomies started in 2016 after my retirement from teaching. The idea was to give anyone a chance of playing an instrument and learning to read music. It has been going for 8 years and although being a small group, we have had the opportunity to perform in many concerts including- St. Cadoc’s Church, Ponthir Baptist Church, The Memory Café, Lodge Farm Church and The Interfaith Golden Rules Devotional at The ICC.
Piping Hot Cwmbran
Piping Hot Cwmbran is a traditional Bagpipes and Drums Band who like to promote their Welsh/Celtic Heritage at every opportunity and this can be seen by their Welsh Dragon glengarry badges down to their Pride of Wales tartan cilts (spelt with a "c" as there is no "k" in the Welsh language).They play at events ranging from birthday parties to weddings, festivals to fetes.
Piping Hot Cwmbran
Phil Millichip
Phil Millichip is a well known singer-songwriter from the South Wales folk scene, who regularly performs at folk clubs and festivals around the country. Audiences enjoy his vast repertoire of well crafted songs, with a current catalogue of his own material, comprising of 4 well received albums to date. This catalogue includes the intensely moving song ‘‘If I Had A Son’‘ which has also been recorded and performed by many other artists, including the late great Vin Garbutt.
Ollie P and Faith
Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren
Kings of Caerleon
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff was started in 2013 and has grown to be a large scale and prominent theatrical force. From the small beginnings of a theatre company, it has developed into a diverse and encompassing School of Performing Arts. It not only nurtures the talent of those desiring to be performers but develops the confidence, builds up skills and creates friendships between those who have little experience in Performing Arts.
Isca Morris Dancers
Isca Morris Dancers
DJ Bobby T
DJ Bobby T is a Caerleon local who has been DJing for 30 years. He likes to play dance music from a range of genres, from disco and funky house to melodic house and breakbeat. Likes to mix fresh originals with dance classics and remixes of popular songs...a unique experience every time that guarantees to keep his audience moving.
Chainsaw Dragons
Caerleon Open Studios
Bois Y Bryn
Bois Y Bryn
Bluesfire Blues Band
Anna Young
Ann & Terry Parsons
Abi Wilson
Tiny Toes Ballet
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff was started in 2013 and has grown to be a large scale and prominent theatrical force. From the small beginnings of a theatre company, it has developed into a diverse and encompassing School of Performing Arts. It not only nurtures the talent of those desiring to be performers but develops the confidence, builds up skills and creates friendships between those who have little experience in Performing Arts.
Jawahir
Jawahir has been performing at this amazing Festival for over 15 years bringing vibrance, energy and colour to even the greyest of days. TheTroupe is known at the Festival for it’s colourful costumes, dramatic headdresses and upbeat music. Most of it’s dances are choregraphed by Jawahir members except for a few which are traditional folk dances.
Harriet Kennerley
Harriet Kennerley is a commercial solicitor by day and a singer-songwriter in her spare time. She loves performing in local pubs, open mics, weddings and farmers’ markets. Harriet’s passion for music was initially inspired by her musical family and in particular, from growing up listening to her grandma performing in a folk band, learning to play the guitar alongside her father and listening to her mother skilfully playing the piano.
Retrospect
Retrospect is a 6 piece Covers Band based in South East Wales. The group play the best popular music from every decade - River Deep Mountain High; Don't Stop Me Now; Town Called Malice; Sex on Fire. Formed in Newport in 2007, Retrospect have played countless gigs ranging from the usual pub and working men’s clubs to three Castles and a Palace - Caerphilly, Caldicot, Hensol and Mathern!
No Road Home
No Road Home is a six-piece blues-rock band from South Wales that started in 2020, gigging regularly and especially across home turf here in Wales. It's roots and hearts are in the blues, but have a solid rock edge to their music, and mixing it up with a touch of soul, a bit of funk, and lots of energy.
Sounds of Revelry
Sounds of Revelry (SoR) is a powerful, fun-loving 4-piece band that delivers an electrifying blend of rock and pop tunes with a touch of edginess and a focus on indie music. It’s repertoire includes an extensive selection of all-time favourite and modern anthems, drawing influence from legendary acts like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Elvis,
The Original Song Book
The Rob Connolly Band
The Rob Connolly Band is an acoustic trio featuring 2 guitars, cajón and 3+ harmonies. Their style has been described as “almost country with a touch of rock’n’roll” with a folky mix of the Eagles, Paul Simon, The Wandering Hearts and the Beautiful South to name a few. The Rob Connolly Band have been playing together for over 8 years gradually honing themselves into a tight, harmonic, acoustic sound based in searching and deep thinking songs.
Monmouth Big Band
Led by Musical Director Mike Prestage, Monmouth Big Band is a highly regarded 19-piece jazz orchestra including two vocalists, with jazz musicians from Monmouthshire and beyond. The Band has an extensive repertoire including tunes composed by Buddy Rich, Count Basie and Duke Ellington from the classic period
The Higher Ground
Lol on the Lawn
Big Sky
Big Sky is a local band that plays roots rock infused with touches of blues, country and psychedelia and one of the few bands containing brothers who have not had an on-stage altercation yet! The band started life as an acoustic 3-piece group about 12 years ago and has slowly transformed into a fully electric 4-piece group with the current line-up having been together for just over 7 years. Big Sky covers everything from traditional folk to classic rock, stopping off at most points in between.
Music from ‘Goldenhair’
Join William Byrne and Laura Hayward together with two of Newport’s local stars., singer and songwriter, Josh Hicks and star of Newport Panto, Elian West at The Priory, for an evening of Music from award winning album - 'Goldenhair' followed by Cabaret. 'Goldenhair' is a song suite setting to music the poetry of renowned Irish poet, James Joyce. The music for this album was composed by Los Angeles-based Golden Globe-nominated Irish composer, Brian Byrne.
Literature Caerleon
Shakespeare’s THE TEMPEST
Shakespeare’s last and great play is a triumphant compilation of intrigue, magic, and humour. Prospero, an exiled Duke with supernatural powers, creates a great storm which sees his enemies shipwrecked on his island. Magic abounds, plots are exposed, and a colourful array of characters gain their deserts. Remember tickets cheaper at the PO. cont...
Pontnewydd Male Choir
On the 28th August 1904 a group of men called a meeting in Upper Cwmbran, a small mining village in south east Wales, anxious to form a male choir. This meeting was held in the Bush Inn public house and the choir was to be known as the Upper Cwmbran United Male Voice Party. It was to be the beginning of a choir that would span a remarkable 120 years.
The Blues Sisters’ Opening Evening Event
Caerleon Festival’s GRAND OPENING
To start the Grand Opening of the CAERLEON FESTIVAL '24 we will be joined by William Byrne and Laura Hayward who have appeared everywhere from London's West End to premier cruises on the high seas. From Andrew Lloyd Webber to Disney; they have delighted audiences near and far with their vocal talents.
Caerleon Festival’s SPRING FAYRE
St David’s Day Celebration
Caerleon’s own MARI LWYD
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & FOOD MARKET
Velha Bataria Samba Band
Velha Bataria Samba Band is a Community Samba Drumming band based in Newport and Chepstow . It was established in 2016 in Chepstow and has made 60+ performances, many of which are local community events. Samba is Afro-Brazilian music, It’s origins lie in the dances and religious practices of the West African slaves that were brought to Brazil during the Portuguese colonisation in the 1500’s.
Two Hats Trio
Playing to growing, appreciative audiences nationally and internationally, the trio enjoy a solid reputation for classic covers and originals that sound like classics. Live shows combine drums, bass, 6 & 12 string guitars, vocal harmonies with strong and timeless songwriting, often drawing comparisons with the likes of the Kinks and the Squeeze.
Tinty and the Buckethats
Tinty and the Buckethats is a ska, punk group that creates positive energy and tackle children’s bullying head on. Their goal is to provide as many schools in Newport with anti-bullying workshops provided by Kidscape. They fundraise through music sales, merchandise and gigs to create awareness around children’s bullying.
The Higher Ground
Tarion
TARION is an all-female original folk/rock band from Abergavenny, Wales. Their tunes are a bit funky, punky, folky and rocky with melodic harmonies and pumping rhythms. Tarion came together a few years ago after meeting up at a local music festival where the group shared a love of live music. They perform across the land regularly at small local events and festivals, anything from open mics to private bookings. Music is in the group’s blood, they love it and live it and at a total age of 220 yrs., they are alive with music!
Tanglewood
TaffyWasAThief
Shoostring
Shoostring is a dynamic and energetic dance group who display a synchronised and unique approach to Appalachian dancing. The side choreograph their own dances, bringing to life the toe-tapping rhythms of American Bluegrass music performed by the Shoostring Band. Appalachian dancing is a form of folk dance developed in the Appalachian mountains of North America, where it is still popular today (the term Appalachian derives from Appalachee, a reference to the indigenous Appalachee native Americans).
Shoestring
Shoostring is a dynamic and energetic dance group who display a synchronised and unique approach to Appalachian dancing. The side choreograph their own dances, bringing to life the toe-tapping rhythms of American Bluegrass music performed by the Shoostring Band. Appalachian dancing is a form of folk dance developed in the Appalachian mountains of North America, where it is still popular today (the term Appalachian derives from Appalachee, a reference to the indigenous Appalachee native Americans).
Ruby Kelly
Ruby Kelly is a singer/songwriter from South Wales who has recently put out an EP called “King Of The World” featuring four original songs which are available to download online. Influenced by The Beatles, The Kinks and Creedence Clearwater Revival, Ruby creates stories with her music that speak to a crowd.
Ronnie Threecords
Ragsy
Ragsy is a South Wales based singer-songwriter. He appeared on The Voice in 2013 and was mentored by fellow countryman, Sir Tom Jones. Since then, Ragsy has continuously performed at various events, showcases, venues and such festivals as Glastonbury. He also has supported established artists such as The Proclaimers, James Dean Bradfield and Max Boyce.
Pyramid
Pyramid is a 3-piece Caerleon based band covering songs from the 60's to the present day. The band play covers from a varied number of artists such as The Eagles, The Rolling Stones, Queen & The Killers, to name but a few. Pyramid have performed at numerous venues on the South Wales music circuit and the members have been playing together for nearly 20 years. With that experience behind them they are a local favourite with their tight 3-part harmony arrangements of songs and know how to get the party started!
Newport Folk Club
Maharaja Blues
Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer from Caerleon who has been performing around the UK since the age of 14. More than 10 years later, Lloyd has become a regular fixture at the Caerleon Festival’s BIG FREE event bringing a mix of upbeat, funky Rock and Pop classics to get all his audiences in the Festival mood.
Lenke
Lenke is a drumming performance group that grew out of the West African Drumming class held on Tuesday lunchtime at Hannah's Music Shop, Chepstow. West African Drumming uses the traditional Djembe and Dun Dun drums and the group is named after the African tree that the finest Djembe of which drums are made. The class has been running for several years and its members come from Gwent, Monmouthsire and Gloucestershire.
Jawahir
Jawahir
Jawahir have been performing at this amazing Festival for over 15yrs bringing vibrance, energy and colour to even the greyest of days. They are known at the Festival for their colourful costumes, dramatic headdresses and upbeat music. Most of the dances are chorigraphed by Jawahir members except for the traditional folk dances. Jawahir are all local women who combine the best of folk traditions with modern influences from around the world. They have been inspired by styles from North Africa, Egypt, Turkey, Armenia, the Balkans and more.
Jack Perrett
iShine Performing Arts
iShine Performing Arts is a theatre group for ages between 4yrs -17yrs. It began it’s journey in 2014 and during that time many shows were produced with some extraordinary young performers. Covid took its toll, understandably but now it is very happy to be back, up and running and looking for more fabulous young people to join the iShine Performing Arts group.
iShine Performing Arts
iShine Performing Arts is a theatre group for ages between 4yrs -17yrs. It began it’s journey in 2014 and during that time many shows were produced with some extraordinary young performers. Covid took its toll, understandably but now it is very happy to be back, up and running and looking for more fabulous young people to join the iShine Performing Arts group.
Huw Knight & Viv Bell
Huw Knight & Viv Bell are two singer songwriter/guitarists who live in Bromyard, Herefordshire. They write and perform their own songs, and their music is a unique blend of vocal harmonies accompanied by dynamic acoustic guitar arrangements. Their style is a mixture of americana, country, folk and rock. They released their debut CD in April 2019. The CD gained many positive reviews and the first run sold out within 8 weeks! Their 2nd CD was released in August 2022 and is already selling well.
Hera Art – Kitchen Worktop
Hera Art – Kitchen Workshop
DJ Bobby T
Dixieland Swing Band
Darren James
Côr y Dreigiau
In the summer of 2006, a call went out for supporters of all the four regions of Rugby…. could you sing in support for your region? Over 80 people answered the call for what was then The Newport Gwent Dragons, for the new S4C reality show Codi Canu. Under the guidance of choir masters Cefin and Rhian Roberts and Tim Rhys-Evan, Côr y Dreigiau, The Dragons Choir, rehearsed for months in the hope of winning the ultimate prize, to sing the National Anthem at the Wales vs England match in the Millennium Stadium.
Côr y Dreigiau
In the summer of 2006, a call went out for supporters of all the four regions of Rugby…. Could you sing in support for your region? Over 80 people answered the call for what was then The Newport Gwent Dragons, for the new S4C reality show Codi Canu. Under the guidance of choir masters Cefin and Rhian Roberts and Tim Rhys-Evan, Côr y Dreigiau, The Dragons Choir, rehearsed for months in the hope of winning the ultimate prize, to sing the National Anthem at the Wales vs England match in the Millennium Stadium.
Ampersand
Ampersand is a collective band incorporating musicians from Newport and South Wales, functioning as a platform for all genres of musicians to come together and blend their unique musical tastes. Music is to feel, not just to hear. It is an eclectic band that loves playing music to everyones taste. It plays mainly reggae, rock, soul and fun.
Amairgin the Gael
Amairgin the Gael is the only Welsh Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. We promote Irish Music and Culture In South Wales. We relaunched in Gwent in collaboration with our good friends at Gwent Music in 2023. Music lessons take place at Malpas Court Primary School Grounds, Whittle Dr, Newport NP20 6NS All ages and abilities are welcome to come to our traditional Irish music classes that run on Tuesday Evenings with a beginners class at 6.30pm and intermediates at 7.30pm. The current charge is £5 per night.
Tiny Toes Ballet
Tiny Toes Ballet offers fun, educational dance classes for a child's first seven years when development is at its prime. Our award-winning, themed classes focus on movement, a child's first language, and enhance everything from motor coordination to rhythm, language, and social skills. The Tiny Toes Ballet programme is tailored and carefully planned to meet the needs of each stage of development. This is exemplified in our Learning Journey keepsake book that you will receive when you begin your classes with us.
The Rogues
The Ponthir Recorder Harmonies
The Ponthir Recorder Harmonies is a small group of recorder players, some of whom have no experience of playing a musical instrument or even reading music. The group have been learning to play varying types of music from classical, carols, baroque and pop - performing at Ponthir W.I, St., at Cadoc’s Church and recently supporting Croesyceiliog Male Voice Choir at a St. David’s Day Concert.
Snakey Buckle
Rokgrass
The Hillbilly brothers Will Lee and Stefan bring some Rokgrass originals to their set list for your entertainment. The Rokgrass Hillbilly Rock Band are certainly different in playing their own style when covering the songs you know but loving a new spin by reworking, mixing rock/bluegrass and rockabilly into the melting pot
Richard Robling
As an admirer of great songwriters of all genres, Richard’s setlist is diverse and designed to please as many as possible. There’ll be songs from the great balladeers of the forties and fifties, from the ‘skiffling’ fifties, the swinging sixties, including the folk scene, up to the present day - and one or two originals. Vocals are accompanied by acoustic guitar.
Richard Dinning
Retro Dogs
Piping Hot
Cwmbran’s Piping Hot is a traditional pipes & drums band. It performs at a variety of events, everything from fetes to funerals! Piping Hot can supply solo pipers, a small pipes and drums ensemble or a full pipes and drums band. Their repertoire consists of tunes old and new and is guaranteed to get your feet tapping.
Piping Hot
Cwmbran’s Piping Hot is a traditional Pipes & Drums band. It performs at a variety of events, everything from fetes to funerals! Piping Hot can supply solo pipers, a small pipes and drums ensemble or a full pipes and drums band. Their repertoire consists of tunes old and new and is guaranteed to get your feet tapping.
Phil Millichip
Phil Millichip is a singer-songwriter and guitarist who has written and recorded many songs. He has performed at many Festivals and Folk Clubs across South Wales and beyond. Many of his songs have been recorded and performed by other artists such as “If I had a Son” covered and recorded by the late great Vin Garbutt.
Peel Your Own Spuds
One-2-Many
Lisa, Nick & James have been performing together for over three years as One-2-Many & are still arguing about who is the ‘One’ in One-2-Many. They are an acoustic covers band playing their own arrangements of popular light rock, blues & country music, from Amy McDonald through to The Waterboys, George Ezra, Old Crow Medicine Show & Bronski Beat, aiming to entertain you with familiar songs with vocals supported by guitar, mandolin, harmonica & percussion.
One-2-Many
Lisa, Nick & James have been performing together for over three years as One-2-Many & are still arguing about who is the ‘One’ in One-2-Many. They are an acoustic covers band playing their own arrangements of popular light rock, blues & country music, from Amy McDonald through to The Waterboys, George Ezra, Old Crow Medicine Show & Bronski Beat, aiming to entertain you with familiar songs with vocals supported by guitar, mandolin, harmonica & percussion.
Mick Griffin Band
Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer from Caerleon who has been performing around the UK since the age of 14. More than 10 years later, Lloyd has become a regular fixture at the Caerleon Festival’s BIG FREE event bringing a mix of upbeat, funky rock and pop classics to get all his audiences in the Festival mood.
Kings Of Caerleon
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff was started in 2013 and has grown to be a large scale and prominent theatrical force. From the small beginnings of a theatre company, it has developed into a diverse and encompassing School of Performing Arts. It not only nurtures the talent of those desiring to be performers but develops the confidence, builds up skills and creates friendships between those who have little experience in Performing Arts.
Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic was started in 2013 and has grown to be a large scale and prominent theatrical force. From the small beginnings of a theatre company , it has grown to be a diverse and encompassing School of Performing Arts . It not only nurtures the talent of those desiring to be performers, but develops the confidence , builds up skills and creates friendships of those who have little experience in Performing Arts and finds the whole experience at the outset perhaps daunting, but soon become regulars relishing and absorbing every opportunity given to them to perform.
Isca Morris Dancers
Isca Morris Dancers is a mixed group which has performed across South East Wales and beyond during the summer months since 1976. In the close season they practice on Wednesday evenings from 8 pm at The Usk Vale, Malpas, Newport. They welcome recruits of all ages, male and female, so why not come and join us? We are a friendly bunch and no previous experience is necessary.
Isca Morris Dancers
Isca Morris Dancers is a mixed side which has performed across South East Wales and beyond during the summer months since 1976. In close season we practice on Wednesday evenings from 8 pm at The Usk Vale, Malpas, Newport. We welcome recruits of all ages, male and female, so why not come and join us? We are a friendly bunch and no previous experience is necessary.
Harriet Kennerley
Harriet, a solicitor from Caerleon loves to perform covers of pop, rock and folk music in her spare time, writes her own songs, plays both the guitar and the piano and has been performing since she was 12yrs old. Harriet usually performs at Open Mics, coffee shops, pubs in the local area and recently been performing regularly at the Cardiff Farmer’s Market. This will be her fourth appearance at the Caerleon Arts Festival!
Double Measure
One shot of folk music, one shot of country, with more than a dash of self-penned songs resulting in a musical cocktail to delight your senses. Double Measure comprises two local singer-songwriters, Sue Skinner and Trevor Valentine, whose harmonies and exquisite fingerpicking will draw the listener into stories of love, loss, intrigue and occasionally mayhem!
DJ Bobby T
CRAFTS ON THE MEADOW
CRAFTS ON THE FESTIVAL MEADOW This is the year that the Caerleon Festival celebrates its 21st Birthday. Over the years, that is, since the start of the Festival, there has been much activity on the Festival Meadow – a field that has been transformed in recent years into a wonder of wildflowers. Apart from music, song and dance – with drums, soloists, choirs and even bells, all have been heard at one time or other and we are set to hear them again this year!
Bois y Bryn
Bois y Bryn
Bluesfire Blues Band
Aled Hughes
Aled Hughes is a singer songwriter originally from North Wales and now living in Llantwit Major. Aled has released various singles and four albums that are available online on Amazon, CD Baby, Spotify, You Tube and other online platforms. Many of his songs have been played on local radio stations in the UK and abroad. He performs a mix of original songs and covers of folk, country and pop songs in English and Welsh from 1750 to contemporary songs with passion and warmth. Welcome to Aled's anthems!
Aled Hughes
Aled Hughes is a singer songwriter originally from North Wales and now living in Llantwit Major. Aled has released various singles and four albums that are available online on Amazon, CD Baby, Spotify, You Tube and other online platforms. Many of his songs have been played on local radio stations in the UK and abroad. He performs a mix of original songs and covers of folk, country and pop songs in English and Welsh from 1750 to contemporary songs with passion and warmth. Welcome to Aled's anthems!
Reverend James & the Swingtown Cowboys
Reverend James and the Swingtown Cowboys is a six-piece Western Swing band based in Cardiff. To describe it's style is basically to say – it’s jazz with a cowboy hat on! From jazz standards, through blues, country, and swing to foot-tappin’ old-timey tunes, this outfit is sure to put a smile on your face.
Retrospect
Retrospect is a 6-piece covers band based in South East Wales. They play the best popular music from every decade - River Deep Mountain High; Don't Stop Me Now; Town Called Malice; Sex on Fire. Formed in Newport in 2007, Retrospect have played countless gigs ranging from the usual pub and working men’s clubs to three Castles and a Palace - Caerphilly, Caldicot, Hensol and Mathern! The line up consists of three talented vocalists, keyboards, bass, guitar and drums.
Sŵn y Gân
Sŵn y Gân is one of Wales’ newest choirs. It has existed for just 18 months and now consists of about 35 amateur and semi- professional singers who meet once a week in Griffithstown, Pontypool. They sing a wide range of music - from Disney to Handel; from Sondheim to Radiohead and their concerts range from last October’s ‘Come to the Cabaret’ with an accompanying band, to forthcoming performances at the Caerleon Festival, a lunchtime recital at Bath Abbey and a visit, as guest choir, to Coventry in July.
Rokgrass Hillbilly Rock Band
CATRIN FINCH CONCERT
Join Catrin, harpist, as she journeys through the adventures and sounds of the music that’s most important to her, woven with anecdotes, chat and insights into the life of an extraordinary harpist. From the most sublime Claire de Lune by Debussy, through Piazzola’s tangos to the fiery joropo of Colombian cowboys and serenity of traditional Welsh folk tunes, the extraordinary diversity and range of harp and harpist make for a wonderful evening in the company of Catrin Finch.
Celebrating 21 Years of the Caerleon Festival
Big Sky
Big Sky is a local band that plays roots rock infused with touches of blues, country and psychedelia and one of the few bands containing brothers who have not had an on-stage altercation, yet, It started life as an acoustic 3-piece about 10 years ago and has slowly transformed into a fully electric 4-piece with the current line-up having been together for just over 6 years. The group covers everything from traditional folk to classic rock, stopping off at most points in between and also perform their own material having played a gig at Bristol's prestigious venue 'The Fleece'.
Monmouth Big Band
Monmouth Big Band is a highly-regarded 19-piece jazz orchestra with musicians and vocalists from Monmouthshire and beyond. It plays a huge variety of big band tunes, ranging from the classic repertoire of Count Basie, Buddy Rich and Duke Ellington, through to contemporary numbers, including Thad Jones and Charles Mingus arrangements.
LIT. on the LAWN
Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT
Chepstow Male Voice Choir
Chepstow Male Voice Choir has been wowing audiences home and abroad for over thirty years, building an enviable reputation for its brilliant sound and polished performances. It is renowned for it's extensive repertoire and wide ranging choice of songs. There's something for everyone, including pop and rock classics, West End and Broadway show-stoppers, choruses from the world of Grand Opera and national favourites from countries around the world.
Opening of the Caerleon Festival
You are invited to attend the opening ceremony to THE CAERLEON FESTIVAL at The Hanbury Arms at 6.30pm. Everyone is welcomed to see the flag raised signalling the start of all the events that will make up the 21st Caerleon Festival. This will be followed by a performance by trombonist STEVE SMITH at 7.00pm
Blues Sisters
The Blues Sisters, aka the rockin’ Blues Sisters is a 7-piece band, featuring 3 girl harmony singers playing rock-n-roll, swing & country blues. Many original songs are included in the sets written by Dale Callow, the lead guitarist. They have been going in this line up for many years, playing local gigs & festivals on big stages such as last year at The Gloucester Retro Festival.
St David’s Day Celebration
‘Christmas in Caerleon’ – Festival Farmers’ Market
Treorchy Male Choir
The World famous Treorchy Male choir has now recommenced touring again following the pandemic. Sold out concerts have been held in Milford Haven, Carmarthen, Whitchurch in Hampshire, Tidworth,, Nottingham, before a Summer break Autumn sees a full programme from local venue with an Icelandic choir to overnight stays at Eastbourne and Winslow plus St. David's Hall in Cardiff. Details available on website treorchymalechoir.com and on main choir Facebook page. Musical director Stewart Roberts and accompanist Ryan Wood lead the choristers through a varied programme of favourite Male choir pieces from the hymns to musical theatre plus a surprise or two.
The Higher Ground
The BIG FREE Will Smith and Richard Dinning Duo
The BIG FREE Will Smith and Richard Dinning Duo
The BIG FREE Velha Bataria Samba Band
The BIG FREE The Kings of Caerleon
The BIG FREE Tarion
The BIG FREE Snakey Buckle
The BIG FREE Shimai
The BIG FREE Shimai
The BIG FREE Ruby Kelly
The BIG FREE Ronnie Threecords
RONNIE THREECORDS is a singer/songwriter from Beaufort, playing mostly delta blues country picking style. Apart from the Caerleon Festival he is playing at other events including the Music Gazebo at Newport Folk Festival and the Music Gazebo at Abergavenny Steam Rally, the Upton Jazz Festival and the Upton Blues Festival.
The BIG FREE Ronnie Threechords
The BIG FREE Richard Robling
The BIG FREE Pyramid
Pyramid is a 3-piece Caerleon-based band covering songs from the 60's to the present day. The band play covers from a varied number of artists such as The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Queen and The Killers to name a few. Their 3 part harmonies and performing songs which are not usually covered by most bands really set them aside from a regular covers band.
The BIG FREE Phil Millichip
Phil Millichip is a fine singer/songwriter and a good guitarist, who has performed at many folk clubs and festivals throughout the country. The songs tell stories, many of which have been inspired by the history of South Wales, such as If I had a Son which is about the life of a coal miner and songs like Roman Road inspired by the rich history of Caerleon, and the surrounding area.
The BIG FREE Oxbowlake
The BIG FREE One-2-Many
The BIG FREE Mr. Ben
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
The BIG FREE Lenke Drummers
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
The BIG FREE Jack Perrett
Jack Perrett is an indie singer/songwriter from Newport, South Wales. Jack released his first EP What You Saying? under the guidance of Estrons producer Steffan Pringle in 2015 to critical acclaim, receiving airplay and playlist status on BBC Radio Wales. He went viral in August 2018 when he released Portlife (a parody of Blur’s Parklife) with a video achieving over 130k views
The BIG FREE Ian Lynn Palmer
The BIG FREE Hera Art
The BIG FREE DJ Bobby.T.
The BIG FREE David Hanratty
The BIG FREE Côr y Dreigiau
In the summer of 2006, a call was made to all supporters of the four regions of Welsh Rugby.asking whether anyone could sing in support of their region Over 80 people answered the call in support of Newport Gwent Dragons, it was for the new S4C reality show Codi Canu. Côr y Dreigiau rehearsed for months in the hope of winning the competition and on 17th March, 2007 they sang their hearts out for their region, winning the competition by singing with pride the Welsh National Anthem in front of a capacity crowd of over 70,000 people.
The BIG FREE Côr y Dreigiau
In the summer of 2006, a call was made to all supporters of the four regions of Welsh Rugby.asking whether anyone could sing in support of their region Over 80 people answered the call in support of Newport Gwent Dragons, it was for the new S4C reality show Codi Canu. Côr y Dreigiau rehearsed for months in the hope of winning the competition and on 17th March, 2007 Côr y Dreigiau sang their hearts out for their region, winning the competition by singing with pride the Welsh National Anthem in front of a capacity crowd of over 70,000 people.
The BIG FREE Bluesfire Blues Band
The BIG FREE Anna Young
Anna Young is a singer/songwriter who settled in Wales over a year ago and has played across London and the South West. She plays a mixture of covers and originals and you can find her self-released EP Silly Heart online at CD Baby, Spotify and YouTube. Anna’s drummer is Heather Price and together they play a mixture of pop and folk, with influences of the Americana sound.
The BIG FREE Amairgin the Gael
Amairgin the Gael is the only branch of Comhaltas in Wales. Comhaltas is an international organisation promoting traditional Irish music and dance around the world. They meet in St Julian’s Methodist Church Hall on Tuesday evenings during school term times, for beginners’ and improvers’ teaching (all ages), and also hold regular Irish Music Sessions in Newport on the first Friday of the month See their website for details. All are welcome.
The BIG FREE Newport Folk Club
The BIG FREE Tiny Toes Ballet
Tiny Toes Ballet run award-winning adventure themed dance classes for children from 6 months to 7 years. The classes take children on a Magical Adventure every week whilst learning to dance with a syllabus that is fully integrated with the EYFS developmental framework that is used in schools and nurseries.
The BIG FREE The Two Hats Trio
The BIG FREE Tanglewood
Tanglewood is an acoustic duo based in Pentyrch, near Cardiff. They have been performing regularly in concerts and festivals in South Wales as well as at various venues in the Midlands and the North of England. Over the last eight years they have made over 500 live performances and have developed a very wide and eclectic repertoire consisting of traditional folk music, more contemporary acoustic songs as well as original songs.
The BIG FREE TaffyWasAThief
TaffyWasAThief is an entertaining trio, quirky and inventive bringing their own brand of music infused with mischief, madness and mayhem. Their set is eclectic, representing all forms of popular music from blues and rock’n roll to modern pop, all presented with a love not only of music but of the spirit of entertainment such that they make your face dance and feet smile!!
The BIG FREE Snow on the Mountain
The BIG FREE Snow on the Mountain
The BIG FREE Retro Dogs
Retro Dogs is a band that was formed during lockdown with musicians from Gloucester, Somerset, Herefordshire, Newport and the Forest of Dean. Retro Dogs love to play rock and pop tunes from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s that are not always played by cover bands. There is always a sprinkling of uptempo original tunes and ballads aimed at getting people dancing.
The BIG FREE Nigel Philip Davies
Nigel Philip Davies has shared the bill with Glastonbury legends, Stackridge, Simple Minds, Terrafolk , The Strawbs, Adrian Edmondson, Ricky Warwick of the Almighty and Thin Lizzy and the The Bad Shepherds. I have also played festival slots with Nick Harper, The Storys, Amy Wadge and Cerys Matthews.
The BIG FREE Maharaja Blues
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
The BIG FREE Knight & Bell
Knight & Bell write and perform their own songs, and their music is a unique blend of vocal harmonies accompanied by dynamic acoustic guitar arrangements. Viv writes a lot of songs about her homeland in the North East of England. They released their debut CD in April 2019. The CD gained many positive reviews and the first run sold out within 8 weeks!
The BIG FREE Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic is a Theatre School, Musical Theatre Company & Youth Academy working throughout Cardiff and the surrounding areas. Kinetics‘ aim is to equip performers with the skills and experiences needed to enter the performing arts industry with the ethos of training whilst performing.Performers aged between 6-16yrs
The BIG FREE Kinetic Theatre Arts Cardiff
Kinetic is a Theatre School, Musical Theatre Company & Youth Academy working throughout Cardiff and the surrounding areas. Kinetics' aim is to equip performers with the skills and experiences needed to enter the performing arts industry with the ethos of training whilst performing. Performers 6-16yrs
The BIG FREE Katielou
The BIG FREE Hera Art
The BIG FREE Harriet Kennerley
Harriet Kennerley has a passion for music and performance! She taught herself to play the guitar when she was thirteen years old and sinceThe three words that would best describe Harriet Kennerley are; energetic, passionate and creative and she is very much looking forward to bringing her energy and enthusiasm for performance to the Caerleon Arts Festival this summer. then has been performing as an independent folk-pop artist, writing her own songs.
The BIG FREE Harriet Kennerley
Harriet Kennerley has a passion for music and performance! She taught herself to play the guitar when she was thirteen years old and since then has been performing as an independent folk-pop artist, writing her own songs. The three words that would best describe Harriet Kennerley are; energetic, passionate and creative and she is very much looking forward to bringing her energy and enthusiasm for performance to the Caerleon Arts Festival this summer.
The BIG FREE DJ Bobby T
The BIG FREE Dixieland Swing Band
The BIG FREE Crisis Talks
The BIG FREE Cân Aderyn Singers
The BIG FREE Cân Aderyn Singers
The BIG FREE Calamity
The BIG FREE Bois Y Bryn
The BIG FREE Bois y Bryn
The BIG FREE Blind River Scare
The BIG FREE Aled Hughes
Aled Hughes is a singer songwriter originally from Llandudno Junction in North Wales. He worked as a Welsh tutor in Coleg Gwent and Newport Council before moving to Llantwit Major. Aled has released various singles and four albums that are available online on Amazon, CD Baby, Spotify, YouTube and other online platforms.
The BIG FREE Aled Hughes
The BIG FREE – Cabin Fever
Crafts on the Festival Meadow
Over the years, that is, since the start of the Festival, there has been much activity on the Festival Meadow – a field that has been transformed in recent years into a wonder of wildflowers. Apart from music, song and dance – with drums, soloists, choirs and even bells, all have been heard at one time or other and we are set to hear them again this year!
Big Sky
The BIG SKY started life as an acoustic 3-piece band about 10 years ago and it has slowly transformed into a fully electric 4-piece group. The current line-up has been together for just over 5 years. The band covers everything from traditional folk to classic rock with stopping off at points in between.
Retrospect Band (Supported by The Rogues)
Morriston Orpheus Choir
The internationally-acclaimed Welsh Male Voice choir enjoys a worldwide reputation as a leading exponent of male choral singing. Under it's Musical Director, CONAL BEMBRIDGE-SAYERS, the choir boasts a vast repertoire and performs in English, Welsh and many other languages. Despite the pandemic the Choir managed to record three singles remotely and made headlines with its early adoption of Zoom for rehearsals.
The Higher Ground
2022 Schools’ Art Awards
Caerleon Schools’ Arts has always been supported by the four local Primary Schools and the Caerleon Comprehensive School. This year school staff were asked to select art work that showed the very best response to class work from over the past year. The Festival is pleased that Jayne Bryant AM has agreed to present the awards.
RED HOT POKERS
The RED HOT POKERS are four talented musicians who have played with artists such as Alex Harvey, Van Morrison, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Tom Jones. They have also shared stages with B.B. King and Eric Clapton to mention just two. An amazing band best known for being part of Van Morrison’s backing band.
Historic Walk Around Caerleon
AN INVITATION to take an intriguing and informative afternoon walk around the streets of Caerleon, visiting the places linked to the Great War (1914-1918) and hearing about the people who lived and died during that period – now beyond living memory. The walk will be led by experienced guide, Steve Cocks.
‘Lit. on the Lawn’ – Comic Verse
Very excited to confirm that this year after a break of several years Caerleon Festival is re-launching the COMIC VERSE event with PRIZES to be won. This event is part of the ‘Lit. on the Lawn’ weekend where finalists will be invited to attend an afternoon of mirth and music to read their ‘Best of the Verse’.entries. Spread the word out there to all those poets with a very strong sense of humour!! We all need a laugh!
LIT. on the LAWN a day with the AUTHORS. An evening with ARTHUR SMITH
The FESTIVAL PLAYERS – Shakespeare’s A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
FESTIVAL PLAYERS - Patron: Dame Judi Dench. This will be preceded by the Côr Meibion Caldicot Male Voice Choir at 6.15pm - 7pm. A truly wonderful opportunity to see an open air performance in an unique setting. Picnics welcome. Bring your own seats/rugs. Bar & Food on site courtesy of The Priory Hotel.
Côr Meibion Caldicot – Caldicot Male Voice Choir
THE OPENING CEREMONY of the CAERLEON FESTIVAL
Spiers & Boden – UK Tour June ‘22
Described by The Guardian as ‘the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene’, Spiers & Boden first rocketed onto the music scene in 2001, quickly winning a clutch of BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and going on to form and front the extraordinarily successful folk big band Bellowhead. The duo reformed in 2021 after a seven-year hiatus, arriving with a brand new album ‘Fallow Ground’ which went on to reach number 3 in September ‘21’s Official Folk Albums Chart and was a Mojo top 10 folk album of 2021.
Daoirí Farrell his SPRING 2022 UK & Ireland Tour
The Caerleon Festival welcomes Daoirí, one of the most important traditional singers to emerge in the last decade. This is a return performance as he last appeared in Caerleon in 2017. Singer and bouzouki player Daoirí (pronounced ‘Derry’) Farrell won two prestigious BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2017, and performed live at the awards ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall, as well as receiving three nominations in the 2019 RTÉ Folk Awards
STALLHOLDERS for 2021 Caerleon Festival’s FARMERS’ MARKET
Belshazzar’s Feast
On tour with their celebrated Christmas show that mixes traditional folk music, seasonal material, stirring in classical, pop and music hall, all topped off with audience participation and lashings of wry humour, Paul Sartin (Bellowhead / Faustus) and Paul Hutchinson (Hoover The Dog) together have wowed audiences across the world with their eclectic and eccentric mix of tunes and between songs chat, that always sends audiences home with smiles on their faces. ‘Their music is breathtaking and wickedly inventive and the between-tunes interchange as intelligent and hilarious as the music.’ Mike Harding
Richard Digance
Sarah McQuaid
The BIG FREE Velha Bataria Samba Band
The BIG FREE Undercover
The BIG FREE Ronnie Threechords
The BIG FREE Ragsy
The BIG FREE iShine Performing Arts & Newport K-Pop Dance Group
iShine Performing Arts is a performing arts group for ages 3 and over. They have been performing in Newport and Cwmbran for 6 years now and are always looking for children who love to sing, dance and perform. Newport KPop started their Kpop dance classes in February 2019 and the 3 classes filled very quickly with young people who love k-pop music and dance.
The BIG FREE Big Sky
Big Sky is a local band that plays roots rock, infused with touches of blues, country and psychedelia. The band covers everything from traditional folk to classic rock, stopping off at most points in between. They also perform their own material having played a gig at Bristol's prestigious venue The Fleece.
The BIG FREE The Workshop Band
The Workshop Band has been together in various guises for over 10yrs. During that time it has supported big names in the blues genre including Buddy Whittington, Danny Bryant and Mick Pini. The Workshop Band's music has influences that include Cream, Free, early Fleetwood Mac, J. J. Cale, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Chuck Berry and the Rolling Stones. They have headlined a Cwmbran Big Event, free gigs for Help for Heroes and Cancer Research besides playing at many other Festivals.
The BIG FREE TaffyWasAThief
The BIG FREE Nigel Davies & the Good Companions
The band has been established on the Welsh Folk Rock scene for over 10 years sharing the stage with such luminaries as Amy Wadge, Adrian Edmondson and The Bad Shepherds, The Strawbs and Simple Minds. The Good Companions play a blend of Celtic traditional songs and reels along with some Americana and originals in the same vein.
The BIG FREE Kinetic Theatre Arts
Kinetic Theatre Arts’ aim is to equip performers with the skills and experiences needed to enter the performing arts industry with the ethos of training whilst performing. It provides a vast range of performance opportunities enabling them to put into practice a range of skills whilst nurturing confidence, stage awareness and ability.
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
The BIG FREE Innovence
Innovence, is a four-piece alt-rock band, formed in 2009 and hailing from Caerleon. Taking inspiration from such groups/musicians as Coldplay, Pink Floyd, and Bruce Springsteen, the band has performed throughout the UK and are now back once again for a special performance at the Caerleon Arts Festival.
The BIG FREE Harriet Kennerley
The BIG FREE Free Beer
The BIG FREE Dixieland Swing Band
The BIG FREE Dinning & Co.
The BIG FREE Cân Aderyn Singers
The BIG FREE Cân Aderyn Singers
The BIG FREE Calamity
The BIG FREE Bluesfire
The BIG FREE Blind River Scare
Tim Manning writes heartfelt tales of love, loss and life coupled with proper song-craft that sounds both timeless and contemporary. In promoting releases such as Killing Time, The Straight and True, The Point Of No Return and Pastures New in the good old fashioned way has seen Tim travel the length and breadth of the country, both headlining and supporting touring acts. In doing so he has created a distinct niche for himself on the UK music scene.
The BIG FREE Aled Hughes
Aled Hughes is a singer songwriter originally from Llandudno Junction in North Wales. He has released singles and three albums that are available online on Amazon, CD Baby, Spotify, You Tube and other online platforms. He performs songs from the 40’s onwards and traditional Welsh songs as well as his self-penned songs in a folk-pop-country style with passion and warmth.
The BIG FREE Tobias Robertson
Morriston Orpeus Choir
The Choir is approaching its 85th birthday, having been formed in 1935 in what was then a small industrial town outside Swansea. Under its current Musical Director, Joy Amman-Davies, the choir performs a wide variety of music in English, Welsh and other languages. It has amassed a vast repertoire that includes gospel music, West End favourites, operatic pieces, religious material, and of course the Welsh classics. There is an ongoing process to introduce new works and to re-visit and hone the existing numbers.
The Rob Connolly Band
Andy, Naomi, Mike and Jill make up “Rob Connolly”, an acoustic foursome playing contemporary folk in the style of the Eagles, Paul Simon, Beautiful South and The Indigo Girls. They tackle issues of life, love and loss and everything in between with energy, commitment and loads of gorgeous harmonies. In the last year they have gone from strength to strength playing knockout sets in their home town of Chepstow as well as several local festivals.
Allegria Band performing Gypsy Jazz & Gypsy Rhumba
Allegria was formed 20 years ago in Newport, following a meeting of musician friends at a party where it soon became evident that there was a common interest in musical genres such as Jazz Manouche with Django Reinhardt being it’s main exponent and latin and gypsy rhumba popularised mostly by the Gypsy Kings.
Berry, Carlson & Griffiths, the ex-Tres Hombres
Lit on the Lawn
Côr Meibion Caldicot
Côr Meibion Caldicot is one of the leading and larger Male Voice Choirs in Wales and is ideally placed to perform throughout much of South Wales, the Midlands and the West Country. It sings pieces in Welsh, English, German, Italian and if the South African National Anthem is included, Afrikaans and Xhosa. They will be performing before the Shakespeare production of Henry V.
Caerleon Festival Opening Ceremony with the Henllys Pipes & Drums; The Blues Sisters
MARI LWYD in CAERLEON 2020
Meet Fr. Christmas at the Hanbury Arms
FESTIVAL FARMERS’ MARKET – Christmas in Caerleon
Richard Digance
By popular demand we are excited to learn that RICHARD is returning to Llanhennock Village Hall for another evening of laughter and song. A great welcome awaits this extraordinary raconteur and musician. 2019 marks 52 years of performing by Richard Digance. With a BAFTA nomination as TV Entertainer of the Year and Gold Award recipient from The British Academy of Composers, he turned his back on show biz for his first love of music and live performance. 4,000 live shows, 62 British tours, 14 books, 3 stage plays, 32 albums and nearly 4 million YouTube visits says it all.
TREORCHY MALE CHOIR with Soloist RHODRI PRYS JONES
The internationally celebrated Treorchy Male Choir has enchanted audiences around the world for more than 130 years. From their Royal Command Performance for Queen Victoria to their appearance at the Royal Variety Show more than a century later, the Choir continues to entertain to celebrated packed houses. The most recorded male voice choir in history with more than ninety albums to their name, Treorchy enjoys an unbeaten competition record and has performed with the likes of Tom Jones, Ella Fitzgerald, Julie Andrews, Burt Bacharach and Shirley Bassey.
Sarah McQuaid
With the release of her new album, the Madrid-born Sarah McQuaid, Chicago-raised, Cornwall-based singer/songwriter has expanded her battery of instruments to include piano, electric guitar and drum, drawing critical raves internationally: Dutch music magazine Heaven hailed it as “an early contender for folk album of 2018,” the UK’s fRoots said it was “a collection to savour” and the USA’s PopMatters called it “a gateway into a true innovator’s soul.”
Swingin’ Bill’s Vintage Revue
The Dai Bach Band
The Dai Bach Band is a group of folk musicians who meet once a month currently in the Bell. They have, in the past, played at various venues throughout Gwent, playing in various groups and bands for the last 30+ years. The Dai Bach Band’s material is mainly traditional Welsh but does include other genres.
The BIG FREE Velha Bataria Samba Band followed by Afro Gwent Collective African Drumming
Velha Bataria is predominantly a drumming band playing a variety of Brazilian Samba instruments, performing a range of upbeat Rio-style music including Samba Reggae, Samba Funk. Original pieces have written by their very talented Musical Director and Band Leader, Noel. This style of music has a real carnival vibe that gives everybody a taste of authentic Brazil and will certainly get you in the mood for dancing!
The BIG FREE Val Newman Landscape Painter
The BIG FREE The Workshop Band
The Workshop Band has been together in various guises for about 10yrs. During that time they have supported big names in the blues genre including Buddy Whitington, Danny Bryant and Mick Pini. Their music has influences that include Cream, Free, early Fleetwood Mac, J. J. Cale, Hendrix, Clapton, Chuck Berry, Rolling Stones et al.
The BIG FREE The Kings of Caerleon
The BIG FREE TaffyWasAThief
TaffyWasAThief is an inventive, quirky trio. Born from the rock of GTFBi this is a quieter and more creative ensemble. Their songs reflect the passion of blues, as they are expressed around the world and use the gritty experience of life in South Wales as their backdrop. It is the blues of the world wrapped in the dirt of the valleys. Plenty of dancy and singalong hooks, great fun and great music.
The BIG FREE Stoney Broke
Formed in Caerleon in 1992 Stoney Broke has been a presence on the local South Wales and West gig circuit for 27 years. They are at home performing in various venues from the big festival stage to the small intimate local pub, and always entertaining; delivering a live show full of thrills that has a comedic twist thrown in for good measure. Stoney Broke perform a rich blend of dynamic covers from the classic to the modern delivered in a unique, anarchic and energetic manner.
The BIG FREE Stephen the Busker
Stephen is an independent, solo acoustic guitarist showcasing his new EP of original work along side some well-loved classics. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica Stephen travelled to the UK to perfect his art and has now made Wales his home with his family in Newport, playing at weddings and festivals all over the UK.
The BIG FREE Snakey Buckle
The BIG FREE Shimai
Shimai are sisters Angharad and Rhiannon Griffiths from Newport. They have enjoyed some exciting gigs in recent months, the highlight being the support for Martin Turner’s band ex-Wishbone Ash as part their UK and European tour. They have a chilled, laid back sound with delicious harmonies, their all original set is a pleasure for music lovers.
The BIG FREE Sarah Emma Hincks
The BIG FREE Ragsy
Ragsy is a South Wales based singer-songwriter. He appeared on The Voice in 2013 and was mentored by fellow countryman, Sir Tom Jones. Since then, Ragsy has continuously performed at various events, showcases, venues and such festivals as Glastonbury. He also has supported established artists such as The Proclaimers, James Dean Bradfield and Max Boyce. His debut album 'Ouch!!!' along with the singles 'Morning Sun', 'Feels Like Home', 'My Love & Coming Up For Air' have received national and International exposure including being named 'BBC Wales Artist' of the Week on several occasions.
The BIG FREE Quince
The BIG FREE Pyramid
Pyramid Pyramid is a three-piece Caerleon based band covering songs from the 60's to the present day. The band play covers from a variety of artists such as the Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, Queen and Ed Sheeran to name a few. Their three-part harmonies and performing songs, which are not usually covered by most bands, really set them apart from regular covers band. Pyramid performs in numerous venues on the South Wales music circuit and can’t wait to rock the Hanbury this year on Sunday night!
The BIG FREE One 2 Many
One-2-Many was formed last year in 2018 as a three-piece Light Acoustic Rock & Country covers band. Lead singer, Lisa Hopkins is joined by two former members of the local favourites, “The Gate Crashers” who with Nicky Dominy & James Dawson, played their final gig at the Caerleon Arts Festival in 2018.
The BIG FREE Newport Mind Choir & Writing Group
Newport Mind Writers have recently published their first book More Than My Mind; a stirring collection of prose and poetry with images from the Newport Mind Photography Group. The Newport mind Choirs are two very different and fantastically creative groups. They perform at many Newport Mind and Community events.
The BIG FREE Newport Folk Club Performers
There’s Bryn Millichip, a keen follower of folk music for many years and has developed into a very accomplished musician in his own right. Paul Brown, has established a good reputation for the high standard of his public performances on the South Wales folk scene. Barry Scouse, a very experienced and well-known performer. His performances are always very entertaining. Tanglewood is an acoustic harmony duo based in Cardiff who have performed regularly in concerts and festivals across South Wales, the Midlands and the North of England.
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer/songwriter from Caerleon, currently studying at the University of Reading. Lloyd is a veteran of live music venues and festivals having gigged regularly since the age of 12. He has performed on radio and in the theatre. Lloyd plays an upbeat set of classic and modern covers with a funky twist.
The BIG FREE Jawahir
Jawahir have been proud to support and take part in the Caerleon Arts Festival for over 15 yrs dancing at both the Bell and the Hanbury Arms. They are a group of like-minded women who meet every week in Newport to enjoy dancing, music and having fun. As a Middle Eastern dance group they combine traditional folk with modern influences from around the world. When watching them you may hear and see influences from Spain, Turkey, Armenia, Algeria and Israel to name a few.
The BIG FREE Jawahir
Jawahir have been proud to support and take part in the Caerleon Arts Festival for over 15 yrs dancing at both the Bell and the Hanbury Arms. They are a group of like-minded women who meet every week in Newport to enjoy dancing, music and having fun. As a Middle Eastern dance group they combine traditional folk with modern influences from around the world. When watching them you may hear and see influences from Spain, Turkey, Armenia, Algeria and Israel to name a few.
The BIG FREE Jack Perrett
The BIG FREE iShine Performing Arts
iShine Performing Arts is for ages 3yrs–17yrs. They meet once a week in Cwmbran and perform two shows a year at the Riverfront Theatre as well as other local events such as the Caerleon Festival. They also have started the first K-Pop (Korean Pop) classes in the area that are becoming highly successful.
The BIG FREE Ian Lynn Palmer
The BIG FREE Hera Art Exhibition & Children’s Art Workshop
The BIG FREE Healey, Rowlands & Haywood
The BIG FREE Gwent Accordion Club
The Gwent Accordion Club is a small group that plays mainly for more mature audiences. Because of the preferences of their Musical Director they play a fair selection of “swing” numbers operating more as a club rather than a commercial band. Nothing pleases them more than to have the audience sing along or dance to their music.
The BIG FREE Côr Afon Lwyd
Côr Afon Lwyd is a choir that sings in Welsh. They use the Welsh language as much as they can in rehearsals so that Welsh learners or Welsh speakers can enjoy using their Welsh. Mae Côr Afon Lwyd yn gôr syn canu yn Gymraeg. Mae nhw’n ddefniddio’r Cymraeg gymaint â phosib mewn ymarferion er mewn i ddysgwyr neu siaradwyr yn Gymraeg yn gallu fwynhau defnyddio’r Cymraeg.
The BIG FREE Brandywine Cloggers Appalachian Bluegrass Dance Team & The Grey River Boys Band
Established in 1991 and based near Newport, Brandywine Cloggers perform a style of high energy, percussive step dance, developed in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern USA, with origins in the folk dances introduced by the settlers. Appalachian clog is a lively, improvisatory dance style encompassing elements of English, Irish, African-American, and Native American footwork and rhythms.
The BIG FREE Bluesfire
BLUESFIRE BLUES BAND is a newly formed blues-rock band from Newport, South Wales. It plays old blues music but with a heavier feel and a bigger sound creating an exciting performance with a more rock intensity, complimenting the deep passion for the blues. Starting in February 2018, BLUESFIRE have been bringing exciting performances to many areas around Wales. They have played at large festivals and venues such as the Bristol Harbour Festival and the Neon Odeon in Newport, both to large audiences.
The BIG FREE Amairgin the Gael
Amairgin the Gael is the only branch of Comhaltas in Wales. Comhaltas is an international organisation promoting Irish music and dance around the world. They meet in St Julian’s Methodist Church Hall on Tuesday evenings during school term times, for beginners’ and improvers’ teaching (all ages), and hold regular Irish Music Sessions in Newport on the first Friday of the month.
The BIG FREE Aled Hughes
The BIG FREE St Cadoc’s Caerleon Bell Ringers
The Charmborough mobile belfry has six bells that are rung in the same way as those in churches and cathedrals throughout the country. It offers a unique opportunity to see the workings of the bells close up. Ringing is open to all ages from 9 to 90 and you don't need to be mathematical or musical. It is open to people of all faiths or no faith. Ringing is a fun, unique hobby that offers not only physical exercise, but also mental agility and working as part of a team.
The BIG FREE Tres Hombres
The BIG FREE Tiny Toes Ballet
The BIG FREE The Intrigue Duo
The BIG FREE The Blues Sisters
In the early days The Blues Sisters played many festivals but split up to take a long break to raise families. They have now decided to reform because of their enthusiasm in playing together as a band. The Blues Sisters have proved hugely popular with their style of music, playing both covers and original material, at many venues & recent festivals.
The BIG FREE Tarion
The BIG FREE St Cadoc’s Caerleon Bell Ringers
The BIG FREE Richard Robling
Richard Robling’s songs come from the great balladeers of the forties and fifties - Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra, the skiffling fifties -Tommy Steele and Guy Mitchell, the swinging sixties - the Beatles and the Kinks etc; also there will be a nod to the folk scene of the likes of Bob Dylan, blues and modern pop songs - even a hymn-like Welsh tune or two and maybe a few original compositions. Something for everyone!!! Vocals are accompanied by acoustic guitar.
The BIG FREE Rhys Hone
The BIG FREE Oxbowlake
The BIG FREE Nicky Cook
The BIG FREE Newport Dixieland & Swing Band
The BIG FREE Morfa
The BIG FREE Mick Griffin Band
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer/songwriter from Caerleon, currently studying at the University of Reading. Lloyd is a veteran of live music venues and festivals having gigged regularly since the age of 12. He has performed on radio and in the theatre. Lloyd plays an upbeat set of classic and modern covers with a funky twist
The BIG FREE Kinetic Theatre Arts
The BIG FREE Kinetic Theatre Arts
The BIG FREE Jawahir
Jawahir have been proud to support and take part in the Caerleon Arts Festival for over 15 yrs dancing at both the Bell and the Hanbury Arms. They are a group of like-minded women who meet every week in Newport to enjoy dancing, music and having fun. As a Middle Eastern dance group they combine traditional folk with modern influences from around the world. When watching them you may hear and see influences from Spain, Turkey, Armenia, Algeria and Israel to name a few.
The BIG FREE Jawahir
Jawahir have been proud to support and take part in the Caerleon Arts Festival for over 15 yrs dancing at both the Bell and the Hanbury Arms. They are a group of like-minded women who meet every week in Newport to enjoy dancing, music and having fun. As a Middle Eastern dance group they combine traditional folk with modern influences from around the world. When watching them you may hear and see influences from Spain, Turkey, Armenia, Algeria and Israel to name a few.
The BIG FREE Huw James
Huw James is a singer/songwriter from the Gwent Valleys of South Wales. He writes in a variety of styles although mostly his songs can be seen to be influenced by a folky, bluesy feel. Huw’s main instrument is guitar which he has been playing since teenage years, along with a bit of bass. He has also added the harmonica to his repertoire to help enhance some of his bluesy feeling tunes.
The BIG FREE Harriet Kennerley
Harriet Kennerley is a twenty-three yr old law student who has a passion for music and performance! She taught herself to play the guitar when she was thirteen years old and since then has been performing as an independent folk-pop artist, writing her own songs. Harriet Kennerley covers many different genres of music, seeking to inspire others with her music whenever possible.
The BIG FREE Gwerinwyr Gwent
The BIG FREE Gwerinwyr Gwent
The BIG FREE Dinning & Co
The BIG FREE Crisis Talks
The BIG FREE Cris and Liz
Cris Bartlett has been a regular performer at Newport Folk Club for many years, with a broad mix of American Country Blues and Ragtime, and traditional Folk songs in his repertoire. He has recently teamed up with Liz Harris who has brought vocal harmony and whistles into the mix, along with her own selection of songs and tunes, providing an enjoyable combination of music and song.
The BIG FREE Côr y Dreigiau – Newport Dragon’s Choir
The BIG FREE Côr y Dreigiau – Newport Dragon’s Choir
The BIG FREE Caitlin Mae
The BIG FREE Big Sky
The BIG FREE Arianne Seignot
Arianne Seignot is a professional musician, graduating from the British Institute of Modern Music in 2016 with a degree in song writing. She has performed in venues such as Cardiff City Stadium and Cardiff Castle, and singing at many festivals up and down the country. Arianne has been in a flexible hiatus for the past three years, but will never turn down an opportunity to perform at the Caerleon Arts Festival.
The BIG FREE – Ollie Powell
Jarzino
With over 170 years of live/recording experience between the principal players, the Collective incorporates an unrivalled professional pedigree. Soul, Pop, Reggae, Rock, Latin ...versatile, dynamic and they are universally acknowledged gurus of groove. Experience the pumped up party vibe ...a truly intoxicating cross-pollination of musical styles rooted in the 60's and 70's.
i.a.t.B Ensemble
Morriston Orpheus Choir
Formed in 1935, the internationally-acclaimed Morriston Orpheus Choir enjoys a reputation as a leading exponent of male choral singing. 2018 saw them touring to Vienna and Krakow, and 2019 is off to a swinging start, with highlights so far including a sell out joint concert with the Briton Ferry Musical Theatre Company at the Gwyn Hall in Neath, and singing onboard the Saga Pearl II cruise ship before she departed on her farewell tour of Africa.
Retrospect
Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band
Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band is a 12-piece classic soul band that has been together since 1990 and played not only all over the UK, including the Marquee Club, the Café Royal, the Rock Garden, Boomtown Festival, Upton Blues and the Dorchester Hotel but also in Vienna, Cairo, Tenerife, Germany and Dublin.
The Rob Connolly Band
Rob Connolly Band is an acoustic guitar foursome from Chepstow, playing a mix of originals and covers by the Eagles, Simon & Garfunkel, the Beautiful South and the Indigo Girls, amongst others. Their first gig was 2 years ago at the Bell Inn, part of the 2017 Caerleon Festival. From then, after two great years, the band has been moved to St Julian’s Inn to front the Festival week.
SONGS of PRAISE at St Cadoc’s Church
“Closely yet uncertainly connected….” Aled Singleton with Marega Palser
Lit on the Lawn
Literature Caerleon, now in its eighth year, is a celebration of literature set within the beautiful grounds of Caerleon’s historic Priory Hotel. It brings together the cream of contemporary writers in Wales and offers a feast of discussion, ideas and thought. A pop-up bookshop will be provided by Chepstow Books. See Programme of speakers.
John Otway
Presenting a hugely exciting and entertaining opportunity to spend an evening with the inimitable (cannot be imitated) and indomitable (stubbornly persistent) John Otway. Coming off his recent ‘Nearly Free” tour of UK dates, John will captivate the audience with his unique style as he has done live, and through his 14 albums, since the 1970’s.
Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing
Monmouthshire and Newport Community Choirs
MARI LWYD
Here in Caerleon the recently revived tradition that is going from strength to strength will, for the first time, have a home-grown team on board with a new magical MARI LWYD. Sat 12th Jan Mari Lwyd Hen Galan Caerleon starting @ 6.00pm from the BELL a torch lit procession to the SHIP, WHITE HART, THE DOG HOUSE & the HANBURY ARMS noson lawen @ the HANBURY 9.00pm COME!
Farmers Christmas Market
Ensemble i.a.t.B
Caerleon Remembers
The BIG FREE Velha Samba Band
The BIG FREE The Gwent Accordion Club
The BIG FREE The Gatecrashers
We welcome The Gatecrashers to join the BIG FREE weekend. They are a four-piece acoustic covers band playing light rock, blues and country music with a unique and engaging sound created by two guitars and a mandolin – augmented with occasional harmonica, tambourine and of course cowbell! With two outstanding vocalists in the band, The Gatecrashers always deliver a memorable set.
The BIG FREE The Blues Sisters
The BIG FREE The Afro Gwent Collective – African Drumming
The BIG FREE Synergy A-Cappella
Synergy is a close-harmony male voice choir – the only such choir in South Wales, differing from a traditional male voice choir in their approach, their choice of songs and their sound. They sing “a-cappella” ie unaccompanied, producing truly beautiful music. Synergy’s ability to charm & delight an audience with their singing is due to a number of factors…….. They are led by their talented gold-medallist Musical Director: Martin Flory who selects the music and teaches it with conviction, aiming at perfect harmony.
The BIG FREE Stoney Broke
Stoney Broke, formed in Caerleon 1992 have been a presence on the local South Wales and West gig circuit for 26 years. They perform a rich blend of dynamic covers from the classic to the modern delivered in a unique anarchic energetic live show not to be missed. They are at home performing in any venue from the big festival stage to the small intimate local pub. They always entertain and deliver a live show full of thrills with a comedic twist thrown in for good measure.
The BIG FREE Shimai
Shimai is an acoustic duo who offer a wealth of self penned songs and beautifully reconstructed covers featuring haunting harmonies and subtle guitar work. Sisters, Angharad and Rhiannon Griffiths are from Newport - the name ‘Shimai’ is Japanese for sisters. They write and perform their own Indie/folk/pop style songs with a smattering of reworked covers, making a blend of sibling harmonies that is quite enchanting, evoking a sense of calm and serenity.
The BIG FREE Sax For Fun
The BIG FREE Rokgrass
The BIG FREE Retrospect
Retrospect is a six-piece covers band based in South East Wales. They play the best popular music from every decade - River Deep, Mountain High; Don't Stop Me Now; Town Called Malice; Sex on Fire. Formed in Newport in 2007, Retrospect have played countless gigs ranging from the usual pub and working men’s clubs to three castles and a palace - Caerphilly, Caldicot, Hensol and Mathern! Their line up consists of male and female vocals, keyboards, bass, guitar and drums. They are a versatile, talented and the ultimate party band.
The BIG FREE Quince
The BIG FREE Pyramid
The BIG FREE Oxbowlake
Oxbowlake is an acoustic folk band from South Wales that have been playing together for about six years. Their first album is out and they managing to gig several times a week. Oxbowlake like to think they give a little comedy, some acoustic poetry and a couple of foot stompers. Its all original and its all for the joy of it!!
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer/songwriter from Caerleon, currently studying at the University of Reading. He is already a veteran of live music venues and festivals having gigged regularly since the age of 12. Lloyd Warren has performed on radio and in the theatre playing an upbeat set of classic and modern covers with a funky twist.
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren is a guitarist and singer/songwriter from Caerleon, currently studying at the University of Reading. He is already a veteran of live music venues and festivals having gigged regularly since the age of 12. He has performed on radio and in the theatre playing an upbeat set of classic and modern covers with a funky twist
The BIG FREE Jack Perrett
Accompanied by his band, Jack Perrett has performed in cities all over the UK including London, Cardiff and Manchester alongside bands such as Judas, Vida and the Sherlocks. Performed at the Beano on the Sea festival in Hastings, which involved iconic Britpop bands Cast, Reef and Echobelly. With the backing of promoters “This Feeling”, Jack is going on a UK tour to kick start what will be a very exciting 2018.
The BIG FREE iShine Performing Arts
iShine is a performing arts group for ages between 3yrs & 17yrs who meet once a week to have fun with singing, drama and dance. Each year they perform two shows at The Riverfront Theatre in Newport as well as taking part in local community events such as Caerleon Festival. They are always looking for more people to join the iShine family, so whether you’d like to be on stage or help behind the scenes, get in touch!
The BIG FREE Ian Lynn Palmer
Ian Lynn Palmer a singer song/writer hailing from Newport in South Wales. He is a singer of alt-country/folk genre songs with a hint of blues, yet always remaining a punk at heart. Nominated for Best Original Song and Best Male Artist at the Love Live Music Awards 2017 he takes his influences from Bruce Springsteen; Bob Dylan; Johnny Cash; Neil Young.
The BIG FREE Ian Luther
Ian Luther is making a welcome return to the Caerleon Festival. It is impossible to pigeon-hole him into any single music genre: he has created his own from a lifetime of listening and performing around the UK and Europe. It takes masterful musicianship to combine different styles of music into a 'must hear' experience, and right there we have the key to what makes Ian a star in waiting. There are many master musicians who would sacrifice some of their mastery for an ounce of the engaging, entertaining ability that Ian brings to any stage performance.
The BIG FREE Côr Afon Lwyd Welsh Folk Choir
Côr Afon Lwyd is a choir that sings in Welsh. They use the Welsh language as much as they can in rehearsals so that Welsh learners or Welsh speakers can enjoy using their Welsh and singing in Welsh too. Dyn ni’n cor sydd yn canu yng Nghymraeg. Dyn ni’n siarad yng Nghymraeg fel arfer. Bydd y her yn ysbrydoli ddysgwyr a siaradwyr Gymraeg i fwynhau defnyddio a chanu Gymraeg.
The BIG FREE Bluesfire
Alex Ainsworth and the Bluesfire Band is primarily a four-piece blues rock band with guest artists of harmonica, saxophone and piano/keyboard creating an exciting and dynamic sound on classic blues routed songs. The band is comprised of two outstanding lead guitarists, Alex Ainsworth and Morgan Reader. Alex quoted by Bob Richards as “one of the best blues guitarists in 20 years”. He has toured around Phuket, Thailand and Morgan quoted as “one of the best blues guitarists in Wales”.
The BIG FREE Art Exhibition “Aspects of Dance”
The BIG FREE Amairgin the Gael
Amairgin the Gael is the only branch of Comhaltas in Wales. Comhaltas is an international organisation promoting Irish music and dance around the world. They meet in St Julian’s Methodist Church Hall on Tuesday evenings during school term times, for beginners’ and improvers’ teaching (all ages), and hold regular Irish Music Sessions in Newport on the first Friday of the month.
The BIG FREE – The Gut Bucket String Band
The BIG FREE – “Filming with a Smart Phone”
Have you thought of trying your hand in making a film? Have you a Smart Phone? Yes? Then the film world is at your feet. There will be workshops on the Festival Field showing you just how it is done. How to shoot exciting cut-aways, access low cost apps and how to tether your content into a finished film.
The BIG FREE – “Filming with a Smart Phone”
Have you thought of trying your hand in making a film? Have you a Smart Phone? Yes? Then the film world is at your feet. There will be workshops on the Festival Field showing you just how it is done. How to shoot exciting cut-aways, access low cost apps and how to tether your content into a finished film. You will then be able to put into practice what you’ve learnt with some fun exercises!
The BIG FREE Yaz Turan
The BIG FREE Tres Hombres
The BIG FREE Snakey Buckle Band
The BIG FREE Shannon Scott & James Perry
Shannon Scott, 19yrs old sings duet with 20yr old acoustic guitarist, James Perry. They like playing chilled and well-known music from Fleetwood Mac to Ed Sheehan. Scott & Perry use acoustic guitar and ukulele in different styles and always make songs their own but with a twist. They are both from Cwmbran South Wales - played music together for three years having both studied at Cross Keys College gaining Level 3 Extended Music Diploma. Scott plans to go to university in September to attend BIMM Bristol, a private institution for musicians.
The BIG FREE Rob Connolly Band
The group known as Rob Connolly is an acoustic foursome singing a mix of pop, folk and rock’n’roll covers and original music using two guitars, a cajon and lots of gorgeous harmonies. They have great commitment to their music so expect lots of energy and passion - and be prepared to join in! Rob Connolly will move you to tears & laughter - a good time will be had by all!
The BIG FREE Platform 1
The Caerleon Festival is pleased to present a three piece, bilingual band called PLATFORM 1, originally from Carmarthenshire but currently based in Bristol. They find it difficult to define an exact genre for their music but it can best be described as - stripped back, melodic, experimental, self penned music with hints of rock, country and folk; using electric, acoustic and bass guitars creating a sound that is often mellow but on occasions, upbeat.
The BIG FREE Phil Millichip
The BIG FREE Omega Two
Jane Williams, originally from Cardigan in West Wales but now residing in Cardiff, has been singing since she was 15 and performing on stage, radio and with bands in Welsh and English. She sings and plays the ukulele and piano in - Omega Two with Pete Mathison guitarist with Ray Davies in 90’s and Wee Small Hours Duo - with pianist Gareth Hall .She is in demand as a jazz singer for The Keith Little Trio and The Rhythm Aces. The cherry on the musical cake was recently performing on Van Morrison’s latest album - Roll with the Punches released September 2017…….
The BIG FREE Omega Two
Jane Williams, originally from Cardigan in West Wales but now residing in Cardiff, has been singing since she was 15 and performing on stage, radio and with bands in Welsh and English. She sings and plays the ukulele and piano in - Omega Two with Pete Mathison guitarist with Ray Davies in 90’s and Wee Small Hours Duo - with pianist Gareth Hall .She is in demand as a jazz singer for The Keith Little Trio and The Rhythm Aces. The cherry on the musical cake was recently performing on Van Morrison’s latest album - Roll with the Punches released September 2017…….
The BIG FREE Newport Folk Club Members
A welcome back this year to the members of the Newport Folk Club including the duo Tanglewood. Over the last four years they have made over 250 live performances and have developed a very wide and eclectic repertoire consisting of traditional folk music, more contemporary acoustic songs as well as original songs.
The BIG FREE Morfa
Meg Eliza Cox, Osian Gruffydd a Rhys Morris yw tri o gerddorion ifanc mwyaf cyffrous a thalentog yng Nghymru heddiw. Maent yn chwarae alawon a chaneuon traddodiadol o Gymru a thu hwnt a hefyd yn perfformio stepio Cymreig. Meg Eliza Cox, Osian Gruffydd and Rhys Morris are three of Wales' most exciting and talented young musicians. They play traditional tunes and songs from Wales and beyond and also showcase Welsh step dancing.
The BIG FREE LivvyAnarchy
The BIG FREE Kings of Caerleon
The BIG FREE Isobel Lewis-Jarvis
The BIG FREE Healey, Rowlands & Haywood
The BIG FREE Free Beer
Free Beer is delighted to return again this year to the Caerleon Festival. The band has been together for 14 years and although some members have changed, Free Beer is still bringing parties and events to life - from South Wales to as far afield as Scotland! There will be the hits from the Beatles to The Killers, you’ll know the songs, but if you haven’t seen the band live, you won’t have heard them played this way!
The BIG FREE FolkLaw
The band, FolkLaw from the Cotswolds boasting of at least one Welsh member performed for the Caerleon Festival in 2016. They enjoyed themselves so much they asked if they could come back even though already with a full list of gigs listed on their website for 2018 that now includes Caerleon along side Germany.
The BIG FREE Drumazepam
Drumazepam is a small African drumming group, formed in 2014 to initially help people with mental issues after one of the founding members realised that the drumming helped her to focus thoughts and relieve anxiety. The original drummers found being part of the group and playing the drums improved their mental health, gaining confidence, self-esteem and learning new skills. It has now been agreed to open up the group to everyone.
The BIG FREE Big Sky
Once again Caerleon Festival welcomes back ‘Big Sky’ a folk rock band, a local four-piece band based in the area around Llandegveth, Croesyceiliog & Pontypool. They play rock, folk, Americana, a little country and some blues at local pubs, clubs and private functions and are looking forward to performing at the Caerleon Festival.
The BIG FREE Baffl
Baffl is a bilingual quintet based in the 'port on a mission to make you shake your tail feathers, tap your toes, and scratch your heads. Dragged kicking and screaming from the embers of the extra-terrestrial Ampersand band, Baffl's members have now fully adopted human forms to entertain, educate and spread intergalactic love to all of humankind. They come in peace!
The BIG FREE Art Exhibition “Aspects of Dance”
The BIG FREE Arianne Seignot
Arianne Seignot has been inspired by a wide range of artists such as Stereophonics, Sam Cooke, Paloma Faith, Norah Jones and many more. She started singing and playing guitar almost a decade ago and her with her husky tones embellished with a country twang and a sprinkling of jazz, has had to learn how to sculpt her songs and covers to best suit her style. Arianne has sung at many festivals over the years and performed at venues such as Cardiff city stadium and Cardiff Castle. A bubbly and transparent personality shines through in her music and her performance.
The BIG FREE Aled Hughes
Originally from North Wales, singer/songwriter Aled Hughes is now located in the idyllic southern coastal town of Llantwit Major. Probably best categorised as being in the pop-folk-soft rock genre, he writes songs in both English and Welsh. Some take quite a light-hearted perspective, while others deal with heavier themes. As well as composing his own material, he does renditions of Welsh standards and covers from the 50's onwards.
The BIG FREE – Tiny Toes Ballet
Tiny Toes Ballet is the only pre-school ballet programme in the UK that is fully integrated with the EYFS curriculum, having been founded and developed by not only a professionally trained classical ballet dancer and qualified ballet teacher but also a highly experienced primary school teacher. Our Award-Winning Programme offers classes for babies and children from 6 months- 7 years old.
The BIG FREE – Sonic Kicks
The BIG FREE – Christian Malcolm Sports Academy
The Red Hot Pokers
The Red Hot Pokers are four talented musicians who have played along with artists such as Alex Harvey, Van Morrison, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis & Tom Jones. This amazing band is best known for being part of Van Morrison’s backing band with Ned Edwards having worked with many of the industry’s heavyweights and has contributed to Van Morrison’s recent studio album. They have also shared stages with big names such as B.B. King and Eric Clapton to mention just two.
Apple Tree Theory
Morriston Orpheus Choir Côr Orpheus Treforys
An internationally acclaimed Welsh male choir that enjoys a worldwide reputation as a leading exponent of male choral singing. Under it’s Musical Director, Joy Amman-Davies, the choir boasts a vast repertoire and performs in English, Welsh and other languages. In 2016 the choir received the great accolade of being selected to perform at the Centenary of the Somme service at the Thiepval Memorial. This year they are being joined by soprano soloist, Chloe Angharad Morgan.
The Collective
So long, Frank Lloyd Wright!
Rokgrass
Festival Songs of Praise
Murray Lachlan Young
Murray Lachlan Young is widely regarded as one of the best-known poetry voices in Britain, acclaimed poet, playwright, broadcaster and writer, he is celebrated for his hybrid mix of stand-up comedy and poetry with delightful commentaries on the bizarreness of contemporary life. Live and onstage expect flamboyant punchy wit and brooding subtext with empathetic humour.
Lit on the Lawn
Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale
The Winter's Tale is a play by William Shakespeare and has been grouped among the comedies, and often relabelled as being one of Shakespeare’s late romances. Some critics consider it to be one of Shakespeare's “problem plays” because the first three acts are filled with intense drama, while the last two acts are comedic with a happy ending.
Monmouthshire & Newport Community Choir
Monmouthshire and Newport Community choirs were set up by Gwent Music to provide choirs for adults to access within the community. The Monmouthshire Community Choir is a mixed choir with 35 members; Newport Community Choir is a choir who perform a range of repertoire including pop, classical and traditional songs. .
Daoiri Farrell
Mari Lwyd is coming to Caerleon
Christmas in Caerleon
Pagoda Project
Paul Hutchinson, also known for Belshazzars Feast, and Karen Wimhurst, previously a member of the Cauld Blast Orchestra, have a wealth of musical experience in a diverse range of genres from classical to folk. Both are talented composers, educators and performers and are highly regarded musicians in their own right.
The BIG FREE Violent Hearts
Violent Hearts is a four piece based in Cardiff. There is Tariq on vocals, guitar and harmonica, Rachel on keys and vocals, Andrew on vocals and lead guitar and Norbert on cajon. Haunting melodies, perfect harmonies and with raw emotion they play a combination of Americana, blues, and folk rock taking influences from Nick Cave and the Bad seeds, Tim Hardin, The Gun Club, Gram Parsons and Neil Young to name a few.
The BIG FREE Untapped Sound
The BIG FREE Two Trick Pony
Two Trick Pony is a band consisting of Caerleon-based twin brothers, Sam and Joe who have been writing songs for over 30 years. They have been performing on the local open mic music scene for the past 2 years and recently recorded their debut album, Reflections. Two Trick Pony have performed on Newport City Radio with their first single "You and me against the World" which has been well received on such music sites as Spotify and ITunes.
The BIG FREE TaffyWasAThief
The BIG FREE Synergy A-Cappella
Synergy is a close-harmony male voice choir – the only such choir in South Wales. They differ from a traditional male voice choir in their approach, their choice of songs and sound. Sing “a-cappella” (unaccompanied), producing truly beautiful music. Synergy’s ability to charm & delight an audience with their singing is due to a number of factors…………
The BIG FREE Synergy A-Cappella
If you missed Synergy on the Festival Field earlier this is your second chance to hear this close-harmony male voice choir – the only such choir in South Wales. They differ from a traditional male voice choir in their approach, their choice of songs and sound. Sing “a-cappella” (unaccompanied), producing truly beautiful music. Synergy’s ability to charm & delight an audience with their singing is due to a number of factors…………
The BIG FREE Samba Drumming with Isca Bataria and Velha Bataria
The BIG FREE Russell Jones
The BIG FREE Ruby & the Valentines
The BIG FREE Richard Robling
Richard’s songs come from the great balladeers of the forties and fifties - Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra, the skiffling fifties -Tommy Steele and Guy Mitchell, the swinging sixties - the Beatles and The Kinks etc; also there will be a nod to the folk scene of the likes of Bob Dylan, blues and modern pop songs - even a hymn-like Welsh tune or two and maybe a few original compositions. Something for everyone!!! Vocals are accompanied by acoustic guitar.
The BIG FREE Pyramid
Pyramid - a 3-piece Caerleon based band who cover songs from the 60's to the present day including The Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, Queen and Fleetwood Mac to name but a few. Pyramid is returning to the Caerleon Festival again this year and if the last time they performed is anything to go by, then the atmosphere will be electric!
The BIG FREE Peel Your Own Spuds
Peel Your Own Spuds are the new faces on the Folk/Irish scene in the UK. Original songs are delivered by a very talented set of musicians, Rosie, Dave, Sean, Mick, Keith and Tom. The instruments played in the band include accordion, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, banjo, tin whistle, bass, drums and bodhran. Their original material spans many subjects, including emigration, social problems and the "demon drink"!
The BIG FREE Nick Thomas-Lynch
The BIG FREE Newport Folk Club Members
Bryn Millichip and friends, Roy Zeal, Phil Millichip, Malcolm & Cynthia Charnley aka Tanglewood. Tanglewood is an acoustic-combo based in Pentyrch, near Cardiff, Over the last three years they have made over 250 live performances and have developed a very wide and eclectic repertoire consisting of traditional folk music, more contemporary acoustic songs as well as original songs. Malc and Cyn will be joined by their son Jamie on guitar at this year's Caerleon Festival
The BIG FREE Lloyd Warren
Lloyd Warren an acoustic guitarist/singer living in Caerleon and studying at the University of Reading. He's already a veteran of the live music scene having started gigging at the age of 12. Lloyd is familiar face in South Wales music venues and festivals, performing on radio and in the theatre as well as writing, recording and promoting live music events.
The BIG FREE Livvyanarchy
Livvyanarchy is a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and singer with a varied musical orientation. Many of her songs have political and social themes, are highly contemporary and delivered with energy and humour. Last time she performed at Caerleon Festival she played a heavy metal banjo composition followed by a Simon and Garfunkle cover.
The BIG FREE Just Dance – Latino Salsa & Bachata
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
If you missed this event the day before, on the Saturday, here is another chance to see them - Jawahir Middle Eastern Dancers perform all styles of Middle Eastern Dance – fusing North African, Egyptian, Turkish and even European rhythms using traditional and modern movement, in bright, colourful costumes which vary from full tribal to light and airy.
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
Missed them earlier? Here is your great chance to finally catch them. Jawahir Middle Eastern dancers perform all styles of Middle Eastern Dance – fusing North African, Egyptian, Turkish and even European rhythms using traditional and modern movement, in bright, colourful costumes which vary from full tribal to light and airy.
The BIG FREE Jack Perrett
With the Gallagher brothers still at loggerheads on their ‘will they, won’t they’ reunion shows, it’s thrilling when a new act channels the spirit of Britpop’s golden era yet isn’t afraid to include references to the more contemporary singer songwriters such as Jake Bugg/Jack Garrett/Kate Tempest et al within his music. Jack Perrett is one such new voice, youthful, bold, confident and unashamedly populist in his outlook and his songwriting.
The BIG FREE iShine Performing Arts
iShine Performing Arts - songs from musical theatre & contemporary pop. If you are aged 3 or over, iShine Performing Arts might be just what you are looking for. We put together at least one main show a year but also love to get involved with various community events. Our main aim is to provide a fun and safe environment for our young cast members to work on their confidence by getting involved in not only performing but also by giving them the opportunity to teach, write and design.
The BIG FREE Ian Luther
The BIG FREE Drumazepam
Drumazepam is a small African drumming group, formed in 2014 to initially help people with mental issues after one of the founding members realised that the drumming helped her to focus thoughts and relieve anxiety. The original drummers found being part of the group and playing the drums improved their mental health, gaining confidence, self-esteem and learning new skills. It has now been agreed to open up the group to everyone.
The BIG FREE Crwth
The BIG FREE Crwth
Crwth is a contemporary Celtic band from South Wales, which started in 2013 when founding members Rosie and Rhodri decided to collaborate on creating a guitar-violin duo. Within a year’s time, the band would see the introduction of mandolin player Joel and cajon player Joseph. Over the past three years since, they have been performing together as a four-piece band all over South Wales on stages at various festivals and club venues right the way across from Llanymddyffri and Pembrey to Newport and Cardiff.
The BIG FREE Blind River Scare
Tim Manning aka Blind River Scare is a South Wales based singer/songwriter playing original Americana, Alt-Country, Folk, Roots & in genre covers . He writes heartfelt tales of love, loss and life coupled with proper song-craft that sounds both timeless and contemporary. Promoting releases such as 'Killing Time' 'The Straight and True' 'The Point Of No Return' and his latest CD 'Pastures New' in the good old fashioned way has seen Tim travel the length and breadth of the country both headlining and supporting touring acts, in doing so creating a distinct niche for himself on the UK music scene.
The BIG FREE Amairgin The Gael
The BIG FREE Affinity
Affinity is about modern songs done in an acoustic style – if that’s your scene then you’re in for a treat. Colin, Mike and Richard are three guys who have played in bands for most of their lives and who have now come together to perform pop, folk, modern country and some oldies with the emphasis on acoustic guitar and great harmonies. Expect to hear John Legend, John Denver and even Buddy Holly.
The BIG FREE – Ragsy
Come and hear RAGSY a Welsh based singer-songwriter and independent artist who appeared on BBC's The Voice in 2013 and was mentored by Sir Tom Jones. Appeared at Glastonbury 2014 and has just recorded his début album ‘Ouch!!!’ released on the 1st March 2015. Appeared earlier this year at the Bell Inn.
The BIG FREE Tres Hombres
The BIG FREE The Moreton Roadshow
The BIG FREE The Moreton Roadshow
The BIG FREE The Gatecrashers
The Gate Crashers is a four piece Acoustic covers band. They play light rock, blues and country music. The band has a unique and engaging sound created by two guitars and a mandolin – augmented with occasional harmonica, tambourine and of course cowbell! With two outstanding vocalists in the band, the Gate Crashers always deliver a memorable set.
The BIG FREE The City of Newport Male Choir
City of Newport Male Choir was established in 1943 as a means of relieving the tensions of the latter war years, starting with a membership of 25. They are a registered charity that uses the art of music to help other charitable organisations, while giving Choir members a means of self-expression with no financial benefit to themselves. They are proud to be a part and to continue the traditions of Welsh Male Voice Choirs and the musical sound that is renowned the whole world over.
The BIG FREE Stoney Broke
A Stoney Broke gig promises and delivers high energy mixed with a passionate and individual interpretation of established and rediscovers tunes from over the last 50 years. Come along and be part of what so many people have enjoyed for the last quarter of a century, that is, live music as it’s meant to be played and enjoyed by all!
The BIG FREE Shimai
Shimai are in the process of recording their first EP at Faster studios and are very excited to have James Dean Bradfield of The Manic Street Preachers playing bass on three of their tracks. The mesmerising sound of their unique sibling harmonies evokes a sense of emotion and nostalgia. Shimai try not to be limited to a specific genre when writing, but you can expect an indie folk influence in a lot of their material. Between them they have 12 years experience of live performance and enjoy gigging festivals and venues in Wales and the West country.
The BIG FREE Scott Alexander – Vocalist
Scott Alexander sings classical, musical theatre, pop & rock. He was part of the 'Only Boys Aloud' choir who finished 3rd in the finale of Britain's Got Talent. Since then he has notched up some incredible credits including performing on shows such as Blue Peter, Songs of Praise, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, BBC Breakfast and The X Factor Final 2012
The BIG FREE Saint City Jazz Band
Pembrokeshire’s very own Trad’ Jazz outfit. All the way from St. Davids, Pembrokeshire. A blast from the past, playing music that refuses to lay down. New Orleans style Trad' Jazz, good time stomps, slow blues; and a bit of silliness thrown in! The Band has a “vintage” jazz sound that is enthusiastic and fun, covering great tunes and songs from the early days of Dixieland Jazz.
The BIG FREE Rob Connolly
The BIG FREE Richard Dinning, Acoustic & i
The BIG FREE Plucking Fourstrings
When the Plucking Fourstrings (careful how you say it) are not drinking or falling over they tear through a repertoire of old classics and current chart material often to the wildly gyrating and hysterically screaming audiences from various care and retirement homes. They are a fixture at various charity events and support many a good cause. The rumour is not true that most of the money they raise is as a result of being paid off by promoters to stop after performing only one or two chaotic numbers..........
The BIG FREE Oxbowlake
Oxbowlake is an acoustic folk band from South Wales that have been playing together for about six years. Their first album is out and they managing to gig several times a week. Oxbowlake like to think they give a little comedy, some acoustic poetry and a couple of foot stompers. Its all original and its all for the joy of it!!
The BIG FREE Newport Orchestra Ensemble
The BIG FREE Morfa
The BIG FREE Lounging About
Lounging About is a five-piece band fronted by singer Angharad, covering a range of popular songs from different genres past and present included in the repertoire are some original tunes also. So be reacquainted with Van Morrison, Etta James, The Kinks, Paoulo Nutini, Jerry Rafferty, Amy Winehouse, Eliza Dolittle, Fairground Attraction - to mention a few.
The BIG FREE Kings of Caerleon
The Kings of Caerleon are a five-piece covers band, playing a wide variety of music, mostly rock, spanning the past four decades. From Jimi Hendrix to Oasis, the group are sure to offer something that gets you rocking. The band is made up of John Thythacott on drums; Jeff Cook on bass guitar & vocals; Andrew Cook on guitar & vocals; Louis Grogan and David Parish, both on guitar.
The BIG FREE Keith Christmas
A British folk/blues/guitarist/singer/songwriter who has a unique style of highly complex fingerpicking acoustic guitar work, framing songs with a mix of retrospective & state of the moment themes sung in a gritty soul-drenched voice. Between 1969 and 1974 Keith Christmas recorded 5 vinyl albums, played 3 tracks on David Bowie’s first album and was booked for the first ever Glastonbury Festival.
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
The BIG FREE Jawahir Dancers
If you missed them at the Bell Inn see them here - Jawahir Middle Eastern Dancers Jawahir perform all styles of Middle Eastern Dance – fusing North African, Egyptian, Turkish and even European rhythms using traditional and modern movement, in bright, colourful costumes which vary from full tribal to light and airy.
The BIG FREE Healey, Rowlands & Haywood
The BIG FREE Free Beer
Free Beer, the "Top Party Band", is a South Wales-based rock & pop covers band that is sure to get you up and dancing! Have played all over the country for more than 10 years playing hits from the 60's to the modern classics such as The Stereophonics and The Killers. You are guaranteed to dance & sing along!
The BIG FREE Côr Afon Lwyd Welsh Folk Choir
The BIG FREE City of Newport Male Choir
City of Newport Male Choir was established in 1943 as a means of relieving the tensions of the latter war years, starting with a membership of 25. They are a registered charity that uses the art of music to help other charitable organisations, while giving Choir members a means of self expression with no financial benefit to themselves. They are proud to be a part and to continue the traditions of Welsh Male Voice Choirs and the musical sound that is renowned the whole world over.
The BIG FREE Canada Road
The BIG FREE 3MPH
Complete 2017 BIG FREE Programme at a Glance
The Collective Big Band
The 80th Anniversary of the Basque Refugee Children’s arrival in Caerleon
A FREE day to commemorate the arrival in Caerleon of the Basque refugee children fleeing the Spanish Civil War in 1937. An exhibition of photographs and press cuttings together with A three-way conversation about the reasons for the children coming to Wales and to Caerleon; the children’s experience of life in Caerleon and how the children were supported by the wider community
NA-MARA concert – to commemorate the Basque Children of Caerleon 1937
Concert Performance by NA-MARA. In recent years this folk duo have built an enviable reputation for fine story telling and musicianship around the folk clubs and festivals of Britain. Their music includes self-penned songs in traditional style on contemporary and historical topics; traditional songs from the British Isles; their own translations of songs from the Breton, French and Quebecois traditions; and tunes from Brittany, France and the Spanish Celtic regions of Asturias and Galicia.
Spellbound
Spellbound offer the listener a wide variety of music from different genres, from sweet and tender ballads to hard hitting rock’n’roll via some disco/funk numbers, current chart hits, and some Latin-style thrown in for good measure! Fronted by female vocals backed up by talented, time served musicians, including 2 guitarists, bass, keyboards and drums, this engaging band is certainly one to add to your “must see” list.
Lit on the Lawn
Now embarking on its sixth year Literature Caerleon once again brings together the cream of contemporary Welsh writing suitably augmented by a unique debunker of the status quo from across the bridge. Recently returned from the campaign trail, bibliophile and ITV Wales’ Political Editor, Adrian Masters will be on hand to help guide proceedings.
Attila the Stockbroker with Patrick Jones
The Monmouthshire and Newport Community Choir
The Merry Wives of Windsor
As the Festival programme takes shape, good news! William Shakespeare returns to the Amphitheatre on this time "as luck would have it" with a comedy presented by The Festival Players Theatre Company. They are a professional theatre company who deliver the best in open-air Shakespeare and committed to presenting the very best in touring...
MARI LWYD [Hen Galan]
The Mari Lwyd [Hen Galan] will be moving between the White Hart and the Bell. The Mari Lwyd (pronounced /mæri'lɔɪd/) is a wassailing folk custom found in South Wales. The tradition entails the use of an eponymous hobby horse which is made from a horse's skull mounted on a pole and carried by an individual hidden under a sackcloth. It represents a regional variation of a "hooded animal" tradition that appears in various forms throughout Britain.
CHRISTMAS MARKET
The excitement mounts, pulses race, against all the odds the Christmas tree is in place, "It's beginning to look like Christmas, everywhere you go........"Caerleon Festival’s Christmas Market, this year, will have not only delicious food and gastronomic treats from near and afar, but also local quality crafts - the solution to some Xmas shopping problems. There will be Carols on the Common, Merrymaking in the Museum, and festivities everywhere in a Christmas enthused Caerleon and there will be Lorraine & Henry as usual to give a warm welcome. So come on in...........
BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST Caerleon Festival’s Christmas Event
BELSHAZZAR'S FEAST start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, throw in a bit of pop and music hall, then top it off with wry humour for a unique live experience. Belshazzar’s Feast received a coveted nomination for the Best Duo Award at the 2010 BBC Folk Awards. The two Pauls make a welcome return to perform Festive music and song spiced with humour to celebrate the run up to Christmas
The TREORCHY MALE CHOIR with soloist Iona Jones
For 130 years the Treorchy Male Choir has been recognised as one of the greatest choral ensembles of all time. Early competition victories were followed by regular radio and television broadcasts, feature films and an unequalled number of commercial recordings. The Choir has given several Royal Command Performances, appeared alongside very many international entertainers and undertaken an enviable number of tours abroad.
RICHARD DIGANCE
Richard is a BAFTA Nominated entertainer and a Gold Award recipient from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. He is also listed in the Virgin Anthology of Music as an influential writer of comedic songs. Not many guitarists have played a duet with Queen's Brian May, worked with Steve Martin, played an acoustic set with Status Quo or performed at The London Palladium with the late Robin Williams, Richard has 3 million YouTube hits, 27 albums and a Golden Anniversary Tour, 50 years of songs and stories, coming in 2017
ELINOR BENNETT harpist
Starting in the Baroque period with the Concerto for harp by Handel, ELINOR BENNETT will play some of the most popular music of the harp repertoire from the classical and romantic periods, as well as more recent works from the 20th century. She will introduce the music in her warm, inimitable style sharing her passion for the harp and its music.
FAKE THACKRAY
FAKE THACKRAY, aka JOHN WATTERSON, is an adopted Yorkshireman with a huge appreciation and love of Jake Thackray's music. His performance is a celebration of the man that was Jake Thackray – his life, his work and his genius – a genius which the new age of music lovers are in danger of missing out on. John is a talented guitarist and vocalist and has that engaging quality that makes you want to listen to his performance. When you wrap these ingredients up in the songs of Jake Thackray the result is a highly entertaining, heartfelt tribute to one of the finest songwriters of the 20th century.
EAST POINTERS
The EAST POINTERS, a Canadian band heading for the WOMAD FESTIVAL are stopping off at the BELL INN on Wednesday 27th July to give us an opportunity to hear some astounding sounds. EAST POINTERS from St Edward Island are breathing some new life into traditional music – they are hoping to introduce a whole new generation of listeners to a musical style that dates back centuries yet is still relevant today – making trad. music again hip – music to dance and raise a glass to!
Pub Rock – Rokgrass
BIG Free – Tres Hombres Classic Rock, Soul & Blues Band
BIG FREE – The Plucking Fourstrings Ukulele Group
BIG FREE – Society Rock
BIG FREE – Richard Robling
BIG FREE – Peel Your Own Spuds
BIG FREE – Omega Two
BIG FREE – Newport Salseros Salsa Group
BIG FREE – Morfa
BIG FREE – Lloyd Warren
BIG FREE – Keith Christmas
BIG FREE – Jawahir Middle Eastern Dance Group
BIG FREE – Jawahir Middle Eastern Dance Group
BIG FREE – Georgia Monaghan
BIG FREE – FolkLaw
BIG FREE – Fiddlesticks Folk Band
BIG FREE – Drumazepam
BIG FREE – Delta Breaks, Blues, Rock & Soul Band
BIG FREE – Chwarae Teg, Celtic Music
BIG FREE – Brandywine Cloggers with the Grey River Boys
Appalachian Clogging is a traditional percussive step dance which developed in the Appalachian Mountains of the USA through many different influences. It is a lively, improvisatory dance that encompasses elements of English, Irish, African-American, and Native American foot-work and rhythms and is accompanied by Bluegrass or Old-Time banjo and fiddle tunes.
BIG FREE – Blind River Scare
BIG FREE – Bewelian 21st Century Folk Rock Mix Up
BIG FREE – Amairgin The Gael, Celtic Music
BIG FREE – Acoustic & i (Richard Dinning) indie, folk singer & songwriter
BIG FREE – ‘Shimai’ Duo
Pub Rock – Mike and the Mechanic
Pub Rock – Krystal Mills
BIG FREE – Thomas Rhys Music
BIG FREE – TaffyWasAThief
BIG FREE – Susan Warren
BIG FREE – Silurian, Country Rock & Blues Duo
BIG FREE – Shoostring – Appalachian Dancing
BIG FREE – Scuffed up Boots
BIG FREE – Scott Alexander Howells
BIG FREE – Sambisca & the Old Bangers
BIG FREE – Rokgrass
BIG FREE – Rogora Khart
Rogora Khart brings Black Sea Punk to Newportograd they are a fantastic, crazy, deeply amusing Eastern European-influenced punky, folky rock'n'roll with a beautiful bonkers dancer who makes Bez look like Nick Clegg - and delivered with an off the scale energy that makes the Sex Pistols look like Kraftwerk. Imagine the Pogues fronted by Dracula. Rogora Khart are UKIP's worst nightmare. For no other reason than that, see this wonderful band NOW!
BIG FREE – Rob Barratt Comic Poet & Singer
BIG FREE – Ragsy
BIG FREE – Oxbowlake
BIG FREE – Newport & Monmouthshire Community Choirs
BIG FREE – Madzimai Pamwe
BIG FREE – Loungin’ About
BIG FREE – Kings of Caerleon
BIG FREE – Keith Christmas
Keith Christmas, British Folk Blues, guitarist, singer/songwriter is a widely experienced musician who has played and been associated with magical names such as David Bowie, working with him on his first album. Was booked to appear at the first ever Glastonbury Festival in 1978 and been a support act to The Who, King Crimson, Ten Years After, Argent, Captain Beefheart, Frank Zappa, The Kinks and Roxy Music.
BIG FREE – Jawahir Middle Eastern Dancers
BIG FREE – Jawahir Middle Eastern Dance Group
BIG FREE – Jack Perrett & Indie Rock & Roll
Jack Perrett pens indestructible youth tunes that will leave you feeling ten foot tall with your chest out and your chin up. Combining the best of Oasis’s unapologetic confidence with the timeless style of acts like The Jam and The Stone Roses. The singer songwriter from Newport wears his influences on his sleeve. Jack does something that no other artist in Britain has done in a long time. He makes your blood pump just a little bit faster. Not short on ambition Jack’s flagship song says everything you need to know. He’s got it all but he wants more.
BIG FREE – Healey, Rowlands & Haywood
BIG FREE – Gwent Accordion Club
BIG FREE – Big Sky Rock Folk Band
BIG FREE – 3MPH
Shakespeare’s Hamlet – The Festival Players
In celebration of the 400th Anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, The Festival Players Theatre Company is proud to present the Bard’s most famous play, Hamlet. All in the setting of Caerleon’s Roman Amphitheatre. A performance given by the Côr y Dreigiau Newport Gwent Dragon’s Choir under the musical directorship of Helen Robbins with Colin Beynon as accompanist will precede the play at 6.30pm.
Pub Rock – How to Build a Rocket
Pub Rock – Free Beer
Pub Rock – Tom Williams Jazz & Blues Band
The Morriston Orpheus Choir
Pop Rock – TaffyWasAThief
Pub Rock – Free Acoustic Lounge
Acoustic Lounge. Host: Lloyd Warren with Julia Abbott, guitarist and singer; Rhys Hone guitarist and singer/songwriter; Izzi Lewis-Jarvis singer and ukelele/guitar player and Jack Perrett guitarist and singer/songwriter who play rock music that flows through classic covers with a chilled and funky twist.
Children’s Art & Poetry Awards
The All Wales Comic Verse Finals
Pub Rock – Spellbound
Festival Songs Of Praise
Pop Rock – The Gate Crashers
A four piece acoustic band based in Llanfrechfa who can be found gigging throughout the Cardiff & Newport area with a repertoire of light rock, blues & country music. The band comprises of Ian Kendrick (guitar & vocals); Mark Payne (lead vocals, harmonica & tambourine); Nicky Dominy (guitar & backing vocals); James Dawson (mandolin, guitar and definitely no vocals!).
Lit On The Lawn
Pub Rock – Albino Frogs
Simply known as “The Frogs” to their ever growing number of followers supporting their smiling upbeat music, this five piece band from the South Wales Valleys appeals to all ages, as they deal out plenty of funky Latin rocky grooves, which get your foot tapping and the body swaying. It doesn’t end there, there's also a smattering of jazz and country thrown into the mix for good measure. Solid yet funky bass, drums, and percussion serving to underpin the slap and tickle guitar style.
Poetry in the Pews – Owen Sheers
Poetry In The Pews - Owen Sheers supported by The Allegra Ladies Choir, Mike Jenkins. Owen Sheers is an international acclaimed and award winning Welsh poet, author and playwright. His first novel, Resistance, was translated into ten languages and adapted into a film. The Dust Diaries, his Zimbabwean non-fiction narrative, won the Welsh Book of the Year. He has received many other awards including the Hay Festival Poetry Medal and the Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award..
The Summer Farmers’ Market
Robin and Bina Williamson’s folk music
Robin is legendary worldwide as musician, storyteller and writer. He has fore fronted many genres over his 50 year career .He plays harp and guitar. Bina is an inspired and gifted singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist in her own right. She has a hauntingly sweet melodious voice .She plays bowed psaltery, plucked psaltery, auto harp and long neck dulcimer. Their soulful performances as a duo feature their East West vocal harmonies and their own unique interweave of songs stories and music.
