Cultural vibrations

Aug 15 2008 by Ronnie Parry, Chester Chronicle

The good vibrations of cross-border culture promise to bring a broad smile to Flintshire this month.

Tegeingl – The Festival of Hidden Folk is a new traditional performance arts event coming to Mold.

The festival will play host to many famous artists on the Welsh and international folk music, dance and poetry scenes.

Tegeingl takes its name from the Romano-British kingdom established in North East Wales, following the demise of the Roman empire.

The rich mix of identities and cultures in Flintshire’s history persuaded organisers to resurrect the name for this international festival of traditions.

Tegeingl chairman, Bryn Davies, said: “There’s a tremendous resurgence of interest in traditional music, dance and poetry in and around North Wales. This is especially evident amongst the younger generations.

“With the marked decline in record sales, live performances are now seen as the way forward by artists of all kinds.

“Culture is a shared knowledge and as such the experience of music, dance and poetry should be a social occasion for all. This is what Tegeingl will be.”

There will be a large range of stalls selling local produce and workshops to give visitors a taste of local dance and language.

Prizes are also on offer to the best young musician and best traditional group entering their respective competitions.

Internationally-acclaimed poet Les Barker will also be appearing at the festival.

Tegeingl takes place on Mold Rugby Club’s Chester Road field tomorrow and Saturday.

The total cost of staging Tegeingl is expected to top £40,000.

Fundraising events have taken place and organisers are also looking for donations and people to volunteer as stewards.

For further details and ticket bookings log on to www.tegeingl.com, call Rhian on 01352 755614 or e-mail rhian@menteriaithsiryfflint.co.uk

Tegeingl line-up will include: Fernhill (Wales); Kujawy (Poland); Steve Tilston (England); Ceolta Sí (Ireland); Les Barker (Wales); Martha Tilston (England); Crasdant (Wales); Siân James (Wales); Bella Hardy (England); Eileen McGann and David K (Canada); Jez Lowe (England), and Dawnswyr Nantgarw (Wales).

Local artists will also be performing.

Hywel Griffiths and fellow poets will host a stomp (poetry slam) and traditional storyteller, Fiona Collins, will offer another perspective of Tegeingl.

Dr David Jones and Mary Roberts will deliver lectures in English and Welsh about the Edison Phonograph on display.