A tremendous October at Clarence Hall!
Posted: 1st November 2024This October, the Clarence Hall hosted a series of remarkable events, bringing the community together in a celebration of arts, music and charitable causes.
The month began with an outstanding performance of The Long Way Home by Rareseed Productions. Directed by Liz Pearce, who also portrayed the character of Old Mother, the play followed an emotional journey through Greece, exploring themes of connection, resilience and love. With a cabaret-style setup and vibrant musical arrangement by Carreg Lafar’s Antwn Owen Hicks and Linda Owen Jones, the production captivated audiences and evoked the warmth of a Greek taverna, blending drama and live music in an immersive and memorable experience.
Next, The Elvis Trilogy rocked the hall with a lively fundraiser organised by Living with Dementia. Starring Darren Graceland Jones, a multiple-time winner of the Porthcawl Elvis Festival Weekend, the event successfully raised funds for local dementia projects like the ever-popular Caffi Croeso. The event not only entertained but also reinforced the importance of community support in improving the lives of those living with dementia.
Following this, Brecknock Sinfonia hosted a delightful Musical Tea featuring their talented Cello Octet. The event was a feast for both the ears and the tastebuds! The highlight of the performance was the octet’s rendition of Villa-Lobos’ Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5, featuring the Welsh soprano, Áine Smith. This was an unforgettable moment in an afternoon of excellent music, all under the baton of Michael Bell, the conductor of Brecknock Sinfonia.
The month concluded with Cups on a String, a thought-provoking play presented by the Riding Lights Theatre Company and organised by St Edmund’s Church. The performance portrayed the story of Joe, an eleven-year-old facing hardships, and Heather, his dedicated volunteer mentor. With a combination of live theatre, music, and digital projections, the play underscored the significant impact of mentorship, reflecting the mission of the charity Transforming Lives for Good (TLG).
Through these events, the Clarence Hall once again proved its importance as a vibrant community hub, bringing people together to experience creativity and connection!