Music, mystery & Halloween mischief
Posted: 26th October 2026It’s been a wonderfully varied few days at the Clarence Hall, with three very different events bringing music, entertainment and a generous helping of Halloween mischief to Crickhowell. From a mysterious murder and some rather unexpected costumes to a fundraising evening for Tŷ Hafan and a celebration of Welsh heritage, there’s been plenty to enjoy!
Ebbw Valley Brass got things off to a spirited start on Thursday with a Halloween concert full of surprises. Joined by the delightful Bryn Bach Primary School Choir, the band treated the audience to an evening of music, mystery and theatrical fun. There was a murder to solve, as everyone tried to uncover what had happened to the unfortunate Edgar Vale, while the mysterious figure behind the mask in “Teddy Bears’ Massacre” remained determined to protect their identity. By the second half, the musicians had embraced the Halloween spirit completely, with a devil, skeleton, Count Dracula, escaped convict, pumpkin and even a banana making an appearance!
Saturday brought a change of pace as The Bypassers took to the stage for a special fundraising concert in aid of Tŷ Hafan. With support from No Clouds Allowed, featuring Kirsty Havard, the evening offered an opportunity to enjoy live music while supporting a charity that provides vital care for children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Wales. Organised by Jo Smyth, with Treebeards providing the bar, the event raised funds for this important cause, with all proceeds going to Tŷ Hafan.
The weekend drew to a close on a very different musical note as Crickhowell Choral Society presented a concert exploring Welsh heritage, legendary heroes and the beauty of the natural world. Part of the Celtic Roots Festival, the programme ranged from Purcell and Elgar’s musical interpretations of Caractacus and Arthur to Mendelssohn’s choral songs and traditional Welsh music performed by the Society’s choral scholars. Guest harpist Jessica Davies added another dimension to the occasion, performing music associated with Catrin Finch and paying tribute to Ann Griffiths on the anniversary of her death.
Three contrasting events, each bringing something special to the Hall and demonstrating the wonderful variety of performances that Crickhowell continues to enjoy. Our thanks go to everyone who helped make them happen, from the performers and organisers to the audiences who came along to share in the music, laughter and generosity of the past few days.
