Myths, music and monuments: experiential arts event arrives in Anglesey
Heuldro (Solstice) is coming to Bryn Celli Ddu, near Llanfair PG, on 18 June 2022: a bilingual, outdoor art event that seeks to interrogate landscape, ritual, and the celebration of archaeology through creative interpretation.
Between 11-4pm on the 18 of June, an open day celebrating the Neolithic period will take place at the prehistoric site. One of the most famous archaeological sites in Britain, the 5,000-year-old tomb was once constructed to protect and pay respect to the remains of ancestors.
Created as a collaborative arts experience between Cadw, Tin Shed Theatre Company, Arts Council Wales, Tactile Bosch, Galeri Caernarfon, Oriel Môn, and Manchester Metropolitan University, the event will welcome visitors from across north Wales and beyond to celebrate human history and artistic endeavour, all rooted in Welsh landscape.
Throughout the morning of the Heuldro event, attendees will be invited to live flint knapping demonstrations with the chance to meet Neolithic characters, take a tour of the site, and have a go at making pots like those found at the ancient tomb.
Plus, attendees will have the unique opportunity to talk to members of the Anglesey Druid Order about the significance of the sunrise of the solstice at Bryn Celli Ddu.
As dusk falls, the site will open to an evening of immersive soundscapes and a live performance from headline artist Gwenno. Playing an ambient electronic/techno set consisting of songs from her three albums, Gwenno’s set will celebrate the collective unconscious, the cyclical nature of life, and our sense of place in the world.
The evening will focus on the beauty of Bryn Celli Ddu’s dark skies location and become a place for audiences to witness a series of live performances, from singers, musicians, sound artists, and more.
George Harris, Director at TinShed Theatre Co, said: “Heuldro will welcome up to 300 visitors to immerse themselves in an audible and visual feast.
“Bringing international musicians such as Gwenno to an iconic site of Welsh history is sure to bring the community together, and celebrate the rich arts scene we have in Wales.”
Dr Ffion Reynolds, Heritage and Arts Manager at Cadw, said: “We hope the event encourages more visitors to attend Cadw sites in the area to discover more about local history and archaeology, and we look forward to sharing the unique experience with visitors and Cadw members alike.”
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