Music, storytelling, talks event in Presteigne, Powell

Cellist Clare O’Connell. <i>(Image: George Vass)</i>
Cellist Clare O’Connell. (Image: George Vass)
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Audiences are invited to experience a lively weekend of music and storytelling.

The 2026 Springboard Weekend, hosted by Presteigne Festival, promises a vibrant programme of performances and community events.

The weekend features music, talks, film, and family-friendly activities, extending the festival’s reach across the wider Presteigne community.

The line-up includes a solo recital by cellist Clare O’Connell, and a performance by Ukrainian bandura player and singer Galyna Grigoriadi.

Mezzo-soprano Lucy Gibbs and guitarist Declan Hickey will also perform.

The programme features music by Shropshire-born composer Jonty Watt, while Presteigne festival favourites The Velvet Violin return for a cabaret-style evening alongside guest artists.

The Springboard Weekend includes a range of talks, with Gavin Plumley and contemporary Welsh artist Dan Llywelyn Hall set to appear.

Mr Llywelyn Hall will discuss his book project, which draws inspiration from the Court of Owain Glyndŵr.

Children’s storyteller Philip Michell will present his show Dragon Tales, bringing Welsh legends to life with puppets, weaving Welsh myths and legends into an unforgettable experience.

The festival's wider commitment to emerging talent continues with a public workshop for early-career composers.

Six participants will have the opportunity to develop new works for solo cello, mentored by composer Mark Boden and cellist Clare O’Connell.

Presteigne Library will host free drop-in music sessions during the weekend.

A plant sale organised by Presteigne Plenty and the Community Gardeners will take place in Daphne’s Yard.

The weekend will conclude with a showing of Steven Spielberg’s spectacular film version of Leonard Bernstein’s ground-breaking musical West Side Story.

Tickets are now on sale via https://presteignefestival.com or by telephone (01544 267 800).

The full Springboard programme can be viewed or downloaded from https://presteignefestival.com/events/springboard2026.

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