Wales.com - RSS Updates Feed

Cinderella on Ice

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

17 December - 4 January

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff

The world-famous Imperial Ice Stars who have won international critical acclaim with their tours of The Sleeping Beauty on Ice and Swan Lake on Ice set to thrill once more with their brand new production, Cinderella on Ice. Experience the wonder of this exciting new take on a classic tale.

The 25-strong cast of World, European and National Championship skaters are renowned for innovative skating and story-telling, and continue to break new ground in the genre of ice dancing with daring and graceful feats never attempted before - and all performed in the intimacy of a frozen theatre stage.

The production boasts lavish sets, special effects and opulent costumes. In this sophisticated new interpretation, The Imperial Ice Stars tell the story of Cinderella, a humble chorus dancer who is thrust into the spotlight as a prima ballerina and captivates the Lord Mayor’s handsome son.

Award-winning composer Karl Jenkins in New York

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

19 January

Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, NYC

Karl Jenkins from Wales is Britain’s biggest-selling living classical composer. He is best known for his Adiemus project which is performed by choirs throughout the world. His work The Armed Man: a Work for Peace was recently voted 8^th most popular classical piece ever by listeners to Britain’s radio station Classical FM, putting him next to Elgar and only a few places below Mozart and Rachmaninov.

He returns to New York on Martin Luther King Day - Jan 19, 2009 – when a concert of his work will be performed at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, including a world premiere performance of Sarikiz and a US premiere of Stabat Materand Te Deum.

Distinguished Concerts International is offering a special discount on tickets to friends of the Welsh Assembly Government. We attach details of this promotion and hope that you will book seats for what promises to be a veritable feast of good music.

Wales at UN climate change talks

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Wales’ Minister for the Environment, Jane Davidson is representing Wales at crucial UN talks in Poland to thrash out a new deal on climate change.

Thousands of delegates from 190 countries are working towards a new treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012, at the conference in the city of Poznan.

Ms Davidson is leading the Welsh delegation and meeting national and regional leaders to see what action they can take together to contribute to the battle against climate change.

Regional leaders from all over the world are there including South Australia Premier Mike Rann and President Abdoulaye Senes, President of the Fatick Region of Senegal. The Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger will also address delegates via video link.

Environment, Sustainability & Housing Minister Jane Davidson told the Climate Leaders Summit that Wales can play its part: "Wales is a small country, and what we do may be minor on a global scale, but we are determined to show that a small, clever nation can be at the forefront of the drive to reduce greenhouse gasses and promote sustainable energy."

Jane Davidson is Vice-Chair for Europe of the Network of Regional Governments for Sustainable Development (nrg4SD). The group, co-founded by the Welsh First Minister Rhodri Morgan in 2002, are meeting in Poland.

The Welsh Assembly Government has set a target of reducing green house gasses in devolved areas by 3 percent from 2011.

Calennig - New Years Eve

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 9 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

31 December

Cardiff

New Years Eve celebrations and free live music. Visit the Calennig website for more details.

Shane Williams wins BBC award

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 8 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh rugby player, Shane Williams has won the BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year. It was a close run competition due to the high Welsh achievement in sport in 2008.

Nominees alongside Williams for the award were Olympic Gold medal cyclists Nicole Cooke and Geraint Thomas, Olympic Gold medal rower Tom James, Paralympic Gold medal swimmer David Roberts and undefeated boxing World Champion Joe Calzaghe. The winner was voted for by the Welsh public.

Williams has had a successful year. He bought Wales to Grand Slam victory in the RBS six nations tournament and was named player of the tournament. Recently he won international rugby's greatest personal accolade to become the International Rugby Board's world player of the year.

Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones has applauded each of the nominees for their parts in what has been a truly fantastic year for Welsh sport. He said "Any one of these fantastic competitors would have been a worthy winner of this honour and the standard of this field speaks volumes for what an amazing year it has been for Welsh sport"

Swansea wins £3m to solve Einstein's Theory

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 8 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea University in South Wales has been given a £3m award to explore Einstein's unfinished unified field theory, the so-called "theory of everything".

The Science and Techonology Facilities Council (STFC) has granted the sum to the theoretical particle physics group at Swansea university to research and hopefully solve Einstein's final theory and unify the theory with modern quantum theory, which would be key to understanding the creation of the universe.

Professor Graham Shore, deputy head of the school of physical sciences and the groups principal investigator said "The award of the grant is a clear recognition of the important and exciting role that physics has to play in the wider world, and it will enable us to continue our research into the areas of physics that have the potential to impact greatly on the our understanding of the universe".

Find out more at www.swansea.ac.uk

Rare Leonardo Da Vinci Exhibition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 8 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

8th November to 7th February

Aberystwyth

A special exhibition to mark the Prince of Wales' 60th birthday has opened at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.

The collection includes ten rare drawings by Leonardo Da Vinci which have been selected from the Royal Collection. The National Library of Wales is one of only four places in the UK showing the exhibition.

Find out more at http://www.llgc.org.uk/

Waterfront Winterland

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 5 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

22 November - 4 January

Swansea

The grounds of the National Waterfront Museum have been transformed into a Waterfront Winterland complete with ice rink and festive fairground rides.

www.waterfrontwinterland.com

A Child’s Christmas in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

8 December

Guy Masterson performs A Child’s Christmas in Wales: Stories and Poems by Dylan Thomas.

Presented by Handcart Ensemble and Verse Theater Manhattan at the Ideal Glass Gallery, New York, on December 8^th. Memories and musings of Dylan Thomas in a rare US performance by actor Guy Masterson.

Like his great-uncle Richard Burton before him, Masterson has a shamanistic gift for voicing the earthy lyricism and colorful characterizations that fill Thomas’s works.

Reservations@ smarttix.com or 212-868-4444.

Welsh actor in Women Beware Women

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

12 September - 1 May

Welsh actor Geraint Wyn Davies in Women Beware Women by Thomas Middleton

Presented by Red Bull Theater at St. Clements’ Theatre, New York, this production is the first Off Broadway revival of Middleton’s uproarious masterpiece in nearly 40 years.

Tickets On Sale Now at www.redbulltheater.com or 2123523101.

Richard Burton’s daughter in The Corn is Green

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

9 January – 8 February

Richard Burton’s daughter and grandson star in The Corn is Green by Emlyn Williams

Performed by The Huntington Theatre and directed by Nicholas Martin at the Boston University Theatre.

Idealistic and hardnosed schoolteacher Miss Moffat (played by Kate Burton) creates the first school in a Welsh coal-mining town, and helps an illiterate teenager (played by Ms. Burton’s son Morgan Ritchie) transform from bully to brilliant student.

www.huntingtontheatre.org

Duffy nominated for three Grammy awards

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh pop sensation Duffy has picked up three nominations for the US Grammy Awards.

As well as a nomination for Best New Artist, her album 'Rockferry' has been nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album and her smash hit single 'Mercy'for the Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

High-profile visit boosts links with India

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 1 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The High Commissioner of India, Shiv Shankar Mukherjee, visited Wales from 24 – 25 November 2008. He called on the First Minister for Wales, Rt Hon Rhodri Morgan AM and then met representatives of International Business Wales (IBW). The High Commissioner visited the Senedd, home to the National Assembly for Wales, before attending a lunch hosted by the Lord Mayor of the City & County of Cardiff, the Rt. Hon Councillor Kate Lloyd MBE, JP. A reception and dinner was arranged for the evening of the 24^th November by the India Centre Wales.

On the 25^th November the High Commissioner visited the Corus Strip Products works at Port Talbot. He was welcomed and given a tour of the site by Mr Uday Chaturvedi, Managing Director, Corus Strip Products UK. The programme continued with a visit to the University of Glamorgan’s Renewable Hydrogen Research & Development Centre where he was met by Professor Dennis Hawkes, Professor Alan Guwy and the Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Brian Hobbs.

The final call of the day was to Cardiff University (see below for more details). A dinner in honour of the High Commissioner was hosted in the evening by Mr Chaturvedi. Guests included the Welsh Assembly Government Minister for Social Justice and Local Government, Dr Brian Gibbons AM, and the Chairman of Glamorgan Cricket Club, Mr Paul Russell.

The High Commissioner also visited Cardiff University where he discussed the development of further links between Cardiff and India.

The High Commissioner had an opportunity to find out more about Cardiff's recruitment activities overseas, its strong history of recruiting Indian students and its relationship with international institutions.

The visit came at a particularly appropriate time as 2008 has seen the highest ever number of Indian students enrolling at the University. There are currently almost 500 Indian students studying across the University at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.

The University also has strong academic links with India.

Cardiff Business School signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Institute of Management in Calcutta in 2006 which has already seen a number of exchanges by both sides.
The School of Biosciences has an agreement with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, focusing on joint research and scientific visits.
Academics from the School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies have paid several visits to the Asian College of Journalism in Chennai.
Another successful collaboration is between the School of Engineering and the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. The agreement between the two has so far led to joint research funding proposals, joint academic publications, and the visits of leading professors to the UK.

Photography competition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Calling all photographers - enter your photos of Wales and Welsh life in our competition!

We’re looking for photos that represent ‘a day in the life’ of people in

Wales

. We want photos that show the real, human face of our country. Photos that portray all aspects of life in

Wales

e.g. people in work or out and about enjoying themselves, students at college, people commuting or where you live.

Wales is a unique country and we want to show this off to the rest of the world. Do you think you can capture this view of

Wales

in a photograph? If so, send it in to us by 31 January 2009.

All photos submitted may be used on our website and/or in material used to promote

Wales

around the world.

Closing date: 31 January 2009

See our photo competition page for full details.

Welsh spoken in the EU for first time

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh was spoken officially for the first time at a European Union Institution in Brussels this week following a long negotiation led by the Welsh Assembly Government EU Office.

On Thursday, the Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones became the first person to speak Welsh at the Council of Ministers (Education, Youth and Culture Council); WAG interpreters were on hand to help interpret the Welsh contribution into the other 23 official languages of the EU.

Wales to take centre stage at Smithsonian festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The sights and sounds of Wales are set to take centre stage at one of the major festivals in the United States next year.

Wales will be the featured nation at the 2009 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which takes place annually on the National Mall in Washington, for 10 days at the end of June and the beginning of July.

The Festival celebrates the cultural traditions of communities from across the United States and from around the world, and an exciting programme featuring more than 100 specialist participants from Wales awaits visitors to next year’s festival

Speaking at the launch of Wales Smithsonian Cymru 2009 last night [13 November] in the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, where the festival programme was launched, First Minister Rhodri Morgan said:

“The main theme of Wales’ programme will be sustainability. As well as fitting in well with the newly elected President’s emphasis on the environment, global warming and ‘green collar’ jobs, our programme will present a dynamic view of Wales, its cultural and economic impact on the world, with themes ranging from the traditional to the contemporary and highlighting diversity and innovation, past, present and future, and the use of traditional methods to create new green solutions, products and processes. Festival presentations will include music and literary performances, storytelling, animation, genealogy searches, Welsh language lessons, craft skills, building restoration, cookery demonstrations, industrial heritage and new technologies, farming methods, outdoor pursuits and traditional and modern medicine.

“To be the featured nation is a great honour and a massive opportunity for Wales. The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is a major event, attracting over one million visitors from across the USA and further afield. This means that this will be a great showcase for Wales where a great many visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about Wales and its contemporary cultures and traditions. Hopefully, this in turn will inspire them to visit Wales to see the country and its beautiful landscape for themselves, and buy products and services from us, which will give a boost to our economy and tourism industry.

“What better way could there be to see the deep-rooted and vibrant culture and creativity of Wales than this showcases for ten days right in the heart of the capital of the United States.”

In his response to the First Minister, Secretary G.Wayne Clough, of the Smithsonian Institution, who addressed the launch by video-message, said:

“We are delighted that Wales will be featured at the 43^rd Folklife Festival in our nation’s capitol in 2009. Special thanks to the First Minister Rhodri Morgan and everyone in his administration for joining our partnership. As 12th Secretary of the Smithsonian and one with strong Clough family connections to Wales I am particularly excited. We have much to celebrate and much to learn from each other. Welsh Cultural life will be available at the Smithsonian for generations as a result of this experience.”

Wales’ presence at the festival will be extended through ancillary programmes that will begin in March 2009 and will be presented in collaboration with partner organisations in Washington DC. These activities and events will include a wide range of contemporary arts, a focus on sustainable living and climate change and trade and tourism initiatives.

More information is available on our Wales Smithsonian Cymru 2009 pages.

Vietnamese Writer wins Dylan Thomas Prize

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

29 year old Nam Le from Vietnam was named winner of the UK's largest literary prize during a ceremony at the Brangwyn Hall in Swansea.

The Dylan Thomas Prize recgonises young writers under the age of 30 from all over the globe who have published work in the English language.

Nam Le who is now based in New York was awarded £60,000 for his short story collection, The Boat.

The prize's ambassador Catherine Zeta-Jones said "I am delighted to hear that we have another worthy winner in Nam Le.

The six finalists this year are all immensly talented young writers, who have exciting careers ahead of them, which I am sure will have been boosted by the recognition of the prize"

Find out more about Nam Le and the other shortlisted writers at www.thedylanthomasprize.com/

Welsh Kitesurfer wins world title

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kirsty Jones from Carmarthenshire has won her first world title at the kitesurf world championships in Essaouira in Morocco.

Kirsty has been leading the Kitesurf Pro World Tour and in 2002 she became the first person to kitesurf across the Irish Sea.

After winning the title she said "It's been an amazing year for me doing the KPWT world tour. Last year I missed out on the title by a small margin and this year I was determined to become world champion - this is my dream come true.

The final in Morocco was by far the toughest for me as I put so much pressure on myself to win this final event"

Kirsty now plans to organise another long distance kitesurf for charity.

Dylan Thomas Walking Tour

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Visitors to New York and any lover of Dylan Thomas’s poetry, will enjoy this self-guided tour of ten places in Greenwich Village associated with the Welsh poet.

Dylan toured the USA four times and spent a lot of time in Greenwich Village, New York, and died there on November 9th 1953. He was one of the greatest English-language poets and a very colourful character. The leisurely 2-hour tour will introduce you to some of Dylan’s poetry, the bars and restaurants he frequented, the places where he stayed, his readings, his friendships, and the real facts behind his premature death in the city.

The tour was written by Aeronwy Thomas, daughter of Dylan, and Welsh poet Peter Thabit Jones, in association with the Welsh Assembly Government in New York.

Download our MP3 file to hear the audio version of the tour recorded by actor John Pierce Jones and musician Huw Chiswell.

Wakestock

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

10-12 July

Abersoch, Llyn Peninsula

Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival.

www.wakestock.co.uk

Royal Welsh Show

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

20 - 23 July

Builth Wells

Britain’s most popular agricultural show.

www.rwas.co.uk

The Big Cheese

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

24-26 July

Caerphilly

One of the largest free gatherings of re-enactments, entertainers, music and folk dancing.

www.caerphilly.gov.uk/bigcheese

National Eisteddfod of Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

1-8 August

Outskirts of Bala

This cultural gathering is dedicated to Welsh, Britain’s oldest living language.

www.eisteddfod.org.uk

Brecon Jazz Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

7 - 9 August

Brecon

International festival attracting the top names from the world of jazz.

www.breconjazz.co.uk

Anglesey County Show

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

11-12 August

Isle of Anglesey

Agricultural Show

www.angleseyshow.org.uk

The Green Man Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

21 - 23 August

Glanusk Park, Crickhowell

Alternative 3 day folk festival in the Brecon Beacons.

www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk

S4C Wales Ladies Championship of Europe

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

12 - 15 August

Royal St David’s Golf Club, Harlech

Ladies European Tour golf tournament

www.royalstdavids.co.uk

www.rydercupwales2010.com

Bryn Terfel Faenol Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

28 - 31 August

Faenol Estate, Near Bangor

Three star-studded concerts with the mountains of Snowdonia as their backdrop.

www.brynfest.com

World Bog Snorkelling Championship

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

31 August

Llanwrtyd Wells

Competitors snorkel the length of a peaty murky trench in a Mid Wales bog.

www.green-events.co.uk

Abergavenny Food Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

19 - 20 september

Abergavenny

Local produce and international delicacies, celebrity chefs, masterclasses, tastings and street stalls.

www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Elvis Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

25 – 27 September

Porthcawl

The biggest Elvis festival in Europe, attracting Elvis tribute acts from all over the world.

www.elvies.co.uk

Cardigan Festival of Walking

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

2 - 4 October

Cardigan

Offers a selection of walks appealing to all abilities.

www.visitcardigan.com

Dylan Thomas Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

27 October - 9 November

Swansea

Over two weeks of arts events to celebrate the life and work of Wales' most famous writer. Events for this year's 11th festival include readings, talks, theatre performances, music, art, films and celebrity guests.

www.dylanthomas.com

Wales Rally GB

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff, South and Mid Wales.

Final round of the World Rally Championship

www.walesrallygb.com

Cardiff's Winter Wonderland

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Add your text here

Real Ale Ramble

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Take a walk through mid Wales' countryside, with real ale refreshment along the way.

www.green-events.co.uk

Calzaghe Triumphs Again

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 9 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh boxing legend Joe Calzaghe has been called one of Britain's greatest ever sporting champions after defeating Roy Jones Jr in Madison Square Garden.

The fight, which may be his last, is Calzaghe's 46th unbeaten fight in a row. Travelling fans from Wales made up half of the 14,152 inside Madision Square Garden and the venue was awash with Welsh flags.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said "Joe's victory at Madison Square Garden over Roy Jones Jnr, sets the seal on one of the most outstanding careers in the history of boxing, whether you are talking abut Welsh boxing, British boxing or World boxing."

Rare Leonardo Da Vinci Exhibition in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 8 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A special exhibition to mark the Prince of Wales' 60th birthday has opened at the National Library of Wales.

Find out more at www.llgc.org.uk

Dylan Thomas Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

27 October - 9 November

Swansea

www.dylanthomas.com

Wales Rally GB

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

4-7 December

Cardiff, south and mid Wales

The final round of the FIA World Rally Championship.

www.walesrallygb.com

On Thursday 4 December, the Wales Rally GB will host free entertainment in Cardiff City Centre for the official start of the 2008 Wales Rally GB.

The event will take place at King Edward VII Avenue, adjacent to Winter Wonderland and Cardiff City Hall. The entertainment begins at 4.30pm when the world’s top rally drivers, including five-times World Champion Sébastien Loeb, will meet fans and sign autographs until 5pm.

Between 5-5.30pm, Britain’s top rally drivers and the leading competitors in the FIA Production World Rally Championship will be available for autographs, before the spotlight moves to the start ramp itself. The first of 86 competing cars will be flagged away at 6pm.

Rally cars and drivers will return to King Edward VII Avenue on Sunday 7 December, when the official Finish Ceremony takes place.

Quiltfest

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

2-27 February

Llangollen

Held at the Royal International Pavillion in Llangollen in North Wales this annual event features anything and everything to do with quiltmaking. Featured artist will be Nikki Tinkler and there will also be works from Anglia Textile Works and Hanging Together. Visit the website for more information.

www.quiltfest.org.uk

Wales v England

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

14 February

Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Our Welsh rugby team take on England in the RBS six nations tournament at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff

www.millenniumstadium.com

St David's Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

1 March

St David’s Day (Dydd Gwyl Dewi Sant)

Celebrate our Patron Saint at events around the country.

Wales v Ireland

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

21 March

Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Our Welsh rugby team take on Ireland in the Six Nations Rugby International at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

www.millenniumstadium.com

Hay Festival of Literature

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

21-31 May

Hay-on-Wye

Bill Clinton has called the Guardian Hay Festival the 'Woodstock of the Mind' Britain’s ‘town of books’ is the ideal setting for this literary festival with an international reputation.

www.hayfestival.com

Urdd National Eisteddfod

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

25 - 30 May

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff

Europe’s largest youth arts festival.

www.urdd.org

Celtic Manor Resort Wales Open

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

4 - 7 June

Celtic Manor, Newport

European tour event attracting the world’s top golfers to the home of the 2010 Ryder Cup.

www.walesopen.com

Gower walking festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

6 – 21 June

Gower Peninsula, Swansea

Choose from 37 walks over two weeks along the Gower Peninsula.

www.mumblestic.co.uk

Man v horse marathon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

13 June

Llanwrtyd Wells

A 22-mile race between runners, cyclists and horses – a runner won for the first time in 2004.

www.green-events.co.uk

Ryder Cup Wales Seniors Open

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

19 - 21 June

Royal Porthcawl Golf Club

International Seniors Golf

www.rydercupwales2010.com

Pembrokeshire Fish Week

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

27 June – 5 July

Around the coast of Pembrokeshire

Cokery demonstrations, fishing and boat trips, children's workshops, fishing competitions and much more.

www.fishweek.co.uk

Cardiff Summer Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

July/August

Cardiff

Features the best in street theatre, live music, children’s entertainment, Celtic food and drink, culminating in “The Big Weekend”, the UK’s largest free open air festival.

www.cardiff-festival.com

Beyond the Border

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

3 - 5 July

St Donats, Vale of Glamorgan

Welsh International Storytelling Festival

www.beyondtheborder.com

LLangollen International Musical Eisteddfod

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

7-12 July

Llangollen

One of Wales’s major annual events - a truly international festival of music, dance and song.

www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

The Ashes 2009 Series

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

8-12 July

SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff

England v. Australia

www.glamorgancricket.com

Celebrating the red dragon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Eight emerging visual artists from China have completed a month-long residency at institutions and centres in Wales.

Wales Arts International, British Council and the Welsh Assembly Government are now developing the second part of this project in China, titled Celebrating The Red Dragon.

To find out more about the project see www.wai.org.uk/china

Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

"A Child's Christmas in Wales" Concert featuring the Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir, Christopher Thomas, from CBC, as narrator, Metropolitan Silver Band, Betty Allison, soloist, and Clement Carelse, organ.

Saturday, November 29, 2008 @ 7:30 pm
Kingsview United Church
505 Adelaide Street East, Oshawa
Tickets: $20

Wednesday, December 3, 2008 @ 7:30 pm
Metropolitan United Church
56 Queen Street East, Toronto
Tickets: $25.00
Contact: 416-410-2254
1-877-410-2254 (Area codes 905 & 705)
www.ticketbreak.com or www.twmvc.com

Swiss lecture in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An informal lecture by Dr Ruetschi from Berne on the use of the Swiss National Languages in the administration of justice in the Swiss civil and criminal courts will take place at 7pm on 14 November 2008 atMorgan Cole, Solicitors, Bradley Court, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3DP.

The topic of the lecture is 'The use of the Swiss National Languages in the administration of justice in the Swiss civil and criminal courts with emphasis on the linguistic rights of the litigants and witnesses. The Swiss Experience. Can Wales benefit?'

Followed by a short Drinks Reception. Courtesy of the Swiss Embassy in London.

If you would like to attend please contact Ms Ruth Thomas-Lehman by 10 November by post at:

Ruth Thomas-Lehmann, Honorary Consul, Consulate of Switzerland, Bradley
Court, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3DP.

or Phone/Fax: 01792 423504 or e mail: swissconsulate@swissinwales.org

Real Ale Ramble

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 6 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

22-23 November

Llanwrtyd Wells

Take a walk through mid Wales' countryside, with real ale refreshment along the way.

Find out more at Green Events

Cardiff's Winter Wonderland

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 6 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

12 November - 4 January

Cardiff

Outdoor ice skating and family entertainment on Cardiff’s City Hall Lawn.

See www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com for details.

Trinity College welcomes International Fellow

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 6 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Trinity College has welcomed the first International Fellow to the School of Education Studies and Social Inclusion. Kevin Smith, from the Miami University of Ohio is spending a semester at the College to undertake research into school pupils’ understanding of Welshness and how their school contributes to their cultural identity. His Fellowship is supported through the Welsh American Academy which aims to promote cultural and educational collaboration between the two countries.

Kevin says “Wales is a perfect place to study cultural identity because of the Cwricwlwm Cymraeg. This is a phenomenological study in which I am looking for cogent themes on Welshness.

During his time at Trinity Kevin has also been lecturing to students studying degree programmes in social inclusion and education studies. However, Kevin is no stranger to Wales having family connections in Aberbargoed. He is a frequent visitor and a keen Welsh learner. Last year he presented a paper, “Education as Liberation: Imperialism and its effects on African American and Welsh Education”, at the Transatlantic Exchange Conference organised by the Centre for Research into the English Literature and Language of Wales (CREW) at Swansea University which looked at the links between African Americans and Celtic peoples and cultures.

Kevin Matherick, Head of the Faculty of Arts and Social Studies and Director of the Welsh American Academy said “This is an exciting time for the Academy with the first International Fellow from the USA here with us in Wales. Kevin Smith is providing many stimulating opportunities to share examples of good practice from across the Atlantic and to undertake research for his doctoral studies and investigate his Welsh heritage further”.

Prince of Wales to honour students' achievements

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Awards for the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff’s graduation ceremony in Brunei will be presented by The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

On Saturday 1st November an awards ceremony will be held for successful Bruneian students who have studied at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff (UWIC).

The Vice-Chancellor of UWIC, Professor Antony Chapman, will be joined by HRH the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at the University of Brunei Darrusalem for the award ceremony.

Twenty six Bruneian students will receive their awards across a range of subjects including environmental health, sport and biomedical sciences. This ceremony is in addition to the annual UWIC degree ceremony held each summer in Cardiff.

John Phillips, Dean of International Students at UWIC and also Chair of the British Universities Brunei Association said: “The university values its relationship with Brunei and is proud that the success of this years students is to be honoured by the attendance of HRH Prince of Wales”.

“The graduating students are absolutely delighted and we will have an audience of more than 300 family and friends for whom it will be a very special day”, he continued.

Nur Ainiedza Haji Idris, a 22yr old graduating student with a BSC Honours degree in Applied Human Nutrition, said: “UWIC is a very welcoming university and I have found all the staff to be very supportive. Cardiff is an ideal city for Bruneians – I was very happy there. I am very pleased to be receiving my academic award from HRH Prince of Wales; it is a wonderful day for my family to celebrate my success”.

Dylan Thomas' home opens to the public

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The childhood home of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas has been opened to the public on what would have been his 94th birthday.

The house in Swansea has been restored to what it would have looked like in 1914 and is available for holiday makers to stay there as a self catering holiday home.

Guests will be given a newspaper from 1914 and will enjoy period furniture and household items. Modern items like fridge-freezers and televisions are banned.

Much of the poets early work was written in the house at 5 Cwmdonkin Drive in Swansea. Find out more at www.5cwmdonkindrive.com/

Polish Ambassador visits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In early October Ms Barbara Tuge – Erecinska, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland visited Wales.

In addition to meeting with the First Minister Rt Hon Rhodri Morgan, the Ambassador had the opportunity to learn more about the significant Polish community in Wales, business and cultural links with Poland and the Memorandum of Understanding with Silesia.

Green technologies take centre stage

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

World beating technologies developed in Wales for the green automotive sector will be showcased on Tuesday October 28 at the UK’s first national low carbon vehicle event.

It will position Wales as a leading centre for the development of alternative fuel technologies and provide an opportunity to exhibit some unique technologies and vehicles that have been developed in Wales with the support of the Welsh Assembly Government.

International Business Wales- the Assembly Government’s international trade and investment arm – is one of the sponsors of the event at Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire.

Organised by CENEX (Centre of Excellence for Low Carbon & Fuel Cell Technology) the event will be the launch pad for the Technology Strategy Board’s new Integrated Delivery Programme which will support the commercialisation of lower carbon vehicles in the UK with an initial investment of £50million.

The invitation-only event is due to attract more than 800 delegates including policy-makers and international experts from across Europe together with representatives from vehicles manufacturers, specialist supply chains, technology companies and fleet operators.

Wales will have a high profile at the event and the Welsh pavilion will feature:

The Hydrogen Bus – the world’s first Tribrid minibus developed by Glamorgan University
The only retrofit hybrid system in the world developed by Connaught Engineering;
The NARO car- a tandem two seater car with the dynamics of a motorbike;
Atraverda which is developing the world’s first commercially viable bi-polar lead acid battery using its patented Ebonex technology;
Stevens Vehicles – zero carbon emission electric powered cars and vans.

The recently opened Hydrogen Research Centre at Baglan Energy Park will also be promoted at the show along with the specialist expertise in Welsh Universities that are working on collaborative projects with the automotive industry.

Read the full article at the official Welsh Assembly Government website.

More Welsh medals at Beijing Olympics

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister Rhodri Morgan and Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones have congratulated Geraint Thomas on his Gold Medal as part of the record-breaking men’s pursuit race at the Beijing Olympics.

Geraint Thomas and his team mates stormed to success in the men’s pursuit race against Denmark, breaking their own record to land the Gold for Britain.

Thomas joins fellow Olympic medal winners Tom James from Wrexham and Tom Lucy from Monmouth who rowed to victory at the weekend, and Wick-born Nicole Cook who took the first Gold for Great Britain.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said: “This is the best Olympics for Wales for many years. Geraint Thomas’ medal and world record, as part of the team pursuit, really was a fantastic achievement."

Walestonia Day celebrated in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The long standing relationship between Wales and Estonia was celebrated at a festival in Cardiff in the week of the 13 October

On 15 October the President of Estonia Toomas Hendrik Ilves opened the Estonian-Wales business seminar in Cardiff and met the First Minister for Wales Rt Hon Rhodri Morgan.

The President also visited the St Donats Arts Centre and the Atlantic College to celebrate the Walestonia Festival organised by the Estonian Embassy.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said "The Walestonia Festival brings together two small but proud countires who enjoy celebrating their distinctive national cultures and who therefore can understand each other in a way bigger countries cannot"

Find out more at http://www.walestonia.com/

Graduates amongst most employable

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea University’sgraduates are among the UK’s most employable, according to statistics released this month.

The annual performance indicators are published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the central source for the collection and dissemination of statistics about publicly funded higher education in the UK.

This year’s results show that 95.5% of the University’s graduates who leave with a first degree from full-time courses are either employed or in further study within six months of graduating.

The figure is significantly above the UK and Welsh benchmarks of 93.8% and 93.9% respectively.

The “employment of graduates” statistics are published by HESA.

Scientists in Wales to Unlock Secrets

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Professor Bangalore Sathyaprakash and his team at Cardiff University are working on research that they hope will reveal information about the beginning of the universe.

The team are part of the Einstein Telescope project which has just recieved 3 million euros for it's design stage which could be as significant as the Big Bang experiment in Geneva.

Professor Sathyaprakash said "In five to seven years I think we will be big news"

"Einstein Telescope will go beyond the advanced detectors and should help us understand the orgins of the universe and it's workings far better than we are able to do today" he added.

Other research institutes from England, Scotland, Germany, Italy, Holland and France are also involved in this project.

Restaurant best user of local ingredients

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

More and more eateries are making the most of Wales’s asset - the fine quality of our local ingredients.

A bunch of places now emphasise the use of locally sourced ingredients in their menus, offering customers a real ‘sense of place’. A Welsh restaurant, The Hardwick in Abergavenny, has now been given the Editor’s Choice Award for Best Use of Local Produce in the Good Food Guide 2009.

Stephen Terry, the owner, has worked alongside michelin starred Marco Pierre White and Michel Roux. He says “Our philosophy is simple and honest. We source, cook and serve to the best of our abilities at all times. Our produce is treated with the respect it deserves and served with the minimum of fuss and maximum of flavour. We use seasonal produce which allows our customers and staff alike to look forward to certain ingredients throughout the year”.
The Hardwick is actually a country pub which very much leans towards being a restaurant and the editor of the Good Food Guide says “You don’t have to be a posh restaurant to get into the Good Food Guide”.

For a sneak preview of what’s on the menu visit their website at http://www.thehardwick.co.uk/

Abergavenny is also celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Food Festival from 20-21 September. This year, there’s also an exciting Fringe programme which kicks off in the weeks running up to the festival. For information visit http://www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com/

Duffy Leads Award Nominations

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

North Wales singer Duffy is topping nomintations for the MTV music awards.

She has been nominated in three biggest categories, Album of the Year, Most Addicitve Track, and Best New Act. She joins music giants Coldplay and Britney Spears for the most nominated acts.

The awards will take place at the Echo Arena in Liverpool on the 6 November.