To mark the start of an exciting autumn season, Osian Gwynn, Director of Pontio Arts Centre in Bangor, invites you to explore the rich cultural landscape of North Wales. From intimate theatre performances to international music acts, this guide offers a glimpse into the vibrant arts scene that perfectly complements the region's natural beauty.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something here to inspire and delight.
Dear readers and customers of Boltholes & Hideaways,
I’m delighted to be able to introduce myself and Pontio Arts Centre to you, as visitors to this beautiful area – or even if you’re thinking about visiting, I’m hoping this blog might persuade you. My name’s Osian Gwynn and I’m Director of Pontio Arts Centre, a cultural venue at the heart of Bangor, on the gateway to the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) and on the edge of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park. Having spent time in London and Cardiff as a freelance opera singer, I love the contrast between the city and the country and Northwest Wales is just that – but it also has a rich culture that is very easily accessible.
From community pubs, to great coffee shops, delicious local produce from local farms and sustainably sourced seafood, coupled with breathtaking mountains, lakes and stunning beaches, it really is an idyllic area. The cherry on top – in my view, at least – is the amazing cultural offering and local heritage that can be experienced here. Pontio Arts Centre is part of Bangor University and is a state of the art venue, that’s only 10 years old. Its theatre is named after the world famous local bass-baritone, Sir Bryn Terfel. We have housed and presented artists and organisations from the local area to international acts.
Whilst I’m sure there are a multitude of sights that you want to experience, I would encourage you to savour a moment of quiet at our cinema and also some of the amazing live productions we have to offer. Variety is the spice of life! The autumn is definitely one of our most exciting seasons ever, so I’ve picked some highlights out for you!
Lanterns on the Lake – 13th of September
I’d describe this band as indie-folk with beautiful, haunting melodies and harmonies. I think they’re the perfect soundtrack to the beauty of the local landscape and I’m sure there are a few tunes you’ll recognise. From Newcastle Upon Tyne, they’ve performed all over the world and we’re thrilled that they’re coming to North Wales! Some other hot tips from this autumn that I think you’ll enjoy are:
Olion – 24th-28th of September
A site specific theatre and dance production, performed at Pontio and all over Bangor by local and international artists. This will be a performance that puts Bangor on the world stage!
The Duke – 24th of October
A one man show from Anglesey raised performer Shon Dale-Jones, who has performed at Edinburgh Fringe many times.
Seckou Keita – 9th of November
The internationally renowned kora player from Senegal returns to Pontio for a solo show this November that promises to be a spectacular performance of world music that is sure to inspire.
Those are a few highlights from a packed programme that I’m sure you’ll enjoy and will make your trip a truly memorable one!
It’s been lovely to introduce myself and Pontio to you and I hope you have a wonderful holiday.
Osian.
You can find out more about Pontio’s events, history and so much more, here.
