Llangollen’s International Musical Eisteddfod is preparing to mark its 80th anniversary with a packed programme of music and song.
The 2027 celebrations will feature headline appearances by pianist and bandleader Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, alongside opera stars Sir Bryn Terfel, Natalya Romaniw, and Noah Stewart.
John Gambles, chairman of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: "Our 80th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Llangollen so special, and these two concerts perfectly reflect both our heritage and our future.
"These will be two truly special world-class events that will launch our anniversary celebrations in spectacular style, and we're delighted to welcome such outstanding artists to Llangollen as we celebrate 80 remarkable years."
The Eisteddfod’s anniversary programme will feature Llangollen 80: Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, performing at the Llangollen Pavilion on Thursday, July 8.
The show will feature vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall, and Sumudu Jayatilaka.
A second major event, the Llangollen 80: Anniversary Gala Concert on Saturday, July 10, will include performances by Sir Bryn Terfel, Natalya Romaniw, and Noah Stewart.
They will appear with the Llangollen International Orchestra and massed male voice choirs.
The concert will highlight the festival’s Welsh choral tradition and global legacy.
Fans can secure their tickets now by signing up for the pre-sale, which goes live at 10am on Wednesday July 29.
Friends of the Eisteddfod can purchase tickets from 10am on Tuesday, July 28 and all tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 31.
All tickets are via llangollen.net
Dave Danford, artistic director of the Eisteddfod, said: "Jools Holland has a wonderful connection with Llangollen and always creates an incredible atmosphere, while our Anniversary Gala Concert brings together some of the finest voices in opera alongside the proud Welsh choral tradition that has always been at the heart of our festival.
"We're also thrilled to welcome back Sir Bryn Terfel, whose unforgettable celebration of sea songs and Welsh heritage was one of the highlights of last year's Eisteddfod.
"As one of Wales' greatest musical ambassadors and a longstanding friend of Llangollen, his return makes this anniversary year even more special."
Additional events are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Mr Holland, who is a vice president of the Eisteddfod, is a long-time supporter of the festival.
He has previously performed to thousands of festival-goers at Llangollen over the years and is known for his BBC series Later... with Jools Holland.
Both concerts form part of a broader anniversary programme.
They celebrate eight decades of promoting international understanding and friendship through music.
The programme also aims to reflect the Eisteddfod’s ongoing role as a cultural gathering that unites people from across the globe.
More information is available at llangollen.net.
