The Dinefwr Literature Festival returns for its second year from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 June with an eclectic mix of literature, comedy, music and poetry – a wonderful celebration of the spoken word.
The festival, which takes place at the ancient Dinefwr Castle in Carmarthenshire, South Wales, is a diverse showcase of British talent in the arts, featuring a glittering line-up of feisty women from all ends of the artistic spectrum. In its second year, Dinefwr has gone from strength to strength, attracting a host of artists from across the UK, coming together to deliver an unmissable weekend for fans of literature, comedy, music and poetry.
On the Friday, Charlotte Church will be performing on the Rhys Stage following the release of her fourth EP. The following afternoon she will be in conversation with Kat Banyard, author of 'The Equality Illusion' and founder of UK Feminista – an organisation supporting grassroots feminist activism. In 2010, Banyard was named “the most influential young feminist in the country” by The Guardian. Their conversation promises to be an insightful commentary on feminism and the music industry.
On the same day, Laura Bates will be in discussion with journalist Alex Clark, chatting about the Everyday Sexism Project, which Bates herself founded. Now published as a book, it is a manifesto for change; a ground-breaking, anecdotal examination of sexism in modern day society.
Whilst there is a strong strand of social purpose to the festival, comedy also plays a central role in the weekend, with Bridget Christie set to perform her sell-out show, 'A Bic for Her'. She’ll also be trying out some new material ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe later in the summer – a sneak preview for fans of the acclaimed comedian.
The festival’s line-up will undoubtedly dazzle, but its setting will make jaws drop. Events will take place in Newton House, the National Trust’s stunning 17th century property, and in marquees in the grounds of the landscaped park, home to the famous White Park Cattle. This year the ancient Castle, which is reached by a woodland walk, will host performances, specially commissioned for the mythical setting.
Welsh tradition and heritage is a recurring theme at Dinefwr, with Welsh-born musician Cate Le Bon returning from the USA to perform at the festival. Contemporary Welsh writers Owen Sheers and Rhian Edwards will be speaking, as well as the National Poet of Wales, Gillian Clarke.
In addition to music, comedy and roundtables on social issues, there’s a myriad of family-oriented events ranging from nature trails to a lantern procession, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in the festival’s second year.
Dinefwr is quickly establishing itself as an innovative and inspiring weekend with something to offer all ages and demographics – an absolute must for the artsy feminists among us.
More information on the Dinefwr Literature Festival can be found here.
Tickets start at £20 and can be purchased here
Pictured: Bridget Christie, Dinefwr – credit: Visit Wales
