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Llangollen International Eisteddfod
Each year the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod plays host to some of the world's most talented musicians and performers.
This year is no exception, with West End and Broadway star Elaine Paige kicking off proceedings on July 8.
The high standard is maintained throughout the festival, culminating in performances by Alfie Boe,Elin Manahan Thomas and David Kempster - three of the most exciting young soloists singing today.
Another highlight is All Angels' performance on the Friday. The quartet bring a fresh and original take on classical music, making them a "must-see" act.
Such talent has been showcased at the Llangollen Eisteddfod since 1947 and it has firmly established itself as one of the world's premier classical music events.
Each July, between 2000 and 5000 competitors and as many as 50,000 visitors descend on the town to experience its magic.
In 1955 Luciano Pavarotti competed with his father and won the male voice choir competition with others from their home town of Modena. He returned for a spectacular concert in 1995, which is still spoken about today.
Placido Domingo's first professional experience in the United Kingdon was at the 1968 International Eisteddfod.Other musical stars that have appeared in the final Sunday Evening Gala Concert include Kiri Te Kanawa, Lesley Garrett, Bryn Terfel, Dennis O'Neil, James Galway and Montserrat Caballe.
Elaine Paige
Tuesday 8 July, 7.45pm
Elaine Paige comes armed with an orchestra of London musicians for the opening concert.
Paige created the part of Eva Peron in Evita and she was the first to perform the all-time hit Memory from Cats.
She has thrilled audiences all over the world and her Llangollen concert will mark 40 years in showbusiness.
Doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: £45, £35, £25, £15
(includes admission to the Eisteddfod Field)
Call 01978 862001
Alfie Boe, Elin Manahan Thomas and David Kempster
Sunday 13 July, 7.45pm
Three brilliant young soloists together with the orchestra of Welsh National Opera.
Alfie Boe is the hottest young tenor in Britain and regularly tops the classical charts. Elin Manahan Thomas is Universal Classics' latest star and is following in the footsteps of her friend Katherine Jenkins.
Together with the honeyed baritone of David Kempster they are set to bring the 2008 Eisteddfod to a magnificent conclusion.
Doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: £45, £35, £25, £15
All Angels
Friday 11 July, 7.45pm
United by their love of music, Melanie, Laura, Daisy and Charlotte combine to form a unique vocal quartet for the 21st century.
Their repertoire includes favourites such as Schubert' s Ave Maria, and the Sancta Maria Intermezzo from Cavalliera Rusticana, along with Delibes' Flower Duet from Lakme and Offenbach's Barcarolle.
The concert begins with a selection of colourful International Eisteddfod performers.
Doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: £25, £20, £15, £12
For further information and online bookings visit www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk.
