A world renowned cultural and iconic landmark celebrates its Ruby Birthday on Saturday 18th February. As part of St David’s Hall’s 40th celebratory programme Tomorrow, Saturday 18th, Arts Active will deliver an inclusive and diverse arts programme involving professional artists and community partners from across Cardiff at the National Concert Hall of Wales.
The Hall will be a hive of activity with events happening on Lefel 1, 2 & 3 and spilling out onto the front steps from 10am-10pm. From painted street pianos to young DJ’s, community choirs, world music, dance & drama to children’s musical theatre and craft workshops.
Bryony Harris – Manager Arts Active Programme told us…..
“Arts Active is delighted to be celebrating this milestone birthday with St Davids Hall and to mark the venue’s place at the heart of the city and the significance of its role as a hub for entertainment, culture and community.”
Three decorated public pianos pop up in Cardiff indoor market, St David’s (at the crossroads near Boots) and ground floor of St David’s Hall We are very excited that St David’s are on board as partners and have kindly agreed to host the piano for us from Saturday 18th -Tuesday 21st February. Celebrity artist NATHAN WYBURN will transform a baby grand piano with glitter and portraits of some iconic musicians, many of whom will have performed at the Hall at some point over the 40 years. A glitter makeover from top to pedals and fit for Dame Shirley Bassey herself.
Nathan said……
“I’m honoured to have been asked to revamp a baby grand piano to mark 40 amazing years of St David’s Hall! Being an artist that primarily creates pop culture and celebrity portraits.. it seemed best fitting to create some of Wales’ musical icons – in one of my signature materials, gold glitter. I’ve chosen Sir Tom Jones, Dame Shirley Bassey, Kelly Jones & Bonnie Tyler.”
For the piano situated in the indoor market, we have commissioned emerging young artist Amber Forde to design the artwork which will have a funk pop art feel to it. The artwork which will be hand drawn by Amber will include pop up illustrations and a painted backdrop to the wall where the piano will sit. This piano will remain after the birthday celebrations for shoppers and traders to enjoy.
The third piano, situated on the ground floor of the Hall, will have a collective makeover from a number of freelance artists and staff from Arts Active. This will have a sensory themed design with textures, materials and household items attached, making this piano a real interactive experience for children and families
At each of the pianos throughout the day on the 18th, there will be a mix of professional musicians, students and music enthusiasts along with shoppers and members of the public we hope too. Whether you wish to play a fave piece of music from classical, rock, jazz, pop or other, or simply have a little tinkle on the keys or even have a sing song, whatever takes your fancy. Just visit us in St David’s, ground floor (opposite Boots) and at our other locations and come join in the fun. Who knows we may find the next Jamie Cullum, Miles Davis or even Harry Styles!
AMBER FORDE is a multi disciplinary artist based in Cardiff. Amber was one of three artists who were commissioned to design and paint a selection of murals in and around Cardiff city Centre in 2021…..
“I am really excited to be a part of the project because being able to make a contribution in a unique, bean head way on something like a piano is honestly something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m looking forward to seeing the public reaction and it being used to create some beautiful melodies, I hope.”
There is so much on offer throughout the day for the young ones to the young at heart with all activities and events FREE. There is even a social media competition to WIN two FREE TICKETS to an event coming up at St David’s Hall. To be in with a chance of winning we are asking the public to share pics by tagging #StDavidsHall40. For further information on the programme of activities, pop to St David’s Hall, Cardiff – HERE
It’s fantastic to have St David’s and Cardiff Market on board to help make these celebrations a truly shared, inclusive community event. Please share and shout about this event through your social media channels with friends, families and colleagues.
Just tag them in on Twitter: @ArtsActive; Facebook: @artsactive Instagram: artsactivecardiff HERE The day and events are FREE, so please come and join in the fun as they celebrate this VERY SPECIAL BIRTHDAY.
