Top acts sign up to take part in eisteddfod

Acts from as far afield as Jamaica to the Philippines and from New York to Sri Lanka have signed up to perform at this year's Llangollen International Eisteddfod, organisers revealed today.

The festival takes place this year from July 5 to 11 and over the years has attracted talent from around the world. Organisers say this year is no different and acts from all corners of the globe will perform alongside headline acts including Kathryn Jenkins and Nigel Kennedy.

The sunshine and exuberance of the Caribbean will be reflected in the presence of the Jamaican Folk Singers who will perform on July 9.

Musical director Christine MacDonald said: "It is the love of Jamaica and a sense of loyalty and dedication to the preservation of Jamaica's folk music heritage that keeps the group going."

The Young People's Chorus of New York City will perform from July 7 to 9.

Conductor Elizabeth Nunez said: "The children have been buzzing for months with excitement about our upcoming trip to Wales."

There will be plenty of Welsh talent on show too including Dawnswyr Sir Conwy on July 7.

The music of Sri Lanka will be heard when Soul Sound Academy Choir performs on July 6 and July 7. The De La Salle University Chorale, from Manila in the Philippines, will perform on July 9.

Founded in 1992, the UST Singers is a mixed choral ensemble representing the oldest university in Asia.

By Iain St Join