Issue 151

Whats On: Taliesin

29th January 2007

Taliesin celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act 1807 with a live performance of Denys Baptiste's musical tribute to Dr Martin Luther King 'Let Freedom Ring!' Featuring a line-up of top jazz musicians, many of whom have performed to acclaim at previous Taliesin gigs (Abram Wilson, Nathaniel Facey) Thursday 1 March will be a special evening for music lovers and should not be missed.

The London Shakespeare Company brings their critically acclaimed production 'Black Atlas' to Taliesin on 25 February. Inspired by George McDonald Fraser's novel Black Ajax, this tale of two African ex-slaves struggling to survive in Regency London is performed by a company that includes trained ex-offenders, and professional actors in the lead roles.

Stacey Kent and Jim Tomlinson bring music from their CD The Lyric, winner of the 2006 BBC jazz awards album of the year to campus on 16 March, while crowd pleasers Billy Cobham and Asere are back at Taliesin by popular demand on 13 May.

Thurs 7 June sees guitarist Paco Pena and his Flamenco Dance Company grace the boards at Swansea's premier arts venue. According to the New York Times "Mr Pena is a virtuoso capable of dazzling an audience beyond the frets of mortal man!"

In March, Taliesin presents Wales One World (WOW) Film Festival bringing the best of contemporary world cinema to Swansea campus. Festival highlights include the award winning 'House of Sand' set in Brazil and the inspirational documentary 'Refugee All Stars' featuring a band of musicians from wartorn Sierra Leone. The WOW festival runs from 12 to 27 March.

Comprehensive details of all events, plus details of student concessions can be obtained from Taliesin box office www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk. Alternatively you can ring Taliesin box office direct on 01792 602060.

Paul Seacome