Llangollen Eisteddfod postponed until 2021 due to virus threat

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has been postponed until next year due to the coronavirus crisis.

A statement from the eisteddfod issued this morning says: "Following the latest government advice about the Coronavirus pandemic, we have made the decision to postpone the 74th Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in July 2020.  We are now working hard with our partners and artists to reschedule for Llangollen 2021.

"LIME’s founding mission was to bring diverse people together through shared music and dance experiences; it’s disheartening to put on hold what we do best. We would like to apologise to those who have been affected by our postponement and thank audiences for their understanding. As ever, we are grateful for your support.

"In the end, the decision was easy to make because it was, and is, all about the people who are at the heart of our International Eisteddfod. Our amazing audiences, loyal and supportive, who come every year to our small town nestled within the Dee Valley. Our ‘Parade of Nations’ - our international participants, who range from Loughgiel Folk Dancers in Northern Ireland to Mother Touch Dance Group in Zimbabwe: East Tennessee State University Youth Choir to Johns’ Boys in Rhosllanerchrugog.  

"Our concert artists, stage performers and traders, who have shown grace and understanding during an incredibly hard time across their sectors. Our local groups, schools and community, who each year work together with us to ensure access and enjoyment of our Eisteddfod for all. And last, but not least, our small dedicated staff team and almost 800 volunteers, who work tirelessly each year to achieve the great feat of putting on this International Eisteddfod.  These people are why we must postpone, to protect and to keep safe.

"We enter a period of unprecedented uncertainty. The one thing this year has taught us is just how destabilising uncertainty can be, uncertainty about our safety, our health and our financial security.   Over the next few weeks and months, we will do everything we can to support our artists, staff and community.

"Over the coming month, we will be are contacting affected customers by email or phone to advise on the next steps, refunds and rescheduling options. Due to the high volume of enquiries, and enforced home working, we urge customers not to contact us but we will be in touch as soon as possible and will endeavour to provide the most efficient customer service we can.

We will also post updates to our website and social media channels."