WYTH is a brand-new project to promote traditional Welsh dance. The aim of the scheme, which is a partnership formed of Menter Maldwyn, Eisteddfod Genedlaethol, Cwlwm Celtaidd and a number of freelance artists, is to celebrate folk dancing and clogging, creating opportunities to pioneer unchartered territories within the genre.
The project will have several aspects and is funded through the Arts Council of Wales’s Connect and Flourish scheme. Latest developments can be followed on @8WYTH Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts.
WYTH is being launched publicly with two exciting announcements:
- WYTH COMMISION – £5000 is available to develop a show or performance which combines traditional dance with another genre, to be performed at this year’s National Eisteddfod at Llyn and Eifionydd in August. More information here.
- TWMPDAITH – Summer jobs for 8 young musicians and dancers between 16-25(ish). A week of training will be provided before touring Wales hosting twmpaths (Welsh barn dances). More information here.
Rhian Davies of Menter Maldwyn and project co-ordinator said, “Folk dancing, clogging and twmpaths are such an integral part of our heritage and identity as Welsh people. But more than that, dancing is so much fun and without a doubt brings joy to the soul. I don’t think it’s physically possible to dance and not crack a smile! WYTH is an opportunity for us to be playful and experimental and take traditional Welsh dance to new horizons. I can’t wait to see how the different elements of the project progresses.”
Sioned Edwards of the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol added, “WYTH will be an interactive project, developing new ways to foster creative talent in the field of traditional Welsh dance; developing a network of instructors to strengthen the community sector, creating creative pathways for dancers, and building a secure foundation to develop, promote and safeguard the tradition for the future whilst offering ambitious professional opportunities.” Rhian added, “The name WYTH (eight) was chosen for the project as the figure of eight is an important and regular pattern found in Welsh folk dancing and clog routines. It is also reflective of how we hope to weave Welsh traditional dance with other genres throughout the project. Efa Lois’s intricate work on the WYTH logo is fantastic. All the little images within the figure of eight reflect dance patterns and Welsh dance titles and melodies. Something different leaps out at me every time I look at it!”