Find out what’s on in South Wales this week
Fans of 90’s alt-rock are in luck this week, as St. David’s Hall hosts An Evening With Texas (St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Tue 5 May, Tickets: from £43). Frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri has promised an intimate evening to celebrate the band’s 25th anniversary, so expect stories that span the band’s whole career alongside a selection of their greatest hits.
Rugby fans are brimming with excitement for the World Cup in September, but for those who can’t wait that long there’s always Bred In Heaven: The Road to Twickers (Swansea Grand Theatre, Swansea, Wed 6 May-Sat 9 May, Tickets: £9:50-£15:50), a comedy about a group of Rugby lads at the tournament. If it’s at all like a Welsh rugby game then it’s sure to be an emotional rollercoaster.
Those sick and tired of the election might find it therapeutic to let off a bit of steam at The Prodigy (Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, Fri 8 May, Tickets: £30). Expect classics, expect songs from the band’s new album The Day Is My Enemy, but most of all expect to go mental and lose your head to the act dubbed ‘The Godfathers of Rave.’
If you’re looking for something a bit more alternative, then check out Pinkshinyultrablast (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Wed 6 May. Tickets: £5) The Russian band boast an innovative blend between shoegaze and electronica, and their live show is sure to be a showcase for their lush sounds and primal energy. Be sure to bring some earbuds, this is going to be loud.
Sophie Melville stars in Iphigenia In Splott (Sherman Theatre, Cardiff, Fri 8-Sat 16 May. Tickets: £15, Under 25s: Half Price), a one woman play inspired by the famous Greek myth. Aptly opening the day after the election, the play takes the timeless theme of sacrifice from the original and places them into modern day Splott. Expect a dark, poignant piece of theatre.
Those interested in experimental art should look no further than The Abacus Art Auction and All Day Festival (The Abacus, Cardiff, Sat 9 May, Free). With music from various local artists including Junior Bill and the Scallies, and an auction of abstract art, you should go along if you’re looking to have a cheap drink whilst showing your support for the local art scene.
Unsure if theatre could ever scare you like a film can? Well be sure to check out The Woman in Black (New Theatre, Cardiff, Tue 5-Sat 9 May, Tickets: £8.50-£26). It may not have Daniel Radcliffe in it like the film version, but the long-running stage show is said to be even scarier. If you’ve never found yourself screaming at a play before then The Woman in Black may change that…
Something smells good in Roath this weekend as it hosts the fifth annual Great Roath Bake Off (Wellfield Road, Roath, Cardiff, Sat 9 May). Whether you’re hoping to impress the judges with your own baking or if you’re simply there to satisfy your sweet tooth and sample some live music, this charity event looks to be a tasty affair.
If you’re a comedy fan then we’ve got news for you, Paul Merton (St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Mon 4 May, Tickets: £21) is in Cardiff this week. The comedy veteran is here as part of his Impro Chums collective, and will perform a unique comedy show based entirely on suggestions from the audience.
Cardigan in West Wales hosts Lazy Habits (Fforest Farm, Cardigan, Sat 9 May, Tickets: £10), a seven piece, brass-infused act that blend elements of hip-hop such as scratching and rapping with a live band. The Welsh town may not be known for its rap scene, but this weekend Cardigan may just end up feeling a bit more like Compton.
words CALUM WATSON photo PAUL DUGDALE