Billy Elliot – 14th June – 16th July
The hit musical adaption of the 2000 film is touring the UK and performing in the Millennium Centre at Cardiff Bay for a month. The show will transport you back to the 1984 miners strike and tell the story of Billy’s passion for dancing, along with music written by Elton John. Tickets start at £18.50 and work their way up to £65.50.
Retro Fest – 15th June
The pop-up fashion festival is hosted in Gwdihw and includes clothes from local brands and stores. Free admission.
Romeo & Juliet – 16th – 19th June
The famous Shakespeare play is presented by Taking Flight Theatre, and will be performed in Cardiff’s Thompson’s Park. The classic story of two young lovers and the battle between their families is not one to miss but if you do, the production is touring Wales throughout June and July. Tickets can be booked through Chapter Arts Centre and cost £6-£14.
Swansea Jazz Festival Fringe – 17th – 19th June
If you’re a jazz fan, head to Swansea for the weekend and indulge in jazz bands, workshops and late night sessions. With many venues and artists to choose from, the weekend promises to be packed with lots to see and take part in… and it’s free.
Unearthed In a Field – 17th – 19th June
Another weekend event featuring folk and reggae music, along with public speakers, workshops and fire dancers. Prices vary with age but the whole weekend is around £65.
Lansdowne Beer Festival –18th June
This event is packed full of live music and all different kinds of ales and beers. What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon? Free admission.
Cardiff Summer Solstice Terrace Party – 18th June
The over-18s event isn’t your typical summer BBQ party. Hosted at The Depot and having had such success last year, this year promises to be just as big. Tickets: £15 adv.
Cymru Beats 2016 – 18th June- 19th June
This two day convention takes place in the Chapter Arts Centre and involves open mics, live electronic music and late night performances with a film screening of I Dream of Wires.
Pinocchio – 19th June
Gwyn Hall and the Live Ballet Theatre UK present the traditional story of Pinocchio, a wooden puppet who wants to be a real boy, with an original dance adaption. Tickets: £15/£12 adv.
The People’s Platform – 16th June
Following the vigour and passion derived from the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act regarding the welfare of this often less-reported side of their community, the people of Merthyr are warmly inviting us into their community for an evening of stories of hope for the future through theatre and live debate in Penydarren Social Club. Free admission.
words BETHAN GIRDLER-MASLEN