Gwald, Future Wales Festival 

It’s been 21 years since the Government Of Wales Act was passed in 1998. Shortly after, in May 1999, the first elections were held for the Welsh Assembly. Despite the initial referendum for a devolved Welsh government winning by only 0.3%, it’s safe to say that general thinking has evolved in Wales to consider the Assembly as something to be valued.

In order to properly celebrate the 20 years since the historic first gathering of the Assembly in the Senedd, they’ve created a Festival, entitled the Future Wales Festival. Gathering some of the best things happening in Wales at the moment, it includes talks and panel discussions, as well as art exhibitions, music and comedy.

There’s a lot to get out of the festival, and all the events are free for anyone to go along to. One of the biggest events is the exhibition Many Voices, One Nation, curated by Ffotogallery and the National Assembly, which will tour various locations in Wales after the festival. Using lens-based photography, the instillation focuses on the hope for the future of Wales. Other invents include an hour talk with singer Charlotte Church on Sat 28 Sept, where she speaks about her growing up in Wales, as well as the artistic culture in the nation.

There will also be a filming of the BBC television show Question Time on Thurs 26 Sept, with this marking the first ever appearance of the programme in the Senedd. That said, if too much politics has been bringing you down lately, don’t worry, as on Fri 27 the same storied building hosts a selection of Welsh comedians, promoted by Little Wander of Machynlleth Comedy Festival renown. With the likes of Tudur Owen AND Matt Rees making an appearance, you might forget your political woes altogether. If you’re still not convinced, those events are only the tip of the iceberg, so be sure to check it out.

words Seren McKeever

Senedd / Pierhead, Cardiff Bay, Wed 25-Sun 29 Sept. Tickets: free. Info: www.devolution20.wales