A brand new festival is coming to Brecon. May Fest at the Shoemakers launches this year, showcasing local performers, local crafts, local ales and fun for all the family.
Hosted by the Shoemaker’s Arms, Pentre-bach, the free two-day festival will take place over the late May Bank Holiday weekend, 25th and 26th May.
The music will range from big bands and male voice choirs, across to indie-pop, folk and blues. Llandovery Male Voice Choir and Brecon Concert Band will get the event going in style - the band kicking off on Saturday, and the choir on Sunday.
Sicknote Steve (Cardiff’s answer to international star Seasick Steve) will perform his raw, energetic blues, with rocky, funky, bluesy bands Anna Davies and the Sinnermen, and Skinny Cat Blues Band, closing the two nights.
Festival organiser and Shoemaker’s publican Ryan Humphrey is aiming to offer something for everyone over the weekend, and the widest mix of music for all tastes.
“It’s the first time we’ve organised anything like this, and we’re keen to make sure the whole community from near and far can enjoy themselves,” says Ryan.
“It’s not just music either. There will be kids crafts and face painting, rolling BBQ, Pimms jugs and plenty of special local beers.”
The line-up of performers came from people contacting the organisers via a post on the Brecon Music Scene Facebook page. The aim was to have a strong focus on musicians from the neighbourhood - but there were surprises.
“When we were contacted by touring American band Telephone Tag, it was a little unexpected,” says Jol Rose, who put up the original Facebook post. “All the way from Buffalo, New York to Pentre-bach, Powys - it could be interesting,” he added.
Another outsider coming to play is Hippy Man, bringing messages of peace and love, and a repertoire of songs from the sixties to sing along with.
Although the festival is free to attend, there will be collection buckets coming round - all proceeds will be shared between St David’s Hospice and performers’ travel expenses.
“We’re a community pub and want to put on an event that brings people together and also supports a good local cause,” said Ryan. “We’re hoping for sunshine - but we’ve got a marquee big enough for the whole beer garden so we’re covered in any case.”
For a full line-up of performers and regular updates, go to the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/events/1339332150089445
