Eisteddfod: Katherine Jenkins says arts need support for future

This year will be the 77th International Eisteddfod since the inaugural festival in 1947, created to promote harmony and goodwill after World War Two.

Three thousand competitors are expected, from 30 countries.

Artistic director, Dave Danford, said they had “really gone for it” in terms of bringing so many global artists in, but said the core event is at the heart of it.

“It’s always been important to have a mix between the competitions, the real heritage of the eisteddfod… and also the evening concerts that attract some of the same, and some different audiences,” he said.

“We need to look after those core values, but put on events people want to see as well,” he said.

“Rather than just trying to survive, we want to thrive.”