As part of Bangor’s milestone 1500th anniversary celebrations, BLAS, Pontio’s flagship youth arts participation programme, will present a vibrant and dynamic street performance called ‘Y Rali’, which will weave through the heart of the city on Saturday, 12 July 2025.
The event begins at 1pm at the Clock Tower on Bangor High Street, where audiences will gather before joining a colourful procession leading to the Pontio Arts Centre, culminating in a live music finale at 2 pm.
Featuring the creative talents of the BLAS Hŷn and BLAS Bach groups, this performance celebrates the city of Bangor, the Welsh language, and the area’s rich cultural heritage. The promenade-style event promises theatrical moments, community spirit, and immersive storytelling as it brings the high street to life.
The celebration concludes with a special musical performance by Hedydd Ioan at Pontio’s plaza, adding a fitting artistic flourish to the occasion.
Delivered in collaboration with Menter Iaith Bangor and supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, the event is free and open to all.
Manon Gwynant, BLAS Director said: ‘The BLAS cast have been in their element in creating a brand-new show together and have set out to put their unique stamp on it in every way. It is full of colour and pride, and is very much a celebration of what the Welsh language and Bangor mean to them today’.
Mared Huws from Pontio Bangor said “BLAS is full of talented, dedicated, and genuinely likeable young people. I’m incredibly proud of their creativity and the outstanding work that they produce”.
Meirion Owen from Menter Iaith Bangor added: “This is a powerful opportunity to celebrate our recent history — the Welsh language and culture brought to life through passionate, memorable music that sparked real change in Bangor and across Wales.”
Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, added: “Y RALI is a wonderful reflection of Bangor’s energy, creativity, and deep-rooted sense of community.
“As we celebrate 1500 years of history, it’s inspiring to see young people leading the way, honouring our heritage while shaping the future of our city. This is exactly the spirit we hoped to capture in our anniversary year.”
BLAS Pontio’s performance ‘Y Rali’ is set to be a standout highlight in Bangor’s anniversary calendar – a joyful and heartfelt tribute to the city’s past, present, and future.
Picture shows the crew from the BLAS Hyn group.
