THE cream of the region’s outdoor performers have been showcasing their talents in Wrexham.
The loud tones of town crier Martin Wood, who stands over 7ft 4ins tall and wears size 16 shoes, sounded out across Hope Street and then Eagles Meadow to mark the start of Wrexham’s first ever street entertainment festival on Thursday.
Over the following three days shoppers were treated to a feast of entertainment ranging from magicians and jugglers to singers and dancers in the event, which was part of Wrexham’s Year of Culture programme.
One of the first acts to appear was young flautist Antonia Sully from Wrexham who gave a well-received musical recital in Hope Street.
Over at Eagles Meadow, passers-by were thrilled to hear a live gig by Ellesmere Port duo, Out By Sunday.
Circus entertainer Chris Morrison kicked off Friday’s packed programme by giving a stunning performance of his skills in Regent Street, outside the former Woolworths store.
The focus was then back on Eagles Meadow where Wrexham singer/songwriter Natasha Morris made a warmly-received appearance.
In Queens Square it was the turn of juggler and dancer Heather Evans to wow crowds while across in Lord Street the Dragonettes dance group from Wrexham went through their stylish paces.
The action resumed on Saturday with a performance by Wrexham singer/songwriter Stephen Shelley in Lord Street, and the fun continued a with an awesome demonstration by hoola-hoop artiste Suzi in Queens Square.
Lunchtime in Eagles Meadow was an all-action affair, with performances by rapper Anthony Bozzola, the Vagabondi puppets and singers from Wrexham’s Bitesize theatre group.
South Wales-based carnival arts group Magick Wales, who specialise in stunning elusions, paraded from the museum to the town centre to give two performances in Llwyn Isaf during the afternoon.
The public were able to vote for their favourite entertainer and the winning performer will appear at the Wrexham Christmas lights switch-on later this year and Llangollen International Eisteddfod next summer.
Alongside this street entertainment festival a best dressed window competition is being held for town centre shops.
Entrants have based their displays on the theme of ‘culture’ and have been supplied with Wrexham Year of Culture comedy/tragedy masks to incorporate into their arrangement.