The Search for a New Bard continues ...
The Bardic Council of Ynyswitrin would like to announce the result of this year's search to find the new 'Bard of Ynyswitrin'. The new Bard was ceremonially chaired during the Open Gorsedd on St Dunstan's Day, May 19th 2008. The Chair was contested by open competition, as it is annually, each contestant performing for up to 15 minutes on a given theme, chosen by the outgoing Bard.
This year's Open Gorsedd was a great success, attracting many outstanding performers and entertainers as well as visiting Bards and Druids from other orders. Next year's event is expected to attract even more contenders and participants.
The Spirit of Trees
This year the chair was contested by several local poets, storytellers and musicians, with opening heats at Glastonbury Assembly Rooms. Entries were based on the theme - "The Spirit of Trees". After a long and difficult discussion, the judges chose to chair Ash Shannon as the new Bard of Ynyswitrin and David Reakes in the position of Deputy.
Next year, all Bards resident in Glastonbury or its immediate surroundings will be given the chance to compete for the chair again; only one will be chosen as the next Chaired Bard of Ynyswitrin. Those not wishing to contest the Chair, but who would like to provide entertainment, should also contact the Gorsedd Committee.
Performers who wish to enter the contest for the Bardic Chair of Ynyswitrin next year can complete the entry form here or pick up a printed version from the Library of Avalon, Glastonbury High Street, Somerset. This year's Open Gorsedd is being organised by the Gorsedd Committee of the Bardic Council of Ynyswitrin - http://bardic.org.
