1/8/2008

The culture and traditions of Wales will be celebrated at the
at the Lorient Interceltic Festival 2008 in Brittany, France. Welsh art, music and dance will step onto the world stage which celebrates the "Year of Wales" . The event runs from 1st to 10th August.
Finance Minister Andrew Davies who will represent Wales at the official opening Gala event said: "This is our moment to demonstrate how our rich cultural heritage continues to inspire and draw the attention of the world to Wales. It is also a valuable opportunity to showcase Wales’s rich tourism and to promote some of the wonderful and unique products that are helping to take this nation’s name and reputation across the globe. But it’s not just about promotion.
At Lorient we stand alongside the other Celtic nations, share experience, learning and insight into how best to help our cultures and nations to continue to flourish in this increasingly cosmopolitan world."
The Welsh pavilion will be the focus of Welsh activity during the celebrations. Visitors will be able to find out about Wales, try Welsh food and drink. They will also have the opportunity to experience live music from Wales, with highlights from the National Eisteddfod broadcast on screen.
Wales Arts International, which is partly funded by the Welsh Assembly Government via the Wales Arts Council, is leading the event.