THE Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is calling out to the local talent of Wales to join other dancers, singers and instrumentalists from across the globe in entering its group competitions.

Successful entrants will compete for a range of prestigious titles including dance champions of the world and the jewel in the crown of the festival, which takes place from july 2-7, 2019, choir of the world.

Next year will also see the return of the acapella group, senior children’s choirs, open choirs, and traditional folk dance group.

The International Eisteddfod’s most well-known categories feature choral, ensemble, dance and non-competitive participation.

This year, the festival is appealing for female choirs to come forward and showcase their talent on the Royal International Pavilion stage with the chance to win an international medal and cash prizes of up to £3,000 if they progress to the choir of the world final.

The eisteddfod is embracing change this year with an interim music director, Edward-Rhys Harry, who will be stepping into the role to lead the competitor selection process and oversee the development for 2019.

The festival brings together performers from across the world to sing and dance in a unique combination of competition, performance, and international peace and friendship.

Its globally acclaimed competitions climax with the prestigious choir of the world, which determines the best overall choir.

Entries for all choral, ensemble and dance competitions will close on Friday, November 23, 2018, while solo applications will open in early December.

Applications to follow in the footsteps of non-competitive acts and perform on one of the International Eisteddfod’s outside stages are also open, with the entries also closing on Friday, November 23.

Chairman of the International Eisteddfod, Dr Rhys Davies, said: “Every year, those who take part in the eisteddfod come away with an unforgettable experience that stays with them forever.

“With the unique opportunity for performers from across the globe to compete on an international stage in a variety of 20 competitions, alongside such talented musicians and dancers, whilst making life-long friendships is something truly special.”

For more information on all the competitions or to apply through the eisteddfod participants’ website visit eisteddfodcompetitions.co.uk

For more information about the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod visit www.llangollen.net