Applications for the 2024 Abigail’s Arts Award are now open – and this year organisers at Theatr Gwaun in Fishguard have something very special planned!
For the first time, shortlisted applicants will get to showcase their talents on stage in front of a live audience!
It’s hoped that the community will get behind the young artists and performers and enjoy an exciting new show focusing on local talent. For those whose work is not a stage performance, there will be space to exhibit their work in the foyer and café/bar area.
The award, which launched in 2022, is aimed at 16 to 25 year olds in Pembrokeshire who need help pursuing their dreams of working in the creative or performing arts. Two bursaries of £500 each are available, and young people across the county are being encouraged to apply.
Whether their passion is singing or playing an instrument, dancing, photography or painting, if it involves the arts, they’re eligible.
The award trustees hope that this year, with the promise of a chance to appear on a big stage, they will see an even bigger influx of applications from talented young people across Pembrokeshire.
The showcase event will take place in May 2024, and may also include performances by previous winners.
Last year the awards went to three talented teenagers in Pembrokeshire: drummer Dylan Swales from Johnston, singer-songwriter Tomos Newman from Martletwy, and young actor Storm Rose Knapp-Fisher from Llanwnda.
The award is named for Abigail Goswell who loved life, loved music and the arts, but who sadly passed away in 2020 from breast cancer. The bursary is funded by the Goswell family of Fishguard, to honour her memory.
Jenny and Richard Goswell said “We wanted to create a legacy for Abigail that would reflect her passion for music and cinema and give youngsters a step on the way to realising their own dreams. Now in its third year, the award scheme is gathering momentum and this year we plan to create a live show to allow the short-listed candidates to perform to the judges.”
Theatr Gwaun Community Trust Chair Patrick Thomas, Chair said: “We at Theatr Gwaun are delighted to be hosting this inspiring event, and I would encourage all budding artists and performers to consider applying.”
Applications opened on January 1 and will close on March 31. You can apply via www.theatrgwaun.com/abigails-arts-award/ .
