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 31/10/2005
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but sad goodbyes to Celtica
A record procession of 400 people processed along Heol Maengwyn and past Machynlleth's famous clock
tower to the Plas on Saturday night, lighting up the streets with a stunning array of lanterns and
bringing much needed cash into the town.
200 lantern-bearing children, together with 200 adult participants and performers, all directed
by 50 voluntary safety marshalls, set off in a street-filling lantern spectacle based on the theme
of Time. [Click on the pictures for a larger version.]
Artistic directors chose the theme of Time not only for the significance of the passage of time
and the change of the seasons within the mythology of the Celtic Samhain celebration, but also to
promote the Town Clock Appeal.
Organisers wished to support the appeal as the town clock urgently needs restoration.
However, while profit from the event had been earmarked for the appeal, event finances are still
short of breaking even - although donations are still coming in.
The event was funded by the Welsh Development Agency and Powys County Council as well as by local
businesses and included 10 lantern-making sessions held at Celtica during the week running up to the
event.
Once in the Plas grounds, the crowd enjoyed a choreographed display of fire twirling given by local
talented teenagers and a magnificent fireworks display by Lightworks FX of Meifod.
Event organisers ecodyfi expressed their thanks to everybody who supported the event, including
Celtica and their staff, Mach Fringe, Equilibre, Kelvin Jenkins Jewellers, Machynlleth Carnival Committee,
Machynlleth Town Council, I. G. Owen's and Hennighan's Top Shop, Roustabout, Rob Hewitt-Smith, Alan
Davies, Byrne Scaffolding, Major & Evans, White Lion, Red Lion, Wynnstay Hotel and Blasau Delicatessen.
 Ecodyfi
especially wanted to recognise the contribution made by the artists, workers and volunteer marshalls.
"They were all absolutely fantastic - we couldn't have asked for more!" said Teresa Walters.
"We'd also like to note how much Celtica will be missed if nobody takes it over - and hope that
everyone now recognises the significance of their involvement in community and cultural events in
the area."
Teresa added that approximately 500 of the 2000 audience were visitors staying overnight in the
area.
"Research carried out on the street during the evening demonstrates that the event gives an excellent
boost to the local economy," she said.
Samhain
Samhain is the ancient Celtic mid winter celebration looking forward to the return of lighter days.
Marking the end of the Celtic year, it is a time of uncertainty and change.
Samhain, or the 'last harvest,' as it was sometimes known, marks the beginning of the winter and
the start of a new year.
It is also a mysterious time where the "veil" between the material world and the spirit world is
at its thinnest.
On this day, according to an ancient Celtic belief, one should reflect on the negatives in one's
life and resolve to improve them.
It is also a time for families, to celebrate the lives of loved ones and toast the memories of those
past.
Further information:
Teresa Walters, ecodyfi 01654 703965
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