BY TERESA DELFINO
MAY 17, 2023
Now over two weeks into May, it feels that spring is in full bloom with summer just around the corner. Warmer sunlit evenings call for beer garden-voyages around the city, with sunny days beckoning new experiences.
From superstars to grassroots smaller acts, Cardiff has a glowing repertoire of musicians taking the stage for the second half of this month. As well as music, May in Wales’ capital gives opportunity to learn new skills from knitting in Canton’s Corp Yard, to creative writing and sound art with workshops in Dyddiau Du and The Moon. From open mic to set bills – if comedy is more your thing, we’ve selected our favourite events the city has to offer. Looking to embrace more knowledge? Events for poetry and film made this month’s list of looch’s favourites. Read below to learn about our favourite pickings from Cardiff this May.
11th -20th May
Cardiff Spring Art & Craft Market – Working Street
Picture it now: the wooden stalls line the Hayes; handmade trinkets, charms, and delicacies perfect for gifts await. The artists and crafts people here keep traditional skills alive with their expertise, so find the time before the week is up to browse their high-quality work if you can.
Wednesday, 17th May
Beyoncé – Principality Stadium:
As a world-renowned artist, Beyoncé needs no introduction. With her Renaissance tour in full swing, she returns to Cardiff after 6 years for a near-sold out stadium show.
Telgate, Grimelda & The Dirty Flamingos – Porters:
If you fancy a night full of vibrant music but for a fraction of the cost (no offence, Beyoncé), look no further than Porters. Organised by Alexandra Jones, each Wednesday you will find Cardiff’s most promising musicians in this space (with free entry, yay!)
Queerdos Presents: Queer Words II – Dyddiau Du/ Capitol Centre:
The open mic slots for this event have now been filled - come along to this evening to hear the prose of a number of poets: Cups of Te, Alex Rollerson, Alisha Raven, Wyll Craig and Saoirse Anton.
Thursday, 18th May
Brainwashed: Sex Camera Power – Chapter Arts Centre:
“A mesmerising visual journey through cinema’s dark heart, to investigate the use of techniques in filmmaking and how these impact the representation of women in society.” This Thursday showing is at 2pm, with tickets available to buy on Chapter’s website.
Cinc – Clwb Ifor Bach:
Pronounced Kink (spelt with a Welsh twist), Cinc is Cardiff’s newbie kinky queer techno club-night that has taken Clwb Ifor Bach by storm. Valuing self-love, inclusivity, and style, Cinc was set up by Ren and Fin to bridge the gap between techno music and a space for queer folk. With sell-out events in February and April, it’s expected that May will follow suit. Expect sexy latex, unapologetic hedonism, and the best queer DJs in the business.
Friday & Saturday, 19th - 20th May
Celebrate This Place Festival – Tramshed & Clwb Ifor Bach:
As Wales’ newest music festival, expect music from Pyschedelic Porn Crumpets, Dream Wife, Los Bitchos, The Bug Club, Cola,Lambrini Girls, and Slate. Brought to us by Clwb Ifor Bach and the Swn Festival team, this line-up is a must for alternative music lovers.
Saturday, 20th May
Transition with Ginny Lemon! – The Queer Emporium
Join The Queer Emporium for an evening of performance by and for the trans, intersex, and non-binary community. Ginny Lemon is the headliner for this event - after the performances, a panel discussion will take place, where performers and local trans legends will answer anonymous questions from the audience.
Sunday, 21st May
Poet Treehouse – Wales Millennium Centre
This event is a space for a community of poets, artists, rappers, writers, and storytellers. Whether you just want to sit and listen, or perform with the open mic, this is an opportunity to experience local talent. This months headliner is Annotate.
Pre-loved Party – Porters
If you enjoy ethical fashion, look no further than Porters’ newest sustainable clothing event. With free entry for buyers, this party promises good music with an opportunity to meet likeminded lovers of green fashion. Get down there from 11am to purchase all the second-hand goodies!
Beginners Knitting Class – Twin Made, Canton Corp Yard Market
These classes are two hours long, teaching the basics and all the take-home knowledge, guide, and skills to carry on making. This event is suitable for absolute beginners – you will leave with the tools (knitting needles and wool, as well as knowledge) to continue your skills from home.
Monday, 22nd May
Speaking With Objects – Dyddiau Du, Capitol Centre
Through the exploration of household objects and viewing them through many different lenses, by the end of this event, you’ll have a creation that combines soundscape and writing. No previous experience is necessary, just pen, paper, and a willingness to create!
Wednesday, 24th May
BBC Comedy Stand-up – Glee Club Cardiff
An evening of stand-up comedy at this iconic venue in the bay. This line-up includes Mel Owen, Freya Parker, Dan Tiernan, Ignacio Lopez, Tadiwa Mahlunge, Tim Renkow and Kiri Pritchard McLean.
Friday-Sunday, 26-28th May
Cardiff Psych & Noise Fest – Venues along Womanby Street
With 30+ acts over the weekend, this festival celebrates psychedelia, noise, experimentalism & weirdness on Womanby Street.
Sunday, 28th May
Alex G – Tramshed
This artist is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who built his reputation with intimate lo-fi pop that combines strong melodic sensibilities with a ragged, impulsive-sounding performance style. As a TikTok sensation, this artist has many memorable tracks with Treehouse and Sarah. Don’t miss out on this show!
Tuesday, 30th May
Creative Writing Workshop – The Moon
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a total beginner trying something new, this group is open to all levels of experience. This event is perfect for creatives looking to learn, discuss, and everything in between.
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