Articulation Director Angela Adams-Gray shares her key takeaways from Green Man Festival, exploring its four-nation outdoor arts collaborations, commitment to Welsh language and culture, and eco-conscious independence.
Cyfarchion un ac oll!/ Greetings one and all!
I’ve just returned from Wales and the brilliant Green Man Festival , a tad tired but truly inspired. Set in the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog (formerly known as the Brecon Beacons) in the land of the Red Dragon, Green Man is a festival with something for everyone- including an option for attendees to arrive days early to camp and experience local Welsh culture before the main gates open. The Green Man programming is inquisitive, eclectic, and sonically and culturally diverse – incorporating music, science , literature, film , comedy , and a whole range of live performance . Headline acts included a good representation of Scottish talent, Glasgow legends Mogwai and the Beta Band as well as the surprise guest of virtuoso guitarist Anna Calvi, singer-songwriter Jacob Alon – recent recipient of the BBC Introducing Artist of the Year award.
Green Man Rising is part of their comprehensive music development programme – offering a prestigious performance opportunity on the Rising Stage, industry mentoring and a professional recording session . The Green Man Global International Exchange Programme includes the Four Nations Outdoor Arts Bursary programme led by Surge, and supported by Articulation, BDFestival (Bradford), and Spraoi and ISACS ( Ireland), showcasing newly developed street theatre and outdoor works by emerging artists from Scotland, England, Wales, and Ireland, encouraging ambitious cross-border collaborations.
Welsh language takes centre stage at Green Man too , featuring prominently on all signage, festival communications, a Welsh phrasebook is included in the programme and Welsh language lessons are also available. The Welsh Government has a long-term ambition for a thriving Welsh language with a million people able to speak Welsh by 2050. Part of these ambitions include strategic policy decisions – including the Welsh Language and Education Act 2025 – stipulating that Public sector services must be provided bilingually. Scots and Gaelic lack the mainstream visibility that Welsh benefits from, and Scotland could learn a lot from Green Man Festival, and the bold Welsh approaches that have been integral to reviving their indigenous language .
It is clear that Green Man takes its commitment to reduce its environmental impact extremely seriously. They have just been rated Highly Commended by A Greener Future and their environmental commitments span everything from power, waste, food, travel and community. The smell of smoke and charred peat were stark reminders of the 20 wildfires that raged through south and west Wales recently, with drought conditions affecting many parts of the country. The effigy of the titular Green Man is traditionally burned as part of the culmination of the festival. However, due to the dangerously dry conditions in the region – as evidenced by the parched, bleached grass everywhere – this celebratory bonfire was cancelled.
The Green Man is unique as one of the last remaining fully independent music and arts festivals in the UK. This protects its artistic freedom and ethical integrity. Remaining free from corporate sponsorship means it can support local businesses – including independently brewed beers and ciders from breweries and orchards across Wales. Festival Director Fiona Stewart is visionary in her community-led approach, aiming to be a force for good in the local community which adds to the unique atmospher. The Green Man Trust was founded on a mission to celebrate community, fairness and the planet. Operating year-round, the Green Man Trust offers wide-ranging support; community grants, training and jobs for young people, refugees and asylum seekers, championing emerging talent and inspiring collective action to tackle the climate crisis together.
The sponsorship-free, socially conscious Green Man Festival is a symbol of resilience. Its diverse programming, commitment to inclusivity, stellar environmental credentials – all while being truly rooted in the local community – will ensure an enduring appeal.
Green Man’s motto says it all,
“…yn y Dyn Gwyrdd, mae caredigrwydd yn fath o weithredu. /…at Green Man , kindness is a form of activism.”
Thanks Team Green Man – looking forward to next year!
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