Thanks to the council's Shared Prosperity Funding for Arts, Culture, and Heritage projects, Brynmawr Foundation School hosted an electrifying celebration for National Dylan Thomas Day, bringing literature to life for a new generation of young minds. https://www.dylanthomas.com/
Renowned Welsh poet, author, and broadcaster Aneirin Karadog led an inspiring series of workshops, immersing students in the rich poetic traditions of Wales and the timeless magic of Dylan Thomas’ words. From the lyrical rhythm of Under Milk Wood to the raw emotion of Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night, learners explored the power of storytelling and self-expression in ways that ignited their creativity and passion. https://www.aneirinkaradog.cymru/
🔥 Unleashing Creativity Through Rap & Poetry 🔥 Students embraced their inner bard by crafting self-written rap poems, tapping into their rhythm and language skills to showcase their identities through spoken word. Their exceptional talent was undeniable proving that Wales’s ancient poetic traditions still beat strong in the hearts of its youth!
Painting Pictures with Words 🎨 Inspired by Dylan Thomas’ vivid imagery, learners experimented with language, creating mesmerising descriptions like Cosmic Black and Neapolitan Pink. Their words danced on the page, bringing emotions and visions to life with breathtaking creativity.
💥 Channelling Their Rage into Poetry 💥 In an exercise echoing the raw energy of Thomas' rage-filled verses, students penned their own rage poems—expressing everything from social justice issues to everyday frustrations. Whether lamenting the rising price of Greggs food or advocating for change, their poetry was bold, fearless, and deeply personal.
Thanks to the council’s commitment to language and culture, this celebration was more than just an event—it was a spark of inspiration that reminds us of the power of words to shape ideas, express emotions, and create lasting connections.
Dylan Thomas' legacy lives on in these remarkable young minds—the next generation of storytellers, poets, and artists! 🖋
Brynmawr Foundation School Head, Gerard McNamara commented:
“Our pupils had a fantastic time creating raps, new descriptive words and performing the raps too. Pupil confidence was through the roof by the end of the session. It was a pleasure to work with Aneurin; he oozed a love for Welsh literature, and this was contagious by our pupils. The session had a lasting impact on our pupils. Thank you”
“I found the sessions to be very engaging and the pupils (and staff) absolutely loved creating their own raps!” - Vicki Price (Assistant Headteacher)
Here are some comments from the students who thoroughly enjoyed the sessions:
“I felt inspired to go away and write more of my own poetry” - SM
“I feel more confident to express how I feel about something now” - AB
“I thought the poet was really funny and I loved listening to him recite poetry from Dylan Thomas” - NS
“I am very proud of the poem I wrote and that Aneirin thought it was really good” – ON
How ever you chose to express yourself, whether it be a rage poem or just a rap about your local area or interests, give it a go and paint your own pictures with words.
