At the Vibrant Culture Committee meeting on July 6, the head of community services and facilities presented a report on the matter.
The report sought members’ views on how the council might support events marking the occasion, including whether the council should partner with the organisers of a Grace Williams Festival and/or organise their own event.
Councillor N Hodges commented on the limited information available about Grace Williams’ life and the uncertainty regarding her burial location.
Councillor S Hodges noted that a book had been published about her life, but copies were difficult to obtain.
The chair expressed the view that it would be preferable for the council to work in partnership with Dr Hicks and other organisers, rather than developing a separate programme of events.
Councillor S Hodges asked how the council might be able to assist with the festival.
The head of community services and facilities advised that Dr Hicks had not yet specified what support may be required. Officers would be able to arrange discussions with organisers to establish how the council could assist, should the members wish to pursue a partnership.
Councillor Perkes suggested that performances of Grace Williams’ compositions may form part of the commemorative programme.
Councillor Iannucci-Williams expressed support for the council becoming involved and suggested that the council chamber could be offered as a venue, as it had been done previously for community events and activities.
The chair agreed that officers should explore partnership opportunities with Dr Hicks and the festival organisers.
Councillor N Hodges noted that Grace Williams had been featured during the 1968 National Eisteddfod and suggested that further information may be available through related archives.
