A Penarth performer has been named Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod’s International Voice of Musical Theatre for 2019.

Jodi Bird, aged 21, wowed audiences and adjudicators with her performances of Woman, originally sung by Stephanie J Block, Tell me on a Sunday by Marti Webb and 14g, a stand alone written by Janine Tesori but made famous by Kristin Chenoweth on the stage of the Royal International Pavilion in the competition’s final on Thursday 4^th July.

As winner of the coveted title they will receive an international Medal, £1,500 prize money and the opportunity to perform at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod in Australia in October 2019. The all-expenses paid trip is funded by the Gold Coast Eisteddfod.

Jodi fought off tough competition in the preliminary rounds of the competition, which took place in Llangollen Methodist Church on Wednesday 3^rd July, landing a place in the final alongside Sadie-Beth Holder from United Kingdom and Sophie Clarke of United Kingdom.

Adjudicators Sarah Wigley and Ken Burton placed Sadie-Beth Holder in second for her rendition of “Your Daddy’s Son” by Stephen Flaherty, while Sophie Clarke came third, with her wonderful performance.

Sarah Wigley said: “Jodi provided an absolutely captivating and enthralling performance which showcased their ability to communicate with the audience, their passion for being on stage as well as female national vocal ability and range.”

Winner Jodi Bird said: “I’m honoured to receive this prestigious award and couldn’t be happier to have won. Performing on the International Pavilion stage has been an overwhelming experience and I’m really excited to represent Wales at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod.

The Gold Coast Eisteddfod features over 70,000 singers and dancers, 330 bands and orchestras, 175 choirs, almost 1,500 dance groups and over 3,000 solo dancers.

Judith Ferber, the Gold Coast Eisteddfod’s General Manager, said: Judith Ferber, the Gold Coast Eisteddfod’s General Manager, said: “We’re proud and privileged to help celebrate the very best international musical talent with Llangollen festival. Huge congratulations to Jodi on her fantastic performance at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod. We can’t wait to welcome her and look forward to their performance in the Musicale. ”

Music Director of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, Edward-Rhys Harry, added: “Jodi Bird gave a beautiful and strong performance for the audience and adjudicators during this year’s competition. We would like to congratulate her on being named the International Voice of Musical Theatre 2019.

“Achieving this huge accolade and having the opportunity to perform at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod enables, inspires and launches exciting, international musical careers. We’ re proud to be able to showcase such inspiring talent.”

For more information about the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod visit www.llangollen.net and for more information about The Gold Coast Eisteddfod visit www.goldcoasteisteddfod.com.au/