Storytelling, music and folk arts events in Gwynedd, Ynys Môn and beyond. Anadlu is organised by Claire Mace, a storyteller, singer and herbalist born in Scotland, now based in Bethesda, Dyffryn Ogwen, in the heart of Eryri.
Claire tells stories in both Welsh and English, drawing on the rich mythology and folklore of Wales, from the ancient tales of the Mabinogi to the lives of the saints.
She weaves botanical knowledge and herbal wisdom into the fabric of each story, bringing the plants of this landscape alive as living characters in the narrative.
Audiences are carried by the stories into another world and then returned to the present with a deeper connection to nature.
Her performances blend spoken word with song, creating an atmosphere that listeners describe as ancient, ritualistic and deeply relaxing.
Whether she is telling the tale of Olwen in a village hall or singing a murder ballad, Claire’s style is warm, unhurried and grounded, drawing her audience gently into the story.
She is the founder of Perlysieuwyr Pesda, a bilingual community group dedicated to Welsh herbal heritage, and leads workshops exploring the connections between storytelling, herbalism, and traditional skills. She is also the Projects Director at The House of the West Wind: College of Storytelling.
Her wider background spans software engineering, television production and theatre management, and she holds degrees from the Universities of York and Leeds. She is also an experienced yoga teacher and runs classes from her base in Bethesda and online.
What people say:
“The integration of the herbs within the mythic brings the ancient to the present moment, weaving ancient and modern together.”
“A beautiful tale told with warmth, poise and passion. In awe at your ability to weave so many threads with such lightness, depth and grace.”
“Claire’s captivating storytelling seamlessly weaves in her botanical knowledge, bringing the plants to life in intriguing ways.”
“So lovely to hear stories retold through the eyes of women and the wisdom of plants. Go and see!”