Dragons raise the roof at Dubai Sevens
A super-choir from the S4C series Codi Canu went to entertain the crowds at the Dubai Sevens Rugby tournament – and in this week’s programme (Saturday, 16 February, repeated Sunday, 17 February, with on-screen English subtitles), cameras follow the choir to the Middle East.
A total of 48 singers were chosen from the four regional rugby supporters’ choirs set up by the series, with 12 members of each choir impressing the world-famous conductor and musical director, Owain Arwel Hughes
He visited each of the choirs – Blues, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons - to listen to the singers perform the four parts – soprano, alto, tenor and bass – before choosing the twelve to sing in the Dubai choir.
“The Dubai Sevens is one of the main social events of the year in the Middle East. Having a Welsh choir sing out there was something completely new,” Owain explains.
Dragons choir member Rhian Barrell was selected for the trip. She said:
“To be selected as one of the super-choir was one of the most exciting things that have happened to me. It was a wonderful time with all the different choir members gelling really well.
“I was extremely grateful to the Dragons for giving me the opportunity to travel and have such fun,” Rhian added.
The prize at the end of the current series of Codi Canu – which also sees a fifth choir of north Wales rugby supporters taking part – is to perform the national anthems at the Six Nations’ match between Wales and France in the Millennium Stadium on Saturday, 15 March.
Codi Canu is broadcast on Saturday, 16 February 9.45pm on S4C and repeated Sunday, 17 February, with on-screen English subtitles,7.30pm
