This week, we find out more about Cardiff's Gwdihŵ (the Welsh word for 'owl' and pronounced 'Good-ee-hoo'), renowned for their cosy yet raucous atmosphere, diverse events programme and colourful exterior!
We spoke to Events Manager, Daniel O'Reilly, tells us all about one of Cardiff's best loved live music venues, and how they're planning to celebrate their tenth birthday this month.
Venue details:
- Gwdihŵ, 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff, CF10 2HJ
- Established: 2008
- Capacity: 100
See full listings for Gwdihŵ here >>
Has the venue gone through any major changes since it opened (location, renovation, style of music etc)?
The venue has changed quite a few times internally, and the exterior now has a wonderfully quirky paint job, thanks to Beth and Trin at The Ladderless Window Painting Co.
How many gigs or club nights a week do you host?
On average, six.
Which band that's played your venue has gone on to be the best known?
Catfish and the Bottlemen (who performed live at Gwdihw in 2012).
Titus Andronicus at Gwdihŵ. Photo: Ashlea Bea Photography.
Which band that played your venue deserved/deserves to be better known than they are?
Esuna - Cardiff-based Math Rock, super technical and amazing to watch live!
Do you host events besides gigs and club nights?
Yep! Fundraisers, comedy gigs, quizzes, independent clothing markets, and retro gaming events.
If you could change one thing about the live music industry, what would it be?
Easier access to funding for both venues and artists.
What's been your proudest moment working at your venue?
It's definitely a toss-up between putting on hip hop legends, Ugly Duckling, or Jehst.
What's the best show you've put on recently?
We put on a new band called The Lotus Tribe, formed by local hero Harri Davies. One of my favourite shows ever!
The Lotus Tribe also perform this Saturday (17th Nov) as part of the venue's 10th Birthday celebrations. Tickets are on sale now >>
Anything coming up that you'd like to shout about?
It's our tenth birthday this month (shameless plug incoming!). We're hosting ten days of amazing events, starting November 15th.
Find Gwdihŵ's 10th Birthday bash events here >>
Are there any interesting facts/stories about the venue that people might not know, but should?!
The name of the venue was conceived by Cate Le Bon!
Track Gwdihŵ here to keep up to date with all forthcoming events. You can also catch them on their official website, Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.