Interview: Rhydian Roberts

Former X-Factor star Rhydian Roberts heads to the Brangwyn Hall this February. He chats to Mark Rees about his first solo tour of Wales, and his special birthday.

When Rhydian Roberts performs in Swansea on February 15, it will have been more than just Valentine's Day that he'll have celebrated the night before.

"It's more than just Valentine's Day," he explains. "It's my 30th birthday. The big 3-0!"

But unfortunately for the former X Factor star, who is currently starring as the title character in Richard O'Brien's Rocky Horror Picture Show, he won't get much of a chance to enjoy the milestone.

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"I'll be heading down from Liverpool ready for the show, so I'll be getting an early night.

"But I've got no qualms about turning 30 – I already feel 30 as it is!" he laughs.

Rhydian first performed at the Brangwyn Hall, a venue he describes as "beautiful", as a 7-year-old boy in a brass band. He has since returned annually for the last two years, performing with the likes of the Morriston Orpheus Choir.

But the upcoming show has particular significance to Rhydian, being the first show on his debut solo tour.

"It's the first time I've toured Wales," he says.

"It's first time I've done my own show. There will be an hour and a half of music, all with a live band."

Rhydian has varied his style over the years to encompass music from the world of opera, pop, and the Welsh language, all of which will be represented in his show. "There will be a good mixture of old and new, but classical crossover is where I'm happiest."

Supporting Rhydian will be the Tenors of Rock, who  perform classical renditions of songs from the likes of AC/DC and The Scorpions. There will also be an appearance from Rhydian's good friend and local singing star Shân Cothi.

Mark Rees