Michael Sheen is embarking on his most daring role yet, but it's not on the silver screen. He's taking on the challenge of saving Wales's national theatre, and it's a story that will leave you captivated and inspired.
The Urgency of Saving a National Treasure
Michael Sheen, the renowned actor, has a profound connection with Thornton Wilder's 'Our Town', a Pulitzer-winning play that hasn't missed a day of performance since 1938. Sheen, starring in the upcoming touring production, shares his sentiment: "Every time I read it, I'm awakened, with an urgent sense of 'I can't waste this.'" But here's where it gets controversial—Sheen isn't just acting in the play; he's using it as a catalyst for something much bigger.
A Bold Move to Revive Welsh Theatre
The new production isn't just a play; it's the birth of the Welsh National Theatre, a company formed and financed by Sheen himself. This ambitious venture is a response to the collapse of the former National Theatre Wales, and it's a statement of intent in the face of cuts and closures affecting many Welsh theatres. With a recent report revealing that Wales spends less on culture than almost every other European nation, the devaluing of the arts is a pressing issue.
A Vision for Welsh Talent and the Arts
Sheen's vision is to create a company that blends community focus with global ambition. He wants to attract and build an audience, using that as a catalyst to address infrastructural issues and provide opportunities for Welsh talent. This includes directors and playwrights, who often face limitations due to practicalities.
A Star-Studded Opening Season
The opening season features 'Our Town' and a new play, 'Owain & Henry', by Gary Owen. The latter stars Sheen as Owain Glyndŵr, a 15th-century Welsh separatist. Another highlight is 'Playing Burton', a tribute to Richard Burton, led by Matthew Rhys. This season is about rediscovering Welsh plays and adapting world drama for Wales.
A Director's Dream Come True
Sheen's desire to give a larger platform to the director, Francesca Goodridge, is a key part of the story. Goodridge, also the artistic director of Cardiff's Sherman theatre, faces challenges in Wales, where Welsh directors often work in studio spaces, limiting the scope of stories told. Goodridge's work, described as 'terrific' by Sheen, showcases her theatrical prowess, and their collaboration is a testament to Sheen's belief in her talent.
Transposing a Classic to Wales
Transposing Wilder's fictional Grover's Corners to Wales was a natural fit for Goodridge. The community in the play felt like home to her, and she wanted to showcase the ordinary moments that build an extraordinary life. This connection to the community is a central theme, and it's what makes the play resonate with audiences.
A Play with a Powerful Message
'Our Town' can be misread as twee, but it's a play with a powerful message. Wilder uses small-town life to tell a story of resilience and the rise of fascism, a warning that resonates across time. When a core character dies, it's not about tragedy but about celebrating life and asking how they lived.
Rising from the Ashes
As National Theatre Wales crumbled due to funding cuts, Sheen felt an emergency situation. He knew the struggle to establish a national theatre in Wales and saw a window of opportunity. Despite no public money available, Sheen took the reins, using his influence and resources to get the ball rolling.
A Community-Driven Vision
Sheen's commitment to the project is driven by his understanding of community. As he says, we all need help at some point, and that's what community is about. This belief forms the foundation of his wider philanthropic endeavors, including his recent £100,000 donation to pay off £1m of debt for people in south Wales.
A Collaborative Effort for Success
The opening show is a co-production with the Rose theatre in London, a strategy inspired by the success of 'Nye', co-produced by the National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre. Co-producing is essential in today's financial climate, allowing for greater ambition and collaboration. Scale is important, and Welsh National Theatre has big stories to tell.
Bringing Theatre to the Community
Before reaching London, 'Our Town' will open in Swansea, where Goodridge grew up. This is significant as it brings the theatre to the community, allowing locals to see rehearsals and local actors in action. It's about building talent, belief, and possibility, creating a community and ambition for future generations.
A Play for the Ages
'Our Town' is a captivating tale, a collaboration between the Rose theatre and Welsh National Theatre. It's a story of community, resilience, and the power of theatre to bring people together. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about saving a theatre; it's about preserving a nation's cultural heritage and fostering a sense of community that will endure for generations to come.
What do you think about Michael Sheen's bold move? Is it a necessary step to save Welsh theatre, or is it a risky venture? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
