Michael Sheen's new Welsh National Theatre to be based in Swansea

Michael Sheen's new Welsh National Theatre to be based in Swansea

Hollywood actor Michael Sheen is embarking on a new venture by establishing a theatre company, Welsh National Theatre, in the city where his theatrical journey began. The company will be headquartered overlooking Swansea Bay in the city’s civic centre. Sheen made this decision after the closure of National Theatre Wales due to significant cuts in core funding from Arts Council Wales.

While Welsh National Theatre seeks both private and public funding, Sheen will initially self-finance the company to ensure its sustainability. Expressing his enthusiasm, Sheen stated that he is excited about establishing the company in a city known for its creativity and resilience. He mentioned that starting the theatre company in Swansea, where he began his journey in the West Glamorgan Youth Theatre, feels like coming full circle.

The new theatre company’s inaugural production, Our Town, will premiere at Swansea Grand Theatre in January, followed by a tour across Wales. Sheen will also be part of the January production and a co-production with Wales Millennium Centre later in the year. Swansea council has endorsed the project, foreseeing job opportunities and increased visitor attraction. This initiative is expected to invigorate the performance sector by engaging various professionals, from actors to designers, in a world-class endeavor rooted in Swansea and Wales.

Sharon Gilburd, the founding chief executive of Welsh National Theatre, emphasized the company’s contribution to Swansea’s flourishing cultural scene and its potential to strengthen the local arts community. Collaborators and local supporters believe that the establishment of Welsh National Theatre in Swansea will revitalize the city’s theatre landscape and inspire a new generation of talent. The infusion of arts and culture in Swansea is anticipated to be a significant boost, attracting diverse audiences and nurturing creativity and innovation

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