The first step in ACW?s drive to rejuvenate Welsh language theatre have been taken with the announcement that two companies, Sgript Cymru and Theatr Gwynedd, will receive funding for the production of two main-stage Welsh language productions which will tour across Wales during 2003.
Sgript Cymru will produce a stage version of Amdani, a play with music and songs derived from Bethan Gwanas? acclaimed novel and television series, based on the story of a women?s rugby team. The designated director is Clwyd Theatr Cymru?s Associate Director, Tim Baker. Theatr Gwynedd will produce a main-stage production of Dan-y- Wenallt, based on Dylan Thomas? Under Milk Wood. These two productions are an interim measure while the Arts Council of Wales establishes a Welsh Language Theatre Company, Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru. This will be an independent producing company with its own artistic leader, which will plan a programme that includes standard literary repertoire as well as new work. ACW has earmarked £50,000 to establish the new company and the steering committee is already in place. In the meanwhile, ACW has earmarked £200,000 for the creation the two new productions.