BUTTERFLY, acclaimed Welsh playwright Ian Rowlands’ first work for five years, will be making its debut performance at The Riverfront, Newport’s premier theatre and arts centre, on St David’s Day (Wednesday 1 March) and playing there Saturday 4 March, before continuing its Welsh tour.This pitch black comedy is an exciting collaboration between leading Welsh artists and produced by Theatr Y Byd, a company dedicated to new writing in Wales. Ian Rowlands’ script is complemented by original music from Amy Wadge, twice winner of best female solo act at the Welsh music awards, who has composed and recorded a soundtrack of songs inspired by the lead character. Top Swansea installation artist and Artes Mundi 2004 finalist, Tim Davies, has joined forces for a second time with Ian Rowlands to provide a dramatic installation for the story to unfold in. Nicolas Young, Theatre and Arts Director at The Riverfront, says, “We’re proud to bring such a feast of Welsh creativity to the Riverfront, and can’t think of a better way to celebrate St David’s Day than with this play, which showcases a plethora of Welsh talent.” BUTTERFLY is a play about art and life, and their appropriation by the unscrupulous. Featuring a cast of three, the play introduces an established art critic and collector who is no longer moved by beauty. Desperate to regain his feeling, he has become a vampire who sucks the souls of young artists from their canvasses, destroying them out of spite. When he is picked up by a young man at a gallery opening, a story of seduction and revenge unfolds. Amy Wadge, described by the London Evening Standard as “the new Joni Mitchell” is thrilled to have had the chance to add her own creative twist to this dynamic production. She explains, “Everything about this piece of music was inspired by interpretation of the lead female character. I loved the script. I couldn’t put it down. It was incredibly evocative. I love Ian’s work. I’ve always loved the way he writes; it’s so lyrical. It was a wonderful experience to write a piece of music inspired by his work.” Ian Saynor plays the Art Critic, Alison John is Butterfly, and Sam Miller plays the Boy. Saynor has worked extensively in TV, film and theatre with roles in POBOL Y CWM, BOY SOLDIER and JILTING JOE. Alison John is best known for her role in SPEAKEASY, and Sam Miller most recently appeared in ORANGELOVE. This production of BUTTERFLY is in association with The Riverfront, and is funded by the Arts Council of Wales. Tickets for Butterfly start from £7.50 and can be purchased by calling The Riverfront Box Office on 01633 656757 |
| The Riverfront Newport web site: www.newport.gov.uk/riverfront |
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Monday, February 20, 2006 |
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