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BITSH! - John Ogwen’s adaptation of the novel by Eirug Wyn
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A year or more has passed since the Company made an application for funding to develop a new audience for Welsh language theatre and to venture touring with a main stage production. The application was successful, and subsequently the Company will be touring ‘Bitsh!’ – John Ogwen’s adaptation of the challenging novel by Eirug Wyn in a national tour around Wales’ theatres between the 10th and 27th of October 2006.
This isn’t the first time that the company has ventured to perform on the main stage. Back in 2004, the company toured ‘Stags and Hens’, Bethan Gwanas’ translation of ‘Stags and Hens’ by Willy Russell to North Wales venues. The sell out tour spurred the company to build on that success with this production. ‘Bitsh!’ signifies a great milestone in the history of the company as we tour nationally for the very first time.
Our objective in touring ‘Bitsh!’ is to react to the Welsh language theatre’s present needs, which is the great need for attracting a new audience. We strongly believe that ‘Bitsh!’ offers an unmissable opportunity to appeal to an audience of a wide range – old and new alike. ‘Bitsh!’ offers the unique chance to stage a masterful adaptation of the highest standard of literature - significantly the very first stage adaptation of Eirug Wyn’s literary work ever.
This is a powerful and poignant drama on the one hand but also full of the wry humour that Eirug Wyn was renowned for as an author. The title in itself is quite thought provoking!!
Through Abi’s memories we are guided on a journey through this turbulent decade and taste on the one hand the radical freedom of the age and on the other, the narrow minded expectations of a close knit Welsh quarrying community. Intertwined with the legendary melodies that defined the era – the Stones, Beatles and Bob Dylan - are the perpetual themes of mankind. Life and Death. The Individual and the Nation. Freedom and Captivity. Love and Hate. As Abi relives his coming of age, these songs offer a welcome solace as he seeks the answers that are necessary for understanding his past.
Eirug Wyn was an author who possessed the innate creativity needed to shape and mould his subject matter into fine literary creations while also pleasing his readers. This is reflected in his distinguished contribution to the literature of Wales over the years. Since 1992 he has published 15 books including Y Dyn yn y Cefn Heb Fwstash (2004), Powdwr Rhech (2001) a Tri Mochyn Bach (2000). His wit,humour and ability to empathise with his characters ensured he placed a unique stamp on his work. Without a doubt, his sad and untimely death in April 2004 was an immeasurable loss to the nation.
In the same way, John Ogwen is also a very well loved and greatly respected artist on television, stage and radio. His masterful stage adaptation of the novel ‘Bitsh!’ is proof of his understanding of the stage’s requirements but also a worthy acknowledgement of the novel as an incredibly rich basis for a powerful production.
Please note: The production is unsuitable for young children under 14 years old.
Cast: Catrin Fychan
Rhian Blythe
Maldwyn John
Eilir Jones
Jonathan Nefydd
Carwyn Jones
Mari Wyn
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Cwmni'r Fran Wen
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Friday, September 29, 2006 |
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