Al fresco family fun – dramatic castles to host family open air theatre

Six ancient and magnificent buildings in Wales, which are all under the care of Cadw, will turn into atmospheric outdoor theatres this summer, offering a satirical comedy for the whole family about one of our country’s prominent historical characters. So plan your visit, pack your picnic (and your own chair) and settle down for an evening of entertainment!

Yr AYr Arglwydd Rhys – Y Cyrn yn erbyn y byd – A Oes Medd? is a brand new touring play by Mewn Cymeriad theatre company, about one of the Deheubarth’s heroes – Rhys ap Gruffydd. There will be tales of family loyalty and tensions, the loss and gain of lands and poetry that no-one will understand in this hilarious family drama! Here is an opportunity, whilst having a lot of fun, to learn more about Lord Rhys.

The tour will start during the week of the National Eisteddfod on Wednesday 3 August at 6.30pm, at Ystrad Fflur Abbey near Pontrhydfendigaid, which is a stone’s throw from the Eisteddfod field in Tregaron. A great opportunity for families visiting the festival to learn more about Rhys ap Gruffydd and a piece of Welsh history whilst having fun – all in a wonderfully atmospheric setting.

Rhys ap Gruffydd, or Lord Rhys as he’s also known, is famous for holding the first Eisteddfod back in 1177, and he was also one of the main patrons of Ystrad Fflur Abbey – making it the ideal location to start the tour.

The show will reach Denbigh Castle on Friday 12 August, with the performance starting at 6.30pm

More information and tickets can be purchased from the website: www.mewncymeriad.cymru

The production is in Welsh and translation facilities will be available. Perfect for children who are in Welsh medium schools or learning Welsh as a second language.

This is the first time that Mewn Cymeriad company has created a family play. Established nearly ten years ago, the company has provided a host of interactive, one-character shows to primary schools throughout Wales.

Eleri Twynog, Director and Founder of Mewn Cymeriad says:

“Our intention is to present a piece of Welsh history that the whole family can enjoy in the open air – like the old anterliwtau, or interludes in days gone by. The story and the characters are very relevant to Ceredigion, and we hope to present something every year that will have a close connection to the area of the Eisteddfod, before touring to locations across Wales.”