Michael Sheen’s Welsh National Theatre Announces Debut Productions
Michael Sheen, the esteemed Welsh actor, has revealed the inaugural productions of his newly established theatre company, the Welsh National Theatre. The company’s maiden performance will feature a rendition of Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “Our Town.” The production will be directed by Francesca Goodridge, a native of Swansea, who plans to infuse the performance with a Welsh essence. Joining the creative team are renowned personalities such as Russell T Davies, the acclaimed writer of “Doctor Who,” serving as creative associate, Pádraig Cusack as executive producer, and Sheen himself taking on the role of stage manager.
The first play, “Our Town,” is set to tour various venues in Wales before heading to London in the coming year. Opening at the Swansea Grand Theatre from Friday 16 to Saturday 31 January 2026, the production will travel to Venue Cymru in Llandudno, Theatr Clwyd in Mold, and the Rose Theatre in Kingston-upon-Thames. Speaking about the project, Sheen expressed his gratitude in having the talented and Welsh-born director Francesca Goodridge leading the show. Goodridge shared her excitement, highlighting the play’s themes of community, small-town life, and the Welsh concept of ‘Hiraeth,’ which signifies a nostalgic longing for a place or time unrecoverable.
In addition to “Our Town,” the Welsh National Theatre will also present a new play by Cardiff playwright Gary Owen titled “Owain and Henry.” In this production, Sheen will take on the role of the titular outlaw, Owain Glyndwr, as the play delves into his historic 15th-century rebellion against King Henry IV. Sheen praised Owen’s work, describing it as one of the most ambitious Welsh plays he has encountered, emphasizing the company’s commitment to bold and impactful storytelling. The play is scheduled to grace the stage at the WMC’s main Donald Gordon Theatre in November 2026, with tickets set to go on sale in August.
This venture by Michael Sheen marks a significant milestone in Welsh theatre, aiming to revitalise and champion storytelling that resonates with Welsh culture and heritage. The decision to launch the Welsh National Theatre comes amidst transitional funding support of £200,000 from the Arts Council for Wales. This support is particularly crucial following the withdrawal of financial backing for the now-defunct National Theatre Wales, underscoring the importance of nurturing and promoting the arts in Wales.
With a commitment to showcasing diverse and impactful narratives, the Welsh National Theatre under Michael Sheen’s guidance is poised to become a dynamic force in the cultural landscape of Wales. By blending traditional storytelling with contemporary perspectives, the company seeks to engage audiences and celebrate the rich tapestry of Welsh history and identity through the power of live theatre.
As preparations for the debut productions of the Welsh National Theatre gather pace, theatre enthusiasts and cultural aficionados eagerly anticipate the unveiling of these compelling narratives on stage. Through the vision and creative talent of Michael Sheen and his team, audiences can look forward to a season of thought-provoking and transformative performances that embody the spirit and essence of Welsh storytelling at its finest. Join us as we embark on this exciting new chapter in Welsh theatre, led by the visionary Michael Sheen and the Welsh National Theatre.