After its roaring success at last year’s Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod, Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru is thrilled to announce that Parti Priodas by Gruffudd Owen will tour Wales this spring.
Parti Priodas is a laugh-out-loud comedy following characters Lowri and Idris – disgruntled guests at a marquee wedding in Pen Llŷn. With Artistic Director Steffan Donnelly returning as director, the comany is also delighted to welcome back artists Mared Llywelyn and Mark Henry Davies to the stage.
There was huge demand for this funny play during the National Eisteddfod, with Caffi Maes B jam-packed at every performance – and even First Minister Mark Drakeford in the audience. The play was chosen as a 2023 Highlight by Radio Cymru, noting excellent performances and a hilarious story that gripped the imagination. The company is now developing a touring version of the show which will open in the Sherman Theatre, Cardiff, in April before touring the country.
While sharing news of the national tour, Steffan Donnelly said:
“Parti Priodas was the ‘smash hit’ at the Eisteddfod last year so we’re excited to take it on a national tour for more people to experience this celebration of laughter, dancing and love.
Developing new and relatable writing is one of our main goals at Theatr Gen. Gruffudd’s beautifully crafted play harnesses comedy’s unique power to make us think - about our relationship with home, the second homes crisis in rural Wales and life’s trajectory.
I can’t wait to explore the story again with Mared and Mark and laugh with audiences all over Wales – from Machynlleth Comedy Festival to Nant Conwy Rugby Club. If you’ve ever navigated the awkward and awesome at weddings, come and see this show!”
The company is also collaborating once again with Set and Costume Designer Luned Gwawr and multi-disciplinary performer and dancer Cêt Haf as Movement Director. The production includes original music from composer and musician Sam Humphreys and the company are also delighted to welcome Lighting Designer Jane Lalljee to the team.
Gruffudd was a member of Theatr Gen’s New Playwright’s Group in 2018-2019. Since then, he has been working under commission with the company to continue developing this special play.
Gruffudd said:
“Parti Priodas is a comedy play about belonging, loneliness and making a fool of yourself on the dancefloor! After being staged for the first time at the National Eisteddfod in Boduan, I’m so pleased that Lowri, Idris (and all the weird and wonderful characters at the wedding!) get to tour Wales. I’m very grateful to Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru for the opportunity to develop this play as part of the New Playwrights’ Group and for gathering amazing creative people to stage it all. Iechyd da and enjoy the wedding!”
English and Welsh captions are available at the performances in Cardiff and the Machynlleth Comedy Festival – and Sibrwd, our language access app, will be available at all other performances.