A new theatre production co-created by a former Ysgol Tryfan pupil is beginning its national tour in Bangor this month.

 

Ynys Alys (Alys’ Island) combines theatre, rap and pop as it follows a young woman and her new found independence after she leaves home for the first time.

The soundtrack was composed and performed virtually by pop artist Casi Wyn, who hails from Pentir, and rap artist Lemarl Freckleton, named as BBC Introducing’s Ones to Watch 2021 under his pseudonym Lemfreck.

The production will start its national tour at Pontio Bangor on Thursday, 17 March 2022 with all performances including English and Welsh captions.

“It’s an emotionally explosive portrayal of who we are in times of change, and what we hope to hold on to as we rebuild  our world,” said director Gethin Evans, who is Frân Wen’s Artistic Director.

The show stars Valmai Jones and Fflur Medi Owen as a mother and daughter falling through centuries as they grapple with the future of the house that has been in their family for generations. Joining them on stage for her professional debut is former Ysgol David Hughes pupil Becca Naiga as Alys, the 18-year-old trying to hold it all together as she navigates her way through an independent life. 

“The idea for Ynys Alys came from discussion with our Young Company, who are incredibly passionate about Welsh independence. But when we spoke to other young people from different parts of Wales it became clear that  ‘independence’ really means different things to different people.” added Gethin.

Newport based rapper Lemarl and singer songwriter Casi worked side-by-side with playwright Gareth Evans-Jones during the creative process.

“The tracks are a meeting of worlds and sharing of perspectives,” said Casi.

“Each song weaves into the unfolding adventure between the characters as the soundtrack captures their hopes and fears. Finding the connections between the characters and the score was key so that everything works in unity – though it’s not always obvious.”

According to Casi the soundtrack bridges between quite contrasting musical and cultural styles which has resulted in a completely original and bold production.

“Bilingualism plays its part quite prominently – with Welsh sitting naturally alongside English as we flow in and out of melodies, beats and poetry.”

Ynys Alys will tour Wales between 17 March and 09 April 2022.

Production dates: Pontio Bangor (17 – 19 March), Neuadd Dwyfor Pwllheli (22 – 23 March), Stiwt Rhosllanerchrugog (24 – 25 March), Aberystwyth Arts Centre (28 – 29 March), Galeri Caernarfon (30 – 31 March), Theatr Soar Merthyr Tydfil (2 April), Ffwrnes Llanelli (05 – 06 April) and Sherman Theatre Cardiff (07 – 09 April).

Tickets and further information visit www.franwen.com

For further information, interviews or photos please call Carl Russell Owen on 07557113046

PHOTO CAPTIONS

(1) YnysAlysYmarfer.Cast.jpg (photo by Ffotonant)

From left: Fflur Medi, Valmai Jones and Beca Naiga rehearsing Ynys Alys. / Fflur Medi, Valmai Jones a Beca Naiga yn ymarfer Ynys Alys.

(2) YnysAlys.Casi.Lem.jpg (photo by Kirsten McTernan)

Casi Wyn and Lemarl Freckleton in rehearsals. / Casi Wyn a Lemarl Freckleton yn ymarfer.

(3) CasiWyn.RecordioYnysAlys.jpg (photo by Ffotonant)

Casi Wyn recording the Ynys Alys soundtrack. / Casi Wyn yn recordio traciau sain Ynys Alys.