It’s probable that Cwmni Pendraw’s latest production is the first play with a ‘scientific’ topic in the Welsh language. DNA – Darganfod cyfrinach bywyd– (or Finding the secret of life) opens in Pontio, Bangor, on 28-30 May before travelling through Wales in June.
Under the microscope is the discovery of the structure of DNA, a discovery which has revolutionised our world.

With a script and direction by Wyn Bowen Harries, the play reveals Rosalind Franklin’s contribution; she achieved a key stage in the story. Her work was ‘borrowed’ by James Watson and Francis Crick, who then went on to reveal the structure of DNA and win the Nobel Prize.

We find ourselves with a back-drop of the 1950’s and the consequent challenges faced by an unconventional character who challenged the period’s gender stereotypes.

It is all in the hands of experienced cast members: Siôn Emyr, Llŷr Evans, Morfudd Hughes and Manon Wilkinson.

As Wyn Bowen Harries sees it, this is a detective story. Rosalind Franklin is our ‘detective’, who explains her work and challenges to her friend and mentor, Adrienne Weill. We come to understand Rosalind’s work enhanced by projected images which illustrate the science simply and clearly. The design is in the capable hands of Cai Dyfan, with lighting and animation by Ceri James.  The whole production is accompanied by an original arrangement of songs and music from the period, played live by Patrick Rimes. In addition to being a folk musician, best known for being in Folk bands Vrï and Calan, Patrick is also a talented composer, arranger and conductor.

Wyn says:
 “As a company, we have specialised in bringing environmental and historical themes to the stage. This time, I wanted to delve deeper into a scientific field to show how science changes our lives, that there are gripping stories involved, and how the contribution of women has been under-appreciated in the past!”

“A strong story is essential and I felt that there was both a detective story and a love story here. Rosalind’s love and committment were undoubtedly to her work and to science itsself. Unbeknown to her, Rosalind herself was much loved and admired by her friend Adrienne and by fellow scientists, but she was solely committed to her work.”

The script was entered into the Drama Medal competition at the National Eisteddfod in 2024 – the year the competition was withdrawn. This is part of the adjudication:

“A story that traces the history of the discovery of DNA (sic), and the woman who contributed to the discovery. An ambitious piece of theatre that presents science, and how women have always played second fiddle to men in the scientific world. This global drama is a breath of fresh air for Welsh theatre.”