Owain & Henry: Reviving Welsh Stories for a Vibrant Theatre Community
Michael Sheen - Credit: Shutterstock
The air is charged with excitement as Wales Millennium Centre announces Owain & Henry, a groundbreaking new production starring the esteemed Michael Sheen. Premiering in November 2026, this theatrical masterpiece will grace the Donald Gordon Theatre stage, igniting one of Wales' most defining historical moments with renewed vigor.
Written by celebrated playwright Gary Owen, Owain & Henry delves into the legendary rebellion led by Owain Glyndŵr against King Henry IV—a tale of resilience, identity, and ambition. As Artistic Director of Welsh National Theatre, Michael Sheen brings his artistic gravitas to this epic retelling, offering audiences a chance to connect with our national history in a profound and inspiring way.
For me, stories like Owain & Henry hold unparalleled power. They help us, as Welsh people, not only rediscover our roots but also understand the cultural nuances that make Wales extraordinary. As someone deeply committed to telling Welsh stories on stage, I believe productions like this are essential for cultivating a deeper connection to our heritage while also drawing new and emerging audiences to the magic of theatre. The way Welsh narratives resonate with first-time theatre-goers—as seen in the Centre's Nye, where 25% of the audience had never attended before—underscores the immense potential of this work to reach people far beyond our usual circles.
Graeme Farrow, Artistic and Creative Director at Wales Millennium Centre, eloquently captures the ethos behind this ambitious production:
"Owain & Henry builds on our commitment to producing high-quality theatre and supports Welsh and Wales-based artists in being ambitious in their work. This co-production shares another iconic story deeply rooted in our national identity and history; we can’t wait for audiences worldwide to experience it."
Theatre is more than entertainment—it's a lifeline for our cultural identity. I firmly believe it’s crucial to champion Welsh-led narratives that not only preserve our traditions but also inspire new generations to carry them forward. Owain & Henry serves as a brilliant example, reminding us that the stories of our past are still deeply relevant today.
As part of this celebration of Welsh creativity, the Welsh National Theatre also presents Our Town, a reimagining of Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize-winning play through a distinctly Welsh lens. Directed by Swansea’s Francesca Goodridge, featuring Michael Sheen as Stage Manager, and enriched by Russell T Davies as Creative Associate, this production underscores the dynamic breadth of Welsh theatre.
Together, these projects herald a new chapter for Welsh arts—one that is rooted in our culture but designed to captivate audiences everywhere. As Wales Millennium Centre and Welsh National Theatre continue to redefine the stage, I can’t help but feel immense pride in the role Welsh stories play in connecting us to the world. And for audiences old and new, these productions are a rallying call to celebrate the extraordinary talent within Wales.
Tickets for Owain & Henry are available from 4 August for Wales Millennium Centre members and from 8 August for the general public. Don’t miss this remarkable opportunity to experience the timeless spirit of Welsh storytelling brought to life with bold ambition.
