The production explores the historical rebellion of Owain Glyndŵr against English rule with a focus on Welsh talent
Category: Arts & Culture
Michael Sheen is set to take the stage as Owain Glyndŵr in the upcoming production of Owain and Henry, a historical drama co-directed by Sheen, Steffan Donnelly, and Hannah Noone. The Welsh National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre confirmed the full cast and creative team on July 22, 2026, with performances scheduled to run from November 5 to 28 at the Donald Gordon Theatre.
The play, written by Gary Owen, centers on the 15th-century rebellion led by Glyndŵr against the English monarchy. Sheen, who has become a household name in both theatre and film, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "To stand alongside this extraordinary cast and to envision the life, fire and humanity we will bring to the stage together is beyond thrilling."
Joining Sheen on stage is Linus Roache, who will portray King Henry IV. The ensemble cast includes BAFTA Cymru winner Rakie Ayola as Mared Ferch Dafydd, Emily Burnett as Catrin Ferch Owain, and Sophie Melville as Lois. Melville's character, described as a mother turned warrior, offers a more complex role than typical supporting parts, highlighting the production's aim for depth and character weight.
The supporting cast features notable actors such as Ned Costello as Prince Hal, Brendan Charleson as Percy, Martyn Ellis as Sir John Falstaff, Gruffudd Glyn as Bryn, Ian Hughes as Baron Reginald Grey, David Judge as Hotspur, Richard Lynch as Rhys, and James Wilbraham as Mortimer. The cast also includes Lizzie Caitlin Bennett, Beau Bradfield, Harrison Claxton, Caitlin Drake, Mirain Fflur, Orla Hardie, Aisha-May Hunte, Corey Mitchell, Jamie Morgan, Luke Rhodri, and Joseph Tweedale.
Sheen emphasized the play's relevance, stating that it brings "two towering figures, two nations, and two versions of history into the same room." He believes the production will resonate with modern audiences by addressing historical tensions and creating new roles for local talent. Owen echoed this sentiment, noting the significance of presenting Owain's story on a grand scale. "I knew that to tell Owain’s story on stage would mean an epic show, at huge scale," Owen said. "They didn’t give you a sense of what was at stake. Owain’s play, like Owain’s struggle, would have to be all or nothing."
Graeme Farrow, Chief Creative Officer of the Wales Millennium Centre, highlighted the cultural importance of the production, stating, "Owain and Henry is a story about building a nation and about power and its corruptive effects. It is based on an old story but feels urgent and relevant." Farrow expressed confidence that the production will serve as a landmark moment for regional arts, emphasizing the theatre's role in celebrating Welsh stories.
Co-director Steffan Donnelly underscored the collaborative nature of the project, stating, "At its heart, theatre is a collective act: different artists coming together to create something none of us could make alone." He noted that the cast and creative team for Owain and Henry represent a major step forward for institutional collaboration in Wales. "This isn’t simply another production. It’s a chance to show what Welsh theatre can achieve when artists and organisations come together with real ambition," Donnelly said.
Sheen's involvement in the production is also linked to his Mab Gwalia movement, which aims to support and promote Welsh talent in the arts. The initiative seeks to provide assistant and associate roles for aspiring Welsh creatives, ensuring that the storytelling is rooted in local experience.
This commitment to local talent extends beyond the stage. The production aims to create an engaging experience that resonates with both local and global audiences. As theatre enthusiasts eagerly await the premiere, the Welsh National Theatre is determined to showcase the depth of Welsh narratives and the exceptional talent within the region.
As the opening night approaches, anticipation builds for the premiere of Owain and Henry. The production's run from November 5 to 28 gives the company a tight window to establish it as a flagship event for Welsh theatre. With the roster of talented actors and a visionary creative team in place, the upcoming performances are expected to draw considerable attention.
The implications of this production extend beyond entertainment; it signifies a broader movement within Welsh theatre to embrace and celebrate its own narratives on a grand scale. By tackling complex historical themes and creating opportunities for local artists, Owain and Henry positions itself as a potential turning point for the industry.
As audiences prepare to witness this ambitious theatrical endeavor, the hope is that it captivates and sparks discussions about identity, history, and the role of art in society. The production will likely be a landmark moment for the Welsh arts community, with Sheen and his team ready to bring this powerful story to life.
In a statement about the importance of the production, Sheen remarked, "For years people have wondered why Wales hadn’t told this story on this scale. That’s exactly what we’re setting out to do, creating opportunities for Welsh artists in its telling." The anticipation surrounding Owain and Henry reflects a growing recognition of the need for Welsh voices in the arts, making this production a remarkable event to watch.