The highly anticipated stage adaptation of the literary phenomenon Llyfr Glas Nebo is coming to Cardiff this spring. There will be three performances at Sherman Theatre on the 10th and 11th of February 2020 as part of national tour.
The drama by Frân Wen, in partnership with Galeri, tells the incredible story of Siôn, his mother Rowenna and his young sister, Dwynwen, as they try to survive in a post-apocalyptic world.
The novel has made a huge impression since its publication nearly 12 months ago. A week after winning the Prose Medal in the 2018 Cardiff National Eisteddfod, a reprint was being prepared, and in June it swept the boards at the Wales Book of the Year awards.
Tara Bethan plays the mother of Rowenna, with Eben James playing her son, Sion.
“It’s a huge honour to play a part in adapting Llyfr Glas Nebo for the stage – there’s no doubt that it’s one of the most exciting Welsh novels in recent years,” said Tara.
“It’s a story that hits hard and challenges us to question the world we live in today. I love the fact that the characters manage to survive against all expectations – it’s amazing how we cope and adapt in difficult situations.”
The performance on the 10th will have English surtitles – and there will be a Q&A session with the cast and creative team immediately after.
Manon Steffan Ros herself is responsible for adapting to the stage, with Elgan Rhys directing, set and costume designer is Elin Steele and the original score will be created by composer R.Seiliog.
“It was a no-brainer to ask Manon to adapt it for the stage. She’s lived with the characters for a longtime, she knows them more than anybody and understands how far she can push them,” said Nia Jones, Frân Wen’s Executive Director.
“We’ve worked a lot with her over the years – in fact her first professional job was with Frân Wen as an actor nearly 20 years ago and more recently as a playwright – so we know how open she is to explore and capitalize on what theatre as a medium can offer to a good story.”
“By adapting this gripping story to stage, it will bring to life the wealth of Manon’s imagination, characterization and linguistic skills. We’re aiming to force the audience to question how they live, love and care about the world around them,” said director Elgan.
“She has managed to add new dimensions to this story that we’re all really excited about.”
Llyfr Glas Nebo plays the Sherman Theatre on 10 & 11 February 2020
Visit www.shermantheatre.co.uk/performance/theatre/llyfr-glas-nebo/ for details