Michael Sheen Makes History with Launch of Welsh National Theatre
A New Era for Welsh Theatre
Michael Sheen is self-financing a new national theater in his native Wales, marking a transformative moment for the country’s cultural landscape. Welsh National Theatre has unveiled its debut season, first appointments and creative pathways, following the establishment of the company in January by the actor Michael Sheen. The acclaimed stage and screen actor has taken on the role of artistic director, demonstrating his deep commitment to Welsh arts and culture.
The Hollywood actor wants to fill the gap left by the 2024 shutdown of the National Theatre Wales, forced to close after a 1.6 million pound ($1.96 million) funding cut. This bold initiative showcases Sheen’s dedication to ensuring Welsh stories and talent have a prominent platform on the world stage.
Inaugural Productions Launch This Month
The theatre’s debut season features two significant productions that celebrate Welsh heritage and culture. Earlier in 2026, Welsh National Theatre, in a co-production with the Rose Theatre, will present Our Town, Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, fitting an intimate Welsh setting perfectly. Michael Sheen will take on the leading role of Stage Manager, with Swansea-born Francesca Goodridge directing, Russell T Davies as the creative associate and Pádraig Cusack as executive producer.
The production will play the Swansea Grand Theatre (Friday 16 January-Saturday 31 January 2026), Venue Cymru in Llandudno (Tuesday 3 February-Saturday 7 February 2026), Theatr Clwyd in Mold (Wednesday 11 February-Saturday 21 February 2026) and the Rose Theatre, Kingston-upon-Thames (Thursday 26 February-28 March 2026). It will be staged by an all-Welsh cast and creative team for the first time in its 87-year history.
Looking Ahead: Celebrating Welsh History
The company’s second major production promises to be equally ambitious. Owain & Henry is an epic new play by Gary Owen, his blank verse breathing life into the 15th century rebellion against the English crown by the outlaw Owain Glyndŵr. Michael Sheen will play the last Welsh-born Prince of Wales, clashing with King Henry IV in a battle which could lead to freedom for Wales and the end of England. This production is scheduled for November 2026 at Wales Millennium Centre.
Significance for Wales and Beyond
Michael Sheen said: “This is a new dawn for theatre in Wales. We’ll be a home for our greatest talent, bringing them together to create ambitious theatre which makes our national story come alive. The theatre has also established the “Welsh Net”, a network of talent scouts across Wales, to watch youth, amateur and professional theatre performances and shows, with a view to identifying and developing talent.
The establishment of Welsh National Theatre represents more than just a cultural institution—it’s a commitment to preserving and promoting Welsh identity, stories, and artistic excellence. With Sheen’s international reputation and unwavering dedication to his homeland, this venture promises to elevate Welsh theatre to new heights, creating opportunities for local talent while sharing Wales’ rich cultural heritage with audiences worldwide. As the inaugural productions begin their runs this month, theatre enthusiasts across the UK and beyond will be watching this historic moment unfold.