Branwen Davies appointed to lead the re-established Urdd Youth Theatre Company.

Today (6 October) Urdd Gobaith Cymru announce Branwen Davies as the Urdd Youth Theatre Coordinator. Branwen will lead the organisation’s re-established Youth Theatre Company, which is credited for creating opportunities and introducing young people to the arts as they discover the world of the theatre.

As the Urdd enters the final act of its centenary year, Wales’ largest youth organisation is looking forward to the future by re-launching the Urdd Youth Theatre Company. Thanks to a £1 million* investment by the Welsh Government, the Urdd Youth Theatre Company will offer new opportunities to young people aged 16-25 across Wales who have an interest in any aspect of the arts.

Today, under the experienced and creative guidance of Branwen Davies, the Urdd invites young people aged between 16-25 to register their interest to join the Company.

Branwen Davies, Urdd Gobaith Cymru Youth Theatre Company Coordinator said:

“Over the years many have benefited from and enjoyed being part of the Urdd’s Youth Theatre productions, gaining life-long experiences that have helped shaped their careers.

As part of the Urdd Youth Theatre Company, I’m looking forward to offering exciting and invaluable experiences to young people who are interested or curious about all aspects of theatre – performing, designing, stage management – there’s something for everyone. I want to give young people who have an interest but no previous experience in the arts an opportunity to explore and gain new skills. Collaborating with experts and specialists from across the arts will be both fun and challenging as we work with young people from across Wales to stretch horizons, build confidence and gain news skills.”

The Urdd Youth Theatre Company was first established in the 1970s and has been credited for nurturing and influencing talent across the arts. Over the years the Company has created a strong portfolio of original stage productions, offering young people the chance to perform and tour across Wales whilst developing their skills

Sian Eirian, Urdd Eisteddfod and Arts Director said:

“It is a great privilege to announce the appointment of Branwen Davies as the Urdd Youth Theatre Company Coordinator. The centenary has been an exciting year for the Urdd as we celebrate our history and roots, but it’s also an opportunity to grab new and future opportunities for our young people in the Welsh language.

Over the years Urdd Youth Theatre Company has influenced and provided a strong foundation for thousands of young people, with many names carving a successful career in the theatre. On behalf of the Urdd, I am proud to re-launch the Urdd Youth Theatre Company and look forward to seeing the Company grow under Branwen’s leadership.

Branwen brings a wealth of experience to the Youth Theatre Company. Branwen’s name and talent is recognised across the arts; she has extensive experience working with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, the National Dance Company of Wales, and most recently as Literary Manager at the Sherman Theatre. Branwen has also been a Theatre and Performance lecturer at universities across Wales. I know that Branwen will create amazing opportunities for members of the Urdd Youth Theatre Company and I would encourage anyone between the age of 16-25 to register their interest and join the team.

I would also like to thank the Welsh Government for their financial support of £1 million over five years which has enabled us to realise the dream of re-establishing Urdd Youth Theatre Company.”