A new drama exploring the origins of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ has brought an important chapter of the university's history to life, thanks to support from alumni donors through the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Fund.
Ar Geinioga’ (On Pennies), a one-man play telling the story of the founding of the University College of North Wales through the eyes of the University's first Principal, Sir Harry Reichel, was staged in the Council Chamber during Whitsun week before touring venues across North Wales.
The production was a collaboration between ¾«¶«´«Ã½'s School of Welsh, School of Education and Theatr Bara Caws. The project originated from an idea by Rhian Tomos, Lecturer in the School of Education, who recognised the wider story behind Reichel's contribution to establishing the College on the Hill.
Appointed Principal in 1884 at just 27 years old, Harry Reichel played a pivotal role in securing the future of the fledgling institution. The play recounts the University's early years, highlighting how local quarrymen, farmers and communities helped make higher education in North Wales possible through their small but significant contributions.
Written by Dr Manon Williams, Lecturer in Drama and Scriptwriting in the School of Welsh, the production explored both the historical and personal story of Reichel and the challenges involved in establishing the University College of North Wales.
Reflecting on the project, Dr Williams said:
This story is an important part not only of the area's history but also of our history as a nation. I am extremely grateful to the staff at ¾«¶«´«Ã½'s Archives for all their support during the research process, and to the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Fund for its generous contribution to bringing this project to life.
Directed by Betsan Llwyd on behalf of Theatr Bara Caws and performed by Honorary Fellow Llion Williams, the production also provided valuable opportunities for ¾«¶«´«Ã½ students to gain hands-on experience. Students shadowed rehearsals, supported front-of-house activities and helped filmed and edited elements of the production, gaining insight into the professional theatre industry. Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
Judith Humphreys, audience, described the play as:
A compelling and engaging play: historical, educational and entertaining all at once. It deserves a place in our schools' history curriculum, as it says so much about the history of Wales more broadly.
The School of Welsh and The North Wales School of Education would like to thank all alumni donors whose generosity made this project possible. Their support enabled the University's history to be shared with new audiences while creating meaningful learning opportunities for ¾«¶«´«Ã½ students.
For those who were unable to attend, filmed sections of the production is available with English subtitles here.
Some photos from the rehearsal and play
Without a doubt, taking part in the production Ar Geinioga’ was an incredibly rewarding experience. I gained a fascinating insight into the process of creating a stage production. I particularly enjoyed watching the rehearsals unfold and found it very satisfying to follow the creative process as it developed from one week to the next.
Osian Rowlands, undergraduate student in the School of Welsh
The experience has helped me build confidence in my abilities and skills as I worked on different aspects of video production, something I would not normally have the opportunity to do. I really enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to work with industry professionals and learn from them, as well as observe their working methods, particularly when working through the medium of Welsh.
Mia Anderson, Film Studies and Production undergraduate student
The ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Fund is made up of alumni donations, administered by the Development and Alumni Relations Office, which provides an element of additionality to the student experience.
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