Welsh language production of Pinter classic on tour

Jan 21 2010

A WELSH translation of Harold Pinter’s classic play The Caretaker is heading out on tour.

Over six weeks Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru – the Welsh language national theatre – will stage Y Gofalwr (The Caretaker).

Pinter’s classic tale of tension, power and conspiracy has been adapted for TVand film, and remains an iconic play of its time and style.

It involves strong conflicts that erupt between two brothers and a visiting tramp, who struggle for verbal and territorial dominance.

Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru’s production of Y Gofalwr was translated into Welsh in the 1960s by Elis Gwyn from Llanystumdwy.

The Pwllheli art teacher, who died in 1999, was the brother of the Welsh dramatist WS Jones (Wil Sam) and translated the play for an amateur drama company based in Criccieth’s former Gegin Theatre, set up by the pair.

"Y Gofalwr was also performed professionally in 1970 by Cwmni Theatr Cymru who also toured Wales with an acclaimed production," said Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru’s Marketing Manager, Elin Williams.

"Audiences at the time were thrilled and were pleased with the translation of Pinter’s modern classic in their own language."

The three characters are played by the TV and stage actors Llion Williams, Rhodri Siôn and Carwyn Jones.

"Y Gofalwr is also Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru’s tribute to these two great individuals who contributed so much to the world of the theatre," added Elin.

Pwllheli Neuadd Dwyfor (01758 704088) February 24-27; Ruthin Theatre John Ambrose (01824 702575) March 2-3. Aberystwyth Arts Centre (01970 623232) March, 5-6; and Ceredigion Theatr Felin-fach (01570 470697) on March 9-10