What's Happening?
Actor Mark Lewis Jones is featured in a new bilingual production titled "In A Hundred Years / Ymhen Can Mlynedd," which commemorates the 100th anniversary of The Stiwt theatre in Rhosllannerchrugog. The theatre, a Grade II-listed venue, opened in September
1926 and was originally built by the Miners’ Welfare Organisation. Miners contributed a penny from each ton of coal extracted between 1924 and 1926, and even spared tuppence per week from their own wages to fund its construction. The production, led by award-winning producer-writer Bethan Jones and director Daniel Lloyd of Theatr Clwyd, includes a diverse cast of familiar names, local performers, and community groups such as the Rhos Male Voice Choir and Theatr Ifanc. The play aims to tell the story of The Stiwt and the community that has supported it over the past century, acknowledging its past, celebrating its present, and looking forward to its future. The Stiwt is deeply rooted in Wrexham’s mining heritage and working-class history, having been restored by community efforts after closing in 1977 and reopening in September 1996.
Why It's Important?
This production is significant as it highlights the enduring cultural and historical importance of community-funded institutions like The Stiwt. The theatre's origins, built by miners' contributions despite their meager wages, underscore a powerful legacy of collective action and dedication to arts and culture within working-class communities. The involvement of both professional actors and local community groups in the centenary celebration reinforces the theatre's role as a central hub for local talent and cultural expression. The event also draws attention to the broader theme of preserving historical venues and their narratives, particularly those that reflect the social and industrial heritage of a region. The Stiwt's journey from its inception to its restoration by community efforts demonstrates the resilience and commitment of local populations to their cultural landmarks, ensuring that these spaces continue to serve as platforms for education, arts, and language for future generations.
What's Next?
The bilingual production "In A Hundred Years / Ymhen Can Mlynedd" is scheduled for two performances on September 25 and 26, 2026. These performances will serve as the central event for The Stiwt's centenary celebrations. Following these initial performances, the theatre will likely continue its regular program of theatre, comedy, and music, alongside various cultural activities for the local community. The success of this centenary production could potentially inspire further community-led initiatives and collaborations, reinforcing The Stiwt's role as a vibrant cultural institution. Additionally, the attention generated by this event may contribute to Wrexham’s bid for UK City of Culture 2029, as highlighted by Morgan Thomas, Bid Coordinator for Wrecsam2029, who emphasized the importance of places like The Stiwt in the city's cultural landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of The Stiwt theatre transcends a simple centenary celebration; it embodies the profound connection between a community and its cultural institutions, particularly in areas with rich industrial histories. The theatre's survival and resurgence, driven by the collective will of the community, illustrate a powerful model of grassroots cultural preservation. This narrative challenges the perception that cultural development is solely the domain of large, state-funded bodies, demonstrating how local populations can independently foster and sustain artistic endeavors. The bilingual nature of the production also underscores the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural identity within the arts, reflecting the heritage of the region. Furthermore, the involvement of multiple generations, from the original miners to contemporary performers, highlights the intergenerational transfer of cultural values and the continuous evolution of community spirit through shared artistic experiences.
