Michael Sheen Launches Welsh National Theatre

Following the closure of National Theatre Wales due to a £1.6 million funding cut from Arts Council Wales, actor Michael Sheen has announced the creation of a new Welsh National Theatre, where he will serve as artistic director. Sheen aims to tell 'big stories on big stages for big audiences', starting with a production slated for autumn 2026 at Cardiff’s Millennium Centre, in which he intends to perform. Initially self-financing the venture, Sheen hopes this will lay a foundation for securing both private and public funding in the future. He emphasized the need for Welsh stories and talent to be at the center of the new company, which he believes is crucial for representing the culture of Wales. Sheen's decision was inspired by the success of his recent role in the play 'Nye', which showcased the potential for significant theatrical endeavors in Wales. This initiative comes at a time when Wales is reported to have low public spending on the arts, highlighting the urgency of revitalizing its theatrical landscape.