Origins of Theatr Clwyd
The concept of a ‘Centre for the Arts' in Mold was part of the vision of Flintshire County Council under the leadership of its Clerk, Mr TM. Haydn Rees. In 1967, the idea of developing the Shire Hall site into a major 'County Civic Centre' was at a planning stage and as well as new Law Courts, a County Library Headquarters and extensions to the Shire Hall complex, an integrated development of an Arts Centre and Educational Technology Centre was planned. In 1972 Flintshire approved finance for those elements of the overall plan that were thought feasible at the time: work commenced in 1973 on 'Phase One', the complex of buildings we have today, which was opened by Her Majesty the Queen in 1976. A proposal to construct a Concert Hall / Opera House as Phase Two of the complex was deferred indefinitely.
Since 1976, Theatr Clwyd has developed broadly along the lines established at the outset: a major English language professional theatre company, with a brief to tour within Wales, whose work is complemented by a programme of visiting performance activity (drama, dance, music, opera), film and exhibitions. The full potential of the Educational Technology Centre was never realised and the television facilities were leased to HTV until they reverted to Theatr Clwyd in 1992. However, a range of 'Outreach' education and community activities was developed, serving schools and communities throughout Clwyd.
A fuller history of Theatr Clwyd’s early years is contained in "Theatr Clwyd and its Company: 1976- 1986" - a book to celebrate the Tenth Anniversary.
You can download a slideshow presentation (1.6Mb) about the current (2006) work of the theatre by clicking here, or by using the link at the bottom of this page.
Previous Artistic Directors have been:-
George Roman (1976 - 1985)
Toby Robertson (1985 - 1992)
and Helena Kaut-Howson (1992 - 1995)
Terry Hands accepted the post of Director on 2 May 1997.
The name changed to Clwyd Theatr Cymru in 1998 to reflect the theatre's new national identity and remit following the changes brought about by Local Government Reorganisation in Wales. In 1998 the theatre won the Barclays/TMA Theatre of the Year award and in 1999 was designated a Welsh National Performing Arts Company by the Arts Council of Wales.
WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT US
"Mold's Theatr Clwyd is one of the hidden treasures of North Wales - a huge, vibrant culture complex... the company has an international profile... Theatre like this enhances the quality of life... it must be cherished"
The Guardian
"The nearest thing to a National Theatre of Wales..."
Sunday Times
"One of the most moving theatrical experiences I can remember. A perfect production"
The Guardian
"Its impact is magical... a landmark production"
Independent on Sunday
"I doubt that a better ‘Death of a Salesman’ will be seen on the British stage for years to come'.
Daily Telegraph
"Mold tourist information centre will open throughout the year in future .... the month-long Autumn production at Theatr Clwyd starring Oscar-winning Anthony Hopkins has led to a flood of requests for information about accommodation"
Clwyd Herald & Post
"...an event of international significance which lifts this theatre into the world championship class".
The Guardian
"Theatr Clwyd plays a vital part in helping to bring in new industry and economic development'.
Mr David Richards, Managing Director of Warwick International Limited, interviewed in The Dally Post
"Theatr Clwyd provides a vital contribution to the culture of North East Wales. In turn, industry in the area has a unique opportunity to give back to the community through sponsorship of its activities.'
Nigel Petrie, General Manager, First Hydro Ltd
- Slideshow presentation about the theatre (1679k)
This slideshow gives an overview of the current activity of Clwyd Theatr Cymru