Wales has long been known as a nation of storytellers, where culture is not only protected but shared, celebrated and constantly reimagined.
Last night in New York, guests from the Welsh diaspora, leading figures from the arts and entertainment industries, and stars of stage and screen came together to honour one of Wales’ greatest cultural icons, Richard Burton, whose centenary is being celebrated this month.
The evening also marked the arrival of a new chapter in Welsh theatre, with the founding of the Welsh National Theatre, established by acclaimed Welsh actor Michael Sheen.
At New York’s renowned Lincoln Center Theater, guests were treated to the first-ever performance by the Welsh National Theatre: Playing Burton. Written by Mark Jenkins, directed by Bartlett Sher and produced by Cambra Overend, this reimagined production was brought vividly to life by Emmy award-winning Welsh actor Matthew Rhys.
It was a powerful and moving tribute, blending reflection on Wales’ artistic legacy with celebration of the contemporary talent shaping its creative industries today.
Playing Burton will tour Wales and London later this month as part of a series of events marking Richard Burton’s centenary across the UK.
Guests also enjoyed cocktails made with award-winning Welsh Cygnet Gin, created by world-renowned singer Katherine Jenkins OBE, who attended the celebration.
The event was the first delivered by the Deputy Head of Wales in North America, marking an unforgettable occasion that showcased Welsh language and culture at the heart of one of New York’s most iconic venues. As the evening drew to a close, guests joined together to raise a glass and toast in Welsh: “Iechyd da!”
Find out more about the Richard Burton centenary and the Playing Burton tour.