On Bear Ridge

Sherman / Royal Court Theatre

Starring Rhys Ifans, Rakie Ayola, Jason Hughes & Sion Daniel Young, On Bear Ridge is highly acclaimed writer Ed Thomas’s return to the theatre after a 15 year hiatus. A deeply thought-provoking and destabilising reflection on memory and loss, set in a post-apocalyptic world.

John Hardy Music created the music for the National Theatre Wales and Royal Court Theatre co-production of Ed Thomas’ new play On Bear Ridge starring Rakie Ayola, Rhys Ifans, Jason Hughes & Sion Daniel Young.

Cyd-weithion ar gyd-gynhyrchiad drama newydd Ed Thomas On Bear Ridge gan NTW a’r Royal Court.

Music Reviews

“(The) score uses mysterious Welsh language throat-singing to call back a tribal, folkloric past.” (Buzz Mag)

“One of Wales’ most celebrated writers, Ed Thomas (co-creator of Hinterland) makes a momentous return to the stage with this semi-autobiographical story about the places we leave behind, the indelible marks they make on us, and the unreliable memories we hold onto.” (NTW)

General Reviews

“One of Wales’ most celebrated writers, Ed Thomas (co-creator of Hinterland) makes a momentous return to the stage with this semi-autobiographical story about the places we leave behind, the indelible marks they make on us, and the unreliable memories we hold onto” (National Theatre Wales)

“It is finely acted. Ifans and Ayola suggest a life lived together with heartbreaking ease, both saturated to their bones with grief. Ayola’s performance is beautiful, possessing a grounded stillness that holds together the entire world” (Gareth Llŷr Evans, The Guardian UK)

“ ***** impressive joint venture between National Theatre Wales and London’s Royal Court theatre” (Clare Brennan, The Guardian UK)

Music and Production Credits

Composed by Tic Ashfield and John Hardy

Project Managed by Tic Ashfield and John Hardy

Special thanks to Robert Evans & Mary-Anne Roberts from The Welsh folk duo BRAGOD

Directed by Vicki Featherstone and Ed Thomas

Assistant Director Izzy Rabey

Written by Ed Thomas

Sound Designer Mike Beer

Produced by National Theatre Wales & The Royal Court

On Bear Ridge was performed at the Sherman, Cardiff 20th September - 5th October and at the Royal Court Theatre, London 24th October - 23rd November.

For more information and to see rehearsal photos of the cast and crew visit the NTW site.