Currently the various productions are directed by Dr Karen Ankers, Tom Wallwork and Lynne Jones.
Since 1994 the Rep has always been the most visible of the Ucheldre societies, with productions mounted two or three times each year. It was founded by Myrrha Stanford-Smith (1928 – 2021). When she first saw the Centre, she was captivated. ‘It was Belmont, Macbeth’s castle, the Rialto to my imagination’, she recalls. Determined to do Shakespeare in Holyhead, she began with a memorable performance of The Tempest in the amphitheatre — memorable partly because the first night was a tempest. Since then, the Rep has put on two very different versions of Under Milk Wood, works by Oscar Wilde, Chekhov, Noel Coward, and Alan Ayckbourn, and several others by Shakespeare, including a magical production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Jan Thomas directed a youth theatre. Some of the Rep’s young members, including Ben Crystal, Eiriona Jackson, Celyn (Barry) Jones, and Charlotte Kay, went on into the world of the theatre. Trefor Stockwell took over the company for a while, but Myrrha continued as director until 2012, with the direction of some productions being taken by other Rep members, notably Peter Schofield, and Brian Davies who sadly now have passed away. The current Director is Tom Wallwork. Tom was trained for the theatre at the Central School of Speech and Drama, London and has worked in the theatre for many years.
The Ucheldre Rep, as it is now called, continues to strive to be as professional as possible, bringing a variety of quality plays to the Centre. The drama group are a friendly lot all working together as a team to bring you the very best in entertainment. New members to the Rep are always welcome. There is no fee and no previous experience necessary as professional training is at hand.
The Rep covers all aspects of the theatre, from working behind the scenes to performing on stage. If you feel that you would like to join, please get in touch through the Ucheldre box-office on 01407 763361 or email: .
Centre for the performing and visual arts in Anglesey, North Wales