Pontio’s opening show Chwalfa cancelled

Following recent announcements regarding the delay in the opening of Pontio, Bangor University regretfully has to announce that it will no longer be possible to reschedule Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru’s production of Chwalfa in the New Year as originally hoped.

Bangor University’s Vice-Chancellor Professor John G. Hughes said:

“Following detailed discussions with the contractor, and with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, it has become clear that work on the building project is unlikely to be completed in time for us to reschedule Chwalfa in February as originally hoped.

“I have taken the difficult and painful decision to cancel Chwalfa although we are continuing to work closely with Theatr Genedlaethol to bring high quality Welsh drama to Pontio in the future.

“I fully recognise everyone’s disappointment at this news but given the delays in the building schedule to date we have no other choice. We sincerely apologise to the hard-working cast, the crew and our audiences, and we share their disappointment.

“Pontio box office staff will be in touch with customers directly to reimburse their tickets.

“We are now going through a detailed process of review with the contractor, Miller, to establish a revised timetable for opening.

“Our priority is on working to complete the building and deliver a high quality artistic opening programme. As building work develops, we will make further announcements.”

Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru’s artistic director Arwel Gruffydd added:

“It is a disappointment to me and the company that we will not be able to stage Chwalfa in the New Year. This comes after months of preparatory work, and many of us – artists, professional theatre workers as well as members of the local community – have worked tirelessly and given so much to create this exceptional production.

“We, and Pontio, will be seeking every possible opportunity to stage this work in the future. Unfortunately it was not possible for us to have assurances that Theatr Bryn Terfel would be ready for us to do so in the New Year. We will therefore continue with plans to stage another production elsewhere in the New Year.

“We would like to thank the residents of the area for the welcome and support that we received. We are looking forward to returning as soon as it will be possible. We also wish Pontio every success as they prepare to open their doors and we look forward to visiting the Centre with a wealth of productions in the future.”

Publication date: 6 October 2014