Overview
Ffion is a Senior Lecturer in Drama, Theatre and Performance and leads the Drama provision within the School of Arts, Culture and Language at Bangor University. She is also a Professional Theatre Director who has been directing and lecturing since 2011.
Ffion graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Theatre, Film and Television at Aberystwyth University, receiving a Catrin Jones Hughes Award for achieving highest in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television and continued on to complete a Postgradute Taught Masters Degree in Theatre Directing at St Mary’s University College London.
She has trained professionally with the Welsh Language National Theatre of Wales (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) and Sherman Theatre Cardiff, and has directed large scale national touring productions across Wales. Specialising in Contemporary New Plays, Site Specific Performances, Opera and Theatre for Children and Young People.
In 2015 she became Associate Director for theatre company 'Fran Wen', directing plays across Wales as well as the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival before moving on to be selected as one of 12 UK Directors to embark on a research residency with World Renowned German Theatre Director, Thomas Ostermeier (Schaubuhne Theatre Berlin) to evaluate Contemporary European Directing Methodology (in partnership with the National Theatre of Scotland, National Theatre Wales and Goethe-Institut Glasgow).
Ffion has extensive professional experience and has trained with directors, actors, vocal coaches and movement directors from the Royal Shakespeare Company, Young Vic, Shakespeare Globe, West Yorkshire Playhouse, Complicite, Frantic Assembly, Mike Alfreds and Living Pictures and ensures students gain industry-related teaching within their own studies.
Since 2021 she has achieved the status of Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in recognition for her teaching excellence and learning support in Higher Education and excellence in leadership and mentoring of staff and students. In 2023, Ffion was shortlisted for oustanding pastoral care at the Student Led Teaching Awards across the University.
Ffion is currently persuing her research interests and pedagogy on a EdD (professional doctorate) programme with the School of Educational Sciences at Bangor University. Investigating the relationships between ecology and performance within environmental educational context.
Additional Contact Information
Ffion Haf Evans
Position: Senior Lecturer in Drama, Theatre and Performance
Email: ffion.haf@bangor.ac.uk
Phone: 01248 388458
Office Location: First Floor, Music Building (Staff Offices)
Current Administrative Responsibilities:
Programme Lead for Drama, Theatre and Performance.
Director of Marketing and Recruitment for the School of Arts, Culture and Language.
Qualifications
- Professional: Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
2021 - Professional: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
2019 - BA: Drama and Theatre Studies (First Class Honours)
Prifysgol Aberystwyth, - MA: Theatre Directing
St. Mary's University College,
Research Interests
Research Interests:
Performance and the Environment: Narrative inquiry within the context of environmental education. The relationship between performance and ecology. Embodied learning environments. Exploring creative, imaginative and empathetic thinking in science education.
Drama, Theatre and Performance: Directing, Acting, Dramaturgy, Contemporary Theatre, Multi Media Theatre, Film and Theatre. Performance Training, Actor's Training, New Writing, Devised Theatre, Scenography, Theatre in the Community, Theatre for Children and Young People, Theatre for Families, Professional Practice in the Arts Industry.
Publications
2017
- PublishedCyfarwyddwr Cynorthwyol i Opera 'Y Twr' gan Music Theatre Wales a Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Evans, F. (Other), 12 May 2017
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2016
- Published'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' Cynhyrchiad Theatr wed ei gyfarwyddo gan Ffion Haf: Awdur: Gary Owen, Cyfieithiad Cymraeg: Meic Povey (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru mewn cydweithrediad a Fran Wen a Galeri Caernarfon)
Haf, F. (Producer), 13 Apr 2016
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2015
- Published'Drych' Cynhyrchiad Theatr wed ei gyfarwyddo gan Ffion Haf: Awdur Llyr Titus (Fran Wen mewn cydweithrediad a Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru)
Haf, F. (Producer), 30 Sept 2015
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - Published'Saer y Ser' Cynhyrchiad Theatr wedi ei gyfarwyddo gan Ffion Haf: Dyfeisio gan y cwmni (Fran Wen mewn partneriaeth creadigol a Pontio a Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru)
Haf, F. (Producer), 30 Oct 2015
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2014
- Published'Dim Diolch' Cynhyrchiad Theatr wedi ei gyfarwyddo gan Ffion Haf: Awdur: Iola Ynyr (Fran Wen - Gwyl Rhyngwladol Caeredin)
Haf, F. (Producer), 13 Aug 2014
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - Published'Rhwng Dau Fyd' Cynhyrchiad Theatr wedi ei gyfarwyddo gan Ffion Haf: Awdur: Meic Povey (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru mewn partneriaeth a Sherman Cymru a Living Pictures)
Haf, F. (Producer), 10 Sept 2014
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedBocsys (Boxes): Brain - Fran Wen
Haf, F. (Producer), 26 Feb 2014
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedChwalfa gan T Rowlands Hughes addasiad llwyfan Gareth Miles (Cynhyrchiad mewn cydweithrediad a Fran Wen a Pontio)
Haf, F. (Producer), 10 Sept 2014
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedChwarel (Quarry): Brain - Fran Wen mewn cydweithrediad a Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru a Pontio
Haf, F. (Photographer), 21 Jul 2014
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2013
- PublishedBlodeuwedd gan Saunders Lewis
Haf, F. (Producer), 20 Jul 2013
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedDim Diolch North Wales Tour
Haf, F. (Other), 1 Nov 2013
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedGwyn dy Fyd: Brain - Fran Wen
Haf, F. (Producer), 20 Feb 2013
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedI'r Gad
Evans, F. (Other), 2013
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2012
- PublishedSbri gan Fran Wen a Urdd Gobaith Cymru
Haf, F. (Producer), 5 Jun 2012
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedSigl di gwt (cyfnod o ddyfeisio gyda Cwmni'r Fran Wen)
Haf, F. (Producer), 5 Jul 2012
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedTasa ti'n Sefyll yn Fama (If you were standing here): Brain - Fran Wen
Haf, F. (Producer), 20 Feb 2012
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2011
- PublishedThe Country by Martin Crimp
Haf, F. (Other), 10 Jun 2011
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedTheatr Ieuenctid yr Urdd 2011
Haf, F. (Other), 20 Jul 2011
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
2010
- PublishedDevised exploration of Blodeuwedd by Saunders Lewis
Haf, F. (Producer), 10 Dec 2010
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance - PublishedEsiampl Dr Korzak (Dr Korzak's Example) by David Greig
Haf, F. (Other), 10 Jun 2010
Research output: Non-textual form › Performance
Activities
2023
- Meeting ALN (Additional Learning Needs) Module. (Taught Masters Module) School of Education, Bangor University.
2 Oct 2023 – 31 Aug 2024
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Research Methods in Education Module (Taught Masters Module), School of Education, Bangor University.
2 Oct 2023 – 31 Aug 2024
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - International Creative Research Methods Conference
7 Sep 2023 – 8 Sep 2023
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant)
2022
- Educational Leadership and Management (Taught Masters Module) School of Education, Bangor University.
3 Oct 2022 – 31 Aug 2023
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Module in Counselling in Education (Taught Masters Module) School of Education, Bangor University.
Level 7 (Masters Level) Module in 'Counselling in Education' with the School of Educational Sciences at Bangor University.
1 Oct 2022 – 1 Aug 2023
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Making Research Doable: Doctoral symposium 5-8 September 2022
Making Research Doable: Doctoral symposium.
This doctoral symposium brings together Education doctoral students from Umeå University, Sweden with doctoral students from across Wales for a week-long research training event. The event is hosted by the School of Educational Sciences, Bangor University, and takes place in Bangor 5-8 September 2022.
5 Sep 2022 – 8 Sep 2022
Activity: Participation in Academic conference (Participant) - Sensory Labyrinth Theatre - Led by theatre director and mindfulness practitioner, Iwan Brioc, exploring how we engage with our senses to connect and become more aware of ones self and others.
3 Aug 2022 – 14 Sep 2022
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant)
2021
- Performance Lab Research
Organised a interdisciplinary performance lab between music and drama students to explore audio dramaturgy with practitioner and academic, Dr David Shearing from the Central School of Speech and Drama in London with in the Department of Music, Drama and Performance at Bangor University. In relation to spacial studies and mindfulness, how we can reimagine the empty space.
3 Dec 2021
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - School of Arts, Culture and Language Research Seminar Series
Black Rock: From Climbing to Performance
This presentation explored the practice-led immersive performance project Black Rock based on the first ascent of Indian Face on Snowdonia’s Clogwyn Du’r Arddu at stage@leeds in November 2017. The presentation explored the research aim for Black Rock: how can the experience of mountaineering be translated to an audience on the ground? reflecting on the discoveries provoked by site visits to Snowdon, workshops with climbers and dancers, interviews with elite and casual climbers - including the original ascensionist of Indian Face, Johnny Dawes - and audience feedback from the production. The paper also considered practice-led research design.
6 Oct 2021
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser)
2019
- Directing a short play by Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, 'Un tro' with the New Writers Scheme
Directing New Plays with the Welsh National Theatre (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru)
24 Jun 2019 – 26 Jun 2019
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Prague Quadrennial of Performance and Space 2019
Prague Quadrennial of Performance and Space 2019
13 Jun 2019 – 16 Jun 2019
Activity: Participation in Academic conference (Participant) - Visit to the Schaubuhne Theatre Berlin
Re-visitng Performance work form Director Thomas Ostermeier, following a research training attended in August 2016 in Edinburgh
26 Jan 2019
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Festival/Exhibition (Visitor) - Dramturg for the Welsh Language National Theatre (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) Mentoring new writers over a 9 month project.
Dramaturg for the Welsh Language National Theatre (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) Mentoring new writers over a 9 month project.
5 Jan 2019 – 26 Jun 2019
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director)
2018
- Dramaturg for Research and Development of new play with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Dramaturg to writer Fflur Dafydd (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) in comission with the Welsh Language National Theatre
5 Sep 2018 – 28 Mar 2019
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Workshop - Marketing in the Arts (Fran Wen Theatre Company for Children and Young People)
Carl Owen, Marketing Manager of Fran Wen Theatre Company came to work with the undergraduate students at the School of Music and Media to explore marketing in relation to artistic programming. Organised by Ffion Haf Evans.
2018
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Workshop - Marketing within an arts Venue - Pontio Arts and Innovation
Llio Gwynfor, Marketing Officer at Pontio Arts delivered a workshop with in Ffion's undergraduate curriculum to analyse and develop marketing techniques to develop new audiences at Pontio.
2018
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Workshop - Producing within an Arts Venue - Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre
Shari Llewelyn, Producer at Pontio Arts Centre, delivered a workshop in producing and fundraising within Ffion's Undergraduate Curriculum. Organised by Ffion Haf Evans.
2018
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Workshop delivered by Director of Community Engagement, Clwyd Theatre Cymru
Director of Community Engagement, Clwyd Theatre Cymru, Gwennan Mair Jones, delivered a workshop in relation to applied theatre practice. organised by Ffion Haf Evans.
2018
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser)
2017
- Tour Director of Music Theatre Wales's Opera, Y TWR
Tour Director of Music Theatre Wales's Opera, Y TWR
1 May 2017 – 30 Jun 2017
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Y Ddrama o fewn yr Opera
Yn ystod taith genedlaethol o Opera newydd Music Theatre Wales a Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, bu Ffion wrth yn trafod ar banel yn amal efo Guto Puw a Gwyneth Glyn y broses o ddatblygu opera, gan canolbwyntio yn bennaf ar y berthynas rhwng y ddrama wreiddiol (Gwenlyn Parry) a gwaith newydd y cyfansoddwr Guto Puw. Siaradwyd yn Theatr Clwyd, Canolfan y Celfyddydau yn Aberystwyth a Sherman Caerdydd.
1 May 2017 – 1 Jul 2017
Activity: Invited talk (Speaker) - Nia Lynn
Exploring Vocal Techniques in Actor's Training and Performance Making
18 Mar 2017 – 21 Mar 2017
Activity: Hosting an academic visitor (Host) - Assistant Director in Rehearsals of Music Theatre Wales's Opera, Y TWR
Assistant Director in Music Theatre Wales's Opera, Y TWR.
5 Feb 2017 – 5 May 2017
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Performance Lab Research
Ffion collaborated with Voice and Text Coach, Nia Lynn (who has worked with the RSC) to explore the voice as a point of concentration as a mode of expression in actor's training. Students as well as professional actors took part on the course.
2017
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director)
2016
- Cymru ar Lwyfan y Byd: Cyfieithu ac Addasu yn y Theatr
Ffion delivered a presentation from a professional perspective on directing with in contemporary theatre. Looking at the meaning of translation in the live rehearsal process of making theatre and communicating work to and with the audience.
19 Nov 2016
Activity: Participation in Academic conference (Speaker) - Marketing with children and young people (Carl Owen - Fran Wen)
In addition to the theatre and performance student's studies, Ffion organised for Carl Owen to come in to deliver a workshop on marketing strategy and audience development in the arts from a producing company's perspective. Carl Owen and Gwen Sion (Pontio's Marketing Manager) will also be apart of the professional panel during the students marketing assessments in the module 'Professional Practice' UXB/S 3121/2121
28 Oct 2016
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' Translating a play from a directors perspective.
Delivered a presentation on translating a play from a director's point of view during the School of Creative Studies and Media Lunchtime Research Programme.
26 Oct 2016
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker) - Marketing in the Arts (Pontio Innovation Centre)
In addition to the theatre and performance student's studies, Ffion organised for Gwen Sion, marketing manager of Pontio, to come in to deliver a workshop on contemporary marketing strategy and audience development in the arts from a venue's perspective.
21 Oct 2016
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Sian Summers
Sian Summers (University of South Wales) was invited to deliver workshops on scriptwriting, absurd theatre and professional practice in collaboration with the Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol and the School of Welsh, Bangor University.
A series of 4 workshops were produced in collaboration with Sian Summers to allow the opportunity for theatre and performance students and the School of Creative Studies and Media and The School of Welsh to gain additional experience in the field.
12 Oct 2016 – 14 Oct 2016
Activity: Hosting an academic visitor (Host) - Chaired the post-show discussion on 'Merch yr Eog' during the Welsh National theatre's touring production. (Theatr Gendlaethol Cymru) The discussion was held at Pontio on the main stage in Theatr Bryn Terfel after the show.
Questioning the director and actors rehearsal methods involved in making the show as well as the international collaboration that was produced between Brittany and Wales during the creative process.
11 Oct 2016
Links:
Activity: Types of External academic engagement - Invited talk (Chair) - Eight-week Mindfulness Course MBSR
Eight-week Mindfulness Course MBSR: MBSR Mindfulness Course
5 Sep 2016 – 27 Nov 2016
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Directing Workshop with World Renowned Theatre Director, Thomas Ostermeier
As part of an exclusive opportunity, Ffion was selected as one of 12 UK theatre directors to take part in this event. Research practice was investigated in European Directing Methodologies, looking at how we communicate theatre with our audiences in contemporary context.
25 Aug 2016 – 27 Aug 2016
Links:
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Judge for the Best Dramatist Award at the Wales National Eisteddfod 2016 (Beirniad Y Fedal Ddrama yn Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru 2016)
During the annual National Eisteddfod (a cultural festival that celebrates the best of Welsh talent) Ffion was selected as one of 3 judges to award this prestigious medal. The winning play will be in development to be staged at the next National Eisteddfod in 2017.
13 Aug 2016
Links:
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Festival/Exhibition (Contributor) - Creative Agent with the Arts Council of Wales Lead Creative School Programme
The Arts Council of Wales have developed a new programme with the Welsh Government to implement a strategy to employ more creativity in education and to promote creative learning amongst teachers and learners. Ffion is working in collaboration with Ysgol Glan Clwyd and Ysgol Dolbadarn, Llanberis over a period of 2 years to allow opportunity for senior management and teachers to gain development in creative learning CPD as well as employing creative practitioners to work along side teachers and the learners to investigate new ways of working with in the school environment.
1 Jun 2016 – 20 Jul 2018
Links:
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Work on advisory panels for social community and cultural engagement (Advisor) - Pre Show Discussion with the public on the directing processes Ffion Haf undertook on the staging of 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' (Mrs Reynolds and the Ruffian) with the Welsh National Theatre (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru).
Audiences were invited to discuss and question Ffion Haf's directorial processes. The discussion took place at Theatr Clwyd, Mold and was Chaired by the actor, Huw Garmon.
11 May 2016
Activity: Types of External academic engagement - Invited talk (Speaker) - Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' (translated by Meic Povey, written by Gary Owen) with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' (translated by Meic Povey, written by Gary Owen) with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
2016 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)
2015
- Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production for families with young children 'Saer y Ser' with Fran Wen Theatre Company
Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production for families with young children 'Saer y Ser' with Fran Wen Theatre Company
1 Oct 2015 – 20 Dec 2015
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker) - Post Show discussion with the cast and crew of the production directed by Ffion Haf 'Drych' (Mirror) written by Llyr Titus that was on a National tour across Wales.
Audiences were invited to question and discuss the rehearsal process form the actor's, director and playwrights perspective. The discussion was hosted at Neuadd Dwyfor Pwllheli and Chaired by Marketing Manager, Carl Owen, of theatre company, Fran Wen.
16 Sep 2015
Activity: Types of External academic engagement - Invited talk (Speaker) - Directing and Leading a Research and Development of a new Production 'Drych' for Cwmni'r Fran Wen
Directing and Leading a Research and Development of a new Production 'Drych' for Cwmni'r Fran Wen
11 May 2015 – 16 May 2015
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production 'Drych' with Fran Wen Theatre Company (won best Welsh Language Play)
Directing Rehearsals of new national touring production 'Drych' with Fran Wen Theatre Company (won best Welsh Language Play)
2015 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Dramaturg to Meic Povey on translating 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' written by Gary Owen
Dramaturg to Meic Povey on translating 'Mrs Reynolds a'r Cena Bach' written by Gary Owen
2015 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director)
2014
- Directing and Leading a Research and Development of a new Production 'Saer y Ser' for Cwmni'r Fran Wen
Directing and Leading a Research and Development of a new Production 'Saer y Ser' for Cwmni'r Fran Wen
8 Dec 2014 – 13 Dec 2014
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Associate Director (Cyfarwyddwr Cyswllt) Fran Wen Theatre Company, Supporting the development of the Artistic Programme and Directing National Touring Productions
Supported the artistic director of the theatre for children and young people's company, programming productions, directing national touring productions, contributing to the companies 5 year business investment plan with the Arts Council of Wales, re-branding the companies identity, supporting the development of a new website and apart of the interview panel for recruiting new staff.
1 Sep 2014 – 1 Jan 2016
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Work on advisory panels for social community and cultural engagement (Contributor) - Dim Diolch (No Thanks) Performance at the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Directed a play that was to represent the Welsh Language at the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Funded by Wales Arts International and Fran Wen.
15 Aug 2014 – 21 Aug 2014
Links:
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Festival/Exhibition (Contributor) - Advised and Supported the new Community Director of Fran Wen on a Mental Health Arts Project in Blaenau Ffestiniog 'Fi di Fi'
Advised and Supported the new Community Director of Fran Wen on a Mental Health Arts Project in Blaenau Ffestiniog 'Fi di Fi'
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Member of programme committee) - Attended the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival and directed a production funded by Arts International Wales
Attended the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival and directed a production funded by Arts Wales International
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Chwarel - Directed an Immersive, multimedia production to open the New Neuadd Ogwen of Bethesda with 40 local young people. Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
Chwarel - Directed an Immersive, multimedia production to open the New Neuadd Ogwen of Bethesda with 40 local young people. Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Delivering workshops and organising an immersive theatre production with 40 young people in North West Wales with Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen) 'Project Name: Chwarel
Delivering workshops and organising an immersive theatre production with 40 young people in North West Wales with Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen) 'Project Name: Chwarel
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Directed short plays in Galeri Caernarfon from the Script i Lwyfan Programme Ffion created for Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen.
Directed short plays in Galeri Caernarfon from the Script i Lwyfan Programme Ffion created for Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen.
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Directing rehearsals and workshops with over 80 community members and professional actors on the production of 'Chwalfa' (first development in 2014) Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Directing rehearsals and workshops with over 80 community members and professional actors on the production of 'Chwalfa' (first development in 2014) Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Training with International Theatre Maker 'Andy Manley' on Devising Theatre with and for young children
Training with International Theatre Maker 'Andy Manley' on Devising Theatre with and for young children
2014 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant)
2013
- World Stage Design Festival 2013
Directed a Production that was staged at the World Stage Design Festival
22 Sep 2013 – 25 Sep 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic conference (Speaker) - Theatre, History and Politics
Title of Conference (Theatre, History and Politics) held at the Atrium (Cardiff) University of South Wales
25 Apr 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic conference (Invited speaker) - Mike Alfreds - Different Every Night
From Mike Alfred's book (Different Every Night) we looked at the building of a world when staging a play. How to communicate the layers of reality and time with in a play to live audiences and embed this process into the actors development.
19 Mar 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Michael Chekov - Towards the Actor
Looking at the techniques of Michael Chekov to explore the characters development on stage. From and abstract and literal point of view to question layering in performance, totality and form.
26 Jan 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Creator of New Writing Programme for young people 'Sgript i Lwyfan'
Whilst developing the young people's theatre company (Brain) within Fran Wen theatre company, Ffion created a new national programme where young people developed their writing with experienced writing mentors, such as Aled Jones Williams, and had the opportunity to work with professional directors and actors to share work with public audiences. The programme has developed since 2013 and still growing in success.
1 Jan 2013 – 1 Jan 2015
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Work on advisory panels for social community and cultural engagement (Organiser) - Assitant Director on a Site Specific, Multi Media Production (Blodeuwedd, directed by Arwel Gruffydd) Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Assitant Director on a Site Specific, Multi Media Production (Blodeuwedd, directed by Arwel Gruffydd) Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
2013 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Bocsys - Directed a multimedia, immersive production in Fran Wen's building with over 30 young people from North Wales devising and performing. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen.
Bocsys - Directed a multimedia, immersive production in Fran Wen's building with over 30 young people from North Wales devising and performing. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen.
2013 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Co-dramaturg on the adaptation of T H Rowlands Novel 'Chwalfa' Stage Adaption by Gareth Miles for Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
Co-dramaturg on the adaptation of T H Rowlands Novel 'Chwalfa' Stage Adaption by Gareth Miles for Theatr Genedlaethol Cymri
2013 – 2014
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Delivered Workshops and rehearsals on narrative and performance storytelling with over 30 young people in North Wales. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen
Delivered Workshops and rehearsals on narrative and performance storytelling with over 30 young people in North Wales. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen
2013 – 2014
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Directing Reharsals of new play by Meic Povey for the World Stage design Festival 'Rhwng Dau Fyd' 'Man Gwyn Man Draw'
Directing Reharsals of new play by Meic Povey for the World Stage design Festival 'Rhwng Dau Fyd' 'Man Gwyn Man Draw'
2013 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Dramaturg of new play by Meic Povey for the World Stage design Festival 'Rhwng Dau Fyd' 'Man Gwyn Man Draw'
Dramaturg of new play by Meic Povey for the World Stage design Festival 'Rhwng Dau Fyd' 'Man Gwyn Man Draw'
2013 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Gwyn dy Fyd - Directed an Site Specific Production in Hendre's Farm (near Bangor) based on oral storytelling and mythology. Devised by over 30 young people. Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
Gwyn dy Fyd - Directed an Site Specific Production in Hendre's Farm (near Bangor) based on oral storytelling and mythology. Devised by over 30 young people. Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
2013 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director)
2012
- Developed a series of CPD sessions for lecturers on Public Speaking with Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol
After sharing a workshop at the Post Graduate Certificate of Higher Education Training in 2012 on Public Speaking, Ffion was invited by the Welsh National College to develop a series of workshops that provided CPD for lecturers and post graduate students to engage in a more confident manner with peers. She also delivered a workshop at the Millennium Centre in Cardiff with PhD students to further their individual development.
13 Feb 2012 – 30 Apr 2015
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Invited speaker) - Project Managed a New Training and Development 4 year project with Theatre Company Fran Wen - working with young children out of training, employment and or/ education - Pontio'r Bwlch
Whilst working as project manager for theatre company Fran Wen, Ffion led a ESF funded project to deliver and manage outreach performance and digital media projects with in educational units and communities within deprived areas. Since its development, Fran Wen now has a permanent studio in digital media within their home in Menai Bridge where young people that are out of training, education and employment can develop and work professionally within the creative industries.
1 Jan 2012 – 1 Sep 2014
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Work on advisory panels for social community and cultural engagement (Organiser) - Bocsys - Designed and delivered workshops on multimedia, immersive production with over 30 young people across North Wales. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen
Bocsys - Designed and delivered workshops on multimedia, immersive production with over 30 young people across North Wales. Brain Theatre Company, Fran Wen
2012 – 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser) - Co-directed and ran workshops with over 100 young people in Eryri Secondary Schools for Urdd Gobaith Cymru Musical 'Sbri' (Fran Wen)
Co-directed and ran workshops with over 100 young people in Eryri Secondary Schools for Urdd Gobaith Cymru Musical 'Sbri' (Fran Wen)
2012 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director) - Contact Theatre Manchester - working with young people out of training, education and/or employment
Contact Theatre Manchester - working with young people out of training, education and/or employment
2012 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Selected as one of 5 Directors to be trained by Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh National Theatre Company) for a year.
Selected as one of 5 Directors to be trained by Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh National Theatre Company) for a year.
2012 – 2013
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Participant) - Tasa Ti'n Sefyll yn Fama Production - Directed a Community Production with a group of 20 young people with Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
Tasa Ti'n Sefyll yn Fama Production - Directed a Community Production with a group of 20 young people with Brain Theatre Company (Fran Wen)
2012 →
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Director)
2011
- Establishing a New Young People's Theatre (BRAIN) for Fran Wen Theatre Company (Project Manager and Director)
As the theatre company was shifting from a theatre in education company into a community theatre, Ffion established a young people's company and project managed its first 3 years of development. Ensuring opportunities for young people aged 11-25 years old to develop their own work and voices in performance, digital media and new writing. The Brain company still drives forward in success among young people in the North West Wales area.
1 Sep 2011 – 1 Sep 2014
Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Work on advisory panels for social community and cultural engagement (Organiser) - Tasa Ti'n Sefyll yn Fama - Delivered weekly workshops over a period of 4 months with young people in secondary schools on writing new short play and production
Tasa Ti'n Sefyll yn Fama - Delivered weekly workshops over a period of 4 months with young people in secondary schools on writing new short play and production
2011 – 2012
Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Organiser)
Other Grants and Projects
Grants:
- HEFCW Higher Education Investment and Recovery (HEIR) for digital learning, Department of Music, Drama and Performance (£10,000)
- Small Grant ‘Arts Council of Wales’ Exploring a new Performance Lab. (£5000)
- National Touring Production Grant ‘Saer y Sêr’ (Star Maker), Frân Wen, Arts Council of Wales, (£55,000)
- Research and Development ‘Saer y Sêr’ (Star Maker), Frân Wen, Arts Council of Wales, 2014–15 (£11,000)
- Production Support Grant to stage at the International Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Frân Wen, Wales Arts International, (£12,000)
- Pontio’r Bwlch (Bridging the Gap), Frân Wen, ESF European Funded Grant, (£62,000)
- CEWN Project, Bangor University, Cwmni Da, Beaumaris Gaol, Pilot Project, (£3,000)
- Training and Development, Theatre Directing, Arts Council of Wales, (£2,000)
- BRAIN, Frân Wen, Arts Council of Wales, Large Project Grant (£30,000)
- BRAIN, Frân Wen, Arts Council of Wales, Large Project Grant 2012–2013 (£30,000)
- BRAIN, Frân Wen, Arts Council of Wales, Large Project Grant (£30,000)
Awards, Roles and Nominations:
- Best Female Performance (Siw Hughes) Mrs Reynolds a’r Cena Bach. Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, Wales Theatre Awards.
- Nomination for Best Male Performance (Sion Emyr) and Best Production. Mrs Reynolds a’r Cena Bach. Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, Wales Theatre Awards.
- Judge at the National Eisteddfod (New Writing Award ‘Y Fedal Ddrama’)
- Selected as one of 12 Director’s across the UK to take part in researching European directing methodology with the World Renowned German Director, Thomas Ostermeier. Organised by Living Pictures, Goethe-Institut Glasgow and The National Theatre of Scotland.
- Bursary from ‘National Theatre Wales’ to attend the directing research with Thomas Ostermeier (Schaubühne Theatre Berlin).
- ‘Winner for Best Welsh Language Dramatist’ (Llyr Titus) Fran Wen. Wales Theatre Awards.
- Nomination for best male performance (Bryn Fôn) and best female performance (Gwenno Hodgkins) Drych (Mirror). Wales Theatre Awards.
- Nomination for best production for young people and best male performance (Carwyn Jones). Dim Diolch by Fran Wen. Wales Theatre Awards.
- Selected as one of 5 Director’s across Wales to take part on a one year professional training and development with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh Language National Theatre), Sherman Cymru and Living Pictures.
- ‘Dim Diolch’ (No Thanks) by Iola Ynyr. Nomination for best production for young people. Wales Theatre Awards.
- ‘Dim Diolch’ (No Thanks) by Iola Ynyr. Nomination for the best actor ‘Carwyn Jones’ Wales Theatre Awards.
- Selected as one of 5 Director’s across Wales to take part on a one year professional training and development with Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh Language National Theatre), Sherman Cymru and Living Pictures.
Other Information
As well as overseeing the curriculum development of the Drama programme here at the School of Arts, Culture and Language, Ffion is responsible for teaching the following modules:
Year 1
- Theatre Making WXM 1120
- Dyfeisio Theatr WXC 1120
- Introduction to Playwriting WXS 1000
- Cyflwyniad i Ysgrifennu Drama WXC 1000
Year 2 and 3
- Directing and Dramaturgy WXS 2000, WXS 3000
- Cyfarwyddo WXC 2000, WXC 3000
- Contemporary Theatre Practice WXM 2400, WXM 3400
- Ymarfer Theatr Gyfoes WXC 2400, WXM 3400
- Professional Practice UXS 2123, UXS 3123
- Ymarfer Proffesiynol UXB 2123, UXB 3123
- Theatre and the Self UXS 2121, UXS 3122
- Theatr a'r Hunain UXB 2121, UXB 3122
Dissertation Supervision (UXB 3900 and UXB 3901):
Ffion has supervised students extensively in creative practice as well as thoeretical research. Recently working with students in the field of acting, directing, devising, scriptwriting, screenwriting, film, media and education.
Ffion is a fluent Welsh Speaker and can deliver personal tutorials as well as academic supervision through the Medium of both English and the Welsh Language.
External Engagement and Impact
Ffion’s professional development in the theatre industry and educational sector works hand in hand with her research interests. Public engagement and collaborating with theatre industry and creative industry professionals, senior management and teachers in education and children and young people in the community are all core individuals that Ffion has worked with on a regular basis over the years. Her research interest in developing contemporary work in the theatre and developing creative communities leads her to naturally develop creative practice that is rooted amongst people.
Since 2009 she has worked extensively with several external organisations and partners, including local, national and international theatre companies, performance venues, national and international performance festivals and primary, secondary and further education establishments and units, charities and publically funded organisations. She has also toured performance work locally and nationally on a regular basis to small, mid-scale and large performance venues, such as Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff and Clwyd Theatre (Mold) and has organised and delivered several community theatre projects, established new artistic programmes, creative branches with in local companies and project managed extensively across the sector on a national scale. Her work has been recognised annually over the last 4 years at the Wales Theatre Awards and in relation to the Arts Council Wales Portfolio.
External organisations:
Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh Language National Theatre), Fran Wen, National Theatre Wales, Sherman Cymru, Living Pictures, Arad Goch, National Theatre Scotland, Goethe Institute Glasgow, Schaubuhne Theatre Berlin, Galeri Caernarfon, Pontio, Arts Council Wales, Wales Arts International, Cwmni Da, Beaumaris Gaol, International Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Family Arts Festival, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, National Eisteddfod, Reach the Hights (ESF Funding), Ysgol Dolbadarn Llanberis, Ysgol Glan Clwyd, Llanfairfechan Primary School, Aberdaron Primary School (Crud y Werin), Lottery, Community Firsts, Ysgol y Moelwyn (Blaenau Ffestiniog), Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy Council, World Stage Design.
- New Writing Mentor/Dramaturg for Theatre Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh National Theatre Company)
- Creative Agent – Arts Council of Wales (Consulting and supporting senior management and teacher’s professional development creativity in education. Brining learners, teachers and creative practitioners together to co-design curriculum activity.)
- Associate Director, Frân Wen Theatre Company (Supporting the Companies artistic programme; directing two national touring productions; a core involvement in designing the Companies Arts Council of Wales’s investment plan; supporting the community engagement officer’s development with ‘BRAIN’ (young people's company); a part of the interviewing panel for a new Marketing Manager; A part of the core companies process of re-branding, developing a new website and marketing material; investigating new ideas with the companies architecture to explore a new home for the companies long term future.)
- Devising with the young (Developing production material for young children aged 3-7 years old in response to the Internationally renowned theatre maker and actor ‘Andy Manley’ input, exploring how can we devise with and for young children – ensuring that the child’s voice is integral to the creative development of work into production?)
- New Writing Programme ‘Sgript i Lwyfan’ (Script to Stage) Frân Wen in collaboration with Galeri Caernarfon (Ffion created and designed the programme and then went on to developed it with one of Wales’s leading dramatists, Aled Jones Williams. The Programme is designed for young people 14–25 old to develop their work with professional actors and directors and gain insight and experience into the professional industry for a long term purpose. Young playwright, Llŷr Titus (Department of Welsh and Celtic Studies, Bangor University) won an award for the ‘Best Welsh Language Playwright’ for his play ‘Drych’ (Mirror) at the Wales Theatre Awards, that was developed with in this national programme.
- Established and Project Managed a new young people’s creative branch called, ‘BRAIN’, Frân Wen: (Devising, New Writing, The Digital, The Community, Nurturing and Encouraging the young people’s voice creatively (11–25 years old). When the company evolved from a ‘Theatre in Education’ Structure to a ‘Theatre for children and young people’ identity, Frân Wen wanted the young person’s voice to be a more integral part to the Companies overall direction srategically and artistically. Ffion joined the Company during this transition stage and created a new structure for the new participatory branch called ‘BRAIN’. Ffion project managed and piloted projects along the way to evaluate how the progression of the branch was going to grow in the future. Gwennan Mair took on the role of Engagement officer during 2014–2016 and the work developed by ‘BRAIN’ has grown from strength to strength. The Young People’s voice is now right at the heart of the Companies future progression.
- Pontio’r Bwlch (Bridging the Gap) (Multidisciplinary programme for young people not in education, training or employment and/or acknowledged as living with in a recognised disadvantaged area) With in BRAIN’s aims and objectives, Ffion project managed a programme of delivery with 5 communities of practice for young people to communicate through the arts and the digital – to channel individuals wellbeing and educational/social development and support. The programme was recognised as an ‘Inspiring Programme’ by the Arts Council of Wales and some of the individuals that took part shared their story and experience during the Arts Council of Wales annual conference in Cardiff, 2013. Since then, Frân Wen has gone on to establish a permanent digital STIWDIO with in the Companies home. The STIWDIO (Studio) develops individuals entrepreneurial skills on a more 1–1 basis , in collaboration with professional companies in the world of business, education, tourism..developing material for marketing and design purposes through film, gaming, app development, composing and graphic design development.
- Devising within the community, BRAIN – Cwmni’r Frân Wen (Projects and Productions including Chwarel (Quarry), Bocsys (Boxes), Gwyn dy Fyd, Tasa ti’n sefyll yn Fama). Ffion designed and developed a 6 month devising programme for young people to experience a multidisciplinary approach to producing performance and encouraged site specific activity. Since then the programme has gone on to work as a three week intense production during the summer term and SBECTOL and AR Y STRYD was created in 2015 a 2016 by Gwennan Mair.
- Accreditation in The Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru (Ffion produced new OCN Modules to measure young people’s development in creative activity that could allow young people to be accredited as they participated in community work).
Workshops, Presentations and Papers in Conferences and Public Presentations and Lectures:
- Tour Director of ‘Y Tŵr’ (Music Theatre Wales and Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) presenting talks on ‘drama and the opera’ during pre and post-performance talks across performance venues, such as Clwyd Theatre Cymru, Sherman Cymru, Aberystwyth Arts Centre across Wales
- Organised a new External Performance Lab with the School of Creative Studies and Media with professional actors, voice/text coach and students to explore contemporary performance practice. Arts Council of Wales.
- ‘Directing in the Theatre’ Evening at Bangor University’s Arts and Humanities College to celebrate and share research (presenting)
- Conference ‘Cymru ar Lwyfan y Byd’ (Wales on the World’s Stage) Aberystwyth University in partnership with Bangor University (School of Welsh) (presenting)
- ‘The Process of Translating from a Director’s Perspective’ School of Creative and Studies Research Programme, Bangor University (presenting)
- Developing Creativity in Education (Designed and delivered tailored workshops during teachers HMS afternoon to explore the role of creativity in their teaching delivery) Glan Clwyd Secondary School and Dolbadarn’s Primary School in Llanberis took part. Arts Council of Wales.
- Wrote a Blog on behalf of National Theatre Wales to feature in the Community Page Website to share the directing research of ‘Thomas Ostermeier’
- Judge at the National Eisteddfod ‘New Writing’ (Y Fedal Ddrama)
- ‘Merch yr Eog’ Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh Language National Theatre) (Chaired a post-show discussion with the Director and cast at Pontio’s ‘Bryn Terfel Theatre’) Bangor University
- Directing ‘Mrs Reynolds a’r Cena Bach’ (Mrs Reynolds and the Ruffian) Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru (Welsh Language National Theatre) (pre-show discussion with the audience – chaired by the actor Huw Garmon) Clwyd Theatre Cymru
- Staging ‘Drych’ (Mirror) Frân Wen (post-show discussion with the audience Neuadd Dwyfor Pwllheli)
- Research and Development on the Play ‘Drych’ (Mirror) Frân Wen (Planning and implementing a week long research process with actors, author, composer, set designer and lighting designer)
- Devising Saer y Sêr (Star Maker)– Llanfairfechan Primary School (Designing and co-delivering research workshops with the creative members of the cast and crew to explore the young children’s ideas into development for the production’s national tour) Exploring with the children as well as the teacher’s and the families input.
- Fi di Fi (I am Me) – (Pilot Project) On Mental Health with Secondary School, Ysgol y Moelwyn, Blaenau Ffestiniog (Advising and supporting the engagement officer and the Company on the development of the project) Frân Wen.
- Lectures and workshops on ‘Public Speaking’ Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol (Welsh National College) (tailored for lecturers, postgraduate students (M.A. and PhD)
- Conference ‘Theatr, Hanes a Gwleidyddiaeth’ (Theatre, History and Politics) (University of South Wales, The Atrium) Apart of the discussion panel.
Links:
Opera ‘Y Twr’ (The Tower) Music Theatre Wales/Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Lp6uPY05wg
Examples of work directed by Ffion Haf in production:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMzKz7pP7L0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNj2SlgMhpI
An introduction to the New Writing Programme ‘Sgript i Lwyfan’ (Script to Stage) Ffion created and developed with Aled Jones Williams:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8Lpdt7Veps
Example of the community work developed in BRAIN (young people's theatre company), (Gwennan Mair) Frân Wen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGctSuaHWqQ