Gwen the polar bear visits the Memo

Sunday, 11 January 2026 09:50

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

A new Welsh-language children's play tackling climate change will visit the Memo Arts Centre in Barry next month.

Gwen yr Arth Wen ('Gwen the Polar Bear') combines puppetry, movement and music to tell the story of an anxious polar bear who wakes up on a broken icecap hundreds of miles away from her family.

Performed by Isabella Colby Browne and directed by Elan Issac, the show - based on an original idea for radio - is described as a thought-provoking but light hearted exploration of the importance of home and conidence.

Playwright Chris Harris said: "Climate change can be a frightening concept for children, who may feel helpless when faced with the headlines."

"Gwen yr Arth Wen emphasises the positive outcomes of its resolution if we all work together to combat it. It seems like a scary obstacle, but it can be done."

The show, aimed at children over the age of 6 and their families, is performed in Welsh, but non-Welsh speakers and Welsh learners will be able to follow Gwen's journey through the arctic sea as they finds her way home - and her courage.

The tour, taking in ten dates and venues across South Wales, begins at The Riverfront in Newport on Saturday 14th February, before arriving in Barry on Wednesday 25th February with two shows at 11am and 1.45pm.

Gwen yr Arth Wen is produced by Glesni-Price Jones with the support of The Riverfront, where rehearsals are taking place, along with Theatr Cymru and Climate Cymru, who have created a bespoke education pack for schools to accompany the show.

Do you have a story to share? Email News@broradio.fm 

 

More from Bro Radio Newsroom

More from Bro Radio

Vale Weather

  • Sun

    12°C

  • Mon

    11°C

  • Tue

    10°C

  • Wed

    8°C

  • Thu

    8°C

Local events

Radio
Online
App
Smart Speaker