Here is a Welsh-language theatrical rarity: a smash hit. Adapted from the second branch of the medieval Mabinogi, this new musical is ambitious in scale and has already sold out its short tour.
Dadeni directly translates as rebirth; a restorative cauldron is a significant part of the legend but the title also alludes to the princess Branwen’s reinvention as a figure with contemporary sensibilities. She is a savvy, fearless political operator and becomes the master of her own narrative. Of her own volition, Branwen marries Matholwch, the Irish king, before his horses are mutilated by Nish, Branwen’s sister; betrayal, chaos and war ensues. It remains a tragedy, but don’t cry for her, Anglesey.
