When Dynolwaith emerged as the story of a trans man, Frân Wen was determined not just to tell a story about a trans experience, but to ensure that trans voices and perspectives were embedded throughout the creative process.

Several members of the creative and production team brought lived experience of being trans, shaping the work with authenticity, honesty and care from the inside out.

I have a degree in theatre, film and creative writing, but until recently I hadn’t had many opportunities to fully use those skills. Over the last few years I’ve worked as a freelancer, writing and directing small-scale projects including a monologue for Mas ar y Maes at Eisteddfod Rhondda Cynon Taf 2024, and a chamber opera as part of Tuag Opera. Somewhere along the way, Frân Wen and Sherman Theatre noticed my work, and we met up to discuss the role of Assistant Director on Dynolwaith - an opportunity that has meant a great deal to me.

A Rare and Important Opportunity

Opportunities like this are incredibly important for early-career directors and artists. Not only was this a chance to develop my craft, but it was also a chance to work within a company that prioritises representation in a real, practical way - not as a slogan, but through its creative decisions. To collaborate with Frân Wen and learn from such an experienced and thoughtful team has been invaluable.

Life as Assistant Director

My role as Assistant Director changed week to week, sometimes day to day - and that variety was one of the most exciting parts of the job. During Dynolwaith I had the chance to:

• Develop skills in blocking and staging

• Contribute to script edits and dramaturgy

• Support actors in developing character, voice and intention

• Take part in set design discussions

• Explore music, rhythm and sound in storytelling

• Engage with lighting decisions

I also gained insight into roles I hadn’t worked alongside before, like the dramaturge and Deputy Stage Manager (DSM).

Learning Through Collaboration

Working alongside Leo, Gethin and the rest of the creative team taught me how collaborative theatre really is. Every idea mattered. Every voice was respectfully heard. Even when not every contribution made it into the final show, the process made space for exploration and conversation. I learned how to give clear, constructive direction; how to hold a rehearsal room with care; and how to work to a tight schedule without losing creativity or humanity.

The Power of Story

Being part of Dynolwaith has reminded me why theatre matters so deeply. Storytelling is not just entertainment, it’s a connection. Sharing one person’s powerful, honest story with humour and humanity can reach audiences in ways that create change, understanding and emotional resonance. For some people, Dynolwaith reflected their own lives. For others, it opened a door to empathy they may never have otherwise encountered.

This process has made me think differently about the kind of work I want to make in future - the voices I want to lift, and the stories I want to help bring to the stage. Writing and storytelling have always been important to me, but Dynolwaith has made that purpose feel clearer than ever.

What’s Next?

Right now, I’m working on my second novel, but I can already feel a new idea beginning to take shape… a story that I hope will find its way onto a stage one day, whether that journey begins as a writer, an assistant director or even a director!

Working with Frân Wen has been inspiring, and I’m certain this won’t be the last time our paths cross.

Thank you to everyone involved. For the trust, the collaboration, and the unforgettable experience.