Bringing the legend of Arianrhod from the depths of the Mabinogi to the modern day.
In an innovative feat of storytelling, the OLION trilogy unfolds through a live theatre show, a day-long event across the streets of Bangor, and a short film.
Join us this September as we journey from the depths of the sea to the heights of freedom.
Part I: Arianrhod
A live theatre show that reimagines the drowning of Caer Arianrhod.
The fortress is alive with hedonism, sex and spirituality as Arianrhod and her tribe of runaways prepare for a solar eclipse that promises to leave the pain of war behind and give way to a new age of light. But in that fateful moment of complete darkness when the moon covers the sun, they endure unspeakable violence and betrayal.
As Arianrhod continues to resist the demands of her ruling family, she triggers a devastating supernatural storm that sinks her fortress to the depths of the ocean.
Thousands of years later and her descendants are still hiding in fear on the ocean’s bed. Will they ever be tempted to leave and experience the forbidden land above for themselves?
Fusing live theatre, dance and music, this is a fierce story of one fateful night that reverberates through generations.
Part II: The Underworld
As the good times flow, Arianrhod’s descendants emerge from the water. Will they be welcomed with open arms or will their fears of what humanity is capable of become a reality?
Scenes will unfold throughout the day across Bangor as dramatic confrontations and a thrilling rescue transforms the festival into a celebration of difference, the acceptance of grief and the triumph of joy.
This is a free event. Booking is required.
Part III: The Mother
The epilogue.
A short film using real footage from part I and II offers an intimate insight into the life of an ordinary family from Bangor.
But what happens when a psychedelic trip transforms the suburb of Hirael into the fantasy world of Caer Arianrhod?
Tickets
Tickets will be on-sale 18 July 2024.
In association with Pontio, Bangor with the support Storiel.
Frân Wen receives core funding from Arts Council of Wales to support its programme.
Olion, which is a 15 month programme of activities is also supported by Cyngor Gwynedd. The project has received £252,911 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
