Amy Forrest plays Ailis in the world première of Bethan Marlow’s Mold Riots, which will see a community and professional cast bring one of Wales’ forgotten dark days to life on the streets of Mold in a large-scale promenade production with locations including Mold Town Council Chamber, Mold cattle market and St Mary’s Church.
Katie Posner directs Gethin Alderman (Robat), Lauren Fitzpatrick (Margaret), Amy Forrest (Ailis), and Kai Owen (David), alongside a community cast of over 100 from ages 7 to 87, including 30 children.
Mold Riots runs 21st to 26th October 2019. Tickets are on sale here.
You’re appearing in Mold Riots on the streets of Mold, what can you tell us about it?
Mold Riots is an immersive, atmospheric and highly energetic piece of theatre set in 1869 when this iconic society changing event took place. The community are the very heart of this piece and I am delighted to be a part of its journey.
How would you describe your character?
Ailis Jones is an Irish mother and wife fighting for the miner’s rights. She is a proud woman, a survivor, feisty, hardworking and uncompromising and she will do anything to protect her family.
What are the challenges of performing in such a large-scale promenade production?
For the cast it is to maintain high energy and drive throughout the production which filters through the audience and takes them with us. However, I would say the technical team and crew have the biggest challenge as timing is paramount.
What do you think this play means to the people of Mold?
Nothing has ever been attempted at this scale by Theatr Clwyd before. It is ambitious and brilliant, and I truly believe that the people of Mold will see this as an emotive reminder of their heritage and as a memorable experience.
Tell us how the community is getting involved?
The community are the soul of Mold Riots. More than 95% of the cast are from the community some of which have never set foot on a stage. Watching their confidence grow has been very humbling. From making the coal to knitting the shawls and even writing their own dialogue the community are very much the core of this piece.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Mold Riots?
Wrap up warm, wear sensible shoes you will be exposed to the elements! Most importantly be prepared to re-live the welsh history of Mold Riots 150 years after it happened.
