A WELSH language show will take centre stage at a prestigious showcase for musical theatre for the very first time later this year.

Y Tylwyth, the Conwy County National Eisteddfod opening production, has been chosen to be showcased amongst around 35 presentations of new shows, masterclasses, panel discussions and networking opportunities as part of the BEAM 2020 festival, held in Northampton at the end of March.

Director Angharad Lee said: “Being included in the BEAM line-up is a great honour, and we’re looking forward to taking such a special production to a new and influential audience in the musical theatre world.

"It’s also a great honour that Y Tylwyth is the first Welsh language production to be selected and we are delighted to be flying the flag for the Welsh language in such a respected event.”

BEAM brings directors, producers, composers, writers and supporters of musical theatre together, providing excellent opportunities for the showcased productions to attract new partners, funders, venues and supporters.

The showcase will benefit the National Eisteddfod as the festival continues to develop ambitious and high-quality productions, creating new and exciting opportunities for original and shows following the Eisteddfod itself.

Elen Elis, the Eisteddfod’s artistic director, added: "We’ve been discussing how we can further expand the appeal of our shows and create new opportunities to reach wider audiences.

"The BEAM showcase will help us to do this, and is a chance for us to create new contacts and discuss exciting possibilities with the sector when looking to the future.

“Y Tylwyth was a magical and totally original production, and we warmly congratulate everyone involved in the project for the success at the Eisteddfod and for this opportunity.

"We look forward to discussing Y Tylwyth and other developments with various delegates at BEAM, hoping we’ll see many more opportunities for Welsh language productions to shine in the future.”

Y Tylwyth was created by Gwyneth Glyn, Twm Morys and Myrddin ap Dafydd, with Osian Huw Williams as the musical director.

The show was directed by Angharad Lee and the production was inspired by Welsh fairies and folk legends.

This was the first time for the National Eisteddfod to venture to the world of contemporary circus, teaming up with Pontio Bangor University and Irish Contemporary Circus troupe, Fidget Feet.