Gwthio’r Ffiniau
In 2024, Bethan received a Research and Development grant from the Arts Council of Wales to explore the boundaries of Welsh folk music and her Welsh identity from a female perspective. In Gwthio’r Ffiniau (Pushing the boundaries), Bethan worked at YMa Pontypridd with choreographer and dancer, Jên Angharad, and musicians Lucy Rivers and Meg Cox to explore these themes - taking Bethan back to her theatrical roots. The project also explored creative ways of playing the harp. The research piece was performed at the National Eisteddfod Pontypridd in 2024 to a packed audience.
Brethyn
In 2026 Bethan received a second Research and Development grant from the Arts Council of Wales to develop the themes of Cultural Identity further. The project ‘Brethyn’ (Welsh flannel) is an exploration of the patterns that are carried down through generations and Welsh culture. Seen through a neurodiverse lens, it explores Bethan’s story and connection to Welsh music and culture. The piece was directed by Lucy Rivers, with musicians Meg Cox, Misha Jardine, Sam Humphries, Choreographer/Dancer Aleksandra Nikolajev Jones, and clog dance choreographed by Huw Williams.
Y Gadair
Y Gadair (The Chair) is a dance theatre piece by Rhys Miles Thomas. It explores the most prestigious ceremony at the National Eisteddfod, The Chairing of The Bard, and how that prestigious prize, The Chair, is viewed in society. It contrasts another type of chair - the wheelchair, which is sidelined and shunned. With Marc Rees, Jên Angharad and Bethan Nia providing live harp and effects.
