Royal Welsh College’s NEW ’25 Festival Returns to London’s Young Vic with Four World Premiere Plays

LONDON – The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) is set to make a significant return to the heart of the London theatre scene, presenting its annual festival of new writing, NEW ’25, at the Young Vic’s prestigious Maria Theatre. Scheduled to run from June 11 to 21, 2025, the festival will showcase four distinct world premiere plays, developed through a unique collaboration between professional playwrights, directors, and the graduating students of the RWCMD’s renowned Richard Burton Company.

About NEW ’25

Established in 2014, the NEW initiative has become a vital platform for fostering contemporary theatrical voices. Over its ten-year history, it has commissioned more than 40 original plays, partnering with leading theatre companies including Paines Plough and the Sherman Theatre. This long-standing commitment underscores the RWCMD’s dedication to integrating professional practice with student training, providing young actors with the invaluable experience of originating roles in brand-new works.

The NEW ’25 season continues this tradition, focusing on stories that resonate with contemporary anxieties and aspirations. The four commissioned plays delve into complex themes such as personal autonomy, the pressures of political tension, and the intricate challenges of artistic identity in the modern world. Each production is the result of an intensive collaborative process, allowing students from the Richard Burton Company to work directly with established theatre professionals, gaining unparalleled insight into the development and staging of new work.

Featured Productions

This year’s festival slate features a compelling lineup of playwrights and directors:

The program includes “An Armed Robbery in a Petrol Station off the A38” by playwright Samuel Bailey, directed by Ned Bennett. This title suggests a narrative rooted in specific geographical detail and potential tension.

Another highlight is “Salem” by Lisa Parry, directed by Sara Lloyd. This play’s title evokes historical or thematic weight, potentially exploring themes of accusation, community, or belief.

Dipo Baruwa-Etti presents “Children of the West,” directed by Zoë Templeman-Young. Baruwa-Etti is known for exploring contemporary social and political landscapes, and this title hints at generational themes or regional identity.

Rounding out the festival is “Into the Light” by acclaimed playwright Vivienne Franzmann, directed by Lucy Morrison. Franzmann’s work often tackles challenging subjects with depth, and this title suggests a journey towards understanding or revelation.

Each play is a world premiere, offering audiences a first look at these new works performed by the graduating actors poised to enter the professional industry.

Performance Schedule

Tickets for NEW ’25 are available via the Young Vic website. The schedule is structured to allow audiences to potentially see multiple productions across the festival run, with matinee and evening performances for each play:

* “An Armed Robbery in a Petrol Station off the A38” is scheduled for June 11 and 13 at 2 pm, and June 12 and 14 at 6 pm.
* “Salem” will be performed on June 11 and 13 at 6 pm, and June 12 and 14 at 2 pm.
* “Children of the West” is set for June 18 and 20 at 2 pm, and June 19 and 21 at 6 pm.
* “Into the Light” will be staged on June 18 and 20 at 6 pm, and June 19 and 21 at 2 pm.

Performances take place within the intimate setting of the Maria Theatre, part of the Young Vic complex, providing a focused environment for these new dramatic explorations.

Essential Information

Audience members should note that NEW ’25 productions are recommended for ages 14+. The plays contain adult themes, reflecting the complexities of the subject matter explored. Additionally, some productions may include the use of strobe effects. Patrons with sensitivities are advised to consult specific production details or contact the theatre for further information.

The return of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama to the Young Vic with NEW ’25 represents a significant opportunity for both the graduating students and the wider theatre community, offering a glimpse into the future of playwriting and performance through these bold, student-led world premieres in a major London venue.