Bad Lads, written by Mike Kenny and Jimmy Coffey, created from a story by Jimmy Coffey and the testimonies of the Medomsley boys, tells the gripping and devastating true story of the boys held at Medomsley Youth Detention Centre in County Durham in the 1970s and 1980s. Directed by Jenny Sealey and produced by Graeae in association with Live Theatre, this unflinching and deeply humane production transformed testimony into compelling theatre. Combining emotional honesty with rigorous storytelling, it illuminated a painful chapter of British history while ensuring those affected remained at the heart of the narrative. Created with accessibility at its core, it demonstrated theatre's unique ability to bear witness, challenge silence and create understanding.

Founded by Michael Sheen, Sharon Gilburd and Tim Price following the closure of Wales's previous English-language national theatre, Welsh National Theatre has rapidly established itself as one of the UK's most significant new cultural organisations. Combining artistic excellence with a bold vision for Wales's creative future, it has delivered acclaimed productions including Playing Burton, Our Town and November’s Owain & Henry, while creating new opportunities for writers, actors and theatre-makers through initiatives such as Welsh Net. Built on a sustainable model of partnerships, philanthropy and audience support, the company has reimagined what a national theatre can be: not a building, but a platform for a nation, its stories and its talent.