THE LEGEND of Devil’s Bridge, Theatr Mynach’s new pantomime performed between April 29 and May 2 at Canolfan Cymunedol Mynach Community Centre, Devil’s Bridge, was a huge success.
All tickets sold out within two weeks of release, with many people unable to secure tickets once performances had sold out. The production brought the community together in a celebration of fun, music, dance and performance, receiving particular praise for the pantomime humour, songs, dances and warm community atmosphere.
Theatr Mynach is a community theatre company based in Devil’s Bridge, founded by husband-and-wife team Keith Masson (Director and Script Writer) and Zoë Pettinger (Associate Director, Musical Director and Choreographer). The company is supported through funding from the Cefn Croes Wind Farm Community Trust Fund.
The Legend of Devil’s Bridge was written by Keith Masson, with original songs and choreography by Zoë Pettinger. The pantomime was created as a lively and entertaining production inspired by the local legend of Devil’s Bridge and featured numerous musical numbers and dances.
The project became far more than a stage production — it developed into a remarkable community achievement, bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels as actors, singers, dancers, set builders, costume makers and volunteers behind the scenes. For many, this was their first experience of theatre.
A total of 34 cast and crew members took part directly in the production and, for many, the experience was transformative.
Trudi Bishop is also a valued member of the committee and serves as the company’s Safeguarding Officer, helping to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Theatr Mynach was founded on a strong belief in the power of theatre to bring people together. After working with theatre companies across the UK in stage, television and film, Keith and Zoë have brought their experience back to rural Ceredigion to create an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. Where possible, the company also adapts productions and rehearsals to support participants with disabilities or additional needs.
The production also promoted Welsh language and culture through bilingual elements within the script and Welsh language songs. For Welsh learners within both cast and audience, this created opportunities to hear, use and enjoy Welsh in a fun, supportive and creative environment.
Participants commented: “Singing in Welsh gave me more confidence.” and “It was lovely to hear Welsh being used so naturally.”
The combination of humour, music and community spirit helped make the Welsh-language performance elements accessible and enjoyable for fluent Welsh speakers and learners alike.
Following the success of the production, Theatr Mynach is now hoping to take The Legend of Devil’s Bridge on tour to other local areas, bringing accessible community theatre and creative opportunities to more rural communities.
