UWTSD alumnus wins the Matthew Rhys Award at the Urdd National Eisteddfod

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) alumnus Jona Milone has won the Matthew Rhys Award following his success in the Monologue competition for 19-25 year olds at the Urdd National Eisteddfod in Anglesey.

In response to the news, Jonah said:

“It’s an absolute honour to win the award, I’m sure it sounds cliché, but the competition in the Monologue category this year was of an extremely high standard. I definitely didn’t think I had won, as my reaction in the results video shows. Winning this award is a reminder that I have the ability to continue to develop and push forward.”

The award includes a series of masterclasses with leading actors and professionals, including Matthew Rhys himself, as well as financial support to aid career development. Jonah said this will enable him to attend more auditions across the UK and to continue to develop his craft as a performer.

Jonah performed two monologues in the competition, Anthony’s monologue from William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, and Gavin’s monologue from Daf James’ play, Tylwyth.

Jona praises the support he received during his time at UWTSD’s Wales Academy of Voice and Dramatic Arts (WAVDA), giving special thanks to his acting tutors for their guidance and encouragement.

“The BA Musical Theatre course gave me confidence as an actor. Some actors believe that training in acting is better than Musical Theatre, but at WAVDA, I developed the confidence in my body, confidence in my voice and, of course, I improved my craft as an actor.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky with my acting coaches at WAVDA. Each one has taught me something valuable: Tonya Smith taught me to connect, to listen, to relax in my first year. Angharad Lee taught me to ‘cool down’ and be present, she pushed me as an actor, challenged me and always supported me. And Elen Bowman enhanced my passion to understand the actor’s theory and how to delve deeper into the process. I would never have been able to win this award without all the lecturers at WAVDA who encouraged me to improve my craft.”

Since graduating, Jona has built an increasingly successful career in the creative industry. His recent work includes playing the role of Emyr in Y Tolldy with Beastly Media, working as a presenter with Hansh, and playing the role of Harris in Sam Birch’s film, I Am a Wrestler. He is also about to start a new writing project in Pembrokeshire in partnership with Torch Theatre.

Jona is keen to further contribute to the development of contemporary Welsh theatre:

“I hope to create more Welsh theatre that pushes boundaries, challenges the mind and encourages audiences to reconsider their perspectives.”

As well as his creative work, Jona has also returned to the University to teach students, sharing the skills and experiences he uses in his professional work with the next generation of performers.

Reflecting on his journey, he added:

“The most important lesson I learned at WAVDA was to understand who I am as a person. That understanding gives to any actor the foundation to thrive. I’m extremely fortunate to see talented students develop and shine, and that’s a great privilege.”

Angharad Lee, BA Musical Theatre Programme Manager at UWTSD, added:

“Jonah was always a unique voice and presence within our community, bringing a special perspective and a genuine commitment to his craft. His passion for the acting process and his dedication to developing as an artist was always evident, so much so that we welcomed him back to teach with us this term.

“At the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, we pride ourselves on maintaining meaningful relationships with our graduates, celebrating not only their achievements but also their ongoing creative journeys. It is always a pleasure to see alumni using the skills and experiences they developed with us, adapting them to their own practice and shaping exciting careers on their own terms. Jonah’s return to the program, alongside their professional achievements, is a great example of the lasting connections and creative paths we strive to cultivate.”

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476