UWTSD Graduating Performers Take Centre Stage in Showcase Production, Alice By Heart

23 June 2026

Graduating students from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) took audiences on a magical, moving and imaginative journey as they presented their final year showcase production, Alice By Heart.

Featuring students from the BA Perfformio, BA Theatr Gerddorol and BA Musical Theatre courses, the production provided an opportunity for students to demonstrate their performance and creative skills to audiences and industry professionals.

Inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Alice By Heart combined a soaring contemporary score with a heartfelt story of friendship, resilience, imagination and hope in the face of adversity. Through its powerful themes and inventive storytelling, the production offered audiences a unique theatrical experience while showcasing the exceptional talent of UWTSD’s graduating performers.

The production was directed by Welsh theatre-maker Dan Phillips, with Musical Director Iestyn Griffiths leading the cast through Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s evocative and emotionally rich score. The students have loved working with an acclaimed Welsh Musical Director whose work spans theatre, television, film, radio and live concerts. His extensive credits include Bat Out of Hell, The Wizard of Oz, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical, and A Night With Janis Joplin.

Choreographer Eddie Ladd developed a distinctive movement language for the production, creating choreography that was both emotionally resonant and imaginatively playful.

UWTSD’s Dance Lead, Tori Johns said:

“It was wonderful having choreographer Eddie Ladd working with our students, encouraging innovation, collaboration and creative risk-taking throughout the rehearsal process. Her unique approach to movement and storytelling challenged the cast to think beyond traditional choreography, developing work that was imaginative, authentic and deeply connected to the narrative, reflecting the industry today.”

For many students, the production provided valuable opportunities to work alongside industry professionals while exploring new creative approaches.

Alice By heart being performed by students

Student Emily Couper said:

“The process was incredibly rewarding, and I loved collaborating with creatives who are actively working within the industry. Performing in a traverse staging was a new experience for me, and exploring physical theatre as a storytelling tool rather than relying solely on dance challenged me in exciting ways. It pushed me to think differently as a performer and opened up a fresh and engaging approach to creating character and narrative.”

The showcase highlighted UWTSD’s commitment to providing students with industry-focused training and meaningful professional connections.

UWTSD’s Programme Manager for BA Perfformio and BA Musical Theatre, Angharad Lee, said:

“We were incredibly proud to collaborate with a core creative team of Welsh practitioners who are working professionally at the highest level of the industry. These relationships are vital for our students, offering real-world experience, inspiration and mentorship, while creating important connections that can support their transition from training into professional practice.”