Writer: Emily White
Director: Guy Jones
Angry, tender, and heartbreakingly relevant. A call to action.
Set amongst a row of coastal bungalows in Cardigan, Atlantis opens in 2011 with fisherman Bryn (Richard Elfyn) ranting and raving against the authorities’ decision to abandon him and his family ‘to the waves’. Faced with the prospect of becoming “climate refugees”, Bryn cannot accept that there is no alternative, no fight left to be had, and no compensation for the loss of a lifetime’s home. It is a powerful start to a play which keeps this resilient spirit throughout.
At the heart of the story is the wonderful, loving relationship between Bryn and his wife Gwen (Vivien Parry). Staunch activist Gwen fills their home with warmth, humour and fierce determination, qualities that are inherited by their grandchildren, Phillip (Alfie Llewellyn/Cole Davies Hughes) and Rhiannon (Eirlys Lovell-Jones/Emily Hughes). Living with their Nain and Taid following the premature death of their father, the grandchildren, as well as daughter, Claire (Catrin Aaron), form a family bound by love, yet fractured by differing beliefs, ambitions and generations.
Emily White’s writing is exceptional, weaving together the complexities of family relationships against a backdrop of social, political and environmental upheaval. The play spans almost three decades, taking us through the joys, losses, tensions and transformations of family life. Gwen’s lifelong commitment to activism shapes the family dynamic, from local campaigns to national climate protests. Alongside her granddaughter Rhiannon, she embraces the urgency of environmental action, while Bryn remains defiantly rooted to his home, determined to be the last man standing.
The play explores some difficult questions; The definition of what sacrifice is and looks like. The measure of the personal cost of activism weighed up against those who are perceived as complicit, because they’re just trying to survive day to day (like single mum Claire). Through thoughtful and often heated debates, Atlantis explores where people’s moral boundaries lie and examines sacrifice on personal, social and global levels. Particularly striking is its portrayal of women’s roles within protest movements and the emotional/physical labour carried by those fighting for change.
Phillip’s relationship with Astrid (Sara Otung) introduces another compelling thread. For perhaps the first time, he begins to consider what he wants as an individual rather than simply fulfilling the expectations of family and cause. These personal conflicts sit comfortably alongside the larger questions about climate catastrophe and the uncertain future facing younger generations.
Directed by Guy Jones, seamless scene transitions, evocative movement and atmospheric soundscapes create a world that feels tangible and lived-in. The staging is immersive, transporting the audience directly into this coastal community — at times you can almost feel the cold sea breeze across your face.
Themes of class, gender, ageing and environmental destruction are skilfully interwoven throughout. The strain placed on families by social change, economic inequality and ecological collapse feels painfully relevant. The play also sensitively addresses dementia, adding another layer to its exploration of memory, belonging and loss.
There is an underlying melancholy throughout Atlantis, constantly asking what kind of future awaits us. Yet despite its heavy themes, the play is filled with humour, spirit and humanity. It delivers moments of genuine laughter alongside profound sadness which bring a tear to the eye.
A home is more than bricks and mortar; it is years of love, memories, care and identity. The play captures the heartbreak of watching communities abandoned and people treated differently depending on where they live and the resources available to them. It also highlights the frustration faced by those trying to make a difference, whose warnings about climate change and environmental responsibility are often dismissed by people who are simply struggling to get through everyday life.
The ensemble cast is particularly strong, delivering emotionally rich and believable performances throughout. The younger actors bring tremendous energy and commitment to their roles, and while occasionally some dialogue could have been projected with slightly greater clarity, their performances remain engaging and impactful.
Atlantis is an ambitious, moving, and thought-provoking production. It punches, and resonates long after the final scene. If there was ever a time to be angry, to care and to act, this stunning piece of theatre suggests that time is now.
Runs until 4th July 2026.
