About the Show

Michael Sheen stars in this new play about the life of the founder of the NHS, Aneurin "Nye" Bevan.

Aneurin "Nye" Bevan is often referred to as the politician with the greatest influence on Great Britain without ever becoming Prime Minister. From campaigning for coal miners from his native South Wales to founding the National Health Service in 1948, his work changed the landscape of British life in enormous ways.

Now on death's doorstep, Aneurin's memories lead him on a journey through his life; from childhood, going down the mines at the age of 13, Parliament, and fights with Winston Churchill.

Olivier Award-nominee Michael Sheen ('Under Milk Wood') plays Nye Bevan in this new play by Tim Price ('Protest Song', 'Force Majeure'), which is directed by the artistic director of the National Theatre Rufus Norris ('Small Island') and co-produced by the Wales Millenium Centre.

Critic Reviews (9)

For a previous production

"Norris’s production has a determinedly trippy quality intended to counter the cliches."
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For a previous production

"a valiant and valuable affirmation of the NHS"
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For a previous production

"despite a baggy script, the real life parallels deliver an emotional punch"
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For a previous production

"It’s engaging, never less than interesting, but it doesn’t always find the balance"
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For a previous production

"Michael Sheen brings zest to this lumpy story of the founder of the NHS"
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For a previous production

"Sheen burns with genuine passion. His charisma fills the gaps in the script."
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For a previous production

"...Nye’s story deserves to echo through the ages."
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For a previous production

"...its extensively researched material not fully absorbed dramatically."
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Trailer

Creative team

Wales Millennium Centre