Teenager’s cancer story turned into stage show
TWO years Megan Davies was an ordinary 18 year old looking forward to a summer full of fun.
The teenager from Pwllheli had completed her A levels and was set for a summer holiday with friends before starting a nursing degree in Cardiff.
But on June 29 Megan’s life changed forever when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma cancer.
During the gruelling treatment Megan kept a brutally honest diary which she posted online.
Fast forward two years, and with Megan now cancer free, her brave battle has been transformed into a theatre production by Frân Wen.
The Anglesey-based theatre company, who specialise in productions for children, are taking Mwgsi on tour around Wales this autumn.
The actors Mirain Fflur - who plays the part of Mwgsi - Catrin Mara and Ceri Elen will perform in the drama.
Author and playwright Manon Steffan Ros has penned the script, and bringing the whole show together is Frân Wen’s Artistic Director Iola Ynyr.
She promises “a brutally honest and darkly humorous drama.”
“The thing that struck me about Mwgsi’s blog was her brave honesty. There was no hint of selfpity, only a determination to face the cancer head on with plenty of humour. At times it made for a very uncomfortable read but love and friendship prevails through all that.
“The moment I came across the blog I knew it would work brilliantly on stage - the fast pace and multiple location lends itself to a wonderfully visual story that is sure to emotionally embrace the audience,” she said.
Megan and her best friend Gwenllian - who also contributed to the blog - have been part of the creative process from day one.
“It’s been a lot of fun being involved and putting everything together,” said Megan, who began her nursing degree at Cardiff University this year, “I’ve been reading Manon’s books for years, especially when I was studying for my A levels, so it was a great experience working with her on developing Mwgsi.”
The creative process included an intense period of sharing stories, improvisation, physical work, story structures and experimenting.
“There was a lot of laughing and crying but it was paramount that Megan and Gwenllian were a part of this from the start. Both felt confident enough to voice their opinions when our imaginations would start to run wild!”
“It’s been a pleasure to work with a team who have been so open to ideas and who are determined to develop the best script possible,” added Iola.
Initially the thought of sharing her story on stage was strange for Megan:
“I feel glad that I’ve had this opportunity to share my story so we can raise awareness of cancer among young people..
“Manon Steffan Ros has used my story as inspiration, and we’ve tried to make the production as abstract as possible using my blog as a foundation.
“I hope that Mwgsi will encourage us all to talk with each other - talk about cancer, illness and mental health. We don’t talk enough.”