November 2026 · Merthyr Tydfil, Pontypridd & Aberdare
Oh! Oh! Antonio played four nights from 3 to 6 November 2026 at Theatr Soar in Merthyr Tydfil, Garth Olwg in Pontypridd and St Elvan’s Church in Aberdare. Thank you to everyone who came, and to the cast and crew who brought Stephen J Preston’s first full-length play to the stage.
Production photos
What audiences said
What a revelation! It was incredible! Brilliantly acted, beautifully written, and weaving together socialism, feminism, religion, moral conviction, family relationships, poetry, the First World War and all the complexities of human behaviour. The standing ovation was thoroughly deserved.
Ian T.
A beautifully written play in a cracking venue. I had a tear or two. A lovely production.
Neil H.
This is incredibly special. A must see.
Kevin R.
A beautiful venue, a great story, well presented by a great cast.
Deborah P.
Excellent performance last night in Aberdare.
Kathryn T.
About the play
Inspired by the music hall song, Stephen J Preston, in his first full-length play for professional theatre, tells a powerful and deeply moving story of a family from Maerdy over several days in 1918. Through tense family scenes and with warm Welsh humour, we learn of the past traumas which have shaped this chapel-going family. As war ends, a stranger visits with news that shakes them to the core, but the visitor helps them face truths and their pasts and find hope in each other and renewed connection.
With an original score, a powerful collection of new poetry by Professor Kevin Mills and moving and beautiful film by Chris Lloyd, the play took Contemporancient Theatre forward in its exploration of Welsh life and culture, past and present. Stephen developed the script with Vic Mills, and the production was supported by Robert Idwal Jones, Neil Maidman, Chris Lloyd and Olivia Dickeson.
The run
- Tuesday 3 November 2026 – Theatr Soar, Merthyr Tydfil
- Wednesday 4 November 2026 – Garth Olwg, Pontypridd
- Thursday 5 November 2026 – St Elvan’s Church, Aberdare
- Friday 6 November 2026 – Garth Olwg, Pontypridd
