Sherman Theatre’s first production under its Artistic Director Designate Francesca Goodridge will be a brand new play co-produced with the world-famous new writing company, the Royal Court Theatre, as part of its 70th birthday season.
It marks the second time these two leading new writing theatre companies have collaborated, following 2017’s Olivier Award-winning commercial and critical smash hit Killology, written by Gary Owen.
Monument is a brand new play by Welsh writer and actor Rhys Warrington, here making both his Sherman Theatre and Royal Court debut.
‘…But it’s us that have to live with it.’
With the eyes of the world watching, a Welsh farming community, torn apart by tragedy, gathers to debate a planned memorial. Tonight, you’re in the village hall with them – and every vote counts.
With two possible endings determined by the decision you, the audience, make. How, when the time comes, will you vote?
A portrait of a close-knit community wrestling with its past, its future and the politics of remembrance.
Rhys Warrington said “I am beyond thrilled that Monument will have its world premiere at the Royal Court as part of its 70th Anniversary Season with the added bonus of getting to do it alongside the wonderful Sherman Theatre where it’ll be part of Francesca Goodridge’s inaugural season as Artist Director. Monument’s about so many things but for me it will always be about a community of people who, although often overlooked and underestimated, deserve the opportunity to be heard. I can’t wait for them to step out onto that iconic stage. I can’t wait for you to meet them.”
Francesca Goodridge said “As my first production as Artistic Director of Sherman Theatre, Monument couldn’t be more fitting. It’s bold, rooted in Wales, and unafraid to ask big questions. It embodies everything I want the Sherman to stand for; ambitious, fearless theatre made in Wales with world-class quality.
Our co-production with the Royal Court, part of its 70th anniversary season, is an electric collaboration. It re-unites two leading new writing theatres, connecting Cardiff and London in a shared celebration of Welsh talent, outstanding new writing, and exceptional storytelling. From the first read, I knew Monument was something special. Rhys is an exceptional playwright and fast becoming one of the UK’s most compelling voices.
Monument is a statement of intent; for Sherman, for Welsh theatre, and for where our stories can go next.”
Sherman Theatre’s Chief Executive Julia Barry said “For the past decade we’ve stood at the forefront of new writing from Wales. Together with our writers we have massively enriched the Welsh theatrical canon. This major new collaboration with our friends at Royal Court Theatre, who we are thrilled to be working with once again, demonstrates how we can build on that position and further represent Welsh theatre across the UK. Monument underlines our continuing commitment to provide audiences with exceptional, resonant theatre and is an exciting indication of where we can take Welsh theatre under Francesca’s artistic leadership.”
Francesca Goodridge was announced as Sherman Theatre’s new Artistic Director in June 2025, and will take up her new post in January 2026, joining Chief Executive Julia Barry in the leadership team.
Sherman Theatre will announce its 2026 season of productions later in November 2025. Then, in 2026, it will announce its first season under Francesca’s artistic direction.