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Next year marks the 50th anniversary of George Lucas’ original Star Wars film, now called Episode IV: A New Hope. Ahead of the celebrations next year, which include a restored version of the theatrical release heading to cinemas, there’s another treat in store, especially if you’re a linguist. Today, Disney announced a Welsh-language dub of the 1977 original film with an impressive cast.
The Welsh version will star, “Matthew Rhys as Han Solo, Rhys Ifans as Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Aimee-Ffion Edwards as Princess Leia. Star Wars veteran Mark Lewis Jones takes on the role of Darth Vader, while rising talent Osian Morgan voices Luke Skywalker. The wider Welsh cast includes Llyr Ifans (C-3PO), Nia Roberts (Aunt Beru), Richard Harrington (Grand Moff Tarkin), Owain Arthur (Red Leader), and Rhodri Meilir (Gold Leader).” Producer Michael Kohn said: “We’re really excited about this project for many reasons. I’ve been involved in a few Indigenous dubs of Star Wars over the years that aim to preserve and revitalise interest in learning the language. They have been tremendously successful not only in their communities but internationally as well. The chance to celebrate the Welsh language through Star Wars is one we couldn’t pass up.”
Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan, who was born and raised in Wales added: “Wales has such a rich history of storytelling and a beautiful lyrical language. We have never before had a translation of Star Wars into Welsh and I am so thankful, that in celebration of our 50th anniversary, we have been able to work with some incredible Welsh talent to make that a reality. Welsh speakers will finally be able to enjoy the film in our native language and my hope is that it will have the same emotional impact as if you were watching the film again for the first time.”
Star Wars: Gobaith Newydd, will broadcast on S4C and across its platforms from Christmas Day onwards.
