As this seasons Drwm programme draws to an end, last night, actor and film star Matthew Rhys visited the Library to promote his recent book about his journey across Patagonia – ‘Patagonia – Crossing the Plain’.
The tickets for the event sold out a month ago, and due to this huge demand we decided to organise an overflow, where people could enjoy the evening through a live link from another room! Even though the event wasn’t due to start until 7.30 p.m., fans were starting to arrive at 6.40 p.m. in order to get front row seats!
‘Patagonia’ is a photographic account of Matthew’s journey on horseback along the Andes – the same journey as 30 Welsh speakers experienced 125 years ago.
President of the National Library of Wales, Dafydd Wigley chaired the Question and Answer session as Matthew described the demands of the trek and gave an overview of the lives of his fellow travellers, the Rifleros.
He also discussed his eating habits during his journey. I, as a vegetarian for the last 20 years or so would definitely not of survived. Vegetables were considered as food to be eaten only if you were ill!
The Cardiff-born actor looked relaxed and happy to be home as he greeted fans at the Library, posing for photos and signing copies of his book.
Some of his family who live at Pennal near Machynlleth as well as his sister and parents had made a special effort to attend the event and to welcome Matthew home for his whistle-stop tour of Wales. Indeed, we had the true ‘Brother and Sister’here last night.
Mike Parker, the ex-stand up comedian, broadcaster and author of ‘Map Addict’ will be at the Library tomorrow night to give an insight into how Wales is mapped. This presentation is also in conjunction with our current exhibition, Small World.