S4C has announced it will broadcast a Welsh-language version of the globally acclaimed TV series The Voice in 2025. Titled Y Llais in Welsh, the show will be produced by Boom Cymru, part of ITV Studios. With internationally renowned opera singer Sir Bryn Terfel as one of the four coaches, the series promises to uncover Wales’ next big singing sensation.
Sir Bryn Terfel, a veteran performer at opera houses and concert stages worldwide for over three decades, is excited to be part of the show. He is joined by a diverse group of coaches from different musical genres, all sitting in the iconic chairs that have become synonymous with The Voice. A Grammy, Classical Brit, and Gramophone Award winner, Sir Bryn Terfel is eager to uncover the musical talent Wales has to offer.
Y Llais will consist of eight 90-minute episodes, marking the 75th adaptation of the original format of The Voice. This makes The Voice the most successful format brand in the non-scripted global marketplace. The series, including its six spin-offs, was recognized by K7 Media last month as the “Franchise of the Year” and the format with the highest number of active versions in 2023.
The Welsh version will follow the familiar format of blind auditions, where aspiring singers from Wales will take the stage to impress the four coaches. The nation’s best vocalists will compete for a chance to be crowned the winner, securing a coveted 12-month mentoring opportunity and performance spots on S4C programs.
S4C’s Interim Chief Content Officer, Geraint Evans, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that Y Llais will be a “fantastic spectacle” that will attract a wider and more diverse audience. He emphasized the excitement of having Sir Bryn Terfel as one of the coaches and the anticipation of discovering the next big voice from Wales.
Nia Thomas, Managing Director of Boom Cymru, echoed similar sentiments, calling The Voice an “iconic global vocal competition” and the perfect platform to showcase Welsh talent. She encouraged aspiring singers from Wales to apply for Y Llais, emphasizing the opportunity to shine a spotlight on their talent and help make their dreams come true.
The series will be presented by BBC Radio 1 presenter Sian Eleri, who is thrilled to be a part of such a massive global platform for new talent.
Y Llais promises to deliver fun and feel-good entertainment for the whole family, offering a unique twist to the familiar format by showcasing the rich musical talent and culture of Wales. With auditions set to take place in July, the search for Wales’ next big voice is on, and the excitement is building for what promises to be an exciting and captivating edition of The Voice.
Applications for Y Llais are now open, with a deadline of June 21st, 2024. Auditions will be held in north Wales on July 12th and in south Wales on July 15th. The series will be available to watch on S4C, S4C Clic, and BBC iPlayer, bringing the magic of The Voice to Welsh audiences and beyond.
