Michael Sheen joins Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

Hollywood actors Michael Sheen and Jonathan Pryce have taken on new roles chairing the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

The Welsh actors were part of a host of new names to represent the Cardiff institution at home and abroad.

Port Talbot-born Sheen said he was looking forward to working with new talent.

He recently represented the college at the unveiling of Richard Burton's star on the Los Angeles walk of fame.

The college was behind the campaign to raise funds to have Burton's star installed in recognition of his talent.

Announcing its new chairs, the college said the second tenure of international chairs allowed it to benefit from their "knowledge, insight and artistry" and boost its national and international profile.

Sheen is known for his screen portrayals of figures such as Tony Blair, David Frost and Brian Clough, as well as starring in a host of Hollywood films.

He returned to his home town of Port Talbot in 2011 for a 72-hour performance of The Passion which involved over 1,000 residents.

Meanwhile, Holywell-born Pryce is also an award-winning actor of the stage and screen.

He had his breakthrough in Terry Gilliam's Brazil, and has since appeared in a range of critically-acclaimed roles.

College drama director Sean Crowley said: "The drama department is delighted that these posts have been created and that we have been able to appoint such inspirational and prestigious artists from the world of performing arts."

Russian trumpeter Sergei Nakariakov has also accepted a chair at the college.