THE Billybanks was the scene of dramatic photoshoot for the National Theatre Wales' contribution to the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.

The shoot, involving actors Richard Harrington (Tullus Aufidius) and Richard Lynch (Coriolanus), was promoting the theatre's forthcoming multimedia production of Coriolan/us. The former Billybanks site, once given an award for its design but currently in the process of being torn down, was said to be the 'perfect backdrop' to showcase the 'modern take' on Shakespeare's political play.

The production, which draws inspiration from today's era of 24-hour news, CCTV and political instability, is one of Wales' key contributions to the London 2012 Festival, which is part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. It will be performed in an aircraft hangar in the Vale in August as part of the World Shakespeare Festival. Catrin Rogers, Media Officer at National Theatre Wales, said: "Our first choice of location for this photoshoot was the former Billybanks estate, and the final images prove why.

"We're grateful to Crest Nicholson for making us feel welcome and safe, and weÕre thrilled with the results."

Sandra Dixon, Sales and Marketing Director for Crest Nicholson, who are developing the iconic site into the Penarth Heights estate, said: "We were delighted to support National Theatre Wales in their photoshoot for Coriolan/us. It's great to be involved in such a high profile theatre production for Wales.

"We are now moving towards our second phase of development at Penarth Heights and I'm sure the new residents will be thrilled to know that the site played a part in the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad!"

* National Theatre Wales' production of Coriolan/us takes place on August 8-11 and 15-18 at Hangar 858 Picketston, St Athan. Tickets are on sale now from Wales Millennium Centre, Chapter Arts Centre or online at http://ntw21.eventbrite.co.uk