Actor and musician Rhys Ifans is the latest star to voice support for SOUNDTRACK: The International Film and Music Festival for Wales.

Ifans currently divides his time between stage, screen and rock and roll (as lead singer in Welsh psychedelic rock band Y Peth), and has become the next homegrown talent to sign up as an advocate for SOUNDTRACK; the first festival of its kind in the UK.

The star, who became a household name in 1999 after starring as Spike in British film Notting Hill, said: "I'm really interested in SOUNDTRACK - it's a festival that appeals to me as an actor and a musician. There's not any film festival in the UK that celebrates this make or break element of the film - the soundtrack - and those who excel creatively in this field. I'm pleased to be associated with SOUNDTRACK, and pleased this new festival will draw attention to Wales."

Ifans grew up in Ruthin, North Wales. Notable stage appearances include A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Regent's Park Theatre and Under Milk Wood at the Royal National Theatre. He gained notoriety  for his role in the Welsh produced film, Twin Town, in which he starred with his actor brother, Llŷr Evans, and drew critical acclaim as Jed in Ian McEwan's Enduring Love.   In 2005, Ifans picked up a BAFTA for TV film Not Only But Always, for his portrayal of iconic comedian Peter Cook.

Ifans is undoubtedly the musicians' actor of choice, guesting in music videos by fellow Welshmen the Super Furry Animals, Catatonia, and the Stereophonics, and Oasis, in the video for their single The Importance of Being Idle.