Foreigner in My Body combines theatre, movement and aerial performance in an accessible show inspired by artist Sara Hartel’s experiences

An AERIAL circus theatre production exploring identity, migration and belonging will make the final stop of its Welsh tour at the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven this month.

Foreigner in My Body combines theatre, movement and aerial circus to tell a semi-autobiographical story inspired by artist Sara Hartel’s experiences as a trans person and a migrant living in Wales.

The one-person production includes integrated captions and audio description, making it accessible to blind, partially sighted, D/deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences. It is recommended for adults and young people aged 13 and over.

Sara Hartel, is an interdisciplinary artist born in Germany and now based in Wales. Their previous work has included combining gaming with live performance in GORE and encouraging audiences to challenge authority in Strike Ltd.

Foreigner in My Body brings together aerial circus and theatre with a humorous and tongue-in-cheek tone, while examining serious questions about identity, discrimination and finding a sense of home.

The creative team behind the production includes composer Frances Bolley and movement artist Eddie Ladd.

Sara said: “I am so excited to be finally bringing this show, which I have been developing for many years, to audiences in Milford Haven.

“At a time of growing discrimination towards both migrant and trans communities, it is important for me to be able to share a semi-autobiographical story centred in joy.

“I am also passionate about the show being as accessible as possible, with integrated captions and audio description for blind, partially sighted and D/deaf audiences.”

The production is touring five venues across Wales this summer, with the Torch Theatre performance marking the final date of the tour.

Foreigner in My Body has been made possible with support and funding from the Arts Council of Wales.

The show will be performed at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, on Wednesday, July 29, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15, or £12 for concessions, and can be booked through the Torch Theatre website or by calling the box office on 01646 695267.

There is something particularly special about watching a children’s cast take to the stage, and Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight, presented by Torch Youth Theatre, was a wonderful example of just how much talent, enthusiasm and confidence young performers can bring to a show.

Running at the Torch Theatre from Monday, July 20 to Thursday, July 23, the production offers a brand-new retelling of the timeless Robin Hood legend, transporting audiences into the heart of Sherwood Forest.

The story follows Robin Hood, Maid Marian and a host of familiar characters as they fight for freedom against the tyranny of Queen Eleanor and the ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham. With daring escapes, a legendary archery contest and the mysterious presence of the Black Knight, there is plenty to keep audiences entertained.

From the outset, the production felt well organised and ran remarkably smoothly, with no noticeable hiccups. The set was simple and minimalistic, which worked particularly well. Rather than distracting from the action, it provided an effective backdrop that allowed the cast and story to remain the focus.

The lighting was another real highlight. It was beautifully executed throughout, helping to establish the mood and tone of each scene while adding to the overall atmosphere of the production. The timing was excellent, and there were no noticeable technical issues.

The costumes were also a real highlight and helped bring the characters and story to life. They were well designed, colourful and suited the production perfectly, adding to the overall visual appeal of the show. It was clear that a lot of thought had gone into making sure each character looked the part.

The props were also well chosen and surprisingly realistic. One particular detail that caught my attention was the Ring of Power, which looked wonderfully sparkly under the stage lights and added a lovely touch of magic to the production.

The sound was generally clear, and the children did an excellent job of projecting their voices. There were a few moments when the sound seemed to drift slightly, and some lines were harder to hear when there was additional commotion happening on stage. However, this was only a minor issue, and overall the cast communicated confidently and clearly.

The performances themselves were a real strength of the show. While the entire cast deserves credit for the effort and commitment they brought to their roles, a few performers particularly stood out. Maid Marian was absolutely brilliant and showed an impressive level of confidence and natural ability. She is clearly a very promising young performer, and it would be wonderful to see where her talent takes her in the future.

The adult Robin Hood was also excellent and, in my opinion, perfectly cast. Together, they provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase two very talented performers, and both certainly rose to the occasion.

The comic relief was another highlight, with some genuinely entertaining moments throughout. The brief singing with the ukulele, along with Steven’s contribution, brought plenty of fun and energy to the production and added to the enjoyment of the audience.

What impressed me most, however, was the confidence and commitment of the entire cast. Every performer played their part with enthusiasm, and I was particularly impressed by how well the younger children handled themselves on stage. It is no small achievement to perform in front of an audience, and they should all be incredibly proud of themselves.

The inclusion of Welsh-speaking elements was also a lovely touch. It fitted naturally into the production and added a sense of local identity, making the show feel particularly well suited to its setting.

Away from the stage, the theatre itself was clean and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a good selection of snacks and drinks available, including during the interval. These small touches helped make the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable.

Perhaps the greatest compliment I can give the production is the atmosphere in the theatre. Throughout the performance, the audience appeared completely at ease and engaged. It was lovely to see families enjoying the show together, with siblings cuddling up and parents sitting back, relaxed and entertained.

Overall, Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight was a thoroughly enjoyable production that showcased an impressive amount of young talent. The cast performed with confidence, energy and enthusiasm, supported by effective lighting, a well designed set, fantastic costumes and some lovely production details.

There was a real sense of warmth and community throughout the evening, and it was clear how much work had gone into bringing the production to life.

With tickets priced at £10, or £8 for concessions, the production offers an affordable opportunity for families to enjoy a night of live theatre while supporting the next generation of young performers.

A huge well done to everyone involved, including the cast, crew and everyone behind the scenes. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.

Tickets are available on the Torch Theatre website.

CELEBRATED folk troubadour Beans on Toast heads out on his annual UK tour later this year, with one show at The Queens Hall in Narberth on November 22.

Part concert, part gathering, every Beans on Toast show is a unique evening of songs and stories. Expect open-hearted tales of family, friendships and everyday life alongside protest songs, drinking songs, songs about nature and songs that’ll have you laughing one minute and wiping away a tear the next.

With his trademark warmth, wit and unwavering optimism, Beans has spent nearly two decades building one of the most loyal and welcoming audiences in British folk music. Whether you’ve been coming for years or it’s your first time, everyone is welcome.

Come and be part of a celebration of music, chaos, community and hope, and leave feeling like you’ve just caught up with an old friend.

UK TOUR DATES

18/11 BASINGSTOKE – Proteus Creation Space

19/11 BATH – Chapel Arts Centre

20/11 CHELTENHAM – Steam & Whistle

21/11 BRECON – The Foundry

22/11 NARBERTH – The Queens Hall

24/11 WOLVERHAMPTON – Wolverhampton Arts Centre

25/11 PRESTON – The Continental

26/11 HUDDERSFIELD – The Parish

27/11 SHIPLEY – Kirkgate Community Centre

28/11 ABERDEEN – The Tunnels

29/11 COATBRIDGE – The Georgian Hotel

1/12 WHITBY – Whitby Brewery

2/12 YORK – The Crescent

3/12 NORTHAMPTON – The Black Prince

4/12 NORWICH – Norwich Arts Centre

5/12 NOTTINGHAM – Bodega

6/12 NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME – The Rigger

7/12 STROUD – The Prince Albert

9/12 BOURNEMOUTH – Bear Cave

10/12 TOTNES – The Barrel House Ballroom

11/12 TORRINGTON – The Plough Arts Centre

12/12 WORTHING – The Factory Live

13/12 HASTINGS – Studio 27