Entertainment

Torch announces the departure of CEO after 5 years at the helm

Published

7 months ago

October 10, 2024

THE TORCH THEATRE, centre for the arts in Pembrokeshire and one of Wales’ pre-eminent producing theatres today announces the departure of Executive Director Benjamin Lloyd after an historic five years at the helm.

Ben’s tenure at the Torch has taken in the lows of the pandemic and the subsequent determination to survive and flourish, continuing to serve our communities throughout, and the highs of a record breaking 45^th year. Ben has overseen an exhilarating renewal of artistic leadership, major national partnerships and co-productions and the redoubling of the Torch’s commitment to the young, vulnerable and underrepresented in our community with the establishment of a dedicated Youth & Community department.

Enduring highlights include The Pembrokeshire Story engagement project that brought together artists and communities during the pandemic in the building of a living archive of stories; a bumper anniversary year in 2022 that saw five Torch productions, tours of Wales and the UK and runs in London and Edinburgh with a mix of new writing and Torch classics; the establishment of the groundbreaking Craidd partnership, and securing of long-term funding aimed at removing barriers to mainstream theatre for Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists and freelancers; and the achievement of a vital uplift in funding as part of the Arts Council Wales Investment Review, securing the Torch’s strategic position at the vanguard of Welsh theatre and bucking the trend of funding cuts across the board.

Benjamin Lloyd, Executive Director said: “It has been the honour of my professional career to lead the theatre that has given so many of us in west Wales our first, and so often only exposure to high quality performing arts in all its forms. The Torch is a minor miracle in today’s funding climate and a precious resource for the community. It represents a window to the world beyond and a lifeline for so many – young, old, isolated and vulnerable – in this beautiful, far-flung part of the world. I am beyond proud of the commitment, skill, humanity and passion of the team under my leadership and what we have achieved together in extremis has been spectacular, delivering for our community and supporting the arts ecology in Wales in ways both seen and unseen.

“However, the commitment required to sustain the Torch throughout this period has been absolute and has come at no small cost to me and to my young family. Now is the time for me to pass on the baton and regain some equilibrium. I have absolute confidence in the artistic leadership of the Torch under Chelsey Gillard, and faith in the team to continue on this exciting trajectory. As I step away, I will be taking some time with my family before pursuing fresh opportunities as we look forward to our next adventure. I will enjoy again celebrating and supporting the Torch as a patron and will look forward to contributing with fresh energy and perspective to the arts and the cultural conversation in Wales and beyond.

“There is never a perfect moment to step aside but having been in dialogue for some time over how and when I would make this change, and with long-term funding and support for artistic innovation and organisational development secured, I have decided with the Board that now is the time to make the break. As such I am stepping down from today with interim arrangements in place as the Board reviews the strategic plan and objectives for my successor.

“I want to thank the staff and volunteer teams (past and present) who go above and beyond to provide a warm welcome and life-enriching experiences to our patrons. Sincere thanks also to our partners, funders – especially colleagues at Arts Council Wales – sponsors, supporters and above all our audience members. Each have delivered a huge vote of confidence in my leadership and the quality in artistic and community provision delivered by our team, with their support throughout my years in post – both financial and otherwise – and it has been so very much appreciated.

“I would like to use my parting words on behalf of the Torch to entreat government at every level to recognise not only the economic and wellbeing benefits that the arts generate and deliver, but also the essential contributions that the arts and in particular, a venue such as the Torch makes to the cultural fabric of their community and society at large. Our theatres, at their best, are citadels of expression and inclusion that play a vital role in forging social cohesion, place-making and sustaining communities, particularly in times of social decline and unrest. However, such venues within the funded arts sector cannot continue to exist on the good will and the commitment of their overextended workforce and require adequate funding and support if they are to continue to prosper. Protect the arts, Caru the Torch.”

Katrina Marsh, Chair of the Torch Theatre Board of Management said: “On behalf of the Board and staff team we extend our thanks to Ben for his dedication and leadership through the most challenging period in our history. His commitment to the Torch, its artists and the people of Pembrokeshire has left a legacy that we will seek to protect and build on. We wish Ben and his family well in their future endeavours and will be working with the senior management team to continue the delivery of our operational and strategic plans.”

Charity

St Davids RNLI duck race returns this bank holiday

Published

2 days ago

May 21, 2025

Tom Sinclair

700 ducks to race the River Alun in fun-filled fundraiser

ST DAVIDS RNLI is preparing to welcome crowds once again for its much-loved duck race, which takes place on bank holiday Monday, 26 May, on the River Alun outside St Davids Cathedral.

Building on the success of last year’s event, this year’s race will see 700 plastic ducks released into the river, all competing for cash prizes. The race begins at 1:00pm, with festivities kicking off from 11:00am.

Visitors can enjoy a pop-up shop, home-made cakes, and the chance to name a duck for just £2 – with all proceeds supporting the vital, lifesaving work of the RNLI in St Davids.

“The duck race is always a fantastic day out for all ages and a brilliant way to support the lifeboat station,” said Simone Eade, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer. “Every duck sold helps us continue our mission of saving lives at sea.”

Entertainment

Dad brings laughter, heart and movie magic to Welsh stage

Published

2 days ago

May 21, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Torch Theatre to host acclaimed production exploring fatherhood with humour and heart

WHAT makes a great dad? Martin thinks he might know — and he’s determined to share his answer with audiences this June at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

DAD is a darkly funny and heartfelt theatrical journey through the father figures who shaped Martin’s life — from Darth Vader to Indiana Jones, from the ever-elusive ‘Cool Dad’ to the all-too-familiar ‘Dad Dancer’. Through live movie re-enactments, questionable Harrison Ford impressions, and surprise appearances on screen, Martin invites audiences to reflect on what it means to be a father, and whether any dad ever truly feels like they’re enough.

But for Martin, the question cuts deeper — is he trying to save his son, or himself?

Created by acclaimed writers Keiron Self and Kevin Jones, this moving production promises a unique blend of cinematic nostalgia and personal storytelling. Self is best known for his role as hapless dentist Roger Bailey in the hit BBC sitcom My Family, and has a rich background in TV (Still Open All Hours, Casualty), film (Bittersweet Symphony, Black Mountain Poets), and theatre (Copenhagen, Love and Money). His writing credits include Sadie J (CBBC) and A Christmas Number One (Sky Cinema).

Kevin Jones, who stars as Martin, is a BAFTA Cymru-winning drama editor and accomplished playwright. His work has been staged at the Edinburgh and Camden Fringe festivals, and his award-winning short plays have reached audiences around the world, including Off-Broadway. As an editor, he has worked on acclaimed Welsh productions such as Hinterland, Keeping Faith, and The Feast.

Supported by the Arts Council of Wales and praised by critics as “a smart, funny, and deeply affecting piece of work” (Get the Chance), Martin Decker: DAD is an unmissable night of theatre for fathers, sons, daughters — and anyone who’s ever questioned what it means to be a parent.

The show comes to the Torch Theatre on Wednesday, 25 June at 7:30pm. Tickets are priced at £18, or £16 for concessions. Recommended for ages 14 and up.

For more information, visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Entertainment

Wildlife wonders and family fun this May half-term in the National Park

Published

2 days ago

May 21, 2025

Tom Sinclair

FAMILIES looking to make the most of the May half-term will find plenty to inspire them across the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. From wildlife walks and archaeological adventures to pirate trails and seaside crafts, the week promises a rich mix of exploration, creativity, and discovery.

Wildlife takes centre stage this half-term, with a series of guided walks offering the chance to explore the Park’s quieter corners and seasonal highlights. The week begins with a closer look at one of our smallest and busiest residents. What’s That Bee? on 27 May offers a gentle walk through the fields and hedgerows of Skrinkle Haven, with tips on how to spot and identify local pollinators.

As day turns to dusk, two evening walks offer a chance to experience the Park in a different light. On 28 May, Brilliant Bats in St Davids invites visitors on a twilight wander through the city, using detectors to hear the high-pitched calls echoing around the Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace. The following evening’s Bat Walk at Carew offers a rare opportunity to explore the Castle after dark and encounter the protected species that shelter within its ancient walls.

For those in search of daylight discoveries, the Wildflower Wander at Broadhaven South on 29 May offers a slower pace and a closer look at the flora that thrives along the coast. Led by an expert guide, this gentle morning stroll explores the medicinal and culinary uses of some of the Park’s most familiar wild plants.

The Park’s layered past also plays a part in this half-term’s programme. On 27 May, Porthmawr: A Walk Through Time brings together archaeology, history, wildlife and geology in a guided tour led by a Park Ranger and the Park Authority’s Community Archaeologist. This immersive walk offers a chance to explore the stories hidden in the landscape, and to see how time, tide and people have shaped this distinctive stretch of coastline.

Meanwhile, at Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre, the half-term programme continues with a creative, coastal twist. From Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, families can follow the Pirate’s Treasure Trail around the grounds of Oriel y Parc to discover the surrounding headlands in search of washed-up clues and hidden rewards. Midweek brings a chance to craft seaside keepsakes at the Sea Trinkets Workshop on Wednesday 28 May, while the week ends with the return of the May Craft Market on Saturday 31 May, where every stall offers something different, made with skill, care, and their own creative flair.

For full event details and to plan your visit, go to www.orielyparc.co.uk or www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.

Those keen to explore further can choose from a wide range of scenic walking routes, available at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/web-walks.

Mobility support, including beach wheelchairs, is available at several locations across the Park. For more information, visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/beach-wheelchairs.