Torch artistic director Chelsey Gillard shares her love of the power of panto

Published

1 year ago

December 4, 2024

SOMEWHERE in the depths of rural Pembrokeshire lurks a lady in yellow with turquoise hair, lips like cochineal slugs on steroids and a penchant for rolling in the grass with pigs.

Enter the world of panto.

“Lloyd Grayshon is in his absolute element,” laughs Chelsey Gillard who is the artistic director of the Torch Theatre at Milford Haven.

“Last year he was a huge favourite with the audiences when he played the dad in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ so this year we decided that he should play the dame in ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. And he’s loving every minute – he’s even shaved his legs and painted his toenails to help him get into the role!”

No one can deny that staging a pantomime is one of the greatest challenges in the theatrical calendar, but when your task is to write it, cast it and direct your critical eye over every single aspect of its production, the job is mighty. Once again this year, the task is being carried out by Chelsey.

“Yes, it involves a tremendous amount of work and a lot of pressure, as the pantomime is the main focal point of the entire year,” she said.

“And you can rehearse a panto as many times as you want, but when the curtain opens, you just never know what to expect from your audience. This is why I often behave like an angry child when I’m directing, and the number of times I’ve heard our cast say, “And that child in Row C sounded exactly like you do in rehearsals” speaks for itself.”

This will be the second Torch pantomime written and directed by Chelsey, following last year’s hugely successful ‘Beauty and the Beast’.

“The wonderful thing about our audiences here in Pembrokeshire is that they really let us know what they think about a production,” she continues.

“Our box office staff have built up a strong relationship with our audiences, with the result that they hear first-hand what people think. And obviously the audience’s participation is extremely important because it helps us to understand what people are enjoying as well as the things they don’t like. You can just sense it.”

One of the requests from last year’s audience was for more ‘cheeky humour’.

“So needless to say, we’ve made sure that this year they’ll be getting plenty of it,” chuckled Chelsey. “It’s almost as if the Torch is putting on a bespoke production, tailor-made for the Pembrokeshire audience.”

But it’s that instinctive understanding of an audience’s reaction that makes the panto challenge so invigorating for the entire production team.

“Obviously there are certain sections which rely on audience participation, and if the audience is a bit quiet, then the characters will have to work very hard to get them on board.

“Similarly, our dame occasionally homes in on an individual in the audience, but her job is then to try and gauge how far that individual can be pushed. Can they go just that little bit further or should they hold back?”

In charge of the set and costume design is Kevin Jenkins and every costume has been handmade by Louise Sturley and maintained throughout the production by wardrobe mistress Wendy Haslam.

***Elena Carys-Thomas, Cari Munn, Gareth Elis and Lloyd Grayshon***

Even though the opening night isn’t until December 13, productions are already well underway for local primary schools throughout Pembrokeshire as well as a few schools in south Ceredigion and west Carmarthenshire.

“Approximately 4,000 children will have attended this year’s pantomime by opening night which is fantastic, when you consider that this could possibly be the very first live performance that many of them will have seen,” continues Chelsey.

“I can remember one of my very first visits to the pantomime when I was a child and even though I can’t remember which pantomime it was, I vividly remember the baddie – who I’m convinced was Jeremy Irons – and he made me cry my eyes out. But I absolutely loved it and it opened up for me the absolute magic of the pantomime and the theatre.”

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ is being played by a professional company, although many of its actors have strong links with Pembrokeshire including Milford Haven’s Sam Freeman, Lloyd Grayshon who lives in Haverfordwest and professional dancer, performer and choreographer, Freya Dare. Also taking part will be members of the Torch’s Youth Theatre (Years 5 and 6), who will be providing the voices of the Spirit of the Beans via recorded media.

“When you consider how hard the team has worked and how much they’ve achieved in such a relatively short space of time, you realise just how incredible they are,” Chelsey concluded.

“We had two and a half weeks in the rehearsal room, four days on the stage when we started putting everything together such as how to make the beanstalk work, how to set up the lights and the sound, ensure that the mics were all at the right level and throughout all this the cast are learning the songs, the dances, the words as well as getting to know each other as a company.

“They truly are a magnificent team to work with, and what they have created will hopefully show our audiences, both children and adults alike, the real magic of pantomime.”

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

3 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.