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Haverfordwest Operatic Society revives Edwardian favourite

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The Arcadians returns with local star and timeless charm

THIS summer, Haverfordwest Operatic Society invites audiences on a whimsical journey to Arcadia—the land that time forgot—where truth reigns, youth never fades, and harmony is the law of the land.

But paradise is thrown into turmoil when a Londoner crash-lands in Arcadia, bewildering the locals with tales of modern wickedness and city life. Determined to restore balance, Arcadian sisters Sombra and Chrysea travel to London, hoping to civilise the metropolis with their values of honesty and simplicity.

Originally opening in the West End in 1909, The Arcadians enjoyed an extraordinary 809-performance run before transferring to Broadway. With music by Lionel Monckton and Howard Talbot and lyrics by Arthur Wimperis, it remains a sparkling example of Edwardian musical theatre. The Stage once described the score as “an absolute winner.”

This summer’s revival has been adapted by Ifor Phillips, who marks his 60th production with Haverfordwest Operatic Society. He also serves as Musical Director.

“After so many years with HOS, I still find immense joy in watching a show come together,” said Mr Phillips. “The Arcadians reminds us how uplifting theatre can be. It’s classic Edwardian charm with plenty of laughs and a touch of magic.”

The production includes musical numbers such as The Pipes of Pan, The Girl with The Brogue, and the showstopping All Down Piccadilly.

In a special guest appearance, Pembrokeshire’s own Emily Davis returns to the local stage in the lead role. Known to audiences as cabaret performer “Blodwen,” Emily began her journey with HOS before launching a successful career that has included performances at the Wales Millennium Centre and the Edinburgh Fringe.

“It’s lovely to be back with HOS,” said Emily. “The Arcadians is such a fab show and I’m having so much fun popping down to Pembs and revisiting my old haunts!”

Mr Phillips added: “It’s always a source of pride to see former members flourish. It’s even better when they return to share their gifts with the community that nurtured them.”

Performance dates and venues

  • Tuesday 3 June @ 7:30pm – Broad Haven Hall
  • Thursday 5 June @ 7:30pm – Clarbeston Road Hall
  • Saturday 7 June @ 7:30pm – Fishguard Masonic Hall
  • Tuesday 10 June @ 7:30pm – Torch Theatre (Studio)

Running time: 2 hours (including interval)
Family-friendly.
Tickets: £10 (cash on the door). Torch Theatre tickets via Box Office.

Cast and crew:

  • Performer: HOS Musical Theatre Company
  • Guest star: Emily Davis (“Her secret weapon, unquestionably, is her voice” – Cabaret Scenes)
  • Musical Director/Director: Ifor Phillips
  • Assistant Director/Producer: Tracey Crane
  • Pianist: Gerry Nicholas

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

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Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

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Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

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MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

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Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

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Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

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