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Entertainment

Matt Willis launches BBC series on addiction recovery in Wales

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BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Factual Entertainment have announced a powerful new documentary series, Matt Willis: The Recovery Project, which will see the musician and presenter explore addiction and the process of rebuilding lives in recovery.

The three-part series, produced by South Shore Wales, follows the former Busted star as he embarks on a personal and professional mission to challenge the stigma around addiction and design a bold new pilot scheme to help people in recovery find purpose and employment.

Having spoken openly about his own battles with addiction to drugs and alcohol, Willis said the project is something he has wanted to do for many years.

“I know what it’s like to say I am a drug addict, and the stigma that comes with that,” he said. “I know what it’s like to go to rehab, to relapse, and to be given a second chance. This is an exciting opportunity to help others rebuild their lives and change the way we think and talk about addiction and recovery.”

The series will see Willis travel across South Wales – an area facing some of the highest rates of drug- and alcohol-related deaths in the UK – to meet people in recovery, local charities and experts working on the front line. Together, they will explore how meaningful work, community, and long-term support can play a crucial role in helping people turn their lives around.

Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning for BBC Factual Entertainment and Events, said: “When you meet Matt, you see how deeply committed he is to helping others through recovery. Through his own experience, he’s shining a light on the brutal reality of addiction while creating something that could have a lasting impact across the UK.”

Nick Andrews, Head of Commissioning for BBC Cymru Wales, added: “This is another groundbreaking project from the team behind Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams. Matt’s fierce passion to tackle the issues caused by addiction is the driving force behind this ambitious series.”

Sam Grace, Head of South Shore Wales, said the series will tell “a really important Welsh story that will resonate across the UK,” adding: “We’re excited to be working with the BBC on a project that challenges perceptions and shows how a Welsh community can lead the way in supporting those most in need.”

Matt Willis: The Recovery Project (working title) is a South Shore production for BBC Factual Entertainment and Events and BBC Cymru Wales. It was commissioned by Catherine Catton and Nick Andrews, with commissioning editors Ricky Cooper and Sian Harris. Executive producers are Andrew Mackenzie, Naomi Templeton and Sam Grace. The programme has received support from the Welsh Government via Creative Wales.

 

Entertainment

Shakespeare’s ‘mistaken identities’ to appear on outdoor Pembrokeshire stage

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Following the success of last year’s spellbinding production of The Tempest, SPAN Arts is thrilled to welcome back The Festival Players for another evening of open-air Shakespeare in the stunning grounds of Lampeter House, near Narberth. 

Featuring one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays, ‘The Comedy of Errors’ follows two sets of twins, twin brothers and their twin servants, separated by a shipwreck. When they unknowingly arrive in the same town on the same day, a whirlwind of confusion unfolds.

Mistaken identities lead to comic chaos: husbands appear to fall in love with the wrong people, debts go unpaid, and servants lock their masters out of their own homes. As the confusion builds, the play explores themes of identity, family and belonging.

The Festival Players bring this lively farce to life with original live music, fast-paced storytelling, traditional costume and plenty of humour, as part of their 2026 (and 41st) open-air summer theatre tour.

Lampeter House provides the perfect stage for this unforgettable evening. Nestled amongst towering trees and gardens full of character, the intimate amphitheatre setting promises a truly atmospheric experience.

So whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare fan or a newcomer to his work, this performance offers the chance to enjoy world-class theatre under the open skies.

Make your evening complete with a delicious pre-show supper. A hot summer cawl with bread and cheese will be available to pre-order for just £6 while vegetarian and other dietary options are available by simply selecting your preference when booking online or over the phone. A fully stocked bar and refreshments will also be available throughout the evening.

A limited number of mats and ground seating will be provided, but audiences are encouraged to bring their own picnic blankets or low-backed chairs for maximum comfort. As the performance will proceed come rain or shine, please dress appropriately for the weather.

This year’s production takes place on Friday June 12, with the doors opening at 6pm and the performance commencing at 7pm.

Tickets can be reserved on 01834 869323.

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Entertainment

Torch Youth Theatre takes aim with Robin Hood adventure

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OVER 50 young actors will take to the Torch Theatre stage this summer for a new version of the classic Robin Hood tale.

Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight will be performed by members of Torch Youth Theatre across three nights in July, promising adventure, excitement and a few unexpected twists.

The production will feature the familiar ingredients of the much-loved story, with Robin Hood robbing from the rich to give to the poor, the Sheriff of Nottingham causing trouble, and Maid Marian presented as a spirited heroine.

Director Tim Howe said: “All the elements of the story we know and love will be there. Robin Hood robs from the rich and gives to the poor, the Sheriff of Nottingham is up to no good, and Maid Marian is exactly the feisty heroine we all need.

“But it wouldn’t be a Torch Youth Theatre production without some things you won’t be expecting, and we can’t wait to share those surprises with you.”

Youth theatre success

The show follows the record-breaking success of Sycamore Gap and forms part of a busy year of activity for young people at the Torch.

Torch Youth Theatre provides weekly sessions during school term time for young people aged seven to 18. All members are able to take part in the summer production, with no auditions required.

Tim added: “We provide weekly sessions during school term time for young people aged seven to 18, all of whom are able to take part in the summer production – there are no auditions – and booking is now open.

“We also offer activity in the summer when young people can join us for a full week of workshops and rehearsals to create a production which is shared in our studio for their families and friends. So there’s loads of ways to join in with us.”

The Torch Youth Theatre’s sessions and productions aim to develop young people’s theatrical skills while also giving them a space to find their voice, build confidence and learn more about themselves and each other.

Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight will be performed at the Torch Theatre on Monday, July 20, Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30pm.

Tickets cost £10, or £8 for concessions, and are available from torchtheatre.co.uk or the Box Office on 01646 695267.

 

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Entertainment

Music at the Manor to strike a chord with return to Scolton

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YOUNG musicians from across Pembrokeshire will take centre stage next month as Music at the Manor returns to Scolton Manor.

Pembrokeshire Music Service is inviting music lovers to enjoy an evening of live performances in the grounds of the manor on Friday (May 8).

The event will showcase the talents of scores of young musicians from across the county, with performances from Pembrokeshire Music Service’s county ensembles.

These will include the County Orchestra, Wind Band, Brass Band, Training Orchestra with Second Steps, Rock and Pop Band, and Big Band.

There will also be performances from the Community Choir and this year’s Secondary Valero festival winner, drummer Ryan Block from Ysgol Bro Preseli.

Gates open at 4:30pm, with the music starting at 6:00pm.

Tickets are available from ticketsource.co.uk/pembrokeshire-county-council

 

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