Entertainment

Canolfan Bethlehem set to reach 30 community events during 2025

Published

5 months ago

November 24, 2025

Music nights to support Eisteddfod fundraiser

VOLUNTEERS at Canolfan Bethlehem in Newport say the community’s support has helped the newly reopened centre reach a milestone of 30 talks, markets and performances during 2025.

The former chapel on Upper West Street was purchased by the community and reopened in February as a heritage, arts, culture and Welsh language hub. Since then, the volunteer committee has staged regular monthly events, all of which have been well attended.

The group said the response from both local people and visitors had exceeded expectations, with the programme of activities continuing to grow.

Upcoming concerts

A series of music evenings is planned for the weeks ahead, including fundraising events for the National Eisteddfod, which will come to North Pembrokeshire in August 2026.

The next event takes place on Sunday (Nov 30) with West Wales artists Rhiannon O’Connor and Danny Sioned. Doors open at 6:30pm, with the performance starting at 7:00pm. Entry is £10 on the door. Rhiannon, who featured on S4C’s Y Llais, will join Danny for an evening of acoustic performances inside the old chapel.

On Friday (Dec 6), the centre will welcome acclaimed Pwllheli singer-songwriter Al Lewis. Known for his warm, bilingual folk-pop style, Lewis’ music blends gentle storytelling with reflective songwriting. The event will raise money for the 2026 National Eisteddfod.

Doors open at 6:30pm, with the concert beginning at 7:00pm. Tickets cost £15, with a £12 concession for students and young people. They can be purchased via the Canolfan Bethlehem Facebook page or directly through the ticket link.

Growing community programme

The committee said the centre’s success reflects the hard work of volunteers and the enthusiasm of supporters who have backed the project since the building was saved for community use.

They added that more events will be announced in the new year as Canolfan Bethlehem continues to establish itself as a key cultural venue for Newport and the wider north Pembrokeshire area.

Entertainment

Torch Youth Theatre takes aim with Robin Hood adventure

Published

2 hours ago

April 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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.

Entertainment

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

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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

Entertainment

Three actors bring The Invisible Man to Torch Theatre

Published

3 days ago

April 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SLAPSTICK STAGE FUN

THE THOUGHT of invisibility, and the advantages it might bring, has captured imaginations for generations since H. G. Wells’ classic story was first published.

Now The Invisible Man, adapted for the stage by Derek Webb, is coming to the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven this May, offering audiences an evening of fast-paced slapstick silliness.

Although the story has been adapted many times for film, it is far less often seen on stage. This original and riotous version features 15 characters played by just three energetic actors, with quick costume changes, clever prop work, wacky imagination and plenty of tongue-in-cheek fun.

The production is presented by Our Star Theatre Company, following its successful 2023 UK tour and critically acclaimed sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

The British Theatre Guide praised the show as “high paced throughout”, adding: “An exuberant cast, Daniel Davis, Eleanor Catherine Smart and Sophie Watkins, deserve credit for confidence and maintaining a high pace throughout. Watkins is a talented performer, coaxing the best out of the piece.”

The Invisible Man will be performed at the Torch Theatre on Wednesday, May 13, at 7:30pm.

Tickets are priced at £18 and can be booked online at torchtheatre.co.uk or through the Box Office on 01646 695267.