Entertainment

Freyja’s ‘Aquantis’ named winner of Torch Theatre’s festive design competition

Published

5 months ago

December 9, 2025

TEN-YEAR-OLD Freyja from St Francis RC School has been crowned the winner of the Torch Theatre’s Design an Evil Sea Creature competition – beating more than 300 imaginative entries that ranged from cyclops creations to fanged dolphins and double-headed stingrays.

Her design, Aquantis, caught the eye of the judges and will now be brought to life on stage in this year’s Christmas pantomime, Rapunzel, at the Torch Theatre.

Freyja said she was “ecstatic” to hear the news.
“It was really good news to have. Drawing and creative writing is something that I enjoy and have a passion for, so to be given this opportunity and to win was incredible. I’d like to say well done to everyone else who entered – it was a fun competition to be part of.”

A sea monster with a story

So what exactly is the Aquantis?

“She was once a tiny kraken with a big heart,” Freyja explained. “She has special powers and shoots slime balls that can paralyse her victims – and during the paralysis phase they are completely under Aquantis’ control. She swims joyfully through the enchanting depths of the sea with a love of exploring every corner of the ocean.”

Freyja said her imagination and a recent snorkelling trip inspired the creature.
“My idea for the Aquantis came through my imagination, after deciding what backstory I wanted to create for her. I can’t say I’ve seen any sea monsters up close, but I’ve recently been snorkelling in the Red Sea so that helped give the Aquantis an edge. I’m really honoured to have been chosen and can’t wait to see it all come together on stage.”

Workshops inspire young artists

This year’s project was delivered in partnership with the Arts Society West Wales, whose representatives joined Torch Theatre professionals for day-long creative workshops in three Milford Haven primary schools. The aim was to help pupils imagine, design and model their own scary sea monsters.

The children’s enthusiasm and creativity were clear throughout the sessions, with dozens of colourful, sci-fi-inspired designs produced. All entries are now on display in the Torch Theatre Gallery.

Torch Theatre’s Artistic Director, Chelsey Gillard, said she was so impressed by the range of ideas that several of the friendlier creatures will also feature in Rapunzel, voiced by members of the Torch Youth Theatre.

Rapunzel this Christmas

Rapunzel runs at the Torch Theatre from Saturday 6 December to Sunday 28 December.
Tickets: £24.50 | £20.00 concessions | £78.00 family.
Relaxed Environment Performance: Saturday 13 December at 2:00pm.
BSL Interpreted Performance (Liz May): Tuesday 16 December, 6:00pm.

Entertainment

Torch Youth Theatre takes aim with Robin Hood adventure

Published

1 day 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

3 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

4 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.