Entertainment

Gogglebocs Cymru star Molara is local celebrity in home village of Crymych

Published

9 months ago

February 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A HIT reality TV programme has turned a Pembrokeshire mum-of-two into a local celebrity

Molara Awen, 58, from Crymych, is one of the stars of the Welsh language version of Gogglebocs.

She appears on Gogglebocs Cymru with her daughter, Maisie, 21, and son Finn, 23.

The series – where ordinary people voice their opinions about a range of television programmes – is broadcast on S4C on Wednesdays at 9pm.

When she goes to her local shop or the garage for fuel near her home friends and neighbours often want to chat with her about the show

“They’ll say things like ‘Oh we saw you on the television last night’ or ‘I didn’t know you were on it’ and then they will ask me what programmes we’ve been watching and what I think about the programmes and what will be featured in the next show.

“Most of them are really interested in Gogglebocs Cymru and are fascinated about how the programme is made. They seem to think we film it ourselves and don’t realise there’s a film crew in the room as well,” she laughed.

“Because the children live outside Wales they don’t get the same attention as I do at home in Pembrokeshire but their friends have commented about it to them on social media or when they’ve met.

“It never occurred to me that we would attract any attention but it has been is pretty manageable,” she said.

A noted singer, choirmaster and diversity activist, Molara found a new love of Welsh culture through taking part in the popular programme.

Now some of the people she meets ask her for suggestions of what programmes to watch on S4C and other channels.

“I’m quite specific about what I watch and always record programmes to watch when I want and not when they’re on. I don’t enjoy quiz programmes at all and I’m certainly not a Pobol y Cwm type person but I enjoy quality drama series like Y Gwyll.

“I enjoyed Pren ar y Bryn, that was really good, a quirky, off the wall series and Gwesty Aduniad was good too,” she said.

Originally from Glossop in Derbyshire, Molara started learning the Welsh language after moving to Pembrokeshire more than 25 years ago.

“I’m a Welsh learner and am quite fluent although I still go to classes so it’s good for me to be watching TV in Welsh.

“It was quite funny when the tutor asked what we were going to be doing before the next class and I said I’d be going on national television to speak about what I’ve been watching on S4C.

Molara takes part in Gogglebocs Cymru in Bristol where her children now live and work. Maisie is studying to become a mechanical engineer at the Royal United Hospital in Bath and Finn works in a bar.

Gogglebocs Cymru is made by two Gwynedd-based television production companies, Cwmni Da, in Caernarfon, and Chwarel, from Cricieth.

It’s the first time Studio Lambert and Channel 4 have licensed the Gogglebox franchise to another UK-based broadcaster.

The programme is filmed in the homes of the as the cast as they view the week’s chosen programmes.

They cover a broad spectrum of programmes from S4C, other channels and streaming services ranging from gripping drama to popular quiz shows.

The footage is then edited ready for broadcast on the Wednesday evening and narrated by comedian and broadcaster Tudur Owen.

Series Producer Huw Maredudd, of Cwmni Da, said: “This is a continuation of the series which started before Christmas with the same group of people as before taking part.

“There were some wonderful moments during those programmes and some great comments were made about the various television programmes and there was a warm response to them on social media.

“The viewing figures were also excellent and the programmes we feature enjoy a boost to their viewing figures as well..

“Of course, we don’t expect all the featured programmes to be enjoyed by everyone but we hope that the fact they are all having fun watching the programmes gathered around the TV set together comes through.”

Huw added because the series is continuing there will be no new elements to the programmes but he expects to provide the cast and viewers with a few surprises.

“Something we’re doing for the first time is watching a live programme. The annual Can i Gymru programme is broadcast live on S4C on St David’s Day, March 1 and we’ll be watching along with the regulars and we’ll have their reactions to that on the following Wednesday,” he said.

Gogglebocs Cymru is broadcast on S4C on Wednesdays at 9pm. English subtitles will be available and the programme can also be viewed on S4C Clic, BBC iPlayer and other streaming platforms.

Pictured: Molara Awen with her daughter, Maisie, 21, and son Finn, 23 (Image: S4C)

Entertainment

Valero supports Torch Theatre’s boldest pantomime yet

Published

4 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WITH just a week to go before the festive pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk opens its curtains, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is proud to announce Valero Energy Corporation as its pantomime sponsor for 2024.

Attracting around 10,000 attendees annually, the Torch’s pantomime has become a cornerstone of Pembrokeshire’s festive season. Last year’s production of Sleeping Beauty set new audience records, and this year’s show promises even greater excitement.

Community engagement through theatre
The pantomime is not only a spectacle but also a significant educational opportunity. Approximately 4,000 schoolchildren and teachers are expected to attend, with tailored educational packs distributed to schools to enhance the experience. Public performances draw over 6,000 enthusiastic audience members, creating a lively atmosphere filled with singing, clapping, and cheering.

Chelsey Gillard, Artistic Director of the Torch Theatre, expressed her gratitude for Valero’s support:
“We are thrilled to be working with Valero to bring the magic of pantomime to the Torch once again. This support allows us to keep ticket prices affordable, ensuring the festive spirit reaches communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Tickets are selling fast, especially during Christmas week, and we look forward to welcoming everyone.”

Valero’s commitment to the arts
Founded in 1980, Valero Energy Corporation is the world’s largest independent petroleum refiner and a global leader in renewable energy. Since acquiring Pembroke Refinery in 2011, the company has fostered strong ties with the local community.

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of Pembroke Refinery, which has a long tradition of supporting the arts in Pembrokeshire,” said Stephen Thornton, Valero Pembroke Refinery’s Public Affairs Manager.
“There’s no finer tradition at Christmas than pantomime. Jack and the Beanstalk is a firm family favourite, and we’re thrilled to support this season’s production at the Torch. Excellence and inclusivity are at the heart of Valero’s ethos, aligning perfectly with the Torch Theatre’s family-friendly productions.”

A festive tradition for all
Chelsey added: “Panto is the most vibrant part of our year at the Torch, and we are so excited to be working with Valero on Jack and the Beanstalk. A huge thank you to everyone at Valero for their generous support.”

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the Torch Theatre from Friday, December 13, to Sunday, December 29, with matinee and evening performances. Tickets are priced at £23.50, £19.50 for concessions, or £75 for a family ticket. Special performances include a Relaxed Environment show on Saturday, December 14, at 2:00pm, and a BSL-supported show on Tuesday, December 17, at 6:00pm.

For tickets and more information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Bringing magic to life: The Torch Theatre’s bold pantomime supported by Valero Energy Corporation. (Image: Chris Lloyd Photography)

Entertainment

World-famous King’s College choirmen to perform in St Davids

Published

10 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FOR many, Christmas begins with the magical sound of carols from King’s College, Cambridge. This year, a week before their globally broadcast performance on BBC TV and radio, the lower voices of King’s Choir—known as The King’s Men—will make their first-ever appearance in Pembrokeshire.

Their performance, titled Sing Christmas!, promises an enchanting evening of traditional carols and nostalgic Christmas classics delivered in stunning close harmonies.

A special connection to Pembrokeshire
This extraordinary event is hosted by Pembrokeshire-based professional musician Quentin Poole. A former Head Chorister of King’s College Choir, Quentin gained national recognition as a guest on Desert Island Discs on Boxing Day 1970. Now, he brings the renowned choir to St Davids Tabernacle, Cross Square, for a one-night-only performance on Wednesday, December 18, at 7:30pm—just six days before their iconic live Christmas Eve broadcast.

Reserve your seats early
Tickets for this unique festive performance are £25 each, payable in cash at the door, which opens at 7:00pm. Seating is unallocated, so early arrival is recommended.

Due to anticipated high demand, advance booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. To reserve your seats, email [email protected].

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the magic of King’s College Choir in the heart of Pembrokeshire!

Advertorial

André Rieu’s 2024 Christmas Concert

Published

5 days ago

November 29, 2024

Richard Lewis

CELEBRATE the holiday season with André Rieu’s dazzling Christmas Concert, “Gold
and Silver,” exclusively in cinemas and on the Torch Theatre screen on Saturday 7
and Sunday 8 of December! This magical event embodies the festive spirit of
Christmas, bringing joy, warmth, and sparkle to the big screen.

Get ready to be transported to the wondrous world of enchanting glamour that is
André’s winter wonderland! Under the sparkle of 150 chandeliers and 50 Venetian
candelabras, feel your heart warm with the magical melody of all your favourite
Christmas classics.

André Rieu will be joined on stage by his beloved Johann Strauss Orchestra, along
with special guest artists and the young and talented Emma Kok.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate music, love, and Christmas sparkle, with André
Rieu’s new Christmas Concert “Gold and Silver” at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven
on Saturday 7 December at 7pm and Sunday 8 December at 2pm.

André Rieu’s 2024 Christmas Concert: Gold and Silver ticket prices: £20 / £19
concessions. To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office
on 01646 695267 or visit the Torch Theatre website.