Entertainment

From Saundersfoot to the spotlight: Local star makes West End debut

Published

2 years ago

March 30, 2024

IN a tale of a local talent making it big, Tom Griffiths, a 29-year-old from Tenby, has become the talk of Pembrokeshire after securing a coveted position in the bustling heart of London’s Theatre Land. Griffiths, a devoted member of the Saundersfoot Footlights, an amateur dramatic society revered for its vibrant contributions to local culture, has taken a giant leap into professional theatre.

Starting at the tender age of 11, Griffiths first made his mark in the world of theatre as part of the Lollipop Guild in the beloved production of “Wizard of Oz.” This marked the beginning of an illustrious journey with the Saundersfoot Footlights, where he has featured in almost every Christmas pantomime and summer musical since. His dedication remained unwavering through his university years, often jumping into roles at the last minute to ensure the show went on.

This steadfast commitment and passion for the stage recently led him to a dream opportunity – working backstage for the electrifying “Back to the Future, the Musical” at The Adelphi Theatre in London’s iconic West End. The show, celebrated for its spectacular, high-voltage performances, achieved its 1000th show in January and has been extended due to popular demand.

The community and Griffiths’ mentors at Saundersfoot Footlights, including the late Ceri Morris and Keith Williams, as well as his father, Andrew Griffiths, who recently became Head of Set, have expressed immense pride in his achievements. Griffiths’ story is a testament to the society’s nurturing environment and its pivotal role in shaping future talents for the broader stages.

Griffiths is set to return to his roots soon, visiting the Saundersfoot Footlights during their upcoming production of “Addams Family, the Musical” at the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, running from May 27th to June 1st. His journey from Saundersfoot to the West End is an inspiring reminder of the impact of local theatre communities in fostering talent that can shine on the world’s biggest stages.

For those interested in supporting local theatre and possibly catching a glimpse of Griffiths during his visit, tickets for “Addams Family, the Musical” can be booked through the society’s website or its Facebook page, where updates on the production are regularly posted.

This story not only highlights Griffiths’ remarkable journey but also serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring actors within and beyond Pembrokeshire, proving that with dedication, even the loftiest dreams can be within reach.

Entertainment

Welcome to Wrexham renewed for three more seasons

Published

1 day ago

April 11, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hit documentary charting Wrexham AFC’s remarkable rise under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney will continue as the club closes in on the Premier League

THE HIT football documentary Welcome to Wrexham has been renewed for a further three seasons, extending the story of the Welsh club’s extraordinary revival under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

The series, which first aired in 2022, has followed Wrexham AFC’s transformation since the two actors bought the club for £2 million in February 2021. Since then, the team has secured three successive promotions, climbing from the National League to the Championship.

From the beginning, Reynolds and McElhenney made no secret of their ambition to take Wrexham all the way to the Premier League. With the club now just one division below the top flight, that goal is looking more realistic than ever.

Reynolds announced the latest renewal news to his huge Instagram following, telling fans that season five will premiere on May 14 and confirming that the programme has been commissioned for three more runs.

The documentary, produced by FX and available in the UK on Disney+, has proved a major success with audiences and critics alike. It has won 10 Emmy Awards as well as two Critics’ Choice Television Awards.

Wrexham’s rise has become one of the most talked-about stories in British football, with the documentary helping to bring global attention to the club and the city itself.

Last year, manager Phil Parkinson said the presence of Reynolds and McElhenney at the club had helped lift the whole atmosphere around the place, underlining the impact they have had both on and off the pitch.

Entertainment

Medieval warriors return to Pembroke Castle this weekend

Published

1 day ago

April 11, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Historia Normannis Wales brings combat displays, Norman justice and living history to the famous fortress

PEMBROKE Castle is stepping back into the 12th century this weekend as Historia Normannis Wales returns for two days of living history.

The event, taking place on Saturday (Apr 11) and Sunday (Apr 12), promises visitors an immersive glimpse into medieval Britain, with reenactors recreating the sights, smells and sounds of the Norman age within the castle grounds.

Among the attractions planned are a medieval fashion show, a Shire Court, combat displays and an arming of the knight demonstration, giving families and history enthusiasts the chance to see how people lived, fought and were judged in Norman times.

The weekend forms part of Pembroke Castle’s wider Easter programme and is included with normal admission.

Pembroke Castle said it was delighted to welcome Historia Normannis Wales back for another weekend of “real life medieval experiences”.

One of the best-known historic attractions in west Wales, Pembroke Castle was founded in 1093 and is famous as the birthplace of Henry VII.

The castle remains a major draw for visitors to Pembrokeshire, and this weekend’s event is expected to be popular with families looking for something different during the Easter break.

The event is included with normal castle admission, with standard ticket prices from £13 for adults and £9 for children, while online bookings receive a 10 per cent discount.

Community

Comedy in the Pavilion: Elis James at Eisteddfod y Garreg Las

Published

1 day ago

April 11, 2026

Richard Lewis

COMEDIAN Elis James will take to the Pavilion stage at the National Eisteddfod for the first time this year, performing on Wednesday, August 5 as part of the festival programme. Entry to the gig is included in the Maes day ticket, and with strong roots in the area, his return promises an evening of laughter and a warm homecoming atmosphere.

Famous for making quick connections with people from across Wales on his podcast ‘Elis & John’ on BBC Sounds, Elis will no doubt receive a warm welcome at the National Eisteddfod, arguably one of the best places in the world to connect with fellow Welsh people. With his observational comedy, often inspired by his upbringing in west Wales, this is expected to be an evening full of humour, marking the halfway point of the Eisteddfod week.

Elis said: “I’m very excited. I’ve never done stand-up in the Pavilion before. Mam will be there, I’m sure other members of the family will be there too, but don’t worry, I’m one of those people who is funny under pressure!”

Betsan Moses, the Eisteddfod’s Chief Executive, added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Elis back home to the Garreg Las area.

“As a Welsh comedy giant, we’re looking forward to a night of humour in his company, reflecting the true spirit of the Eisteddfod.”

Elis was born in Haverfordwest and raised in Carmarthen. He’s a comedian, podcast presenter, actor and broadcaster. Since 2014, he’s presented a radio show with his friend and fellow comedian, John Robins, originally on Radio X before moving to BBC 5 Live in 2019.

Among the UK’s most popular comedians, Elis toured Wales with his show Derwydd in 2024, recording a performance at Carmarthen’s Lyric Theatre. He has since returned to English‑language stand‑up after a ten‑year break.

Day Maes tickets, which include admission to the gig, are available on the Eisteddfod website.

Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las will be held in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire between August 1 and August 8.