Entertainment

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

Published

1 month 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

New card game ‘Tenby’ set to arrive soon!

Published

17 hours ago

April 30, 2024

Luke Sinclair

TENBY is a captivating game that combines card drafting and strategic placement. Despite its abstract nature, it immerses players in the charm of the seaside town it’s named after, thanks to vibrant illustrations and recognisable landmarks.

The gameplay of Tenby focuses on tactics rather than luck. Players draft cards from a display and strategically place them in rows, following specific placement rules to maximise their scores based on feature adjacency. It’s quite the brain-teaser.

What makes Tenby truly stand out is its innovative action drafting system. Each round, players select actions from a shifting pool of cards, determining the turn order for the next round as well. This adds depth and strategy to each decision.

Tenby is suitable for all player counts, though it primarily offers a multiplayer-solitaire experience, which I personally appreciate. Turns are quick, ensuring there’s always something to ponder during downtime.

The vector art, while not my usual preference, bursts with colour and complements the game perfectly. I particularly enjoy the witty puns, such as the “Uptown Swirl” ice cream parlour!

It’s easy to learn and teach, with intuitive iconography. The unique action drafting mechanic adds layers of depth, and the vibrant art and theme increase its appeal.

After careful consideration, I struggled to find any downsides. Any suggestions I had are already on the designer’s to-do list, including an exciting solo mode!

For more information visit www.cosycubgames.com/games

Entertainment

Create a dried meadow flower artwork at Roch Castle

Published

20 hours ago

April 30, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROCH CASTLE near St Davids is hosting a workshop to create a dried meadow flower wall artwork to adorn your home on Sunday, May 19 (12pm-2pm).

During the two-hour session you will learn how to fill a 40cm x 30cm natural wood frame with your chosen mix of dried flowers, grasses and seed heads.

Most of the flowers have been grown and dried by Karen MacKechnie from the Floral Goat on her Pembrokeshire farm, with some additional stems sourced from other British flower farmers.

Places at the dried flower meadow workshop, which will be led by Karen, are priced at £70 per person to include all materials as well as tea/coffee and Welshcakes. Book online via Roch Castle’s website www.rochcastle.com or call 01437 725 566.

Free parking is available on-site but as space is limited please car share where possible. As a 12^th century castle, access within Roch Castle is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.

Entertainment

Music at the Manor returns for an exciting evening of entertainment

Published

5 days ago

April 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE MUSIC SERVICE is proud to announce the return of Music at the Manor on Friday 10^th May at Scolton Manor for an evening of fantastic entertainment.

More than 150 Pembrokeshire young musicians will showcase their talents in the beautiful surroundings of Scolton.

This is the third Music at the Manor event, expanding on the success of previous years to bring an exciting evening of musical celebration from across Pembrokeshire.

Gates open at 4.30pm for a 6pm start and guests are invited to bring a chair or blanket and arrive in plenty of time to relax, soak up the atmosphere and grab something to eat.

Food lovers will be well catered for with Daps Baps, Pembs Pizza co and Worley’s Ice-creams on hand and Absolute Events Bars to provide a drink to enjoy along with the music.

Face painting by the talented Gabrielle Swales will also be on offer.

Performing are: