Entertainment
Pobol y Cwm unveils 50th anniversary celebratory tours
BBC CYMRU WALES has announced the opening of its Pobol y Cwm set to the public, to mark the series’ 50th anniversary in October.
Tickets have been released at bbc.co.uk/pobolycwm – giving fans a special opportunity to celebrate the big birthday together, behind the scenes at Cwmderi, the fictional village filmed at BBC Studios Wales’ centre in Cardiff Bay.
As well as taking a peek around the interior iconic sets at the drama studios, the exclusive 50th anniversary tours will visit the well-known main street, offering guests a taste of life at Pobol y Cwm, the BBC’s longest-running television soap opera that has been broadcast on S4C since 1982. The series was first broadcast on 16 October 1974 and the studios are usually closed to the public.
Series Producer Dafydd Llewelyn says, “There’s been such a demand for these tours and we’re absolutely delighted to be opening our doors again on such a momentous occasion in the history of the series. We look forward to welcoming everyone here.”
The bilingual tours will allow guests to follow in the footsteps of the characters and to see the exact locations where the banter and bickering, and the laughter and tears take place.
Pobol y Cwm’s actors including Jonathan Nefydd (Colin), Sera Cracroft (Eileen) an Dyfan Rees (Iolo) are excited to lead the tours and there will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions as they take in the sights around the famous studios. There will be a different set of actors every day leading the tours.
The series has nurtured the talent of some of Wales’s biggest stars – including Hollywood actor Ioan Gruffydd, West End and television star, Iwan Rheon and film and television star, Alexandra Roach – who all honed their craft on Pobol y Cwm.
During the anniversary week, S4C will broadcast many special programmes to note the occasion and events will mark the series’ 50th. This includes a special anniversary programme on Wednesday, 16th October at 8pm on S4C, Clic and BBC iPlayer.
Tickets are available online now at bbc.co.uk/pobolycwm and the tours will be held Saturday 12 October, Sunday 13 October, Thursday 17 October, Friday 18 October and Saturday 19 October. Eight tours will be hosted every day with British Sign Language (BSL)/Welsh and English interpretation on Sunday 13 October.
Gwenllian Gravelle, S4C’s Head of Film & Drama, says, “I’m sure our audience will grab this unique opportunity to step on Wales’ most iconic high street. It will be an unforgettable experience and a great way to celebrate Pobol y Cwm’s special 50th birthday.”
Sian Gwynedd, Head of Culture and Partnerships, BBC Cymru Wales says, “It’s brilliant, on such a significant birthday, to welcome some of our viewers to Cwmderi and to give them a sneak peek, behind the scenes, at one of Wales’ best-known streets! The series has long held a special place in the hearts of viewers across Wales and it’s a wonderful opportunity for them to play a part in the celebrations and to meet some of the actors. I’m sure it’ll be a day to remember.”
Entertainment
Theatre company in mourning for costume queen matriarch, Linda Ogilvie-Davies
Pembrokeshire theatre company FADDS has dropped the curtain on its annual post-Christmas pantomime following the death of costume matriarch Linda Ogilvie-Davies who died at Withybush Hospital on December 6.
The FADDS production company planned to open Aladdin later this month, however the production has now been postponed, as a mark of respect to Linda.
A native of Chicago, she moved to London where she worked for Jasper Conran as well as being a buyer for Harvey Nichols.
Following her move to Fishguard, she got involved with FADDS and spent the next 20 years creating costumes for all of the company’s shows. She volunteered at the theatre as well as at the local animal welfare shop and every Christmas, she allowed the town’s Christmas tree to be plugged into her electric supply.
“Linda would help everybody and quietly waved her magic wand, helping so many people without even realising it,” said theatre member, Sharon Jenkins.
“She really was a matriarch of the FADDS theatre group.”
This was endorsed by FADDS director, Jana Davidson.
“Not only was she our costume queen but she was also our matriarch, mentor, supporter and, most importantly our friend,” she said.
“She had a way of connecting with everyone, whatever background or age and was adored by the youth. Her no nonsense, firm but fair attitude was met with the highest respect from everyone, and she was adored by us all.
“She leaves an immeasurable hole in our FADDS family, but we know she will shine down on us always, and her legacies will continue.”
Aladdin will be the company’s 30th pantomime at Theatr Gwaun. For information on when it will now be performed, visit FADDS Production Company on Facebook.
Entertainment
Body slamming entertainment at the Torch Theatre!
FROM Port Talbot to Llanelli and Porthcawl to Lampeter, the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling are on the road around the country and are getting ready to rumble! They’ll bring their live body slamming family entertainment show to the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, for a one-night extravaganza that you won’t want to miss!
Since its establishment in 2005, Welsh Wrestling has cemented its status as the number one wrestling promotion in Wales, running top quality wrestling shows all over the country in some of the most prestigious venues and theatres. Throughout each year the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling perform in front of several thousand fans, guaranteeing each paying customer of all ages a fun, action-packed, family night out.
Witness the wrestling extravaganza at the Torch that’s guaranteed to get children (and adults) screaming and cheering for their favourite wrestler and making memories that last a lifetime. Pop down to the Torch and witness the glamour and chaos in this showcase of entertainment and athleticism in a memorable family night out.
The Welsh Wrestling Facebook page has information on its Wales tour with positive feedback from several audience members with one being quoted as saying:
“What a fantastic night. My two grandsons loved every minute of the show. A great show designed with families in mind. I will highly recommend this to all friends and family. Thanks for a great evening!”
Welsh Wrestling will be live at the Torch Theatre wrestling ring on Sunday 23 February at 5pm. Ticket prices: Family: £45. Adult: £15. Child: £12. For tickets phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.
Entertainment
How to choose your first computer setup
Choosing the right computer setup can be incredibly tricky. To help you make an informed decision, here are a few things to consider when choosing a computer setup.
Usage
Different devices offer various benefits. So, when determining which device to select, the first thing to think about is its primary function.
Work
If you’re purchasing a computer primarily for work purposes, a device that is capable of running multiple applications concurrently whilst retaining speed and ease of use would be beneficial. If you travel for work, you also need to consider portability.
Creative activities
If you need a computer for more creative endeavours such as video editing, music production, or graphic design, you should look at devices that can cope with the demands of editing and production software. Search for devices with a powerful CPU (central processing unit), plenty of RAM (random access memory), and significant storage capacity.
Gaming
If gaming is your main concern, opting for something with high-performance graphics, generous RAM, fast processors, and adequate cooling capabilities would be favourable. However, if your gaming habits consist of something lighter, such as playing simple online casino games or web browser games, these additions are less essential.
General use
If you will primarily be using your computer to facilitate day-to-day activities such as online shopping, basic streaming services, and generally browsing the web, then something simple and easy to use might be a better fit.
Type of device: Laptop vs desktop
Laptops and desktops both have their pros and cons, but one will generally be more suitable than the other, depending on your requirements.
Desktops
Typically, desktop devices offer enhanced performance, more durability, better customisation, and are easier to upgrade in comparison to laptops. However, they do require more space and can be more expensive to purchase upfront.
Laptops
Laptops on the other hand, are much more convenient, providing complete portability. They’re also generally lower in price than desktop PCs. However, laptops are limited when it comes to upgrades and may need to be replaced sooner than a desktop.
Which is best?
If you need something portable and convenient and aren’t using it for activities which require more power, a laptop may be a more suitable option. If you need something with more power and are looking for durability and longevity, a desktop PC might be more appropriate.
Budget
Budget also plays a significant role in choosing your computer setup. Before making a decision, consider whether you want to spend a little more on a long-term setup or opt for something that is slightly more affordable upfront but can potentially be upgraded later down the line.
Where to purchase a laptop or PC
There are plenty of dedicated computer shops in Wales that can lend you a hand in making the right decision for your needs. Alternatively, if you want to keep costs down, consider shopping for deals or looking for second hand devices on a site such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
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