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The magic of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ hits new heights

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I’ve seen a fair few pantos in my day and my goodness, when it comes to sheer quality from the bar bell to the final curtain, the Torch’s 2024 offering is right up there in the illuminated rankings.

Without putting too fine a point upon it, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ is one mightily crafted production which bears the unmistakable hallmark of artistic director Chelsey Gillard.

This woman has created a production where the characters are vying for the crown of glory alongside Gillard’s exceptionally energised script, her highly original ideas (such as the fabulous milking sketch and Pat the Cow’s psychic powers with the wind turbines), which are all moulded together with a highly comedic and some outrageously innuendo humour.

At the risk of offending, it has to be said that so many pantomimes (particularly those which invest in those ‘big’ A listers who occasionally can’t act, sing or dance for toffee), invariably have characters which fall into three performance categories – the exceptionally good, the miserably bad and the downright depressingly ugly.  But the Torch’s ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ is blindingly consistent in its cast quality.

Enter Lloyd Grayshon, who from the moment he flounced into the theatre as Mrs Trott, he engaged instantaneously with his audience (especially the fantastic Liam in Row G!)

My goodness, does Grayshon absorb his character, yet not once did he over-stage nor overshadow the others. Special mention has to go to his vocal duets with Jack (Gareth Elis) with both singers displaying some gorgeous harmonies, some crystal clear vocal ranges and some strong musical energy. The pantomime’s music and lyrics were written by Pembrokeshire-based composer James Williams, who must be applauded for some fabulously catchy songs and arrangements, all assisted by musical director Sarah Benbow.

Fairy Gabby Greenfingers was played by eminent actor and choreographer Elena Carys-Thomas, who has performed extensively with S4C, the National Theatre Wales, the Sherman Theatre and the Welsh National Opera.  Wearing that delicious skirt made of sprout leaves (I love it!) Elena spun her beautiful charm into the production with her sing-sing north Walian accent, a smattering of Welsh words and a huge charisma.

Meanwhile Carri Munn (Pat the Cow), gave us a beautifully measured performance and some  impeccable timings which resulted in everyone falling in love with her.  Munn’s ability as a stand-up comedian was obvious throughout her solo stint prior to the final scene where she played the audience with true skill.

But perhaps the couple that deserve the biggest round of applause are those delicious Kevin and Perry wannabes, namely Agz and Tez Fleshcreep (Freya Dare and Samuel Freeman).

What a duo!  Their facial expressions batted off one another while their command of the stage was exceptional, thanks once again, to Chelsey Gillard’s exceptional directions and Freya’s beautiful agility.  

So if anyone hasn’t yet booked their tickets, trot along to The Torch and make sure that your Christmas will be even more special because at the end of the day, that Jack and the Beanstalk team really are magical!

 

News

Local rugby talent Osian Williams selected for Wales Under-20 clash with England

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A FORMER Haverfordwest Blues junior has earned international honours after being selected to represent Wales Under-20 rugby union team in their fixture against England.

Osian Williams, who began his rugby journey at Haverfordwest Rugby Football Club, will pull on the red jersey this evening in what marks a proud milestone for both the player and the Pembrokeshire club that helped develop his talent.

Club members said the call-up reflects years of hard work, commitment and steady progress through the ranks, with Williams recognised locally for his determination and performances on the pitch from a young age.

A spokesperson for Haverfordwest RFC said the whole club is “incredibly proud” to see one of their own step onto the international stage.

They added that it is always special to watch former junior players progress to represent their country, describing Williams’ selection as “fully deserved” and an inspiration to the next generation coming through the Blues’ youth setup.

The match against England provides a stern test for the young Welsh side, but for Williams and his family it is also a moment to savour after years of dedication to the sport.

Friends, coaches and former teammates are expected to be cheering him on from Pembrokeshire as he makes his mark in Welsh colours.

Photo caption:

Osian Williams has been selected to play for Wales Under-20s against England (Pic: Supplied).

 

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Crime

Man arrested for murder following death of pensioner in Pembroke Dock

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Officers called to Hawkstone Road property as investigation continues and residents urged to come forward

DYFED-POWYS POLICE officers have launched a murder investigation following the sudden death of an eighty-five-year-old man at a property in Hawkstone Road, Pembroke Dock.

Emergency services were called at approximately 1:30pm today (Friday, Feb 6).

Officers attended the scene and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.

A man in his forties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while the investigation continues.

Anyone with information that could assist officers is urged to come forward.

Information can be provided online, by 101.

Quote reference: 212 of February 6.

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website.

 

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Education

Second west Wales school placed in lockdown within days

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Precautionary measures activated at Ysgol Brynteg after morning disturbance outside gates

CARMARTHENSHIRE pupils were kept inside classrooms after a precautionary lockdown was triggered at Ysgol Brynteg on Friday morning (Feb 6), marking the second west Wales secondary school to enter lockdown in the same week.

Police were called shortly after 9:00am following reports of a verbal altercation outside the school grounds.

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended and the Llanelli school activated its safeguarding procedures while the situation was assessed.

No weapons were reported, no injuries have been confirmed and there have been no arrests at this stage. The incident is understood to have involved a dispute outside the site rather than inside the school itself.

Pupils remained indoors under staff supervision while officers made checks. Once police were satisfied there was no ongoing risk, the lockdown was lifted and lessons continued as normal.

A spokesperson said the measure was purely precautionary.

The incident comes just days after armed officers were deployed to Milford Haven School following a serious assault on a teacher, prompting a temporary closure and widespread concern among parents.

While the circumstances in Llanelli were far less severe, the two events occurring so close together have heightened anxiety among families across west Wales.

Schools routinely use lockdown procedures when there is any uncertainty or potential threat nearby, even if the risk later proves minimal. The approach is designed to err on the side of caution and protect pupils while emergency services investigate.

Parents were informed that Brynteg was safe and operating normally once the situation had been resolved.

There is currently no indication that pupils inside the school were directly involved in the disturbance.

The Herald understands enquiries are ongoing.

Both incidents underline how quickly everyday school days can be disrupted, and how safeguarding responses are increasingly becoming part of standard practice across Welsh schools.

Anyone with information about the Llanelli incident is asked to contact police.

 

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