Entertainment

Loud cheers for Torch Theatre youth members

Published

9 months ago

March 18, 2025

“I THINK this was one of, if not my favourite theatre performance at the Torch and I fully want to see this crew perform more like this in future.” That was the verdict of Riley, one of the Torch Theatre’s junior reviewers, after watching Ravers.

Presented as part of the National Theatre Connections programme, the production saw Pembrokeshire’s young performers take to the stage for three shows, each met with a standing ovation.

The light-hearted new play, written by Rikki Beadle-Blair, was part of the Torch Youth Theatre’s spring production. It invited audiences to see the world through the eyes of awkward teenagers, as a group of so-called “Neeks” (Nerds and Geeks) organised a rave at the Torch Theatre. Following months of rehearsals and plenty of fun along the way, the near sell-out performances were well supported by parents and the local community.

Tim Howe, director of the production and Senior Manager for Youth and Community at the Torch, said: “We are incredibly proud of our young people. The performances were very well supported, and the young people were just brilliant, totally brilliant. It was all about teamwork, wellbeing, and making friends, and we can’t wait to show off just how incredible they are in Aberystwyth when we tour the show.”

One young actor described Ravers as “loud but good, enjoyable and expressive.” Another added: “The Torch is always introducing us to new skills to help us in the performing arts industry, whilst also being a comfort place where we can laugh and get to know each other.”

The cast has been working hard on Ravers since September and will perform at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Saturday, April 12.

Meanwhile, the Torch Theatre is now preparing for its Summer Youth Theatre term, which will culminate in a full youth theatre production of The Bangers and Chips Explosion. The programme, open to young people aged seven to 18, offers weekly skill-building sessions aimed at developing confidence, teamwork, and creativity.

Tim added: “During our summer term, every child gets the chance to take part in our flagship main house production. This year, we are incredibly pleased to be presenting a rip-roaring comedy about school pupils who go on strike because the dinner lady won’t cook them chips… with explosive results! Our sessions aren’t just about acting and theatre; we ensure our young people learn social skills, problem-solving, and teamwork. Most importantly, they have fun and make new friends.”

The Torch Theatre is seeking sponsors to support its youth programme. Anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch.

“We’d love to hear from you and see how your support can help develop the next generation,” Tim said.

The Summer Youth Theatre term starts on Tuesday, April 29.

Entertainment

Filming for new season of S4C crime drama Cleddau returns to Pembrokeshire

Published

1 day ago

December 3, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Production crew spotted in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton as series set for 2026 release

FILMING has returned to Pembrokeshire this week for the next season of Cleddau — the hit S4C crime drama released in English as The One That Got Away.

The production crew has been seen in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton capturing new scenes for the upcoming 2026 series. Local photographer Gareth Davies shared images of the team working along the estuary, describing “a real buzz” in the area as cast and crew returned after the success of the first season.

Crime thriller rooted in the Cleddau estuary

Cleddau follows a murder investigation that reopens buried secrets in a quiet west Wales community. The show has been praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances and striking use of local Pembrokeshire scenery — with the Cleddau estuary itself forming a central part of the series’ identity.

Residents have reported seeing cameras and production vehicles around familiar walking routes, waterfront areas and estuary-side villages as the crew makes full use of the landscape that inspired the show’s name.

Local interest and economic boost

The return of filming has been welcomed locally, bringing attention, visitors and activity into communities along the waterway. For many residents, the excitement lies in spotting familiar places on screen when the new season airs next year.

The new series of Cleddau is expected to be broadcast in 2026.

Entertainment

Cardigan Theatre brings Beauty and the Beast to Mwldan this Christmas

Published

3 days ago

December 1, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Festive panto promises magic, music and family fun

CARDIGAN Theatre is set to bring festive magic to Theatre Mwldan this Christmas with a fun-filled production of Beauty and the Beast, running from 21–29 December. The pantomime is written and directed by Jonathon Preece and promises all the traditional panto sparkle audiences love.

The story follows once-proud Prince Louis (Emily Davies), who angers Agatha the Evil Enchantress (Kelly Lewis). As punishment for his selfishness, she transforms him into the fearsome Beast (Steve Green). His only hope of breaking the spell is to find true love – or remain a beast forever.

Meanwhile, brave and kind-hearted Belle (Ruby Lemoine) sets out to rescue her eccentric father Marcel (Tom Loveday) who on his way to the “Big Invention Competition”, gets lost and stumbles into the enchanted castle and is taken prisoner by the Beast. Determined to save him, Belle is joined by her loyal friend Jaques, the village silly billy (Sarah Harris), flamboyant Dame Madam Fromage (Rhys Davies), and Gavin (Paul Robinson), the vain village heart-throb who is convinced Belle should marry him!

Inside the castle, Belle encounters a host of enchanted objects, including Tick Tock (Lilwen), Flambe (Bryce), and Mrs Kettle (Manon), who provide humour, magic and plenty of encouragement as they try to help the Beast win Belle’s heart and break Agatha’s curse.

With songs, jokes, colourful characters and plenty of audience participation, the production promises festive fun for all ages.

Beauty and the Beast runs at Theatre Mwldan from 21–29 December. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Cardigan Theatre can be followed on Facebook and Instagram for updates on future shows.

Entertainment

Glow returns to Carew Castle with magical illuminations and Santa’s grotto

Published

4 days ago

November 30, 2025

Tom Sinclair

CAREW CASTLE and Tidal Mill has launched its annual Christmas spectacular, with the first night of Glow transforming the historic fortress into a shimmering winter wonderland.

The medieval walls are now bathed in colour, with vivid light displays bringing new life to one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors on opening night were greeted by glowing ramparts, candlelit walkways and festive scenes created inside the castle rooms, including a decorated Christmas tree, a stained-glass style installation and a traditional medieval feast display.

Glow runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4:30pm to 7:30pm until 14 December, offering families the chance to explore the castle after dark in a way that is rarely possible. The illuminated trail has become one of the county’s most popular seasonal attractions, drawing visitors from across West Wales.

A major highlight for younger visitors arrives this weekend, as Santa sets up his magical grotto inside the castle walls. Children can meet Father Christmas every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm until 14 December, with each child receiving a gift. Organisers say booking is essential, with limited spaces available.

Carew Castle’s team said they have worked for weeks to prepare the site for the festive season, aiming to create a magical experience for families and returning visitors. Early reactions from guests at the launch night suggest the event could be one of the strongest yet.

Tickets for both Glow and Santa’s Grotto can be booked via events.pembrokeshirecoast.wales.