Entertainment
A night to remember: Symphonica Tywi’s ‘Film Fantastics’ was a triumph
ON SATURDAY (Mar 23), Haverfordwest High School was ablaze with the soaring melodies and dramatic scores of some of cinema’s most treasured soundtracks, courtesy of Symphonica Tywi’s “Film Fantastics” tour. In an evening event that promised to be an enchanting evening, it exceeded expectations, becoming a heart-stirring journey through the annals of film history.
As the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Gone with the Wind” filled the transformed concert hall, it was clear that attendees were in for a treat. The Wales’ premier symphony orchestra, under the starlit sky of the auditorium, delivered an impeccable performance that spanned the emotional spectrum of film music, from the adventurous spirit of “Jurassic Park” to the comedic stealth of “Pink Panther.”
The audience was visibly moved by the evocative power of live music, especially during the performance of “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” where the thrill of adventure was palpable in the air. The stealthy beats of “Mission Impossible” had everyone on the edge of their seats, a testament to the orchestra’s ability to translate cinematic excitement into musical form.
“Film Fantastics” did not just offer a musical journey; it was a sensory voyage that reminded many of the timeless connection between film and music. The diverse program ensured that every attendee found a piece of their own cinematic nostalgia to cling to, whether they were swaying to the melodies of “Pirates of the Caribbean” or holding their breath during the tense moments of “Where Eagles Dare.”
The event, sponsored by The Pembrokeshire Herald, not only celebrated film music but also underscored the importance of supporting the arts within our community. The affordable ticket pricing and the warm welcome to children under 14 emphasized the inclusivity and family-friendly nature of the evening, making it a cultural highlight in Haverfordwest’s calendar.
As the final notes of “The Magnificent Seven” echoed through the hall, there was a sense of collective awe at the talent and passion of Symphonica Tywi. This year’s “Film Fantastics” was more than just a concert; it was a tribute to the enduring magic of film music and its power to bring people together.
For those who missed the event, the trailer alone, which teased the sonic journey of the evening, hinted at the magnificence of the live performance. However, nothing could truly capture the experience of being there, amidst the swell of music that has defined generations of cinema-goers.
Symphonica Tywi’s annual musical extravaganza not only lived up to its promise but also reminded us of the vibrant cultural life that thrives in Pembrokeshire. It was an unforgettable night that celebrated the beauty of film music, the talent of our local symphony orchestra, and the communal spirit of Haverfordwest. Here’s to many more years of “Film Fantastics” and the continued success of Symphonica Tywi in bringing classical music to a wider audience.
Entertainment
British South Seas adventure comedy romance hits the Torch stage
STUDENTS from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Carmarthen will be performing The Admirable Crichton by J.M.Barrie at two venues across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire this week. On Wednesday 15 May, you can see the play, written in 1902, on the Torch Theatre stage, directed by William Kingshott and Torch Theatre’s very own award-winning Artistic Director, Chelsey Gillard.
This joyful comedy is presented by third year students from the Acting and Design and Production courses at the University. The classic satire, pokes fun at British manners and asks what will happen if the “natural” order is upended. Members of an aristocratic family find themselves shipwrecked on a desert island with just one pair of shoes between them and someone must take the lead – will it be the blustering Lord Loam or their loyal butler Crichton?
Torch Theatre’s Artistic Director Chesley Gillard said: “I love the work of J.M. Barrie and it’s a real joy to be rehearsing this play with the third year acting and production students at UWTSD. The show is wonderfully witty and fun. It really pokes fun at the ideas of British manner and I’m sure you’ll all be laughing along with these fantastically talented students.”
Taylor Dyderski and Alyanna Arzente, both students at UWTSD, say that the experiences that they are gaining on this production will help them prepare for their future careers in the industry.
“As set design and production students, we learn a lot about how to adapt sets, lighting, and costumes so that we can tour them around different venues. Working within different environments and making sure that we are working sustainably. We are working alongside Chelsey and William, to achieve their creative visions and from this opportunity we are learning to a high standard how to be practitioners in the industry.”
Playing the role of Crichton, Celeste Turnbull has enjoyed diving into the role.
“As it is a period piece, us acting students have had to learn the specific rules of etiquette that were expected at the time. Wearing the amazing period-accurate costumes has allowed us to develop the physicalisation of our characters and delve into their mindsets. It’s nice to look back at period plays and learn a different form of our language that we wouldn’t necessarily consider including in our repertoire,” explained Celeste.
The Admirable Crichton will be performed on the Torch Theatre stage on Wednesday 15 May at 7pm. Ticket prices: £8 / £5 concessions. For tickets phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk. You can also see the production at y Stiwdio Fach, Yr Egin, Carmarthen on Thursday 17 May at 7pm and Friday 18 May at 2pm and 7pm. To book tickets for the Carmarthen shows, please contact ([email protected])
Entertainment
Saundersfoot Footlights presents: ‘The Addams Family, the Musical’
- Normal? Define “normal”
EMBRACE the bizarre and celebrate the unconventional as Saundersfoot Footlights proudly presents “The Addams Family, the Musical”! In a world where “normal” is a relative term, the iconic Addams clan invites you to delve into their delightfully macabre universe. As we plunge headfirst into rehearsals, it’s abundantly clear: we’re having a monstrous amount of fun!
Their dedicated cast is pulling out all the stops, honing every song and dance number to perfection. Get ready for a spine-tingling spectacle that will leave you spellbound! With its unforgettable characters and jaw-dropping costumes, “The Addams Family” promises an evening of eerie entertainment like no other.
What sets this production apart is the attention to detail given to every ensemble member. Even without uttering a word, each performer breathes life into their character, weaving a silent yet captivating narrative. The Ancestors, in particular, add a hauntingly beautiful dimension to the show, their graceful movements choreographing the chaos that ensues whenever the Addams are involved.
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of crazy antics, eccentric personalities, and a whole lot of love, especially when Morticia and Gomez take the stage for the mesmerizing “Tango De Amor”. And fear not! Our Musical Director is dedicated to ensuring that every note sung resonates with perfection, prioritizing the health and wellbeing of our cast throughout.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, their set and props team are working tirelessly to transport audiences into the eerie elegance of the Addams Mansion. From crafting their own slice of Central Park to meticulously designing a haunting graveyard, every detail is meticulously crafted to immerse you in the Addams experience.
Of course, no Addams production would be complete without its iconic costumes. Each outfit is a work of art, breathing life into the characters and adding an extra layer of magic to the performance.
And let’s not forget our versatile tech crew, masters of light, sound, smoke, and pyrotechnics. With their expertise, they bring a touch of theatrical wizardry to every scene, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience for all.
Tickets are available NOW! Don’t miss your chance to join the madness from Monday, May 27th to Saturday, June 1st at The Regency Hall in Saundersfoot. Book online at www.Saundersfootamdram.co.uk or grab yours directly from The Regency Hall box office.
Prepare to be enchanted, amused, and thoroughly spooked as the Addams Family descends upon Saundersfoot. See you there… if you dare!
Entertainment
Community event to mark end of popular exhibition
AN exhibition at Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre will conclude with an exciting farewell event, featuring renowned illustrator Jackie Morris and award-winning poet Mererid Hopwood.
The Geiriau Diflanedig – The Lost Words exhibition has been on display since June 2023, captivating visitors of all ages and backgrounds with its vibrant illustrations and thought-provoking poems that explore the relationship between language and the living world.
Based on the award-winning book by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris, the touring exhibition, organised by Compton Verney, with Hamish Hamilton and Penguin Books, brought together, for the first time ever, the original artwork by Jackie Morris alongside the English language poems by Robert Macfarlane and Welsh language poems written by Mererid Hopwood.
With the exhibition now approaching its final weeks, the farewell event offers a unique opportunity to engage with two of the creators behind its magic, gaining insight into the creative processes that brought it to life.
There will also be a chance to hear about Jackie’s latest project, with a preview of her work in progress for The Lost Birds.
Manager of Oriel y Parc, Rachel Perkins, said: “The success of the Geiriau Diflanedig – The Lost Words exhibition has been truly remarkable, captivating audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
“It’s been wonderful to be a part of this experience, which seeks to reintroduce the fading faces of nature to our vocabularies. We hope that many have been inspired to join the fight to reverse their plight and look forward to welcoming them as we bid farewell to this memorable exhibition.”
The farewell to The Lost Words – Geiriau Diflanedig exhibition will take place at Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre on Saturday 25 May, between 2pm-3.30pm. Although the event is free, booking in advance at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events is essential due to limited capacity at the venue.
Further information about exhibitions and events at Oriel y Parc can be found at www.orielyparc.co.uk.
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