Entertainment

A night to remember: Symphonica Tywi’s ‘Film Fantastics’ was a triumph

Published

2 years ago

March 24, 2024

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

Tenby steams up in spectacular style as crowds flock to festival

Published

2 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Colourful parade, towering creations and Victorian flair bring town centre to life

TENBY was transformed into a vibrant Victorian fantasy on Saturday (Mar 21) as hundreds of visitors descended on the town for the annual Steampunk Festival.

The highlight of the day came with the much-anticipated Peacock Parade, which saw elaborately dressed participants wind their way through Tenby’s narrow streets, drawing large crowds of spectators.

Residents and visitors lined the route, many stopping to take photos as performers in eye-catching costumes passed by. From brass goggles and top hats to military-inspired uniforms and elegant gowns, the outfits on display reflected the creativity and theatrical spirit of the steampunk scene.

Among the most striking sights were the towering pink flamingo creations, which rose high above the crowds and became an instant talking point. Musicians in period costume added to the atmosphere, playing lively tunes as they marched through the town.

Families were out in force, with children and adults alike enjoying the spectacle. Many visitors had travelled from across Wales and beyond to attend the event, which has grown in popularity in recent years and is now firmly established as a key date in Tenby’s events calendar.

The Herald understands that local businesses also benefited from the influx of visitors, with cafés, pubs and shops seeing a steady flow of customers throughout the day.

In addition to the parade, a range of activities were taking place across the town, including markets, performances and themed entertainment centred around the De Valence Pavilion.

Organisers have worked to create an inclusive and welcoming event, with many people choosing to dress up while others simply come along to enjoy the unique atmosphere.

The festival continues on Sunday, with further events planned as Tenby remains firmly in the grip of steampunk fever for the weekend.

Photos: Colourful characters take part in the Peacock Parade through Tenby on Saturday (Pic: Gareth Davies).

Entertainment

St Patrick’s night celebration at Giraldus Centre

Published

3 days ago

March 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

GET ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style this Friday at the Giraldus Centre in Manorbier.

The community venue is hosting a lively evening of music, dancing and Irish-themed fun, with entertainment from popular local group The Slipway Ukes.

Doors open at 7:00pm on Friday (Mar 20), with free entry for all. A fully licensed bar will be open throughout the evening, serving drinks and snacks with an Irish twist.

Organisers are encouraging everyone to “unleash their inner leprechaun” and enjoy a night on the dance floor.

There is no need to book—just turn up and join in.

Donations on the night will be gratefully received in support of the Paul Sartori Foundation.

The event takes place at the Giraldus Centre, Manorbier, SA70 7TN.

Entertainment

Met Opera’s Tristan und Isolde comes to the Torch Theatre

Published

6 days ago

March 15, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Lise Davidsen leads star cast in Wagner’s epic tale of love and death in special cinema broadcast on Sunday (Mar 22)

AFTER years of anticipation, a truly unmissable event arrives in cinemas worldwide as the electrifying Lise Davidsen takes on one of the ultimate roles for dramatic soprano – the Irish princess Isolde – in Wagner’s transcendent meditation on love and death, Tristan und Isolde.

Heroic tenor Michael Spyres stars opposite Davidsen as the love-struck Tristan in what promises to be a powerful and emotionally charged performance.

The production also marks the arrival of a new staging at the Metropolitan Opera by Yuval Sharon, making his Met debut. Sharon has been hailed by The New York Times as “the most visionary opera director of his generation” and was the first American to direct an opera at the famous Wagner festival in Bayreuth.

Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin also leads Tristan und Isolde at the Met for the first time in this landmark production.

The cast includes mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Gubanova reprising her acclaimed portrayal of Brangäne, alongside bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny as Kurwenal following his celebrated Met appearances in Wagner’s Der Fliegende Holländerand the Ring cycle. Bass-baritone Ryan Speedo Green makes an important role debut as King Marke.

Reviewing the production for The Observer, Fiona Maddocks described it as a “glorious production” and “well worth catching”, adding: “This was one of those rare and blissful nights when dropped jaws silenced noisy opinion in the queue for coats afterwards.”

The recorded broadcast of Tristan und Isolde will be screened at the Torch Theatre on Sunday (Mar 22) at 4:00pm.

For further information visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

ENDS