Entertainment

From Saundersfoot to the spotlight: Local star makes West End debut

Published

2 years ago

March 30, 2024

IN a tale of a local talent making it big, Tom Griffiths, a 29-year-old from Tenby, has become the talk of Pembrokeshire after securing a coveted position in the bustling heart of London’s Theatre Land. Griffiths, a devoted member of the Saundersfoot Footlights, an amateur dramatic society revered for its vibrant contributions to local culture, has taken a giant leap into professional theatre.

Starting at the tender age of 11, Griffiths first made his mark in the world of theatre as part of the Lollipop Guild in the beloved production of “Wizard of Oz.” This marked the beginning of an illustrious journey with the Saundersfoot Footlights, where he has featured in almost every Christmas pantomime and summer musical since. His dedication remained unwavering through his university years, often jumping into roles at the last minute to ensure the show went on.

This steadfast commitment and passion for the stage recently led him to a dream opportunity – working backstage for the electrifying “Back to the Future, the Musical” at The Adelphi Theatre in London’s iconic West End. The show, celebrated for its spectacular, high-voltage performances, achieved its 1000th show in January and has been extended due to popular demand.

The community and Griffiths’ mentors at Saundersfoot Footlights, including the late Ceri Morris and Keith Williams, as well as his father, Andrew Griffiths, who recently became Head of Set, have expressed immense pride in his achievements. Griffiths’ story is a testament to the society’s nurturing environment and its pivotal role in shaping future talents for the broader stages.

Griffiths is set to return to his roots soon, visiting the Saundersfoot Footlights during their upcoming production of “Addams Family, the Musical” at the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, running from May 27th to June 1st. His journey from Saundersfoot to the West End is an inspiring reminder of the impact of local theatre communities in fostering talent that can shine on the world’s biggest stages.

For those interested in supporting local theatre and possibly catching a glimpse of Griffiths during his visit, tickets for “Addams Family, the Musical” can be booked through the society’s website or its Facebook page, where updates on the production are regularly posted.

This story not only highlights Griffiths’ remarkable journey but also serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring actors within and beyond Pembrokeshire, proving that with dedication, even the loftiest dreams can be within reach.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

3 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Entertainment

Dinosaurs set to take over Milford Waterfront

Published

1 day ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PREHISTORIC FUN COMES TO MILFORD HAVEN

DINOSAURS will be roaming Milford Waterfront later this month as Dinomania brings a day of prehistoric entertainment to the town.

The popular dinosaur attraction will take over the waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three interactive shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

Each show will last around 50 minutes and promises plenty of audience participation, prehistoric facts, and family-friendly fun.

Before the ticketed shows begin, visitors are being encouraged to keep an eye out around Milford Waterfront, where Dinomania’s dinosaurs will be out and about during a free walkabout performance between 10:30am and 11:30am.

The walkabout will give families the chance to see the dinosaurs up close and enjoy some entertainment around the waterfront before the main shows get underway.

Milford Waterfront said: “Dinomania will be taking over Milford Waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three exciting shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

“Each show lasts approximately 50 minutes and is packed with interactive moments and prehistoric fun.”

Tickets can be booked through the Milford Waterfront website.

Entertainment

Hubberston Girls exhibition launches new space at Waterfront Gallery

Published

1 day ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A NEW exhibition exploring memories of growing up on a council estate has opened at the Waterfront Gallery in Milford Haven.

Artist Lynn Stuart is launching the gallery’s new exhibition space with her solo show, Hubberston Girls, which runs until Saturday, May 30.

The exhibition features a deeply personal series of works drawn and painted on brown paper. The material was chosen for its connection to everyday memories, including lunch bags and magazines wrapped in paper.

Once oiled, the paper becomes semi-transparent, allowing paint to be applied to the reverse and creating layered, intimate images.

The Waterfront Gallery is extending its opening hours for the exhibition and will be open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

A private view will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, and all are welcome.

The gallery is based in the Old Sail Loft on Discovery Quay, Milford Waterfront, Milford Haven. It is one of south west Wales’s leading art galleries, a registered charity, and home to the Wales Contemporary annual competition.

The gallery is run by artist volunteers who exhibit there regularly.