Entertainment
Dolly Parton ‘tickled pink’ by curiosity about her Welsh roots
DOLLY Parton has expressed her delight over the interest in her Welsh heritage, saying she is “tickled pink” about the curiosity. The country music star traced her ancestry to South Wales for a TV programme.
In a brief clip played on Radio 4’s Today Programme, Parton mentioned she couldn’t “give away all the secrets yet”. She added that “all the juicy details” will be revealed when her documentaries air later this year.
Parton, born in Tennessee, has sold over 100 million records worldwide. Her niece, singer Jada Star, found it “a lot of fun” to discover their Welsh roots.
“Finding out about that side of our family is really extraordinary,” Jada said. “Especially with everything we’re uncovering about our musical connections—how it’s always been with us—is wonderful.”
Jada suggested that some of Parton’s music, and her own, may have been inspired by their Welsh heritage. “A lot of music, especially from the Appalachians and east Tennessee where we come from, reflects where those people settled. The skill of hearing a story and then relaying it memorably, so it lives on forever, is a big part of Welsh music. These are stories passed down for centuries.”
Jada also mentioned she is currently learning Welsh and hopes to use it when she visits the country. “I’m trying my best. I’ve got that little owl on Duolingo working double time for me. I can do some morning and afternoon greetings. I’m trying not to butcher it, and I hope everyone can help me when I get there.”
This isn’t the first time the “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” singer has been linked to Wales. During a 2008 concert at the Cardiff International Arena, Parton reportedly told fans she had Welsh ancestry.
Entertainment
Three timeless monologues to raise money for the Torch Theatre
AS part of the Torch Theatre’s ‘One More Time’ campaign, where audience members are encouraged to visit the Theatre’s productions just one more time this year, local amateur actors from Artistic Licence will present Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads this October. For two nights this month, three local ladies will take to the stage performing a classic monologue each.
The timeless monologues, first shown on television in the 1980’s will be brought to life on the Torch Theatre stage on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October. Her Big Chance will be performed by Janine Lewis, Margaret Slater Harries will perform A Lady of Letters with Carol Mackintosh bringing you A Cream Cracker Under the Settee.
These monologues are portraits of three very different women – their folly, boredom, pain and joy – but all sharing Alan Bennett’s masterly observation of the human condition.
All proceeds from these performances will be given to the Torch Theatre and presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd.
Artistic Licence: Talking Heads will feature on the Torch Theatre stage on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October both at 7.30pm. Ticket price: £12. To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.
Entertainment
New drama series ‘Cleddau’ premieres tonight on S4C
A NEW Welsh drama series, Cleddau, is set to captivate audiences with its thrilling combination of a murder mystery and an intense love story. The six-part series, with each episode running for 60 minutes, will premiere tonight, Sunday 13th October, at 9pm on S4C.
Set in Pembroke Dock, Cleddau brings together some of the finest talent in Welsh crime drama. The series is penned by renowned writer Catherine Tregenna, known for her work on The Bench, Law & Order UK, Lewis, and DCI Banks. The cast includes Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden), Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland), and Rhian Blythe (Y Golau/The Light in the Hall, Craith/Hidden).
The gripping storyline begins with the shocking murder of a nurse, which reopens old wounds in the tight-knit community of Pembroke Dock. As the investigation unfolds, it throws a historic conviction into doubt, raising the disturbing possibility of a copycat killer. At the heart of the drama is the reunion of two former lovers, now tasked with solving the case, as they navigate both the complexities of the crime and their shared past.
With twists and turns throughout, Cleddau promises viewers a heart-stopping finale, offering a forensic examination of a town, a killer, and the turbulent relationship of the central characters.
All episodes will be broadcast in Welsh with English subtitles available across all platforms. The first episode airs tonight on S4C, and will also be available on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer. Don’t miss the premiere at 9pm!
Entertainment
Russell Grant to (virtually) join Snow White cast as Magic Mirror at Boulevard Theatre, Milford Haven.
The Big Pembs Pantomime is thrilled to announce that beloved astrologer and television personality Russell Grant will be joining the cast of this year’s Christmas pantomime, Snow White, in a mesmerising virtual role.
Grant, known for his charismatic presence and astrological expertise, will take on the role of the Magic Mirror in this innovative production. Grant will appear virtually on stage, bringing a unique and magical element to the classic fairy tale.
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Russell Grant to our Snow-White family,” said Drew Baker, Creative Director at the Boulevard Theatre. “His virtual presence as the Magic Mirror will add an exciting dimension to our show, blending tradition with technology in a way that’s sure to captivate audiences of all ages.”
The production of Snow White, featuring Russell Grant as the virtual Magic Mirror, will run from 11th – 31st December at the Boulevard Theatre. Tickets are on sale now by visiting www.bigpembspanto.com
For more information or to talk about a booking please call 01437 723493
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