Community

The Torch Theatre is calling on all creative adults

Published

5 months ago

July 19, 2024

IT’S never too late to get writing, appear on stage or learn all about directing. This summer, the Torch Theatre welcomes people 18 and over to come along and take part in Show Off! – an adult only series of creative sessions as part of its Summer School offer.

No previous experience is necessary to join these relaxed and accessible weekly evening sessions across the month of August, which aim to build on your creative skills. Led by Torch Artistic Director Chelsey Gillard and Youth and Community Senior Manager Tim Howe, the course concludes with a showcase performance in the Torch Studio.

This year the Torch is excited to able to offer two places completely free of charge on a first come, first served basis. These have been supported by a generous donation from one of last year’s participants. The donor was keen to help others access this valuable provision and said:

“I loved that there was an acting class for adults and was so grateful for that. It was really fun, I particularly enjoyed the theatre games and the final performance, despite the nerves! I went into it not really knowing what to expect but told myself that being “good” at acting was irrelevant. And it reminded me that the joy is in the playing, the creating, the trying of new things.”

Tim added: “We’re so excited to be running our friendly and welcoming adult summer school again this year and cannot wait to meet another group of fantastic participants! Chelsey and I are particularly pleased that we are able to offer two places completely free thanks to the support of one of last year’s participants. All of us at the Torch know the value to health and wellbeing that regular creative moments provide, and to have two spaces funded by someone who knows about that benefit first hand is such a brilliant endorsement of what we do. It’s a fantastic opportunity for two lucky people!”
Sessions will be held during the evening on Thursday 8, 15, 22 and 29 August 6.30pm – 9pm and Saturday 31 August from 10am to 9pm (including a showcase performance in the Torch Theatre Studio space).

Last year Marcela Ayala took part in the Adult Creative Sessions and she hasn’t looked back having taken part in the Torch Theatre’s productions of Private Lives as well as taking on a role supporting the delivery of the Torch Youth Theatre.

“The summer school meant I could re-connect with my inner child through games in a safe place. I had so much fun by interacting and creating characters with my peers. I never felt judged by the drama leader, on the contrary, he gave me the confidence to carry on to free myself from my own judgement,” said Marcela.

“This kind of safe place is so important to grow confidence. Sometimes we think we are not good enough or do not have many strong points to stand out among the crowd, but it might be that here at the Summer School you find your “weak” points are the ones, that audience members love and feel connected with, and that is amazing. I would love others to be part of the same experience, giving yourself a chance to have fun,” concluded Marcela.

To book your place in Show Off or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

1 hour ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.

Community

Milford Haven’s heartwarming ‘Christmas Together’ event another success

Published

2 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN came together once again on Christmas Day for the annual ‘Christmas Together’ event, a cherished tradition that has been running since December 2012.

Organised by Mayor Cllr William Elliott and his consort Lloyd Jones, alongside Cllr Colin Sharp and the dedicated Christmas Together Committee, the event provided warmth, community spirit, and festive cheer to those who might otherwise spend the day alone.

Volunteers played an essential role, with special thanks extended to Claire and her kitchen team, who prepared and served a delicious Christmas meal for all attendees. Milford Haven Town Band added a festive soundtrack to the day, while support from Milford Haven Fire Station and numerous volunteers ensured everything ran smoothly.

The event, which aims to combat loneliness during what can be a difficult time of year for many, was described as a resounding success. The organisers expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who donated money, items, and their time to make the day special.

A spokesperson for the event said: “As another year closes, we would like to thank all those that made Christmas Together 2024 so amazing. Great day, great company, and so good to see the community working together.”

Special recognition was also given to Marble Hall Mini Market for their kind donation of a festive hamper.

The Christmas Together raffle added an extra layer of excitement to the day, with generous donations from supporters.

A special thank you was extended to Mariam Dalziel and the team from South Hook for kindly donating an Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet as one of the raffle prizes. Other prizes included a hamper of wine, a tower of temptation (chocolates and Prosecco), chocolate tub hampers, and many more.

Preparations for the event began well in advance, with invitations being posted on Saturday, 26th October 2024. The dedicated team behind this effort included Leanne from Milford Haven Post Office, Mayor Cllr William Elliott, Cllr Guy Woodham (Founder and Chair of Christmas Together), and Cllr Colin Sharp (Committee Member and Chair of the Pill Social Centre).

The event once again highlighted the strong sense of community spirit in Milford Haven, with attendees leaving with full hearts and warm smiles.

Merry Christmas to all from the Christmas Together team!

Community

Heartfelt Christmas message from Tenby’s Mayor

Published

2 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Tenby, Councillor Dai Morgan, has delivered a warm and heartfelt Christmas message to the community.

Cllr Morgan praised the town’s ‘resilient and united’ spirit, reflecting on the ‘kindness and generosity’ that have defined Tenby throughout the year. He expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering community support that continues to make the town ‘a truly special place to call home.’

Acknowledging the challenges many families face this year, including the ongoing cost-of-living pressures and rising energy costs, Cllr Morgan encouraged residents to embrace the core values of the festive season: peace, compassion, and hope.

“Christmas is a time to come together, to reflect on what truly matters, and to share moments of joy and hope for a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

The mayor extended his heartfelt thanks to those who work tirelessly to keep the community safe and supported over the festive season. This included the police, RNLI, health services, fire crews, HM Coastguard, carers, and all frontline workers.

He also highlighted the vital contributions of Tenby’s voluntary organisations, who continue to bring comfort and joy to those who may feel isolated or face hardship during the holidays.

“Without the dedication and compassion of our voluntary groups, our town would lose so much of its heart. Their efforts make a real difference, and they deserve our gratitude and support every single day,” Cllr Morgan added.

Reflecting on the year gone by, he shared how humbled he felt meeting so many inspiring individuals who contribute to the town’s rich tapestry of community life. Looking ahead to 2025, he expressed optimism and a renewed sense of gratitude for his family, friends, and colleagues.

Cllr Morgan concluded his message with warm wishes for the season:

“May this Christmas bring you moments of happiness, peace, and togetherness. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a hopeful New Year.”