Small theatre makes a big impression (From Western Telegraph)

Small theatre makes a big impression

The Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, - one of the UK's smallest repertory theatres - celebrates its Silver Jubilee this month.

The 297-seater venue is one of only four producing theatres in Wales, the other three being Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Sherman Theatre, Cardiff and Theatr Gwynedd, Bangor.

Under Peter Doran's artistic leadership, the Torch has produced some critical and commercial successes, including 'Neville's Island', 'The Woman in Black', Mike Leigh's 'Abigail's Party', Alan Ayckbourn's 'Taking Steps', and Dennis Potter's 'Blue Remembered Hills'.

There have also been sell-out Christmas musical shows written by Peter and featuring orginal musical scores by composer James Williams, including 'Aladdin', 'Pinocchio' and 'Jack and the Beanstalk'.

As well as producing its own shows, Pembrokeshire's premier arts and entertainment venue also presents productions from touring companies including Snap, Volcano, Mid-Wales Opera and Diversions Dance. Some famous names who have appeared at the Torch include Graham Norton, Brian Blessed, Victor Spinetti; Wendy Craig, Honor Blackman, Jenny Seagrove, Pam Ayres and Tony Benn.

The theatre shows films ranging from latest releases, blockbusters, and children's favourites to art-house and classics, showing as part of the Torch's Film Club on Sunday nights.

The Joanna Field Gallery shows exhibitions on a monthly basis by local, national and amateur and professional artists.

To help the Torch celebrate, there is a fantastic selection of shows lined up including Max Boyce and Mike Doyle ... not to mention a 60s night, a 70s night plus the best of the West End musicals and a tribute to the music of the legendary Buddy Holly.

The Torch Theatre Company will produce the classic 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' by Dale Wasserman, based on the 1960s novel by Ken Kesey, plus a brand new magical musical for Christmas - 'Danny and the Donkey Man and the Search for the Magic Crystal'.

The spring production will be Willy Russell's comedy 'One For The Road'. To find out more about the theatre, call 01646 695267 or visit our website at www.torchtheatre. org.uk