The latest Torch Theatre production 'The Wood', written by Owen Thomas and directed by Peter Doran, is based on an idea by Ifan Huw Dafydd and opened this week.

The play is set in Mametz Wood and revisits July 1916 as the Battle of the Somme takes place and the wood echoes to the sounds of war.

The play was written to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War One and was inspired by a true story featuring the 38th Welsh Division.

With only two actors taking to the stage, I wondered how compelling the story would be.

My reservations proved unfounded.

What unfolded was breath-taking performances by Dan (played by Ifan Huw Daffyd) - who was returning 50 years later for one last visit to 'The Wood' to lay a ghost to rest - and Billy (Gwydion Rhys), who is that ghost and appears amongst the trees in a clearing in the wood.

The set is cleverly constructed to give the feel of being in the wood with bird song and trees, and with the play being staged in the Studio Theatre you quickly become immersed in the story.

The acting was exceptional and appeared as exhausting for the actors as it was for the watching audience.

Ultimately this is a story about an unbreakable friendship that does not end with death; love conquering all; and the stupid sacrifice of war.

I loved all aspects of the play, with its ability to make you laugh and cry within minutes.

My only criticism of the piece would be when both actors spoke at the same time - although powerful and moving, I felt some of what was being said was lost.

The Wood runs until March 1 (February 28 has a matinee performance) at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

Contact the box office on 01646 695367 or see the website torchtheatre.co.uk for tickets.