Glowing Ravers Review by Freya

I think this was one of, if not my favourite theatre performance at the Torch and I fully want to see this crew perform more like this in future” – this was the opinion of Riley, one of Torch Theatre’s junior reviewers after he recently came to see Ravers.  Presented as part of the National Theatre Connections programme, the three performances by the young people of Pembrokeshire were a roaring, standing ovation success!

This light-hearted brand-new play written by Rikki Beadle-Blair, part of the spring production by Torch Youth members, invited its audience to consider the world through the eyes of awkward teenagers. The Nerds and Geeks (Neeks) were organising a rave at the Torch Theatre and following months of rehearsals and a lot of fun along the way, the near sell-out shows were very well supported by parents and the community alike.

“We are incredibly proud of our young people,” said Tim Howe, director of the production and Senior Manager for Youth and Community at the Torch. “The performances were very well supported, and the young people were just brilliant, totally brilliant. It was all about team-work, wellbeing and making friends and we can’t wait to show off just how incredible our young people are in Aberystwyth when we tour the show.”

When discussing Ravers, one young actor described it as “loud but good, enjoyable and expressive.” Another added “the Torch is always introducing us to new skills to help us in the performing arts industry whilst being a comfort place for us to laugh and get to know each other.”

Members have been working hard on Ravers since September and will head to the Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Saturday 12 April.

The Torch Theatre is now preparing for its Summer Youth Theatre term for young people between seven and 18, which will conclude with the spectacular full youth theatre production The Bangers and Chips Explosion.

The Torch Youth Programme helps young people to understand what it is to be a theatre maker. Each week they are encouraged to build their confidence through creative and engaging skill-building sessions, led by the Torch Theatre’s dedicated team. 

Tim added: “During our summer term every child is able to take part in our flagship main house production, this year we are incredibly pleased to be presenting a rip-roaring comedy about school pupils who go on strike because the dinner lady won’t cook them chips… with explosive results! Our weekly sessions are not just about acting and theatre; we ensure that our young people learn about social skills, problem-solving, and teamwork. Most importantly our young people have fun and make new friends.”

If you would like to sponsor the Torch Theatre’s work with young people then get in touch with the Theatre. 

“We’d love to hear from you and see how your support can help develop the next generation,” concluded Tim. 

The Summer term starts on Tuesday 29 April, and if you’d like exclusive news on when booking opens, or would like to talk to the Torch about supporting the Youth Theatre then contact tim@torchtheatre.co.uk.