Samuel Freeman in A Stomp and Holler not to be Missed!

On Friday 9 May, award-winning live theatre and events company, The Production Garden, brings you The Mumford & Sons Story – Awake My Soul only at the Torch Theatre. The show recreates the incredible tale of the floor-stomping folk-rock band that in 2009, took the world by storm. 

Anwen caught up with Milford Haven actor, Samuel Freeman, to see what it’s all about …

Say a little a bit about the evening - what can people expect? 

People can expect live authentic performances of the hits of the 2010's, being transported back to the folk-rock-festival-vibes that were loved across the UK and the world. These foot-stomping anthems are accompanied by the story of the band's rise to fame, with a chance to learn the untold tale of how an entire new genre was created, all the way from London dive bars to sell out stadium tours. But most certainly of all, people can expect a great night out!

Tell us a bit about your role in the show.

As well as being the double bassist of the band, I am also co-creator of The Mumford & Sons Story, leading on the research of the group's history, embedding myself well and truly in 'facts corner' in between the music that has everyone on their feet, having the time of their lives. 

What's it like being back at the Torch again?

As always, an absolute honour. I am brimming with excitement to take this show that is near and dear to my heart, back to my hometown, where I know Milford is looking to raise the roof off the Torch!

So, Samuel, why Mumford & Sons?

I was such a massive fan growing up. Their first two albums were the soundtrack of my sixth form. But they were also a huge influence for me as a musician and composer in theatre. Mumford & Sons taught me the power of fantastic storytelling. The sheer ability they had to make an acoustic guitar and double bass sound like the world's biggest and loudest rock band gave me the confidence to write like that myself.

Tell us a bit about the band.

Our group started as a little dream whilst touring around the UK with our summer theatre shows. Matthew Emeny (Guitar) and I were lucky enough to recruit the exceptionally talented Josh Wells (Keyboard) and Stan Elliot (Banjo) to join us, and we locked ourselves away in a rehearsal room to capture the sound and essence of the ultimate Mumford & Sons tribute.

We still have to pinch ourselves really. Last year we put this show together almost as a laugh, got 14 gigs, jumped in a van and hit the road...a year on, the response has just been phenomenal. We are so grateful for everyone who has come along and had a blast with us every single night, and because of that, 2025 is looking so much bigger and better with incredible things to come! 

And which musician are you?

I have the honour of performing in the shoes of bassist Ted Dwane. I was lucky enough to see him along with the rest of the band this year at Camden Assembly as they warmed up for the Rushmere tour later this year. Utter talent, and it just made me even more excited to get back on stage.

What is your favourite song to perform and why?

This changes all the time. But right now, it would be Whispers In The Dark. A song that really captures the American influence on the band. But most of all, I get to go nuts on the Electric Bass and just rock out!

Do you need to be fans of The Mumford & Sons to enjoy the show?

Absolutely not. So often we have heard from people who said they would never have considered themselves fans of Mumford & Sons. But after seeing our 2 hours folk-rock-festival celebration, they come away loving every single song.

The Torch Theatre keeps calling you back, what’s the plan after this show?

I'm excited to continue assisting with the Torch Youth Theatre, which started me on my career as an actor, and hopefully return for another amazing Torch production soon, created and produced right here in Milford Haven.

Tickets for The Mumford & Sons on Friday 9 May at 7.30pm are £23. Visit the website for further details www.torchtheatre.co.uk / phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267 or click here.