Author name: Samara Van Rijswijk

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Creative Connections

Creative Connections:A Creative Respite for Unpaid Carers Creative Connections is a monthly workshop tailored specifically for unpaid carers. It provides a safe and welcoming space where participants can step away from their daily responsibilities and immerse themselves in creative activities led by talented, hand-picked facilitators. These workshops are an opportunity to explore expression in a variety of forms, including: Music: Unleashing the rhythm within through instruments, singing, or collaborative soundscapes. Poetry and Storytelling: Finding your voice through words, whether it’s creating new stories or sharing personal experiences. Mosaic and Art: Channeling creativity into vibrant, hands-on projects that bring beauty and satisfaction. These sessions are not just about learning new skills but also about building a community, connecting with others who understand the unique challenges and joys of being a carer. Welcome Wednesdays: A Warm Space Every Two Weeks In addition to Creative Connections, SPAN Arts also hosts Welcome Wednesdays every two weeks. These informal gatherings offer a warm, relaxed space where anyone can drop in, have a chat, enjoy a cup of tea, and take part in creative activities in the gallery. Whether you feel like creating something or simply sitting back and soaking in the friendly atmosphere, Welcome Wednesdays […]

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Robin Ince: The Universe and The Neurodiverse – An Evening of Stories, Poetry & Music

Robin Ince: The Universe and The Neurodiverse – An Evening of Stories, Poetry & Music  What if being “a bit weird” is actually completely normal? What if sharing our internal struggles is a sign of strength rather than weakness? Award-winning comedian, broadcaster, and author Robin Ince has spent over 30 years entertaining audiences on stage and radio, including the acclaimed The Infinite Monkey Cage on BBC Radio 4. But behind the laughter, Robin wrestled with self-doubt, anxiety, and the challenges of ADHD—challenges that he has transformed into creative fuel for his new show. Join us for The Universe and The Neurodiverse, an evening of heartfelt stories, poetry, and humor, where Robin explores mental health, creativity, and what it means to embrace our uniqueness. Adding to the magic is live music from singer-songwriter Rachel Taylor-Beales, whose soulful blend of Americana, alt-folk, blues, and jazz beautifully complements the evening’s themes. 📅 Date: Saturday 25th January 2025 ⏰ Time: 7:30 PM (Approx. 2 hours, including Q&A) 🎟 Tickets: £10 / £8.50 concessions Location: Scout Hut Narberth This is an event not to be missed—grab your tickets now and join us for a night that celebrates the beauty of being yourself.

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Theatr Soffa: Bringing Theatre to Your Sofa

Theatr Soffa is back! Immerse yourself in a new story from the comfort of your home!  Are you ready to connect, create, and perform—all from the comfort of your own home? Theatr Soffa, our online community theatre company, invites individuals from across Pembrokeshire to join us for an inspiring 12-week creative journey. Perfect for anyone who may feel isolated or simply wants to try something new, Theatr Soffa offers an opportunity to connect with others, develop new skills, and create something extraordinary together. Key Details 📅 Dates: Thursdays, 9th January – 27th March 2025 ⏰ Time: 7:00–9:00 PM (via Zoom) 📍 Where: Your Sofa! What’s Involved? Over 12 weeks, participants will work together to bring a play to life, learning acting and technical skills along the way. No experience? No problem! The project is open to everyone, and we’ll provide technical support if needed. Directed by Bethan Morgan and Mabel Mckeown, the journey will culminate in a recorded presentation of the play—a chance to showcase your hard work, creativity, and collaboration. Why Join? Be part of an exciting, supportive community. Explore your creativity and build confidence. Connect with like-minded people from the comfort of home. Sign Up Today! Don’t miss

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Call for Artists: Transform Shipping Containers with Prendergast Community School

Call for Artists: Transform Shipping Containers with Prendergast Community School SPAN Arts is seeking a talented artist with experience in large-scale painting projects to collaborate with pupils at Prendergast Community School, Haverfordwest. This exciting project will transform two shipping containers—used as a Bocs Bwyd and a Pre-loved Clothes Shop—into vibrant works of art, co-created with the pupils. Project Details Design Workshop: 1 day in January 2025 (in-school session) Outdoor Painting Days: 5 days in early March 2025 (with pupils) Planning & Preparation: 1 day Fee: £250/day (£1,750 total) plus travel expenses Materials: Separate budget provided What We’re Looking For An experienced artist who enjoys working collaboratively with young people, inspiring creativity, and bringing large-scale ideas to life. How to Apply Send the following to production@span-arts.org.uk by 5pm, Thursday 12th December: A cover letter (max 1 side of A4) outlining your relevant experience. Your CV. Images or links to examples of your work. Alternatively, you can submit a 5-minute audio or video recording with the same information. All applicants must have an up-to-date DBS check. We’ll acknowledge all applications, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us at the above email address or call 01834 869323. Join us

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We’re Looking for an Arts Facilitator for February Half Term 2025!

We’re Looking for an Arts Facilitator for February Half Term 2025!  Are you a passionate arts facilitator with experience working with young people? We’re seeking someone to lead inspiring, creative workshops for Young Carers during February Half Term 2025. About the Workshops The aim is to create a safe, supportive space where young people aged 11–17 can relax, connect with others, and explore their creativity. These hands-on workshops will help build confidence, encourage self-expression, and foster new friendships. We are open to any art form—from visual arts to performance, music, or crafts. SPAN Arts has a wide range of materials available for facilitators to use. Key Details Workshop Dates: 24th – 28th February 2025 Times: 11am – 4pm Location: SPAN Arts, Towns Moor Road, Narberth Participants: Young Carers, aged 11–17 Fees and Submission Details Fee: £250 per workshop day (inclusive of travel and expenses) Facilitators may lead one or more full-day workshops during the week. Submission Deadline: 12th January 2025 If you thrive on creating engaging, fun environments for young people and want to make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, please send your CV, a short cover letter detailing your experience, and examples of

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SPAN’s next Green Room Session, The Art of Marketing, is the latest in a series of free Artists professional development support sessions.

After the positive response to the SPAN’s Arty Party events for creative Freelancers, we were delighted to launch the Green Room Sessions, a new series of workshops offering West Wales based creative freelancers access to professional development sessions. Continuing on from the success of The Art of Fundraising, the next session will be The Art of Marketing. The Green Room sessions are a series of artist focussed workshops run by the SPAN team looking at a range of professional skills that offer insight into a variety of areas from fundraising to promotion. Join us for the second session in the series, The Art of Marketing, lead by Samara Van Rijswijk and Evangeline Morris. Both working on the Marketing team at SPAN as well as being practicing Artists, they have extensive knowledge of the tools and tricks you can use to develop a professional and practical marketing style as a freelance creative and boost your visibility. Join them for this session to learn about the key aspects of self-promotion including website development, mail outs and social media, as well as information on free tools to help you make your story memorable. Join us on Monday the 11th November from 6pm until 8pm at

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SPAN Arts Shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards 2024 – Use of the Welsh Language Category

We are thrilled to announce that SPAN Arts has been shortlisted for the prestigious Welsh Charity Awards 2024 in the Use of the Welsh Language category! These awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales, and we are honored to be recognized for our efforts in promoting and using the Welsh language in all aspects of our work.   The Welsh Charity Awards, organized by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), shine a spotlight on organizations that are making a positive difference in their communities. From grassroots initiatives to large-scale campaigns, the awards recognize the remarkable impact of those working to improve the lives of people in Wales. Being shortlisted for this award reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the Welsh language, and we are grateful to our team and community for helping keep it a central part of our events, outreach, and artistic efforts. The awards ceremony will take place on 25 November 2024, and we are looking forward to celebrating with our fellow finalists. To follow our journey and the excitement of the event, join us on social media using #WelshCharityAwards and #GwobrauElusennauCymru.

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Call out for performers!

Are you a theatre lover who would like to try your hand at performing? Or would you like to read through scripts and help us decide our next performance? Theatr Soffa will return in January 2024 and meet online on Thursday evenings. If you are interested in joining our community company please contact Bethan by emailing info@span-arts.org.uk
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Callout for script writers!

Theatre Sofa returns in 2024! Are you a script writer of a short play that has never been performed or needs to be developed? SPAN Arts is looking for a new piece for Theatr Soffa, our online community theatre company. We are now accepting submissions of scripts which:- • reads for 15-30 minutes • with multiple characters • not previously produced The writer will receive a £100 fee for taking part in an online readthrough and discussion session and as an equivalent to performance rights. Send your scripts to Bethan Morgan via info@span-arts.org.uk Deadline: January 19th 2024. For more information contact Bethan via info@span-arts.org.uk
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Creative Connections

Being a carer is a demanding and selfless role that often leaves little time for self-care and personal growth. However, recognizing the importance of nurturing one’s creative spirit and building a supportive community, the Creative Connections programme is here to offer a unique opportunity for carers to explore new skills, forge meaningful connections, and take a moment for themselves. The Creative Connections Programme Free Weekly Creative Sessions: Starting from January and continuing through March 2024, these eight weekly sessions promise a rejuvenating experience for carers. Whether you care for a family member, a friend, or work professionally as a carer, these sessions are designed with you in mind.  Music with Holly Robinson – Thurs Feb 1st & Thurs Feb 8th – 10am – 12.30pm Come and join experienced music therapist Holly Robinson for workshop sessions exploring music for wellbeing. Sessions will include activities such as listening to music, playing instruments, and creating playlists. No need to have had any previous experience, but great if you do. Textiles with Menna Buss – Thurs Feb 22nd & Thurs Feb 29th – 10am – 12.30pm Try out different techniques and discover creative possibilities with textiles in this relaxed and supportive environment. All levels

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Creative Connections Artist Call-Out

Are you an experienced creative workshop facilitator? Are you experienced in working with carers, young carers, or both? SPAN Arts is looking for arts workshop facilitators working in different mediums, from music to printmaking, movement to photography, to run sessions as part of our Creative Connections programme running creative sessions for carers in Narberth, Pembrokeshire, across February and March 2024. Please send a cover letter up to 1 side of A4 (400 words) describing your experience of this type of work along with a copy of your CV to info@span-arts.org.uk by 5pm Friday 8th December. Alternatively, you can send a 5-minute audio or video recording that covers the same information if that is more accessible. All applicants will need to have up to date DBS checks. We aim to contact all applicants of decisions by Monday 18th December. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at the above email address or on 01834 869323 with any questions.

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Immerse Yourself in the Enchantment of Our Annual Advent Concert!

The festive season is just around the corner, and what better way to embrace its spirit than by joining us for our highly anticipated annual Advent Concert! We are delighted to unveil the incredible lineup for this year's event, featuring the exceptional talents of the renowned soprano, Jessica Robinson, and the esteemed Whitland Male Voice Choir. Jessica Robinson: A Soprano Extraordinaire Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Pembrokeshire, Jessica Robinson is set to grace our stage with her mesmerizing voice. A distinguished graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Jessica boasts an illustrious career, adorned with numerous awards and accolades. Her journey has been punctuated by stellar performances with esteemed institutions like the CBSO, leaving audiences spellbound at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Wales Millennium Centre. Notably, she had the honor of performing for HRH The Prince of Wales at the prestigious Buckingham Palace. Jessica's diverse repertoire and unmatched artistry promise to enrapture the audience and create an unforgettable musical experience. Whitland & District Male Voice Choir: A Legacy of Harmony Adding to the evening's grandeur, the revered Whitland & District Male Voice Choir will weave a rich tapestry of harmonies, carrying
collaborators

Lou Luddington

Lou Luddington is a photographer and writer, Their work is very much inspired by the natural marine biology, as an observer and scientist knowing the life and stories of the species and environment, they’re surrounded by helps them create visually compelling art work. They have been writing and providing photos for columns and featured in magazines for many years, also publishing their first book in 2019 , Wonderous British Marine Life: A Handbook For Coastal Explorers.

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Cân Sing: Singing for the Soul

Cân Sing is a bi-monthly singing group for all abilities which celebrates the uplifting benefits of singing.   The group has been meeting for many years, with new additions along the way. It’s perfect if you are looking to sing regularly in a pressure-free environment, or whether you fancy dropping in for a sing every so often. The pace of the teaching is easily accessible to all, with no time restraints.  Vocal practitioner Molara guides the group through an exploratory celebration of singing, focusing on strengthening the voice, overcoming some of the physical and emotional barriers to singing openly and freely, and above all, singing for enjoyment.  The repertoire is varied with songs from Georgia, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Hawaii with a few shanties and some pop thrown in for good measure.  The project has provided vital support and connection and helped to improve people’s wellbeing at this most difficult time. Singers have found the experience “Stimulating, connecting and heart-warming” with “with just the right mix of warm-up, chat and song.”   Date: Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, except Bank Holidays, with a break over August  Time: 7pm – 9pm  Location: The SPAN Arts building, Town Moor, Narberth, SA67 7AG 

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Vital Footsteps Workshop

In a world where the urgency of climate change is undeniable, it's vital that we take moments to pause, reflect, and consider our relationship with the environment. Vital Footsteps is a unique, free workshop in Pembrokeshire that provides a meditative space for individuals to contemplate climate care. Hosted in conjunction with The Motion Pack's enlightening project, "In the Silence of Blossoms," this 1.5-hour workshop promises a serene journey through mindful movement, creative letter writing, and open discussions about our ever-changing planet. As we gather amidst the stunning landscapes of Pembrokeshire, participants will engage in mindful movement exercises. These movements will not only bring you closer to the natural world but will also help you connect with your inner self, fostering a sense of harmony and balance. Climate change is a complex issue, and discussing it openly is essential. In our patient talking space, you'll have the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversations about climate care, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to a broader discussion on our relationship with people and land. Join the Journey: If you're eager to take gentle steps towards environmental harmony and become a part of a larger dialogue on the significance of connecting with both
collaborators

Emily Laurens

Emily Laurens is a multi-disciplinary socially engaged artist based in Wales. Central to her practice is collaboration and work with communities. Most of her work is about the relationship between ecological crisis and social justice and uses metaphor to better understand the world and how radical imagination can be used to envision new futures. Emily works at the intersections between mediums: using visual theatre, live art, comedy and clown as a performer/writer/director; puppetry, the body and costume as a designer/maker/film-maker; and as a community artist working with a range of artistic disciplines. Emily is an exemplary facilitator and her work is rooted in intuitive and creative research methods and a non-extractive ethos. Emily co-directs Feral Theatre and is co-founder of Remembrance Day for Lost Species. She works part time as Play Officer for the National Trust at Dinefwr and is studying on a three year Masters programme in Art Psychotherapy at the University of South Wales.

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Share Your Story in a Captivating New Play! Farmers, Townies & Grocles

Are you ready to have your voice heard on the theatrical stage? Award-winning writer Ceri Ashe is embarking on an exhilarating journey to capture the essence of Pembrokeshire through an exciting new play. Titled 'FARMERS TOWNIES AND GROCLES,' this play aims to unravel the vibrant tapestry of voices that shape our rural community. If you're passionate about Pembrokeshire and want to contribute to a unique storytelling experience, we invite you to join us for a thrilling story-telling workshop. Led by the talented Ceri Ashe, this workshop promises to be both engaging and enjoyable. Through a series of interactive exercises, you'll have the opportunity to share your personal experiences of being a resident of this picturesque county. The stories collected during these workshops might even become an integral part of a mesmerizing theatre production slated for the coming year. Imagine seeing your experiences come to life on stage, resonating with fellow Pembrokeshire residents and audiences alike. Ready to be a part of this exciting journey? To secure your spot in the workshop, simply email us at info@poptypingproductions.co.uk. Don't miss out on this chance to celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of Pembrokeshire through the captivating world of theatre. Your story could become
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‘Howl’ Areal Theatre Performance

Welcome to the enchanting world of “Howl,” a captivating tale that weaves magic, power, and unexpected transformations. Join us on a thrilling journey through this extraordinary story, where a woman’s life takes an unexpected turn, leading to fascinating encounters and delightful mischief. In “Howl,” a woman finds herself becoming a werewolf when she least expects it. Suddenly, she becomes an immensely powerful, ferocious, and cunning creature, inspiring both fear and awe in those she encounters. Yet, mastering her wolf-self proves to be a challenge, especially when she realizes she can harness its power to her advantage, while never quite getting used to having such hairy arms! Enter Claire Crook, a brilliant circus and theatre performer, who takes us on a captivating journey celebrating the strength of women, the allure of magic, and the ability to overcome adversity. Experience the exhilarating power of turning disadvantages into advantages through this interactive tale that combines aerial and physical theatre with mesmerizing dance performances. Although “Howl” is performed in Welsh, the magic of this theatrical wonder transcends language barriers, making it accessible and enjoyable for non-Welsh speakers as well. Embrace the richness of Welsh culture while getting lost in the mesmerizing magic of “Howl.”
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