Experiencing the arts can be inspiring, challenging, engaging, and fun, and has an important part to play in the learning experiences of young people wherever in Wales, they live. The Torch Theatre is, encouraging all schools across Pembrokeshire to apply for the Arts Council of Wales’ Go and See Fund. This pot of money supports schools to access high quality arts provisions, and what better way to do that than by seeing Torch Theatre’s autumn production of Turn of the Screw and the festive pantomime, Rapunzel.

Last year, the Torch Theatre had record number of schools applying for the fund.

“It was great seeing so many schools applying for the Fund, and for six to be successful. We know that rising costs across the board make trips to the theatre a costly business, so it is great that the Arts Council has created these funds to make sure that no one misses out! The successful schools were able to use the funds to contribute towards travel and tickets”,” said Tim Howe, Senior Manager, Youth and Community at the Torch.

“If you, or your school are applying please do not hesitate to get in touch with us and we’d be more than happy to assist you”, Tim concluded.

Pupils from Golden Grove School attended the pantomime of Jack and the Beanstalk at the Torch Theatre last year having been successful in their application for the Go and See Fund.

“Accessing the grant was a great way of making it easier for our children to experience the live 'theatre' experience. The excitement, laughter and joy they shared became treasured memories. The magic of the pantomime brought Christmas to life for them, and this was made possible from the grant,” said Andy Williams, Headmaster of the school who will be making an application again this year.

The ‘Go and See’ fund awards up to £1000 to any school that applies within five weeks of attending their arts experience. The Arts Council also have a second pot available called ‘Have a Go’ which schools can access for workshops and hands-on activity that focuses on the expressive arts. This £1500 pot is ideal for inviting Torch Theatre into schools for creative activities linked to their autumn and Christmas productions.

The Turn of the Screw will appear on the Torch Theatre stage from Wednesday 8 October to Saturday 25 October. Tickets: £18-£28. Rapunzel can be seen from Saturday 6 December to Sunday 28 December. Schools performances begin from 26th November. School Group prices are available.

To book tickets via the website visit torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on 01646 695267. Or for advice on either of the funds mentioned contact tim@torchtheatre.co.uk.