The Torch Theatre welcomes Milford Haven born and bred actor, Samuel Freeman to its stage this October in The Turn of the Screw. A familiar face here at the Torch, Samuel started his acting career as a member of the Torch Youth Theatre. Anwen went to find out more about what we can expect from this heart-pounding production ...

Tell us a bit about your character / characters in The Turn of the Screw?

I am lucky to play a bunch of characters to help tell the Governess' Story: The dashing and aloof uncle, the childish and intense Master Miles and the bustling loyal Mrs. Grose.

How difficult is it to go from one character to another?

Some of the changes of character are fast or even immediate, as our heroine makes her way through Bly Manor. I'm lucky enough to have such a great script in front of me that focuses on telling a strong, mysterious and compelling story, help to sense of the switching.

How do you go about learning the script when you have several roles to play?

Learning any lines can be difficult before getting them on their feet. But what helps with multi-rolling is making distinct choices in your head about WHO those characters are. Sometimes it's as simple as imaging them as block colours, or elements.

What are the main challenges in this haunting play?

Atmosphere. We are just two actors on stage trying to build a world around us and of course, making something quite scary!

Do you enjoy horrors and psychological thrillers? If so, which ones have inspired you?

Absolutely, I find the 'unknowing' thrillers are the most effective. The Shining, The Woman in Black, There Will Be Blood... all have been big inspirations for me in this role.

What part of the play is your favourite and why?

The thrilling whispers of the clandestine meetings between Mrs. Grose and the Governess!

You’re a familiar face on the Torch stage – what’s it like coming back this year again?

Always a pleasure, and so exciting to be returning to something so vastly different from panto.

As it’s such a haunting play, do you think that you’ll be looking over your shoulder after this production has come to an end?

A big part of this story is our willingness to believe the unbelievable. Perhaps something we think we have seen. And I certainly am starting to hear all the bumps in the night. I wish all who watch The Turn Of The Screw a safe trip...and that they don't jump too far out of their seats! 

The Turn of the Screw will appear on the Torch Theatre stage for a three week stint from Wednesday 8 October to Saturday 25 October. Tickets: £18-£28. BSL: Tuesday 14 October. Book tickets via the website torchtheatre.co.uk / Box Office: 01646 695267 or click here.