From Milford Haven to Marketing the Arts: My Pembrokeshire Story. Torch Theatre’s new Marketing Manager, Glenn Hewer introduces himself ...

There is something about Pembrokeshire that gets under your skin. The coastline, the communities, the sense that people look out for one another — it all shapes you. For me, growing up in and around Milford Haven gave me a strong connection to the place, people and purpose. It is a thread that has run through my life, from serving as a Royal Marines Commando, to building a career in tourism and hospitality, to supporting young people and the Armed Forces community, and now helping champion the arts at the Torch Theatre.

A journey built on service and resilience

Before returning home to Wales in 2008, I served for over six years as a Royal Marines Commando. That chapter shaped a great deal of who I am today. It taught me resilience, discipline, humour under pressure, and the importance of looking after the people around you. Those lessons have stayed with me in every part of life — at work, in volunteering, in family life, and in the way I try to contribute to my community.

Rooted in people, place and purpose

Whatever role I have taken on, the part that has mattered most to me has always been people. I enjoy building relationships, understanding what motivates others, and helping create moments that feel meaningful. Whether that is welcoming visitors to Pembrokeshire, supporting colleagues, encouraging young people, or helping an audience discover something new, I am drawn to work that brings people together.

Pembrokeshire has played a huge part in shaping that outlook. It is a place where community still matters, where a conversation can turn into an opportunity, and where people often give their time because they care. That sense of belonging has influenced how I approach both my professional life and my volunteering. I want to be someone who contributes, connects and helps make good things happen locally.

Giving back to the community

Community has always mattered to me. Public profiles and local coverage show my involvement as a volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officer and with Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets. Working with young people is especially rewarding because cadets gain confidence, learn practical skills and discover what they are capable of through challenge, teamwork and adventure.

That spirit of giving back is also why fundraising challenges and support for veteran-focused causes mean so much to me. The connection between service, community and personal growth is not abstract — it is something I have seen first-hand in people’s lives. 

A new chapter at the Torch Theatre

My move into marketing at the Torch Theatre feels like a natural next chapter. The Torch is a cultural landmark for Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire, bringing together live performance, cinema, community projects, youth theatre and creative opportunities. It is a place where stories are shared, local talent is nurtured and audiences of all ages can experience something memorable.

Marketing the arts is about more than selling tickets. It is about building relationships, widening access and helping people see that theatre, film and creativity belong to everyone. Whether through a live show, a family cinema visit, a youth workshop or an outdoor Sunset Cinema experience, the opportunity is to make the Torch feel visible, welcoming and essential to the community it serves.

With the Torch Theatre’s 50th year coming next year, there is already a real sense of excitement about what lies ahead. Here at the Torch, we are looking at some big announcements to help celebrate this milestone year, honour the theatre’s history and look forward to the next chapter for arts, culture and community in Pembrokeshire.

What drives me

Looking back, the common theme is people. Serving alongside people. Welcoming people. Supporting people. Encouraging young people. Bringing people together through culture and shared experiences. Pembrokeshire has shaped that outlook, and I am proud to keep playing a part in the life of this county.

My story is still evolving, but the direction remains the same: to use experience, energy and local pride to help people connect — with each other, with opportunities and with the very best of Pembrokeshire.

If you would like to know more, get involved, or simply see what is happening next, please do get in touch, come and visit us, and support the Torch Theatre and the incredible community around it. Every ticket bought, every conversation shared and every visit made helps keep this special place thriving for Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire and beyond.

Image: EZC