Rapunzel, Torch Theatre’s festive pantomime is in full swing. With luscious golden locks aplenty, the Torch Marketing Team collaborated with the Hair and Beauty department at Pembrokeshire College in Haverfordwest to host a hair Braiding Competition.

Emma Cox and Jenny Algieri from the Torch Marketing Team headed off to the College with stop watches in hand as five students raced to braid hair against the clock.

Torch Theatre’s Marketing Officer, Emma Cox said:

“We had great fun and the students were really keen to take part. We asked them to braid hair and timed them to see who was the quickest. The times were close, but it was Laura who won the competition in a time of 52 seconds.” 

Marcus Smith, Hair and Beauty Tutor at the College was delighted that his students took part. He said:

"It was lovely to collaborate with a local theatre and for our students to get involved to showcase their skills on camera.”

Hair has been the main theme of the pantomime this year and in celebration of Rapunzel, members of the Torch Theatre Marketing Team put their heads together and created a meaningful campaign, that raised both funds and awareness around hair loss - and who better to support than The Little Princess Trust.

Tim Howe, the Torch Theatre’s Senior Youth and Community Manager made the brave commitment to shave his hair in support of the charity. Joined by Youth Theatre members and Torch staff, the event was filled with applause, encouragement and plenty of smiles, keeping the moment light-hearted while honouring a powerful cause.

The Little Princess Trust does incredible work providing free, real-hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their hair through cancer treatment or other medical conditions, helping to restore confidence during an incredibly challenging time.

Although Tim’s hair wasn’t quite long enough to be donated for a wig, the gesture still made a big impact. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, the Torch Theatre raised £100, which will go towards supporting the Trust’s vital work and the young people they help.

Tim’s head shave was carried out by Callie Thorpe, a Youth Theatre member currently studying Level 3 Hair and Beauty at Pembrokeshire College, making the moment even more special and community-led.

Rapunzel, the hair-raising adventure can be seen on the Torch Theatre stage from now to Sunday 28 December. Ticket price: £24.50 | £20.00 Cons | £78.00 Family. For further information visit the Torch Theatre website www.torchtheatre.co.uk / phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267 or click here.