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A new theatre group in Pontlottyn is bringing fresh creative opportunities to the area.

The group is based at St Tyfaelog Church Hall. Father Darren Lynch, curate of St Tyfaelog Church, told Caerphilly Observer that it was a welcome addition.

“Pontlottyn is crying out for something like this,” said Fr Darren. “It’s crying out for a community event.”

Although Fr Darren isn’t directly involved with the group, it is a family affair – with his wife, Louise, running the group for children aged eight-plus and adults, and his eldest daughter Rachel, 13, running the group for ages four to eight.

“My daughter Rachel teaches that group under supervision,” said Fr Darren, “she’s a big fan of drama.”

The first sessions took place on September 13 with 11 people getting involved – including both children and adults.

Fr Darren’s wife, Louise, teaches the older children and adults and has experience in drama – including around six years spent with Bedwas Theatre Group.

There are already for the future, according to Fr Darren who said: “We’ve got views to put shows on.”

“What Louise tries to do is sort of tailor the productions to people’s ability levels,” continued Fr Darren.

This means meeting participants at their level to start with but “giving them confidence and helping them grow”.

He continued: “So, If you’re a bit of an introvert and maybe not the best of singers, by the time the show comes you’ll be at a level where you think ‘you know what, I’m up for this’.”

Some attendees are already showing promise, according to Fr Darren.

“Some of the older ones were just straight in,” he said. “And already I was thinking – you’ve got an Oscar in your future.”

If things continue to progress then Fr Darren is happy to take performances on the road and perform in places like local schools.

“If we get enough people I would happily take them travelling as well,” he added.

This could very well be the case, as from what Fr Darren has already seen as people are keen to get involved.

Fr Darren added: “I had people in Pontlottyn stopping me and saying ‘Oh Rev, when’s the drama group on?’”

The theatre classes run every Wednesday. Ages four to eight runs from 4.30pm to 5.30pm with the class for over eights to adults running from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

Both classes are in St Tyfaelog Church Hall and cost £1 per person.