Theatr Gwaun

Theatr Gwaun stands in Fishguard, a small port town on the north coast of Pembrokeshire. The building began life in 1885 as a Temperance hall, designed to provide alcohol-free social space. For a few weeks in 1895 it served as a school before becoming a cinema in the 1920s. Originally it was called The Studio Cinema and operated as a sister venue to one in Bristol. The Smedley family ran the cinema until 1993, when the local authority took over management. The theatre offers a wide range of entertainment including films, live jazz, youth theatre and community events. In 1994 it was refurbished and renamed Theatr Gwaun, though the council still owned the building. By 2010 the council planned to close the venue, but a local campaign group called Friends of Theatr Gwaun fought to keep it open. In 2018 the theatre was transferred into community ownership through a Community Asset Transfer. Inside, the auditorium has 180 seats and is designed for easy access. The stage hosts regular performances while the foyer displays posters and programmes. The building retains many original features alongside modern improvements. Outside, Fishguard’s harbour and coastal paths provide scenic views. The town itself has a quiet charm with local shops and cafés nearby.