Carmarthen is set to be the spotlight for Welsh cinema as it hosts the Wales premiere of the thrilling new horror film “Scopophobia” on Saturday, 7 September, at 7:30 PM at the Lyric Theatre. The film, a gripping tale about fear and guilt, is a production by Carmarthen’s own Aled Owen and his co-producer Tom Rawding from Portsmouth, under the banner of their local production company, Melyn Pictures Ltd.
“Scopophobia” explores the psychological horror of being watched, centring around the character Rhiannon, played by Catrin Jones from Swansea. The story unravels as Rhiannon, still haunted by her involvement in a teenage theft at a local steel mill, reunites with her friends to recover stolen money hidden years ago. What starts as a simple retrieval turns into a chilling encounter when the group finds themselves locked inside the now-abandoned mill, pursued by an unseen threat.
The film features a talented all-Welsh cast, including Carmarthen’s own Bethany Williams-Potter, Emma Stacey from Bridgend, and Ellen Jane-Thomas from Tenby, alongside seasoned Carmarthen actors Ioan Hefin, Christine Kempell, and Lisa Marged. The Welsh premiere at the Lyric Theatre will be a homecoming for many involved, celebrating the local talent and community spirit that made the film possible.
Carmarthenshire County Council supports film and drama productions of all scales and sizes, with the emphasis always on the benefit to the local community and local economy. To date this year, the council has received and supported 62 filming requests. For further information, visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/filming.
The public is warmly invited to join the celebration at the Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen, on Saturday, 7 September. Doors will open at 6:30 PM, with the screening starting at 7:30 PM. Attendees can enjoy a drink on the red carpet and a photo opportunity before the screening begins. Tickets are available for purchase by the public through the Carmarthenshire Theatres website.
Following its debut at the Lyric Theatre, audiences can enjoy a special performance by Carmarthen musician GG Fearn at Cwrw on King Street, where she will perform songs featured in the film, adding to the celebration of the film’s release.
Aled Owen, the writer, director, and producer of “Scopophobia,” reflects on his experience filming in his hometown:
“As a Carmarthen boy, born and raised, it fills me with pride that the Carmarthenshire County Council was so understanding of our attempts at creating an opportunity for ourselves as young filmmakers. Filmmaking feels like an impossible task at the best of times, so the Council’s willingness to collaborate was a godsend for us and our limited resources.”
Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture & Tourism, shared her enthusiasm for the premiere:
“I am thrilled to see ‘Scopophobia’ make its debut in Carmarthen. This film not only showcases the incredible talent of our local filmmakers but also highlights the vibrant cultural landscape of our community. Supporting such creative endeavours aligns with our commitment to fostering local arts and tourism, and we are proud to have played a role in bringing this exciting project to fruition.”
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to support local film talent and experience a night of suspense and excitement. Join us at the Lyric Theatre for the Welsh premiere of Scopophobia. Find out more about what is on at Theatrau SirGar here.
