A WELL-KNOWN theatre group which has performed a variety of famous productions is celebrating a big anniversary.

From Les Misérables to West Side Story, the Congress Youth Theatre has attracted people from across the country to a variety of its productions.

And now the group, which operates from the Congress Theatre in Cwmbran town centre, is marking its 25th anniversary this week.

Rachel Hamilton, who is from Cwmbran, started the youth group 25 years ago.

“My father worked in the theatre,” she said.

“I was envious and thought that one day I wanted to become a director of a theatre group.

“It was my dream to set up a drama school in Torfaen.”

Mrs Hamilton then went away to drama school, but when she returned she was determined to achieve her dream.

“I went around all the local schools,” said the 52-year-old.

“I put up posters asking if anyone would be interested.

“I was expecting 20 but 120 children turned up.”

She added: “I chose the Congress Theatre to house our group because it is a lovely site and well-known.

“I am now the director of the group.”

The group has performed a staggering 60 productions, and to mark its anniversary performed West Side Story.

“They did so well,” said the director.

“It is wonderful to see their smiles and all the hard work pay off.”

She added: “I would like to thank five people in particular - Wayne Beecham, Martyn Redwood, Meryl Herbet, Gareth Tucker and Matthew Hunt - for all their hard work.

“We have the best jobs in the world.”

News of the group’s anniversary saw past pupils send congratulatory messages.

James Evans said he used to attend drama lessons 20 years ago.

The now 35-year-old said he holds the group “close” to his heart.

“They were always so friendly,” said the drama teacher.

“I have wonderful memories at the Congress. It was there that my confidence grew and grew, and I decided to become a drama teacher.”

Another ex-pupil Louis Poole said he was “happy” that the group had reached its 25th anniversary.

He said: “It is amazing that they are now celebrating this big anniversary. The group plays a big part in Torfaen.

“Rachel, Wayne and the other staff were amazing.”