The Board of Directors

Stuart Bawler
Stuart BawlerChairperson
From early experiments with ultra-violet light at 90s rave parties to performing in front of millions on Britain’s Got Talent, Stuart Bawler has always followed his curiosity. What began with fire juggling in the hills of mid Wales has evolved into a professional company of freelance dancers, circus and puppetry artists, illusionists and musicians who collaborate to bring a sense of awe, wonder and joy to people of all ages, abilities and creative interests. In 1992, fresh out of a drama degree in Aberystwyth, Stuart lit up Wales’ festival scene with fire and juggling shows for festivals in mid and north Wales. This was a period when ultraviolet (UV) light began to be used in the rave and club scenes, and Stu wondered, what if … I could use that to create theatrical performances?
Martin Wells
Martin WellsFinance Director
Having spent nearly fifty years working for engineering companies based in South Wales and holding a number of Board positions, I retired just prior to Covid.
Having enjoyed my working life, I realised during the enforced lockdown that my love of performing arts and music in particular had taken a backseat to my work and family life.
At the end of 2022 I replied to a advertisement by the Melville CIC for a Financial Director and thankfully they accepted me into the company.
I find it refreshing that not only do we promote the Arts, especially for up and coming young talent, but we support our community by providing meeting spaces for diverse activities and groups.
If like me you feel drawn to supporting the local community and the Arts in general I would encourage those that have the relevant proven experience, skills and commitment to join us.
David Williams
David Williams Director
David has 40 years’ experience of corporate management and business governance in both SME and blue-chip environments. He continues to be involved in business where he currently holds a number of directorships in both non-executive and executive roles. David also mentors entrepreneurs and businesses and seeks to promote enterprise and entrepreneurship, especially in SME and Third sector environments.

As a portraiture hobbyist and former musician, David is passionate about the arts and, being an Abergavenny resident, has been closely involved with the Melville Centre for the Arts CIC (MCA) since before its inception, having been an advisor to the founding Working Group and later the CIC before joining the Board himself.

In his role as a director, David provides commercial and strategic support to the MCA Board and is excited to see the Centre develop and grow into an important inclusive hub of the arts for the local community, Wales and the wider region.

Stan Pochron
Stan PochronAdvisor
Retired Chief Executive/ Company Secretary – represented and promoted 60 Apprenticeship Training Providers on Merseyside to Local, North West, and Government Agencies.

“My vision for Melville is to provide the people of Abergavenny and surrounding area, with thriving Centre for artists of all disciplines, to meet, learn, rehearse, display, teach and offer space to build and encourage the arts to flourish in Abergavenny in the widest sense!”

Ian Smith
Ian SmithAdvisor
Ian Smith, former Company Director and Chartered Accountant.

“I see this as an opportunity to create a vibrant artistic center to add to Abergavenny’s already rich cultural life.”

David Price
David Price Advisor

LEARN WELSH

Coleg Gwent delivers Dysgu Cymraeg classes for Welsh learners at the MCA at all levels. In term time we have 13 Welsh classes a week.

CRAFTS

Stitch Together meets every Thursday morning for two hours. Participants bring their craft projects and enjoy the company, swapping skills and ideas.

DANCEBLAST

Dance Blast is the dance development organisation for Monmouthshire. We deliver a wide range of activities for adults and children.

CAREERS WALES

At Careers Wales we can help you to plan your career, prepare to get a job, and find and apply for the right apprenticeships, courses and training.

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