Enjoy the South West's freshest craft beers on draught and in cans in festival tents, at the Ventnor Exchange bar, and at pop-up venues across town.
We’re so excited to welcome you to Ventnor Fringe for our 16th edition, as the town once again opens its doors and hearts to hundreds of performers from near and far.
Explore over 130 different ticketed shows listed in this programme, and beyond this the wider ‘Free Fringe’ which spills out into venues across the town, with street food, makers markets, jugglers, giant puppets, exhibitions, buskers and audio trails around every corner!
At the Fringe, all artforms are welcome and performers at all stages of their career rub shoulders together, test new material and refi ne their craft. Pick and choose whichever shows you’d like to see, or simply explore the town and Fringe Village in Ventnor Park to soak up the atmosphere and watch the free entertainment on offer.
The festival was founded by local teenagers and is now organised by Ventnor Exchange,
which you can visit on Church Street year round. We’re a ‘not for profi t’ organisation re-investing into local creative projects and our work with young people. In the past year alone we’ve provided opportunities for over 600 local 14-25 year olds, some of whom will be performing, exhibiting, and working behind the scenes!
Whether it’s your very fi rst visit, or you’ve been with us since the beginning, thank you for supporting live entertainment and being part of creating something truly special in a unique part of the world. We hope you have a wonderful Fringe.
How to
With so much on at the Fringe it can be hard to know where to start!
We’ve put together some helpful tips to help you make the most of your time in Ventnor.
Whether you’re a seasoned Fringe veteran, or it’s your very fi rst time at the festival, follow our advice and you won’t go wrong!
When in doubt,
head to the box office
If you’re ever not sure where to go, what to do, or need some advice on how to work your way around the Fringe, your best bet is to make a beeline for Ventnor Exchange, 11 Church Street, PO38 1SW. This is the main Box Offi ce and information point where our team is on hand to help. Ventnor Exchange is open from 10:00–23:00 every day during the Fringe. There is also a Box Offi ce tent in Ventnor Park next to the main entrance open 10:00–22:00 daily.
Variety is the Spice of Life
Ventnor Fringe features just about every artistic discipline you can imagine so don’t just stick to what you know, get stuck in! Take a chance - after all, variety is the spice of life and some of the best experiences come when you’re willing to take a risk and try something new.
Culture Pass 2FOR1 ticket offers
If you’re going to see a lot of shows at the festival it might be worth becoming a Culture Pass holder. This costs £35 annually and gives you access to loads of 2for1 ticket deals. Culture Pass holders also get the same 2for1 deal on shows at Ventnor Exchange all year. Bargain!
Explore the Free Fringe
Book (some) tickets fast!
It’s always fun to explore on the day and see what takes your fancy, but if there are a few key shows you really want to see it’s worth booking quickly as many performances will sell out. In particular look out for shows in smaller venues like Ventnor Arts Club and Pier St Playhouse.
Listen to our Podcast
In the lead up to the event we’ll be releasing our ‘How To Fringe’ weekly podcast packed with interviews and top tips for how to make the most of your time at the festival. Check out our website for links and to download/stream on your device of choice.
Booking Terms & Conditions
All tickets are non-refundable and nontransferable. Venues will accept printed tickets or e-tickets displayed on a mobile phone. ID may be required if you have lost your tickets, or if you have purchased a Culture/ Unlimited Pass or concessionary ticket. All bookings are subject to our full Terms & Conditions which are available on our website.
Disclaimer
Ventnor Fringe is run by Ventnor Exchange CIC, a not for profi t organisation that exists to provide creative opportunities and develop a creative community and economy on the Island. To the best of our knowledge, the information contained within this programme is correct at the time of print. Ventnor Exchange accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the content contained, and reserves the right to alter the programme without prior warning. Ventnor Exchange sells tickets on behalf of the artists taking part in the Festival.
Booking Tickets
You can book tickets for all Ventnor Fringe events through the Ventnor Exchange.
In Person
Visit Ventnor Exchange, 11, Church Street, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1SW, Open from 10:00–23:00 during the festival
Accessibility at the Fringe
We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy the Ventnor Fringe. This year we’ve made a range of improvements to make the event as accessible as possible
Steps
All venues have step-free access except the following:
Ventnor Exchange (two steps at entrance)
Ventnor Arts Club (one step at entrance and steps to toilets)
Ingrams Yard (approx 20 steps)
There is step free access to all venues within the Fringe Village at Ventnor Park, but the pathway to Flowersbrook is very steep. Photos and more information is available on our website vfringe.co.uk
Carers/ Assistants
We’re happy to provide free tickets to registered carers/assistants. Please let the Box Offi ce know when booking and we’ll issue a complimentary ticket.
Seating is not normally allocated for most shows at Ventnor Fringe, so if you require space for a wheelchair or feel you need to be on the front row for the performance we will have accessible spaces reserved for every venue. To book these please update your online setting in our box offi ce or by calling the box offi ce or visiting Ventnor Exchange.
Toilets
There are disabled toilets in the following locations:
Ventnor Park (for Bosco and The Bijou)
Flowersbrook (for The Big Top)
St. Catherine’s Church
Ingrams Yard
Pier Street Playhouse
Additional Information
Please check out our website for more info: vfringe.co.uk/access-at-the-fringe
If you have any specifi c enquiries please feel free to contact us on 01983 716767 or email hello@vfringe.co.uk
VE NUES
Downtown
Head into downtown Ventnor and among the town’s independent shops and cafes you’ll come across a whole host of pop-up theatres, bars and galleries.
Ventnor Exchange
11 Church Street, PO38 1SW
This is the central information point and hub of the Fringe. Purchase tickets for any events, get advice and information on what to see, or fi nd help with any other enquiries.
Ventnor Exchange also houses an epic craft beer bar with a great atmosphere, cocktail menu, and fresh coffee.
Open 10:00–00:00
St.
Catherine’s Church & Fringe Square
Church Street, PO38 1SW
Directly opposite Ventnor Exchange, St. Catherine’s is a beautiful church, adapted with modern facilities to make it the perfect place for intimate concerts.
Outside is the Fringe Square, outdoor seating area and busking stage. Also home to The Book Bus, housed in a beautiful 1930’s Parisian bus, as well as a book market.
Church open for events only.
Book Bus open Wed 23 rd –Sat 26th
Ingrams Yard
Dudley Road, PO38 1EF
Ingrams Yard is centred around a courtyard, a real sun trap, hidden just off the High Street. It’s a great central point to meet up with craft beer, cocktails and food all available. Immersive show Arcade is based in a shipping container located in the yard and inside the building you’ll fi nd a ‘pop up’ theatre space in the joinery workshop which hosts some of the best stand up comedy shows, clown acts and alternative theatre.\
Open 10:00–23:00 Bar Open 12:00–23:00
Ventnor Arts Club
13 High Street, PO38 1RZ
An art deco bank, now converted into a luxurious cinema and venue, with armchair seating and a bar in the vaults! This is the perfect place to catch intimate concerts and comedy, with up to 4 shows a day. With just 45 seats, shows here can sell out fast!
Open for events only
Pier Street Playhouse
Pier Street, PO38 1SX
Right in the centre of town, the Baptist Church transforms into a little theatre during the Fringe with new writing, plays and comedy daily.
Open for events only
Makers’ Market
St. Catherine’s Church
On Saturday 19 th & Saturday 26th July we will be holding the Makers Market at St. Catherine’s Church. Free entry to stalls of all kinds of makers - art, jewellery, crafts, cosmetics come and have a browse!
VE NUES
The Fringe Village
The Fringe Village is a whole festival in its own right, and home to some of the larger shows at the Fringe, as well as being a great spot for families with lots of events and activities for children. There are buskers, workshops and stalls to explore every day along with these key venues based in Ventnor Park & Flowersbrook:
Ventnor Exchange Arena
Flowersbrook, PO38 1LF
Just beyond the edge of Ventnor Park is Flowersbrook, a beautiful fi eld housing the Ventnor Exchange Arena big top tent, Our largest venue, with stunning views out to sea and towards Ventnor Bay.
Open for events only
Rotunda
Flowersbrook, PO38 1LF
A great place to see some of the most exciting new stand-ups on the circuit, with a whole selection of Edinburgh Previews and intimate music events called The Fringe Club. During the daytime this venue hosts the free fringe showcase as well as workshops and DJ’s.
Open for events only
Bosco Theatre
The Putting Green, Park Ave, PO38 1LE
New for 2025! We are excited to have The Bosco Theatre which is an original Dutch “Kermis-circus” tent, built in 1909. It was used by the Ophof family who performed their own family circus in it. This venue will host everything from opera to live hypnosis, drag bingo and Shakespeare.
Open for events only
The Bijou
Ventnor Park, Park Ave, PO38 1LE
The Bijou is an intimate tented venue designed for poetry, storytelling and comedy & cabaret shows. This is a truly ‘fringey’ venue where you might fi nd something weird and wonderful like banana throwing or anarchic poetry.
Open for events only
Health & Wellbeing
Looking to unwind? This year across the Fringe Village you’ll fi nd yoga sessions, raki and soundbaths as well as massages from Isle Heal Holistic Fayres & Retreats and Klys Coastal Sauna, a fully portable sauna!
Find out more and book sessions directly at vfringe.co.uk
Food & Drink
Street Food
Feeling peckish? This year the Fringe Village in Ventnor Park will be home to a varied selection of street food offerings. From fresh pizza to aioli fries, vegan curries and lobster. Evolving throughout the 10 days of the festival with different traders, be sure to visit on multiple days to see what’s on offer! Traders joining us include…
Vintage Scoops
Need to cool down? Vintage Scoops have you covered with Bertie, their traditional ice cream tricycle and Betty, a beautiful 1973 vintage Bedford ice cream van.
The Hungry Raccoon Pizza
Independent food truck that offers a variety of foods and truly loves pizza... like a Raccoon :)
The Harbour Kitchen
Nobody does french fries quite like Harbour Kitchen. Serving everything from your classic cheesy fries to homemade vegan aioli!
Curry on Wheels
Charles and his team are back with their delicious homemade curries. Look out for the red van.
Tibetan Memories
Elissa and Namdi’ are bringing traditional Tibetan cuisine to Ventnor. Namdi instinctively uses a uniquely Tibetan process of mindfulness in food production which he absorbed during his intense monastic training. Specialities include sweetheart Momo’s (dumplings) and noodle soup.
T in the Park
The Putting Green’s T in the Park Café, run by Jackie and her team, will be open throughout the Fringe, serving hot dogs, burgers, sausage rolls, cakes, ice creams and teas and coffees - great for pre-show snacks.
Surf n Burgs
Once upon a time in Folkestone, it was decided the world needed more lobster in its life. Not the posh, sit-down-and- behave kind, but proper, street-level lobster. The kind you can devour with one hand while your other hand holds a pint, a glow stick, or your dog’s lead (or all three—no judgment). Also has Vegan and GF options.
Loaded Fries
Loaded fries with the choice of slow bbq brisket and Mexican shredded chicken and the classic cheesy fries.
A Taste of The Isle
Authentic Greek Cypriot style food including Gyros, Baklava.
Up in Smoke (Ingrams Yard)
Smoked meat catering service, using island based produce to create mouth watering dishes including hot dogs, pulled pork, brisket burger, as well as meat free options – mac and cheese and a spicy bean bowl plus lots of sides.
Craft Beer & Cocktails
Ingrams Yard
Dudley Road, PO38 1EZ
Bristol’s famous Wiper & True are back to bring the fi nest craft beer in the South West to our bars this year, along with local ales on tap.
In addition to Ventnor Exchange, where there is always an epic selection of craft and Belgian beer, as well as a tasty cocktail menu, we have a number of additional festival bars.
Parkside Bar
Ventnor Park, Park Avenue, PO38 1LE
Located right in the centre of the Fringe Village at Ventnor Park, this is a great place to soak up the atmosphere. Free live music every day, with open air concerts on the Bandstand during the afternoon and live Jazz under cover every evening.
Open 12:00–23:30
The Flowersbrook Inn Flowersbrook, PO38 1LF
Right in the heart of town, with a sheltered courtyard that provides a social hub with cocktails and special craft beer selection from our mobile bar the Pour Pony.
Bar Open 12:00–23:00
Ventnor Exchange
11 Church Street, PO38 1SW
Alongside being the main box offi ce the Exchange’s bar and record store will be open. Pop by for a coffee or a beer!
Open 12:00–23:00
With stunning views out to sea, this bar sits right on the coastal path, the perfect pit stop between Ventnor Esplanade and the beautiful Steephill Cove. Grab a drink here before shows at Rotunda or The Arena.
Open 12:00–23:00
00:00 (weekends)
Sometimes the best things in life are free and alongside the main programme of ticketed events, there is a huge amount of free things to see and do at Ventnor Fringe. Here is just a selection of what’s on offer…
The Fringe Village
There are performances every afternoon at The Bandstand for all to enjoy. Catch a variety of music and performances here 12:00–18:00.
Free Jazz Shows
Free jazz concerts from The Roaming Melodies every evening from 19:00hrs -21:00hrs in the Fringe Village. From the Parisian wine bars of the 30s to some old time string tunes, soak up the sounds of a time gone by. A varied line up of musicians each day curated by Sol Grimshaw.
Free Outdoor Shows
Don’t miss these amazing outdoor circus and theatre shows in the Fringe Village
The Fringe Square
There will be music, poetry and storytelling here check our website for listings.
The Book Bus
Ventnor Artists Collective
VISUAL ARTS
Ventnor Artists Collective Summer Exhibition
We are a group of local artists who work in a variety of media and styles. The group meet regularly to share ideas and run workshops. Displayed and for sale are paintings, linocut prints, sculptures, decorative hangings, photography, ceramics and cards. Something for everyone so come and visit us at the Ventnor High Street Gallery“44”
Mischa Ying returns to co-curate another wild Caulabyrinth exploration. Prepare your soul for free abandon, as a hand-picked selection of artists offer their creative insights whilst avoiding being sucked into the immersive portal that has appeared in the mouldy basement. Praise be to those who buy tickets. Also, look out for pop up shows from Ventnor Choir and Luke The Hater – Keep an eye on socials to find out more @peer_studios
WHEN: Fri 18 th–Sat 26 th July 10:00–16:00 (15 min sessions) TICKETS: £4
WHERE: Peer Studios, Pier Street
20
– Walk of the Dandelion Puppet Show by Luke Brown Co: 10.30, 13:00 & 15.15
Sun 20 th –Thu 24th – Chris the Juggler: 12:00 & 15.15
Tue 22 nd –Fri 25th – Protocole Circus Show by Sur Mesure: 13:00 Fri 25th –Sun 27th - The Juggling Gent: 12:00 Sat 26th - Le Patineurs (the Skaters) Circus Show by 15Feet6: 13:00
Located in the Fringe Square in front of St.Catherine’s Church is the Book Bus. A beautiful 1930’s Parisian bus transformed into the perfect bookshop. In The Fringe Square there is also a Book Market featuring stalls from Medina Bookshop and other independent booksellers. There will also be children’s storytelling at 11am on both Saturdays of the festival.
Open Wed 24th–Sat 26th July 10:00–17:00
Busking and Street Acts
Busking brings the festival to the streets, and throughout the week you’ll spot all sorts of bands and artists performing around the town. The best places to head to are the Rene Stage (half way down The Cascade) , Spring Hill Garden (opposite Tesco), outside The Ventnor Heritage Centre and The Book Bus as well as outside Co-op –artists are taking over the town!
Suzanne Arnold
Coming Home: an art installation
Four Ventnor families remembered in word, image and mixed media. Join me on a trip down St Albans Steps for a fusion of old Ventnor photographs interspersed with stories, poetry, incident wall, genealogy … and adventures in corrugated cardboard! Also featuring pages from a RNH autograph book and D-Day80 collage. Be inspired to research your own family story –includes crayoning opportunity for all ages!
Gianpaolo will have his studio open displaying his stunning images of the Isle of Wight, especially the local area of Ventnor and Steephill Cove and British landscapes from across the country.Find the perfect print for your home or office. You can chat all things photography. Even book a days tuition or a family photo shoot to make your summer holiday memories extra special and last forever...
Using the nostalgic aesthetic of 80’s video games, ARCADE’s interactive narrative explores the evolving relationship between players and avatars. Over 30 minutes in a completely dark shipping container, this choose-your-own-path experience will fully immerse the players using 360 degree binaural sound, sensory effects and a bespoke DARKFIELD ARCADE machine for each player. Each interaction lasts 30 mins.
WHEN: Fri 18 th–Sun 27 th July (Except Mon) Various times from 13:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: The Container at Ingram’s Yard
Gorilla Circus
Gorilla Circus: RPM
A mesmeric new show combining exhilarating acrobatics, adrenaline-pumping street dance and breath-taking roller skating, set on a giant moving treadmill! RPM explores the tragic, comic and absurd aspects of modern society, unravelling untold links between current problems and the UK’s troubled history. Gorilla Circus is a contemporary circus company specialising in imaginative, high-octane works with strong narratives surrounding global issues.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 13:00–14:00 TICKETS: £15 £13 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
Vix Lowthion
A Deep Dive into Nostalgia
Space hoppers, Pop Tarts, garden bonfires, Spice Girls… 50s-90s nostalgia has become a powerful force with even today’s teenagers harking back to a simpler time that they never even lived through. Explore the sights, sounds, tastes and smells which bring back all our happy memories and share what made them special. Why is the past such a potent force – for consumers and in politics? Will vintage items and retro beliefs ever make our country Great Again?
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 13:45–14:45 TICKETS: £9 £5 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Ali Williams
Careless Talk
Set on the Isle of Wight: a true story of high treason, espionage, spam fritters. The only British person to be tried for treason in the Second World War: Was Mabel a collaborator? A visionary? Or just an outsider? Was she the victim of a witch hunt? Or the victim of her own uncompromising nature? Join Mabel on Sandown Beach with her secateurs, sequinned tassels and heartfelt - if misguided - self-belief. Solo show comedy drama.
WHEN: Fri 18 th, Sat 19 th & Sun 20 th July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Impromptu Shakespeare
Impromptu Shakespeare
TICKETS: £11.50 | £8 u25
Riddlestick Theatre
Barleycorn
PERFORMING ARTS
It’s been raining all summer. The village pub’s closing down. And a wild storm threatens to scupper the annual harvest show. Some say it’s just typical British weather, but others say it’s something more sinister... Can this drenched and disenchanted community band together to overcome whatever lurks outside? Riddlestick Theatre present a new musical comedy telling tales of folk intrigue, ‘wyrd’ happenings and inebriated villagers.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 17:30–18:45 TICKETS: £13.50 | £11.50 u25
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Head Over Wheels
Anchored in Air
Anchored In Air is a groundbreaking aerial theatre show brought to you by Head Over Wheels, a disabled led aerial company. Blending circus, dance, text and live music, audiences will be taken into the world of flying wheelchairs, integrated audio description, gravity-defying acrobatics, and the captivating challenge of navigating a colossal tower. Brought to you in collaboration with Crying Out Loud.
WHEN: Sat 19 th July 12:00–12:35 & 15:15–15:50 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: The Putting Green, Ventnor Park
Angus Baskerville Magic Hidden Powers
For Ventnor 2025, Angus Baskerville is back with his all-new show – Hidden Powers, a fascinating, continuing exploration of the connection between the power of the mind –certainly of Angus’ mind – as well as his own, very personal, story of growing up with (Angus’ words) “neurodivergent superpowers”. Informative & entertaining; poignant but funny; you will never leave a Baskerville show without having had both your mind blown.
WHEN: Sat 19 th & Sun 20 th July | 14:00–15:00 TICKETS: £15 £11 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Curtain Call creative
Six:Teen Edition The Musical
SIX made its world premiere at Edinburgh Fringe in 2017, presented by Cambridge University Musical Theatre Society. Curtain Call Creative are bringing this incredible musical to the Ventnor Fringe for the first time. Featuring brand new designed costumes and a live band. “The most uplifting new British musical I have ever had the privilege to watch.” – Evening Standard
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 13:00–14:10 TICKETS: £20 | £17 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
Hold onto your doublets, ruffs and trunk hose. The Bard is back! With story and verse improvised in the moment, enjoy a riotous new Shakespeare play every time – performed by Impromptu Shakespeare’s whip smart cast.Packed with priceless wit, lyrical smarts, romance, and a dash of double-crossing, this leading ensemble do the Bard proud with a brand new hit every time, inspired by audience suggestions. WINNER: Best Comedy Event, Buxton Fringe 2021
WHEN: Fri 18 th, Sat 19 th & Sun 20 th July | 17:00–18:00 TICKETS: £16.50 | £13.50 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Horse Box Theatre
Ubu: King of the Isle of Wight
Prepare for theatrical mayhem as Horse Box Theatre unleashes a riotous, Isle of Wightinspired take on Alfred Jarry’s anarchic Ubu Roi. This no-holds-barred parody of Macbeth cranks ambition and absurdity to the max, hurling the grotesque Mr & Mrs Ubu into a storm of corruption, carnage, and clumsy coups. Expect belly laughs, biting satire, and sheer madness in a wild new show that’s as timely as it is ridiculous.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 21:30–22:45
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
|
PERFORMING ARTS
Flower and Doe Theatre Company
Mother Bird: Learning to Fly
Expect laughter, a song and dance and touching sincerity about parenthood. A must see for anyone thinking of having a baby. Flower and Doe Theatre make fun and interactive performances.
The Receptionists is a physical comedy show about customer service by two Finnish female clowns. The two receptionists are fast-talking smooth moving professionals in the hospitality industry. They speak multiple languages, none of which you can understand, and have a pathological fear of their customers. Impressively silly and exceptionally charismatic, Inga and Kristiina have a unique and hilarious chemistry which makes the whole experience delightfully bonkers.
The Arts Society IOW & Newchurch Drama Sherlock Holmes’ Last Case: a Spoof
Elementary My Dear Watson! You may think you know Sherlock well, but not this one. Book now to enjoy a light-hearted gamble through a treacherous plot. What is Watson up to? What has happened to serious Inspector Lestrade? Who is loose lips and what is the orb d’or and the Kalimari? Is Lady Michelle really a man and what does Mrs Hudson do on her day off? Come and join us for a comedic conversion of customary characters. And of course, guess who done it.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd–Wed 23 rd, Sat 26 th–Sun 27 th July | 15:30–16:30 & 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £11.50
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Fishing4Chips
It’s Gonna Blow!
Pompeii. 79 AD. Volcano Day. Join your fellow citizens as Pompeii’s final public forum descends into disarray. As ancient arguments are aired, a dark cloud looms over the city. A literal dark cloud made of ash, fire and rock. Soon, it’s too destructive to ignore - or so you’d think. Will you believe the dismissive elite? Or can you escape the impending doom? After two sell-out Edinburgh Fringe runs, come and experience Fishing4Chips’ brand new immersive comedy.
Ventnor Exchange in collaboration with Max Calaf, Sur Mesure and 15feet6 Circus Trail
Explore Ventnor’s famous Botanic Garden after hours as an international cast of acrobats and performers transform the tropical gardens in this unique promenade performance. Created especially for Ventnor Fringe, audiences will be led on a trail to discover a series of spectacular shows hidden throughout the grounds. The perfect adventure for adults and children of all ages that promises to be a real festival highlight.
Mama mia! Here we go again! This year “Mellow Drama” at the Ventnor Fringe festival proudly presents a musical entitled “I don’t Adam and Eve it!” It’s 1995 and five fellas from a 1970s church youth fellowship are now in their mid thirties reminiscing and pondering their current situation. Difficult to believe? You are not alone! Just don’t look too closely! Some of these characters appear to have aged almost overnight!
Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your ‘finger of suspicion’ at the ready because Edinburgh Fringe favourites, Degrees of Error, are bringing their multiple sellout show. They’ll create a classic murder mystery on-the-spot in this ingenious improvised comedy. At each show this extraordinarily talented company uses audience suggestions to create a unique, original and extremely comical murder mystery just for you.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd–Thu 24 th July 19:00–21:00 TICKETS: £20
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
OperaUpClose
OperaCocktail
A delicious cocktail of classics by Puccini, Mozart, Verdi and more, in sparkling English translations with a contemporary twist, performed by the UK’s brightest and best. A summer’s day. A picnic. And a story of five friends trying to make sense of life and love. Is it finally time to grow up? Told through brilliantly evocative music including the famous Habanera from Carmen and Verdi’s timeless Drinking Song from La Traviata.
On 24th March 1878, HMS Eurydice sank off the Isle of Wight—yet sightings of the ghost ship persist to this day. Blending magic, history, and mystery, this unique show weaves an eyewitness account with illusion and intrigue. Part lecture, part performance, it’s designed to entertain, inform, and leave you questioning whether seeing really is believing. Join us for an unforgettable journey into one of Britain’s most haunting maritime legends.
Vicious Vectis is an irreverent, energetic romp through the Island’s past, in the cheeky spirit of Horrible Histories. Meet monarchs, fossil-hunting vicars, time-travelling teens, and secret societies—all brought hilariously to life by The Carisbrooke Cast, our Youth Lead Performing Arts Group. Written, directed and performed entirely by young people, it’s smart, silly, and gloriously local. History has never been this much fun!
The Dancing Princess is a heart-warming and magical adventure about Princess Primrose, whose enchanting dance brings light and joy to her kingdom. But when a jealous and wicked witch locks her away in a lonely tower, darkness falls over the land. With humour, heart, and plenty of toe-tapping moments, The Dancing Princess is a tale of courage, friendship, and the unstoppable power of dance.
Join Northern Rascals for a socially urgent work that follows the pain and loneliness on the path from adolescence to adulthood. K is struggling. At 18, he’s living in a world where everyone is rushing full steam ahead but himself. Where do young men stand in a world that seems to have no place for them? Combining contemporary dance, theatre and spoken word, SUNNY SIDE is a raw portrayal of modern masculinity, involving voices of 750+ young people.
WHEN: Fri 25 th–Sun 27 th July | 13:00–14:30
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
Contemporary Ritual Theatre
SALT
TICKETS: £18
From Norfolk’s Contemporary Ritual Theatre comes the critically acclaimed folk tragedy SALT, a visceral and immersive tale of ancient fisherfolk. Man Billy, a pious young fisherman, lives with his domineering mother. When he meets a singer with supernatural gifts, his mother, believing him bewitched, will do anything to break the spell. Filled with sea shanties, dances and folk songs, SALT is a mesmerising tale of faith, jealousy and demonic passion.
WHEN: Fri 25 th & Sat 26 th July | 17:00–18:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Daniel Sinclair
The Mind Reader Live
TICKETS: £15 £10 u25
A mind reading and mentalism show that will leave you on the edge of your seats. Expect West End quality entertainment, Derren Brown-style mind games and all-round psychological wonder as Daniel reads volunteers’ minds and makes astonishing predictions live on stage.
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Ian Vallance Mathemagical
TICKETS: £15 £12 u25
Quantum Theatre Alice Through the Looking Glass
When Alice enters Looking Glass World through the mirror in her drawing-room, she suddenly finds herself in a giant game of chess being played out across the whole country. Starting as a pawn she sets out to cross the board, encountering a myriad of weird and wonderful characters on the way, but will she ever make it to the final square and become a Queen? Join Alice, on her madcap adventures in this delightful new adaptation of this family favourite.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 14:30–16:00
WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden
Tide Nor Time Players
The Three Sisters
The Three Sisters is a brand new, all-original adventure inspired by an ancient Isle of Wight legend. Three elemental spirits—Maiden, Mother, and Crone—guard the Island’s rivers, but when a monstrous Wyrm threatens the land, they must join forces with the noble King Hengist and his magical pony to fight back. Packed with myth, music, magic, and fun, this thrilling tale is perfect for all ages—an enchanting celebration of courage, friendship, and the Island’s timeless magic.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £8.50 £6 u25
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Quantum Theatre
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Shakespeare’s classic comedy of love and intrigue, magic and mayhem, is brought to life by family favourites Quantum Theatre in their wonderfully funny and exuberant production of the Shakespeare classic. Join Quantum Theatre for a spellbinding evening of fairy fun and frolics in the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Magic!
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 18:30–20:00 TICKETS: £17.50 | £13.50
WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden
Think maths is boring? Think again! Mathemagical is a mind-bending mix of magic and mathematics, exploring the secrets behind baffling tricks and the hidden beauty of numbers. Perfect for those who loved maths at school—and even better for those who didn’t—this fun, fast-paced show reveals how maths can amaze, surprise, and even deceive. Packed with puzzles, illusions, Mathemagical will change the way you see the world… one equation at a time.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 13:45–14:45 TICKETS: £9
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Echo Me Sound Therapy
Gong in 60 Minutes!
Immerse yourself in a chilled, meditative Soundscape at my new-for-Fringe series of Gong Baths. Each Gong Bath session will be a unique, captivating & nourishing Sound Hug. Slow down, connect, and let the Sound Waves wash over you. Bring your mat, blankets, & pillows for ultimate comfort. Unsuitable for those with seizures, pacemakers, unmanaged mental health issues or who are pregnant. Please see my website for a full list of contraindications.
Tatty Devine Tatty Devine Circus Bunting Necklace Workshop
Learn how to make a unique acrylic necklace at Tatty Devine’s Circus Bunting Necklace Workshop. Guided by Co-founder, Rosie Wolfenden MBE, hand-link five scalloped flags onto a gold or silver-plated chain. Swirling in pearlescent red and white, this jewellery design is inspired by big tops and all the fun of the fair.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 12:00–13:00 & 13:30–14:30 TICKETS: £45
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange
Caulkhead Productions
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Luke Brown Company
Walk of the Dandelion
Meet Daniel, an 8ft, ethereal puppet who gently roams, sharing moments of joy and quiet reflection. Daniel, a symbol of resilience and hope, will be gifting dandelions, each with a message of positivity, offering heartfelt encounters and a magical experience for all ages. Become part of the performance by joining the crafting workshop and learning to make the simple woollen dandelions that Daniel gifts to others. Brought to you in collaboration with Crying Out Loud.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 10:30–11:15, 13:00–13:45 & 15:15–16:00 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: The Putting Green, Ventnor Park
Pirates Prov
Pirates’ Prov – Quick, across the Solent!
For this year’s show the vile crew of Pirates Prov will be taking local legends of smuggling and ne’er-do-well as inspiration for an all new fully improvised piratical adventure. Booty hunting, swashbuckling and inter-personal matelotering as inspired by you and IOW nefarians of ages past. You’d be a scurvy ridden toothless scallywag to miss out!
WHEN: Sat 19 th & Sun 20 th July | 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £9 £6 u25
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Fly your colours proud.Two artists with a rich background in street theatre, music and circus have travelled from Belgium to Ventnor and invite you to join their brand-new traditional flag raising ceremony. With honour, humour and dedication, witness the careful performance of an entrancing ritual with this incredible outdoor circus act!
Adapted from Quentin Blake’s classic tale,Mrs Armitage on Wheels, Scoot Theatre presents a 40-minute interactive, energetic show, celebrating the joy of getting outdoors and being active. Scoot Theatre’s adaptation is a fun, family show suitable for aged 3+ featuring live music, puppetry and physical comedy, Mrs Armitage on Wheels celebrates the power of imagination, the importance of resilience and the joy of embracing the great outdoors.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 11:00–11:40 & 14:00–14:40 TICKETS: £12 £10.50 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Marcel Lucont
Les Enfants Terribles – A Gameshow For Awful Children
Winner: Best Kids Show - UK Kids Comedy Festival. Top 10 Kids Shows – Edinburgh Fringe / Time Out / The Scotsman / Broadway World. The deadpan French comedian presents his wild family gameshow, in which kids get to be pests, politicians and pétomanes to be crowned the most awful child. See what happens when international insouciance meets infantile exuberance.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 11:00–12:00 TICKETS: £12.50 | £10.50 u25
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Sue Bailey / But That’s Another Story
Where’s Jack? A story telling trail to find Jack
“Where’s Jack?” A story walk following clues to find Sue-the -storyteller’s Jack-in-a-box. This will be a circular walk starting at Ventnor Park with some walking and plenty of stops to hear tales about Jacks who chop down beanstalks, build houses, eat no fat, or just sit in the corners. But why should Jack have all the fun? Let’s make up a tale together, for Jill. Suitable for ages 3-10. PLEASE NOTE Children need a ticket but accompanying adults are free.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 11:30–12:30 TICKETS: £8
WHERE: Family Fringe, Ventnor Park
15feet6
Les Patineurs – The Skaters
Les Patineurs duke it out in the rink! With the help of the public they bring a spectacular battle on roller skates. Tunes by Émile Waldteufel! A 20 minute outdoor spectacle by renowned Belgian circus company 15Feet6.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 13:00–13:20 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: The Putting Green, Ventnor Park
SESKA SESKA : SUPERSILLYMAGICSHOW
Crazier than finding a penguin in your fridge, turbo-charged Seska throws buckets of happiness into the air in this brilliantly inventive super silly magic show. Winner SPIRIT OF FRINGE - Colchester Fringe Festival. Winner BEST SOLO SHOW - Banjul Arts Festival. ‘One of the world’s top comedy magicians’ – BBC Radio ‘Quite simply one of the best comedy magicians entertaining families in the UK’ – London Evening Standard. GET TICKETS QUICK!
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 14:00–14:45 TICKETS: £9
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
The Island Storytellers
Seaside Tales
Seaside Tales is a highly interactive storytelling session from The Island Storytellers. Great for anyone aged 3-103. There will be stories, songs, riddles and rhymes. Come and join the fun.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £6 £4 u25
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
Quantum Theatre
The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck
Quantum Theatre’s delightful adaptation of The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck is back this summer. Prevented from hatching her eggs at the farm, foolish Jemima goes in search of a nesting place in the forest and soon she meets a charming ‘sandy-whiskered gentleman’ who offers her the perfect nesting place in his wood-shed. Follow Jemima on her featherbrained adventures in this delightful new adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s family favourite.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 14:30–16:00 TICKETS: £16.50 £13.50 u25 | £11.50 child | £45 Family
WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden
Sur Mesure Protocole
Following huge demand, Family Fringe is back! Curated this year by our friends at New Carnival, who have been delivering vibrant, exciting and innovative creative projects for over a decade.
Family Fringe is located at the Putting Green (Ventnor Park) over both weekends of the festival from 10:00–15:00 each day. It’s specially curated for families looking for something fun for children, especially those aged 5-12, with everything from games to graffiti, carnival crafts to a sensory corner for some time out.
Activities available include:
Games – Hula hoops, big games, Graffiti wall
Sensory Corner
Crafting station
Dress Up Box
Face Painting & Glitter tattoos
Circus Skills Dance
Carnival costume making and parade!
Check out all the workshops to take part in at vfringe.co.uk
Entry to the Family Fringe is £8 (inc booking fee) per day per child – adults go free.
There are also some spectacular FREE outdoor circus, magic and puppet shows in the park on both weekends, as well as live music on the Bandstand making for a packed, full day out.
Please note there’s limited capacity for some sessions so will operate on a first come first served basis.
Queenie Miller Live
ROHAN SHARMA: Mad Dog (Work in Progress)
Rohan Sharma is a British/Indian comedian who is/isn’t bringing his debut hour about his harrowing /comfortable upbringing to Edinburgh this year. He will talk about how he’s faced racism/no racism and will criticise/champion Britain and its checkered/flawless history, all from the perspective of a man whose brain has been corroded/nourished by modern society. The reigning Leicester Square New Comedian champion presents his hotly-anticipated debut, a fast-paced, multimedia odyssey.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 16:00–17:00 TICKETS: £13.50 | £11 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
IAM
Thor Stenhaug (Work in Progress)
Norwegian comedian Thor Stenhaug is working on his debut hour. In a short period of time, he has headlined top comedy clubs across the country, built an online following and been shortlisted for British Comedy of the Year – despite not being British (wonder what happened there).
WHEN: Fri 18 th July | 17:00–18:00 TICKETS: £12 |
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Jack & Zoe Comedy
Dog Funeral (Work in Progress)
Take the “fun” out of “funeral” and throw the rest away!Zoe Wohlfeld, renowned professional mourner, showcases her talents with the saddest funeral she can imagine: Dog Funeral. Sadness is Zoe’s passion, and Dog was Zoe’s best friend, so join this solemn ceremony and let Zoe show you how to pay respects with the big boys. May they rest in peace.
Join bawdy bard Steve Taverner and opinionated newspaper columnist Cat James, as they explore the issues which perplex, enrage and entertain us. With their opposing writing styles, can these two established social commentators find some common ground? You might come for the laughs, but they’ll also inspire you to think. Contains references to nether regions.
WHEN: Fri 18 th July | 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £7
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
BIGHEAD Comedy Ozzy Algar: Speed Queen
We are in the Speed Queen, the last Launderette on the Isle of Wight! In here, Pet the ancient washerwoman divines the fates of her customers through their dirty laundry, and a story unfolds of an island ill-at-ease. A pitch black comedy that weaves the Isle of Wight’s untold myths and hidden histories with folk horror, original music and razor-sharp characters. Original Music composed by Tom Penn, Lyrics by Ozzy Algar. Directed by Tanika Lay-Meachen.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £8 | £6 u25
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
COMEDY & CABARET COMEDY & CABARET
Drunk Women Solving Crime
Drunk Women Solving Crime
After sell-out shows at Vfringe in 2023 & 2024, Drunk Women Solving Crime are back – for two nights! Drunk Women Solving Crime is one of the UK’s top podcasts, with millions of downloads and sell-out Edinburgh Festival runs. Each episode sees the boozed-up panel of writer/comedian hosts Taylor Glenn and Ventnor girl Hannah George, welcome a top guest to test out their drunk detective skills and solve a true crime case! Every show is different, so book for both nights!
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £16.50 | £13.50 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Will Davies
Will Davies: Much Peril, Many Intrigue
We live in a dangerous world. Disaster lies in wait around every corner and every shadow hides an insidious plot. It’s a bad time out there. Come in here, have a good time instead.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 19:45–20:45 TICKETS: £11.50 | £9 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Jack & Zoe Comedy
A Night of Drama
A Night of Drama isn’t just a comedy—it’s a rebellion. Watch a prolific Director (Jack Grossman) live-direct guest comedians in a dramatic play. We invite audiences to shed their politeness in favour of visceral reactions— including the throwing of banana peels*. A Night of Drama is improvised clown madness. Toss a banana peel, join in a chant, or boo just because you feel like it.*peels provided
"A Must-See for All D&D Fans" ***** - A Young(ish) Perspective. Answer the call and become a hero in a madcap improvised adventure, as a troupe of professional actors brings the world of Dungeons & Dragons to life! But there's a twist—one lucky audience member will be chosen to step into the story. Direct from Off-West End, It's Your Role is a hilarious night of comedy and fantasy - where the audience shapes the story.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 21:00–22:30
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Ebdon Management
TICKETS: £15 £11.50 u25
Jessica Fostekew: Iconic Breath (Work in Progress)
The earliest beginnings of a brand new show all about the absolute best best best best best best best best best best possible breath. From Jessica Fostekew who you know from BBCs QI or Live at the Apollo, her two BBC R4 series of ‘Sturdy Girl Club’, The Guilty Feminist, the Hoovering Podcast, Travelman on C4, World’s Most Dangerous Roads on Dave, Celebrity University Challenge where she intellectually soiled herself on prime time viewing this Christmas.
WHEN: Fri 18 th July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
IW School of Comedy Isle of Wight School of Comedy Showcase
The Isle of Wight School of Comedy invites you to come and support some of the best up and coming comedians on the Island! Hosted by the award-winning Baron Fortitude, as seen on ITV, Chanel 5.
WHEN: Fri 18th July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Sophie Chapman Talent
Geoff Norcott: Basic Bloke 2
TICKETS: £7 | £6 u25
New national Tour 2025-2026 for star of Have I Got News For You, The Last Leg, Would I Lie to You?, Live At The Apollo, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Backstage With Katherine Ryan, The Mash Report, The News Quiz, Geoff Norcott’s Working Men’s Club and many more! ‘The laughs roll in like waves’ Evening Standard
WHEN: Sat 19 th July 16:00–17:00 TICKETS: £16.50 | £14 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
Ebdon Management Crizards (Work in Progress)
Comedy duo Crizards (Will Rowland & Eddy Hare) are back with the beginnings of another absurd, quick-witted, and delightfully silly show. After two critically-acclaimed runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, this is the start of another fast-paced hour packed with razor-sharp jokes, surreal storytelling, and the signature deadpan charm that has made them one of the most exciting acts on the circuit. As seen on BBC One and Dave. **** “Classic double act” The Guardian
WHEN: Sat 19 th July 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Impatient Productions
Derek Mitchell: Double Dutch
TICKETS: £12
Debut hour of stand-up and characters from the ‘out-and-out hilarious’ (Stage) Derek Mitchell (Ted Lasso), whose online sketches have generated over half a billion views and a dedicated following. Right off the back of a 44-date European tour and a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe 2024 run, the show is about the journey from being an outsider to a sort-of insider, and making sense of all the cultural nonsense and confusion in between.
WHEN: Sat 19 th July 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
TICKETS: £15.50 | £13.50 u25
TICKETS: £14.50 | £10.50 u25
Avalon
Simon Brodkin (Work in Progress)
Star of the Royal Variety Performance, world-famous prankster and the most watched British stand-up comedian on social media, warms up for his next world tour. Be the first to laugh at his brand-new jokes and witness the death of others that won’t make the tour.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 16:00-17:00
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
TICKETS: £18
COMEDY & CABARET COMEDY & CABARET
Impatient Productions
Sam Nicoresti: Baby Doomer
A glistening new stand-up show about losing your mind, finding it again and the hunt for the perfect skirt suit. During a stressful house move, burgeoning trans icon Sam Nicoresti felt themselves leave their body. From a comedy night in a care home to the standing stones of Cornwall, this is the story of the journey home. Baby Doomer is the follow-up to the acclaimed “Wokeflake”. “A must for lovers of comedy that is daft but also deft.” Evening Standard
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Avalon
Ania Magliano (Work in Progress)
TICKETS: £11.50 | £10 u25
Avalon
Eleanor Tiernan (Work in Progress)
Comedian and writer Eleanor Tiernan has featured on Stand Up For Live Comedy (BBC3), Comedy Central’s The Alternative Comedy Experience and she has supported acts including Iliza Shlesinger, Stewart Lee, Tig Notaro, Ardal O’Hanlon, Jason Manford, Jason Byrne and Reginald D. Hunter. She has been a panellist on BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz and Where’s the F In News? Eleanor’s style is “deceptively sharp” (Fest Mag) and filled with her trademark acerbic wit.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Ania Magliano (Live At The Apollo, Edinburgh Fringe Comedy Awards Best Show nominee 2023) has some new thoughts/jokes/confessions/gossip to share with you before you’ve even had your lunch. Ania has opened for Ed Gamble, Marc Maron and Catherine Cohen, and writes for Amelia Dimoldenberg. Her choices on Off Menu are widely regarded as one of the worst menus of all time. ‘Will have you crying with laughter’ **** Guardian
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Laugh Now Think Later
Laugh Now Think Later
TICKETS: £13.50 | £10.50 u25
Avalon
Glenn Moore (Work in Progress)
Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Glenn Moore is a comedian, actor and one of the best and most prolific joke writers in the country. Join him as he works up a new show.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £15
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Laugh Now, Think Later! Joe Fortis, Tim Sque, and Jack Clay deliver sharp one-liners and witty observations. Don’t miss the laughs!
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 18:00–19:00
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Ebdon Management
Will Rowland (Work in Progress)
TICKETS: £9 £8 u25
PBJ Management
Will Owen: Britain's Next Gay Person
Why has Will Owen never had a serious relationship? In this new stand-up hour, he is going to avoid that question. Please never ask him that again. Following his five-star debut, Will Owen presents a brand new hour of stand-up. Themes include gay. As featured on British Comedy Guide’s Best Reviewed Shows 2024. Winner of the Leicester Square New Comedian. Tour Support for Rhys Nicholson and Ania Magliano.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 21:00–22:00 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
The New Comedian of the Year finalist and co-creator of Crizards **** (Guardian) uncurls from his sleeping spot in the airing cupboard to ponder life's most pressing issues: the decline of civilisation, the degradation of the natural world, and the dwindling acceptance of invitations to his birthday barbeques. Praise for Crizards: **** (Telegraph).
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Le Gateau Chocolat
Le Gateau Chocolat: Musicals Mayhem
Imagine a Music Box, a Chocolate Box, a Juke Box, and a Dress-Up Box all collide and burst into life… Their name would be Le Gateau Chocolat! Your favourite Black, bearded, and bass singing drag icon is back, returning to Ventnor Fringe for one enchanted evening of Musical Theatre madness. Serving Do-Re-Mi with Hi-La-Ri-Tea. ’Stomp-along Drag Fun’ - The Guardian
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
TICKETS: £22
Mirth of Forth Productions
Richard Pulsford: Yorkshire Dad, Immigrant Mum
Multi-award-winning stand-up comedian Richard Pulsford takes a nostalgic no holds barred tour into his parents’ past to try to understand how it made them who they were, and therefore the person who he is. With a dad from Yorkshire and a ‘foreign’ mum maybe it shouldn’t be a surprise that Richard ended up being, well, ‘funny’. Richard won Leicester Comedy Festival’s UK Pun Championships in 2022, has had Top Ten Jokes of the Edinburgh Fringe three times.
Being loud, brazen and a little bit lairy was all Matt needed to propel himself onto the comedy circuit aged 18 and be presenting national telly by 22. But he suddenly finds himself in his 30s, settled down in the countryside, and trying his hardest to not make rude jokes. It’s not going as well as he’d hoped… As seen on Dancing on Ice, The Stand Up Sketch Show, Love Island: Aftersun, Comedy Central’s Roast Battle and many more.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd July | 17:00–18:00 TICKETS: £11.50
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
COMEDY & CABARET COMEDY & CABARET
Avalon Rob Auton: CAN (An Hour-Long Story) Work In Progress
Multi award-winning writer, performer and actor Rob Auton brings his debut story to Ventnor Fringe. Having written 11 critically acclaimed shows on specific themes, Rob Auton is now keen on telling you a story he has written about a man he made up called CAN. At one point in his life CAN was the world’s number one motivational speaker... and then something happened. ‘A genuine original’ (Guardian). ‘You will walk out feeling transformed. And fully alive’ (Scotsman).
WHEN: Tue 22 nd July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Adele Cliff
Adele, Adele, Adele... Cliff It Isn’t The Consequences
TICKETS: £13.50
Of My Own Actions
Adele uses her gag heavy style and penchant for silliness to tackle the topic of lying and why we do it (or does she?) ***** “truly funny, transcending cultural norms to be universally accessible.” The Lonely Archaeologist, Adelaide Fringe. ***** “guaranteed laughs” The Student Newspaper “A consummate jokesmith” British Comedy Guide. “a sophisticated and intelligent comic with oodles of talent” Fringe Review. “Absolutely charming” The Scotsman.
Join BBC New Comedy Awards finalist Molly McGuinness for her highly anticipated debut show about what it means to be a slob. To Molly, life didn’t get any better than a good buffet and belting out Meatloaf down the pub karaoke. But when the Salford-born libertine was unexpectedly laid out by a life-threatening illness, Molly was forced to slob out whether she liked it or not… As seen on Comedy Central Live and heard on BBC Radio 4.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Mirth of Forth Productions
TICKETS: £12
Richard Pulsford: The Short Joke Teller Returns
One-liners and quality light-hearted jokes from the UK Pun Championships winner 2022 and Scottish Comedian of the Year runner-up 2021. Nominated best stand-up at Buxton Fringe 2023. Top Ten Jokes Edinburgh Fringe 2019, 2021 & 2023. As seen on Channel 4's Steph's Packed Lunch. ‘Quite literally, just an hour of puns and one-liners… a breath of fresh air from some of the darker Fringe comedy shows’ (Broadway World, 2024)
WHEN: Tue 22 nd & Wed 23 rd July 19:45–20:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Jo Larcombe Vibrate
TICKETS: £11.50
Lucy Pearman
Lucy Pearman: Lunartic (Work in Progress)
The Moon dreams of stardom so she’s popped down to perform her new show. Lucy Pearman (BAFTA and Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee) joins The Ventnor Fringe with optimistic and interactive lunacy. Leicester Comedy Festival Best Variety Show nominee 2025. ‘Lucy Pearman is the Edinburgh Fringe at its absolute best’ ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). One of the daftest and most delightful comedians on the Fringe... a star in the making’ **** (Telegraph).
Joe Kent Walters AKA Frankie Monroe (Work in Progress)
See the latest Work In Progress from Edinburgh Best Newcomer JOE KENT-WALTERS, the mind that brought the world Frankie Monroe! Joe has been delighting audiences up and down the country with his idiosyncratic style of outrageous character comedy, winning him BBC New Comedy Award, Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show, and the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer!
WHEN: Tue 22 nd July | 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £15
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Ceyla AB
Ceyla AB (Work in Progress)
Following multiple sell-out runs and a UK tour, Celya AB (Live At The Apollo, Off Menu, Melbourne Comedy Festival, Just For Laughs) is working on her brand new show. ‘One of the most gifted joke writers of our age’ **** (Chortle.co.uk). ‘She has claimed her crown and her mastery over the stand up art form’ ***** (PepperAndSalt.uk). ‘Her quips are slick, her one-liners razor sharp, and her caustic wit and pithy anecdotes dazzle the mind’ **** (Entertainment-Now.com).
WHEN: Wed 23 rd July | 17:00–18:00 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
United Agents
Lily Phillips: Crying (Work in Progress)
‘Fresh’ from hatching a baby girl and a sold out Edinburgh run, Lily, as seen on ITV, BBC, Comedy Central and E4, is back with a new hour of comedy and she’s FINE. She may have lost her sleep, her social life and her perineum, but she’s nailing it, everything is great, she’s one of those cool mums who takes it all in their stride. If you understand sarcasm, this show is for you. “Perfectly judged” **** Chortle
WHEN: Wed 23 rd July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Everything you didn’t realise there was to know about vibrators, their history, and development; told through story and song.
Star of Live at the Apollo, The Last Leg, The Russell Howard Hour and more! Two-time Edinburgh Comedy Award Nominee Janine Harouni returns with a new hour on family, parenting and marriage. Over 100 million views online. ‘Ready for her Netflix special’ ***** The Times. ‘A marvel’ **** The Guardian. ‘A comedian clearly destined for bigger stages’ **** - Sunday Post. **** Evening Standard. **** Scotsman. **** Chortle. **** Beyond the Joke
WHEN: Wed 23 rd July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
COMEDY & CABARET
IAM Josie Long (Work in Progress)
Three-time Edinburgh Fringe Best Show nominee, Josie Long tries out ideas and hopes for the best in preparation for a full show next year, but please be reassured that you are in the safe hands of an accomplished professional. ‘Idealism and irrepressible fun are never far from the surface when Long takes to the stage’ ***** (Guardian).
WHEN: Wed 23 rd July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Ventnor Fringe Pick of the Fringe
TICKETS: £15 £12.50 u25
Ebdon Management
Lachlan Werner: WonderTwunk (Work in Progress)
He is jacked. He is ripped. He can lift 16 tonnes with his little finger. He is the world’s strongest, weakest-looking boy. But superhuman strength is a gift with million dollar strings attached… Lachlan Werner is an award-winning ‘twink’ (**** Chortle). He is also a physical comedian and ‘funniest new ventriloquist on the block’ (**** Telegraph).
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13.50 | £10.50 u25
Returning for an unprecedented fifth year following completely sold out shows since 2021. Join us for a packed night of stand up comedy from a selection of some of the funniest acts at this year’s Ventnor Fringe, curated and hosted by Edinburgh Comedy Award Winner Ahir Shah (Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week) Featuring two completely different line ups (Weds/Thurs + Fri/Sat) and special guests It’s the perfect night out at the Fringe!
WHEN: Wed 23 rd–Sat 26 th July 21:30–23:00 TICKETS: £18
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Ahir Shah
Ahir Shah (Work in Progress)
Ventnor favourite Ahir Shah returns with new material as he works towards a new show. Shah’s most recent show, Ends, won the 2023 Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show, enjoyed an acclaimed national and international tour, and is available now to watch on Netflix. Shah’s television appearances include Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, QI, Have I Got News For You, and The Mash Report. ***** Guardian
As seen on Live at The Apollo and star of ITV2, BBC Three, Dave, Comedy Central and Radio 4, Helen Bauer presents a work in progress show of her new thoughts and feelings on pretty much everything! Helen has written and toured three critically acclaimed shows in Edinburgh, Soho Theatre, Australia and all-around Europe. Her recent TV appearances include Live at the Apollo (BBC 2), Am I Being Unreasonable (BBC One) and Extraordinary (Disney Plus).
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Ingenious Fools Ltd
Queer tales for Autistic Folk
TICKETS: £12 | £11 u25
Jess Robinson, Topper & Fred with Sophie Chapman Talent
Jess Robinson: Your Song
Elton John’s greatest hits are reimagined by multi award-winning Jess Robinson (Dead Ringers, The Last Leg), renowned for her pitch-perfect impressions. Celebrating Elton through the voices of iconic women: Britney, Barbra, Amy, and more. ***** (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine). ***** (Edinburgh Evening News). **** (Chortle.co.uk). ‘It’s like a mega concert with all your favourite stars’ (ITV). ‘Naturally funny, pitch perfect’ (Telegraph).
In February 2022, Jack stopped drinking. July ‘22, he packed in cigarettes. August 2023 he gave up meat all together. October ‘23 he moved to Bristol. Cravings are still there as he continues his quest to become painfully dull. Award winning comedian, Jack Campbell, is working on a new show about giving up whilst giving in.
Johnny White Really-Really: am/pm (Work in Progress)
Refreshed from some seasons in the abyss, JWRR is back to try out a brand new show on an undeserving and innocent public. As always, expect a few wayward ideas about, for example, train travel. Get yourself down if you know what’s good of you!!
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 21:00–22:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £12
You find a mysterious door that you have never seen before. Do you open it? If yes - buy a ticket to see this show. If not - why not? Join Cerys Bradley (Actually Autistic Excellence Award 2022, as seen on Comedy Central, UKTV, BBC One Wales) for their wonderful, expansive, interactive choose-your-own-story comedy show. ***** “AUTISM!” The Neurodiverse Review.
“A great storyteller” The Guardian
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
TICKETS: £8 | £7 u25
Luc Valvona
Baron Fortitude: Victorian Rapper
Award Winning Victorian Rapper, Baron Fortitude, is here to teach you why 19th century life was superior to Modernity, via the medium of hip-hop. Carefully enunciated and frightfully witty lyrics about the Victorian era, atop a mixture of vintage jazz samples and fresh beats, interspersed with stand-up and historical facts. Find out how The Baron came to be frozen in time, before thawing in the 21st Century, who his greatest nemesis is, and the correct way to make a cup of tea.
John Tothill: This Must Be Heaven (Edinburgh Preview)
In 2024, John Tothill’s appendix burst onstage, just days after Trump was almost assassinated. Both men claimed that these near-death experiences changed them. Both were lying. Now have an Aperol spritz and join John in his own heaven as he attempts to monetise what body parts he has left. Telegraph’s Top 5 Comedy Shows 2024. Chortle’s Top Shows 2024. Support for Emma Sidi, Sheeps and Fiona Allen.
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Daniel Sinclair
The Hypnotist Live
TICKETS: £12
SFP in association with Avalon
Garrett Millerick: One Trick Pony
Creator and star of BBC R4’s hit new comedy ‘Do Gooders’ brings his ‘Big Hitting Stand-Up’ (Guardian) back to Ventnor. Collecting together his favourite jokes from the last decade alongside some blistering new routines, One Trick Pony will be an evening of the no holds barred iconoclastic stand up that has made Garrett one of the stand out live acts of his generation. “A masterclass” **** The Telegraph
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
A mesmerisingly hilarious hypnosis show where volunteers from the audience have their imaginations unlocked and realities altered, all through the power of hypnosis. Buckle up tight. Prepare to be spellbound and in fits of laughter. Choose to SEE the show or BE the show!
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
United Agents
Rajiv Karia: Man Alive! (Work in Progress)
TICKETS: £15 £12 u25
Alex Kitson
Alex Kitson: This is Water
Why did you become you? When does this all start making sense? Where did I leave my phone charger? Rajiv Karia ("Simply a great joke writer" **** The Skinny) is back with a stand-up show about love, change, fear, and fate. And man alive, he’s sure about that.
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 21:00–22:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Hickstounian Productions
Russell Hicks: Notes (Work in Progress)
TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25
American comedian Russell Hicks brings his work in progress show to Ventnor in preperation for his run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. People may know him as the ‘Dear Diary Guy’, from his videos on social meda documenting his life in Brtiain, which have received millions of views. He has also appeared on Amazon Prime, ITV, Channel 4, BBC, and will be appearing in the Edgar Wright film The Running Man in 2026.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Monroe
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
Following the success of last year, Coco Monroe’s burlesque show is bigger and better than ever with a show that will tantalise you with seductive dance to popular music. It’s family friendly (suggested 15+) as there is no nudity, just good old fashioned tease! We are so excited to get dressed up, props and chairs at the ready to entertain you with our beautiful routines and of course a bit of humour and fun tossed in for extra measure.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
TICKETS: £12
TICKETS: £11.50 | £10.50 u25
ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards and Joke of the Fringe nominee Alex Kitson follows up 2024’s multi award-nominated, five-star cult hit with a brand-new unmissable hour of fast-paced, critically acclaimed stand-up. Tour support for Fin Taylor, Tom Ward and Vittorio Angelone. ***** (ThePhoenixRemix.com). **** (TheWeeReview.com). **** (Entertainment-Now.com). **** (MumbleComedy.net). **** (EdFringeReview.com).
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 19:45–20:45 TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Royal Exit Productions Claudwick.
Claudwick (Alexander Boll) is a wealthy baron in his early twenties. Coming from some backwater town in Germany, he decides to leave his ivory tower and invest into a renovated warehouse loft in Camden, looking for the exhilarating, gritty, urban environment. The world he finds though, is not the world he knows. Fairly disappointed, he starts to educate his new environment to make his world make sense again.
WHEN: Sat 26 th & Sun 27 th July | 20:45–21:45 TICKETS: £15 £13 u25
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
KIZZA
KIZZA : RIDE THE MAGIC DONKEY
Get set for a frantically funny rollercoaster ride from the award-winning comedy magician, KIZZA. Expect a fab mix of chaos and stunning how did he do that stuff Magical disasters, incredibly stupid mind-reading routines and big big laughs guaranteed - an exhilarating comedy magic show for grown-ups! WINNER Best International Act : Copenhagen Comedy Showcase
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 21:00–22:00 TICKETS: £11.50 | £10 u25
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Brave Island is a FREE online platform for young people (aged 14–25) living on the Isle of Wight who are interested in the arts and creative industries.
Sign up and find opportunities at braveisland.uk
Coco
Burlesque Chair Dance Showcase
COMEDY & CABARET
Darren Walsh
Darren Walsh: Do You Like Puns? (Tour warm up)
Witness a pun Goliath in person, as Darren Walsh brings his 8ft frame and award winning act on the road. From appearing on Comic Relief to his ‘Jokes on the street’ series on social media, he’s been racking up millions of views, but live is where he thrives. Combining sound effects, videos, one-liners and improvised jokes based off audience suggestions, prepare for a comedy show like no other, bar pun.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Marcel Lucont
Marcel Lucont’s Whine List
TICKETS: £14.50
Niall Moorjani
The Green Knight (But It’s Gay)
Come along for queer comedy-storytelling magic in critically acclaimed Niall Moorjani’s unique and raucous retelling of the Arthurian classic. Follow the story of Sir Gawain and his adventures, all started by the peer-pressured, unfortunate and unsuccessful chopping off of The Green Knight’s head. Now Gawain is going to get his head chopped off in return by the miraculously still alive green knight.
WHEN: Sat 19 th & Sun 20 th July | 14:00–15:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
The multi-award-deserving deadpan Frenchman serves up a unique Whine List of the audience’s past gripes, moans and misdemeanours, while also dishing out some of his premier erotic poetry. As seen on Live At The Comedy Store (Comedy Central), Set List (Sky Atlantic) and Live At The Electric (BBC3). N.B. This show will be recorded for the forthcoming Whine List podcast. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before it starts.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Jack's Comedy Club
Jack’s Comedy Club
TICKETS: £13 | £12 u25
Sylvia Clare
The Mindful Gardener
Sylvia explores a year in the life of her Isle of Wight country garden, complete with resident and visiting characters. What’s in flower? What is mindfulness? What makes gardening an ideal mindfulness activity? How does this address the environmental issues besetting our wildlife as we reach global warming and encounter strange weather patterns?
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 13:45–14:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
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After a sold out shows at the Ventnor Fringe in 2023 & 2024 & placing as runner up in the Audience Choice Award Jack’s Comedy Club is back again! Headlining the event is Plastic Jeezus One of the best comedy musical duo in the country! Supporting acts include Emma Ashley-King, Polly Proud & Alex Toye, with the event hosted by resident compere Jack Clay.
Please note that line ups may be subject to change.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 17:30–18:30
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
HOUSE OF HUNS
Am I The Monster? A Quivers Stand Up Show
TICKETS: £16.50
LLL Productions
FLYWEIGHT
FLYWEIGHT is a new live literature production written and performed by award-winning poet Maggie Sawkins, that explores the unlikely theme of boxing, and in particular, female boxing. Combining poetry with nuggets of research and complemented by entertaining visuals and video sequences by filmmaker Matt Parsons, as well as audio contributions from boxers themselves, this is an engaging poetry show that really packs a punch.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd & Wed 23 rd July 13:45–14:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
£11.50 |
Imagine this: you hit 30 and suddenly realise that everything’s changed. Despite seeing your mates thriving and becoming the best versions of themselves, it’s still sending you into a spiral cuz you’re out there accepting wads of cash to do teddy bear rolls on sticky pub floors. That’s normal too surely…If you’re getting a migraine from questioning your surroundings, perhaps you too need to ask yourself the question: am I the monster?
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
Boogaloo Stu Big Quiffy Bingo
TICKETS: £12
Medina Bookshop / Tony Collins
Alan Tyler in Conversation
The Rockingbirds front-man Alan Tyler discusses his new book about his career in music. The country influenced Rockingbirds were at the centre of the 90’s indie scene appeared on Top of the Pops, Jools Holland and alongside Nirvana at Reading but never had a hit. Nevertheless Tyler with his subsequent bands remains a stalwart of the London folk and country scene and here he tells the story of his career before performing some of his greatest compositions.
WHEN: Tue 22 nd July | 14:00–16:00 TICKETS: £13.50
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
From the very towering tips of his perfectly-coiffed quiff down to the tips of his bejewelled toes, Boogaloo Stu is altogether completely ridiculous, simply fabulous and utterly idiotic. Big Quiffy Bingo is his gloriously playful and anarchic bingo experience, where utter filth, joyous fun and flashmob dances collide. “brings a smile to even the hardest of hearts” ***** Broadway Baby
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre, Ventnor Park
TICKETS: £13.50
The Island Storytellers
The Daring Adventures of Robin Hood
Step into the heart of Sherwood Forest with the legendary hero who stole from the rich, gave to the poor, and always had a trick up his sleeve. Retelling a varied mix of traditional tales, the Island Storytellers bring Robin Hood to swashbuckling life in a show full of wit, courage and adventure. Dust off your Lincoln green and saddle up your horse – it’s going to be a fun ride.
Happy Jon (quoted on the last leg) has managed to trick the Ventnor fringe again into letting him tell new and old dark, comedic, random and perverse stories about why life sucks! (Free chewy sweet for everyone who buys a ticket!)
Since 2016, Island born writer and journalist Josh Barry has been developing the podcast Beyond The Title where he and his team offer significant entertainment figures the opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon their greatest professional achievements. Josh has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy and writes with his nose on an iPad. Now, for the first time ever, the podcast is going live at the Ventnor Fringe with a guest celebrity. Special guests Thu 24th: Johnny Ball & Fri 25th Dick Fiddy
WHEN: Thu 24 th & Fri 25 th July 16:45–17:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Holly Medland What Do Women Want?
TICKETS: £11.50
Tim Cooper
Tim Cooper presents MAWGIAS
If poetry is the best words in the best order, then surely stand-ups and story tellers are poets too? Join Tim Cooper, winner of the Dublin Story Slam and host of the Ventnor Exchange Speakeasy, as he uses poetry of all forms from standup to spoken word to tell of what it means to be brave enough to love.
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 20:45–21:45
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
VEX Spoken Word Collective
VEX Presents: Circus of Verse
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
ROLL UP, ROLL UP for a spoken word show like no other with ‘Circus of Verse’, the FIFTH show from VEX (Ventnor Exchange Spoken Word Collective). Marvel! at the spectacular wordsmiths as they attempt to defy the very form of poetry itself Gawk! as they walk the tightrope walk between spoken word and circus Wonder! at the chaos. From sad clowns to feats of breathtaking puppetry, join us as we celebrate FIVE YEARS OF VEX!
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
Gawain has a problem. He insulted the Queen and now has a year to find the answer to the seemingly impossible question: “What do women want?” If he fails, he’ll lose his head. Thus begins a quest across the kingdom. After her sell out show at Ventnor Fringe 2024 Holly Medland returns with more tales packed with medieval mayhem, misunderstandings and just enough wisdom to stay alive.
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 20:45–21:45
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
Tony “Monty” Hirst + The AnyWhens Protest Days, Rebellion Nights
TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25
They were days of direct action: the Diggers and the Levellers, the Plug Drawer rioters and the Pentrich rebels; the followers of King Ludd, and of Captain Swing; of juries, and spies; of executions, and alibis. The tales of their actions are many. Today we will hear some of those stories; some of those songs; so sit back, and let the Protest tales begin. Tales: Tony "Monty" Hirst. Music & song: The AnyWhens (Glenn Koppany & Sue Cain)
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
Steph Brittain
A Dance with the Minotaur’s Sister
TICKETS: £6
Merl Fluin
Tales That Topple Tyrants
Once upon a time there was a very bad king. He stole from his subjects, told outrageous lies, declared war on his neighbours, and always got his own way... Except he didn’t. Popular local storyteller Merl Fluin makes her Fringe debut with grown-up fairy tales old and new, funny and sad, beautiful and bloody-minded. If the world feels gloomy, these stories will spark up your heart with hope, courage and defiance.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
Book tickets at vfringe.co.uk
TICKETS: £9 £6 u25
A King breaks a promise. A Queen takes passion in hand. A Prince becomes a feared prisoner. And a Princess dances and pulses with life. Join storyteller Steph Brittain as she follows Ariadne’s journey as it unravels through the maze of love, betrayal, loss, joy and the bulls and the bees. Content Warning: This performance contains sexual references contextualised within a paradigm of mythic narrative, archetype and metaphor.
WHEN: Fri 25 th July | 18:15–19:25
WHERE: The Bijou, Ventnor Park
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
MVM Productions Roscoe “Fatty”Arbuckle. The rise and fall of a Hollywood star
Following last years Frankenstein “The True Story” This production presents the life of Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle, a hardly remembered silent film star from the 1910’s to 20’s who at one time was as big as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. A rags to riches story which ended in one of Hollywoods first scandals. Presented audio-visually through film clips combined with retro vinyl records played by a live DJ
WHEN: Thu 24 th & Fri 25th July 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
TICKETS: £13 | £9.50 u25
Pulsarts
“Zig Zag Road” - A Jazz Piano Recital by Adrien Brandeis
Solo piano jazz concert by award-winning pianist-composer Adrien Brandeis from France, presenting the repertoire of his new album "Resurgence". Adrien pays tribute to the Isle of Wight with the track “Zig Zag Zoad” & in particular to Ventnor, where he has performed on many occasions and has found inspiration. Adrien is back on the European scene with new compositions in which he adds new tinges of blues, funk and swing.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 18:00–19:00 TICKETS: £13.50
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Night Owl Shows
The Elton John Story
The awe-inspiring journey of one of the all-time musical greats delivered by one of the UK’s finest Angus Munro and Night Owl Shows. Returning to Ventnor Fringe following smash hits Back to Back: The Music of Amy Winehouse and The Aretha Franklin Story Night Owl are back with a new show and new legend to celebrate. Angus Munro will lead you on an awe-inspiring journey through the music of an all-time musical great.
WHEN: Fri 18 th & Sat 19 th July | 19:00–20:50 TICKETS: £25
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena, Flowersbrook
The Bohemians
Fringe Club: Reggae & Ska Night with The Ohmz & The Bohemians
Expect a high-energy Ska-Blues set from The Bohemians – set to light up the Rotunda with their signature, 2-Tone influenced, sax-driven sound and infectious party vibes. The Ohmz, an 8-piece reggae band, with 3-piece horn section, create an original, unforgettable sound. They’ve performed at venues and festivals across the country, including opening Bestival main stage in 2017. Since their successful debut album, ‘Positivity’. + Ska-DJ Pop-a-Top.
WHEN: Fri 18th July | 21:00–00:00
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
EarsPeeled
TICKETS: £13 |
Fringe Club: EarsPeeled Presents Coach Party
Musically, Coach Party are inspired by a broad palate of artists, but always find themselves drawn back to Nirvana, Sonic Youth and The Strokes, and contemporary artists like Wolf Alice, The Big Moon and Tame Impala. Ultimately though, Coach Party’s primary drive to write and perform music comes from “the often entertaining struggle of real life.” Support on the night comes from Brighton based alternative 5-piece ‘Highdrive’.
WHEN: Sat 19th July | 21:00–00:00 TICKETS: £15.50
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Amick Productions
Cameron & Christie
Join singing duo they return by popular demand to Ventnor Fringe. Featuring songs from West End and Broadway, including Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera, and classics such as Moon River. Classical BRIT Award nominee Cameron Mills and Wight Proms Festival founder and G4 star Mike Christie combine their spine-tingling tenor and bass-baritone voices to create stunning harmonies.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 16:00–17:00 & 19:45–20:45 TICKETS: £16.50
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Cat Skellington
Fringe Club: Cat Skellington with Richard White
Experience the exceptional musicianship, unique songs, and charming delivery of Cat Skellington, led by the talented Richard White on clarinet and vocals. Enjoy rarities from the golden era of American jazz, with influences from the vibrant streets of Paris in the 1920s. Let the energetic, soulful sound of this acoustic style of jazz transport you to a bygone era. Delivered with masterful touches, nostalgia, and wit.
WHEN: Sun 20 th July | 21:00–23:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Antidepressance presents Green World
Dear Someone, It’s been 3 years, 3 different sets. This time it’s Freak-Folk and Deep Folk, Mediæval tunes, alternative tunings and all original material. Escape to the forest and get lost there. These are the songs that will get you through.
Returning to Ventnor after a very successful 2022 performance, Pippa presents Undercurrents—an enchanting harp recital exploring resilience and recovery. Performed on pedal and lever harps, the program features music from her new album, including a powerful new suite, original works, and mesmerising arrangements of contemporary minimalism from Philip Glass, Max Richter, and Ludovico Einaudi.
Kindred Found are a dirty blues infused country rock outfit hailing from the sunny Isle of Wight. They will showcase their upcoming debut album, along with a selection of fan favourite, crowd pleasing original tunes. Expect soaring lead and stinging slide, soulful harmonica and a sunshine and gravel vocal combination with a rocking rhythm section.
Previous headliners at the Isle of Wight Jazz Weekend 2024 and the Ryde Gypsy Jazz Festival, IOW. Esprit Bohème (Formerly Known as Muse Manouche) is a popular IOW based Gypsy Jazz Band performing a range of music from the Django tradition to upbeat standards with strong influences from our native French Vocalist/Scatter Olivia Cure, accompanied by Guitarists Hugo Boswell & Steve Thompson with Tom Farren on Double-Bass.
Ventnor Fringe in collaboration with ATC Live Fringe Club: Yuuf
Fringe Club presents Yuuf. Brought together by a shared passion for exploring global sounds, Yuuf is a diverse ensemble of musicians hailing from 4 different countries creating global psychedelia instrumental music. They blend elements of Motown, West African rhythms and ambient textures. After a busy day watching shows, head to Fringe Club at The Rotunda for live performances, dancing, and DJ's every night.
WHEN: Wed 23 rd July | 21:00–23:00
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
DASL
TICKETS: £13
Fringe Club: Doug Alldred & The Silver Lining
VFringe plays host once again to singer-songwriter Doug Alldred and his band The Silver Lining. Smuggling fierce observation into hook-laden songs whilst hidden under a bowler hat and shades disguise, Doug Alldred is a performer not to miss. BBC Radio 2 airplay and a long-awaited album coming soon mark this band out as one for the bucket list. “This is a lovely song” – Dermot O’Leary, BBC Radio 2 / “Sublime” - VelvetRebel
WHEN: Thu 24 th July | 21:00–23:00
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Steve Love
TICKETS: £13
Steve Love’s ‘World Tour Of The Isle Of Wight’ Show
Steve Love’s musical tour of the Isle of Wight returns to Ventnor Fringe after selling out in 2024. His unique and original songs take an irreverent but affectionate poke at Island life, and the ups, downs and quirks of this little pile of mud and rocks that is our home. Expect to hear about crab pasties, broken down ferries, donkeys, hovercraft, gin, rain, potholes, hungry seagulls, old hippies, Belgian buns, trains, scooters, buses and more - with plenty of songs to join in too.
WHEN: Fri 25 th & Sat 26 th July | 12:30–13:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Second Time Around
Across The Pond
TICKETS: £7 | £6 u25
Ventnor Fringe in collaboration with Ya Ya Yeah Music Fringe Club: Majak Door
Fringe Club presents Majak Door. Hailing from Melbourne/Naarm Australia, Majak Door have an expansive sound that is probably best described using words like dreamy and groovy. Often energetic but occasionally completely laid back too. You’ll be able to hear influences from genres including surf rock, indie and new-wave as well as blues and psychedlic. Head to Fringe Club at The Rotunda for live performances, dancing, and DJ’s every night.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 21:00–00:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Ventnor Arts Club Edwina Hayes
One of the finest female singer/songwriters this country has produced in years. Edwina brings together English folk, Americana and the rich Northern singer/songwriter tradition to create a sound that’s truly her own. Highly accomplished she’s toured with such notable performers as Jools Holland, Van Morrison, Nanci Griffith and Loudon Wainwright III to name just a few.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 16:45–17:45 & 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £16.50 | £11.50 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Ventnor Fringe
Last Night of the Fringe
Celebrate the end of another Ventnor Fringe with a big old party at the Rotunda! Featuring Special Guest Aaron Fletcher; songwriter, musician, DJ, and co-founder of The Bees. With over 30 years behind the decks, his sound blends funk, soul, disco, psychedelia, and a love for getting people dancing. The Bees' most creative and productive years happened while living in Ventnor—an area Fletcher holds close to his heart, and he's especially looking forward to returning to the place that inspired so much of his music.
WHEN: Sun 27 th July | 19:00–23:00 TICKETS: £10
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
The early part of the 17th century saw the beginning of a steady stream of British migrants into the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia and the Blue Ridge mountains of North Dakota and Tennessee. They of course took their musical traditions with them and, along with the influences brought by the victims of the slave trade, began the genesis of what was to become the now distinctive Appalachian “Old Time” sound.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 16:45–17:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Aspire Creative Hub
TICKETS: £11.50
Aspire Creative Hub presents... Re:Connect and Rehab Ramones
Aspire Creative Hub presents... Two very different bands, both making use of our community music facilities at Aspire Ryde and supporting wellbeing through the power of music. "Re:Connect" a group formed from a weekly workshop at Aspire, first set up to support musicians living with dementia. It’s now open to all who would like to reconnect with their love of playing. "Rehab Ramones" A 3-piece band Rocking Recovery and the best tunes from the New York Punk scene.
WHEN: Sat 26 th July | 14:30–15:30 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Rotunda, Flowersbrook
Artisan Stalls | Coffee | Street food Dudley Road, Ventnor
Scan for dates:
Special Thanks
We always have so many people to thank that makes Ventnor Fringe happen! It’s a huge collaborative effort and everyone involved cares a lot - something we hope shines through.
Thank you to: the committed volunteer team, crew, bar teams, the Ventnor Exchange staff, all our contractors, our sponsors and supporters, the Culture/ Unlimited Pass holders, our amazing and talented artists who journey from all over to perform, workshop practitioners and traders and of course thanks to you our audience –you’re the reason we care so much and we hope you enjoy being a part of it.
This programme is dedicated to Margaret Jowitt of the Book Bus family and who will be missed.
Please join us in raising a glass to her this Fringe.
& Illustrations : Hugo Bilton
Photos: Julian Winslow, Maria Bell, Lucy Boynton, Chris Jones, Charlie Price and Madelaine Green
Ventnor Exchange in collaboration with Max Calaf, Sur Mesure & 15feet6 presents…
22nd – 25th July 2025 6pm – 8pm
Ventnor Botanic Garden
Explore Ventnor’s famous Botanic Garden after hours as an international cast of acrobats and performers transform the tropical gardens!
The perfect adventure for adults and children of all ages.