We’re so excited to welcome you to Ventnor Fringe!
At the Fringe, all artforms are welcome so there really is something for everyone. Performers at all stages of their career rub shoulders together, test new material and refi ne their craft. It’s where it all begins.
This year there are over 130 different shows listed in this programme, and beyond this the wider ‘Free Fringe’ which spills out into venues across the town, with exhibitions, buskers and happenings around every corner!
Ventnor Fringe was fi rst founded by local teenagers and remains proudly independent, 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 providing opportunities for over 700 local young people, some of whom will be performing, exhibiting, and working behind the scenes!
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.
At the heart of the festival is the Fringe Village in Ventnor Park, free to enter and a central spot with incredible street food, bars, workshops and performances. It’s a great place to hang out between shows. In the evenings the action shifts down the hill to Club Lunar at Flowersbrook where you can party into the evenings.
For the adventurous, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for newsletters to be the fi rst to hear about our famous ‘Secret Shows’ which make a triumphant return this year after a post COVID hiatus.
Whether it's your very fi rst visit, or you’ve been with us since the beginning, thank you for supporting us and being part of creating something truly special in a unique part of the world. We hope you have a wonderful Fringe.
Ventnor Fringe is curated by Ventnor Exchange
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!
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.
the free to enter Fringe Village at Ventnor Park during the day, or Club Lunar (ticketed) during the evenings..
If you need advice on buying tickets to shows 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 09:30–23:00 every day. There is also a Box Offi ce tent in Ventnor Park next to the main entrance open 10:00–22:00 daily.
Culture Pass £10 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 £10 ticket deals. Culture Pass holders also get the same £10 tickets to shows at Ventnor Exchange Arena through the year as well as being the fi rst to hear about Secret Shows!
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.
Explore the Free Fringe
Sometimes the best things in life are free. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to explore Ventnor during the Fringe and between ticketed shows. There will be buskers in the town in shops and pubs and in Ventnor Park as well as art installations and free shows- you never know what you might fi nd. Check out our website for free fringe listings or pick up a copy of the Fringe Review.
Bike Hire
New for 2026! We’ve teamed up with VOI who have provided e-bikes and scooters to hire and zoom about the town. Download the VOI app to get started. You can also park your own bikes at these locations. Find bike points on the map: Ingrams Yard, Fringe Square, Ventnor Park & Ventnor Botanic Garden
Booking Terms & Conditions
There is a booking fee for cash, card or online transactions. All tickets are nonrefundable and non-transferable. 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 Pass or concessionary ticket. All bookings are subject to our full Terms & Conditions which are available on our website.
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 09:30–23:00 during the festival Phone 01983 716767
Accessibility at the Fringe
We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy 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
Seating
Seating is not 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 a performance, we will have accessible spaces reserved for every venue.
To book these please update your Box Offi ce website account, 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 Arena & Club Lunar)
St. Catherine’s Church
Ingrams Yard
Pier Street Playhouse
Ventnor Botanic Garden
Carers/ Assistants
We’re happy to provide free tickets to registered carers/assistants. You can edit your accessibility online on your Box offi ce website account, by calling us or just come in to Ventnor Exchange to ask to have your account updated.
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 via email hello@vfringe.co.uk
Venues 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 St, PO38 1SW
Open: 09:30–23:00
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 find help with any other enquiries. Ventnor Exchange also houses an epic craft beer bar with a great atmosphere, cocktail menu, and fresh coffee.
Catherine’s is a beautiful church, adapted with modern facilities to make it the perfect place for intimate concerts.
The Fringe Square
Church St, PO38 1SW
Outside the church, is the Fringe Square, outdoor seating area and busking stage. There will be music, poetry and storytelling here check our website for listings.
The Book Bus
Church St, PO38 1SW
Open: Tues–Sat 10:00–17:00
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 will also be a Book Market featuring stalls from Medina Bookshop and other independent booksellers and children's storytelling at 11:00 on both Saturday mornings of the festival.
Makers Market
St. Catherine’s Church
On Saturday 18th & Saturday 25th July 10:00–15:00 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!
Ventnor Arts Club
13 High St, PO38 1RZ
Open: for events only
Busking and Street Acts
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 four shows a day. With just 45 seats, shows here can sell out fast!
Ingrams Yard
Dudley Rd, PO38 1RZ
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!
Open: 12:00–23:00 (closed Mon)
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 and food available. Inside the building you’ll find a ‘pop up’ theatre space in the joinery workshop which hosts some of the best stand up comedy shows, clown acts and alternative theatre.
The Garage
Open: Fri 17th–Sun 19th & Thu 23rd–Sun 26th July
In the yard, find The Garage hosting a spoken word celebration with shows, workshops and an exhibition.
On Tue 21st & Wed 22nd July – step back into the 1980's with Ronnie Fountaine at his boozer to hear dynamite tales of the gangster underworld of the Eastend.
Pier Street Playhouse
Baptist Church, Pier St, PO38 1SX
Open: for events only
Right in the centre of town, this Baptist Church transforms into a little theatre during the Fringe with new writing, plays and comedy daily.
Venues Fringe Village
The Fringe Village is a whole festival in its own right, and home to 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 and Flowersbrook.
Ventnor Exchange Arena big top tent, our largest venue, with stunning views out to sea and towards Ventnor Bay. You can’t miss the big pink tent!
Bosco Theatre
The Workshop Tent
Ventnor Park, Park Ave, PO38 1LE
Open: for events only
A new space dedicated to learning new creative skills and relaxing with wellbeing workshops. Enrich yourself with yoga, soundbaths, acting workshops, print making, Drawing Club and more. Find out more on page 37.
Club Lunar
Flowersbrook, PO38 1LF
Open: 12:00–2300 (midnight on weekends)
After a busy day watching shows make your way to Flowersbrook and discover late night cabaret, a cocktail bar, live music and DJs. Each evening you’ll find special guests headliners and an eclectic music policy spanning jazz, latin, cumbia, brass party bands, psych, funk and soul, lovingly curated by the Ventnor Exchange team.
The Putting Green, Park Ave, PO38 1LE Open: for events only
We are excited to have The Bosco Theatre back 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 History podcasts to live hypnosis, drag bingo and our popular Pick of the Fringe.
The Bijou
Ventnor Park, Park Ave, PO38 1LE
Open: for events only
The Bijou is an intimate tented venue designed for poetry, storytelling and comedy & cabaret shows. This is a truly ‘fringey’ venue where you might find something weird and wonderful.
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.
The Hangry Bear
From fresh pizza to Mexican tacos and Iranian kebab. 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…
Home to the signature Bear Mac Burger, a Wagyu smashed patty with American cheese, maple-cured bacon, and their secret Hangry Bear Mac sauce alongside a rotating selection of local specials and sides. They source directly from Trenchmore Farm (award-winning for its sustainable, grass-fed Wagyu beef) with veggie and vegan options also available.
Saffron Hill
Serving authentic Iranian street food, including Saffron Chicken & Lamb Kebab, Falafel & Halloumi, Saffron Rice, Fresh Salads & Baklava. Their menu also caters to vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal diets, perfect for a family-friendly crowd.
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 coffeesgreat for pre-show snacks.
Prickly Pear
Mexican street food including mouthwatering tacos, irresistible nachos, loaded high and topped with fresh, homemade salsas. And to finish? Treat yourself to their delicious chocolate-filled churros.
Master Coffee Co.
Boho-surfer style drinks van crafting organic barista Coffee, Iced Coffee, Homemade Lemonade, Frappes and Iced Matchas.
Tibetan Memories
Open: Tues 21st–Sun 26th July only
Homemade dishes and spiced tea are all made from scratch, like hand pulled Tibetan noodle vegan soup and their famous Momos (Tibetan Dumplings) served with a homemade chilli dip and soya sauce.
A Taste of The Isle at Ingrams Yard
Returning to Ventnor Fringe as residents at Ingrams Yard, Taste of the Isle will be back with their traditional Greek food including their famous gyros, keftedes meatballs and baklava. They’ll also be providing the Yard with a great coffee and ice cream spot.
Craft Beer & Cocktails
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.
Ingrams Yard
Dudley Rd, PO38 1EF
Open: 12:00–23:00 (Closed Mon)
Right in the heart of Ventnor, with a sheltered courtyard that provides a central hub, a few minutes walk from all of the town venues.
Parkside Bar
Ventnor Park, Park Ave, PO38 1LE
Open: 12:00–23:30
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.
Club Lunar
Flowersbrook, PO38 1LF
Open for Arena shows and every evening from 20:00
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 The Arena.
The Bandstand
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
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…
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!
Free jazz concerts from The Roaming Melodies every evening from 19:00–21:00 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 throughout the festival in he Fringe Village.
The Amazing Katleen by Circ Rodini
Sat 18th & Sun 19th July 13:00
Will ‘The Amazing Katleen’ still be worthy of her name? An ode to the old circus with a contemporary twist.
RIDE by ZoieLogic Dance Theatre
Sat 25th & Sun 26th July
12:00–12:25 & 13:30–13:55
RIDE A playful spin on the summer road trip featuring three blokes and a 1980s Ford Orion. It’s dance theatre like you’ve never seen it before!
VISUAL ARTS
Peer Studios & Vtown Gallery CIC
LOOK UP-ART FOR THE OFFLINE MIND
“LOOK UP-Art for the Offline Mind” Open Call Exhibition. We invite you to Peer Studios & Vtown Gallery’s exhibition. Ditch your phone and dive into real creativity. Explore the work, then join us to paint in a space filled with colour, music, light, and no screens. Just you, friends. art, and your imagination. “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have”-Maya Angelou
WHEN: Fri 17 th–Sun 26 th July Check website for times TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Peer Studios (Pier Street)
Ventnor Artists Collective
Ventnor Artists Collective Fringe Exibition
Ventnor Artists Collective is an evolving group of varied creatives who have been active in the area since 2017. We present Painting/ Mixed Media/ Drawing/ Ceramics/ Photography/ Linocut Prints & Decorative Hangings plus cards and all sorts of other itsy bits for your delectation. The group works to maintain monthly workshops, which are social as well as learning experiences. We are keen to welcome new members.
Annik Cullinane is opening her studio each morning, between 11 am and 2pm.... Come and see a whole range of contemporary art; colorful vibrant paintings, collages, prints and a collection of one-off, unique, ‘wearable art’ coats and waistcoats.... You can also have a go at making a collaged, fabric/paper greeting card or small picture – all materials provided.
WHEN: Fri 17 th–Sun 26 th July 11:00–14:00 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: The Workshop (97 High Street)
Ventnor Fringe Makers Market
On both Saturdays of the festival we will be holding the Makers Market at St. Catherine’s Church. Free entry to check out stalls of all kinds of makers – art, jewellery, crafts, clothes cosmetics and more come and have a browse!
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sat 25 th July | 10:00–15:00 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: St Catherine's Church
espergaerde
A Tool for Ventnor
First developed in 2016 as a speculative evolution of a Bronze Age blade found on the Isle of Wight, The Nipper knife traces an imagined lineage of tools across time. Now revisited at Ventnor Fringe, it is remade in public, shaped by place, process, and use. Inspired by the local wooden chip fork, this version sheds its origins while still carrying them. By making visible what is often hidden, the project challenges the idea that “people don’t make things anymore.”
WHEN: Sat 18 th–Sun 19 th & Sat 25 th–Sun 26 th July | 14:00–17:00 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS
Katie Bennett and Charlie Rosse
Marriage Material
Charlie is on the hunt for a husband and needs your help. After enduring years of hilariously disastrous dates (cheers Hinge), true love has proven elusive so she is taking matters into her own hands. In this 50-minute, one-woman show, Journey with her as she blends comedy, poetry and theatre into a joyous antidote to breakups and singledom. Can you succeed where the dating apps have failed? Or will Charlie remain alone forever?
WHEN: Fri 17 th & Sat 18 th July | 12:30–13:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Tide Nor Time Players CIC
The King In Yellow
TICKETS: £9.50 £9 u25
Tom Pagett
735
The future of working life, today! We here at Corporate Management Solutions are delighted to invite you - yes, you - to attend one of our exclusive, behind-the-scenes presentations of the proper workplace of the not-too-distant future.
WHEN: Sat 18th & Sun 19th July | 15:00–16:00 TICKETS: £12 £9 u25
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Tide Nor Time Players present a live radio play performance of the cursed play, The King in Yellow, adapted and directed by Simon Bucher-Jones. This atmospheric production brings Robert W. Chambers’ haunting and enigmatic tales to life through voice, sound, and imagination, immersing audiences in a world of mystery, madness, and creeping dread.
WHEN: Fri 17 th & Sat 18 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £11.50 | £9 u25
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Chris Sinatra
UNDER MY SKIN
A heart felt homage to the king of swing, chairmen of the board and leader of the pack... Mr Francis Albert Sinatra & friends... His life in songs and stories, focusing on the untold truth of his mission to support diversity and inclusivity. Tales pictures and songs to celebrate an incredible life well lived performed by the souths premier storyteller and tribute with a wealth of theatre film and television credits, kick back in this cosy venue in the town centre.
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 16:00–17:45 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Brainfools Circus + Theatre (feat. ich-duO)
Brainfools Circus + Theatre presents: Balance
Two circus artists, two steel beer kegs, and a path of empty glass bottles. In Balance, Jared and Toffy find a physical language of trust in the inventory of a pub cellar. There are no traditional circus rigs—just the cold weight of metal, the sharp fragility of glass, and the constant negotiation of staying upright. They lift, they catch, they slip, and they hold on. A circus duet about finding your centre when the ground feels like it’s tipping.
WHEN: Fri 17 th, Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 17:00 –18:00
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Raising Cain Productions
The Night Ali Died
TICKETS: £16 £12 u25
Angus Baskerville Magic
Unmasked - The magic of Angus Baskerville
For his triumphant return to Ventnor after last years spectacular ‘Hidden Powers’, Angus Baskerville brings an all-new show ‘Unmasked’ that pushes his acclaimed storytelling and magic to new heights. Drawing on his own experiences of growing up with autism and ADHD, Angus finds new ways – and new tricks – to show us how we spend so much of our life hiding who we really are and how ‘dropping the mask’ can often make us feel better.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £15 | £12 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
DreamArts Rep Company
What We Do When We Can’t Dance
DreamArts Rep Company is a theatre company of young artists from refugee backgrounds, touring original productions fusing theatre, film, music and lyricism. What We Do When We Can’t Dance is a vibrant coming-of-age story packed with big laughs, bold beats and a shocking twist in a story of friendship, first love and finding your place.
WHEN: Tue 21 st July | 13:00–14:20
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Maybe You Like It
Whatever Happened To That Guy?
TICKETS: FREE
Ali is wanted by a vicious London Gangster and is placed under police surveillance for the protection of him and his family, yet one night, Ali decides to sneak out, sparking a bloody domino effect that ricochets through the sleepy streets of his city. The Night Ali Died has been collecting a vast amount of accolades since, winning five awards in its first six months of touring.
WHEN: Fri 17 th, Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 21:00–22:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £12 £11 u25
In 2008, A-Lister Guy Wesley disappeared. Now, he’s writing his tell-all memoir. At least, that’s what failing author Bee Leigh wants her publishers to believe. Pleasance Associate Artists Maybe You Like It’s brand new laugh-out-loud comedy promises fast-paced thrills, frantic multi-rolling and an awful lot of lying for a show inspired by a true story. Expect ‘a mountain of wit and meta-theatrical humour’ The Scotsman.
Mellow Drama returns to the Ventnor Fringe to proudly present a short play in three Acts: “The Emperor strikes back” “Star Draws” and “The Return of the Magi”. A long time ago in a galaxy not far away an evil Emperor develops plans for the ultimate weapon with enough power to subdue the whole known world with the assistance of a dark Lord.
WHEN: Tue 21 st & Wed 22 nd July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
£9 | £7 u25
PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS
DELUGE
A comic exploration of grief, inspired by a break-up and over 40 interviews gathered via a social media call-out. In the wake of a relationship, a woman tries to contain the overflow of her thoughts…She ends up stuck in a ladder, fighting against komodo dragons, house leaks, holes, and jam jars that only seem to multiply. Deluge puts a magic realist spin on dealing with grief, blurring imagination with real stories.
The Trojan Horse. 1184BC. The multi award-winning smash hit Burning Down the Horse comes to Ventnor! This immersive comedy epic drops you into the heart of the most iconic wooden animal in history - the Trojan Horse. Become part of this “infectiously funny” (Fringe Review) tale as you contend with heroic egos, class clashes and sword supply issues. Created by the team behind last year’s smash It’s Gonna Blow!
British Magic Champion Mark Shortland will blow your mind with some totally brilliant conjuring. This fun packed show will engage the audience with a mixture of illusion, audience participation and a “unique brand of comedy” which are all blended together with an individual style of magic and suggestion, creating an act the edge of your seat was made for. “You’ve blown our minds!” Ant and Dec
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Norvil
& Josephine
Rabbits Out of the Hat
After their 5-star studded season at Edinburgh Fringe, vaudevillian duo Norvil & Josephine present a magical extravaganza for all ages! They’re a magician with a secret and an assistant with a mission in this whimsical comedy musical magic show, the likes of which the world has never seen. “Uniquely magical show, brimful with heart”
AAAAA World Magic Review
WHEN: Wed 22 nd–Sat 25 th July | 13:00–14:05 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Explore Ventnor’s famous Botanic Garden after hours as The Circus Trail returns with an all new cast of acrobats and performers. We’ll once again be transforming these beautiful tropical gardens into a unique promenade performance, created especially for Ventnor Fringe. It’s the perfect festival adventure for adults and children of all ages, where you’ll be guided on a trail through the gardens and discover all sorts of acts along the way!
A ducking-stool. A shrew’s fiddle. A scold’s bridle. Jean G-Owen’s troupe of Reckoners—Karl Whitmore & Sandy Kealty—fuse poetry, music and movement to re-stage the punishments designed to keep women in line, those scolds, witches, saints and dissenters who refused to say NO! ‘exhilarating, yet chilling’ AAAAA ‘a warning, a celebration, and a rallying cry.’
AAAAA
WHEN: Tue 21 st July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou
Harrison Sweeney
Final Queen
TICKETS: £13.50 | £11.50 u25
Fools Harvest
On Holiday With Herzen
A dryly humorous new play exploring Ventnor’s unexpected role in Russian history. On Holiday with Herzen revives characters from Turgenev’s Fathers and Sons, tracing a line from the Island to revolution, assassination, and the fate of modern Russia. A witty “postcard from Ventnor” imagining how history might have unfolded differently.
Fizzy is a new, sharp, funny and heartfelt play about friendship, music and growing up in the late 1990s. Set in a world of mixtapes, gig queues and borrowed bravado, it follows a tightknit group of friends building themselves out of mixtapes, in-jokes and stubborn hope, trying to work out who they are before the moment slips away. For the mixtape-makers, the music lovers, the over-thinkers, and the ones who grew up a little out of step (or still working it out.)
A Drag Circus Horror Comedy. Priscilla Queen of the Desert meets Texas Chainsaw Massacre under the Big Top! Join Australia’s own circus queen Grace Lightning as she embarks on a road trip through the outback, dodging deadly snakes and spiders, bigoted cryptids, and chainsaw-wielding bushrangers on a murderous rampage. But are these monsters really what they seem…?
WHEN: Tue 21 st & Wed 22 nd July | 21:00–22:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13.50 | £11.50 u25
WatEvVA productions The Man in the Moon
The Man in the Moon. A guitar slinging Ventnor Taxi Drivers tale. Scribbled on a notepad in a hospital ward following a series of heart attacks, Simon Gooden was determined to tell one last story. This is it.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church
Gabi Flares & Andrea Maciel
PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS
C.J. Carter-Stephenson
Skysteamer to Athens: Steampunk Storytelling Extravaganza
Join C.J. Carter-Stephenson as he brings his steampunk novelette SKYSTEAMER TO ATHENS vividly to life. See a model airship soar over your head and meet a talking automaton puppet in this thrilling reader’s theatre performance. A lavish sensory experience, which will transport you back to a fictionalised version of the 19th Century, where top hats and corsets are the height of fashion and the wonder of steam is transforming the world.
Discover the remarkable story of Marie Curie in this faithful and evocative play that celebrates one of the most groundbreaking minds in history. Performed by Abbe Lee and Mark Stratford, the play takes us on the journey from Marie’s early struggles as a young immigrant scholar to her rise as a pioneering scientist. Through moments of love, humour, obsession, and triumph, the play reveals the sheer strength and heart behind the unstoppable genius.
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 a whip smart cast. Packed with priceless wit, lyrical smarts, romance, and a dash of doublecrossing, this leading ensemble do the Bard proud with a brand new hit every time, inspired by audience suggestions. “Simply sublime, side-splittingly hilarious” AAAAA Broadway Baby
WHEN: Fri 24 th & Sat 25 th July 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Tide nor Time Players CIC
Lovestruck Alley
Lovestruck Alley is an all-original musical, completely written, composed and produced by the young people of Carisbrooke Cast. Step back into the 1980’s as we join our cast of misfits and slackers hiding behind the backdrop of a run-down bowling alley. Alli and Tash were settled into a life of mediocrity until the flamboyant Striker walks in and changes Alli’s life forever.
WHEN: Fri 24 th & Sat 25 th July 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £11.50 | £9 u25
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Giles Cooper
The Night Baker
“Welcome to the night shift. First time? You’ll be fine. Trust me. It’s like…it’s exactly like jet lag.” Written and performed by actor and baker Giles Cooper, ‘The Night Baker’ takes you to the heart of the overnight shift at a bakery, exploring the physical and mental demands on the solitary baker.
WHEN: Fri 24 th, Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 21:00–22:00 TICKETS: £13 | £11.50 u25
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
RedTIE Theatre
The Queer Bash
Performed originally for Isle of Wight Pride 2017 and UK Pride 2018, ‘The Queer Bash’ now returns for its third iteration. An original, devised play by Carl Burch for RedTIE Theatre. The Queer Bash is an in-depth exploration of the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community today and historical struggles that have never quite dwindled. It is also an unapologetic celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 14:00–15:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Underluminal Confused Chronicles of Aleppo
|
“A stunning piece of writing” – Reviewers Hub. An unusual love story during the Syrian civil war at beat rhythm. Gerard and Becky, two established photographers, travel in Turkey and Syria, crossing dramatic events such as the siege of Kobane and the battle of Aleppo. The most dramatic conflict of the third millennia read at beat rhythm through the eyes of two young adults ready to live and die for what they believe in.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £11.50 | £7.50 u25
WHERE: The Bijou
Caulkhead Productions
The Quest of Ebondale
Join Artie and Hester as they escape their lonely existence in the real world to embark on a quest for the fairy queen’s wand, in the magical kingdom of Ebondale. With their trusty guide on hand, the two evacuees venture into Ebondale’s Darkest Forest, meeting fairies, warlocks and other magical characters on the way. As all good quests do, they face challenges, riddles and dilemmas a plenty! A musical adventure for all ages!
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £12 £9.50 u25
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
IW Creative Network X Mayflower
Scratch Night at Ventnor Fringe
Join us for Scratch Night - a lively evening of short, punchy performances and works-inprogress from Island artists. Presented by IW Creative Network & Mayflower, Scratch Night showcases brand-new theatre, comedy, spoken word and performance pieces currently in development. From experimental theatre to musical comedy, each act offers a glimpse of new work being tested in front of a live audience.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 19:00–20:30 TICKETS: £3–10 PWYC
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Wight Salt
Why is the Sea Salty?
A fun and dramatic reading of myths and legends for children and adults with a small jar of Ventnor Sea Salt to take home.
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sat 25 th July | 11:00–12:00
WHERE: Ventnor Library
SESKA
SESKA
- SUPERSILLYMAGICSHOW
TICKETS: £3.50
at Ventnor Park
Super-hilarious family comedy magic for families. Crazier than finding a penguin in your fridge, one of the UK’s funniest family friendly comedians is back with a new bonkers show!
Turbo-charged fast-paced super interactive magic show sells out at festivals and arts centres leaving audiences with a huge grin on their faces.
“One of the world’s top comedy magicians.” BBC Radio
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 14:30–15:15 TICKETS: £10
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Pirates Prov
Pirates Prov – Avast!
Citizens beware - the dastardly crew of the vile sloop Pirates Prov are coming ashore to Ventnor Town. Infamous for their improvised stories of adventure, swashbuckling and bootyhunting, these rambunctious rogues will stop at nothing to entertain. So come aboard the good ship Pirates Prov for barrels full of freebootin’ shenanigans. You’d be a scurvy ridden, toothless scallywag to miss out.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Circ Rodini
The Amazing Katleen
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
Will ‘The Amazing Katleen’ still be worthy of her name? An ode to the old circus with a contemporary twist, presented by CircRodini. In the nostalgic atmosphere of a classic act, the acrobat begins her perfect graceful routines with handstands and balancing stunts. A series of blunders later, we learn that The Amazing Katleen is only human, with ups and downs, but fortunately also with a loving family and audience that willingly helps her out.
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 13:00–13:45 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Ventnor Park
ZoieLogic Dance Theatre RIDE
It’s dance theatre like you’ve never seen it before! Three men, bound by chance, find their paths converging around a curious thing: a 1980s Ford Orion that appears to have a life of its own. As they embark on an exciting journey, they are made to confront the blurring line between man and machine – and the shifting identities within themselves. Ride is Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with an ‘80s vibe, with tons of athletic physicality and daring stunts.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 12:00–12:25 & 13:30–13:55 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Ventnor Park
Sat 18th & Sun 19th Sat 25th & Sun 26th 11:00–16:00
Family Fringe is back for a third year running, curated by our friends at New Carnival, who have been delivering vibrant, exciting and innovative creative projects for over a decade.
This area is specially curated for families looking for something fun for children, especially those aged 5-12, with everything from games to graffiti, carnival crafts and circus skills.
Activities available include:
• Games – Hula hoops, limbo, hoopla etc,
• Graffiti and drawing
• Small world area
• Crafting activities
• Musical instruments
• Dress Up Box
• Glitter tattoos
• Circus Skills
• Dance
• Carnival costume making and large costume walkabouts!
• Circus Workshops with Azaria 14:00–15:00 each day!
Entry to the Family Fringe is £10 (Including 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 children must always be supervised by an adult. Sometimes a particular activity may be busy, if this happens we will operate on a first come first served basis/ one in, one out.
COMEDY & CABARET
Ahir Shah
Ahir Shah: Golden (Work in Progress)
HBO and Netflix star Ahir Shah (Live at the Apollo, Mock The Week, Have I Got News For You, QI) is back with his new stand-up show Golden. His last show, Ends, won the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show, sold out shows across the world and was recorded as a comedy special for Netflix.
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 17:00–18:00 & Tue 21 st July | 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £15 | £13 u25
The Matriarch of Twisted Pop Cabaret takes you on a spontaneous and interactive genrespanning extravaganza. Frisky and her incredible band bring you their five-star smashhit show. And what will that entail you ask? Any song. Any style. You decide. Heavy-Metal Madonna, Opera WAP, DrumnBass Candle in the Wind. Come play Remix Roulette with us. ‘Bold, brilliant, and utterly unmissable’ AAAAA London Theatre Doc
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 18:00–19:00 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Ruby Carr
Ruby Carr: BITE ME
New silly stand up show from “enchanting human shaped hurricane” (Edinburgh Reviews)
Ruby Carr. Ruby has been promised a Hollywood smile from her dentist in 32 weeks. The NHS only has 12 to fix her OCD. Working on her teeth and her brain all means one thing, there’s a lot going on in her head. The plan is simple: fix her teeth, fix her life, so that she can move up a metaphorical floor in her head and finally fix that pesky mental health.
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou
Avalon
Pierre Novellie (Work in Progress)
TICKETS: £13 £11 u25
Ebdon Management Felicity Ward
& CABARET
Nominee Best International Act 2025 NZ International Comedy Festival. In 2025 Felicity Ward (Live at the Apollo, The Office - Australia) was the happiest she’s been in a decade. What happened? Divorce, Bisexuality, and Dancing with the Stars. And this bonafide showpony’s greatest gift is that she simply cannot shut tf up. ‘great big snorting exhortations of comic laughter’ AAAAA The List (UK)
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Laugh Now Think Later
Laugh Now Think Later
Award-winning, five-star comedian Pierre Novellie swims over to try out his new show on you. As heard on Radio 4 and seen on television and, of course, the internet. “jumps from one ingenious routine to another...glorious” AAAA Dominic Maxwell, The Times “dazzling oneliners...gags so good that resistance is futile...a mini-masterpiece of extensio ad absurdum” AAAA Brian Logan, The Guardian
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
PBJ Management
Adam Flood: Life and Death of the Party
TICKETS: £13
Standup performed over big electronic beats. A show about Adam’s vanishing nightlife. ‘It shouldn’t work, but it absolutely does’, Metro. ‘A multifaceted comedy talent’, Guardian. As seen on BBC and ITV. Adam, from Stoke-on-Trent, was once a teenage drug-dealer, then an indie rockstar, now a comedian. In 2025 his debut standup show was released by the BBC. In 2026 he ran, sober, full speed into a closed glass door. Broadway World AAAA
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
TICKETS: £15 | £13 u25
TICKETS: £13 | £11.50 u25
Laugh Now, Think Later. Three stand-up comedians bring sharp wit, clever one-liners and fresh observational humour to one punchy night of comedy. Tim Sque opens the show, Joe Fortis follows and Jack Clay closes. Laugh now. Think later.
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 20:30–21.30 TICKETS: £11.50
WHERE: The Bijou
Amy Ambrose Dogmum
Written by & starring Ventnor’s own Amy Ambrose. A musical rom-com for anyone whose Prince Charming turned out to be a cockapoo. When the dating pool resembles a crime documentary, one woman finds true love in fluffy dog Alfie. Funny, heartfelt & painfully relatable, DogMum is about heartbreak, healing and discovering that sometimes the happy ending arrives with muddy paws and terrible breath.
WHEN: Fri 17 th & Sat 18 th July | 21:30–23:00 TICKETS: £15
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Ventnor Fringe
Pick of the Fringe
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 and Ventnor Fringe favourite Ahir Shah (Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week) Featuring different line ups every evening so you can always expect something new, It’s the perfect night out at the Fringe.
WHEN: Fri 17 th & Sat 18 th, Fri 24 th & Sat 25 th July | 21:30–23:00 TICKETS: £18
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Mr. Thing
The Mr. Thing Show
Mr. Thing are back “broadcasting” live from Ventnor. Become part of the studio audience as Tom and Owen, Puppet Steve and a crew of Things pull together a TV variety show live on stage with surprise guests, interactive games, video sketches, live music, remote controlled cameras, musical robots, technical hijinx and much more. Welcome to the multimedia mayhem that is The Mr. Thing Show. ‘A comedic riot’ (Telegraph). ‘I was howling with laughter’ (Metro).
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
COMEDY & CABARET
Avalon
Huge Davies (Work in Progress)
Edinburgh Award Nominee Huge Davies (Cats Does Countdown, Off Menu) has not slept for a decade. To mark this ten year anniversary, he’s going to tell jokes about it whilst wearing a big keyboard; watch? ‘Ingenius’ Edfringe Review AAAAA ‘Masterful’ Chortle AAAA Telegraph AAAA The List AAAAA
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13
The Guilty Feminist x The Road to Gilead Project
Since 2016, The Guilty Feminist podcast has racked up over 180 million downloads by examining the noble goals of 21st century feminism and the hypocrisies and insecurities that undermine them. We welcome the questioning and the committed alike to come together in honest conversation about how we might form real coalitions for change. Come join host Deborah Frances White & her fellow comedians, activists and guests.
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 18:00–19:00
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Lawrence Dodd
Lawrence
Dodd:
This Can’t Be It
& CABARET
Cerys Bradley
Cerys Bradley: On Road Signs (Work in Progress)
STOP. Cerys Bradley (Actually Autistic Excellence Award 2022, as seen on Comedy Central, UKTV, BBC One Wales) has hyperfixated on road signs. Road signs are very pretty and they make Cerys’ brain go brrrrrrp. If you like road signs, follow the directions below for a silly and short history of road sign design as well as some heartfelt musings on the monotony of everyday life and the joys of autistic obsessions. GO.
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 20:30–21:30
WHERE: The Bijou
TICKETS: £10 | £8
TICKETS: From £10
Li Jin Hao: Falling From A Moon
I just can’t stop. Going into the past feels good. I never go into the future, I don’t wanna know. I want to know again what I knew. I don’t want to know the new. Ew. Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer Nominee and Chortle Best Newcomer winner Li Jin Hao is a comedy writer and performer. AAAAA Telegraph AAAAA The Skinny AAAAA The Age
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13
Perpetually derailed, deluded, and paralysed by overwhelm, Big Loz Dodd arrives to do something very special indeed - something that might just deliver the kind of profound insight that shakes our ‘contemporary situation’ to its core. Blending performance art and contemporary clowning, This Can’t Be It is a semi-improvised, feverish & open hearted exploration of how we stay open to the mystery when everything is closing us down.
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou
Ebdon Management
Sam Nicoresti: Baby Doomer
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
Joe Wells and Abigoliah Schamaun
Neurodivergent Moments
Two comedians, Abigoliah Schamaun (ADHD) and Joe Wells (autistic), read from their new book. “A fantastic introduction to what it’s like to be neurodivergent: funny; interesting; and free from the preconceptions and cliche that have built up around the subject.” – Frankie Boyle
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 18:15–19:15
WHERE: The Bijou
A glistening diamond hour of stand-up from “delusional trans comedian” Sam Nicoresti about love, insanity, and the hunt for the perfect skirt suit. Following a critical maelstrom of success at the Edinburgh Fringe, and three weeks of sold-out performances at London’s Soho Theatre, Sam finally brings an extended and revamped version of her breakout hit show Baby Doomer to the great unwashed (i.e. goes on tour).
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Dan Kelly
TICKETS: £15
How I Went to Every Supermarket in the World
Dan has been a data collector for 10 years. You know when they say how much it costs to live somewhere? He’s the guy who finds out. He travels round the world and walks around supermarkets recording the prices of apples / cheese / you name it into his Dictaphone. He’s been to pretty much every supermarket, in every country, in the world. This is the story of how. From the man who brought you How I Came Third in the North Korean Marathon.
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
|
Avalon
Katie Norris - Mother Succubus (Work in Progress)
Boys of the manosphere: prepare to be spooked. Women with cats: your leader has returned. Last year’s Edinburgh Best Show Nominee is back and ready to enter a new era. A stand-up and musical comedy show about maturing adorably from the self-appointed Godmother to the Nation. As seen and heard on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (C4).
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13
TICKETS: £12 £9.50 u25
Stephen Catling
Clownfish Out Of Water
When clowns can’t breathe water and fish can’t breathe air- what’s a poor Clown Fish to do in this cruel world? In 2025, Catling (Keep It Fringe Award Winner 2023, Malcolm Hardee Award Nominee 2023 & 2025) lost his slug mask. It was an essential part of his cult hit show ‘Moving on...really really slowly.’
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 20:30–21:30
WHERE: The Bijou
TICKETS: £11.50 |
The Guilty Feminist with Deborah Frances White
COMEDY & CABARET
Boogaloo Stu presents Big Quiffy Bingo
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. After another glorious sell-out season in 2025 at the Brighton Fringe Spiegelgardens and the UK tour that followed last summer, the legendary bawdy raconteur is once again taking his outrageous one-man show Big Quiffy Bingo out on the road.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £15 | £13 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Eddie Summers
RONNIE
FONTAINE: CLOSE-UP AND CRIMINAL
Close-Up and Criminal plunges you into the East End underworld of the 1980s. Ronnie “Flash” Fontaine, a former London gangster, unleashes thrilling tales of bank heists, armed robbery, failed jobs, and narrow escapes. A master hustler, he used his magic to con, smuggle, steal, and slip away from danger. Close-up magic performed inches from your eyes blurs the line between myth and reality. One performer. Ten at a table. Thirty unforgettable minutes.
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’.
WHEN: Tue 21 st & Wed 22 nd July | 16:45–17:45 TICKETS: £11 | £8.50 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
POLICE COPS
Police Cops
The multi award-winning comedy blockbuster makes its Ventnor debut! With 20+ five-star reviews, globally acclaimed Police Cops bring you the show that started it all! Supercharged for 2026, expect adrenaline-fuelled physical comedy, 80s bangers and uncompromising facial hair. Winner: Stage Award for Acting Excellence. Winner: Best Show, Toronto Fringe. Winner: Best International Show, Cape Town Fringe. AAAAA (WhatsOnStage.com).
WHEN: Tue 21 st, Wed 22 nd, Thu 23 rd & Fri 24 th July | 18:00–19:00 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Steve Taverner and Cat James
Taverner and James ‘Rhyme and Reason’
Bawdy bard Steve Taverner and opinionated newspaper columnist Cat James, return to Ventnor Fringe with a revised version of their ‘Rhyme and Reason’ show. Using poetry, prose, sketches and song, plus Cat’s vintage school recorder, Taverner and James explore the issues which perplex, enrage and entertain us. With their opposing writing styles, can these two established social commentators find some common ground?
WHEN: Tue 21 st & Wed 22 nd July | 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £9
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
& CABARET
Mirth of Forth Productions
Richard Pulsford: Gold Fashioned Jokes
One-liners and quality light-hearted jokes from the UK Pun Championships winner 2022, Scottish Comedian of the Year runner-up 2021 and You Must Be Joke King winner 2024. 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.
WHEN: Tue 21 st & Wed 22 nd July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS:
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Grant Sharkey Webber!
A bawdy, hilarious new musical about the life of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber (Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Starlight Express) as he’s guided by Margaret Thatcher to achieve his dream of becoming ‘filthy rich and f***ing useless’. Will he ever become a Lord? Will he fly back to London to vote to cut tax credits for the poor? Find out in Webber! Written/Composed by and starring Grant Sharkey and The Ventnor Darling’s Laura Clare Reid.
WHEN: Tue 21 st July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £15 | £13 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
David Hoskin
A Haunted House
Mime, clown and slapstick performer David Hoskin (‘Phenomenal’ AAAAA BroadwayWorld. com) presents A Haunted House; on a tour of a spooky old mansion, silly vignettes and strange time loops reveal murder, memory loss, and dancing zombies. It’s like spending the night with the League of Gentlemen and Jacques Tati in a Hammer horror film. In a dark, dark house on a dark, dark street, a house of horrors wakes from sleep... dare you enter?
After a 5 star, award-nominated, totally sold out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, Molly McGuinness is going to be mixing her debut show Slob with some brand new material prepping for her next show. As seen on Comedy Central Live and heard on BBC Radio 4. BBC New Comedy Awards finalist. Tour support for Joe Lycett, Sophie Duker and Rachel Fairburn. “A supremely funny set from a future star” AAAAA The Herald
WHEN: Wed 22 nd July 18:15–19:15 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: The Bijou
Avalon
Rob Auton - JUPITER
I am writing a new show. It is a story about me being an estate agent on the planet Jupiter. It would be great to see you if you fancy it? ‘A genuine original’ The Guardian ‘We need him’ The Scotsman ‘Just sad’ Vanessa Feltz
An only-child with two siblings, Andrew White enjoyed a precocious childhood befriending retirees & penning self-indulgent poetry, until a literal circus clown warned him of imminent death on his 18th birthday… All the Jester foretold came to pass, and now Andrew must reflect on life without three close loved ones and do his best to honour their memories. Don’t miss this hilarious, honest & heartwarming new stand-up comedy show.
WHEN: Wed 22 nd July | 20:30–21:30
WHERE: The Bijou
Joe Kent-Walters
Joe
Kent-Walters
TICKETS: £12 | £10.50 u25
is Frankie Monroe: DEAD!!! (Good Fun Time)
Yorkshire’s biggest bastard and Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer 2024 is back, after yet another sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival! This time he’s dead… dead good! And also, dead. He’s a dead man. Join the nation’s favourite demonic entertainer, owner of a Working Mens Club in Rotherham what is also a portal to hell, as he dazzles you from beyond the grave. See him now before he is well and truly gone.
WHEN: Wed 22 nd July 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £15
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Queenie Miller
Rob Preston: Amazing Global Solutions (Work in Progress)
Character comedian Rob Preston just wants everything to be perfect again. Join him and his unlikely cadre of alter-egos on their quest to dominate the content space, end mental health and bring lasting international peace to the entirety of the globe globally. A big ask? Sure. But someone’s got to pull their finger out. BBC New Comedy Award and Pleasance Reserve Shortlist. Soon to appear in Leo Reich’s Channel 4 and A24 sitcom It Gets Worse.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd & Fri 24 th July 16:45–17:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
100% Badgers with Matt Hobs
TICKETS: £12.50| £10.50 u25
Jess Robinson and Topper & Fred
Jess Robinson: Elton Reimagined
& CABARET
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, Jess returns with her ‘dazzling vocals and wickedly sharp impressions’ AAAAA (BroadwayWorld.com). AAAAA (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine). AAAAA (Edinburgh-Reviews.co.uk). AAAA (StageDoorJoe.co.uk).
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
United
Agents
Jonathan Oldfield: Exquisite Corpse (Work in Progress)
|
Award-winning character comedian Jonathan Oldfield is making his debut comedy hour. Creator and star of BBC Radio 4’s Time of the Week (winner of Best Sketch Show at British Comedy Guide Awards) and BBC New Comedy Awards Finalist. “Brilliant” The Observer. “Left me snorting with laughter” BroadwayWorld.“Always funny” Chortle
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 21:00–22:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Ebdon Management
Tom Ward: Post-millennium Tension
TICKETS: £13 | £11.50 u25
100% Badgers is the sell-out 2025 Edinburgh Fringe stand-up comedy show where Matt Hobs talks about how the worlds of humans and badgers collide. The show takes us on Hobs’ journey from a passing interest in badgers, to an obsession that leads to him standing in a field looking at a caged, frightened badger caught up in the misinformation of the bovine TB debate. AAAA .5, Edinburgh Reviews. “belly laughs” AAAA
WHEN: Thu 23 rd & Fri 24 th July 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
United Agents
Lil Wenker: BOYKING
TICKETS: £15
Before Tom bails out on the modern world entirely to commit to nostalgia full-time, the burner phone using, Discman carrying, 1988-1995 obsessed freak is giving the present tense one last try. Not for him, but for his 2-year-old son who lives there. But how does 2026 compare to the one he grew up in? Tom explores the head f**k of popular culture in the modern world versus that of his youth in his trademark bittersweet style.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Frankie Monroe
Frankie Monroe’s Late Night Pick N Mix
TICKETS: £15 | £13 u25
ALL HAIL BOYKING! Eight-year-old Prince Wilfred (“Willy” for short) seeks power at all costs including but not limited to: death, destruction & dastardly deeds. Nowhere near in line for the throne, Prince Wilfred ruminates on a plan for total world domination while guzzling Mummy’s Milk. Bow down—this coronation’s a killer. Created by the award-winning performer-director duo Lil Wenker and Cecily Nash. AAAAA “A masterclass in clowning” Voice Mag
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 19:00–20:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13
Join Frankie Monro, the nation’s favourite demonic entertainer and Yorkshire’s Biggest Bastard, as he presents a very special late night mixed bill featuring a host of some of the best clowns and surreal comedy of the festival. We’re not quite sure what will happen, but one thing’s for certain, It will be a fever dream you won’t forget in a hurry. “Plenty of fun for fans of Johnny Vegas, The Mighty Boosh and Vic and Bob…
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 22:30–00:00 TICKETS: £18
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Lara Ricote: Inkling (Work in Progress)
Inkling (WIP) is a work in progress of what will become my third hour long show uh OH... I’ve been thinking some stuff for a bit and it might be coming out here… uh oh!…. This might be a show about where I get my ideas and what it all might mean…. Uh oh!!! It’s got stories and silent bits and loud bits and gossip bits and I think it’s my stupidest smartest one yet. The Guardian describes her as a “razor-sharp goofball,”
WHEN: Fri 24th July 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £13
Matt Hobs
COMEDY & CABARET
A&E COMEDY Do All The Things
From the award-winning idiots behind Game of Crones, Enter The Dragons and Witch Hunt, A&E Comedy bring you, Do All The Things. With a playful interactive twist this isn’t just a show, it’s an invitation to get involved, dose up on dopamine and soak up the serotonin. Part cabaret, part game show, part house party, Do All The Things is a celebration of commonality, an ode to the absurd. With big prizes.
WHEN: Fri 24 th, Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
TICKETS: £16 £14 u25
Tom Ballard: BE FUNNY CHALLENGE (IMPOSSIBLE) (WIP)
MELBOURNE COMEDY FESTIVAL & EDINBURGH COMEDY AWARD NOMINEE.
As seen on Fisk and Deadloch. As heard on Radio 4 and The Bugle. After a year away from touring, doing nothing but being nice and uncontroversial, Australia’s Special Envoy For Comedy Tom Ballard returns in 2026 with a new show packed with jokes about war and being naughty and being kind and just how extremely normal everything is right now.
WHEN: Fri 24 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Glenn Moore
Glenn Moore (Work in Progress)
Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show nominee Glenn Moore (as seen on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Have Got News For You and Cats Does Countdown), one of the greatest joke writers of his generation, reads out a torrent of new, untested jokes from his notepads to see what works. Host of the hit comedy podcasts Budpod and Button Boys, and his own BBC Radio 4 series Glenn Moore's Almanac. AAAAA (Chortle.co.uk). AAAAA (Mail On Sunday).
WHEN: Fri 24 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £15
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Royal Exit Productions GbR Claudwick.
Claudwick is young, wealthy and heir to a large fortune from a noble family. Being raised in some backwater town, he decides to leave his ivory tower and invest in a renovated warehouse loft in Peckham, looking for the exhilarating, gritty urban life. A sharp, satirical, comedic theatre show on the choking reality of gentrification and the intellectual bewilderment of obscene wealth. Directed by award-winning director Katharina Boll.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 13:00–14:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Ian Vallance
The Magic Juke Box
TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
Avalon
Garrett Millerick: We Tried it Your Way
& CABARET
Creator of BBC Radio 4’s hit new sitcom Do Gooders returns with a unique live comedy experiment… Garrett’s built an AI of himself to see if it’s better at comedy than him. Maybe he can finally retire? Join Garrett and Garrett for a blistering hour of the no-holds-barred iconoclastic stand-up that has made him one of the stand out acts of his generation. ‘A masterclass’ AAAA Telegraph. ‘Wonderfully funny’ AAAA Times
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 17:00–18:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Drunk Women Solving Crime
Drunk Women Solving Crime
After four sell out years at V-Fringe, Ventnor’s very own Hannah George is bringing her award-winning true crime comedy podcast to The Arena! With millions of downloads and listeners all over the world, Drunk Women Solving Crime is one of the top podcasts in the UK. Hannah, along with her co-detective Taylor Glenn, will ‘solve’ an Isle of Wight based true crime – so get your detective hat on and come and join us!
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 18:00–19:00 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
IAM
Lou Wall: Where Are All The Tall Grandmas (Work in Progress)
Lou Wall is a multi-award-winning comedian, composer and content creator known for their genre-defying, politically savvy, and musically driven comedy. In 2023, Lou won the prestigious Moosehead Award and premiered Lou Wall vs The Internet at Melbourne Fringe and Edinburgh—going on to win Best of the Festival at the 2024 Sydney Comedy Festival and earning a nomination for Most Outstanding Show at the 2024 Melbourne Comedy Festival.
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Shell Pig Productions
Who are they?
After having such a hoot at last year’s festival, Jack Campbell returns with a new show. Stemming from a flippant comment whilst watching local news on a Christmas visit back home a few years ago, Jack has had an idea for this show for 15 years. “Who are they?” is a historical, geographical, interactive and most importantly a pro-migration show in a day and age of increasing right-wing anti-immigration sentiment.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £12 £9.50 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Press play… and let the magic begin! Step back in time for the ultimate feel-good magic show! Join magician Ian Vallance as he spins the jukebox back to the 70s and 80s, when he was a Butlins DJ and the dancefloor was always full. Now he brings those memories to life in a show where music and magic meet. From disco classics to pop anthems, every track sparks astonishing magic and illusion.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 15:00–16:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
DS PRODUCTIONS
The Mind Reader Live: Mind Reading & Mentalism Show
Join renowned Mind Reader & Mentalist Daniel Sinclair, direct from London’s West End. A mind reading and mentalism show that will leave you on the edge of your seats. Expect Derren Brown-style mind games, comedy and all-round psychological wonder as Mind Hacker Daniel reads volunteers’ minds and makes astonishing predictions live on stage. “The next Derren Brown” (Phoenix Arts) “Mind Blowing Entertainment” (BBC)
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £16.50 | £13.50 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
COMEDY & CABARET WORKSHOPS
Jo Larcombe Vibrate
Everything you didn’t realise there was to know about vibrators.... told through story and song.
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 21:30–22:30 TICKETS: £12
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Thor Stenhaug (Work in Progress)
Channel 4 Sean Lock Award Finalist Thor Stenhaug is a Norwegian comedian based in London. He had a completely sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe 2025 with his debut show “One Night Stand Baby”. Thor has headlined top comedy clubs across the country, and recently completed a run at Soho Theatre, London. AAAA The Telegraph AAAA The Scotsman
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 17:00–18:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Daniel Sinclair
The Hypnotist Live
£13
Fringe Frequencies: A Ventnor Sound Journey
Step into a curated series of immersive Gong & Bowl Sound Baths inspired by the shifting atmosphere, coastline and natural rhythms of Ventnor. Each session carries its own distinct mood, frequencies and soundscape, connected through the creativity and energy Ventnor Fringe brings to the town each summer. Bring mats, pillows and blankets for comfort. Unsuitable for those with seizures, pacemakers or who are pregnant.
WHEN: Tues 21 st–Fri 24 th July | 10:45–11:45
WHERE: The Workshop Tent
Art Nomad Petra Janouskova
Printmaking Workshops
Come and join us for a three special creative printmaking workshop led by Czech artist Petra Janouskova ART NOMAD. These workshops are for any experience level and ability – ages 12 and up. The classes will cover the full process of printmaking, from initial design through a finished print.Tetrapark Printing: Tue 21 st–Fri 24 th | 15:00–16:30
WHEN: Tue 21 st–Fri 24 th July | (see above for times) TICKETS: £9
WHERE: The Workshop Tent
Join one of the UK’s top stage hypnotists and mind readers – direct from London’s West End… Prepare for an evening of amazement as Mind Hacker Daniel Sinclair unlocks volunteers’ imaginations and alters their realities – all through the power of hypnosis. Blending truly jawdropping moments, comedy and music, Daniel takes you on a rollercoaster ride of your minds – leaving you questioning your own realities while laughing out loud.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 18:00–19:00 TICKETS: From £10
WHERE: Ventnor Exchange Arena
Impatient Productions
Rosie Holt: The Illegal Aliens have landed! (Work in Progress)
Rosie Holt and her MP alter ego are back with a new show, this time fighting their biggest foe yet. While battling bad polls and the rise of the far right, Labour suddenly must contend with an actual alien invasion. A Sci-Fi streaked satire. “Can Holt’s comedy career survive the advent of a Labour government? On this evidence, you’d fancy her chances.” - The Guardian. “Tightly crafted and brutal political satire with Orwellian flourishes” - The Evening Standard.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 19:00–20:00 TICKETS: £13
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
Burlesque Meets The West End
This Cabaret evening is bringing you the glamour and glitz, with West End musical show tunes, Burlesque Chair Dance at its finest, talented stage singers, and all that Jazz! Coco Monroe is an island artist celebrated for polished performances, as seen at Warrior Festival, Strings, and Ventnor Fringe. This time, she returns with her Showgirls and a skilled vocal artist, inviting you to experience the magic of West End musical classics.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 21:30–23:00
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
TICKETS: £12 £10 u25
Lew Williams
Scaravelli Yoga Workshop – An Embodied Journey
Embark on a transformational journey into the inner landscape of your body and breath with Scaravelli-inspired yoga teacher, aromatherapist, and healer Lew Williams. Through gently tending to and befriending your remarkable body—and following Lew’s uniquely intuitive, story-rich approach to yoga—you can discover a deep sense of strength, grace and freedom, no matter your age, flexibility, or level of experience.
WHEN: Thu 23rd & Fri 24th July | 9:00–10:15
WHERE: The Workshop Tent
Actor Workshop for Adults
ACTOR WORKSHOP for ADULTS: VENTNOR FRINGE SPECIAL. 90 mins of playful acting games + techniques to explore what you can do. No experience needed. Just come and play. Bring water, comfy clothes, your sense of humour. Phones off. Doors close 1:05pm. What happens in the room, stays in the room. For the curious, the rusty, the brave.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd July | 13:00–14:30
WHERE: The Workshop Tent
Katy Rose Design
Drawing Club with Katy Rose
TICKETS: £13.50 | £11.50 u25
Drawing Club is a social gathering bringing together all of those with a love of drawing, spanning all ages and abilities! Hosted by guest artist professional illustrator Katy Rose. In this taster session Katy will be on hand to set you some fun challenges and help offer advice and feedback on how to improve your technique. The theme to create a project together and also a take home keepsake is ‘Keep Ventnor Weird’. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. All Materials provided.
WHEN: Fri 24 th July | 13:00–14:30
WHERE: The Workshop Tent
TICKETS: £9
Emma Turner
Coco Monroe
VEX Spoken Word The Garage
THE GARAGE’ is an exciting new venue curated by the VEX Spoken Word Collective. It's THE place for poetry and spoken word at Fringe. What it lacks in size it makes up for in character with a varied programme of events and exhibitions that’ll run throughout Fringe. When there’s not some kind of performance on, it’ll be open for anybody to explore it as an exhibition space including a multitude of interactive elements to help the budding poet in you flourish.
WHEN: Fri 17 th–Sun 19 th & Thu 23 rd–Sun 26 th July | 12:00–22:00 TICKETS: Various see website.
WHERE: The Garage (Ingrams Yard)
Pete “Stokey” Woodall
A Walk Through The Solar System
This unique experience follows a 1,000-yard model, where each inch represents 100,000 miles in space. Meet every day at 1400 hours, at Ventnor Exchange for a friendly celestial introduction chat .The walk will then commence from a scaled model of the Sun, conveniently located just meters away from the Exchange, outside the Mushi restaurant. and conclude at the downgraded planet Pluto at Ventnor Park.
“It’s a bish-bosh, wish-wash, car crash mishmash!” From gangs of gung-ho Anglo-Saxons to Covidiots and Instagram influencers, this one-woman show by spoken word artist and linguistics nerd, Melanie Branton, celebrates the history of our glorious, multicultural tongue, through the media of performance poetry, silly hats and dad jokes. “A wonderfully eccentric, sharply intelligent, and surprisingly moving evening” AAAAA A Young(ish) Perspective
WHEN: Fri 17 th, Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 18:30–19:30 TICKETS: £8
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
Angus Baskerville Magic
Naughty or NeuroDiverse – An Aspies Road to Magic
Bullied. Misunderstood. Unstoppable. From being expelled from three schools and surviving relentless bullying, to discovering a deck of cards that changed his life, Angus Baskerville’s extraordinary journey is anything but ordinary. Here he talks about his memoir ‘Naughty or NeuroDiverse - An Aspies Road to Magic’ & how he has harnessed his ADHD & Autism diagnosis to great effect, becoming a successful Magic Circle accredited magician along the way.
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 13:45–14:45 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
CANON FODDER is a POETRY and MUSIC show, usually found at The Social and Glastonbury Festival, coming to Ventnor Fringe 2026 on a mission to feed the CANON and feed the SOUL. Join us to celebrate POETRY and MUSIC, the HAPPENING and the HAPPENED! Raise a toast to NEW DISCOVERIES and those we LOVE THE MOST!
WHEN: Sat 18 th & Sun 19 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS: £11.50 | £9.50 u25
WHERE: The Bijou
Medina Bookshop
"Strange Young Alien" with Bid from the Monochrome Set
Join Bid of The Monochrome Set for an intimate “in conversation” event with acoustic songs. Drawing on Strange Young Alien, Bid explores his surreal lyrics, from eerie lines to stories of stalkers, spies, and strange inspirations. Part memoir, part mystery, he reveals “the Creature”—his post-aneurysm artistic self. Expect insight, humour, and unforgettable songs
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 16:45–17:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Luke Wright
Later Life Letter
Later Life Letter tells the story of Luke Wright’s adoption – the life he leads, and the one he might have done. Wright navigates his audience through a warm and honest hour of poems and stand-up with the wit, pathos, and silliness that has made him one of the most popular live poets in England. Expect raucous laughter, tear-stained cheeks, and a little smattering of drum n bass.
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 19:30–20:30 TICKETS: £17
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Wight Salt and The Bistro
Cooking with the Sea
Hosted by Wight Salt and The Bistro, sample some tantalising delights of food prepared using the seas natural seasoning, curated by Chef Andrew Holloway accompanied by a talk by Wight Salt producer Simon Davis. Please book directly at The Bistro, Ventnor, Pier Street 01983 853334 for either 13:00–14:30 or 17:00–18:30 on Tuesday 21 st July. Bookings close on 14 th July. Event costs £29.50 for food and talk.
WHEN: Tues 21 st July | 13:00–14:30 & 17:00–18:30
WHERE: The Bistro (Pier Street)
IW Ghost Experience
TICKETS: £29.50 (Book direct)
Tales from the Isle of Wight Ghost Experience
For over 30 years, Marc Tuckey has been enthralling visitors to and residents of the Isle of Wight with haunting historical tales of grisly ghosts, ghouls and ghastly goings-on. Many have enjoyed the walks he leads with his team – now is your chance to settle back in your seat for some more spooky stories – this time with a family feel.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 13:00–14:00
WHERE: Ingrams Yard
TICKETS: £15 | £10.50 u25
Three friends - Graham Brown, Donna Jones, and Sylvia Clare
Funny That
Three friends, each from vastly different backgrounds, Barnsley, Beckenham and Aldershot, come together to perform wry stories, wacky poems, and weird confessions. Do you like to explore the underbelly of life or just have your belly tickled. Do you enjoy having your assumptions about life challenged? Funny That bring together a rich seam of intoxicating life stories, humour & poetry.
WHEN: Tue 21 st July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: The Bijou
TICKETS: £13.50 | £8.50 u25
Lily Blacksell Canon Fodder
Beyond The Title Beyond The Title Presents...My Hero: Barry Cryer
Between 2010- 2018 Island born writer and journalist Josh Barry interviewed the comedy legend Barry Cryer. Their mutual passion for the history and development of British comedy was always the catalyst to Cryer’s fascinating stories. Earlier this year, with the help of Barry’s son: the writer and actor Bob Cryer and a host of stars Josh told the story of his unlikely friendship with one of the most important figures in postwar entertainment.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July 16:45–17:45 TICKETS: £13.50 | £9.50 u25
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Happy Jon
Smile Like You Mean It (final cut)
Happy Jon has again tricked/manipulated/seduced/blackmailed the Ventnor fringe into letting them perform new and old dark, random and sometimes perverse stories about life. (Free chewy sweet for all who attend)
WHEN: Tue 21 st July | 20:30–21:30 TICKETS: £10 | £9 u25
WHERE: The Bijou
CHARLI OHLALA
SILENT DISCO STRUT: A Wild Moving Disco Adventure Through Ventnor
Silent Disco Strut. Wild, ridiculous and fun. A flamboyant, entertaining moving silent disco adventure through the fringe and Ventnor. It’s open to everyone! It’s open air and hysterical! Grab your headphones and hit the streets for a joy-fuelled, interactive silent disco like no other. Strut, dance and sing your way through Ventnor in a gloriously ridiculous roaming party led by a flamboyant host.
Award-winning stand-up comedian Richard Pulsford hosts this show for history fans. Three guest comedians / history buffs perform short stand-up sets based ‘on this day’ in history before exploring some possible alternative histories of Ventnor people and events. Recorded for the It Just So Happened history podcast. Previous guests have included Arthur Smith, Iszi Lawrence, Simon Munnery and Alasdair Beckett-King.
WHEN: Wed 22 nd July 14:30–15:30 TICKETS: £16 £13 u25
WHERE: Bosco Theatre
Tony “Monty” Hirst
Monty
Storyteller
– Solent Tales, Macabre Stories
It’s a time for spying, and a time for sabotage. The last quarter of the 18th century and Britain is at war with France and America. Portsmouth, as the home of the Navy, is a target... So come here tell, as Island based storyteller Tony “Monty” Hirst brings to life dark tales of those times.
Step back in time for an evening of Medieval mischief, mystery and mayhem! These timeless tales feature a cast of truly unforgettable characters. A gang of youths embark on a pursuit to hunt down death, a clueless carpenter braces for a biblical flood and a swindler swears he has the skill of turning sticks into silver. So join the Island Storytellers for an evening of warmth, wisdom and wit in this fun and lively celebration of community storytelling.
Following a sold out event last year (“Protest Days, Rebellion Nights”), storyteller Tony “Monty” Hirst and and folk/blues duo The AnyWhens bring their new show “Faery Tale Blues” to the Bijou Tent for 2026. Featuring original and traditional songs, and traditional and historical tales, Monty + The AnyWhens invite you take a step outside the ordinary, to another world that is forever hidden in plain sight.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd & Fri 24 th July | 15:30–16:30
WHERE: The Bijou
FlippantRemarks
Grapple
TICKETS: £10 | £8.50 u25
An ageing man still trying to make sense of reality. Join me on my journey. Spoken word (poetry and Storytelling) For adult ears only, 16+
Delve deep into the wisdom and wonder of Tarot with this wildly imaginative live storytelling show. For hundreds of years, Tarot cards have fascinated and beguiled. They’ve told fortunes, uncovered secrets, and held up a dark mirror to the mysteries of life. Now performance storyteller Merl Fluin reveals the Major Arcana in a whole new light. Prepare to be spellbound.
The Courtesan, the Prince, Three Lovers and a Poet
A young woman in renaissance Venice makes a decision that echoes through the years. In Sheffield a young man receives news that will change the life of everyone he knows, and in a dark wood in Surrey a happily married couple find themselves in a very sticky situation. Tim Cooper, host of the Ventnor Exchange SpeakEasy and regular on the Solent spoken word scene, weaves from these stories a narrative about how we love and choose to be loved.
As massive as an eagle, as tiny as a lark, as colourful as a kingfisher and as plain as a sparrow, feathery tales from the folklore of the land. Storyteller, Sue Bailey, tells stories which definitely wouldn’t share the same nest.
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 12:30–13:30
WHERE: Pier Street Playhouse
The Railwayman and Other Stories
TICKETS: £10 £8 u25
Antidepressance presents
Lights in the Desert
Dear Someone, this is the last of four sets; the end of the globe. The theme for this final year is ‘no one is an island, but I don’t feel connected’. All original songs, played mainly on guitar. The music is just beyond the borders of country, blues, film soundtrack and primitivism. Inspired by western films, samurai films, cults, outsider art and road trip books. Next year you will be seeing other people.
WHEN: Fri 17 th July | 15:30–16:30 TICKETS:
WHERE: The Bijou
Join violinist and harp player Charlie Wild for her debut multimedia show. With a backdrop of vintage 70's film footage from the Isle of Wight Railway, Charlie will present a musical retelling of her father's true tales and memories from the time he worked as a railwayman on the Isle of Wight in the 1970s and 80s. With beautiful original music composed and performed for each story, she promises you a heartwarming afternoon of new music, old stories and nostalgia.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 13:45–14:45
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Holly Medland
The Fabled Isle
TICKETS: £14 | £11.50 u25
The Anywhen collective River Man – Inspired by Nick Drake
Beautiful, soulful, and deeply personal. University music student Jay River makes his solo Fringe debut with a stunning tribute to the songs of Nick Drake. Interpreting these folk masterpieces from guitar on to piano and vocals, Jay reveals himself as a gifted arranger and performer. A captivating, all-ages showcase of one of the Island’s most promising young composers
WHEN: Sat 18 th July | 19:30–20:30
WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church
TICKETS: £12 £10 u25
Discover the Isle of Wight’s strange history through its stories, where fact and folklore weave seamlessly together. With an array of characters featuring sly smugglers, heroic hermits and raging river spirits, each tale holds at least a touch of truth - though exactly how much is for you to decide. Following sell-out shows in 2024 and 2025, Holly Medland returns to Ventnor Fringe with an enchanting retelling of the traditional stories that have shaped the Island.
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 18:15–19:15 TICKETS: £12 £10 u25
WHERE: The Bijou
Rhymes Against Humanity
Poetry and Spoken Word - but not as you know it. Ade Smith is a comedy performance poet.
With his book (I Don’t Ask For Much) already on the shelf and his second coming soon, ‘The Poet Smith’ brings his stand-up poetry show ‘Rhymes Against Humanity’ to the Bijou. Serving up his unique blend of honest, observational and comedy poetry, Ade shares his thoughts through the beauty of rhyme - on all the important issues in his life and yours!
WHEN: Sat 25 th & Sun 26 th July | 20:30–21:30 TICKETS: £11.50
WHERE: The Bijou
Jim Thorn Quintet Latin Jazz night with the Jim Thorn Quintet
Jim Thorn (piano) is one of the Island’s best known jazz musicians and promoters, and organises the annual Isle of Wight Jazz Weekend. Joining him are vocalist Loren Thorn, along with Joe Thompson (guitar and trombone), Jon Thorne (bass) and Ken Black (percussion). The quintet perform instrumental and vocal (often in Portuguese) versions of latin and other tunes, as well as a wide repertoire of the works of Jobim.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 19:30–21:00
WHERE: St Catherine's Church
Second Time Around
Around the World in Eighty Minutes
The desire to express ourselves through music is shared across our planet. Singing songs or crafting soundscapes transports us to other times and distant places, that embody our cultural uniqueness and illuminate our diverse values and conventions. Around the World in Eighty Minutes brings you a taste of the extraordinary and exciting musical traditions, folklore, and customs from around the globe.
WHEN: Sun 19 th July | 21:30–22:50 TICKETS: £10
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Andy Roberts & Friends Andy Roberts Acoustic Island
An evening of brilliant Acoustic Island musicians over two hours with an interval. The cast includes emerging and established talents comprising duos and solos in a variety of acoustic styles from Singer Songwriter to Country, Classic Folk Blues and Modern Originals. Featuring: Daysi and Amelia - harmony vocals and guitar duo. Kindred Found - radio and festival Americana stars. Andy Roberts - Singer Songwriter, Playwright and tonight’s MC.
WHEN: Wed 22 nd July 19:30–21:30 TICKETS: £12 £9.50 u25
WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church
Charlie Wild
Ade Smith
Sign up and find opportunities at braveisland.uk
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.
Tom Gamble
Tom Gamble
Award-winning English guitarist Tom Gamble returns to the Isle of Wight for two special performances at the Ventnor Fringe Festival. Celebrating the release of his sixth solo album, “Six-String Vagabond”, join Tom at the Ventnor Arts Club for a genre-bending concert featuring original music, songs and virtuosic arrangements for guitar. Tom’s live performances have been praised for their “virtuosity, spontaneity and humour”.
WHEN: Thu 23 rd & Fri 24 th July 21:30–23:00
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
Hugh Wright and David Jowitt
Everything’s been returned that was owed
TICKETS: £15 | £11.50 u25
A journey into Bob Dylan’s roots. Bob Dylan has been accused of stealing other people’s songs and tunes since 1961. He wrote ‘yes, am a thief of thoughts not, I pray, a stealer of souls / I have built an’ rebuilt upon what is waiting. In this concert Hugh Wright, presenter of two sell-out Dylan Fringe Shows gets together with David Jowitt (aka Antidepressance) to present a new show including friends such as Dick Taylor (‘Pretty Things’) and others.
WHEN: Fri 24 th July | 19:30–21:30
WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church
Francis Griffiths
Between the Lines: A Piano Recital
TICKETS: £16.50
In this recital, I will attempt to explore the evolution of music as it shifts from the expressive Romantic style of Chopin, through the impressionistic colours of Debussy and Satie, to the rhythmic freedom and improvisation of jazz. It highlights how each era influenced the next, blurring the boundaries between classical tradition and modern musical expression. The recital will include questions and some audience involvement!
WHEN: Sat 25 th July | 19:30–20:45
WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church
Creative Hub
TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25
Aspire Creative Hub Presents... Acts from our Community Music Facilities. Freestyle Rap, Rock and Pop Youth Bands, and Loads of Fabulous Live Music from our talented Community Groups.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 15:00–17:00 TICKETS: FREE
WHERE: Club Lunar
Mark Rolfe/Winnetka Records
Mark Rolfe – Music from the Island
Renowned ambient composer Mark Rolfe brings his acclaimed Isle of Wight album. Inspired by a lifelong love of the Island, this immersive live performance merges field recordings gathered across the Isle of Wight with lush cinematic soundscapes and evocative photography. Atmospheric, reflective and richly transporting, it offers a unique audio-visual journey through landscape, memory and place. For fans of Brian Eno, Sigur Rós, Pink Floyd and Sufjan Stevens.
WHEN: Sun 26 th July | 21:30–22:30
WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club
TICKETS: £13 | £9.50 u25
Live Music: The Soulfire Project / The Turbans / Evolfo
Hula Hulagans / Fugo Kid / Jawari / Sol's Hot Town Stompers
Live Music: The Soulfire Project / The Turbans / Evolfo
Tuba Lubres / Malphino / Ushti Baba
Hula Hulagans / Fugo Kid / Jawari / Sol's Hot Town Stompers
Tuba Lubres / Malphino / Ushti Baba
Cabaret & Circus: Brainfools / Circ Rodini
Poppy Plowman / Josephine & Norvil
Cabaret & Circus: Brainfools / Circ Rodini
Poppy Plowman / Josephine & Norvil
–Late | Tickets Weekdays £12 & Weekends £15 AT THE FRINGE VILLAGE, FLOWERSBROOK
11:00–14:00
21:30–22:50 Around the World in Eighty Minutes Ventnor Arts Club 43
DAILY LISTINGS MONDAY
09:00–10:00 Scaravelli Yoga with Erling The Workshop Tent 10:00–16:00 LOOK UP – ART FOR THE OFFLINE MIND Peer
OPEN TO VISITORS The Workshop (97 High Street) 15
13:00–14:20 What We Do When We Can't Dance The Arena 17 13:00–14:30 Botanical Monotypes workshop The Workshop Tent 37 13:00–14:30 Cooking with the Sea The Bistro
23
10:00–16:00 LOOK UP – ART FOR THE OFFLINE MIND Peer Studios (Pier Street) 15
10:00–16:00
10:45–11:45
13:00–14:00 SILENT DISCO STRUT: A Wild Moving Disco Adventure Fringe Village Box Office 40
13:00–14:05 Rabbits Out of the Hat The Arena 19
13:00–16:00
15:00–16:00 SILENT DISCO STRUT: A Wild Moving Disco Adventure Fringe Village Box Office 40
15:00–16:00 A Haunted House Ingrams Yard 31
15:00–16:30 Tetrapak Intaglio Printmaking workshop The Workshop Tent 37
15:30–16:30 Mellow Drama at the Ventnor Fringe Pier Street Playhouse 17 16:00–16:30 RONNIE FONTAINE: CLOSE-UP AND CRIMINAL The Garage (Ingrams Yard) 30
16:45–17:45 Richard Pulsford: Yorkshire Dad, Immigrant Mum Ventnor Arts Club 30
17:00–18:00 DELUGE Ingrams Yard 18
17:00–18:00 Burning Down the Horse Bosco Theatre 18
19:00–20:00 100% Badgers with Matt Hobs Ventnor Arts Club 32
19:00–20:00 Tom Ballard: BE FUNNY CHALLENGE (IMPOSSIBLE) (WIP) Ingrams Yard 34
19:30–20:30 Glenn Moore (Work in Progress) Bosco Theatre 34
19:30–21:30 Everything's been returned that was owed St.
The Night Baker Ingrams Yard 20
21:30–23:00 Tom Gamble Ventnor Arts Club 44
21:30–23:00 Pick of the Fringe Bosco Theatre 25
10:30–17:00 LOOK UP – ART FOR THE OFFLINE MIND
DAILY LISTINGS SUNDAY 26 th JULY
Special Thanks
We always have so many people to thank that make 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, production crew, bar teams, the Ventnor Exchange staff, all our contractors, our sponsors and supporters, the Culture 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 so we hope you enjoy being a part of it.
This programme is dedicated to: Stephen Cronk
Much loved and gone too soon. 'Fringe Dad' whose positivity will stay with us forever.
Marri Carmichael
Storyteller extraordinaire, longstanding writers group member and beloved supporter of all of our endeavours.
