Ventnor Fringe Printed Programme 2023

Welcome to

Ventnor Fringe is back! This year with over 100 different ticketed shows listed in this programme, and more than 100 more taking part in the ‘Free Fringe’ making it our largest line up to date, with artists travelling from as far afi eld as Australia, Japan, Colombia and Mexico to take part.

For 10 days the town transforms to host the Island’s largest arts programme, spanning comedy to cabaret, circus to concerts, in venues that include ancient churches, a shipping container and even locals’ front rooms!

At the Fringe, all artforms are welcome and performers at all stages of their career rub shoulders together, test new material and

hone 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 originally 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 which keeps to our roots, reinvesting any profi ts from every ticket and drink sold into local creative projects and our work with young people. In the past year alone we’ve provided opportunities for over 350 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, we hope you have a wonderful Fringe!

How to

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 The Nest.

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. 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

Culture / Unlimited Pass

2FOR1 ticket offer

If you’re going to see a lot of shows at the Festival it might be worth becoming a Culture or Unlimited Pass holder. Culture Pass costs £29.99 and gets you access to loads of 2for1 ticket deals. It also means you can get the same 2 for the price of 1 deal on shows at Ventnor Exchange all year. Bargain! Unlimited Pass is £9.99 per month and has all the same benefi ts plus all events organised by Ventnor Exchange throughout the year are FREE!

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. Lots of shops,

Listen to our Podcast

In the lead up to the event we’ll be releasing a new ‘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

There is no 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/ Unlimited Pass or concessionary ticket. All bookings are subject to our full Terms & Conditions which are available on our website.

Ticket Changes

Tickets can be changed for a different date of the same show* but this will incur a £1 cost per ticket. This can only be done over the phone or in person at Ventnor Exchange or Parkside Box Offi ce. *Subject to availability.

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. There are no booking fees at the Fringe!

In Person

Visit Ventnor Exchange, 11 Church Street, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1SW. Open from 10:00–23:00 during the Festival.

Phone 01983 716767

Online vfringe.co.uk

Makers’ Market St. Catherine’s Church

On Friday 21 st , Saturday 22 nd , Friday 28 th & Saturday 29 th 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!

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.

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, home to The Book Bus, housed in a beautiful 1930s Parisian bus, Darkfi eld’s ARCADE show which takes place in a converted shipping container, as well as an outdoor seating area and spoken word stage.

Church open for events

Fringe Square Open 10:00–21:00 Daily

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 more than 60 beers, fresh coffee and records spinning the perfect soundtrack in the evenings. Open 10:00–23:00.

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 four shows a day. With just 45 seats, shows here can sell out fast!

Open for events only

Boniface Studios

St. Catherine’s College, St. Boniface Road, PO38 1PN

This is a new theatre venue for this year year – two spaces, one a 100-seat hall and the other a 40-seat studio – for theatre, storytelling, spoken word, plus music and comedy.

Open for events only 11:00–18:00

Parkside Bar

Ventnor Park, Park Avenue, PO38 1LE

Whether you’re looking for a pre/ post show drink or just soaking up the atmosphere,our Parkside Bar is open to all.

Open 12:00–23:30

VENUES

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:

Big Top Bar

Flowers Brook, PO38 1LF

With stunning views out to sea, our new Big Top Bar sits right on the coastal path, the perfect pit stop between Ventnor Esplanade and the beautiful Steephill Cove.

Open 12:00–23:30

The Big Top

Flowers Brook, PO38 1LF

Just beyond the edge of Ventnor Park is Flowers Brook, a beautiful fi eld housing the Big Top, with stunning views out to sea and towards Ventnor Bay. Our largest venue, The Big Top is a versatile tent which will be adapted to host both standing gigs from acts like BC Camplight, Flamingods and the Ears Peeled Take Over, as well as seated theatre, comedy and cabaret with hit shows this year including Bromance, An Evening Without Kate Bush, Fabulous Follies and The Aretha Franklin Story.

Open for events only

The Magpie

The Putting Green, Park Avenue, PO38 1LE

Let’s Circus’s striking black and white tent has travelled to the Island each year since 2019. It’s become one of the most popular venues featuring many highlights of the festival, with a mix of stand up comedy, cabaret and theatre as well as family focussed circus.

Open for events only

The Nest

Ventnor Park, Park Avenue, PO38 1LE

The Nest is the place to see some of the most exciting new stand-ups on the circuit, with a whole selection of Edinburgh Previews from acts fresh from appearances on shows like Mock The Week, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Have I Got News For You. During the daytime this venue hosts a wide range of workshops and activities.

Open for events only

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 (2 steps at entrance)

Ventnor Arts Club (1 step at entrance and steps to toilets)

Some ‘pop up’ venues and private houses/studios

There is step-free access to all venues within the Fringe Village at Ventnor Park, but the pathway to The Big Top is quite steep. Photos and more information are available on our website: vfringe.co.uk

Personal Assistants

We’re happy to provide free tickets to registered personal assistants. Please let us know when you book and we’ll issue a complimentary ticket.

for a wheelchair or feel you need to be on the front row to hear or see the performance we will have accessible spaces reserved for every venue.

Toilets

There are disabled toilets in the following locations:

Ventnor Park (for Magpie and The Nest)

Flowers Brook (for The Big Top)

St. Catherine’s Church

Boniface Studios (St. Catherines College)

Central Carpark public toilets

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

Sometimes the best things in life are free – alongside the main programme of ticketed events, there is a huge amount of free things to see and do at Ventnor Fringe. Here’s just a selection of what’s on offer…

The Fringe Square

There will be music, poetry and storytelling here, The Square will be open daily from 10:00–21:00.

See the full daily lineup on our website plus more will be added in the lead up!

TAROO

where: Ventnor Harbour/ Ventnor Esplanade when: Fri 21st | 14:15 & 17:00

This year’s festival will be launched with a free performance on Ventnor Esplanade!

Taroo is a Parkour and circus comedy show telling stories from streets all over the world. With a fusion of acrobatics, Chinese pole and urban street moves. Performed and created by Moroccan circus artist Said Mouhssine – a free runner, stage director, actor and stuntman and featuring local young people in a special collaboration with Sasha Biloshisky’s Funk Format.

Produced by: Crying Out Loud

The Fringe Village

There are performances daily at The Bandstand for all to enjoy. Catch music, poetry, performance and storytelling from 12:00–17:00.

vfringe.co.uk/whats-on

The Book Bus

Located in the Fringe Square in front of St. Catherine’s Church is the Book Bus. A beautiful 1930s Parisian bus transformed into the perfect bookshop. Featuring buskers and poets each day including a children’s storytelling hour at 11:00. Check the website for events at The Book Bus.

Open Sat 22 nd –Fri 28 th 10:00–18:00

Pop-Ups

Many businesses in the town will have ‘popup’ performances and exhibitions. Venues include: Better Days Cafe, Blue Labelle, The Athanor, Reggies Retro, Carnaby’s Cafe, The Crab & Lobster, The Legion, The Blenheim, Lesley’s Nutshell, Something for the Weekend Barbers, Ventnor Social Club and the Library. Check out vfringe.co.uk/whats-on to find out what’s on and when.

Street Food

Feeling peckish? This year the Fringe Village in Ventnor Park will be home to a selection of the Island’s finest street food offerings. From Gastronomy’s Bao Buns, to Aioli Fries from Harbour Kitchen and artisan coffee from Drew’s Brews. Evolving throughout the 10 days of the Festival with different traders be sure to visit on multiple days to see what’s on offer!

On the Putting Greens T In the Park cafe hut run by Jackie and the team will also be open during the whole Fringe, serving hot dogs, burgers, sausage rolls, cakes, ice creams and teas and coffees – great for pre-show snacks.

VISUAL ARTS

Art_house_life @ 35 Madeira Road ALBEDO MARZ

Opening this year over 2 floors with a tour of recent artworks by albedo marz exclusively for Ventnor Fringe’23. Large-scale immersive encounters from a broken world accommodate geography & psyche, history & science, myth & storytelling – bringing together that which does not yet exist with that which no longer exists. Book in advance.

WHEN: Fri 21st – Sun 30 th | 11:00–13:00 & 14:30–16:30

WHERE: 35 Madeira Road PO38 1QS

Ventnor Artists Collective SUMMER EXHIBITION 2023

TICKETS: FREE (pre book)

Ventnor Artists Collective is a group of local artists who work in a variety of styles and media; including painting, ceramics, digital images, jewellery, mixed media and lino printing. Something for everyone. FREE (But must pay entry to garden)

WHEN: Fri 21st – Sun 30 th 10:00–16:00

WHERE: The Canna Room at Ventnor Botanic Garden

Jo Hummel

WISH YOU WERE HERE

TICKETS: FREE

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 spots to head to are the Rene Stage (half way down The Cascade), Spring Hill Garden (opposite Tesco), outside The Ventnor Heritage Centre, at The Book Bus and outside Co-op – artists are taking over the town!

Craft Beer + Cocktails

Bristol’s famous Wiper & True are back to bring the finest craft beer in the South West to our bars this year, along with local ales on draft. Check out the Parkside Bar, next to the Bandstand in Ventnor Park, for a drink with free live music every afternoon, the Big Top Bar at Flowersbrook for beautiful sea views with DJs and live events all week or Ventnor Exchange in the town centre for an epic list of 30+ beers to choose from!

Be sure to also check out The Noble Steed, our esteemed cocktail bar in the Fringe Village for a sneaky Negroni, Espresso Martini or Watermelon Daiquiri!

Ice cream colours, deck chair stripes, arcade polka dots and souvenir esque sculpture punctuate the gallery walls in this tongue in cheek exhibition curated by Jo Hummel. Told through the voices of 8 contemporary British Artists ‘Wish You Were Here’ mediates on the iconic Great British seaside holiday. Join us Sat 22nd 14:00 for the vernissage

WHEN: Sat 22nd – Sun 30 th

WHERE: Peer Studios, Pier Street, PO38 1SX

Sue Paraskeva A PORCELAIN PERFORMANCE

TICKETS: FREE

Sue Paraskeva will be presenting A Porcelain Performance in the Atrium at Binnel Studios, St Lawerence. This is a live performance art piece, accompanied by a minimalist soundtrack. Paraskeva will use her finely thrown and turned porcelain vessels, altering them dramatically in this short intuitive performance.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 17:00–17:20

WHERE: Binnel Studios, Old Park Rd, PO38 1XR

I.W.Venue Campaign OPERATION GERANIUM ART SHOW

TICKETS: FREE

Operation Geranium combined peddle power, plants, and Artist’s postcards, to re connect communities. Exiled Hospital Arts was recycled into 50 000 free postcards, distributed since 2020, by over 100 local businesses. The Art of today, you never knew existed, but really liked, has been posted. It has been, where no Isle Of Wight Art, has been before.

WHEN: Fri 21st–Sun 30 th | 10:00–16:00

WHERE: Better Days Café, 64 High St, PO38 1LT

TICKETS: FREE

VISUAL ARTS

Honeybourne Jewellery Ltd

‘FLIGHT’ A 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF HONEYBOURNE JEWELLERY

Established in 2003, the brand has flourished under the creative vision of RCA graduate Sophie Honeybourne. To mark this significant milestone, Sophie has meticulously crafted a collection of exquisite automated sculptures made from sterling silver and slate. These unique and exclusive designs will be unveiled at Flight; an intimate exhibition to be held at Honeybourne Jewellery, coinciding with this year’s Ventnor Fringe Festival.

WHEN: Fri 21st – Sat 22nd | 10:00–17:00

WHERE: Honeybourne Jewellery, 3 Church Street

TICKETS: FREE

Commissioned by Brave Island & The IW Creative Network

‘FIGURE STOPPED IN MOTION’ 2023

‘Figure stopped in motion’ is an 8ft sculpture constructed out of MDF wood using airbrush techniques. The artwork will be situated within the Fringe Village, enjoying and observing the activities around them. Izzy Kori is a fine art student from the Isle of Wight, studying at Ruskin School of Art, University of Oxford.

WHEN: Fri 21st–Sun 30 th

WHERE: The Fringe Village

Gianpaolo Mario Photography GIANPAOLO MARIO PHOTO GALLERY

TICKETS: FREE

PERFORMING ARTS

DARKFIELD ARCADE

The latest immersive audio experience from DARKFIELD. Using the nostalgic 8-bit aesthetic of 1980’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.

WHEN: Fri 21st – Sun 30 th | 13:00–20:45 ( Every 45 mins)

WHERE: The Fringe Square

Impromptu Shakespeare IMPROMPTU SHAKESPEARE

TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25

Sad that Shakespeare hasn’t written anything new for over 400 years? Well, 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. “Shakespeare from the hip. Ingenious and very funny” – Will Gompertz, BBC Arts Editor.

WHEN: Fri 21st , Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Yet To Be FREE WILL & OTHER MYTHS

Gianpaolo is a photographic artist from the Isle of Wight and has lived in Ventnor for more than thirty years. He has a passion for creativity and quality, inspired by his surroundings; nature; the sea and his family. His style, compositions, attention to detail and use of colour make his images so unique and striking.

WHEN: Fri 21st–Sun 30 th | 10:00–15:00

WHERE: Park View (Opposite Ventnor Park) PO38 1LE

Teresa Grimaldi and Sarah Vardy OLIVIA

TICKETS: FREE

A site-specific installation, located in a public shelter by Myrtle Bay. The work re-tells the extraordinary life of Miss Parkes, who lived for almost 40 years in a dilapidated boathouse held up by stilts. Using animated micro ‘vignettes’ within a replica wooden model boathouse, accompanied by audio recordings of Ventnorians who remember her. Launch Tue 25th : 18:00

WHEN: Tue 25th–Sun 30 th | 14:00–19:00 (Sun 11:00–15:00)

WHERE: La Falaise Carpark Shelter

TICKETS: FREE

a new online platform for young people on the Isle of Wight who are interested in the arts and creative industries. It’s totally free to use, with new opportunities to get involved, learn new skills, get tickets to events or paid jobs and commissions every week

Sign up and find opportunities at braveisland.uk

TICKETS: £15 | £12 u25

Marina and Charlie want to take you on a journey. A Journey of stories and choices. The choices we think we have, and we think we make. And if we actually make any choices that matter at all. Sometimes epic, sometimes silly, sometimes loud and sometimes quiet, Yet To Be invite you to Free Will and Other Myths.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 17:00–18:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Curtain Call Creative BIG TOP BROADWAY

TICKETS: £12 £8 u25

The talented students of Curtain Call Creative present Big Top Broadway, produced with a Live Band the islands most talented Musical theatre Students showcase some of the most popular and well loved songs from the musicals. The show will feature solos, duets, group pieces all presented in the Big Top.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 16:00–17:30

WHERE: The Big Top

Helena Isabelle Biggs

SO YOU SEE

TICKETS: £12 £10 u25

A short film and live performance. Music, danceand spokenword. Part documentary, part drama. A trip down memory lane and landing in a garden. A culmination of spoken word, picture and music, bringing pieces of a puzzle.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 18:00–19:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

TICKETS: £12

PERFORMING ARTS

Rob Thompson

PIANO SMASHERS

An ageing, much loved, piano is left in a will to the younger relatives. They don’t want it, it is a burden, but try as they might to rid themselves of it, they are bound by a sense of ‘something’ to keep it. Will they ever work out what that ‘something’ is? Think Waiting For Godot with a piano. This work in progress (WIP) is the second original piece from theatre maker Rob Thompson since returning to theatre making in 2023.

WHEN: Tue 25th–Sun 30th | 11:00–11:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

Barely Methodical Troupe BROMANCE

TICKETS: £8 | FREE u25

Angus Baskerville MIND TRICKERY

PERFORMING ARTS

Angus Baskerville is a professional magician and member of The Magic Circle and this is his third appearance at Ventnor Fringe. His new show, “Mind Trickery”, brings to Ventnor truly world class magic and mind reading. This show is suitable for anyone who loves to experience mind-blowing magic and jaw dropping illusions!

WHEN: Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 11:00–12:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

HangDog M U S I C

International award winning smash hit BROMANCE is five star circus about camaraderie and affection. Audacious, touching, exhilarating tour-de-force of physical heroics where handshakes become handstands and backslaps become backflips.

Among the UKs hottest circus companies Barely Methodical Troupe create shows that mix the showstopping acrobatics of circus with the emotional punch of theatre.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 16:00– 17:00

WHERE: The Big Top

David Head & Matt Glover UNWANTED OBJECTS

TICKETS: £20 | £15 u25

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

Dave is house band / receptionist at streaming service Stripefy, but he wants more: he dreams of going full-time on reception. Join Dave as he accidentally swallows the Stripefy algorithm and becomes a global megastar. Temporarily.

WHEN: Wed 26th & Thurs 27th | 13:00–14:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Untied Artists THE HEAD GARDENER

Old teddy bears, abandoned chess sets and ships-in-bottles. Every item in this mysterious secondhand shop has a tale worth telling… Unwanted Objects is a storytelling theatre show from duo David Head & Matt Glover. A magical exploration of sentimentality, our possessions and the meaning we attach to them.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Fabulous Follies Production FABULOUS FOLLIES

TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25

TICKETS: £12 £8 u25

Jake and Warren Oldershaw are born and bred West Wighters. While Jake made a career out of ’showing off’ on that gurt mainland, Warren ended up with a proper job, designing gardens Island-wide. Personal tales of why gardening is so important for mental health; design a beautiful garden; share fascinating stories of gardens, plants and species.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Reptilian Productions Ltd THE CROCODILE OF OLD KANG POW

With HoliDolores as your guide, you’ll get to explore the world of Contemporary Circus through the lens of the familiar - fabrics, juggling, and free body acrobatics – and the unusual – Perch, cloudswing, Korean cradle, and hair hanging. Come immerse yourself in a dreamlike, surreal atmosphere.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 19:00–20:00

WHERE: The Big Top

John Mackay / Password Productions Ltd AN EVENING WITHOUT KATE BUSH

TICKETS: £20 | £15 u25

TICKETS: £12 £10 u25

The Crocodile of Old Kang Pow is a compelling story told with an intoxicating blend of musical styles, set against the fetid backdrop of 18th Century Paris. Utilising mythology, puppetry, profanity, opera, gospel, humour, irreverence, magical elixirs & high art with low morals. the show weaves an elaborate, hallucinatory and utterly engaging cautionary tale.

WHEN: Thu 27th , Fri 28th & Sat 29 th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Night Owl Shows THE ARETHA FRANKLIN STORY

Howl with the Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights! She’s not there - but you are. Whether you’ve been a fan for decades or recently joined the shoal, there has never been a better time to release your inner Bush and celebrate at this joyful, unique and mind-blowing show.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 21:00–23:00

WHERE: The Big Top

TICKETS: £20

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

Award-winning show taking you on a journey through the life and music of Aretha Franklin, the most charted female of the 21st century, with high energy versions of Think, Natural Woman and R.E.S.P.E.C.T, Brought to you by Cleopatra Higgins of 90’s hit band Cleopatra US & UK top 5 hits, endorsed by Madonna, Tom Jones and Will.i.am)

WHEN: Fri 28th, Sat 29th & Sun 30th | 15:00–17:00

WHERE: The Big Top

TICKETS: £20

PERFORMING ARTS

Tide Nor Time Players THE MOLLY DOWNER MUSICAL

The Molly Downer Musical tells the story of a young woman’s struggle to find her place in a world that was openly hostile to her very existence. Based on the Isle of Wight story of the last Island witch, this production holds a light up to the injustices towards the LGBTQIA+ community, then and now. A wholly Island production.

WHEN: Fri 28th , Sat 29 th , Sun 30 th | 12:30–14:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Ana Carolina Borges LETTERS TO MY DEAD MOTHER

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

Cheeky & Daiki WITTY LOOK

FAMILY FRIENDLY

The mischievous Cheeky snuck into the big top one night, where she met the circus fairy who introduced her to the wonders of the circus world. However, the good times couldn’t last forever…A brand new circus show from award-winning Japanese duo Witty Look, whose on-stage characters jump right out of the world of manga and cartoons!

WHEN: Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd | 14:30–15:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Let’s Circus!

HAPPY DAZE

Grief is always a good subject to avoid. Want to kill the mood? Ruin someone’s day? Start rabbiting on about grief. But... in this deeply funny, heart-breaking autobiographical show, Ana unapologetically puts hers on stage. Most people feel like a burden when talking about their loss. Not Ana. She dresses it up in sequins. And she promises you a good time...

WHEN: Sat 29 th & Sun 30 th | 13:30–14:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

Stratford Productions MACREADY! DICKENS’ THEATRICAL FRIEND

This compelling show - performed by Mark Stratford - tells the story of the great Victorian actor, Macready - the man to whom Charles Dickens dedicated ‘Nicholas Nickleby.’ A universal tale of love, ambition and sacrifice, it is one of the most remarkable ever to come out of the theatre.

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 17:00–18:00

WHERE: BONIFACE STUDIOS (HALL)

Quantum Theatre A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

TICKETS: £10 | £5 u25

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. Quantum’s enchanting new production will have you spellbound so grab a picnic and a blanket and join in the fairy fun and frolics.

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 15:00–16:30

WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden (Top Lawn)

Jean G-Owen, Naked Figleaf Collective

FIGGY GIG

TICKETS: £12

Fresh from a successful first season of shows in West Wight, Naked Figleaf Collective brings the Figgy Gig to Ventnor Fringe. Host Jean G-Owen presents a troupe of IOW performers with slapstick sketches, witty songs, comic poetry, and three crones with enough hagitude to have you chortling in your seats.

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

TICKETS: £10

TICKETS: £15

Come and experience a circus spectacular from Let’s Circus! Witness feats of skill, strength and awe, in a feel good cabaret to feed the soul. The international cast returns with both familiar and new faces (Including a certain balloon act) in a brand new show!

Two time Ventnor Fringe Audience Choice Award Nominees

WHEN: Wed 26th Thu 27th Fri 28th, Sat 29 th | 14:30–15:30 (+ 19:30 Sat)

WHERE: The Magpie

Horse Box Theatre LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER

TICKETS: £18 | £15 u25

Inspired by the debut children’s book by illustrator Zoe Sadler, The Lighthouse Keeper fuses clowning, circus, comedy, and theatre in this quirky show that the whole family will enjoy. This is the tale of a Lighthouse Keeper who isn’t very good at his job and a fisherman who is lost at sea in his tiny boat sailing perilously close to the rocks.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 11:00–12:00

WHERE: The Magpie

Quantum Theatre WIND IN THE WILLOWS

TICKETS: £6 | £5 u25

“Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats…” Join Mole, Ratty and Badger on their mad-cap adventures in Quantum Theatre’s heart-warming new adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s family favourite.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 13:00–14:40

WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden (Top Lawn)

TICKETS: £15 | £12.50 u25

Sue Bailey ONE SOCK: A STORYTELLING RIDDLE FILLED SOCK HUNT

How many odd socks are there in your house? In Sue-the-storyteller’s house there seem to be dozens. She’s on the hunt for some pairs. Can you help her find them? You’ll need sharp eyes and keen ears as there might be some clues in the stories she tells as you search along the coastal paths for the missing socks. If you succeed in finding all the socks, you will be a sockdologer – an outstanding person!

WHEN: Sat 29th & Sun 30th | 12:00–13:00

WHERE: Ventnor Town Council

TICKETS: £6

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Darryl J. Carrington presents OUT OF THE BOX

Out of the Box is a show of ever-raising stakes. Impossible, implausible situations and a constant battle with physics are resolved in a finale that’ll have the audience feeling like they just witnessed the underdog substitute score the winning goal. A unique blend of world-class juggling, high-skill manipulation and original, TIkTOk trick shots.

WHEN: Fri 28th , Sat 29 th & Sun 30 th | 11:00–12:00

WHERE: The Big Top

SESKA SESKA - COOKING UP FUN

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

COMEDY & CABARET

Benji Waterstones YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE MAD TO WORK HERE

NHS psychiatrist, award-winning comedian and writer Benji Waterstones previews his show ahead of the Edinburgh Festival. Expect a fly on the padded-wall account of the mental health world that also busts some myths (e.g. there are no padded walls). Soon to be a Penguin-published book. Directed by Edinburgh Comedy Award Winner Jordan Brookes.

WHEN: Fri 21st & Sat 22nd | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Horse Box Theatre

BOB: THE HALF A SAUSAGE MUSICAL

Crazier than finding a penguin in your fridge, turbo-charged Seska throws buckets of happiness into the air in this brilliantly inventive magic show for all ages. Don’t miss it! WINNER – Spirit of Fringe Award: Colchester Fringe 2022. “one of the best comedy magicians entertaining families in the UK.” London Evening Standard

WHEN: Sat 29 th & Sun 30 th | 12:00–13:00

WHERE: The Nest

Quantum Theatre

TICKETS: £8

THE TALES OF PETER RABBIT & BENJAMIN BUNNY

Quantum Theatre are back with their enchanting new adaptation of two of Beatrix Potter’s best-loved Tales, The Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny. Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin know very well that they are not to go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but they cannot resist and soon they find themselves in all sorts of scrapes.

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 15:00–16:30

WHERE: Ventnor Botanic Garden (Top Lawn)

Slapstick Picnic PETER PAN

TICKETS: £12

Let your imagination soar as we dish out this timeless tale of hapless pirates, feral children and a particularly punctual reptile. This show isn’t just for kids, our brilliant buffoonery will have picnickers of all ages cackling into their coleslaw. Trust us, this is one flight of fancy you don’t want to miss.

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 14:30–16:00 & 19:30–21:00

WHERE: The Magpie

Ventnor Fringe in support of St Catherine’s School ST CATHERINE’S GIGANTIC GALA

TICKETS: £12

A family friendly extravaganza featuring artists from across the festival in a special variety show. This is a relaxed performance with a non-judgemental environment which may be particularly suited to adults or children with learning difficulties, autism or other sensory needs. Proceeds from this event will be donated to St Catherine’s School.

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Magpie

TICKETS: PAY WHAT YOU CAN

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

After the Ventnor Fringe award-winning show ‘People’s Republic of the Isle of Wight’ in 2021 and last year’s highly successful run of ‘Born to be the Weather Wizard’, Joe Plumb is back with a bonkers new show for 2023! This time it is bigger, better and more Isle of Wight than ever before with an all-singing, all-dancing, musical half a sausage spectacular…

WHEN: Fri 21st | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Ginny Lemon

GINNY LEMON’S PICK ‘N’ MIX

TICKETS: £15

Fancy a sliiice!? Ginny Lemon is hitting Ventnor with their fun filled pick 'n' mix show! Ginny Lemon is midlands based singer-songwriter, improvisational comedienne, TV personality, character actor and spiritualist. Their work explores the intersections of their working class identity, queerness, disability and taking the piss.

WHEN: Fri 21st | 21:15–22:15

WHERE: The Magpie

Elsie Diamond and Belinda Williams

SHOW:GIRLS

TICKETS: £20

After an administrative error double-books Opera Diva Belinda and Burlesquer Showgirl Elsie, they must find a way to share the stage. With gorgeous costumes, opera bangers, audience interaction and striptease, this is a fun and flirty exploration of being a woman in the spotlight.

WHEN: Fri 21st | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

Avalon

TICKETS: £12

VITTORIO ANGELONE: WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? I AM! (WIP)

Fresh off of a sold out fringe run, Best Newcomer Nominee 2022 Vittorio Angelone presents a work in progress version of his 2023 show with the provisional title: Who Do You Think You Are? I Am! It’ll be about perception and identity and insecurity and words. Loads of stuff about words. Mostly because every joke is about words and he hasn’t written the stuff yet and is trying not to lie, but some excellent ideas are cooking!

WHEN: Fri 21st| 22:00–23:00

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

COMEDY & CABARET

Donna Jones MBE and Joan Ellis

LAUGHING IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY

LAUGHING IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY Acclaimed writers, Donna Jones MBE and Joan Ellis, create double trouble with their unique take on love, life and loss. ‘Furiously fabulous’ Ventnor Fringe ‘Funny yet poignant’ Mere Festival

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 15:30–16:30

WHERE: Boniface Studio (Studio)

Sophie Chapman Talent

TICKETS: £12

GEOFF NORCOTT: WORK IN PROGRESS

Geoff Norcott is working up his fifth national tour show, following on the back of ‘Conswervative’, ‘Traditionalism’, ‘Taking Liberties’ and ‘I Blame The Parents’. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Geoff out on the road trying out brand-new material, ahead of it’s Edinburgh run.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Jack’s Comedy Club

TICKETS: £15

JACK’S COMEDY CLUB AT VENTNOR FRINGE

Jack’s Comedy Club at the Ventnor Fringe! Headlining the show is Paul McCaffrey as seen on the TV Shows Impractical Jokers UK, Live at the Apollo & Russell Howard’s Good News! Supporting acts include Andrew White, Abbie Edwards & Nick Everritt & the event will be hosted by resident compare Jack Clay.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 19:30–21:00

WHERE: The Nest

Ventnor Fringe THE BIG FRINGE VARIETY SHOW

COMEDY & CABARET

Adele Cliff

ADELE CLIFF CAN BREAK YOUR ARM (WIP)

Adele previews her new show; with talk or animals, danger and the outdoors! Leicester Comedy Festival Best New Show nominee (2023). Pegasus Comedy Best Show (2022). ave’s Funniest Jokes of the Fringe (2019, 2018, 2017, 2016).

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 15:30–16:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (The Studio)

Avalon

HEIDI REGAN: WORK IN PROGRESS

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

Come join me for a work in progress of my new show “Finding An Inner Peace That All Your Friends Will Envy”. This is a show about Santa, the Matrix, my patient wife... and other fictional concepts, heyooo! No, seriously she is a wonderful person. Winner of the BBC New Comedy Award (me, not my wife)

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

Avalon

TICKETS: £15 | £12 u25

Back for a third year running to delight, amuse and possibly confuse...in the best way possible of course. We have the vibrant Ginny Lemon hosting this mixed bill of comedy, cabaret, burlesque and more! Expect laughs, games, teases and a good ol ‘sing along. Full Lineup will be announced very soon. This show sells out so grab tickets quick!

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 21:15–23:00

WHERE: The Magpie

Holly Delefortrie

SEX-ED REVISITED

TICKETS: £15

Sex-Ed Revisited is a ***** interactive comedy uncovering missing gaps in knowledge when it comes to female-focused Sex Education and our relationship with pleasure. Created and performed by interactive solo artist and comedian Holly Delefortrie. This quest for climax takes audiences on a Kylie-inspired sex-pop adventure.

WHEN: Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd 22:00–23:00

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25

TICKETS: £12

THE ROB AUTON SHOW (WORK IN PROGRESS)

After writing nine comedy shows on themes such as the colour yellow, the sky, faces, water, sleep, hair, talking, time and crowds, Rob Auton uses his tenth show to examine himself in ‘The Rob Auton Show’.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

Quivers EAT, SLAY, LOVE – A QUIVERS STAND UP SHOW

When it seems everyone around you is managing their journey of becoming a fully functioning human person, with responsibilities and kids and meal prepping and matching socks, where does someone who can barely remember to tie their laces find their place in it all?

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Avalon

GLENN MOORE: WORK IN PROGRESS

TICKETS: £12 £10 u25

Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Glenn Moore is a comedian, actor and one of the best and most prolific joke writers in the country. Glenn’s 2022 Fringe show sold out with rave five star reviews from The Mail on Sunday, Chortle and The Courier, amongst a number of other publications.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

COMEDY & CABARET

Ventnor Exchange

OLD AGED PUPPETS

What happens to puppets when they retire? When you start to forget your lines and bits stop working or start falling off?! This gang of senior figurines have got a lot to say about it all and refuse to stay still and keep silent. Reminisce, sing, gasp and cheer in a cabaret quite unlike any you’ve seen before. A hilarious celebration of older age.

WHEN: Tue 25th & Wed 26th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Avalon

HUGE DAVIES: WHODUNNIT (WIP)

TICKETS: £15 | £10 u25

Avalon LUKE

COMEDY & CABARET

KEMPNER: WORK IN PROGRESS

Star of Spitting Image, Steph’s Packed Lunch and with over 10 million views of his online videos, Luke is one of the UK’s hottest mimics and stand-up comics. Don’t miss this remarkable one-man show from one of Britain’s most exciting, new comedy talents. **** The Daily Telegraph

WHEN: Wed 26th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

Edinburgh Newcomer Award nominee Huge Davies (Cats Does Countdown and Roast Battle), returns with his highly anticipated second show about murder. Wearable keyboard? Check! Deadpan delivery? Check! Jokes about murder? Read the first sentence. No.1 show in Time Out London. Creator and star of Channel 4 sitcom The Artists.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

Individual Artist Management

OLGA KOCH:

PRAWN COCKTAIL (WIP)

TICKETS: £12

SOPHIE DUKER: WORK IN PROGRESS

Duker’s in town to tell jokes, break hearts and marinate her new show. Not getting a ticket for this would be silly. As seen on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (Channel 4), 8 Out of 10 Cats (E4), Mock the Week (BBC2), Don’t hate the Playaz (ITV2), Frankie Boyle’s New World Order (BBC2) and Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club (ITV).

WHEN: Wed 26th | 21:15–22:15

WHERE: The Magpie

JOE WELLS: KING OF THE AUTISTICS

Olga Koch turned 30, got a master’s degree, went on an adult gap year, got salmonella, lost herself, found herself and washed it all down with a delicious prawn cocktail. Think less Eat Pray Love and more Shake Scream Cry. As seen on Mock the Week, QI, Late Night Mash, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and her Amazon Prime comedy special.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 21:15–22:15

WHERE: The Magpie

Individual Artist Management

TICKETS: £15

HELEN BAUER: GRAND SUPREME DARLING PRINCESS (WIP)

Star of Live at the Apollo, Late Night Mash and Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee, brings a show all about the women in her life, from her mother to her best friend and that one girl who was mean in 2008. Oh, and Disney Princesses, obvs. Co-host of the smash-hit podcast Trusty Hogs.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 22:00–23:00

WHERE: The Nest

Avalon

TICKETS: £12

ANIA MAGLIANO: WORK IN PROGRESS

Roll up, roll up, and hear the new jokes, thoughts and general chat from Ania Magliano. There will be some good jokes, some bad jokes, and some secrets she accidentally says on stage to fill the silence.

‘Will have you crying with laughter ’ **** Guardian

WHEN: Wed 26th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

TICKETS: £15

Rise up against your neurotypical overlords! ‘One of my favourite comics’ (Frankie Boyle). ‘Some of the most surprising and thought-provoking material coming from any comedian’ (Guardian). Over 3.5m views online for his video ‘Having a nonautistic brother’. As seen on BBC2, BBC3, C4 and Dave.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 22:00–23:00

WHERE: T he Nest

Amelia Jane Hunter

EXQUISITE PERVERT

TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25

Chartering the span of freedom and unstoppable adventures of a fifty year old woman chasing the perfect lighting; Exquisite Pervert is a comedy cabaret inspired by the bullet ridden basements of Berlin and one woman’s quest to reignite the power and purpose of love.

WHEN: Thu 27th & Fri 28th | 18:00–19:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Mr. Thing THE MR. THING SHOW

TICKETS: £12 £8 u25

Become part of the studio audience as Tom and Owen, Puppet Steve and a crew of Things pull together a live TV show every night – broadcasting nowhere to nobody. Crammed full of live music, surprise guests, silly videos, daft games, catchy jingles and grumpy puppets all held together through real time, technical hi-jinx.

WHEN: Thu 27th , Fri 28th & Sat 29 th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: T he Magpie

TICKETS: £15

Joe Wells

Avalon

COMEDY & CABARET

Josh Baulf

JOSH BAULF: BULLDOG

‘’Bulldog’ is the hilarious new show from one of the UK’s fastest rising stars. Josh Baulf has recently appeared on ITV, BBC and his online sketches has amassed millions of views worldwide. ‘A very funny man’ (David Walliams) ‘A cross between Micky Flanagan and Russell Howard’ (Chortle)

WHEN: Thurs 27th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

Drunk Women Solving Crime

DRUNK WOMEN SOLVING CRIME

TICKETS: £8

COMEDY & CABARET

Garrett Millerick

NEVER HAD IT

SO GOOD

I’m sick of everyone moaning all the time, so I’ve written a show about how bloody great everything is. I haven’t actually written it at the time of going to print and in previous years I’ve made all sorts of promises in the blurb. Not going to fall into that trap again! But look, I’m going to put a real shift in for you guys, you’ll get value for money.

WHEN: Fri 28th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

Ventnor Fringe

PICK OF THE FRINGE

Local Ventnor girl Hannah George brings her chart topping podcast Drunk Women Solving Crime to Ventnor for a live recording! With millions of downloads, sold out runs at Edinburgh Festival and a monthly London residency, don't miss your chance to see the Drunk Women on the Island! ‘Thoroughly entertaining - the Guardian.

WHEN: Thu 27th | 21:15–22:15

WHERE: The Magpie

Produced by Avani Films ANU VAIDYANATHAN: BLIMP

TICKETS: £15 | £12 u25

A comic tale of a full-time mom with part-time attempts at sanity, sewing and show business. Produced by Avani Films.

WHEN: Thu 27th | 22:00–23:00

WHERE: The Nest

Rachel Attwood WACK!

TICKETS: £6 | £5 u25

Introducing, Wack! A stand up show for people with naughty humour who just want to have fun.Written and starting Rachel Attwood, Wack! is the perfect laugh out loud reaction to life and all it can throw at you. Ranging from that teacher you always hated to Friends that really need to stop talking.

WHEN: Fri 28th | 13:30–14:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

Freya Parker

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

IT AIN’T EASY BEING CHEEKY - WORK IN PROGRESS

Are you a little cheeky guy? Interested in the lifestyle? Come and join Freya as she navigates the struggles of trying to remain cheeky when it’s raining trauma. From 50% of sketch duo Lazy Susan comes a 100% debut hour of stand-up. Hot topics to include death, bread and the joy of waving. It’s hehehehe o’clock!

WHEN: Fri 28th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £10

TICKETS: £12

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 double Edinburgh Comedy Award Nominee Ahir Shah (Live at the Apollo, The Mash Report, BBC 2).

WHEN: Fri 28th & Sat 29 th | 21:15–23:00

WHERE: The Magpie

Jacob Hawley

JACOB

HAWLEY (WORK IN PROGRESS)

TICKETS: £15

Jacob Hawley is a SILVER ARIA Winner, has been recommended by the British Comedy Guide for producing ‘an impeccable hour of man and mic stand up’, has been awarded 4 stars by The Sunday Post, The List and more, as well as owning a mug stating he’s the ‘Best Dad Ever’.

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

Ben Ashurst

TICKETS: £12

THREE CHEESE STRAWS FOR A POUND

Ben Ashurst is struggling. Now nearly 30, he should be getting his act together, but it’s hard when the world doesn’t make any sense. This warm, light- hearted stand-up comedy show hilariously highlights the things in life that Ben thinks should be simple... but aren’t. Whatever happens, we can laugh about it over some cheesy baked goods

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 18:00–19:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Ahir Shah

AHIR SHAH: ENDS

TICKETS: PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Ahir Shah returns for his first solo show since 2019’s Dots (now a special on HBO Max). This one’s about family, immigration, marriage, history, politics and beans. As seen on Mock the Week, The Mash Report, QI, Live at the Apollo, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Have I Got News For You.

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 19:30–20:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

COMEDY & CABARET KIZZA KIZZA - JIGGY YAK FIGGY YAK

Get set for a frantic funny rollercoaster ride from the award-winning comedy magician KIZZA. Absurdly chaotic magical disasters, incredibly stupid mindreading routines and big big laughs guaranteed. WINNER: Spirit of the Fringe AwardColchester Fringe 2022. WINNER: Best New Act - Bucharest Comedy Festival 2021

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 22:00–23:00

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £10 | £5 u25

SARA BARRON: WHY AM I MEAN TO MY MOM? (WIP)

Sara talks through a passion for eavesdropping, a hatred of the countryside, and also this one awful thing that she did to her very own mom. Sara Barron is one of the fastest-rising comedians of her generation. Since her 2018 debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, she’s starred on shows including Live at the Apollo (BBC), Would I Lie to You? (BBC)

WHEN: Sun 30 th | 19:30–20:30 WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12

Isle of Wight Gin Company THE HISTORY OF GIN AND LITERATURE

An Evening Of Gin And Literature. An amusing walk through the history of gin and gins appearance in literature by the worlds greatest authors. All accompanied by a chance to taste the original Jenever and four gins from The Isle of Wight Gin Company. FIVE Gins and a whole lot of Hilarious History!

WHEN: Fri 21st & Sat 22nd | 18:00–19:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

SPOKEN WORD, WALKS & TALKS

Andrew Butcher FAKE IT TILL YOU BREAK IT!

When you’ve been pretending for so long, how do you know where your cheekbones end and the mask begins? An exploration of our insecurities and the lengths we go to hide them. Featuring storytelling, crazy characters, spoken word, and the world’s most epic wrestling match!

WHEN: Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Ventnor Exchange Spoken Word Collective ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

TICKETS: £10

VENT VENT SPOKEN AND WRITTEN WORD 2023

VENT Spoken and Written Word once more presents a mix of local, national and international writing and performance, this time in two larger venues: Ventnor Arts Club and Ventnor Library (plus Secret Location Closing Party). Web: siteventwrittenand spokenword.webador.com

WHEN: 22nd–25th July | See VENT websitefor times

WHERE: Ventnor Library & Ventnor Arts Club

TICKETS: FREE

Independent Arts THE DICKENS TRAIL AROUND BONCHURCH

Join the very popular guided walk discovering the forgotten history of Charles Dickens visit to Bonchurch in 1849. Sue Lowday will be sharing years of research into this unique period of time with quotations and illustrations to illuminate the walk. Suitable footwear recommended.

WHEN: Fri 21st | 14:00–16:30

WHERE: Bonchurch Pond

TICKETS: £15

Back for a third year, ‘The Ventnor Exchange Spoken Word Collective’ are proud to present ‘Enough is Enough’. Through the prism of Judge & Jury, we put humanity on trial, examining our impact on not only the planet’s ecosystem, but to each other as a shared humanity.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 17:30–18:30

WHERE: The Nest

OnTheWight and The Book Bus Presents... HOW TO SURVIVE THE APOCALYPSE

TICKETS: £8 | £5 u25

At last year’s sold-out Ventnor Fringe event, our expert panel of entrepreneurs, comedians and weirdos cracked ‘The Secret to Happiness’. But times are strange and storm clouds are gathering. From AI to climate change, and from toxic politics to unhinged billionaires, humanity has never felt so close to the edge.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Tony “Monty” Hirst UNFORESEEN CONSEQUENCES

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

Two farmers try to get the better of their neighbour, whilst a young prince accepts a challenge to win a beautiful princess. A childless old couple find themselves as parents, a blacksmith does a deal with a devil, and young man certainly knows how to use his head. What could possibly go wrong...?

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 17:00–18:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

Stokey Woodall STOKEY WOODALL’S SOLAR WALK

TICKETS: £8 | £5 u25

Why not let Stokey take you on a stroll through the solar system. The walk is laid out based on the 1,000-yard model, where one inch represents 100,000 miles. Part of the ticket fee we be donated to the Better Days Café. The Café a self-supporting and funded charity a valuable one for our local community in these uncertain times.

WHEN: Fri 21st – Sun 30 th | 13:00–15:00

WHERE: Better Days Café

TICKETS: £6 | £3 u25

Avalon

SPOKEN WORD, WALKS & TALKS

Ventnor Exchange FRINGE FORUM – CULTURAL CONFERENCE

The Fringe Forum is a mini cultural conference held at the mid point of the festival. Featuring industry panels, lively debates and lots of opportunities to meet new people. This is for everyone who cares about the role of culture in shaping our future together, and is open to both performers of any discipline and members of the public.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 10:00–16:30

WHERE: The Nest & The Magpie

TICKETS: FREE

Ben Murray-Homes THE BOY WHO HEADBUTTED THE SUN

There’s determination… then there’s headbutting the sun. Blending fantasy and reality, past and present, theatre and spoken word, ‘The Boy Who Headbutted The Sun’ is a show about the struggles of creativity, dashed dreams and the stories we tell ourselves as we stumble blindly into adulthood.

WHEN: Tue 25th , Wed 26th , Thu 27th & Fri 28th | 15:30–16:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

Luke Wright LUKE WRIGHT’S SILVER JUBILEE

TICKETS: £8 | £5 u25

Claire Speight BARE

SPOKEN WORD, WALKS & TALKS

Bare explores the journey of loss and grief through reflection and open vulnerability. Bare explores the journey of life and death through nature and our interaction within it. This is Claire Speight’s first one person show after performing for several years with Ventnor’s Spoken Word Collective.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 13:30–14:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

TICKETS: £8 £5 u25

Ventnor Heritage Centre/Medina Publishing VENTNOR CRADLE OF THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION WALK

The walk is led by Stephan Roman, author of the best selling book Isle and Empires : Romanov Russia, Britain and the Isle of Wight, together with Lesley Telford from the Ventnor Heritage Centre they will give a fascinating insight into the key role that Ventnor played in laying the foundations for the Russian Revolution of 1917.

WHEN: Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 14:30–16:30

WHERE: Ventnor Winter Gardens

LLL Productions POETRY IN BLACK & WHITE

Crack out the bunting! Someone you’ve barely heard of has been doing something you’re scarcely aware of for a reasonably long time. Award-winning poet Luke Wright tries to celebrate his 25 years of service on the literary frontline but ends up taking a deep dive into himself and the England that raised him.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 17:00–16:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

EEL Productions & Medina Bookshop

TICKETS: £15 | £10 u25

LINER NOTES: NICK DRAKE BOOK TALK WITH RICHARD JACK MORTON

For this exclusive Fringe event we invite Richard Jack Morton to discuss his brand new book on legendary folk singer Nick Drake. Paul Armfield of Medina Books will lead the discussion alongside archive of this elusive artist.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Daniel Morden

DARK TALES FROM THE WOODS

TICKETS: £12 | £3 u25

A hundred years ago the famous Welsh gypsy family the Woods told wild fairy tales around the fire- tales of shapeshifting and magic and drama and danger. Award-winning storyteller DANIEL MORDEN retells those thrilling tales with wit, passion and gusto. Hosted by the Island Storytellers and funded by an Arts Council National Lottery Project Grant.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 17:00-18:00

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Hall)

TICKETS: £10

TICKETS: £10 | £8 u25

A screening event at the intersection of contemporary poetry and film. In an informal conversational event we’ll present the outcome of 3 unique collaborations between award-winning poets and filmmakers.

WHEN: Thu 27th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

TisTales HERE BE GIANTS

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

The three Island storytellers, Holly Medland, Monty (Tony) Hirst and Sue Bailey, that comprise TisTales, tell larger than life stories about larger than life characters. Trolls, ogres, giants and gargantuan monsters, – all have a nightmarish place in the human psyche. Come and hear how the mighty are overcome.

WHEN: Fri 28th | 15:00–16:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Tim Cooper TIM COOPER PRESENTS MAWGIAS

TICKETS: £8 | £5 u25

Meet MAWGIAS - the next evolution of the MAMIL - the Middle Aged Man In Lycra. There’s no lycra here, more slick suits and city lights. What happens when all the super-powers of straight white male entitlement can’t save you from real life? Join us for an hour of standup, storytelling and straight up spoken word as we navigate a path from trauma

WHEN: Sat 29 th & Sun 30 th | 15:30–16:30

WHERE: Boniface Studio (Studio)

TICKETS: £12 £3 u25

MUSIC

Progressive Artists FLAMINGODS

Combining Eastern and African influences, Flamingods are international psych explorers and will be brining their unique sound to a special opening night concert in the Big Top. A ‘Pay What You Can’ event to kick off Ventnor Fringe in style!

WHEN: Fri 21st | 20:00–22:30

WHERE: T he Big Top

Annette Gregory BELIEVE TOUR 2023

TICKETS: Pay What You Can: £5/£8/£10/£15/£20/£25

Annette’s new tour for 2023 ‘Believe’. She’ll be bringing together original songs and sharing her musical heritage of reggae and soul music, giving some of her favourite songs a jazz feel, but still leaving room for those classic jazz standards.

WHEN: Fri 21st & Sat 22nd | 21:30–23:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

EarsPeeled

EARSPEELED: A DAY @ THE FRINGE V2

TICKETS: £15

MUSIC

Patience Wells and Hugh Wright PRESSING ON: SPIRITUAL SONGS TO INSPIRE

An evening of spiritual songs to inspire, first from local Christian singer-songwriter Patience Wells and her band. In a folk-pop style, she uses the voice of an angel to articulate spiritual themes. The second half, led by soon-to-retire Vicar Hugh Wright, showcases the Gospel songs of Bob Dylan His band includes Dick Taylor and Peter Banks.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 19:30–21:30

WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church

Laurie McVay and the High Rollers THE SOUL OF THE BLUES

TICKETS: £3 FREE u25

This year, we have a variety of artists performing. Some are travelling from far away and some are walking up the road! Headlining this years Day @ The Fringe is Coventry based Alt/Indie band FEET, alongside the likes of Fizzy Orange, Grandmas House, Froglands PK, and an array of Island talent that you all know and love. See you there!

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 14:00–23:00

WHERE: The Big Top

Ventnor Fringe SILENT DISCO

TICKETS: £20

Ventnor Fringe’s Silent Disco is back! Dance the night away with our famous Fringe parties on Friday & Saturday nights in the Big Top from 10.30pm after the evening’s gigs. Each night will see two DJ’s back to back playing simultaneously and competing for your ears, with headphones that allow you to switch between each DJ’s live set.

WHEN: Fri 21st & Sat 22nd , Fri 28th & Sat 29 th | 22:30–00:00

WHERE: The Big Top

Antidepressance presents MERIDIAN BEACH

TICKETS: £3 (On The Door)

Dear Someone, This is a set of washed up beach songs about someone else’s nostalgia for a time that might have been a dream. All performed by one person on guitar with various swirling effects and unassuming melancholia. Meridian Beach features songs influenced by Surf Rock, Trip Hop, Doo-Wop and Rebop. Some people like it.

WHEN: Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd | 13:30–14:30

WHERE: Boniface Studios (Studio)

TICKETS: £6 | £3 u25

This show will take audiences to a place where blues meets soul and jazz – to irresistible effect. Laurie McVay and the High Rollers take a fresh, vibrant approach to the music. Audiences may pick up on a range of echoes – such as Ray Charles and B.B.King – but the sound is totally modern, emotionally tuned to unleash the eternal ‘Soul of the Blues’.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 21:30–23:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Isle of Wight School of Comedy

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

PROFESSOR ELEMENTAL & BARON FORTITUDE: THE GLUTTON CLUB

A feast of fi ne chap hop, served with a side order of comedy and freestyle in plum sauce. Join them for a musical feast, dishing up a delicious blend of hip hop mixed with vintage jazz, and a large dollop of British eccentricity!

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 21:15–22:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Ventnor Fringe

SUNDAY SHINDIG WITH USHTI BABA

TICKETS: £12 £8 u25

We’ve planned a very special knees up Sunday Shindig hosted by Bristolians Ushti Baba. Riotous folk fusing hypnotic pan-European melodies with modern dance rhythms. Heavy beatbox roots, wild fiddle-driven fervour, an energetic thrill-filled musical journey from familiar lands to the beyond and back. Support comes from the Kahunas.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 20:00–22:30

WHERE: The Big Top

Dave Bull

REMEMBERING JOHN RENBOURN

TICKETS: Pay What You Can: £5/£8/£10/£15/£20/£25

A recital/workshop on his influence on the 60s folk/blues boom including: songs and instrumentals from John’s first two albums; personal reminiscences by the presenter Dave Bull (a close friend of John’s dating back to the 60s); and contributions from the audience. It is a warm and witty tribute to one of the finest musicians the folk scene.

WHEN: Tue 25th & Wed 26th | 21:30–23:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

TICKETS: £10 | £5 u25

MUSIC

Elizabeth

& Jameson

ELIZABETH & JAMESON (ACOUSTIC DUO)

Appearing for their third consecutive year at the festival, Elizabeth & Jameson, return with their new critically acclaimed EP in tow. Expect the usual high quality, harmony led songs with a more personal touch. These songs are inspired by their own history that have resonated with audiences up and down the country.

WHEN: Tue 25th & Wed 26th | 18:00–19:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Davis Nixon and Biggs THE SOLDIER’S TALE

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

United Talent GENGAHR

MUSIC

Purveyors of some of indie’s most catchy earworms, Gengahr are back with a career-best fourth album and a new lease of life. ‘Red Sun Titans’ is upbeat, trippy indie pop that will get you wanting to dance! For fans of: Alt-J, Foals, Bombay Bicycle Club.

WHEN: Fri 28th | 20:00–22:30

WHERE: The Big Top

Progressive Artists BC CAMPLIGHT

TICKETS: £15

Histoire du soldat, published in 1918 is an hour-long theatrical work to be read, played and danced. The music is by Igor Stravinsky and the English libretto by Flanders and Black. Essentially a cautionary tale, a soldier on leave from the army meets the Devil in disguise who persuades him to trade his old violin for a magic book that can make him rich. As is the nature of many fables, the consequences of consorting with the Devil are revealed.

WHEN: Tue 25th | 19:30–21:30

WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church

Vaguely Sunny NINA ROSS

TICKETS: £10

With a fast-growing reputation on and off the Island, local jazz vocalist Nina Ross is strong in the art of emotional and musical exploration with her highly creative trio. Expect a less than traditional approach to jazz and a jazz approach to contemporary!

Don’t miss this look at the light and dark side of life.

WHEN: Thu 27th | 19:30–21:30

WHERE: Holy Trinity Church

PulsArts

TICKETS: £12 | £8 u25

SIEMPRE MÁS ALLÁ LATIN JAZZ PIANO SOLO CONCERT

French pianist-composer Adrien Brandeis, pays tribute to Mexico through his third album “Siempre más allá” where he presents a colourful and finely nuanced jazz, allowing him to stage a display of his contrasting musical influences: jazz, classical music, Latin music, consolidating his own style and creating his musical signature.

WHEN: Thu 27th & Fri 28th | 21:30–23:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Casino Moon

TICKETS: £12

OLIVER HIPKINS (CASINO MOON) + FRIENDS

Casino Moon are collectors of stories. Transforming unheard narratives into contemporary music and spoken word. This is a deep exploration of the human condition and a search for meaning by unearthing the stories that connect people with places. Casino Moon embrace the unexpected and unconventional, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own.

WHEN: Fri 28th | 19:30–21:30

WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church

TICKETS: £12 | £10 u25

BC Camplight is the moniker of maverick songsmith Brian Christinzio. The Philadelphian is considered one of indie music’s most forward-thinking artists with a discography which acts as a soundtrack to a life rife with bad fortune, mental illness, running afoul of the law, and ultimately absolute redemption. For fans of: John Grant, Baxter Dury, Elbow

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 20:00–22:30

WHERE: The Big Top

Cat Skellington THE CAT SKELLINGTON QUARTET

ACOUSTIC JAZZ AND GYPSY SWING

TICKETS: £15

Channelling the spirit of the 1920s and 30s continental swing s cene with a mix of classics from the Django/Grappelli repertoire while also keeping alive little known rarities from early American jazz.

WHEN: Sat 29 th | 19:30–21:30

WHERE: St. Catherine’s Church

Pete Roth

PETE ROTH TRIO

TICKETS: £12

An evening of exquisite and melodic instrumental guitar jazz. Pete Roth, has garnered a significant following for his unique sound and style. He has toured internationally including Ronnie Scott’s and and the Royal Festival Hall. His new trio with double bass and drums provides Roth the opportunity to explore new sounds and push boundaries.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 21:30–23:00

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

Amick Productions/Wight Proms

TICKETS: £12

CAMERON & CHRISTIE: SOME ENCHANTED EVENING

A spectacular musical celebration as they embark on a mini-tour of the Isle of Wight including Bembridge, Cowes, Freshwater, Ryde and Ventnor. Featuring songs from West End and Broadway, including Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera, and classics such as Moon River, Some Enchanted Evening and Ol’ Man River.

WHEN: Sun 30th 15:00, 18:00 & 21:30

WHERE: Ventnor Arts Club

TICKETS: £15

WORKSHOPS

Hatha Yoga with Hummingbee HUMMINGBEE YOGA

A gentle hatha yoga class which offers time-out to slow down, unwind and relax. Suitable for all levels. We will move gently, practice some mindful breathing and finish with a little relaxation. The class is taught by Louise at Humming bee who encourages people to just have a go and have fun. Please bring a yoga mat if you have one. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards Brave Island. Find out more at Braveisland.uk

WHEN: Fri 21st & Sat 22nd | 10:00–11:00

WHERE: The Nest

Let’s Circus CIRCUS WORKSHOP

WORKSHOPS

Katy Rose Design DRAWING CLUB

Hosted by guest artist Katy Rose, a professional illustrator who has worked for clients including IOW Festival, RSPCA, and Heineken as well as being an associate artist of Ventnor Fringe. In this taster session Katy will be on hand to set you some fun challenges and set the theme for the session. Materials are provided.

WHEN: Tue 25th & Thu 27th | 13:00–14:30

TICKETS: £8

TICKETS: PAY WHAT YOU CAN: £3/£5/£8/£10

Want to run away and join the circus? This year you can with FREE family circus workshops hosted by the fantastic Let’s Circus crew. Learn all sorts of skills such as handstands, juggling, acrobatics, hula hoops or aerial skills!

WHEN: Sat 22nd ,Wed 26th , Thu 27th , Fri 28th | 15:30–16:30

WHERE: The Magpie

Tatty Devine PARAKEET NECKLACE WORKSHOP

TICKETS: FREE

Join art jewellers Tatty Devine to make your very own Parakeet Necklace in a covetable NEW emerald green colourway. You’ll learn how to hand link mirrored acrylic feathers together to create a shimmering necklace. Suitable for beginners. Please wear flat, closed-toe shoes. Under 16’s need to bring an adult with you who has also booked a place.

WHEN: Sat 22nd 13:00–14:30

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £55

Tatty Devine STAR BUNTING NECKLACE WORKSHOP

Art jewellersTatty Devine’s NEW Star Bunting Necklace workshop. You’ll learn how to hand link five shimmering star charms together in a choice of Rainbow OR Gold acrylic to create a sparkling mini constellation. Suitable for beginners. Please wear flat, closed-toe shoes.Under 16’s need to bring an adult with you who has also booked a place.

WHEN: Sat 22nd | 15:00–16:30

WHERE: The Nest

Wiper & True WIPER & TRUE BEER TASTING

TICKETS: £40

WHERE: The Nest

Brave Island BRAVE SOUNDS DJ WORKSHOP

Are you aged 14–25 and interested in DJing and Producing music? Come and try out our Brave Sounds DJ drop-in taster session hosted by Producer and DJ Ed Eldridge. You don’t need any prior experience and you will get the chance to learn how to DJ and mix digitally with Pioneer consoles and laptops provided to use. Check out braveisland.uk for more info

WHEN: Tue 25th | 15:00–16:30

WHERE: The Nest

Echo Me Sound Therapy SOUNDWAVES SOUND BATH

TICKETS: FREE

Join me for a chilled and relaxing Soundwaves Sound Bath. You’ll experience the nourishing power of Singing Bowls, Crystal Bowls, Gong and Chimes to deeply relax. A Sound Bath is a deeply immersive, full-body listening experience that intentionally uses Sound Waves to invite gentle yet powerful therapeutic and restorative processes.

WHEN: Wed 26th & Thu 27th | 10:00–11:00

WHERE: The Nest

TICKETS: £12 £10 u25

New Carnival and VIVA NEW CARNIVAL AND VIVA – WORKSHOPS

Join New Carnival and VIVA Samba for some FREE creative activities. Drop in workshops to create basic costumes, and to learn and perform samba grooves, which reflect and celebrate Ventnor, as part of a project titled ‘A Railway by the Sea’.

WHEN: Wed 26th | 13:00 & 15:00

WHERE: The Nest

Tallulah Smith CHOIR SINGING WORKSHOP

Join Tim from Bristol brewery Wiper and True for an intimate guided tasting of the freshest craft beers in the South West. You’ll sample a variety of beer styles, learning about the brewing process, ingredients, and inspiration behind each drink. With plenty of time for questions, this is a must-do for any beer lovers.

WHEN: Sun 23rd | 14:00 & 18:00

WHERE: The Big Top Bar

TICKETS: £15

TICKETS: FREE

Singing in a group of people is proven to be good for your wellbeing so why not come have a go with Ventnor Exchange Choir. The session is led by Tallulah Smith, ALRAalumni, actor, singer and teacher. Starting with a gentle warm up, breathing exercises and then moving on to singing some brilliant tunes by artists from Abba to CHAMPS.

TICKETS: £7

WHEN: Thu 27th | 15:00–16:30

WHERE: The Nest

DAILY LISTINGS

DATE TIME SHOW VENUE ICONS PAGE

Fri 21st 10:00–11:00Hummingbee Yoga The Nest p38

Fri 21st 10:00–15:00Gianpaolo Mario Photo Gallery Park View p14

Fri 21st 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Cafe p13

Fri 21st 10:00–17:00'Flight' a 20 year anniversary Honeybourne Jewellery p14

Fri 21st 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Fri 21st 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Cafe p31

Fri 21st 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Fri 21st 14:00–16:30The Dickens Trail Around Bonchurch Bonchurch Pond p30

Fri 21st 14:15 TAROO Ventnor Harbour p11

Fri 21st 14:30–16:30albedo marz 35 Madeira Road p13

Fri 21st 15:00–16:00You Don’t Have to Be Mad to Work HereVentnor Arts Club p21

Fri 21st 17:00 TAROO Ventnor Harbour p11

Fri 21st 17:30–8:30 Impromptu Shakespeare The Magpie p15

Fri 21st 18:00–19:00The History of Gin and literature Ventnor Arts Club p30

Fri 21st 19:30–20:30SHOW:GIRLS The Nest p21

Fri 21st 19:30–20:30Bob: The Half A Sausage Musical The Magpie p21

Fri 21st 20:00–22:30Flamingods The Big Top p34

Fri 21st 21:15–22:15Ginny Lemon's Pick 'n' Mix The Magpie p21

Fri 21st 21:30–23:00Annette Gregory: Believe Tour 2023 Ventnor Arts Club p34

Fri 21st 22:00–23:00Vittorio Angelone The Nest p21

Fri 21st 22:30–00:00Silent Disco The Big Top p34

Sat 22nd 10:00–11:00Hummingbee Yoga The Nest p38

Sat 22nd 10:00–15:00Gianpaolo Mario Photo Gallery Park View p14

Sat 22nd 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Cafe p14

Sat 22nd 10:00–17:00'Flight' a 20 year anniversary Honeybourne Jewellery p13

Sat 22nd 11:00–13:00 albedo marz @art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p14

Sat 22nd 13:00–14:30Tatty Devine Parakeet Necklace The Nest p38

Sat 22nd 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Cafe p31

Sat 22nd 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Sat 22nd 13:30–14:30Meridian Beach Boniface Studios (Studio) p34

Sat 22nd 14:00–16:00Jo Hummel: WISH YOU WERE HERE Peer Studios p13

Sat 22nd 14:00–23:00EarsPeeled: A Day @ The Fringe V2 The Big Top p34

Sat 22nd 14:30–15:30 Witty Look The Magpie p19

Sat 22nd 14:30–16:30albedo marz @art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Sat 22nd 15:00–16:00You Don’t Have to Be Mad to Work HereVentnor Arts Club p21

DAILY LISTINGS

DATE TIMESHOW VENUE ICONS PAGE

Sat 22nd 15:00–16:30Tatty Devine Star Bunting Necklace The Nest p38

Sat 22nd 15:00–16:00Andrew Butcher: Fake It Till You break It!Boniface Studios (Hall) p31

Sat 22nd 15:30–16:30Laughing in the face of adversity Boniface Studio (Studio) p22

Sat 22nd 15:30–16:30 Circus School The Magpie p38

Sat 22nd 17:00–18:00FREE WILL & OTHER MYTHS Boniface Studios (Hall) p15

Sat 22nd 17:30–18:30 Impromptu Shakespeare The Magpie p15

Sat 22nd 17:30–18:30Ventnor Exchange Spoken Word Collective The Nest p31

Sat 22nd 18:00–19:00The History of Gin and literature Ventnor Arts Club p30

Sat 22nd 19:30–20:30 Geoff Norcott: Work in Progress The Magpie p22

Sat 22nd 19:30–21:00Jack's Comedy Club at the Ventnor Fringe The Nest p22

Sat 22nd 21:15–23:00The Big Fringe Variety Show The Magpie p22

Sat 22nd 21:30–23:00Pete Roth Trio Ventnor Arts Club p37

Sat 22nd 21:30–23:00Annette Gregory: Believe Tour 2023 Ventnor Arts Club p34

Sat 22nd 22:00–23:00 Sex-Ed Revisited The Nest p22

Sat 22nd 22:30–00:00Silent Disco The Big Top p34

Sun 23rd 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe p13

Sun 23rd 10:00–16:00Ventnor Artists Collective Exhibition Ventnor Botanic Garden p14

Sun 23rd 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Sun 23rd 11:00–16:00Jo Hummel: WISH YOU WERE HERE Peer Studios p13

Sun 23rd 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Cafe p31

Sun 23rd 13:00–20:45 ARCADE ( Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Sun 23rd 13:30–14:30Meridian Beach Boniface Studios (Studio) p34

Sun 23rd 14:00–15:00Wiper & True Beer Tasting The Big Top Bar p38

Sun 23rd 14:30–16:30albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Sun 23rd 14:30–15:30 Witty Look The Magpie p19

Sun 23rd 14:30–15:30Slapstick Picnic: Peter Pan The Magpie p20

Sun 23rd 15:00–16:00Andrew Butcher: Fake It Till You break It!Boniface Studios (Hall) p31

Sun 23rd 15:00–16:00OnTheWight and The Book Bus Presents...Ventnor Arts Club p31

Sun 23rd 15:30–16:30Adele Cliff Can Break Your Arm (WIP)Boniface Studios (Studio) p23

Sun 23rd 16:00–17:30Curtain Call Creative: Big Top BroadwayThe Big Top p15

Sun 23rd 17:00–17:20A Porcelain Performance Binnel Studios p13

Sun 23rd 17:00–18:00 Tony “Monty” Hirst: Unforeseen Consequences Boniface Studios (Hall) p31

Sun 23rd 17:30–18:30 Impromptu Shakespeare The Magpie p15

Sun 23rd 17:30–18:30Heidi Regan: Work in Progress The Nest p23

Sun 23rd 18:00–19:00Wiper & True Beer Tasting The Big Top Bar p38

Sun 23rd 18:00–19:00Helena Isabelle Biggs: ‘So You See’ Ventnor Arts Club p15

DAILY LISTINGS

Sun 23rd 19:30–20:30Rob Auton: The Rob Auton Show The Nest p23

Sun 23rd 19:30–20:30EAT, SLAY, LOVE – A Quivers Stand Up Show The Magpie p23

Sun 23rd 19:30–21:30Pressing On: Spiritual songs to inspire St. Catherine's Church p35

Sun 23rd 20:00–22:30Sunday Shindig with Ushti Baba The Big Top p35

Sun 23rd 21:15–22:30Professor Elemental and Baron Fortitude The Magpie p35

Sun 23rd 21:30–23:00The Soul of the Blues Ventnor Arts Club p35

Sun 23rd 22:00–23:00 Sex-Ed Revisited The Nest p22

Mon 24th 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe p13

Mon 24th 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Mon 24th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Mon 24th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Mon 24th 14:30–16:30albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Tue 25th 11:00–11:30Piano Smashers Boniface Studios (Studio) p15

Tue 25th 11:00–12:00 The Lighthouse Keeper The Magpie p19

Tue 25th 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Tue 25th 11:30–16:00Jo Hummel: WISH YOU WERE HERE Peer Studios p13

Tue 25th 13:00–14:30Drawing Club The Nest p39

Tue 25th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p19

Tue 25th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Tue 25th 14:00–19:00 OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Tue 25th 14:30–16:30albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Tue 25th 15:00–16:00Hunter Davies: The Beatles Ventnor Arts Club

Tue 25th 15:00–16:30Brave Sounds DJ Workshop The Nest p39

Tue 25th 15:30–16:30The Boy Who Headbutted the Sun Boniface Studios (Studio) p32

Tue 25th 16:00–17:00Bromance The Big Top p16

Tue 25th 17:00–18:00Luke Wright’s Silver Jubilee Boniface Studios (Hall) p32

Tue 25th 17:30–18:30Glenn Moore: Work In Progress The Nest p23

Tue 25th 17:30–18:30Unwanted Objects The Magpie p16

Tue 25th 18:00–19:00Elizabeth & Jameson (Acoustic duo) Ventnor Arts Club p36

Tue 25th 19:00–20:00Fabulous Follies The Big Top p16

Tue 25th 19:30–20:30Huge Davies: Whodunnit (WIP) The Nest p24

Tue 25th 19:30–20:30Old Aged Puppets The Magpie p24

Tue 25th 19:30–21:30The Soldier's Tale St. Catherine's Church p36

Tue 25th 21:00–23:00An Evening Without Kate Bush The Big Top p16

Tue 25th 21:15–22:15Olga Koch: Prawn Cocktail The Magpie p24

DAILY LISTINGS

DATE TIMESHOW VENUE ICONS PAGE

Tue 25th 21:30–23:00Remembering John Renbourn Ventnor Arts Club p35

Tue 25th 22:00–23:00 Helen Bauer: Grand Supreme Darling Princess The Nest p24

Wed 26th 10:00–11:00Soundwaves Sound Bath The Nest p39

Wed 26th 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe p13

Wed 26th 11:00–11:30Piano Smashers Boniface Studios (Studio) p15

Wed 26th 11:00–12:00 The Lighthouse Keeper The Magpie p19

Wed 26th 11:00–12:00Angus Baskerville: Mind Trickery Boniface Studios (Hall) p17

Wed 26th 13:00–14:00Disco 4 Kidz The Big Top p19

Wed 26th 11:00–13:00 albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Wed 26th 13:00–14:00HangDog: M U S I C Boniface Studios (Hall) p17

Wed 26th 13:00–14:40The Wind in the Willows Ventnor Botanic Garden p19

Wed 26th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Wed 26th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Wed 26th 13:00 & 15:00New Carnival and VIVA–Workshops The Nest p39

Wed 26th 13:30–14:30Claire Speight: Bare Boniface Studios (Studio) p33

Wed 26th 14:00–19:00OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Wed 26th 14:300–16:30albedo marz @ art_house_life

35 Madeira Road p13

Wed 26th 14:30–15:30Happy Daze The Magpie p19

Wed 26th 14:30–16:30Ventnor- Cradle of the Russian RevolutionVentnor Winter Gardens p33

Wed 26th 15:00–16:00Liner Notes presents Nick Drake BookVentnor Arts Club p32

Wed 26th 15:00–16:00The Head Gardener Boniface Studios (Hall) p17

Wed 26th 15:30–16:30The Boy Who Headbutted the Sun Boniface Studios (Studio) p32

Wed 26th 15:30–16:30 Circus School The Magpie p38

Wed 26th 16:00–17:00Bromance The Big Top p16

Wed 26th 17:00–18:00Dark Tales From The Woods Boniface Studios (Hall) p32

Wed 26th 17:30–18:30Unwanted Objects The Magpie p16

Wed 26th 17:30–18:30Ania Magliano: Work In Progress The Nest p24

Wed 26th 18:00–19:00Elizabeth & Jameson (Acoustic duo) Ventnor Arts Club p36

Wed 26th 19:00–20:00Fabulous Follies The Big Top p16

Wed 26th 19:30–20:30Old Aged Puppets The Magpie p24

Wed 26th 19:30–20:30Luke Kempner: Work In Progress The Nest p25

Wed 26th 21:00–23:00An Evening Without Kate Bush The Big Top p16

Wed 26th 21:15–22:15Sophie Duker: WIP The Magpie p25

Wed 26th 21:30–23:00Remembering John Renbourn Ventnor Arts Club p35

Wed 26th 22:00–23:00Joe Wells: King Of The Autistics The Nest p25

DAILY LISTINGS

Thurs 27th 10:00–11:00Soundwaves Sound Bath The Nest

Thurs 27th 10:00–15:00Gianpaolo Mario Photo Gallery Park View

Thurs 27th 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe

Thurs 27th 11:00–11:30Piano Smashers Boniface Studios (Studio) p15

Thurs 27th 11:00–12:00 The Lighthouse Keeper The Magpie p19

Thurs 27th 11:00–12:00Angus Baskerville: Mind Trickery Boniface Studios (Hall) p17

Thurs 27th 13:00–14:00Disco 4 Kidz The Big Top p19

Thurs 27th 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Thurs 27th 13:00–14:00HangDog: M U S I C Boniface Studios (Hall) p17

Thurs 27th 13:00–14:30Drawing Club The Nest p39

Thurs 27th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Thurs 27th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Thurs 27th 14:00–19:00 OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Thurs 27th 14:30–15:30 albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Thurs 27th 14:30–15:30 Happy Daze The Magpie p19

Thurs 27th 14:30–16:30Ventnor- Cradle of the Russian RevolutionVentnor Winter Gardens p33

Thurs 27th 15:00–16:00The Crocodile of Old Kang Pow Boniface Studio (Hall) p17

Thurs 27th 15:00–16:00Poetry in Black & White Ventnor Arts Club p33

Thurs 27th 15:00–16:30Choir Singing Workshop The Nest p39

Thurs 27th 15:30–16:30The Boy Who Headbutted the Sun Boniface Studios (Studio) p32

Thurs 27th 15:30–16:30 Circus School The Magpie p38

Thurs 27th 16:00–17:00Bromance The Big Top p16

Thurs 27th 17:00–18:00The supermodel in the caff Boniface Studio (Studio)

Thurs 27th 17:30–18:30Unwanted Objects The Magpie p16

Thurs 27th 17:30–18:30Richard Herring–Work in Progress (sold out) The Nest

Thurs 27th 18:00–19:00Amelia Jane Hunter: Exquisite Pervert Ventnor Arts Club p25

Thurs 27th 19:00–20:00Fabulous Follies The Big Top p16

Thurs 27th 19:30–20:30Josh Baulf: Bulldog The Nest p26

Thurs 27th 19:30–20:30 The Mr. Thing Show The Magpie p25

Thurs 27th 19:30–21:30 Nina Ross Holy Trinity Church p36

Thurs 27th 21:00–22:30An Evening Without Kate Bush The Big Top p16

Thurs 27th 21:15–22:15Drunk Women Solving Crime The Magpie p26

Thurs 27th 21:30–23:00 Siempre más allá Latin Jazz Piano solo concert Ventnor Arts Club p36

Thurs 27th 22:00–23:00Anu Vaidyanathan: Blimp The Nest p26

Fri 28th 10:00–15:00Gianpaolo Mario Photo Gallery Park View p14

DAILY LISTINGS

DATE TIME SHOW VENUE ICONS PAGE

Fri 28th 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe p13

Fri 28th 11:00–11:30Piano Smashers Boniface Studios (Studio) p15

Fri 28th 11:00–12:00Darryl J. Carrington: "Out of the Box"The Big Top p20

Fri 28th 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Fri 28th 12:30–14:00The Molly Downer Musical Boniface Studios (Hall) p18

Fri 28th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Fri 28th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Fri 28th 13:30–14:30Rachel Attwood: Wack! Boniface Studios (Studio) p26

Fri 28th 14:00–19:00OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Fri 28th 14:30–16:40albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Fri 28th 14:30–15:30 Happy Daze The Magpie p19

Fri 28th 15:00–16:00The Crocodile of Old Kang Pow Boniface Studio (Hall) p17

Fri 28th 15:00–16:00Here be giants Ventnor Arts Club p33

Fri 28th 15:00–17:00The Aretha Franklin Story The Big Top p17

Fri 28th 15:30–16:30The Boy Who Headbutted the Sun Boniface Studios (Studio) p32

Fri 28th 15:30–16:30 Circus School The Magpie p38

Fri 28th 17:00–18:00The supermodel in the caff Boniface Studio (Studio)

Fri 28th 17:30–18:30Freya Parker: It Ain't Easy Being Cheeky The Nest p26

Fri 28th 18:00–19:00Amelia Jane Hunter: Exquisite PervertVentnor Arts Club p25

Fri 28th 19:30–20:30 The Mr. Thing Show The Magpie p25

Fri 28th 19:30–20:30Garrett Millerick: Never Had It So Good The Nest p27

Fri 28th 19:30–21:30Oliver Hipkins (Casino Moon) + friendsSt. Catherine's Church p36

Fri 28th 20:00–23:00Gengahr The Big Top p37

Fri 28th 21:15–23:00Pick of the Fringe The Magpie p27

Fri 28th 21:30–23:00 Siempre más allá Latin Jazz Piano solo concert Ventnor Arts Club p36

Fri 28th 22:30–00:00Silent Disco The Big Top p34

Sat 29th 12:00–13:00SESKA–COOKING UP FUN The Nest p20

Sat 29th 12:00 - 13:00 One Sock: a storytelling riddle filled sock hunt Ventnor Town Council p19

Sat 29th 12:30–14:00The Molly Downer Musical Boniface Studios (Hall) p18

Sat 29th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Sat 29th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Sat 29th 13:30–14:30Letters To My Dead Mother Boniface Studios (Studio) p18

Sat 29th 14:00–19:00OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Sat 29th 14:30–15:30Happy Daze The Magpie p19

Sat 29th 15:00–16:00The Crocodile of Old Kang Pow Boniface Studio (Hall) p17

DAILY LISTINGS

Sat 29th 15:00–16:30Ventnor Fringe Sewcial The Nest

Sat 29th 15:00–17:00The Aretha Franklin Story The Big Top

Sat 29th 15:30–16:30Tim Cooper presents MAWGIAS Boniface Studio (Studio) p33

Sat 29th 17:00–18:00Macready! Dickens' Theatrical Friend Boniface Studios (Hall) p18

Sat 29th 17:30–18:30Jacob Hawley (Work in Progress) The Nest p27

Sat 29th 18:00–19:00Ben Ashurst: Three Cheese Straws For £1Ventnor Arts Club p27

Sat 29th 19:30–20:30 The Mr. Thing Show The Magpie p25

Sat 29th 19:30–20:30Ahir Shah: Ends The Nest p27

Sat 29th 19:30–21:30The Cat Skellington Quartet St. Catherine's Church p37

Sat 29th 19:30-20.30Happy Daze The Magpie p19

Sat 29th 20:00–23:00BC Camplight The Big Top p37

Sat 29th 21:15–23:00Pick of the Fringe The Magpie p27

Sat 29th 22:00–23:00KIZZA–JIGGY YAK FIGGY YAK The Nest p30

Sat 29th 22:30–00:00Silent Disco The Big Top p34

Sun 30th 10:00–16:00Operation Geranium ART Show Better Days Caffe p13

Sun 30th 11:00–11:30Piano Smashers Boniface Studios (Studio) p15

Sun 30th 11:00–12:00Darryl J. Carrington: "Out of the Box" The Big Top p20

Sun 30th 11:00–13:00albedo marz @ art_house_life 35 Madeira Road p13

Sun 30th 11:00–15:00OLIVIA La Falaise Carpark Shelter p14

Sat 29th 12:00 - 13:00 One Sock: a storytelling riddle filled sock hunt Ventnor Town Council p19

Sun 30th 12:30–14:00The Molly Downer Musical Boniface Studios (Hall) p18

Sun 30th 13:30–14:30Letters To My Dead Mother Boniface Studios (Studio) p18

Sun 30th 13:00–15:00Stokey Woodall's Solar Walk Better Days Caffe p31

Sun 30th 13:00–20:45 ARCADE (Every 45 mins) The Fringe Square p14

Sun 23rd 15:00–19:00 Cameron & Christie: Some Enchanted Evening Ventnor Arts Club p37

Sun 30th 15:00–16:00FIGGY GIG Boniface Studios (Hall) p18

Sun 30th 15:00–16:30A Midsummer Night's Dream Ventnor Botanic Garden p18

Sun 30th 15:00–17:00The Aretha Franklin Story The Big Top p17

Sun 30th 15:30–16:30Tim Cooper presents MAWGIAS Boniface Studio (Studio) p33

Sun 30th 17:30–18:30St Catherine's Gigantic Gala The Magpie p20

Sun 30th 18:00–20:00 The Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny Ventnor Botanic Garden p20

Sun 23rd 18:00–19:00 Cameron & Christie: Some Enchanted Evening Ventnor Arts Club p37

Sun 30th 19:30–20:30Sara Barron The Nest p30

Sun 30th 19:30-20:30Slapstick Picnic: Peter Pan The Magpie p20

Sun 30rd 21:30–22:30Cameron & Christie: Some Enchanted EveningVentnor Arts Club p37

Special Thanks

There are so many wonderful people that help to make Ventnor Fringe happen! It’s a huge team effort and everyone involved loves it dearly, something we hope that shines through. Thank you to our amazing volunteer team, crew, bar teams, the Ventnor Exchange staff, all our contractors, our sponsors and supporters, our amazing and talented artists who come and perform, workshop practitioners and traders, the Culture/ Unlimited Pass holders and of course thanks to you, our audience!

You are the reason we care so much and we hope you enjoy being a part of it.

This programme is dedicated to Peter Cramp and Evelyn Knowles, two beloved Ventnorians we are missing. Please join us in raising a glass to them this Fringe.

Illustrations : Hugo Bilton

Programme Design & Layout: Ada May

Photos: Julian Winslow, Maria Bell

Proofing: Jack Elton-Walters

ENJOY THE SOUTH WEST'S FRESHEST CRAFT BEERS ON DRAFT AND IN CANS IN FESTIVAL TENTS, AT THE VENTNOR EXCHANGE BAR, AND AT POP-UP VENUES ACROSS TOWN.