In October 2023, Creative Island convened a meeting at the Apollo Theatre in Newport with many of the Island’s theatre companies to start a conversation about their work and ambitions.
What emerged was this idea of an Island theatre community which might allow for greater collaboration, sharing of knowledge, skills development, and mutual support. We began to identify common observations; that audiences will travel from all parts of the Island; that there is limited access to rehearsal space; skills gaps around touring models; connections to mainland venues.
The underlying thread of the conversation was around how to develop sustainable careers as professional theatre makers. As part of this work Creative Island has negotiated a hub membership for the Island with the Independent Theatre Council – the arts management network for over 400 companies across the UK – so that every Island-based theatre company joining our delivery project, the IW Creative Network, can benefit from their expertise.
Another meeting was held on 23rd January 2024, with the Theatre Officer for Arts Council England joining to both listen and update companies on current developments and a workshop with Touring Associate for HOUSE, Mark Makin.
Join the conversation
Do you lead a theatre company on the Isle of Wight? Then join us on Monday 2nd February 2026 where we’ll be revealing information about our Hub membership with the Independent Theatre Council. (Please note that you’ll need to be a IW Creative Member to access the resources from Independent Theatre Council)
Ventnor Exchange will also be talking about plans for the Ventnor Exchange Arena, a specially designed tent that can be transported anywhere to host the very best new circus, dance, theatre and music. So come along to hear about how this will work, test new ideas, discuss how we can support each other and find out what is needed to create a thriving theatre circuit on the Island. Anyone who has developed a theatre company on the Isle of Wight or in the process of developing a theatre company are welcome to attend.
For more details and to book your place, please click here.
