Isle of Wight theatres

A special evening out can be an integral part of the perfect holiday and where better to spend it than at the theatre.

The Isle of Wight is blessed with some great entertainment venues and whether you like classical music, rock and roll, drama or musicals, there is always something to enjoy.

Medina Theatre in the Isle of Wight county town of Newport has a huge variety of entertainment on throughout the year.

It is home to the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra, whose regular recitals bring the best of live classical music to Islanders and visitors alike. From the best-known pieces to some more hidden gems, lovers of the genre won’t be disappointed.

Medina Theatre also presents a range of shows including touring opera productions, comedians, tribute acts and productions for children.

Also in Newport is one of the Island’s best known amateur dramatics groups, The Apollo Theatre in Pyle Street. This hard-working troupe puts on a variety of drama throughout the year and this year has begun showing live screenings of National Theatre productions in its intimate auditorium.

Cineworld in Newport often show live events on the big screen from prestigious companies such as the National Opera and National Ballet and the Met Opera, broadcast direct from the stage. Previous performances include Carmen, Romeo and Juliet and more. For more information check the latest listings on their website.

Quay Arts in Newport is home to the Minghella Theatre, named after one of the Island’s finest exports, Oscar-winning film director, Anthony Minghella. The theatre hosts a wide range of shows and events, from talks and local stage productions to comedians and musicians.

But there is cultural life outside the Island’s capital and one of the most vibrant venues is Shanklin Theatre, a traditional, characterful theatre which was constructed in the late 1800s.

The theatre puts on regular productions from local theatre groups and touring shows by top comedians, musical acts and dancers.

Within the internationally renowned sailing town of Cowes sits Trinity Theatre. The theatre is owned by one of the oldest amateur dramatic societies in the UK. There are regular productions offering a variety of performances for everyone. 

One of the Isle of Wight’s up and coming events is the eclectic splendour of the Ventnor Fringe Festival, which is a sort of south coast sibling of the Edinburgh Fringe, with award-winning comedians, music and a variety of other performers.

Its home is the Ventnor Exchange which throughout the year hosts an innovative theatre space as well as a craft beer bar.

As well as using our traditional theatres, many actors and musicians host events in quirky venues including converted banks and post offices and historic buildings. Look out for theatre in the open air during the summer months.

See our events page to find out what's on at theatres across the Island.