kerry ellis performing west end sessions rossetti trieste
© Simon Ediluca

Cowes Fringe festival returns to Isle of Wight with diverse lineup

Cowes Fringe is making a grand comeback this year. After a successful inaugural event, the festival returns with a bang, promising an unforgettable experience for diverse entertainment lovers.

As an eclectic mix of talented artists take the stage, festival-goers can expect a fantastic array of performances.

Dickens Double Bill
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is a “Dickens Double Bill” featuring Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens.

Gerald will present two of his ancestor’s works, capturing the literary giant’s connection to the Isle of Wight.

Comedy theatre
Adding a splash of comedy to the festival, Joe Plumb’s Horsebox Theatre will present “Special Measures,” a hilarious new farce set in an ordinary secondary school disrupted by the sudden arrival of an inspector.

For family audiences, Joe also offers “Vincent and The Mermaid,” an interactive and humorous play inspired by local author Jules Marriner.

Acting workshop
An adult acting workshop led by actors from MAST Mayflower Studios offers a unique opportunity and is designed to cater to both seasoned performers and novices, providing practical exercises to hone their craft in a supportive environment.

The Queen of West End musicals
Kerry Ellis recognised as the Queen of West End musicals from her starring roles in London and on Broadway is set to perform some of her favourite show tunes.

The lineup also includes the energetic Brando Party Band (pictured below), whose diverse musical repertoire is sure to keep everyone dancing, and DJ Gordon Mac (pictured above), a pivotal figure in the dance music scene and a crowd favorite.

And there’s more
Add to the Fringe mix pianist Sean Logan, funk flamenco guitarist Jonjan Kavlakoglu, musical magician Neil Kelso, and a Cowes Hootenanny and there really is something for everyone.

Cowes Fringe is not just a festival, but a community event that this year will support Mountbatten, with support from sponsors such as Pinkmead Estate and Vineyard and Red Funnel.

Where and when
Cowes Fringe takes place across a range of venues in Cowes, Isle of Wight from 23rd to 26th May 2024.

For the full programme, tickets and more information, visit the Cowes Fringe website.


Our thanks to Cowes Fringe for sponsoring for this feature. They and other businesses and organisations taking paid promotion enables you to continue reading OnTheWight for free.