Island-based Horse Box Theatre are revving up for their latest production: Two-Stroke, a brand new Northern Soul musical inspired by the iconic Isle of Wight National Scooter Rally.
The show, written and directed by Joe Plumb, takes audiences back to 1986 as three girls arrive on the Island for the biggest scooter rally of the year.
A whirlwind weekend
What follows is a whirlwind weekend packed with music, movement, and unexpected friendships – all set to a soul-stirring jukebox soundtrack.
Northern Soul classics such as “A Town Called Malice,” “I’m On My Way,” and “Out On The Floor” form the musical backbone of this high-energy show, which celebrates a unique chapter of Island culture.
The talented cast
The cast features Ellie Warne (also musical director) who has recently performed as Betty in the smash-hit production of Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em at Department and Shanklin Theatre, Fizz Lewis-Marlton, who played Artie in Horse Box Theatre’s bold production of Sunset Boulevard at Shanklin Theatre last year and Freya Mackay-Blake, who performed in Renegade Girls with Horse Box Theatre at the Nuffield Theatre in Southampton.
The talented cast of three bring bucket loads of charisma and incredible singing voices to the stage in this fast-paced and heartfelt production.
Plumb: Proud to tell a local story through timeless music and an incredible cast
Speaking about the show, creator Joe Plumb said,
“The Scooter Rally has become part of the Island’s identity – bold, vibrant and full of soul. Two-Stroke is a tribute to that spirit.
“We’re proud to tell a local story through timeless music and an incredible cast.
“It’s fun, moving, and full of Northern Soul energy – we can’t wait to share it with audiences.”
Horse Box Theatre
Horse Box Theatre, based at Department in Ryde, continues to make waves with original theatre rooted in local stories and voices.
Two-Stroke promises to be a celebration of Island heritage, youth rebellion, and the enduring power of music.
Where and when
The show is at Department for one week only with performances on 20th, 21st and 23rd August at 8pm and at 3pm on 24th August – so there’s time to watch the Ride-Out on Sunday and then head up the road to Department to watch the show.
Tickets are £15 (£10 for Under 26s) and they are available from the Department Shop on Cross Street, Ryde or via the online box office.
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