StoneCrabs Theatre recently concluded its ‘Force of Nature’ project which was supported by Isle of Wight National Landscape as part of their ‘Discovering Landscapes’ initiative.
From January to June 2025, ten sessions explored the beautiful nature of the Island, with visits to areas in the Bay and West Wight. Guided by artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt, participants reconnected with the outdoors and produced creative works inspired by their experiences.
Tour of the Island
In the first sessions, groups visited places such as Brading Downs, Ventnor Botanic Gardens, and the Rare Breeds Farm at Alverstone.
During the West Wight events, Dimbola Museum and Gardens, Farringford Gardens and the Longstone were explored.
Commemorating the vibrant seasons
These meetings took place alongside the spring and summer equinoxes, commemorating the vibrant seasons.
All ages were welcome, and the responses of artwork, poetry, music, and photography were encouraged. Participants described the sessions as ‘fun and inspirational’ and ‘a total joy’ with a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
The final event
At the end of the project, a final event celebrated the walks and the creativity they had influenced.
Many of the sessions had been captured by filmmaker Sam Lapham and a screening of the film also took place. This can be viewed on the StoneCrabs YouTube page.
StoneCrabs Associate Artist/Producer Ben Murray-Homes, who attended the film screening, said that the various sessions of the project fostered ‘the camaraderie of a group of disparate individuals finding friendship and connection as they traversed, chatted and sang’.
Upcoming events
StoneCrabs Theatre has a number of upcoming projects and events. Their ‘Performed Walks’, taking place in various locations across the Isle of Wight, bring to life LGBTQ+ historical figures who had connections to the Island. From July to October, participants are invited to walk with Oscar Wilde, Virginia Woolf, Charlotte Mew, and Ferguson’s Gang.
More details can be found on the StoneCrabs blog page.
Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories in Ryde
They are also embarking on a new project, funded by Historic England, Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories in Ryde.
This examines the hidden heritage of Union Street and a number of venues there, some of which are no longer present.
News shared by Katie on behalf of StoneCrabs Theatre. Ed
