With just over a month to go before this year’s Ventnor Fringe Festival arrives, organisers are looking for more volunteers to join the team behind the ten-day celebration of arts and culture.
The festival relies entirely on volunteer support, drawing helpers from across the Isle of Wight and further afield to keep the event running smoothly.
Organisers describe this community of helpers as the “festival family”, saying volunteers play a vital role in maintaining safety and keeping everything on track from start to finish.
Roles to suit everyone
There are many ways to get involved, with positions available before, during, and after the festival.
Roles include stewarding, box office work, technical support, marketing, and helping to build and decorate the site, with three core teams forming the backbone of the volunteer programme: Stewards, Box Office, and Build Crew.
Organisers say they want every volunteer to enjoy their time at the festival, with the opportunity to see shows, gain experience, and in many cases make lasting friendships.
The team welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds.
What volunteers say
Those who have already taken part speak warmly of the experience.
Ramona describes it simply,
“Volunteering for the Fringe is fantastic. You won’t regret it – it’s a few weeks full of fun, new experiences, and the chance to meet people from all walks of life.”
For Maggie, the appeal lies in the day-to-day work itself,
“I enjoy working as part of a friendly team, greeting performers and audience members, and helping to make Ventnor Fringe run smoothly.”
Clive puts it even more succinctly,
“I finish every shift with a smile on my face.”
A sense of community
Andy reflects on what sets the experience apart,
“The Ventnor Fringe is a truly unique experience – a rich diversity that brings everybody together.
“As a volunteer not only do you get to contribute to making it so, you are part of it. So whilst you give, you receive so much more.”
Russ, who helps with the build, explains how the role fits around the rest of the festival,
“I’ve been volunteering at the Ventnor Fringe for a few years now and I love it. It’s an intense day or two at either end, leaving free time to enjoy the Fringe the rest of the time.
“As a volunteer, you get free entry to the shows of your choice, and it’s a great sense of community. The after parties are normally pretty good too!”
Hannah highlights the chance to broaden your cultural horizons,
“I love volunteering for the Fringe. It’s the best way to see shows that perhaps you wouldn’t normally choose but then unexpectedly really enjoy. The vibes are great, you meet loads of wonderful people and get to experience art and fun in every form.”
The magic of the Fringe
Suz captures the atmosphere in a single image,
“Walking down Alpine Road early in the morning with a lanyard round my neck is just the tonic I need.”
Matt, who volunteered last year, is already counting down,
“I had such a great time volunteering at the Fringe last year, met so many great and interesting people, can’t wait for next year!”
Sarah sums up the broader appeal,
“It’s such a brilliant event to volunteer for. You meet wonderful people, get to see an incredible variety of shows, and become part of the buzz of the Fringe.”
How to sign up
Anyone interested in volunteering can fill in a registration form on the Ventnor Fringe website, with the team contacting successful applicants after reviewing submissions.
For questions or further information, contact Mhairi at [email protected] or call 01983 716 767.
Full details of the festival programme are available on the Ventnor Fringe website.
