Costume Making for IW Pride Parade @ 13 Union Road, Ryde
2024-06-25 17:30 - 20:30 UTC | the couching house, 13 Union Road, Ryde, United Kingdom
Join @NewCarnivalCompany and Out On An Island tomorrow for their costume making workshops for the IW Pride Parade!
Date: 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th June
Time: 5:30-8:30pm
Location: The Coaching House, 13 Union Road, Ryde, PO332ER
FREE – Open to all ages – recommended for children aged 10 plus, all children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please book your place by emailing kai@newcarnival.co.uk

Joe Carstairs @ Quay Arts Anthony Minghella Theatre
2024-07-03 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-07-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD, United Kingdom
StoneCrabs Theatre present
JOE CARSTAIRS
“It is the world that must change, not I.”
In the midst of the roaring twenties, Joe Carstairs emerged as a rebellious force, defying societal expectations to become a war hero and the fastest boat-racer of a generation. But steering against the expectations of their class and culture came at a cost, with the tides of destiny propelling them in unexpected directions.
Cut to present day, when Hik, a tenacious young playwright from humble origins, grapples with their own defiant spirit. After meeting strong-willed Tee at a writing workshop, they are presented with the opportunity to craft a play about Carstairs, but find their own identity questioned when tradition collides with progress. It seems their societal norms are not all that different from their idol’s 100 years earlier.
StoneCrabs Theatre’s new drama Joe Carstairs unleashes a highly charged fusion of movement, words and music that brings one of the 20th century’s boldest queer figures into sharp relief.
This unforgettable show will challenge conventions, spark inspiration, and leave you pondering the meaning of personal freedom in a world determined to conform.
written by Franko Figueiredo & Krysia Mansfield
directed by Selwin Hulme-Teague & Robyn Lexi
featuring a special participation by the Isle Of Wight College Performing Arts Students
Praise for StoneCrabs Theatre work:
★★★★★ “Sharp, radiant and engaging” – BN1 Magazine on The Trial
★★★★★ “Outstanding” – Traspi.net on The Trial
★★★★ captivates, educates, and entertains – DIVA Magazine on The Trial
★★★★★ “utter, utter delight”- Island Echo on Utter Mess!
★★★★★ Time Out Critic’s choice – Waltz #6
★★★★★ “theatre which couldn’t have more contemporary relevance” – The Stage on Basic.
★★★★ full of wit, elegance and intelligence” – The Times on Waltz #6
Ages 13+
Approx 1hr 45 Minutes with Interval (Subject to change)
Cafe / Bar open from 18:00
Doors 19:00
Onstage from 19:30
July 3rd, 4th and 5th

Joe Carstairs @ Quay Arts Anthony Minghella Theatre
2024-07-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD, United Kingdom
JOE CARSTAIRS
“It is the world that must change, not I.”
In the midst of the roaring twenties, Joe Carstairs emerged as a rebellious force, defying societal expectations to become a war hero and the fastest boat-racer of a generation. But steering against the expectations of their class and culture came at a cost, with the tides of destiny propelling them in unexpected directions.
Cut to present day, when Hik, a tenacious young playwright from humble origins, grapples with their own defiant spirit. After meeting strong-willed Tee at a writing workshop, they are presented with the opportunity to craft a play about Carstairs, but find their own identity questioned when tradition collides with progress. It seems their societal norms are not all that different from their idol’s 100 years earlier.
StoneCrabs Theatre’s new drama Joe Carstairs unleashes a highly charged fusion of movement, words and music that brings one of the 20th century’s boldest queer figures into sharp relief.
This unforgettable show will challenge conventions, spark inspiration, and leave you pondering the meaning of personal freedom in a world determined to conform.
written by Franko Figueiredo & Krysia Mansfield
directed by Selwin Hulme-Teague & Robyn Lexi
featuring a special participation by the Isle Of Wight College Performing Arts Students
Praise for StoneCrabs Theatre work:
★★★★★ “Sharp, radiant and engaging” – BN1 Magazine on The Trial
★★★★★ “Outstanding” – Traspi.net on The Trial
★★★★ captivates, educates, and entertains – DIVA Magazine on The Trial
★★★★★ “utter, utter delight”- Island Echo on Utter Mess!
★★★★★ Time Out Critic’s choice – Waltz #6
★★★★★ “theatre which couldn’t have more contemporary relevance” – The Stage on Basic.
★★★★ full of wit, elegance and intelligence” – The Times on Waltz #6
Ages 13+
Approx 1hr 45 Minutes with Interval (Subject to change)
Cafe / Bar open from 18:00
Doors 19:00
Onstage from 19:30
July 3rd, 4th and 5th

Hear Me Now Workshop @ Boojum & Snark, Sandown, Isle of Wight
2024-07-13 11:00 - 14:00 | Boojum & Snark, 105 High Street, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8AF, United Kingdom
The next Hear Me Now & @outonanislandiw writing workshop will be led by Island creatives Tracy Mikich and Teresa Grimaldi who will run a hands-on print workshop at Boojum & Snark in Sandown. Participants will design and print a one-off Hear Me Now broadsheet featuring short-form work they’ve written for the project. The unique publication will be made available to the public during Pride, 19-21 July 2024.

Hear Me Now is a 6-month creative writing project for LGBTQ+ people and allies; Isle of Wight writers of all abilities are welcome and encouraged to take part in this series of free writing workshops, inspiring walks and inclusive talks organised to grow a supportive local writing community.
Funded by the Arts Council England, Hear Me Now is hosted Brevity, The Isle of Wight’s Literary Handbill, in collaboration with StoneCrabs Theatre.
The project aims to inspire Island writers, urging them to find and celebrate their unique writers’ voices within the safe, welcoming spaces of the workshops, walks and talks. Learning from a variety of diverse writers and creatives, Hear Me Now seeks to introduce participants to short-form fiction, while inspiring them with compelling, inclusive and bold points of view. Along with one-to-one mentoring, participants will also have a chance to connect as a writing community. Short work created by participants will be considered for publication in the print edition of Brevity or on the Brevity website.
The project will wrap up with StoneCrabs Theatre co-producing a public performance of selected short stories, as well as audio recordings that will feature on Brevity’s website.
If you would like to learn more about the Hear Me Now project, email Caroline Diamond at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk or you can register for the free workshops/walks/talks via Brevity’s Contact Us/Submit Page.
You can learn more about StoneCrabs Theatre at www.stonecrabs.co.uk.

Merry and Gay Folk Club at FuBar
2024-07-14 17:00 - 19:00 | 73 Union Street, Ryde, PO33 2LN, United Kingdom, 73 Union Street, Ryde, PO332LN, PO332LN
This event will be a sharing of folk songs, readings and poems all related to LGBTQ+ experiences. Open to all, performers welcome.
Price: Free
Please contact the organiser, Glenn, for more info – ynappok66@yahoo.co.uk
https://facebook.com/events/s/merry-and-gay-folk-club/1123041202045457/

Hear Me Now Workshop @ Ryde Library, Ryde, Isle of Wight
2024-07-21 11:00 - 14:00 | Ryde Library, George Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2JE, United Kingdom
The next Hear Me Now & @outonanislandiw writing workshop will be on Sunday 21 July, led by Niall Moorjann who will run a workshop at Ryde Library in RYDE.

Hear Me Now is a 6-month creative writing project for LGBTQ+ people and allies; Isle of Wight writers of all abilities are welcome and encouraged to take part in this series of free writing workshops, inspiring walks and inclusive talks organised to grow a supportive local writing community.
Funded by the Arts Council England, Hear Me Now is hosted Brevity, The Isle of Wight’s Literary Handbill, in collaboration with StoneCrabs Theatre.
The project aims to inspire Island writers, urging them to find and celebrate their unique writers’ voices within the safe, welcoming spaces of the workshops, walks and talks. Learning from a variety of diverse writers and creatives, Hear Me Nowseeks to introduce participants to short-form fiction, while inspiring them with compelling, inclusive and bold points of view. Along with one-to-one mentoring, participants will also have a chance to connect as a writing community. Short work created by participants will be considered for publication in the print edition of Brevity or on the Brevity website.
The project will wrap up with StoneCrabs Theatre co-producing a public performance of selected short stories, as well as audio recordings that will feature on Brevity’s website.
If you would like to learn more about the Hear Me Now project, email Caroline Diamond at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk or you can register for the free workshops/walks/talks via Brevity’s Contact Us/Submit Page.
You can learn more about StoneCrabs Theatre at www.stonecrabs.co.uk.

Free Online performance of "At the Rainbow’s End" by Clare Summerskill
2024-07-24 19:00 - 20:00 | online
A rehearsed reading of a new play by Clare Summerskill about older LGBTQI+ people’s experiences of social care. For Disability Pride Month.

Click here to register and attend:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/at-the-rainbows-end…

At the Rainbow’s End by Clare Summerskill is a hard-hitting and moving play, based entirely on interviews with older LGBTQI+ people about their real-life experiences of homophobia and transphobia in care settings and in their own home in later life. British Sign Language interpretation and live captions are available. Presented online by Together! 2012 CIC with the support of Regard, the national LGBTQI+ Disabled People’s Organisation www.regard.org.uk
Although some of the content of this piece makes for uncomfortable listening, this script-in-hand performance is intended to raise awareness of forms of discrimination that LGBTQI+ people fear and have experienced in care homes, care communities or in their own homes. It shines a light on the importance of understanding the specific challenges faced by older LGBTQI+ people. The play, presented by members of Artemis Theatre Company, seeks to raise awareness of this issue amongst the LGBTQ+ community and the wider public and also engage with the social care sector and encourage dialogue to develop learning, skills and confidence to address these challenges so that LGBTQ+ people can feel safe and able to be themselves in whatever place they live in and wherever they receive care.

Book Club & Coffee Social @ One Holyrood, Newport, Isle of Wight
2024-09-28 10:30 - 13:30 | One Holyrood, 1 - 4 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5AU, United Kingdom
Book Club & Coffee Social will be meeting at One Holyrood in Newport from 10.45am on Sat, 28 September 2024
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
The coffee social with breakfast or drinks will be taking place in the café from 10.30am. The book club will be meeting in the shed from 11.45am.
Note: One Holyrood stop serving breakfast at 11.30am.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date.
July’s book is Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson.
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit is a funny, poignant exploration of a young girl’s adolescence.
Jeanette is a bright and rebellious orphan who is adopted into an evangelical household in the dour, industrial North of England and finds herself embroidering grim religious mottoes and shaking her little tambourine for Jesus. But as this budding missionary comes of age, and comes to terms with her unorthodox sexuality, the peculiar balance of her God-fearing household dissolves. Jeanette’s insistence on listening to truths of her own heart and mind – and on reporting them with wit and passion – makes for an unforgettable chronicle of an eccentric, moving passage into adulthood.

Date: Saturday, 28 September 2024
Time: 10.30 am
Location: One Holyrood, Newport, Isle of Wight
Price: Free
July’s Book Selection: Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

Walk on the Wilde side of Ryde!
2024-10-13 10:30 - 12:00
Walk On The Wilde Side of Ryde – 1.4 miles
Celebrate Ryde’s LGBT History! Out On An Island volunteers talk about Oscar Wilde’s presence in Ryde and Royal photographers Jabez and Hughes. Hear your memories of Oz, now The Velvet Pig as we discuss what it’s like to be Out On The Island.

Meet at Ryde Town Hall 10.30am – walk ends at Appley Beach
More information/to reserve a place contact caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk

Please note this event is now sold out, but you can join a waiting list.

Building Bridges Launch Commemorating World Aids Day
2024-12-01 11:30 - 13:30 | Monkton Arts, 11 East Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 1JP, United Kingdom
Join us at Monkton Arts in Ryde as we commemorate World AIDS Day on Sunday December 1 from 11.30am until 1.30pm.

This event marks the launch of StoneCrabs’ exciting new three-year initiative Out On An Island – Building Bridges
We are delighted to have been awarded a grant by the National Lottery Community Fund to continue our work with the Island’s LGBTQ+ community enabling us to extend our outreach and training to organisations and businesses islandwide.
You can hear more about our plans for the new project and we would love to hear your ideas about the support you feel is needed for future LGBTQ+ groups. We will talk about LGBT History Month and our exhibition at Quay Arts, Newport in February 2025 featuring the Memorial Quilt, and more.
Soft drinks and refreshments will be provided and hot drinks can be purchased.
Please RSVP to caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk
with thanks to

Book Club & Coffee Social @ The Toolshed, One Holyrood, Newport
2025-01-25 10:30 - 13:30 | One Holyrood, 1 - 4 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5AU, United Kingdom
Our LGBT+ Book Club & Coffee Social will be meeting at One Hollywood in Newport from 10.30am on Sat, 25 January 2024
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
The book club will be meeting in the toolshed from 10.30am.
Note: One Holyrood stop serving breakfast at 11.30am.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date. This month we are reading The Betrayal of Thomas True by A J West.

It is the year 1710, and Thomas True has arrived on old London Bridge with a dangerous secret. One night, lost in the squalor of London’s hidden back streets, he finds himself drawn into the outrageous underworld of the molly houses. Meanwhile, carpenter Gabriel Griffin struggles to hide his double life as the molly’s stoic guard. When a young man is found murdered, he realises there is a rat amongst them, betraying their secrets to a pair of murderous Justices. Can Gabriel unmask the traitor before they hang? Can he save Thomas from peril, and their own forbidden love?

Date: Saturday, 25 January 2024
Time: 10.30 am
Location: One Holyrood, Newport, Isle of Wight
Price: Free
January’s Book Selection:The Betrayal of Thomas True by A J West.

Rainbow Island Meet Up @ Monkton Arts, Ryde, Isle of Wight
2025-02-02 11:30 - 13:30 | Monkton Arts, 11 East Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 1JP, United Kingdom
Pop Up Cafe Meet Up at Monkton Arts, Ryde
2 February – 11.30am
Join Rainbow Island from 11.30am for a relaxed social with tea, coffee and refreshments. Meet other LGBTQ+ people of all ages on the first Sunday of every month.
Admission and refreshments are free but donations are welcome.
Monkton Arts is fully accessible and dog-friendly.
If you have any queries, please contact caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk.
Date: Saturday, 2 February
Time: 11.30 am – 1.30pm
Location: Monkton Arts, Ryde, Isle of Wight
Price: Free

Out on an Island: Pride in Self, Pride in Place @ Quay Arts
2025-02-15 - 2025-03-16 | Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD, United Kingdom
A Celebration of Love, History and Social Change
‘Out On An Island: Pride In Self, Pride In Place’ is an exhibition to celebrate 20 years of LGBT History Month in the UK, presented by StoneCrabs’ Out On An Island Project.
Highlights include: the striking LGBT Memorial Quilt inspired by the AIDS Memorial Quilt, created by the Isle of Wight community; the IW LGBT+ Trail Map highlighting everyday lives and notable figures who shaped our community, a historical timeline of significant LGBTQ+ events and curated oral history interviews from the Island’s LGBTQ+ community in audio and film.
There will be workshops, including LGBT History Clubs and badge-making activities for all ages, participants are invited to participate in a badge design competition – 3 badge designs will be selected which will be reproduced to raise awareness and funds to support ongoing LGBTQ+ initiatives.
The ethos of ‘Pride In Self, Pride In Place’ encompasses standing confidently in your own story to cultivate community pride. LGBT+ History Month serves as a reminder of a history often ignored, it is a dedicated space to celebrate our rich and diverse history, herstory, theirstory.
Join us in honouring the struggles and triumphs that shape our present and future generations.
In the West Gallery, Quay Arts

Force of Nature @ Boojum and Snark
2025-02-19 11:00 - 13:00 | Boojum & Snark, 105 High Street, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8AF, United Kingdom
Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
When
First session: 19 February 2025 meet at Boojum & Snark, 105 High Street, Sandown, PO36 8AF 11 am on Wednesday. Dress for the outdoors with comfortable footwear. Other venues updated weekly.
The Bay – 5 Wednesdays from 19 February to March 19, 11 am – 1 pm
Freshwater – 5 Wednesdays from 21 May to 18 June – more information to follow.

Book Club & Coffee Social @ Quay Arts, Newport - Change of Venue for February
2025-02-22 10:30 - 13:30 | Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD, United Kingdom
Book Club & Coffee Social scheduled for February will be held at a different location. Instead of our usual gathering at One Holyrood, we will be meeting at Quay Arts in Newport on Saturday, 22 February 2025, starting at 10.30am
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date.
February’s book is Between The Stops by Sandi Toksvig

A funny and moving trip through memories, musings and the many delights on the Number 12 route, Between the Stops is also an inspiration to us all to get off our phones, look up and to talk to each other because as Sandi says: ‘some of the greatest trips lie on our own doorstep’.

Date: Saturday, 22 February 2025
Time: 10.30 am
Location: Quay Arts, Newport, Isle of Wight
Price: Free
February’s Book Selection: Between the Stops by Sandi Toksvig

Force of Nature @ Rare Breeds Farm
2025-02-26 11:00 - 13:00 | IOW Rare Breeds Farm, IOW Rare Breeds, Oaklea Farm, Alverstone, PO36 0EX, United Kingdom
The second Force of Nature session will be at the Rare Breeds Farm in Alverstone on Wednesday 26 January from 11am to 1pm. Join us for hands-on animal encounters and a tour of the unique location!
The event is free; all are welcome! Wellington boots/outdoor shoes and warm coats are recommended.
If you would like to join, let us know as spaces are limited and the farm will need to know attendance numbers in advance. Contact on 07793135045 or email the Project Lead, Rebecca Tremain, at rjtremain@gmail.com

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.

LGBTQ+ Meet-Up @ Quay Arts Cafe
2025-03-02 11:30 - 13:30 | Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD, United Kingdom
Join a friendly group for coffee and an informal, social chat from 11.30am on Sunday, March 2.
Please note the change of venue to Quay Arts Cafe for one month only, while the Pride in Self, Pride in Place exhibition is on.

Force of Nature @ Ventnor Botanic Gardens
2025-03-12 11:00 - 13:00 | Ventnor Botanic Gardens, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1UL, United Kingdom
The fourth Force of Nature session will be at Ventnor Botanic Gardens on Wednesday 12th March from 11am to 1pm. Join us for a walk around the unique setting and be inspired by the natural world.
All are welcome; please register your interest in advance. Contact on 07793135045 or email the Project Lead, Rebecca Tremain, at rjtremain@gmail.com

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
This project is part of ‘Discovering Landscapes’ a project by Isle of Wight National Landscape.

Force of Nature @ Yaverland
2025-03-19 11:00 - 13:00 | Boojum & Snark, 105 High Street, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8AF, United Kingdom
The fifth Force of Nature session will meet at Yaverland by the seafront cafe on Wednesday 19th March at 11am. Join us for a meander and a beachcomb, ending at Boojum and Snark for a coffee and a share of artwork inspired by the project.

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
This project is part of ‘Discovering Landscapes’ a project by Isle of Wight National Landscape.

Book Club & Coffee Social @ One Holyrood, Newport, Isle of Wight
2025-03-29 10:30 - 12:30 | One Holyrood, 1 - 4 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5AU, United Kingdom
Our LGBT+ Book Club & Coffee Social will be meeting at One Holyrood in Newport from 10.30am on Sat, 29 March 2025
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
The book club will be meeting in the toolshed from 10.30am.
Note: One Holyrood stop serving breakfast at 11.30am.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date.
The book is Bellies by Nicola Dinan.

LGBTQ+ Meet-Up @ The Department, Ryde
2025-04-05 10:30 - 12:30
Come along to meet a friendly group at our regular LGBTQ+ meet-up, held on the first Saturday of each month.
From now on, we will be meeting at the new venue of The Department in Ryde, in the meeting room on the first floor. This is an accessible venue, with a lift to the first floor, and dogs are also welcome. This month’s meeting will be on Saturday 5 April from 10.30am.

Book Club & Coffee Social @ One Holyrood, Newport, Isle of Wight
2025-04-26 10:30 - 12:30 | One Holyrood, 1 - 4 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5AU, United Kingdom
Our LGBT+ Book Club & Coffee Social will be meeting at One Holyrood in Newport from 10.30am on Sat, 26 April 2025.
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
The book club will be meeting in the toolshed from 10.30am.
Note: One Holyrood stop serving breakfast at 11.30am.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date.
The book is James and John by Chris Bryant.

May LGBTQ+ Meet-Up @ The Department
2025-05-03 10:30 - 12:30
Come along to meet a friendly group at our regular LGBTQ+ meet-up, held on the first Saturday of each month.
From now on, we will be meeting at the new venue of The Department in Ryde, in the meeting room on the first floor. This is an accessible venue, with a lift to the first floor, and dogs are also welcome. This month’s meeting will be on Saturday 3 May from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
Newcomers are always welcome!

LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories @ The Department
2025-05-20 17:30 - 19:30
StoneCrabs Theatre’s Out on an Island is excited to be embarking on a new project, funded by Historic England. Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories aims to uncover the hidden heritage of Ryde’s Union Street and a number of venues there, some of which no longer exist or operate under a new name. Eventually, the findings will be displayed in creative ways for people to learn about Ryde’s LGBTQ+ history.

Our heritage spaces can sometimes seem expensive and inaccessible, whereas this new community-led project aims to investigate everyday people and locations. All events and creative activities are free to attend and welcome to all.

StoneCrabs will work alongside the community to research previously overlooked stories, and will host informal discussions and sessions for people to enjoy. This will be an opportunity to meet new LGBTQ+ people and to learn about Ryde’s LGBTQ+ history.

The first meeting will be held on Tuesday May 20 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Department on Cross Street in Ryde, and refreshments will be available. The event will take place in the Fitting Room – a meeting room on the first floor which is accessible via a lift.

Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories is being funded by Historic England’s Everyday Heritage grant programme, celebrating working class histories.

For more information, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.

Force of Nature @ Dimbola Lodge
2025-05-21 11:00 - 13:00 | Dimbola Lodge, Terrace Lane, Freshwater, Isle of Wight, PO40 9QE, United Kingdom
The second round of Force of Nature sessions start with a meeting at Dimbola Lodge on Wednesday 21st May at 11am. Join us for a look at this unique location, and to be inspired by the surrounding nature. The next sessions will be held on the following Wednesdays in the Freshwater area. More details to follow!

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
This project is part of ‘Discovering Landscapes’ a project by Isle of Wight National Landscape.

Force of Nature @ Farringford Gardens
2025-05-28 11:00 - 13:00 | Farringford Gardens, Farringford Estate, Bedbury Lane, Freshwater, Isle of Wight, PO40 9PE, United Kingdom
The next Force of Nature session is at Farringford Gardens on May 28 from 11am to 1pm. Join us for a wander around these beautiful gardens, and be inspired by the surrounding nature. The next sessions will be held on the following Wednesdays in the Freshwater area.

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
This project is part of ‘Discovering Landscapes’ a project by Isle of Wight National Landscape.

Book Club & Coffee Social @ One Holyrood
2025-05-31 10:30 - 12:30 | One Holyrood, 1 - 4 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5AU, United Kingdom
Our LGBTQ+ Book Club & Coffee Social will be meeting at One Holyrood in Newport from 10.30am on Sat, 31 May 2025.
It’s a relaxed social meeting, so you can come along even if you haven’t read the book but would like to socialise and meet friendly folk.
The book club will be meeting in the toolshed from 10.30am.
Note: One Holyrood stop serving breakfast at 11.30am.
Please let us know if you can’t make it and if you have suggestions or any other queries, please contact Caroline at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk / 07786 080203.
You can also join the Book Club Facebook group to stay up to date.
The book is Pulp by Robin Talley.

Force of Nature @ Mottistone and the Longstone
2025-06-04 11:00 - 13:00 | Mottistone Manor, Mottistone Manor, Mottistone, Brighstone, Isle of Wight, PO40 4ED, United Kingdom
The next Force of Nature session meets at the entrance to Mottistone Manor on June 4 at 11am. We will be wandering around Mottistone and up to the Longstone. This is a unique and special location, alive with nature and stories, and will hopefully prompt inspiration for any creative artistic pursuits. The next sessions will be held on the following Wednesdays in the Freshwater area.
Please let us know in advance if you wish to attend these sessions. You can email the Project Lead, Rebecca Tremain, at rjtremain@gmail.com

Reconnect with Nature: Join StoneCrab’s Force of Nature Project!
Remember the joy of long summer days spent outdoors? The feel of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves, and the laughter shared with friends? In a world where we often confine ourselves to indoor spaces, StoneCrab’s new initiative, Force of Nature , invites you to join artists Rebecca Tremain and Katy Suggitt as we reconnect with the natural world—a concept that embodies the raw, untamed power of the environment that shapes and sustains us.
Connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
From January to June 2025, we’ll be creatively exploring areas of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) and connecting to the force and beauty of our surroundings.
This project aims to bring together Islanders of all ages and abilities, especially those who may find it challenging to engage with nature. Our goal is to foster a deep connection to our environment through a series of engaging outdoor sessions towards creating an artistic response.
What You Can Expect
Join us for 10 unique weekly sessions held on selected Wednesdays, where we will explore various sites in West Wight and the Bay Area. Participants will immerse themselves in nature using the senses. Sessions will be a mix of personal exploration and collaborative activities, allowing everyone to express their relationship with the Biosphere in a creative and enjoyable way.
Celebrating the Seasons
The project will commemorate two vibrant seasons—Spring and Summer—with public sharing events timed with the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Working alongside multidisciplinary artists, participants will collaborate in site-specific, creative responses inspired by the local geography.
This initiative not only seeks to reignite your love for nature but also promotes inclusion within the community. We invite anyone interested in this journey of discovery and creativity to join us.
This project is part of ‘Discovering Landscapes’ a project by Isle of Wight National Landscape.

June LGBTQ+ Meet-Up @ The Department
2025-06-07 10:30 - 13:30
Come along to meet a friendly group at our regular LGBTQ+ meet-up, held on the first Saturday of each month.
We meet at Department in Ryde, in the Fitting Room on the first floor. This is an accessible venue, with a lift to the first floor, and dogs are also welcome.
This month’s meeting will be on Saturday 7 June from 10.30am. From now on, we will be extending this meet-up by one hour to finish at 1.30pm. From 12.30pm to 1.30pm, we will be focusing more on our new Historic England-funded project, Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories.
About Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories:

Celebrating LGBTQ+ Working Class Histories aims to uncover the hidden heritage of Ryde’s Union Street and a number of venues there, some of which no longer exist or operate under a new name. Eventually, the findings will be displayed in creative ways for people to learn about Ryde’s LGBTQ+ history.

Our heritage spaces can sometimes seem expensive and inaccessible, whereas this new community-led project aims to investigate everyday people and locations. All events and creative activities are free to attend and welcome to all.

StoneCrabs will work alongside the community to research previously overlooked stories, and will host informal discussions and sessions for people to enjoy. This will be an opportunity to meet new LGBTQ+ people and to learn about Ryde’s LGBTQ+ history.
