THE Ventnor Exchange team has kickstarted the new year by confirming plans for a Covid-safe Ventnor Fringe to return this summer.

They have announced a special extended event from July 23 to August 1, 2021.

Over ten full days the festival will once again be transforming spaces across the Island’s southernmost town to host it’s unique and creative programme of live events — spanning theatre, music, film and art.

There is a good reason for extending the event from its normal six to ten days.

Festival co-director Jack Whitewood explained: “While we’re confident that a gradual return of live events will take place as the year progresses, this year will undoubtedly be different to normal.

"Extending to ten days will allow us to make up for the reduced capacities caused by social distancing, with acts giving additional performances instead.

"We’ll be spreading the whole event out, both physically and over a longer duration, to ensure it’s a safe and accessible experience for everyone.”

Isle of Wight County Press: Barney Artist at a previous Ventnor Fringe. Picture by Julian Winslow.Barney Artist at a previous Ventnor Fringe. Picture by Julian Winslow.

Over the past ten years, Ventnor Fringe has grown into a key date in the Island’s calendar, attracting artists from all over the country and internationally to showcase new work, often as previews ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe.

Alongside many free events, shows are individually ticketed and sold through Ventnor Exchange.