Ventnor Fringe will be back for 2022.

The organisers of the annual eclectic arts festival, which takes over Ventnor Park, have revealed it will return from Friday July 22 until Sunday July 31.

Meanwhile, Horsebox Theatre company has won the first ever Audience Choice Award, for a satirical comedy called 'The People’s Republic of the Isle of Wight.'

The Rouse Ltd Financial Planning-sponsored award went to the performance group headed up by artistic director Joe Plumb.

The People’s Republic of the Isle of Wight focused on a campaign for Island Independence, incorporating plenty of in-jokes and audience interaction, in the form of citizenship tests.

Starring Joe Plumb and Fanny Quivers, it sold out Ventnor Fringe’s Comedy and Cabaret Tent.

Joe Plumb said: “Thank you so much to all the beautiful Islanders who voted!

"It goes to show the overwhelming support there is for Independence on the Isle of Wight.

"This is just the beginning. First Ventnor, next… the world!"

Isle of Wight County Press: Joe Plumb with his Ventnor Fringe Audience Choice award.Joe Plumb with his Ventnor Fringe Audience Choice award.

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The award was designed and created by artist Brian Marriott, using fused glass and carved wood.

There was also a cash prize, provided by Rouse Ltd Financial Planning.

Ben Rouse said: "The Fringe is the culmination of so much hard work and vision and provides much needed joy and happiness to more and more people.

"Rouse Ltd is Isle of Wight grown and we just wanted to help support this fantastic event with the Audience Choice Award.

"Well done to Joe on being the first winner and thank you Mhairi, Jack and all the team for letting us contribute in some small way.

"Fringe on!"

  • Registrations for artists wanting to take part in 2022 will open shortly.