A new chapter in Island youth theatre begins this summer, as Light UP, a Hampshire-based performing arts charity, prepares to launch its first Isle of Wight branch in September.
Ahead of its official launch, the group is offering two themed drama workshops this August, giving young people, aged 7 to 16, a chance to get creative through storytelling, improvisation, and performance. The sessions will be led by Island resident and experienced theatre educator, Donna Steele.
Weekly Light UP Isle of Wight classes will begin in Ryde from September this year, aiming to boost young people’s confidence, creativity and communication skills in a supportive, fun environment.
The first workshop, Marvellous Mischief: A Dahl-ightful Drama Day, takes place on Tuesday, August 19, from 10am to 4pm at The Department in Ryde. Aimed at ages 7 till 11, it will explore characters from Roald Dahl’s stories and end with a family-friendly performance.
The second, Isle of Fright: Drama from the Dark Side of the Island, runs on Tuesday, August 26, for ages 12 to 16. Also at The Department, it promises a day of drama inspired by local legends and ghost stories, finishing with a showcase at 3.30pm.
Both workshops are open to all levels of experience. They can be booked via iw.observer/light-up. For enquiries, contact Donna at Donna@lightupdrama.org.uk, or visit the Light UP IOW Community Group on Facebook.


