By Observer Features
The Tide Nor Time Players presents Wyrd Wight Tales, a spellbinding production that dives into the Island’s folklore. This series of narratives, woven with threads of supernatural and eerie, promise an unforgettable journey.
Wyrd Wight Tales is a tribute to the Island’s oral traditions, a nod to the days when tales were shared around flickering firesides to entertain and chill the bones. Each story within this anthology has been carefully selected to represent the diverse and haunting folklore of the Island.
The production opens, presented by Valentine Gray, a young apprentice chimney sweep whose life was cut short under mysterious and brutal circumstances. Told with wit and sarcasm, it starts the journey into the Island’s past.
Audiences will then be introduced to Ann Penny, a scorned woman from Ryde who sought vengeance and is said to haunt Culver Down. This is followed by the poignant story of Little Jane Squibb, a girl from Brading overshadowed by her smuggler father, who tragically succumbed to tuberculosis at a young age.
The anthology also includes The Blood Witch and Red Babe, a chilling account of a woman who, in her grief over losing her child, ventures into the realms of angels, demons, and witchcraft. In Warts and All, viewers witness the final moments of Oliver Cromwell, allegedly visited by the ghost of Princess Elizabeth.
Creepy Dolls brings to life an old wives’ tale about the consequences of neglecting one’s toys, while The Adoption follows the child from The Blood Witch and Red Babe on an eerie journey through the faerie world.
Lastly, The Raven Dream offers a captivating portrayal of the Islanders’ belief in the ravens’ connection to death and demons, featuring original ballet and poetry.
Wyrd Wight Tales will be performed on Saturday, July 27, from 6pm at Pier Street Playhouse. For information on ticket prices and to book, visit vfringe.co.uk.