Theatre-goers on the Island may be familiar with the Apollo Theatre, a tiny but perfectly formed theatre in Newport’s Pyle Street, which recently celebrated its fiftieth anniversary of providing good theatre to the Isle of Wight. 

Throughout those years the Apollo Players have devoted themselves to improving the facilities throughout the theatre – in particular recently installing a complete set of LED stage lights to replace the old, energy-inefficient ones, most of which had been in place since the theatre was converted from a Methodist chapel in 1970.  However, one of the downsides of the beautiful and characterful interior, which is Grade 2 listed, is that it has always been difficult to access for patrons and members with disabilities. 

However, the Trust, which owns the building, has now been able to install a stairlift backstage to enable performers with a disability – both members and hirers of the theatre – to get to and from the dressing-room.  This has made a big difference to several existing members already and the theatre looks forward to welcoming more.  The Apollo is serious about inclusivity and looks to break down the barriers that prevent people from following their ambitions.