IW Theatre are proud to support the rich amateur theatre scene on the Isle of Wight. For a number of years we have been repeatedly asked if we would support an annual awards programme. We have attempted to realise this request, but only with the support of the Island amateur theatre groups.
Background
In June 2022, amateur and community theatre groups across the Isle of Wight were invited to contribute to, and ratify, proposals to establish an awards programme. It was decided that such a programme will need to be tested and developed, and should be trialled in its first year. It was agreed that IW Theatre would recruit a team of independent judges, who would have experience in amateur theatre, but would have (ideally) no active involvement in Island theatre productions during the judging period.
It was unanimously agreed, that such an awards programme would be inspired by, and in tribute to John Hannam, a true patron of amateur theatre on the Island.
Feedback from the Island amateur theatre community has been very positive during this trial year. We look forward to not only celebrating the winners, but also engaging further with the Island amateur theatre community to share learning and build proposals for a stronger awards programme for 2024.
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