A historic theatre in Brading is set to be brought back to life after Isle of Wight community theatre group Tide Nor Time Players secured a permanent home at the town’s Bull Ring Theatre.
The group has announced that it will now be based at the theatre within Brading Town Hall, marking a new chapter for the organisation as it looks to expand its productions and community activities.
Tide Nor Time Players has thanked Brading Town Council and Mayor Paul Garratt for providing the opportunity to revive the historic venue and establish a dedicated home for local performers.
The group, which promotes inclusion and diversity through the performing arts, has previously staged a number of productions, including an original musical about the Isle of Wight’s last witch, Molly Downer, as part of Ventnor Fringe.
It has also performed A Christmas Carol, which will now return to the stage at its new Brading home on 12th December and 13th December.
The festive production will mark one of the group’s first major performances at the Bull Ring Theatre, with tickets set to be made available online.
Meanwhile, younger performers will also have their chance to shine, with the newly announced Bullring Youth Theatre preparing to stage a pantomime entitled Princess Poppy and the Royal Rumpus this December.
The youth theatre will operate under the Tide Nor Time Players umbrella, providing opportunities for young people to develop their confidence and theatrical abilities.
A new leadership team has also been confirmed, with Candy Cassidy taking on the roles of Chairwoman and Director, supported by Deputy Director Simon Bucher-Jones.
Matthew Sill will serve as Safeguarding Lead and Head of Technology Production, while Marilyn Bersey takes on the role of Secretary. All 4 will also share treasury responsibilities.
Looking further ahead, the group has ambitious plans for 2027, including a varied programme of plays, musicals, family entertainment and youth productions.
Summer events are also being considered, with live music, comedy, community showcases and creative workshops among the activities the group hopes to introduce.
The aim is to establish the Bull Ring Theatre as a cultural hub for Brading, creating opportunities for residents to get involved both on stage and behind the scenes.
Tide Nor Time Players also hopes to develop partnerships with local schools, businesses, artists and community organisations to make the venue an inclusive space for people of all ages.
Further details of the group’s 2027 programme, including performance dates and ticket information, will be announced in due course.
More information about Tide Nor Time Players can be found at www.tidenortime.uk.
