The Island’s Got Talent brought together performers from across the Isle of Wight at East Cowes Town Hall on Sunday (1st March), with a coveted slot at Cowes Fringe up for grabs.
The live music showcase formed part of the build-up to this year’s Cowes Fringe festival and featured a variety of pop, rock and folk performances, including both original songs and well-known covers.
Taking the overall title was Jennie Vacher, whose rendition of “Simply The Best” secured her a performance slot at Cowes Fringe 2026 during the Mountbatten Gala Evening in May.
Local band Razor were named Judge’s Choice Runner-Up for their original track, “Dumb Love”, impressing the panel with their songwriting and live performance.
The Judge’s Choice Young Rising Star award went to Mio for a folk-inspired cover of a song by Lana Del Rey, praised for stage presence and interpretation.
Courtney claimed the Performer’s Choice Award, decided by audience vote, following her performance of “I See Red” by Everybody Loves an Outlaw, which drew strong support from the crowd.
Acts were assessed by a judging panel that included Nigel Hartley MBE, Patron of Cowes Fringe and former CEO of Mountbatten Hospice; BRIT Award winner James Newman, who represented the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest 2021; Hannah Brear, leader of Medina Community Choir; and DJ JAMRoKi, an emerging Isle of Wight DJ who has performed at major UK festivals.
Judges scored each act and provided written feedback. All competitors are set to receive their individual comments and scores by email within the next week.
The afternoon was compered by Chris Quinton. Thanks have been extended to Wight TV for filming the showcase, with footage due to be released in due course.
The event was hosted by East Cowes Town Council, with refreshments provided by Artisan Bakery.
The full programme for Cowes Fringe will be announced in the coming weeks. Cowes Fringe 2026 is scheduled to take place from 22nd – 24th May.
More information can be found at www.cowesfringe.com. For further details, email [email protected].
