CAN YOU HEAR US? Opening Ceremony

Join us for a special evening as we kick off an incredible six-week celebration of creativity and culture on the Isle of Wight. Step into the Big Top and discover live music, circus and special guests from across the programme, as we mark the opening with a party to which everyone is invited.

CAN YOU HEAR US? is a six-week celebration of creativity and culture taking place across the Isle of Wight from 11th September to 24th October. Bringing together film, food, craft, public art, music, theatre, nature connection, shared meals and carnival, the programme celebrates artists, schools, communities and more than 50 partner organisations.

Launching as part of CAN YOU HEAR US?, the Ventnor Exchange Arena is a new travelling venue that will bring arts, culture and community together across the Isle of Wight, becoming home to performances, conversations and creative experiences in Newport, Sandown and beyond.

 

BOOK TICKETS

 

Venue: Ventnor Exchange Arena (Victoria Recreation Ground, Newport, P030 5AH)

This is a standing event with some limited seating available reserved for access requirements.

Tickets: General Admission £13

 

GETTING HERE AND PARKING
There is very limited parking on site. For performances and larger events, please use one of the nearby car parks below and allow extra time to walk to the venue.

Britannia Parking Group, Hearn Street, Newport, PO30 5HA
Around 11 minutes walk. 150 spaces. £3 for up to 3 hours.
Carisbrooke High Street Car Park, PO30 1NR
Around 12 minutes walk. 48 spaces. First hour free with a ticket, then charges apply.
Lugley Street Car Park, 60–66 Lugley Street, Newport, PO30 5EL
Around 12 minutes walk. 126 spaces. £4.10 for up to 2 hours, £6.15 for up to 3 hours.
Parking charges and availability may change, so please check signs when you arrive.

If you are driving, we recommend heading directly to one of these car parks.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT
The nearest bus stop is Simeon Monument, Carisbrooke Road, around a 2-minute walk from the venue. Newport Bus Station is around a 15-minute walk away. For local bus routes and live travel information, visit Southern Vectis: https://www.islandbuses.info/Accessibility

 

ACCESSIBILITY
Steps

The Arena has a ramp entrance available with all seats on Row B step free. There are also two designated wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets will be available.

Carers/Assistants

Ventnor Exchange are happy to provide free tickets to carers/assistants. Please let them know when you book, and they will issue a complimentary ticket.