Isle of Wight theatre to screen top London West End shows

Announcing itself as a National Theatre Live venue, the 130-seater Apollo Theatre on Pyle Street in Newport will screen some of London's West End's top shows this year.

There will be eight transmissions a year, starting with James Graham’s hit play Dear England on January 25, which depicts the journey of England men’s football manager Gareth Southgate – played by Joseph Fiennes – from his Euro 96 penalty miss to leading the team to success in recent years.

This will be followed by Vanya, Simon Stephen’s radical new version of Anton Chekhov’s play, starring Andrew Scott, on February 22.

Actors Joseph Fiennes and Andrew Scott (Image: National Theatre)

Ginnie Orrey, spokesperson for the Apollo Theatre, said: “National Theatre Live at the Apollo is a really exciting treat to bring to theatre lovers on the Island.

“The ambience of our beautiful theatre in Newport is just right for these kind of productions – and you will always have the best seat in the house, without having to catch a ferry!” 

Tickets are available at the Apollo Theatre website, and new performances will be announced throughout the year.