In February, we invite you to celebrate LGBT+ History Month with us. We will be exhibiting at Department through the month and hosting an event in the Barn, Department’s theatre space in Ryde, showcasing our recent projects that form part of the Out on an Island programme.
Since 2018, StoneCrabs Theatre have worked to uncover the Isle of Wight’s hidden LGBT+ history. The team and over one hundred volunteers have produced an award-winning book, exhibitions and a LGBT+ Memorial Quilt. We also offer regular meet-ups, such as a monthly social and book club, as well as community support, including groups for the transgender and non-binary community.
LGBT+ Faces + Places map at Department
Throughout February, in Department’s exhibition space on the ground floor, the LGBT+ Faces + Places map will be on display. This piece, designed by Spike Spondike in collaboration with Out on an Island, signposts Isle of Wight venues and LGBT+ people from across the island. Historical figures such as Virginia Woolf are shown, as well as contemporary voices such as Karl Love and Robin Ford.
The LGBT+ Faces + Places map on display during the Pride in Self, Pride in Place exhibition at Quay Arts, 2025.
Short Films Night
On February 12, from 7pm, there will be a relaxed celebration event in the Barn, Department’s theatre space. This will include an exclusive screening of our Faces + Places performed walks, highlighting the lives of LGBT+ historical figures associated with the Isle of Wight. These were all written by local authors: Wilde in Ryde by Jason Watts, Woolf in Freshwater by Cody Pevreall, Mew in Newport by Katie Daysh, and Ferguson’s Gang in Newtown by Anmarie Bowler.
These sell-out walks were captured by rising local filmmaker Sam Lapham and directed by Rebecca Tremain, with powerful performances from Si Lynch, Emily Scotcher, Hillard Morley, and Krysia Mansfield.
Places are limited and so early booking is recommended. Tickets are on a donation basis, and are available here.
Celebrating LGBT+ Working Class Histories
The event at Department will also showcase our Historic England-funded Celebrating LGBT+ Working Class Histories project. This investigates the LGBT+ heritage of Ryde and a number of venues, some of which no longer exist. We will, in future, be presenting our findings in exciting ways, including a zine and an audio trail.
Why should we celebrate LGBT+ History Month?
As LGBT+ rights are withdrawn and eroded worldwide, there is a need to remind ourselves that LGBT+ people exist in all walks of life. LGBT+ History Month was started in the UK following the repeal of Section 28 in 2003. An organisation called Schools OUT was formed, made up of teachers, one of whom was sacked from his job as a teacher for being gay. Section 28 prohibited the teaching of LGBT+ issues in schools and its shadow was felt long after its repeal.
Schools OUT works to educate out prejudice and to usualise LGBT+ lives. LGBT+ History Month is for claiming the past, celebrating the present and creating the future. It is a reminder that LGBTQ+ people have always been around.
Free training and information
StoneCrabs offers training for schools and organisations in how to work with those who identify as LGBT+ and how best to support someone who may be questioning their gender or sexuality. All our free sessions for February are now fully booked but please get in touch if you would like to book a session from March onwards.
There is also training available in ‘How to be an Ally” for anyone who wants to confidently support the LGBT+ community. The team receives many referrals from individuals, organisations and groups.
If you would like to book a session or to learn more, please contact Caroline Diamond at caroline@stonecrabs.co.uk