Think Creative

The Villagers are based in Gosport in Hampshire, and began life in 1986 with a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Little Woodham (‘The 17th Century Village’). Every year since we have put on an open air production of one of Shakespeare’s plays, in Little Woodham and – in recent years – elsewhere across Southern England. Our aim is to enjoy ourselves, and to share some of that enjoyment with our audiences.

At the University of Winchester, we believe in the transformative power of culture and creativity. As a local anchor institution, we are dedicated to building a thriving and dynamic community where art, celebration of our heritage, and innovation flourish. Collaboration is the key to creating meaningful societal, civic, and community-based benefits. By embedding ourselves with our local community and businesses, we aim to facilitate opportunities for mutual growth and innovation. By supporting local organisations and businesses, attracting talented individuals, and enriching the lives of our students, staff and residents, we are confident that we can help make our region flourish.

Winchester Poetry Festival – a registered charity – is a local and national poetry community that inspires and excites everyone to read, write, perform, and enjoy poetry in all its forms. Our work ranges from our acclaimed biennial festival and our popular competitions, to our wider year-round engagement work with community organisations and schools. We share, showcase, celebrate, and champion great poetry because we believe in its power to bring us all together and make a positive, enriching difference to our lives and to our society. We collaborate with a wide range of partners and businesses – including with Hampshire Cultural Trust and the work of the Hampshire Poet – and and we act as a local. national & international hub for poetry.