Isle of Wight ferry operator, Wightlink, is giving the arts a boost, with its 2024 sponsorship scheme, now in its 37th year.
In total, 18 arts groups will receive supported cross-Solent travel from the ferry company throughout the year.
The aim is to make it easier for them to travel to the mainland for events, as part of the Wightlink in the Community initiative.
Theatre groups, musicians and individuals are represented.
Among them is the Ryde-based performing arts academy, Curtain Call Creative.
It has produced some acclaimed stage shows, including Nativity! The Musical, Les Miserables, 9 to 5: The Musical, Made In Dagenham, Bugsy Malone and Alice in Wonderland.
Its next production will be Legally Blonde, at Shanklin Theatre, between April 11-14.
From the group which recently celebrated its fourth birthday, Abigail Hennings said: "We're delighted. It's a great to be working closer with them to support our students.
"The whole Curtain Call Creative team shares a true dedication and passion for supporting young people in experiencing musical theatre and performance — whether that's by being on stage, in the audience or supporting backstage.
"Wightlink's sponsorship will help us access more opportunities further afield."
Also on the list is East Cowes's Fusion Arts Academy.
Gifted artists including 19-year-old pianist, Thomas Luke, West End actor Anna Constable, Italia Conti student Ebb Phillips, performer Ava Cowan and ballet dancer, Amelie Jones will all be supported.
There is backing too for the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra, Ryde's New Carnival Company, Platform One College of Music, Quay Arts in Newport and Shademakers UK, which is based in Ryde.
Shanklin's Joel Morris Dance Academy will get support, along with the Julia Margaret Cameron Trust, which runs Freshwater Bay's Dimbola Museum and Galleries.
Both Shanklin and Medina theatres, the hireable performing arts space, MLD Studio and the West Wight Arts Association will also benefit.
House Rules
We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.
Read the rules here