IOW Biosphere Festival and Craft101 East Cowes….
… present: ‘Andy Roberts Unplugged’
Welcome to the Biosphere Blog page by Andy Roberts – songwriter, permaculture gardener and storyteller based on the Isle of Wight. This space explores the links between music, nature, self-reliance and the rhythms of the land, inspired by life within the Isle of Wight’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
What’s this?
A free-entry concert style gig with unplugged acoustic guitar and exclusive craft beers as part of the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival, 2025
When: Saturday June 28th 2025 from 7.30-9.30pm
Where:
Craft101
1a Clarence Road East Cowes. PO32 6EP
(Signed as The Old Curiosity Shop)
Link: https://craft101.co.uk/
Description:
Island singer songwriter and gigging musician Andy Roberts performs an entirely unplugged set of foot tapping original songs and some less usual covers in a wonderful new venue which also happens to serve exclusive local craft beers from its own “Island Life” nanobrewery!
This is a chance to hear the sound of real analogue music in a cosy setting amongst fellow aficionados, performed by a musician who earned his chops in the days of clubs without microphones and street buskers without amps.
Expect a mixture of thoughtful lyrics set to soaring melodies and some catchy upbeat ballads from the contemporary folk blues stable. Come and enjoy an evening of quality free entertainment whilst sampling exclusive island brewed beers.
How to get there?
Public transport is via buses from Newport(5) and Ryde(4), or via the famous Floating Bridge from Cowes, or from the mainland via Red Funnel car ferry from Southampton to E. Cowes.
Street parking in Clarence Road or free parking on the Esplanade.
Further descriptions:
Andy Roberts – Unplugged at Craft101
When. Saturday 28th June , 7:30–9:30 PM at Craft101, Clarence Road, East Cowes
Free entry
An intimate evening of songs, stories and acoustic vibes at East
Cowes’ independent craft beer shop and nanobrewery.
Singer-songwriter Andy Roberts brings his thoughtful lyrics, timeless tunes and warm stage presence to this unplugged zero carbon performance in the heart of the town of East Cowes, Isle of Wight.
Blending original material with classic acoustic favourites, Andy’s
music invites connection—with place, with people, and with the quieter
rhythms of Island life. This special gig is part of the Isle of Wight
Biosphere Festival, celebrating local creativity, community, and our
shared environment.
Craft101’s own small-batch beers, brewed just a few doors away, offer
the perfect taste of local innovation. Come early to grab a pint or
half and enjoy the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Gig details
Event Details: Andy Roberts Unplugged
Date: Saturday, 28th June 2025
Time: 7:30–9:30 PM
Venue: Craft101, 1a Clarence Road, East Cowes. Free Entry
Connection to the Biosphere Principles:
Celebrate Local Distinctiveness
The performance features original songs and unique covers that reflect the Island’s rich musical heritage. The unplugged setting at Craft101 offers a close up, authentic experience, celebrating the Island’s unique character and
community spirit with zero carbon acoustic sounds.
Embrace a New Economy:
Hosting the event at Craft101, a venue that supports local craft beer from its own “Island Life” nanobrewery, underscores the importance of local enterprises and sustainable economic practices within the self contained Biosphere.
Build a Liveable Island:
By offering a free, accessible event, we aim to foster community engagement and provide a space where residents and visitors can connect through music, enhancing social well-being.
Value Our Island Heritage
The unplugged nature of the performance pays homage to traditional music practices, echoing the Island’s musical heritage and the importance of preserving cultural traditions.
Share Biosphere Knowledge
The event serves as a platform to raise awareness about the Biosphere’s values, encouraging attendees to reflect on the interconnectedness of culture, community, and the environment.
Andy Roberts 