The List

Colchester Arts Centre

The venue promotes a wide range of contemporary performing arts including comedy theatre and live music covering folk, world, pop and rock as well as children's workshops and farmers' markets. The centre has showcased several big names on their road to stardom including Eddie Izzard, Graham Norton, The Libertines and The Killers. There is no parking outside the venue in Church Street, except for performers/contractors loading in and out but parking is available on St Mary's Car Park on Balkerne Hill. The nearest railway station is Colchester Town.

What's On @ Colchester Arts Centre

Nine Below Zero

Nine Below Zero

5 Jun 2025 - 20 Feb 2026

One of the UK’s finest Rhythm ’n’ Blues bands, Nine Below Zero formed in 1979 and named themselves after the famous Sonny Boy Williamson song.
Ian Prowse

Ian Prowse

2 May 2025 - 6 Dec 2025

Liverpool legend Ian Prowse makes a most welcome return. It's been a busy time for Ian. When he's not been on the road with his band Amsterdam for The Plough Tour, he was appearing as special guest for Elvis Costello & The Imposters on their "Boy Named If" tour. Take this opportunity to see his solo show where you can look forward to him performing old favourites like the iconic " Does This Train Stop on Merseyside?" through to songs from his new album and everything inbetween!
Fleetwood Bac

Fleetwood Bac

2 May 2025 - 28 Feb 2026

Fleetwood Bac were the world's first Fleetwood Mac tribute show. The classic Mac sound, the look, the mystical atmosphere and that infamous on-stage chemistry are all portrayed with the passion and energy that got them the ultimate seal of approval from the real Fleetwood Mac members including Mick 'Big Daddy' Fleetwood and original Mac guitarist Peter Green!
The Style Councillors

The Style Councillors

2 May 2025 - 28 Mar 2026

The world's only tribute to the mighty Style Council, a full 11 piece line-up replicating the very best from probably the best pop group in the world! The Style Councillors are the ultimate tribute to The Style Council. With Swirling Hammond Organ and a classic horn section, The Style Councillors are as close as it gets to actually being there. They will take you right back to the beginning for a trip through one of Paul Weller's arguably best periods as a songwriter.
Faux Fighters

Faux Fighters

2 May 2025 - 4 Oct 2025

The Faux Fighters is the brain child of front man Jamie Deighton who spent 12 months in Seattle back in the mid 90's and discovered the then newly formed Foo Fighters. 10 years later he finally put together a tribute to his hero. The band played it's first gig in November 2008 and toured up and down the UK for 5 years gigging tribute venues, festivals and private functions. Following a 2 year break the band are back together, bigger and better. Expect all the Foo's classics and some album tracks for the hard-core fans. The UK's ultimate tribute to the Foo Fighters with a look and sound a like Dave Grohl bring the feel of a stadium gig to your venue.
Clearwater Creedence Revival

Clearwater Creedence Revival

1 May 2025 - 9 May 2026

Selling out at venues all over the world, Clearwater Creedence Revival feature road-hardened players who, collectively have performed with – Stax legend Steve Cropper, Big Country, Denny Laine (Wings, Moody Blues), Eric Haydocks Hollies, Animals And Friends, Alan Silson (Smokie), Wayne Fontana’s Mindbenders and more. Together, they are the best celebration of the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and Fogerty you’re ever likely to see – and a band selling out all over the world, as audiences in Germany, Israel,Russia, Holland, Scandinavia, UK and more will attest! A tribute band like no other.
Shakatak

Shakatak

28 Jul 2025 - 16 Oct 2025

After a number of successful top-twenty singles in the UK, the band went on to score unprecedented international success with the release of the classic ‘Nightbirds” recording and the title track has now become a standard in the popular music repertoire. This success was repeated with the top-ten hit “Down on the Street and the award-winning video established the band’s personnel of Jill Saward(lead vocs), Bill Sharpe(keys),Keith Winter(gtr), George Anderson(bass) and Roger Odell(drums). With the magic Al Jarreau/Shakatak combination,the group went on to record the track ‘Day by Day’ to further international acclaim. Along with this successful recording career, Shakatak had firmly established themselves as a vibrant live act, combining astute musicianship with a sense of fun that communicated strongly with world-wide audiences. Their performance in Japan’s Budoken Hall won them a Silver Award at the Tokyo International Song Festival-other awards include the “Best Instrumental Album’ for 6 consecutive years-and other live concerts of note have been the East meets the West Border Concert at the time of German re-unificationin 1989 and the open air concert in Cape Town for the Millennium Celebrations 2000 where they played in front of 250,000 people.Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely paralleled in contemporary music – but then Shakatak is a particularly unusual group. Because of the nature of their music, their fan base is one that is far reaching while always retaining an ‘underground element’. This paradox sees the band, who are known primarily as serious jazz/funk musicians, enjoying both high ‘cult’ status and instant recognition as a household name.
Viggo Venn: British Comedian

Viggo Venn: British Comedian

3 Jun 2025 - 3 Aug 2025

Norwegian clown Viggo Venn moved to this country with one dream: to be a British comedian. The rest, you already know about. After blowing away the competition in an explosion of hi-vis jackets, balloons, and joyous idiocy, Viggo became the most talked-about new entertainer in the country by winning Britain's Got Talent in June 2023.
King King

King King

16 May 2025 - 2 Nov 2025

Throughout the music industry King King is a name synonymous with, not only great music and outstanding musicianship, but with, and perhaps even more importantly, having a damn good time every time. King King’s music is the kind of music that makes people happy. And let’s face it, especially in these all too dark and difficult times, who doesn’t want to be happy? Not convinced? It’s simple. Come along to a show and find out for yourself.
The Brit Funk Association

The Brit Funk Association

14 Jun 2025 - 14 Jun 2025

All-Star Brit Funk Supergroup featuring members of Beggar & Co, Hi-Tension, Central Line and ex-members of Light of the World & Incognito. The Brit-Funk genre started in the late 1970's and was a catch-all phrase coined by Record Mirror Magazine's James Hamilton to describe the distinctive mix of jazz-fusion-funk-disco music being made by UK bands such as Level 42, Light of the World, Freeez, Shakatak, Central Line, Hi-Tension, Morrissey / Mullen, Second Image, Direct Drive, Linx and Incognito. The Brit-Funk Association is a new project featuring musicians from Beggar & Co, Central Line, Hi-Tension and ex-members of Light of the World and Incognito to perform from each of the band's back catalogue such as "Time", "Somebody (Help Me Out)", "Walking Into Sunshine", "Hi-Tension", "British Hustle", "There's a Reason", "I'm So Happy", "London Town", "Nature Boy", "Everyday" and choice selections of band's that influenced them by acts such as Mass Production, Kool & The Gang, Roy Ayers Ubiquity etc
Who's Next

Who's Next

16 May 2025 - 19 Feb 2026

Who's Next are Europe's premier live tribute to The Who. They capture a magical point in time when many believe that The Who were the greatest rock and roll band on earth. Who's Next's live show aims to recreate this period in the early 1970's with the aid of authentic stage wear and instruments. The result is a time machine ride back to the days of Live at Leeds, The Isle of Wight Festival, Tanglewood and the Fillmore shows. Who's Next perform Quadrophenia in its entirety. The show is a multi-media experience incorporating film and music as the audience are treated to Jimmy's musings as his story unfolds. This classic rock opera features such gems as The Real Me, Bell Boy, 5:15, Drowned and the ultimate rock ballad Love Reign O'er Me. The work is delivered with passion and great attention to detail. The Greatest Hits set includes all of Pete Townshend's classic pop songs from adrenaline-fuelled Mod classics such as I can't explain, Substitute and Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere to the psychedelic imagery of Tommy's Pinball Wizard, Sparks and Amazing Journey, not forgetting rock anthems like My Generation, Baba O'Riley and a show-stopping version of Won't Get Fooled Again. Who's Next have been touring the UK and Europe since 2003 and are widely regarded as the premier tribute to The Who. It is a must see for any Who fan!
London Calling: A Tribute to The Clash
London Calling - A tribute to the only band that mattered. Consisting of 4 guys from Bristol, London Calling put on a performance with energy and enthusiasm recreating the sound and intensity of The Clash. All the guys genuinely love the band and put their all into each show. London Calling over some 10 years have gigged all across the UK, Europe and the USA.
Laurence Jones

Laurence Jones

23 May 2025 - 7 Jun 2025

Although Laurence doesn’t need too much of an introduction in the music business, for those that haven’t had the chance to see him yet, it’s well worth sharing a thing or two about this artist! He sings, he plays and he writes -- a triple craft -- and he does so like a veteran twice his age, but absolutely no ego and with both feet firmly on the ground! Hailed as 'one to watch' as a teenager by the blues media, concert/festival bookers, blues fans and various guitar stars alike, young Laurence really has come of age. The blues cub has become a man with a plan, turning heads and making jaws drop with his take-no-prisoners, incendiary live set and stunning records. Laurence and his crack band -- Jones on vocals and guitars, Roger Inniss on bass and Phil Wilson on drums -- put the power into power trio, with their modern day blues rock with an edge.
Luke Combs Experience

Luke Combs Experience

2 May 2025 - 21 Mar 2026

The Luke Combs Experience. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with amazing music and good vibes as we welcome the UKs best tribute band to country superstar Luke Combs. Get ready to sing along to all your favourite hits and experience the magic of live music.
The Devout: Depeche Mode Tribute

The Devout: Depeche Mode Tribute

15 May 2025 - 27 Feb 2026

The Devout is a new Depeche Mode Tribute Act born from the infamous Speak and Spell - Europe’s leading DM Tribute that played Glastonbury and festivals across the continent - updated and driven forward by the same core member and productions. ‘The Devout’ play DM’s greatest hits with startling accuracy and production. Now they bring the sellout ‘Violator 30th Anniversary’ show, recreating the triple platinum LP, followed by a best hits set. The Devout will be performing hit after hit from ‘Personal Jesus’ and ‘Enjoy the Silence’ to ‘Stripped’ and ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’... There’s no doubt that this is a group of musicians whose experience, drive, passion and love for Depeche Mode shines through as they relish in recreating a live experience worthy of the boys from Basildon. The aim of The Devout is simple. To put on a show that transports the senses of the audience back to the sacred glory days of Depeche Mode.
Limehouse Lizzy

Limehouse Lizzy

2 May 2025 - 19 Dec 2025

Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive, well and dominating stages worldwide. The band have also added a tribute into their show to ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist (and world renowned solo artist) Gary Moore. From their Official PRS award, performing for Virgin Atlantic in Barbados, T.V. appearances (BBC 2’s ‘Arena’ amongst others), and to actually being recruited to record and tour by members of the original Thin Lizzy, Limehouse Lizzy enter their 25th year with their most explosive show and critically-acclaimed line-up yet. The boys are back!
The Specials Ltd.

The Specials Ltd.

24 May 2025 - 24 Jan 2026

The Specials Ltd are the UK's most authentic and original tribute to 2-Tone Legends, The Specials. When the original line up of The Specials split in 1981 they left behind a legacy which has been unrivaled by a single band since. The group were integral to promoting an anti-racial ethos, created a unique image and combined punk, ska and reggae music while lyrically commentating on the state of Britain in the late 70's and early 80's. They formed their own 2-Tone record label which launched the recording careers of Madness, The Beat and The Selecter. The Specials Ltd recreate the passion and enthusiasm of The Specials, bringing back memories of those who were there first time around and showing younger fans what they missed. The Specials Ltd are a 9 piece band full of energy, excitement and accuracy, performing Specials favourites such as Gangsters, Too Much Too Young, Do The Dog, Message To You Rudy, Stereotype, Rat Race, Do Nothing, Monkey Man, and Ghost Town.
Mark Watson: Search

Mark Watson: Search

8 May 2025 - 7 Dec 2025

Mark Watson's 12-year-old son has just got a phone. His 70-year-old dad has been through the most frightening experience of his life. Both a dad and a kid himself, around the midpoint of his life, the Taskmaster star and multiple award-winner - now also famous as one-third of YouTube cult sensation No More Jockeys - returns. He'll consider the search for meaning that we're all on, with or without Google. There'll be a lot of jokes, and a show that's different every night...
UK Foo Fighters

UK Foo Fighters

1 May 2025 - 13 Dec 2025

This World-Famous tribute band UK Foo Fighters takes you on a journey spanning 25 years of music from the now legendary Foo Fighters and their charismatic leader, Dave Grohl. UK Foo Fighters' brand new show for the theatre is inspired by the Foo’s studio album In Your Honor. It offers a unique opportunity for fans old and new to explore the melodic acoustic recordings from the Foo’s live album Skin And Bones (recorded at the Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles), culminating with a powerhouse rock set featuring tracks from all 9 studio albums including greatest hits such as; Everlong, Best of You, Times Like These and All My Life.
Hundred Watt Club - Burlesque and Cabaret
With a raucous & raunchy cast this show is a no-holds barred, full throttle journey into the wonderful world of show-people, spectacles & songbirds, all wrapped up with a feisty, tongue in cheek ribbon! Hundred watt club is proud to be one of the longest running burlesque revues in the UK...No two shows are the same, so expect the unexpected, and gear up for a good old fashioned, very grown up, bawdy & beautiful evening of variety entertainment. The lowdown: Not for the fainthearted, this show employs and embraces adult themes, strong language and partial nudity with gusto. No refunds if it's simply 'not to your taste'! Over 18s Only. Glamorous, vintage attire is encouraged (we love it when you dress up!) but not enforced; wear what you're comfy in. Show starts at 8pm and includes an interval.
ABBA Reunion Tribute Show

ABBA Reunion Tribute Show

6 Jun 2025 - 18 Dec 2025

The ABBA Reunion Tribute Show is the creation of the Director, Producer and Choreographer of the Award Winning Abbamania musical ABBA Reunion Tribute Show gives Abba fans, old and new, the opportunity to once again get together and re-live the addictive Abba phenomena that swept the airwaves and discos during the 70’s and 80’s in a truly feel good party style tribute concert. From Waterloo to Dancing Queen, all of the hits are performed with unrivalled authenticity from both an audio and visual perspective. Superbly accurate harmony vocals, guitar and keyboards combined with stunning replica costumes and excellent authentic choreography produce one of the most requested tribute shows in the world today. This tribute concert continues to entertain and enthral throughout the world and leaves you with just one question... "Did we just witness the real ABBA reunion?!"
Eddie Izzard: The Remix

Eddie Izzard: The Remix

13 Sept 2025 - 5 Nov 2025

Ever wondered what became of Darth Vader and Mr Stevens or the monkey in the tree, did the pears ever ripen… and will God ever appear? It’s a glorious chance to ‘maybe’ find out the answers or discover more questions to those Izzard conundrums. It’s highly likely that no night will be exactly the same so as ever with Eddie, expect the unexpected. This show promises to be a beautiful, hilarious journey spanning a 35 year career of talking thought provoking, nonsense, who could resist?
FM

FM

4 Sept 2025 - 28 Sept 2025

British AOR veterans FM were formed around the trio of Steve Overland, his brother Chris, and Pete Jupp. The three initially formed the band Wildlife in 1980 and recorded Burning for Chrysalis. Their second album, Wildlife, included drummer Simon Kirke (ex-Free, Bad Company) and was produced by Mick Ralphs.
Isle 'Ave A Shanty - Christmas Matinee Special
Don't miss this special afternoon matinee full of songs from The Sea and The Land. Isle ave a Shanty are a 6-piece A Cappella male harmony group singing Shanties with comedy out of the Isle of Ely. They specialise in traditional songs from the sea and the country in a folk style as well as putting a folk twist on some modern classics! They are a rarity in being a sea shanty band from a landlocked county but they bring their own style to traditional songs and songs they wrote themselves. Their live show is all about camaraderie, fun and interaction. Be ready to sing along heartily and join in with the actions as they take you on a journey across the oceans, through the countryside and maybe a few songs about grog, noggins and even a drop of Nelson's blood! The band consists of Able Seaman Andrew Newton, Lee Kiss Me Harvey, Long John Tony Calladine, Sea Sick Stuart Green, Elliott Sea Spray, & Captain Kevin King. This show is Unreserved seating. For all enquiries / disabled bookings, please call the Box Office on: 01256 416384.

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