Chris's work has taken him across the UK, and to many countries around the world. He has a fresh and modern approach to mediumship, and his greatest passion is publicly demonstrating his mediumship. A show with Chris is always filled with emotion and humour. The mediumship in this evening’s show is provided for entertainment purposes and the event is suitable for age 18+.

Hold onto your doublets, ruffs and trunk hose. The Bard is back! With story and verse improvised in the moment, enjoy a riotous new Shakespeare play every time – performed by Impromptu Shakespeare’s whip smart cast. Packed with priceless wit, lyrical smarts, romance, and a dash of double-crossing, this leading ensemble do the Bard proud with a brand new hit every time, inspired by audience suggestions. Impromptu Shakespeare have been a smash hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, Bristol Shakespeare Festival, and appeared on BBC Shakespeare Live. “Shakespeare from the hip. Ingenious and very funny.” Will Gompertz, BBC Arts Editor “Simply sublime, side-splittingly hilarious improvised comedy almost worthy of the Bard himself.” ★★★★★ Broadway Baby “Go and see this show. It’s intelligent, it’s funny, it’s all of the adjectives for brilliant. I’m still not sure how they did what they did.” ★★★★★ Pocket Size Theatre

Steve Patterson Confident the Tour is a variety show that brings a fusion of live music, comedy, magic, prize bingo and more into one hilarious night of live variety entertainment!

Constellations explores the infinite possibilities of love and life. We follow Marianne, a physicist, and Roland, a beekeeper, as they navigate their connection through multiple possibilities. Their love story shifts with each decision, exploring how small changes can alter the course of life. Nick Payne's play weaves love, science, and quantum theory into a profound exploration of fate. Suitable for age 12+

The UKs number one tribute to the Everly Brothers brings all their greatest hits to the stage! Enjoy classics like Wake Up Little Susie, Walk Right Back, Cathy's Clown, All I Have to Do Is Dream and many more for a perfect night of nostalgia and rock n roll magic!

DOT Productions brings you this fun fast paced adaption of 'Robin Hood'. Come and meet Robin and his Gang battle against the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and steal from the rich to give to the poor. With Maid Marion's help they might be able to finally stop Prince John and the Sheriff from ruining everything they hold dear in Nottingham. Full of memorable characters, silliness and charm this production is an hour of pure escapism which will leave all the family with a smile on their face!

By Jane Austen DOT Productions The Dashwood sisters approach love very differentlyElinor with Sense, Marianne with Sensibility. Heroes, heartbreak, and debonair villains, all topped off with a dashing duel, make this comedy of manners a delight. With a cast of five and DOTs renowned comedic style, this Austen classic is a must-see!

Early bird offer - 20% off tickets purchased before 30 June 2025 In 1880s Salford, bombastic boot-maker Henry Hobson stands between his three daughters and their future happiness. But Maggie, the plain one, is ready to defy him, her sisters, and the whole community! This timeless comedy classic is a riot of wit, love, and family drama. Suitable for all ages. Hobsons Choice by Harold Brighouse is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. 3wishes Theatre CIC

Crunchy Frog Players Following last year's sell-out shows, The Crunchy Frog Players return with a fresh selection of classic and original comedy sketches and songs! This time, theyre getting localhow many Colchester references will you spot in this annual fundraising show for the Mayor's charities? Some swearing and adult themes. Age 14+. Running time 1hr 45mins (incl. interval)

by Sonia Overall, with music by Greg Ireland and puppetry by James Frost Parrot Theatre Company Experience a shiver of delight as the horror seeps in Death plays the violin, and today is his practice day. His latest composition will surprise and horrify any who hear it. Featuring macabre puppetry and an eerie live soundscape, Death and the Carpenter is a new gothic folk tale for grown-ups. Suitable for ages 15+. Running time 75 mins (no interval).

by Dawn King Headgate Young Company Step into the gripping world of The Trials, brought to life by the talented Headgate Young Company. In a future where a powerful system of trials decides people's fate, a group of young individuals must confront intense moral dilemmas and make life-altering choices. Tackling themes of the climate crisis, this thought-provoking production is driven by the young cast in every aspect. Don't miss your chance to support tomorrow's theatre stars. Contains strong language. Age 13+ After-show talkbacks by arrangement. Running time approximately 90 minutes. Group discounts are available for groups of ten or more. Please email [email protected] to arrange a group booking and/or an after-show talkback. Dawn King is an award-winning writer for theatre, film, and radio.

Let us take you back in time with the music of two kings of rock and roll. With hit songs: Jealousy, Like I’ve Never Been Gone, Maybe Tomorrow, Love Me Tender, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Don’t be Cruel, Teddy Bear and Taking you Halfway to Paradise.

Four times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth AwardsMEGSON create a truly unique brand of folk music. Combining an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars, MEGSON have gained a reputation not only for their arresting & intelligent song writing, but also for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo) MEGSON have been described as as the most original duo on the British folk scene by THE GUARDIAN and asFROOTS Magazine puts it if you dont like the music here then you have a problem. Liking to keep busy, MEGSON have recorded thirteen studio albums across their twenty year career gaining four & five star reviews from THE GUARDIAN, MOJO, THE TELEGRAPH, UNCUT, THE FINANCIAL TIMES whilst THEOBSERVERpronounced them A force in the folk revival. Even lockdown 2020 couldnt hold them back as they performed a hugely popular series of livestream concerts to their growing army of followers. And during all this time, Stu even managed to be involved with other artists producing & recording award winning music forSHOW OF HANDS, ODETTE MITCHEL, LUCY WARD, FAUSTUS & THE YOUNG'UNS. Now they are back doing what they do best, on the road promoting a brand new studio albumWHAT ARE WE TRYING TO SAY. Catch them if you can...

By Florence Espeut-Nickless, Simon Longman, Anne Odeke and Rosa Torr A HighTide and Pentabus co-production, in association with Harlow Playhouse The sell-out success returns with four brand new spooky tales from award-winning writers. Ghosts dont always stay in the pastthese chilling stories will draw you into the secretive corners of the East and West of England. Join us by the candles just dont let the light go out! Suitable for age 12+.

A Saucerful of Floyd is a Pink Floyd Tribute with a difference. Saucerful of Floyd portrays the music of Pink Floyd in a more traditional, authentic light with four musicians representing the four members of the original band along with a more intimate but powerful light and laser show along with all the desired sound effects and amazing music taking the audience on a journey from where it all began at The Piper at the Gates of Dawn to where is all ended at The Division Bell.

Rob Barratt is a Dudley-born and Cornwall-based comic poet, humourist and singer. His brain-tickling, word-mangling performance combines clever word play, verse and song with satire, parody and audience participation. Rob deals with such important topics as squid, data-driven education, Neanderthal politics, the weather in Scotland, distressed furniture, pissoirs and his relationship with potatoes but beneath the humour lurk serious issues. In recent years Rob has appeared at folk, literature and arts festivals all over the British Isles and Australia.

Flamenco Express returns with another fresh cargo of raw, heart-wrenching flamenco. Featuring sizzling soloist La Joaquina, guitar virtuoso Chris Clavo, the massive vocal presence of El Pola, and the electrifying guest dancer Kuky Santiagoan artist of captivating stage presence who, by the age of six, had already performed at the Palace of Fine Arts in Brussels. He went on to study in Seville with the legendary Farruco family and Juan de los Reyes, and has since won international acclaim, performing across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Expect an evening of exhilarating rhythm and raw emotion! Running time: two halves of about 35 mins each, with a 20-minute interval.

The Silhouettes are unique amongst tribute bands in providing an authentic Shadows show which includes acoustic renditions of hits such as Guitar Tango and Nivram. The show includes all the group’s number one hits (Apache, Kon Tiki, Wonderful Land, Dance On and Foot Tapper) and 14 other top twenty hits.

In the East End of London the fires of rebellion and change have burned for centuries. In 1888 the Matchgirls strike leads the way in industrial action and the formation of the Trades Union movement, then in 1968 the women of Fords in Dagenham strike, leading to the introduction of equal pay legislation. Between all of this, in 1928 Sara Wesker forms the United Clothing Workers Union, is elected to the Communist Party of Great Britain's Central Committee and fights at the Battle of Cable Street. She also just happens to have a nephew who is a famous playwright. This is her story. Chopped Liver & Unions is a story from a century ago but is very much a play for today. Last year's debut at the Brighton Fringe was "highly recommended" by Fringe Review and it went on to win excellent reviews and audience feedback and an OffFest nomination, as well as being a "Pick of the Fringe" at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Company: Blue Fire Theatre Co. Venue Accessibility: [Assistance Dogs Welcome] Assistance Dogs Welcome Age suitability: 12+ Content Warning: References to fascism, war and labour exploitation.

Colchester Arts Centre Director Anthony Roberts’ traditional rendition of the Dickens classic. Guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit.

By Heather Davies At 50, Cheryl thought life might slow down. What she didnt expect was the rollercoaster of perimenopause. As she and her lifelong friend Sandra navigate the downright weird moments of midlife, their husbands try to make sense of it all from the local pub. With a cheeky nod to Cinderella and an unexpected rap from lifestyle guru Fuzzy B, this side-splitting musical takes us on a journey of self-discovery. Running time: approximately 90 minutes. There will be a free post-show Q&A with the creatives after the performance on Tue 16th Sept. Suitable for ages 14 and over.

Fifteen years ago, three musicians met at an open mic nightand never looked back. From the streets of Colchester to the stage, Those Colchester Buskers have built a loyal following with their heartfelt harmonies, infectious energy and stories told through song. Join this local trio for an evening of music, friendship and community spirit.

By William Shakespeare Pantaloons Theatre Company Join the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company as they put on a frantic disposition to tackle Shakespeares greatest tragedy in their own anarchic style. With live music, audience interaction, abridged mayhem and a mix of comic and tragic turns, theres only one question: To be there, or to be square? Running time 140 minutes (including a 20 minute interval).

By Richard Bean (Based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni). Music by Grant Olding and others. Headgate Theatre Productions Brighton, 1963. We follow Francis Henshall who has unwittingly become employed by two bosses simultaneously - Roscoe Crabbe, a gangster and Stanley Stubbers, a toff! Francis tries desperately hard to keep the two employers at bay with hilarious results. A cocktail of mistaken identity, mayhem, music, fast-paced physical comedy and silliness make this play one of the great British comedies of the 21st century! This amateur production is by permission of Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. Advisory: the play contains some views that were acceptable at the time of writing.

Escaped Alone by Caryl Churchill Breathe by Jazz Ely 3wishes theatre CIC An evening of two brilliant plays pushing the boundaries of theatrical form. Each one is funny, surprising and loaded with humanity. Escaped Alone is by the ground-breaking Caryl Churchill, widely considered as one of Britains greatest playwrights. Breathe is a UK premiere by Jazz Ely, an exciting new artist in Colchesters creative scene. In Escaped Alone by Caryl Churchill, four women in a garden. They chat, they sing, they laugh. Its life as we know it, with the apocalypse all too close for comfort. In Breathe...Sam and Callum decide to start a family. That is until Michael burst your Bubl shows up. Taunted by TikTok, obsessed with breathing, blinking, swallowingSams story is not linear, and neither is recovery. Suitable for ages 16+. (The plays contain strong language, loud sounds, flashing lights, and themes of anxiety and existential catastrophe.)

Contemporary folk duo Kyson Point husband and wife Kelly and David Booth present their new album with support from Florence Somerville. Inspired by classic singer-songwriters and the natural world, the pair will be joined by guest musicians Sophie Sirota (viola) and Giovanni Crescenzi (bass) for this special performance. By any measure, David is a master of song writing and a compelling singer... (Irish Music Magazine)

A Pint of Shanty by John Sanders A Pint of Shanty is a mixed group of singers, musicians and actors performing shanties, sea songs and folk songs woven together to tell a story. With warmth and humour, they offer an informative, enjoyable and fun evening. Previous appearances include the Harwich Sea Shanty Festival and other events across the region. Running time: 120 mins including an interval.

An Evening with Jack the Ripper, By Steve Morgan Award-winning producer and broadcaster Steve Morgan has captivated thousands with his celebrated Ripper walks through Londons East End. Now adapted for the stage, An Evening with Jack the Ripper delves into the sordid realms of Victorian London in an attempt to finally unmask the man with the blackest of hearts who preyed upon the most vulnerable members of society. Utterly gripping storytelling at its chilling best. (East London Press). Running time: There are two 40 minute acts plus a 20 minute interval. Suitable for ages 12 and over)

Easy VirtueBy Noel Coward When young John Whittaker announces he is bringing home his new bride, his snobbish mother and sisters are delighted... until they meet her! A sophisticated older woman with a scandalous past, a battle of wills ensues in this sharp expose of social hypocrisy. Written with Noel Cowards signature wit and flair, Easy Virtue was filmed in 2008 with Colin Firth and remains strikingly relevant today. Dont miss this rare opportunity to see one of Cowards earliest and most successful plays in its centennial year. (This is an amateur production presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. Running time: approx. 2 hours plus one 1520 minute interval.

By Ross Howard, Headgate Theatre Productions First performed in London in 2013, Our Walk Through the World is a collection of six short plays exploring the absurdities, tragedies and small victories of modern life. Dark, irreverent and very funny. This play is the real deal... always bracingly unpredictable! New York Times. Suitable for age 16 and above.

By Tom Whalley, Headgate Theatre Productions A family pantomime packed with fun and laughter! Goldilocks loves Silly Billy, and together they plan to save Dame Gerties Circuswith a little help from three dancing bears! Can they outwit the wicked Ringmaster Heinkel and rescue Baby Bear? Suitable for ages 3+

The hirer will present evening performances of Sherlock Holmes Smells Evil! on 5th, 6th & 7th January 2026 @ 7.45pm. Additional matinee performances will be performed @ 3pm on 6th & 7th. Ticket prices will be 15 full price and 10 concessions (U21s) but will carry a 1:00 booking fee in addition. 79 seats will be available.

The early sessions in our autumn season will look at particular acting techniques and skills around monologues and impersonation, together with other activities delivered by a variety of theatre practitioners. We then move on to exploring a comedy play with Paul T Davies, and preparing a short pantomime. Individual sessions available to book at 9+1 booking fee. Season bookings also available.

Book on to the first block of workshops for those aged 16-21 to be in with the chance of auditioning for Headgate Young Companys September production- The Trials by Dawn King! This block of workshops will mix acting basics, working with script exercises and audition techniques. There will also feature sessions based around the themes of the play including climate change and intergenerational conflict. The block also offers the opportunity to partake in a specialised workshop from Wise Ram Theatre Company who create work based around the climate crisis.

These workshops will be driven by the interests of the participants, but will be based on the Actors Toolkit. Encouragement to develop self confidence and communication skills as well as technique, this programme has had enormous success for those wanting to make application for a performance based degree, or where skilled communication will be beneficial in future careers. Those wishing to follow a development pathway is technical or production activities should complete a volunteer registration form via our website. Workshop Dates and times: Thursdays 6th, 13th 20th and 27th November and 4th December All 7:00pm -9:30pm. 30 plus 1 booking fee. Thursdays 25th September , 2nd, 9th 16th and 23rd October inclusive

A Headgate Studio Session. A showcase of theatre writing performed by award winning local actors Rowan Donaldson, Sara Green & Cally Kline to challenge, amuse & entertain! These performances will be given in the first floor studio adjacent to the bar which will be open.

by Charles Dickens, adapted by Karen Louise Hebden Colchester Theatre Group On a cold Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by three spirits who lead him on a journey through his past, present and future. As he confronts the life hes lived and the man he might become, a playful ensemble brings the story to life with warmth, wit and festive flair. Running time: Estimated 135 minutes including an interval.

The early sessions in our autumn season will look at particular acting techniques and skills around monologues and impersonation, together with other activities delivered by a variety of theatre practitioners. We then move on to exploring a comedy play with Paul T Davies, and preparing a short pantomime. Individual sessions available to book at 9+1 booking fee. Season bookings also available.

Laura Wyatt With Laura Wyatt on vocals and Darrel Mayhead on guitar, The Jazz Duo return to get you feeling festive as the final countdown towards Christmas begins! Expect Christmas classics from Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald plus mince pies in the interval! Running time: 110 minutes including an interval.

A fundraising event for cancer charities An uplifting evening of music and conversation raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK and the Cancer Wellbeing Centre. Featuring performances by Colchester Cancer Choir, a special monologue by Ben Maytham, and Tim Strugnell sharing his remarkable cancer journey. 12.50 (all tickets)

By Pat Whymark, Common Ground Theatre Co. At their mothers wake, two brothers try to make sense of her through the fantastical stories she once toldsome hilarious, others terrifying, and all unforgettable. Were they guidance or misdirection? This inventive play with live music explores memory, myth and family with warmth, wit and theatrical flair. Common Ground, based in Ipswich, is a theatre company committed to keeping small-scale theatre alive and well in East Anglia.