The List

Charter Hall

Charter Hall is one of Colchester's busiest events venue. Located in Colchester Leisure World, it hosts comedy, cabaret, tribute acts, children's shows and live sports events throughout the year. Buses arrive at the town's main bus terminal, which is just a ten minute walk away, while local bus routes stop within a few minutes of the venue's entrance. North Station (which services London and Norwich) is just ten minutes away by foot. By car, the venue can be easily found by following the Leisure World signage.

What's On @ Charter Hall

The Comedy Store

The Comedy Store

1 May 2026 - 12 Dec 2027

With nearly 40 years’ experience in the business and as the premier name in comedy, The Comedy Store is renowned as a breeding ground for new comedy talent, and remains the place to see tomorrow’s stars today. The likes of Eddie Izzard, John Bishop, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Sarah Millican, have all cut their comedy teeth with us. We bring you “The Best In Stand Up” from around the globe, showcasing the brightest names in comedy today. Simply the funniest show you’ll see all year!
Beyond the Barricade

Beyond the Barricade

15 May 2026 - 19 Sept 2027

Beyond the Barricade has delighted audiences throughout the UK and mainland Europe for more than a decade, with its exciting concert portrayal of the greatest songs in musical theatre, all performed totally live! Recreating original West End/Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, this cast of past principal performers from Les Misérables, present a blockbusting two hour show, and is now established as the nation’s favourite musical theatre concert. Beyond the Barricade features songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Jersey Boys, The Lion King, Blood Brothers, Miss Saigon and many others, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Misérables! Don’t miss the return of ‘Beyond the Barricade’ to experience its nationwide reputation for quality and perfection in musical theatre and find out why this exciting show has received critical acclaim across the UK and abroad.
Whitney: Queen of the Night

Whitney: Queen of the Night

8 May 2026 - 25 Mar 2027

Queen Of The Night – A Tribute to Whitney Houston returns for another show-stopping celebration, following sold-out tours across the UK. This breathtaking production honours the music, legacy, and unmatched talent of the legendary Whitney Houston. Celebrate Whitney’s remarkable musical repertoire in an electrifying production that honours her timeless songs with sensational vocalists and a full live band. Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary journey through three decades of all-time hits such as I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment In Time, I’m Every Woman, I Will Always Love You, My Love Is Your Love, So Emotional, Run To You, Saving All My Love, How Will I Know, Million Dollar Bill, The Greatest Love Of All, and many more. Join us for an unmissable evening filled with live music, captivating choreography, and powerful vocals, as we pay homage to the one and only queen of the night. Please note that this is a tribute production not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston.
Forbidden Nights

Forbidden Nights

30 Apr 2026 - 25 Jun 2027

Brace yourself for something truly spectacular… Forbidden Nights is here, celebrating over 10 years of muscles, mayhem and over 11,000 shirt rips! Ready for a new fantasy? Unleash your inhibitions as Forbidden Nights takes you to a whole new level, delivering more than your wildest dreams. Whether you’re just looking for an excuse to let loose, celebrating a birthday or planning a sensational hen party, look no further. This show is not only hot, it’s hilarious. This is your sign from the universe urging you to create unforgettable memories and finally have that incredible night out you’ve been putting off for too long.This isn’t just a typical show; get ready to dive right in and interact like never before.Sing along from your seat or go all out and book a stage pass for the ultimate experience. Each ticket includes a free meet and greet cast photo opportunity. For the best seats in the house book now and find out why Forbidden Nights have performed to over 300,000 people. So, what are you waiting for?
Michael Starring Ben

Michael Starring Ben

30 Apr 2026 - 27 Jun 2027

Take a journey back in time to remember Michael Jackson – the man, the music and the magic.  MichaelⓇ Starring Ben is a hit theatre production starring the UK's ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Not only does he look and sound like the King of Pop, but he's honed his routine so carefully that audiences truly believe they are watching Michael Jackson himself.  The show features a live band, dazzling costumes and the performer's iconic dance routines. It also showcases the greatest hits of Michael Jackson and also of The Jackson 5 including Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller and Man in the Mirror.
So True

So True

13 Jun 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

Mark your calendars – the ultimate 80s party night is coming to The Charter Hall, Colchester! Saturday, June 13th, 2026 – SAVE THE DATE! The hottest 80s show in town is heading to The Charter Hall, Colchester, and you DO NOT want to miss it! So True – The Ultimate 80s Experience! This is NOT a disco with a DJ – this is a proper show and a wonderful live music performance, bringing you the biggest 80s hits exactly as they were originally played by the legendary bands themselves! A fully Live Band – 100% Live Music! A Sensational 9-Piece Band Delivering the Ultimate 80s Sound! Sing, Dance, and Relive the Magic of the Greatest Decade! This is the fastest-growing 80s night out in the UK, featuring a phenomenal 9-piece band bringing you every hit with incredible energy and authenticity. This is a high-energy, unforgettable show that is filling venues nationwide – and now it’s Colchester’s turn to experience the magic! Fully Allocated Seating – PLUS Room to Dance & Sing! Enjoy the best of both worlds – a comfortable, fully allocated seat , while still having the space to get up, dance, and sing along to all the biggest 80s hits!
Scott Bennett: Stuff

Scott Bennett: Stuff

1 May 2026 - 6 Jun 2027

As a society we love stuff, it’s a statement about who we are and who we want to be. But apparently, this message is at odds with the looming environmental crisis. We’re now struggling to balance these worlds, to focus on the things that bring us real connections and nourish the soul. Award-winning comedian and award-winning droduct designer Scott Bennett is desperately trying to cleanse his life of stuff, but is this even possible anymore? Tour support for Mickey Flanagan, Rob Brydon, Jason Manford and John Bishop. Star of Live at the Apollo, The News Quiz, The Now Show, The Ultimate Choice and Chortle Best Club Comedian Nominee 2022.
Troy Hawke

Troy Hawke

2 May 2026 - 4 Jun 2027

Fresh from finding and proving decisive links between IKEA, the CIA and the Nazi’s, 1930’s throwback homeschooled investigator Troy Hawke battle a new enemy on behalf of all people everywhere…the saboteur that lurks in our own minds…
Guns 2 Roses

Guns 2 Roses

1 May 2026 - 11 Dec 2026

Guns 2 Roses Est. 2002 - The world's most successful Guns N Roses tribute band! The Only GNR tribute to have performed with 4 different members of Guns N Roses. Guns 2 Roses have existed since late 2002. Many tributes have tried but not one comes close to the looks, authenticity and natural charisma Guns 2 Roses has to emulate GNR. They have appeared on stage and in media worldwide and have played to thousands throughout the UK, Europe, India, Middle East and USA!
Jen Brister: Reactive

Jen Brister: Reactive

29 Apr 2026 - 11 Nov 2026

Jen Brister is Reactive - or so she's been told. Apparently you don't have to respond to every little thing around you. Finding herself in a constant state of exacerbation at the state of the world and people in general, Brister has been told she needs to chill the hell out. Can Jen find her zen? It seems unlikely to be honest...
The End Of The World According To Jonathan Pie
Jonathan Pie is coming to terms with the horror of Keir Starmer's Labour and the fact that he voted for it. Meanwhile, Reform are waiting in the wings and Elon Musk is pulling the strings. The far-right are on the march, Trump's having a ball and the woke left still haven't worked out how to get their head out their own arses. The climate is collapsing; AI is about to rule and ruin your life and World War Three feels distinctly possible. Come and see this helpful and hilarious guide to surviving the impending apocalypse. This is The End of The World according to Jonathan Pie.
Two Mr P's in a Podcast Live

Two Mr P's in a Podcast Live

22 May 2026 - 20 Feb 2027

Mr P has been a primary school teacher for over twelve years. He still works part-time in school and leads training in schools all over the UK and beyond. From sharing ideas and funny insights into life in the classroom, he has now become one of the most followed teachers on social media in the UK. Three years ago, alongside his younger brother (who also works in a school) he started the award-winning podcast Two Mr Ps in a Podcast. In a year, it has been the number one education podcast and amassed over three million listens. Sharing funny stories from the front line of teaching, this live show will see the Two Mr Ps reminiscing on their own school days and looking at the wonderful and hilarious world of education. Anyone who went to school will enjoy and relate to this brilliant new show.
Keith Brymer Jones and Marj Hogarth: Us, Pots and a Welsh Chapel
Beloved Great Pottery Throw Down judge and ceramic designer Keith Brymer Jones returns to the stage with a brand-new show. Join Keith alongside his partner in life and crime, actor and designer Marj Hogarth, as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project yet. bringing a building back to life. Fresh from filming the third series of Channel 4's Our Welsh Chapel Dream, Keith and Marj invite you behind the scenes of their creative partnership based on the restoration of Capel Salem, a Grade II listed 19th-century chapel in North Wales. Together, they'll reveal the highs, lows, and surprises they've uncovered whilst breathing new life into historic stone—from navigating Welsh planning regulations to discovering what resilience really means when the roof leaks and the budget doesn't stretch. But this isn't just about saving a building. It's about restoring a community hub, creating a space where local potters can train as apprentices, and weaving Capel Salem back into the fabric of village life. Watch Keith work his magic at the pottery wheel with live demonstrations. Hear Marj share her passion for making something beautiful from nothing, and why she's spent decades quietly championing sustainable craft long before it became fashionable. This is an evening about more than restoration. It's about what we make, why we make it, and who we become in the making. Expect laughter, pottery, partnership, and the kind of warmth that only comes from two people who've learned to create a life together, one handmade piece at a time.
Nish Kumar: Angry Humour From a Really Nice Guy
The world is in chaos. Inequality is widening, autocracy is rising and political parties are collapsing. In these divided times, what this country desperately needs is Angry Humour From a Really Nice Guy (in many ways it's actually the last thing this country needs, but it's what it's getting so tough luck). The UK’s leading political comic Nish Kumar – co-host of hugely popular podcast Pod Save the UK, former host of axed BBC show The Mash Report, and one of Taskmaster’s greatest losers – is back on tour with a formidable batch of passionate, progressive stand-up for the ages. Kumar is 40. His mind is breaking. His body is worse. Expect existential angst and political disquiet from comedy's cheekiest boy. Nish Kumar was named one of the 50 Best Comedians of the 21st Century by both The Guardian and The Telegraph, with his previous tour playing to sold out crowds across the UK, North America, Australasia and mainland Europe.
Shalamar

Shalamar

13 Jun 2026 - 10 Jul 2026

Shalamar are one of the most successful soul groups of all time, selling 25 million albums worldwide. Formed in 1976, the band enjoyed their first hit single the following year with the Motown inspired medley 'Uptown Festival'. The 'underground soul club' hits continued with 'Take That To The Bank' in 1978, followed by 'Right In The Socket' and the infectious ‘The Second Time Around’, which dominated the airwaves through Autumn 1979. In 1982, the whole world fell under the spell of Shalamar with the release of the Friends album (which sold over on million copies in the UK) and in particular, 'A Night to Remember' – although it was not perhaps the song but the image of Jeffrey Daniel performing the 'Moonwalk' live on British Television for the first time on Top of The Pops that stopped a nation in their tracks. Fast forward 35+ years and the band, still with original members Jeffrey Daniel, Howard Hewitt alongside Solar Records Dick Griffey, daughter Carolyn Griffey continue to thrill audiences all over the world with their stage show. 'A Shalamar concert is a giant party' says Jeffrey Daniel, 'from the moment we step on stage to the moment we finish the audience becomes part of the show - they’re up on their feet dancing and singing along.'
The Emo Festival

The Emo Festival

19 Sept 2026 - 19 Sept 2026

The Emo Festival is coming to Colchester! The greatest tribute night to the music that was never just a phase… TEENAGE NOSTALGIA featuring all your biggest emo songs in existence with A LIVE BAND & LIVE DJs spinning all the angst your teenage dirtbag heart desires all night long! LIVE Performers, confetti & much more! Put on your eyeliner, lace up your high-tops and get ready to rock to all your favourite nostalgic emo anthems! This event is 14+ under 18s must be accompanied by an adult! – Please note this is a standing event!
The Big Indie Tribute Festival

The Big Indie Tribute Festival

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

THE BIG INDIE TRIBUTE FESTIVAL IS HERE! The biggest indie tribute festival is set to take the roof off of Colchester! Brace yourself for 4 hours of tribute bangers from your favourite indie legends with our LIVE BAND, DJs & performers! Belt your heart out to seventeen going under, pull up them knee socks and come out of that cage – as we take you on an indie journey you’ll never forget at this not-to-be missed live music experience! EXPECT TO HEAR MUSIC FROM THE LIKES OF: ARCTIC MONKEYS SAM FENDER THE KILLERS THE 1975 KASABIAN & MANY MORE! A NIGHT OF HUGE INDIE ROCK ANTHEMS! This event is 14+ under 18s must be accompanied by an adult – Please note this is a standing event!
Gary Delaney: Gary on Laughing

Gary Delaney: Gary on Laughing

30 Apr 2026 - 28 May 2027

Gary Delaney's last UK tour ran for two and a half years across 378 dates. People laughed a lot and kept coming back. His videos have hundreds of millions of views. So now he's doing it all again with a brand new show. All new jokes and utterly splendid filth.  Come along. It'll be fun. Don't bring the kids or people who like to get their knickers in a twist. Do wear a TENA pad or dark trousers. 
The Princess Proms

The Princess Proms

6 Jun 2026 - 22 Nov 2026

We invite you to an enchanting concert, singing the most magical music in all of the land. Prepare for a show stopping performance as we pay tribute to the iconic, heartwarming and nostalgic songs from animations including; Frozen, Wicked, K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty & The Beast, Anastasia, Pocahontas, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and more! As well as a few from our favourite popstars like Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Rachel Platte. With an incredible response and sold-out shows across the country, we know this show will stay in your hearts forever. Creating magical memories, sharing stunning musical moments, and spreading joy is at the very heart of what we do. The stars of our show have performed on the West End, ITV, for Royalty, and more, but their dreams have truly come true touring this concert and performing for you. We’re absolutely enchanted to have you join us for this magical family show suitable for ages 3+. Runtime approx 1hr 40mins including interval.
Simon Brodkin

Simon Brodkin

5 Jun 2026 - 20 Mar 2027

Fresh from his sold-out, critically-acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe run and becoming the most viewed British comedian of all time on TikTok, world-famous prankster and Lee Nelson creator Simon Brodkin is back with an outrageous new stand-up show. In Screwed Up Simon rips into celebrity culture, social media, the police, Putin, Prince Andrew and Jesus. Nothing is off limits in this hilarious show, including his own mental health, his family, his five arrests and how he once found himself at an underground sex party.
Adele - The Candlelight Concert

Adele - The Candlelight Concert

1 May 2026 - 17 Oct 2026

Prepare to be swept away by an unforgettable evening of soul-stirring music as Xperience Live proudly presents ‘The Music of Adele – The Candlelight Concert.’ Surrounded by a warm, glowing sea of candles, this breathtaking live experience celebrates the timeless artistry of one of the world’s most iconic vocalists. Featuring internationally acclaimed Adele tribute vocalist Natalie Black, whose powerhouse voice and emotional depth capture the spirit of Adele with stunning authenticity, this show brings Adele’s greatest hits to life like you’ve never heard them before. Backed by an outstanding live band, every note is performed with richness, passion and cinematic energy. Audiences will be treated to a spellbinding journey through Adele’s most beloved songs, including chart-topping hits such as ‘Someone Like You’, ‘Rolling in the Deep’, ‘Hello’, ‘Set Fire to the Rain’, ‘Make You Feel My Love’, ‘When We Were Young’ & Many More! Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering the magic of Adele’s music anew, this candlelit tribute promises an evening of beauty, emotion and pure musical excellence. This is a tribute concert. Xperience Live, Natalie Black, and this production are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to Adele, her management, or any associated entities. All trademarks, songs, and copyrights belong to their respective owners.

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