In this class you’ll be creating your very own portrait painting of a famous face – in an environment where everyone can express their own artistic flair with confidence, comfort and authenticity and most importantly the freedom to do so unapologetically. Sirena is an established Artist and Drag Performer in East Anglia who believes drag and portraiture together create a whole new creative experience. Come on down and learn to paint with Sirena Hart. Do you want to be part of Sirena’s Hartwork? Ticket price includes all materials and one drink from the bar. This event is for ages 18+.

The iconic songs of Sting. The electrifying choreography of Kate Prince. This is a tale of hope.

A gentle session for over 60s to ease joint mobility, improve agility, balance and self-awareness in movement. Every Friday 10:30am during term times. During term time only.

Artist Justine Moss will offer guidance and advice to help you to learn skills in mark-making, portraying movement and capturing expression. Suitable for all abilities. Basic materials provided. For ages 18+. What is life drawing? During a life drawing session, there will be a nude model surrounded by artists. This is why the classes are limited to ages 18+. The model will be posing for different durations. The poses can vary from 2 minutes to 10 minutes and an hour. You will be drawing the human form in various poses and levels of detail from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches.

The greatest love story ever told – through ballet. An ancient family feud casts a long shadow over the town of Verona. In this hothouse of tension, brawls are quick to break out and both sides get caught in the crossfire.

Sensuous contemporary ballet meets the energy of musical theatre in four distinctive short works. Fool’s Paradise, The Two of Us, Us and An American in Paris: four works showing the remarkable choreographic range of The Royal Ballet's Artistic Associate, Christopher Wheeldon. 

Be transported into an ethereal world where a sprinkling of fairy dust makes dreams come true. This enchanting ballet by The Royal Ballet’s Founding Choreographer Frederick Ashton is a theatrical experience for all the family.

Host of hit political podcast The Political Party Matt Forde (Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The British Scandal, The Last Leg, The Royal Variety Performance) explores the dark comedy horror that is British politics, ahead of the next election. Plus silly voices.

After her family moves to Pink Mansions, Coraline (voiced by Fanning) quickly becomes bored with the large dusty house, and in particular with her hardworking parents (Hatcher and Hodgman). The fantasy kicks into top gear when she discovers a secret door that leads her into an alternate version of her home. A lush, visually imaginative and freshly entertaining stop-motion adaptation of Neil Gaiman's children's novel.

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa ( Doctor Who; Sex Education ) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster ( Life of Pi ) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London.

A fresh biography of Michelangelo, who is considered one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance. This film explores his relationship with his contemporaries and his immense artistic practice that included painting, sculpture and architecture. The documentary coincides with a glorious new exhibition at the National Gallery of London.

David Tennant (Doctor Who, Broadchurch) and Cush Jumbo (The Good Wife, Criminal Record) lead a stellar cast in an enthralling new production of Shakespeare’s MACBETH, filmed live at the Donmar Warehouse in London, especially for the big screen. Unsettling intimacy and brutal action combine at breakneck speed as Max Webster (Life of Pi, Henry V) directs this tragic tale of love, murder, and nature’s power of renewal. With staging full of wolfish imagination and alarming surprise, the immersive 5.1 cinema surround sound places the audience inside the minds of the Macbeths, asking are we ever really responsible for our actions?

Cutting, ripping, tearing, glueing – collage is a fun and creative outlet that is accessible to everyone of all ages and skill levels. Not only is it an environmentally friendly way to make art, but it is also a great way to clear your mind, focus on the present, unwind and have a light lunch in the company of others. Local artist Lucy McBrayne will guide you through the process of creating your own original still life collage using old magazines, books, photographs, fabrics, wrapping paper and greetings cards. Basic materials provided, but feel free to bring your own. No experience necessary, just enthusiasm! For ages 16+. Light lunch provided at our café.

The Art Café is our new unguided painting art session! Bring along old friends, make new connections or ask that special someone out for this fun and relaxed art activity. In these free-flow painting sessions you will be provided with a blank canvas and all the materials needed to create your personal masterpiece. Aprons and easels are also available to use. Whether you come by yourself or with friends, there will be no tutor during these sessions so you will be free to let your imagination grow in a relaxed and lively environment. Basic materials provided. No experience necessary, just enthusiasm! Suitable for ages 16+.

Sirena Hart will build up your confidence and skills during this relaxed session, helping you to create a colourful and vibrant artwork to impress your friends. He/she and they are ready to share the Sirena Hart Fantasy, creating an environment where everyone can express their own artistic flair with confidence, comfort, and authenticity and most importantly the freedom to do so unapologetically. Sirena is an established Artist and Drag Performer in East Anglia who believes drag and portraiture together create a whole new creative experience. Ticket price includes all materials and one drink from the bar. This event is for ages 18+

Based on the Academy Award® nominated film, Billy Elliot the Musical has won the hearts of millions since it opened in London’s West End in 2005. Set in a northern mining town, against the background of the 1984/85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever. The original creative team behind the film, including writer Lee Hall (book & lyrics), director Stephen Daldry, and choreographer, Peter Darling, is joined by music legend Elton John (music) to produce a funny, uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience that will stay with you forever. This is a Live Streamed Production

Delve into the relationship between writing and yourself using your personal experiences to create literary works of art. This creative writing workshops will address the relationship between writing and the self in a productive and fun way. It will explore how we can use our personal experiences directly and indirectly to inform artistic writing with a focus on natural environments and building visual worlds as writing stimulus. Aimed at writers at all stages in their writing journey, the interactive workshops will include group and individual practical writing exercises, stimulating discussions, explorations of our current exhibition and the opportunity to network, share work and receive group feedback. You will also have the opportunity to present the work you created during the session at the end. All materials needed to take part in this workshop will be provided. Age Suitability: 16+ Nicola Werenowska is an award winning, neurodivergent playwright. Nicola is currently exploring screenwriting and excited about working in TV/Film. Developments include a ThinkBigger screenwriting course; a BBC Writersroom Access Group; a Royal Court TV writing group; and mentorship with ITV/ScreenSkills RE:Calibrate scheme. Our café’s offers a wide selection of delicious snacks, cakes and light meals, along with hot and cold drinks which can be purchased to enjoy during your workshop. Find out more about our menus here

Firstsite’s Words from Art Poetry Workshop is practical session which will explore a variety of techniques to writing poems inspired by works of art. Our Words from Art Poetry Workshop is practical writing session which will introduce and let you explore a variety of techniques and strategies to writing poems inspired by works of art. Whether you are new to writing poetry or a seasoned poet looking for something to enhance and energise your writing, this workshop will give you an experience in writing from art. We will look at and discuss example poems by a variety of poets to identify various approaches and help stimulate your creativity. You will be given writing prompts to facilitate the use of the different methods we have examined, that will allow you to explore and take inspiration from our current exhibitions! At the end of the workshop, you will take away a selection of writing tools that you can use to write about any of the arts. All you need to take part in this workshop is a pen, notebook, your eyes and your imagination! Age Suitability: 18+ About Derek Adams Derek Adams is a poet and photographer, whose interest in writing from art is apparent in his most recent collection EXPOSURE – Snapshots from the life of Lee Miller, and his earlier chapbook unconcerned but not indifferent: the life of Man Ray. He has an MA in Creative and Life Writing from Goldsmiths and his poems have appeared in magazines and anthologies in the UK and abroad. He was BBC Wildlife Poet of the Year in 2006 and his pamphlet Postcards to Olympus won the Poetry Monthly Booklet Competition in 2004.

Join Sirena Hart at Firstsite for Boozy Brushes a multi-art, Drag entertainment painting class extravaganza where you can paint you pet – meow! Join us in the café/bar area for a lively, fun and creative evening. Unlike Boozy Brushes, where the subject is a different celebrity every month, now the subject is your furry friend! Doesn’t your pet deserve a tribute? Bring a photo of your pet and Sirena will guide you through an acrylic paint tutorial while entertaining you during the evening! Dogs? Cats?… Lions, Tigers or Bears? This Dr Draglittle experience awaits you! Sirena Hart is an established Artist and Drag Performer in East Anglia who believes drag and portraiture together create a whole new creative experience. Ticket price includes all materials and one drink from the bar. This event is for ages 18+.

The King of the Waltz invites you to a boat party with him and his beloved Johann Strauss Orchestra as they sail through his hometown of Maastricht. This brand-new cinema special is a tribute to André's childhood dream of one day forming his own orchestra and travelling the world. The film features a selection of André's favourite and most spectacular global performances along with some of the finest moments the Maestro and his Johann Strauss Orchestra have shared during their many decades together. Most of the concerts featured in this film – The Dream Continues – have never been shown on the big screen before. To mark this amazing milestone, this is your chance to see these iconic André classics for the first time. Come aboard and celebrate André’s 75th in style at your local cinema!

Colchester Pride features a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities including the Main Stage, featuring local and national acts and our wonderful Market area, with a variety of food, drink, information and sellers, our market area will have something for everyone!

Since the 1970s, English photographer Martin Parr has held up a sometimes tender, sometimes critical and always mischievous mirror to our times, forcing us to take a hard look at how consumer society has shaped our lives. Discover the maverick behind some of the most iconic images of the past century on an intimate and exclusive road trip across England with the uncompromising Parr, whose subjects, frames and colours have revolutionised contemporary photography.

Colchester, known for its vibrant cultural history – from thriving art societies and schools to being the launchpad for iconic bands like Blur – remains a hub of creativity today. In partnership with Colchester Institute, we’re proud to present the UCC: Legacy exhibition, featuring an exciting selection of multimedia works by second and third-year students from University Centre Colchester (UCC). This show celebrates the creativity sparked by art education, featuring both existing student pieces and new works. What to expect Discover a dynamic range of works by 14 artists, alongside contributions from their tutors, all celebrating Colchester’s artistic past and future. The show delves into urgent themes that matter to our community today such as climate change, addiction, and violence against women – through diverse mediums including sculpture, painting, ceramics, and installations. About University Centre Colchester (UCC) UCC focus is on developing an environment where student imagination and creativity can flourish, in studios and workshops that are equipped to offer opportunities to express and realise ideas and ambitions.

This bold and unflinching exhibition challenges what we think we know, sparking new conversations about the psychological effects of transatlantic enslavement while honouring the resilience and strength Black communities have historically demonstrated. “The show explores the rupture, erasure, and fragmentation of histories that shape Black life in the diaspora, inviting moments of understanding, healing, and community connection.”- Elsa James What to expect Experience a provocative mix of new work from renowned British African-Caribbean interdisciplinary artist Elsa James in her first major solo exhibition at Firstsite, featuring photography, neon, screen print and sound. The works confront Britain’s “national amnesia” regarding its role in the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved African people and the colonial legacies that followed, offering a deeply moving and immersive experience. Discover large-scale photographic pieces inspired by Christina Sharpe’s notion of how the slave ship marks and haunts contemporary Black life today. Through her compelling response to the diaries of an 18th-century British plantation overseer and enslaver, uncover lesser-known facts from the nation’s colonial archives. Image Credit: Elsa James: Living in the Wake of the Lust for Sugar, Film still, London, Sugar & Slavery Gallery, Museum of London Docklands, Image: Andy Delaney 2023.

Seven-time BAFTA Award-winner Steve Coogan (Alan Partridge, The Trip) plays four roles in the world premiere stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove.

 When a rogue U.S General triggers a nuclear attack, a surreal race takes place, seeing the Government and one eccentric scientist scramble to avert global destruction. This explosively funny satire is led by a world-renowned creative team including Emmy Award-winner Armando Iannucci (The Thick of It, Veep) and Olivier Award-winner Sean Foley (The Upstart Crow, The Play What I Wrote).

Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful session by Emma Johnson in The Arts Society at Firstsite (TASAF) Lecture series! The Arts Society at Firstsite is an organisation about connecting people who have a passion for art. The true pioneers of visual effects in the movies were the musicals. In the glory days of the studio system Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were involved in an artistic arms race to put the most ingenious dance routines on screen. Join writer, teacher, and composer Christopher Budd for an appreciation of blue screens, rotating stages, and two extraordinarily talented men. Christopher Budd is a writer, teacher, and musician, with a specialism in music for film.

Live-action adaptation of the 1937 Disney animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful session by Leslie Primo in The Arts Society at Firstsite (TASAF) Lecture series! The Arts Society at Firstsite is an organisation about connecting people who have a passion for art. TASAF is part of a global network of local societies, which bring people together through shared curiosity for the arts. You can learn more about it here. To secure your place in this session please scroll down to book. Seating is unreserved but you will need to show your tickets before entering the auditorium. Tickets can be presented on your smart device or as a printed copy. We have all heard about the great achievements of the Italian Renaissance, but there is little acknowledgement of the artistic events that took place in Britain during a parallel period. This lecture will take us back to that period in an exploration of the tumultuous creative outpourings of artistic talent that defined this period, some of which are no longer household names. Spanning a period from the late 15th century through to the early 17th century, this lecture will explore the conflicts and tensions between this mix of artists both indigenous and incoming in an effort to examine what relationship, if any, existed between the practises of the native artists and their foreign counterparts. Could the native art be said to have a unique character of its own or was it derivative and thus led by the incoming art of the day. Just how distinctive was the art they produced? How did it fare when compared to the contemporaneous work of foreign artists? How direct was the competition and was there even some interaction resulting in shared artistic knowledge and thus heritage among these diverse communities of artists? The Foreign Invention of British Art aims to place these artists and others into the context of their times revealing how British art came of age, From Renaissance to The Grand Manner. Art historian, Leslie Primo is an author and broadcaster, graduating from Birkbeck, University College, London with an MA in Renaissance studies. Leslie’s book, ‘The Foreign Invention of British Art’ is published by Thames & Hudson in 2025.

Enjoy the bonding experience of crafting and snuggling up with a good book in these relaxed, sensory and interactive sessions that explore a new story and art activity each class. Led by artist Lisa Eureka, the storytelling will be inspired by a mixture of original and children’s classic books and will include musical and interactive equipment for the little ones to explore: ribbons, instruments and parachutes. Then we will draw inspiration from the story to create a solo or group art work. We’ll get making with printing, gluing and painting – plenty to keep even the most adventurous toddler busy. Visit the Firstsite Cafe before or after the Mini Movers & Makers Parent and Toddler group!

Cat is a solitary animal, but as his home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.

Origami is a paper folding art originally from Japan/China. Learning origami not only helps with hand-eye coordination but improves concentration and problem-solving skills. This ancient art form has been used as meditation, stress relievers and a fun social activity with friends. In our Origami Workshop, Lu Yu will guide you step by step through the creation of specific origami shapes, teaching essential techniques such as valley folds, mountain folds, squash folds, and reverse folds. These foundational skills will help you build confidence and precision in your folding. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll have the opportunity experiment with your own designs and experience the joy of transforming a simple sheet of paper into something unique. Origami is a powerful tool for mindfulness and mental well-being. Its calming, repetitive motions help people relax, focus, and cope with stress, making it a valuable activity for your emotional and mental health. Basic materials provided. Food and drink is also available for purchase throughout the session from our cafes. This event is suitable for ages 16+. Lu Yu studied a BA Fine Art at Colchester Institute and won the 2022-2023 Graduate Awards. She is a member of Colchester Art Society, practicing mainly 3-dimensional forms. Lu Yu also experiments with different materials including wood, metal, ceramic, plaster and paper. Her sculptures have been selected to join Spring and Winter Exhibitions by Colchester Art Society each year with other sculptures being exhibited in Fingringhoe Wick Nature Park, Marshall Estate and the 60th Essex Art Open Exhibition at Beecroft Art Gallery. She has previously run origami workshops for World Culture Day at the East Bergholt High School and other schools across Essex and London. Other activities that have hosted her origami workshops include; the Rice and Spice Festival, International Women’s Day, BHM Culture Integration Event, the Global Village event at Rayleigh and at Jaywick Martello Tower. This Origami Workshop is held as part of our Fabulous Fridays!

Join us for an exciting hands-on workshop where creativity meets sustainability at our EcoArt Collage and Craft workshop! In this unique group experience, we’ll explore the art of collage-making using eco-friendly, repurposed materials. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, this workshop is designed to inspire creativity. Your tutor will guide you through the process of selecting and transforming sustainable materials—such as recycled paper, fabric scraps, natural textures, and more—into a beautiful visual masterpiece. By the end of the session, you’ll have your own textile collage to take away. Don’t miss this chance to unleash your creativity, connect with like-minded individuals, and make a positive impact on the environment. No experience required, just bring your creativity and enjoy an evening of crafting and socialising! Basic materials provided. Food and drink is also available for purchase throughout the session from our cafes. Please note that there will be a use of of sharp scissors and hot iron in this workshop, so please be cautious when crafting. We kindly ask for our attendees to drink responsibly. This EcoArt Collage and Craft is held as part of our Fabulous Fridays!

Set in a welcoming environment, our fair showcases a stunning array of original artworks, including paintings and sculptures. Whether you’re on the hunt for a unique gift or treating yourself to something special, this is your chance to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that speak to you. Meet emerging and established artists, explore their unique creations, and snap up exclusive pieces to add to your collections. With interactive workshops, live demonstrations, and thought-provoking artworks, there’s something for everyone. Join us for an inspiring and dynamic experience where art, culture, and community come together. Each Art Fair will feature a variety of exciting activities, including: A display of original artworks Opportunities to network with other artists and art enthusiasts Portfolio surgeries Live demonstrations and hands-on workshops Guided tours of the Firstsite gallery to immerse yourself in our exhibitions Entry is free, but you will need to purchase tickets to participate in the live demonstrations and workshops. If you would like to attend a Portfolio Surgery session you would also need to book a timeslot. This is an event you won’t want to miss – immerse yourself in creativity and take home something truly special! Visit our page to find out what’s on for each fair! Image caption: Image by Tom Coomber

Throughout the evening, we will be hosting an array of creative events and workshops across Firstsite. Expect pop-up performances, arts and crafts, and surprise artist collaborations that leave you inspired and engaged. Our art workshops will allow attendees to participate in creating something new, from crafting unique pieces, drawing sketches, learning new painting techniques, and exploring the world of art sustainably. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Firstsite features thought-provoking works in our exhibitions and a fantastic cinema, screening great films. You are also welcome to enjoy a selection of beverages and treats available for purchase from our cafés throughout the evening. Entry to our Fabulous Friday evenings is free, but you may need to purchase tickets to participate in some workshops and activities. Please visit the event page for more information.

This compelling documentary takes viewers on a breath-taking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the ocean. In the film the legendary broadcaster and filmmaker reveals how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Attenborough shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing. Stunning, immersive cinematography showcases the wonder of life under the seas and exposes the never-before-seen realities and challenges facing our ocean, from destructive fishing techniques to mass coral reef bleaching. Ultimately the story is one of optimism, with Attenborough showcasing inspirational stories from around the world to deliver his greatest message: the ocean can recover to a glory beyond anything anyone has ever seen.

Join us for a delightful evening of creativity, relaxation and wine at our Watercolour and Wine Workshop! This event is the perfect blend of artistic expression and indulgence for seasoned artists and complete beginners. In this fun, casual setting, you’ll learn the basics of watercolour painting, guided by our talented instructor Justine Moss, who will help you create beautiful, vibrant works of art. As you paint, sip on a glass of wine, allowing the smooth flavours to inspire your creativity and add to the joy of the evening. This Watercolour and Wine workshop is an opportunity to unwind, explore your artistic side, and leave with a stunning watercolour masterpiece to treasure. No experience necessary – just bring your love for art and wine! All materials will be provided. The workshop is suitable for ages 18+.

This exhibition marks the 50-year anniversary of Acorn Village in Manningtree, a charity dedicated to providing care and support for adults with learning disabilities since 1975, when it welcomed its first 13 residents. Over 50 diverse artworks showcase the creative legacy of Acorn Village, created by artists and residents who have spent the past 20 years developing their skills in the charity’s Day Services and Therapeutic Centre – a unique art learning environment that nurtures creativity and independence. What to expect Go on a journey through the landscapes of Essex, from Harwich to Wrabness, captured in textures and colours across a series of woven textiles crafted over 10 years. Experience paintings inspired by popular culture, abstract nature studies, street scenes, furniture designs, and sculptures influenced by plants and urban forms. Learn more about the Acorn Village community’s evolution through archive materials, from its foundation to the present day. About the exhibition Following on from our series of critically acclaimed exhibitions exploring the artistic community of The East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing at Benton End, this show explores a different art learning environment and its celebration of creativity. At Acorn Village, every individual, whatever their disability, is encouraged to follow their dreams and is supported to be as independent as physically possible. About Acorn Village Acorn Village are a charity based in Manningtree, that offer high quality care and accommodation to adults with learning disabilities, within two models of care, residential and supported living services. Most of their objectives are met through daytime activities which encourage social interaction, learning new life skills, crafting, gardening, education, active leisure and entertainment.

During the annual Festival of the Stars in Sylvanian Village. While everyone is awaiting the event nervously, Freya, the Chocolate Rabbit girl, begins to worry about finding a birthday gift for her mom and preparing the festival’s main event: The ‘Tree of the Year.’ She must find a solution to make both her mother and her friends happy.

Unleash your creativity in our hands-on Kite Making Workshop! Whether you’re an art lover or a enjoy flying kites, this workshop offers the perfect opportunity to craft your very own kite. In this hands-on session, participants of all ages will create their own colourful kites with the guidance of artists and kite enthusiast Tom Armstrong. Learn the basics of kite design, decorate your creation, and then take it outside for a test flight! After the session you’ll also be able to take your bespoke kite home. All materials provided—just bring your imagination. Some activities of our Kite Making Workshop take place outside. Please make sure those taking part in activities are dressed appropriately for the weather. Most suitable for 4-11 years, but all ages are very welcome. All children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian but tickets are not required for the accompanying adults. Adults and guardians who would like to make and decorate their own kite are also welcome to purchase a ticket and join in the activities! This Kite-making Workshop experience will be held as part of The Firstsite Art Fair!

A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they'll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve.