The Comedy Club As Seen on TV Returns Don't Miss it ! Celebrating 27 years of bringing Laughter to Life! The Comedy Club is one of the most recognised and respected names in the comedy Industry and over the years has worked across the UK and Abroad with the best of the best. For Friday 17th February they have hand-picked some of their favourite Five Star Laughter makers in the UK and brought them together for you in one full show! Be prepared, get buckled up and get ready for one of the funniest nights of your life! We will bring 4 TOP Comedians right to your doorstep here in Colchester. Let's have a night of pure comedy and non-stop laughs. These Comedians Headline and play all over the UK to packed venues every week - DO NOT MISS!

Ultimate tribute concert to Tina Turner, presented by the award-winning producers behind Whitney - Queen Of The Night.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story continues to stun audiences across the globe, making it a must-see international sensation. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, the international hit show also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more.

The incredible ‘Showstopper! The Improvised Musical’ have announced more tour dates and West End shows throughout 2025! Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest, this is the first ever long-form improv show to have a full West End run and to be nominated and win an Olivier Award. For those who haven’t yet experienced the live phenomenon that is ‘Showstopper! The Improvised Musical’, the show is a fully-realised musical created on the spot from audience suggestions. The cast take ideas for settings, genres, musical styles and the show title and weave it into ingenious storylines with hilarious characters. From Lin Manuel Miranda to Stephen Sondheim, whether it’s set in a primary school, Ancient Egypt, or a mattress shop – if the audience thinks it, The Showstoppers can turn it into a hit musical. The majority of the cast also have much acclaim with founder member Ruth Bratt being part of the famous Comedy Store Players, the longest running impro show in the country; Pippa Evans being a regular on BBC Radio 4, has toured with I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue and wrote ‘Now That's What I Call A Musical!’ (that’s currently on UK tour). The pilot of Hopping, a new comedy from Lucy Trodd and Susan Harrison, aired on BBC Radio 4 and Matt Cavendish appeared on this year’s Royal Variety Performance with Mischief Theatre's ‘A Comedy About Spies’. Co-founder Adam Meggido directed the West End and Broadway hit show Peter Pan Goes Wrong. The incredibly talented West End star Miracle Chance (Roald Dahl’s The Witches at the National Theatre, Veronica Sawyer in Heathers at The Other Palace) has just joined the cast. The Showstoppers also regularly run improvisation workshops and courses for beginners and professionals and have a successful podcast - The Showstopper! Podcast, with recent guests including Zizi Strallen, Rufus Hound and Reuben Kaye. The Showstoppers have performed created more than 1,000 brand new musicals since they were formed in 2008 but they don’t stop working hard at their craft – they have to learn to improvise in the style of every hit show that comes to town, and they always encourage audiences to challenge them and keep them on their toes. As a result, they continue fill theatres, delight audiences and win awards. In 2024 they were in the Top 10 best reviewed shows of entire Edinburgh Fringe – for the second year running - no mean feat in their 15th year selling out the Pleasance Grand once more!

If you are wanting to find a choir you'll find a happy place with us in the Rock Choir. The Colchester Rock Choir is led by local vocal tutor Adam Henriksen. The local men and women who have joined the choir who live in Colchester and further afield in Essex come from all walks of life and most had no singing experience or ever thought their singing journey would ever take them on TV or radio (not compulsory). Once you join the choir you will find you learn the songs by rote from a brilliant set of resources and you will be amazed how quickly you go from 'not sure' to 'performance ready'. The songs are uniquely arranged by Rock Choir founder Caroline Redman Lusher to make songs easy to sing yet still challenge you in places. Rock Choir offers the chance to sing pop, rock and Motown songs together in a comfortable, unauditioned way. There are 10+ rehearsals a term and any commitment you make will fit nicely around the main holiday times in the year.

"The consultant had told me he was confident I had throat cancer that had spread into the lymph glands. Joyfully, I held his hand, and looked up to the heavens like a South American footballer after scoring a goal. It was one of the happiest moments of my life." Join multi award-winning, BAFTA-nominated writer and comedian Mark Steel for his new tour ‘The Leopard in My House'. The topic? His battle with throat cancer. A battle he is winning (thankfully) and which only his rapier wit could fashion a comedy tour show out of. Cancer has done nothing to dull Mark's acute political observations or quash his "frankly bonkers" energy: you will laugh, you will cry, but you'll laugh again, and again, and again. The Leopard in My House is proof that this leftie, working-class, Radio 4 favourite truly deserves his place in the UK comedy pantheon. Mark Steel is best known for his critically-acclaimed BBC Radio 4 show Mark Steel's in Town (now in its 13th series), as well as his hit podcast What The F★★★ Is Going On.?. He has presented the BAFTA-nominated Mark Steel Lectures for BBC Two, and is a regular on BBC One's Have I Got News for You and BBC Radio 4's The News Quiz. He has also written several acclaimed books, including an adaptation of his critically acclaimed stand-up show Who Do I Think I Am? for Audible.

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.

Described as ‘a truly gifted stand up’ by The Sunday Times, join Joanne as she revisits her irreverent and critically acclaimed show The Prosecco Express. Due to a relentless ageing process, Joanne is suddenly in her late thirties with no husband, no kids, no pension and no plan. She is full of questions: if she doesn’t birth anything, who will be obligated to watch her die so she doesn’t have to do it alone? Can she start a GoFundMe page to get a golden tomb built for single people to get buried in together, or do we all just get thrown into a mass grave and covered in cat hair?

The World’s Official No. 1 Eagles tribute returns for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. This phenomenal group of musicians have been touring for over two decades and remain true Eagles fanatics! Their longevity and continued international acclaim are due in no small part to their extraordinary mastery of the Eagles’ distinctive sound. Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ repertoire including Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Desperado and plenty more!

Seen by millions, The Magic of Motown is back with its 20th Anniversary Tour! It’s no surprise that this show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history. Come celebrate our brand-new show as we Reach Out and show you there ain’t no mountain high enough with the biggest Motown party of the year. Get ready for all the hits, glittering costumes, dazzling dance routines and outstanding musicianship in this breath-taking live concert spectacular. You will be going Loco down in Acapulco as we take you back down memory lane with all the Motown classics from artists such as: Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson, and many, more. Celebrate the sound of a generation with one very special night of The Magic of Motown! This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. The promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

The Four Horsemen of Rising Crime, Global Warming, AI and Culture Wars are galloping towards us. Are we on the road to hell? And can we avoid the potholes? In his brand new tour show 'Fair Cop' Alfie has the antidote to the breakdown of law and order, fake news and the price of baked beans. Somewhere in a parallel universe little Alfie’s natural comedic performance skills were recognised by his doting parents who encouraged and developed his blossoming talent. After several years as a stage school brat Alfie’s angelic face was launched on stage and screen and the rest is history. Meanwhile, in this universe Alfie Moore was told to stop messing about in class before being ‘encouraged’ into the grinding, grimy world of an apprenticeship in the Sheffield steelworks. When recession hit he traded steel for copper by joining Humberside Police. In his 40s the two universes collided when Alfie made a bid for showbiz success – but unfortunately 30 years of shift-work and being punched in the face quite a lot, had left him with ‘a face for radio’. A face not so much ‘lived in’ as inhabited by a settlement of squatters with little regard to property maintenance and repair.

A night of laughter, cabaret, mystery, and glamour! Roll up, roll up...a scintillating night out of sparkling entertainment – the UK’s longest running burlesque show – is back touring the nation. And, it’s bigger than ever. Join us for the good old-fashioned night out as we bring you the ultimate variety show, blending stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque to light up all your senses. With world-class entertainers and stars of the stage and screen – prepare for an extravaganza of glitz and glamour! Expect fun, feathers and fabulous costumes as we pick from the finest selection of specialty artistes, cabaret and circus stars, comedians and champagne showgirls! It’s the perfect night for everyone. An Evening of Burlesque is filled with artistic spectacle that has enraptured audiences for centuries. This sensational variety show brings together a bounty of beautiful stars for an unrivalled variety show for the 21st Century! Expect the unexpected with plenty of glitter and glamour! It’s cocktails and cabaret o’clock! An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret - we are waiting for you!

Whether you're a brother or whether you're a mother, when the feeling's gone and you can't go on, its time to put on your dancing shoes, for the night out of the year you have been waiting for, as we celebrate the songs of music royalty, the Bee Gees. With a brand-new show, complete with stunning light and video show, prepare to experience the distinct sound of one the greatest bands to have ever graced the stage in this unforgettable concert spectacular. Immerse yourself in the brothers music through the Sixties, Seventies, and Eighties including hits they wrote for artists such as Celine Dion, Diana Ross, and Dolly Parton. Join us for this breath-taking concert spectacular, taking you on a musical journey through all your favourite songs, including Night Fever, Stayin Alive, More Than a Woman, You Should Be Dancing, How Deep is Your Love and many more! This fabulously authentic production ensures the Gibb brothers incredible legacy of classic hit songs is well and truly stayin' alive!

Experience the magic of Whitney Houston like never before with Saving All My Love For You - a breathtaking celebration of the voice that defined generations. This spectacular tribute brings Whitney's greatest hits to life, from heart-melting ballads including "I Will Always Love You" and "Greatest Love of All" to sparkling dancefloor anthems such as "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" and "How Will I Know" that will have you moving all night long. Featuring a world-class vocalist embodying Whitney's iconic sound, supported by a fantastic live band and powerhouse backing vocalists, this show radiates the energy, elegance, and sheer magic of Whitney's unforgettable performances. With stunning costumes, every element radiates Whitney's timeless magic, creating an atmosphere filled with joy, wonder, and pure musical brilliance. Don't miss an evening filled with soul-stirring music, electrifying hits, and moments of pure enchantment. Saving All My Love For You - a magical celebration of the one and only Whitney Houston!

Joel returns to his stand-up roots with a brand-new show. With glamorous tales from behind the camera and less glamorous anecdotes of first-time fatherhood, Joel remains a charming, exhausted, happy idiot. As one of the nation’s most familiar faces on television, Joel has established himself as one of the UK’s most trusted and beloved presenters and a firm favourite in UK households. As presenter of Saturday night smash-hit The Masked Singer, ITV2’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here: Extra Camp, BBC’s reboot of Survivor, the hugely popular quiz show In With A Shout and the front man of the National Television Awards, Joel has also hosted BBC’s Live at the Apollo and co-hosts hit podcast, Never Have I Ever with his wife, Hannah.

Come with us to the place you belong, for a night of the very best country classics! Leave your 9 to 5 worries at the door and get ready as - for one night only - we celebrate the Kings and Queens of country music.

Fresh off the back of their stint as opening act for ADELE’S August 2024 Munich Residency, we are excited to welcome The Spice Girls Experience to “Live at Kilworth “ for the first time. Join Ginger, Scary, Sporty, Baby and Posh as they perform all of your favourite chart-topping Spice Girls hits including Wannabe, Stop, Say You’ll Be There, Who Do You Think You Are, Viva Forever, Too Much, Goodbye, Holler, 2 Become 1, and Mama, all with their superb live backing band. Don’t miss your chance to Spice Up your Life at Kilworth!

The UK's Premier Tribute to Global Phenomenon… Ms Rachel! Bringing Ms Rachel's character to life in a Fun, interactive live on stage performance with lots of audience participation for the little ones! With over 5 Billion Views and over 8 million subscribers on Youtube, Ms Rachel is the biggest viral sensation to hit our children's screens since 'Baby Shark!' 'Fun for Little Ones Live' encapsulates the bubbly personality, sweet singing voice and educational content; bringing to life a fun show for children. The production also includes Interactive Screen Content throughout featuring unique and on brand animation and scenery, plus Puppetry, Characters & Voices on screen with Monty & friends. This UK Premier tribute is the only one of it's kind, with little people across the country going crazy for her.

Get your dice ready and place your bets, as the award-winning Colchester Operatic Society presents Guys and Dolls! Guys and Dolls follows Nathan Detroit, who runs an illegal dice game, his fiancée of 14 years, Adelaide, big time gambler Sky Masterson, and sweet Sarah Brown, leader of the Save-a-Soul Mission. Will Adelaide ever get her big white wedding? And why is Sarah mixing with gamblers? Considered to be one of the greatest Broadway musicals, Guys and Dolls is a true classic, featuring well known songs: 'Luck be a Lady' and 'Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat'. Accessible performances and Content to Consider There will be a captioned performance of Sun 8 Feb, 3pm. This performance will contain gunshots and haze.

A Mercury Production Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth! To celebrate ten golden years of the legendary duo Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville, the Mercury Theatre present the mother of all pantos - Mother Goose! Gertie Goose (Stuart-Hicks) and her daughter run Three-Rings Circus, but their nest egg is running low, and if they can't pay the rent, it's curtains! Just when all seems lost, a fairy with a few tricks up her sleeves casts a spell on Billy the Goose (Superville) - and suddenly, he's laying golden eggs faster than you can say "honk!" With riches at their wingtips, the circus is saved! But trouble is brewing… A wicked rival circus owner, green with envy, swoops in disguised as a beauty guru, tempting Gertie with the promise of eternal youth - but at a terrible price: Billy must be traded! Will she fall for the fowl play, or will good triumph over greed? Expect breath-taking sets, dazzling costumes, side-splitting comedy and plenty of Mercury magic in this eggs-traordinary festive treat for the whole family. So flock to the box office, grab your golden tickets and get ready for an unmissable adventure this Christmas! Content to Consider and Accessibility Please be aware this show will contain flashing lights and loud music. If you'd prefer to attend a Relaxed Performance (where lighting and sound effects will be reduced), we will be holding these on Fri 5 Dec 2025, 12pm (also a Schools Performance) and Sat 10 Jan 2026, 2pm (also a BSL interpreted performance). Our Audio Described performances (with pre-show touch tours available) will be on Sat 6 Dec 2025, 2pm and Sat 17 Jan 2026, 7pm; our Captioned performances will be on Sat 6 Dec 2025, 7pm and Sat 17 Jan 2026, 2pm; and our BSL performances will be on Fri 5 Dec 2025, 7pm, Fri 9 Jan 2026, 7.30pm (also an adult performance - 18+); and Sat 10 Jan 2026, 2pm (also a relaxed performance). If you are attending a relaxed performance, or would like to know more about specific elements of the show, our social story will be available nearer the show (please be aware that this will contain spoilers). If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. Adult Performances Out 18+ adult performances are known for being a little more risqué! If you want to leave the kids at home and double the laughter, these performances will be in January 2026 on: Tue 6 Jan, 7.30pm; Wed 7 Jan, 7.30pm; Thu 8 Jan, 7.30pm; Fri 9 Jan, 7.30pm (also BSL interpreted); Tue 13 Jan, 7.30pm; Wed 14 Jan, 7.30pm; Thu 15 Jan, 7.30pm and Fri 16 Jan, 7.30pm.

Almost 40 years ago, Lionel Richie & Diana Ross released Endless Love. A song which Billboard voted as the number 1 Duet of all time and stayed in the charts for a staggering 27 weeks. It has since become synonymous with couples, lovers and enjoyed by millions of people around the globe to this very day. However. what no one could have foreseen is that since its original recording, these two icons of popular music would never perform the song together again! Yes! Incredibly for 40 years Lionel Richie has been asking Ms Ross to share that magic moment with him once more. but as yet she has declined. This brings us to the show you see before you. What if they did perform Endless Love again? If they spent one more magical night on stage? A chance to perform many of their songs BUT with each other? A mesmerising collection of hits and memorable moments from the decades, wowing audiences once more? ..Ultimately, a glorious celebration of their music..together at last! Together, the set list of these two musical heavyweights is unrivalled. Endless Love as a show is beautifully presented by a dazzling cast and a highly energised band, the result is a joyful, emotional rollercoaster from the glitz, glamour and sentiment of soaring love songs, rocking out to 80's classics and gettin' down to outright floor fillers. there really is something for everyone. It's impossible not to sing along and it's going to be one of the most memorable and enjoyable shows you'll see. After all, it's been 40 years in the making... Please note this production is in no way affiliated with the original artists

Dreamcoat Stars are back! Experience the UK's biggest night of musical smash-hits in this star-studded concert with new songs and arrangements of everyone’s favourite musical hits, Les Misérables, We Will Rock You, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Grease, Saturday Night Fever, Mamma Mia and Jersey Boys. Feel the spine-tingling vocal power of four sensational singers from the global hit show Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat coming together for an unforgettable evening of musical theatre. Grab your coat of many colours and join us where Any Dream Will Do.

Join us for a heart-warming festive adventure as you and your group journey to Lapland, where the magic of Christmas comes alive in Santa's cosy grotto. This isn't just any visit - Santa needs your help! Gather round for a delightful 20-minute interactive storytelling experience, where you'll sit down with Santa himself as he shares how he's getting ready for the big night on December 24th. He's full of festive cheer, and he has a very special job for his young visitors… Once you've helped Santa with his important preparations, each family will have the chance to meet him one-on-one for a photo and receive a magical gift. Every child will receive a keepsake ornament - something to treasure, hang on the tree, and help Santa find their home year after year. Further Information Each ticket is for one child (under 16) and includes entry for one parent or guardian to join in the festive fun. Every child taking part will need their own ticket - except for our tiniest visitors! Babes in arms (up to 12 months old) are welcome free of charge and this ticket can be added during checkout. Please note, they won't receive a gift. Want to bring an extra grown-up? You can! Additional adult tickets are £5, these can be added during checkout and each child can be accompanied by up to two adults in total. This event will be hosted in our Creative Engagement Space which has been transformed into Santa's home. On arrival please go to our Box Office and speak to our friendly team who will be able to direct you to the space for your adventure to begin. Accessibility: and Content to Consider We've created a cosy, inclusive space for all - with soft mats and cushions for little ones, benches and chairs for grown-ups, and wheelchair-friendly access with space for two in each session. Please ensure you let us know about any accessibility requirements when booking, so our team are aware and can give you a great experience! Content is to be confirmed, so if you have any concerns, please speak to one of our ushers. Creative Engagement Space Event Please note that this performance takes place in our Creative Engagement Space. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

It's the annual North Pole Yuletide Party and you're all invited! Mrs Christmas is making all the preparations, but she has so many friends to help and problems to solve, things aren't going as planned. Mrs Christmas and the Elves will need your help too! It won't be long before Father Christmas starts the celebrations and welcomes this year's guest of honour. Will everything be ready and who is this year's extra special guest? From the team behind The Ho Ho Ho Christmas Show comes a new enchanting show about thankfulness. Full of fun, magic and wonder it's the perfect festive treat for all the family to enjoy together! Videos Accessibility: Age guidance 3+. Please be aware that this show contains flashing and moving lights, loud music and noises, one small burst of smoke, bubbles and snow. If you'd prefer to attend a relaxed performance (where lighting and sound effects will be reduced), there will be a relaxed performance for this show on Wed 10 Dec at 1.30pm. You can view our visual story via the button below, but please be aware that it will contain spoilers.

Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand new live stage show! With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George all need your help to get everything ready before the big day. There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time? Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones, and is set to delight audiences across the UK.

Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind Prima Facie. Jessica Parks is a smart Crown Court Judge at the top of her career. Behind the robe, she is a karaoke fiend, a loving wife and a supportive parent. When an event threatens to throw her life completely off balance, can she hold her family upright? Writer Suzie Miller, director Justin Martin, and composer Self Esteem, reunite following their global phenomenon Prima Facie, with this searing examination of modern motherhood and masculinity.

A Mercury Original in association with Frantic Assembly, supported by Eleanor Lloyd Productions. "It does not matter what is true, or not true. All that matters is what is written down." Essex, 1643. A country divided. A town on it's knees. A teenage girl with a dangerous secret. As the Civil War rages on, in the quiet town of Manningtree, most of the men have gone off to fight, leaving the women to run the town. 17-year-old Rebecca West is like any teenager, brimming with self-doubt, consumed with unrequited love, and in a constant never-ending cycle of arguments with her sharp-tongued mother. As food runs out, and more men leave, Rebecca and her best friend Judith wait for something, anything to happen in Manningtree. But change is coming. When the mysterious Matthew Hopkins buys a pub, he brings questions. What does a young man like Matthew want with a town like Manningtree? Why has he come? And why is he so interested in Rebecca? But when an incident between Rebecca's mother and a local boy plunges the town into discord, those questions are answered with horrifying frenzy. As suspicion and fear take root and the community turns on each other, Rebecca finds her own girlhood weaponised against her - and is forced to make a devastating choice no daughter should ever have to make. This is a thrilling world premiere that tells the true story of England's first Witchfinder General, and wrenches the women he killed out from the shadows of history and into the spotlight. Adapted by award-winning Mercury Playwright and screenwriter Ava Pickett and directed by Natasha Rickman, this gripping historical drama is a fiercely modern exploration of fear, control, and what happens when women's voices are silenced. The Manningtree Witches was developed with support of the National Theatre's Generate programme, through a Jerwood Workshop.

The Wind in the Willows Presented by Mercury Young Company "Here today, up and off to somewhere else tomorrow! The whole world before you, and a horizon that's always changing." Adventure, friendship and a whole lot of mischief await on the riverbank! Join Mole, Ratty, Badger, and the irrepressible Mr. Toad in this magical world premiere adaptation of The Wind in the Willows. From acclaimed writer Anne Odeke and director Sian Burford-Thomas, The Wind in the Willows features the extraordinary talent of the Mercury Young Company. This joyful retelling brings fresh energy, Essex charm, and a contemporary twist to Kenneth Grahame's beloved tale. This heart-warming show celebrates the power of friendship, the beauty of nature, and the thrill of adventure - perfect for all ages. This production is a celebration of local talent, from page to stage. With a vibrant young cast and an Essex-based creative team, The Wind in the Willows promises to be a feel-good family treat you won't want to miss. Come along and support the next generation of theatre-makers as they bring a classic to life with heart and humour. Mercury Young Company Mercury Young Company, or MYC, is our year-round ensemble of young people training to be the theatre-makers of tomorrow. Our groups meet weekly to explore playful new methods of storytelling and create exciting pieces of theatre. Our fun, friendly classes focus on training young people to work together as an ensemble. Cooperation, collaboration and communication are our goals. The Wind in the Willows will be the young people's first full production on the main stage. Accessibility: and Content to Consider This is a family show, but further details around content will be released in due course.

The naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world. Brace yourselves for BBC Gastronaut Stefan Gates' revolutionary, high-tech, highly-explosive new show, packed with outrageous science stunts. On the surface it's a riot of disgusting experiments built to delight young audiences but under the bonnet it's a brilliantly-constructed curriculum-driven adventure designed to inspire Britain's kids with a lasting fascination for science. Expect enormous bottoms, frt machines, snot cocktails, vast whoopee cushions, pee-powered fireworks and ear-wax-oozing mannequins in this celebration of the fascinating bodily science essential to life. The show transforms complex biology, physics and chemistry into educational hilarity using Stef's signature stunts and encyclopaedic science knowledge. Stefan Gates is an award-winning presenter of 20 TV series (including five for CBBC including Incredible Edibles, Gastrolab and Gastronuts), and a STEM author of 12 books (including Fartology and Science You Can Eat), and he's internationally renowned for his clever, high-octane, highly-educational stage shows that inspire young audiences to fall in love with science.

Posting Letters to the Moon is a romantic, funny and very touching portrait of life during the second World War, featuring readings of letters between Oscar nominated actress Celia Johnson (Brief Encounter) and her explorer and writer husband Peter Fleming (brother of James Bond creator Ian Fleming) posted to India and the Far East during the war working for Military Intelligence. The letters are read by their daughter Lucy Fleming (Love Sarah, The Archers) and her husband Simon Williams (Upstairs Downstairs, The Archers, EastEnders), and give an insight into a young mother's life coping during the war and tell of Celia Johnson's experience of filming with Noël Coward, David Lean and her thoughts while making the classic film Brief Encounter in 1945. Not only are the letters highly engaging, but they also provide a fascinating historical insight into that time of true austerity and fearfulness. The show also includes a Q&A at the end.

Hot on the heels of his fourth sell-out UK tour, the nation's favourite clairvoyant medium, from Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights, Clinton Baptiste is back with a new live show for 2026 and beyond! In a rudderless world, mankind needs an envoy to gather solutions from the all-knowing, all-seeing Afterlife. But who should it be? Of course, there's only one man for the job - Clinton Baptiste. Receiving the audiences' queries and earthbound dilemmas, Clinton will then reach out to spirits for answers. Fear not. He will probe sensitively. Spiritual connection. Mystical congress… …Spectral Intercourse.

Presented by Mercury Adult Company Join us for Love and Information, Caryl Churchill's electrifying exploration of modern life, staged by the Mercury Adult Company and directed by Forest Morgan. This bold and fast-paced production delves into the ways we connect, communicate, and cope in an age of overwhelming data and fleeting intimacy. Comprising over 50 short scenes, Love and Information weaves together a tapestry of human stories - some funny, some poignant, all deeply resonant. From whispered secrets to digital overload, Churchill's razor-sharp writing captures the noise and nuance of everyday life with wit, insight, and emotional depth. Forest Morgan brings a fresh and dynamic vision to this modern classic, guiding a talented ensemble from the Mercury Adult Company in a production that is both intimate and expansive. Whether you're a Churchill aficionado or discovering her work for the first time, this performance promises to leave you thinking long after the final blackout. Don't miss your chance to witness this thought-provoking theatrical experience. Book your tickets now and immerse yourself in the chaos, humour, and heartbreak of Love and Information. Transport Bursary for Schools We have a limited number of transport bursary places available for schools to support them accessing the theatre. Find out more and apply via the form below. Schools Transport Bursary Application Form Studio Event Please note that this performance takes place in our smaller Studio Theatre. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Bringing her fresh, unapologetic and charismatic real talk to theatres across the country, The One Like Judi Love hits theatres on her first official tour! Expect unrelenting and hilarious anecdotes from Judi's life! Expect unrelenting and hilarious anecdotes from Judi's life! Regular panellist on Loose Women and as seen on Taskmaster, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Graham Norton Show, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, and The Royal Variety Performance.

Join Peter Bleksley, a founding member of Scotland Yard’s undercover unit and former star of Channel 4’s Hunted, as he lifts the lid on the most dangerous and hidden aspects of murder investigations. From the gritty realities of infiltrating criminal gangs to his own terrifying experience of becoming the target of a murder plot, Peter shares the untold stories of the most high-stakes cases. For over a decade, Peter worked undercover, posing as everything from drug dealers to contract killers. His double life gave him access to the darkest corners of humanity, uncovering secrets that would save lives - but at the cost of his own safety. Forced into witness protection by an FBI-uncovered assassination plot, his career as a detective came to an abrupt end, leaving him with chilling memories of murderers and the justice system that hunts them. Prepare for an unforgettable evening of true crime as Peter Bleksley reveals the harrowing reality behind solving murders and battling the criminal underworld. This is crime-fighting as you’ve never seen it before.

Across the Square Productions presents Across the Square On a cold December day 1917, Lady Ottoline Morrell has crossed Bedford Square to call on Millicent Fawcett to express her condolences for the loss of a beloved sister. As patroness of the Bloomsbury Group, Ottolines vast circle of friends includes Prime Ministers and novelists, painters and philosophers, whilst Millicent has dedicated her life to the crusade for womens suffrage. Will these two find common ground, shared values? Two differing world views are about to collide over a glass of sherry.

Get ready to rock out with Colchester Operatic Society Second Edition (CO2) and their next production of We Will Rock You, the electrifying jukebox musical that's taken the world by storm! Featuring over 20 of Queen's greatest hits - including Bohemian Rhapsody, Somebody to Love, Don't Stop Me Now and of course, We Will Rock You - this futuristic musical delivers a high-energy, feel-good night of unforgettable music and rebellion. Set in a dystopian future where live music is banned and individuality is crushed, We Will Rock You follows a group of young rebels - the Bohemians - as they fight to bring back free thought, fashion and rock 'n' roll. When two unlikely heroes, Galileo and Scaramouche, revolt against the tyrannical Globalsoft Corporation, they embark on a quest to rediscover the legendary music of the past and ignite a revolution. Packed with laughter, rebellion, and rock anthems that shake the rafters, We Will Rock You is a musical celebration of freedom, identity, and the power of music to change the world. Are you ready to break free? Accessibility: This show contains adult language and innuendo. There is a captioned performance on Sun 20 Sep, 5pm. Offers There is a group offer of £2 off if you buy 10 or more tickets (please note: this does not apply to opening night). You can get 15% off if you purchase tickets to Guys and Dolls and We Will Rock You at the same time. This will be automatically applied when tickets to both shows are in your basket.

Maybe you've lost your marbles… or maybe you've found the most transformative piece of theatre that you'll see this year. Probably both. Nominated for a London Pub Theatres award in its debut run, Funeral Teeth promises a night of chaos. What and who are we allowed to grieve? And does that really matter? Loss is the only truly universal experience. Whether it's coming to terms with the passing of a loved one, tucking the first tooth you've lost under your pillow, or realising that you have no idea where your wallet is after spending a blurry night boozing at the pub - we've all been there. What's more, we're going to keep coming face to face with loss. Lose yourself in the latest piece by Succulent Theatre, unpacking what loss looks like to them, what it looks like to you, and what it could look like for all of us. Following the success of their debut show Nasty, about 'Big' girls being gross, mean and sexy', the Succulent girlies are back with another queer, autobiographical, confessional piece of theatre that's gut-busting and gut-wrenching in equal measure. Death, grief and loss can be scary to talk about, but if we don't, we just feel alone. And grief already makes you feel alone. It's not all doom and gloom, though. This feel-good tragicomedy will remind you that life is a celebration and every loss you experience is an opportunity for you to grow. Drugs, sex, love, family and friendship are at the centre of this contemplative work which really puts the 'fun' in funeral. The stories shared are painfully true, often painfully funny, and will hold a mirror up to your own experiences in a way that you might not expect. In their signature style, Succulent dexterously guides you through their losses from cradle to grave. Come watch them pick at a brand new scab and see what comes oozing out. Accessibility: and Content to Consider This show contains some flashing lights, sexual references and swearing throughout. There are scenes involving discussion of suicide, self-harm, sexual assault, rape, eating disorders and death. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Britain's Got Talent Winner Richard Jones 2025 Tour: The Sound of Magic Richard Jones, The Military Illusionist, captivated the nation's heart and mind, earning his spot as the first and only magician to conquer the stage of Britain's Got Talent. Now, he's ready to raise the bar even higher. With his unparalleled talents and a bag of never-before-seen tricks up his sleeve, Richard will have you questioning the very fabric of reality! Whether you're a die-hard magic enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable night of wondrous entertainment, The Sound of Magic promises to be an experience you will be talking about for years to come. Your ticket is a golden key to a realm of inexplicable feats, unbelievable illusions, and a sense of awe that will rejuvenate your belief in the extraordinary! The show will highlight the special link between music and our imagination while taking us on an empowering feel good journey. Richard says: "Join me on a journey where we will experience truly impossible things come to life before our eyes". VIP Tickets The show also offers an exciting VIP Ticket option, allowing fans the unique personal experience of meeting Richard Jones before the show for an exclusive 30 minutes of close-up magic, poster signing, a photo opportunity and a gift. VIP ticket holders should arrive for 6pm.

A Tribute to the award-winning folk-rock band Mumford & Sons The Mumford & Sons Story recreates the incredible tale of the floor-stomping folk-rock band who took the world by storm. Four masterful live musicians come together in waistcoats, skinny jeans and bushy beards to celebrate the best of Mumford & Sons’ iconic music and their explosive rise to fame. With all the very best hits, including Little Lion Man, I Will Wait, The Cave, Rushmere and many more, this is a stomp and holler not to be missed!

Lipstick On Your Collar is back with its brand new show. Step back in time to the golden era of music where the jukebox roared and feet didn't touch the floor. Get your dancing shoes at the ready, grab yourself a milkshake and relax - you are in for an evening of back to back hits from the 1950s and 60s! From the birth of Rock n Roll through to the Beat Group sounds of the British Invasion and beyond, the show is packed with over forty hits from the likes of Connie Francis, Brenda Lee, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, The Ronettes, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and many more. Performed by a full live band, featuring some of the country's top musicians, this incredible show features excellent vocals, tight harmonies and an infectious sense of fun. Dancing in the aisles is strictly compulsory so bring your dancing shoes and let the good times roll!

Hailed as an intensely moving new musical drama Our Little Hour tells the pioneering story of Walter Tull - the first black footballer to play at the highest level of the domestic game in the UK and the first man of his heritage to become an Officer in the British Army before being tragically killed in 1918 at the Second Battle of The Somme. Written by award winning playwright Dougie Blaxland and including 16 hauntingly beautiful original songs Our Little Hour is a show not to be missed!

Lee shares his stage with a tough-talking werewolf comedian from the dark forests of the subconscious who hates humanity. The Man-Wulf lays down a ferocious comedy challenge to the culturally irrelevant and physically enfeebled Lee. Can the beast inside us all be silenced with the silver bullet of Lee's unprecedentedly critically acclaimed style of stand-up? Stewart Lee ("The world's greatest living stand-up comedian" The Times), is in danger of being left behind. He's approaching sixty with debilitating health conditions, his TV profile has diminished, and his once BAFTA award-winning style of stand-up seems obsolete. But can Lee unleash his inner Man-Wulf to position himself alongside comedy legends like Dave Chappelle, Ricky Gervais and Jordan Peterson at the forefront of side-splitting stadium-stuffing shit-posting? Ticket prices for this event include a venue restoration levy.

Step back in time and relive the magic of one of America's most iconic rock bands, Creedence Clearwater Revival! Creedence Clearwater Review proudly presents The Cosmos Factory Tour, a vibrant celebration of the legendary 1970 Cosmo's Factory album and all of the timeless hits of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Join us for an unforgettable night of high-energy rock 'n' roll as we transport you back to the heady days of Woodstock and the electrifying sounds of American Rock in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This is not just a concert, it's a journey through the music that defined a generation! Sing along to classic anthems like Bad Moon Rising,"Proud Mary, Have You Ever Seen the Rain and Fortunate Son. Experience the essence of Creedence Clearwater Revival with beloved tracks from Cosmo's Factory, including Who'll Stop the Rain, Run Through The Jungle and Up Around the Bend, together with their famous versions of the hit records I Heard It Through The Grapevine, Suzie Q and I Put A Spell On You. With pitch-perfect renditions and a stage presence that channels the spirit of Creedence Clearwater Revival's legendary live performances, Creedence Clearwater Review delivers an American rock experience like no other. Vintage, original instruments and 60s-inspired outfits enhance the authenticity, transporting you right back into a CCR concert in their prime. Get ready for audience participation, rousing sing-alongs, and fascinating stories that bring the band's history and cultural impact. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering their music, you'll be swept away by the nostalgic vibe and infectious energy of the night as we celebrate the legacy of CCR and John Fogerty. Having captivated audiences across the UK and Europe, including a special performance in London at The O2 Arena's VIP Lounge for John Fogerty's guests in 2018, Creedence Clearwater Review has earned its reputation as the UK's #1 tribute to CCR. Their power-packed performances have sold out venues and theatres across the world since 2012, and now it's your turn to experience the magic! This is more than just a tribute show, it's a heartfelt homage to a band that shaped the soundtrack of an era. Creedence Clearwater Review will take you on a nostalgia trip you won't want to miss.

From the creators of the smash-hit theatre and arena show Taylor Fever comes Bitter Sweet, the incredible tribute concert to pop mega-stars Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo! Carpenters and Livvies alike will rejoice in a spectacular show packed with pop smash hits, heartbreak anthems and the undeniable thrill of friendly rivalry. Bitter Sweet will captivate audiences of all ages with a high-energy concert experience that brings together unforgettable hits like Drivers License and Vampire, alongside Carpenter favourites like Espresso and Nonsense. Don't miss the dazzling lighting effects that make this the ultimate duel-concert event for pop fans everywhere. Gather your friends and family for an epic show that you'll never forget! Find out more at bittersweetshow.com. Make your night unforgettable with an exclusive Meet & Greet experience! Book a VIP ticket and you'll get the chance to meet our stars of the show, snap a selfie and more. This special experience takes place after the show. These spaces are limited, so don't miss out — book your VIP ticket now! Accessibility: This is open to all ages. The show contains haze and there will be two confetti cannons used.

Packed with personality and humour, Crooners has been wowing audiences with its witty and exhilarating show full of hilarious one liners, laugh out loud silliness and superb musical numbers with the outstanding 9-piece The Mini Big Band live on stage. This hilarious original comedy music production pays homage to some of the greatest Crooners of all time with a splendiferous injection of Britishness. Featuring humour, tap dance and some of the most quintessential songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Matt Monro, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin.

Don't Stop Us Now - and there's certainly no stopping this comprehensive re-enactment of Queen's greatest hits! One of the UK's longest-running and internationally renowned Queen tribute bands, The Bohemians, takes you on a high-energy roller-coaster ride of a concert. Featuring the music, costumes, and showmanship of one of the world's most popular and iconic rock acts of all time, Queen. Billed as 'the world's most exciting Queen tribute', The Bohemians start proceedings as they mean to continue. Right from the beginning, you will be gripped by a bombastic, authentic audiovisual representation of Queen's iconic Wembley '86 performance as The Bohemians burst onto the stage to the strains of One Vision and A Kind of Magic. So many fabulous hits to be covered, but they're all here, from the early piano and harmony-heavy wonders of Killer Queen and Don't Stop Me Now, to the later, catchy pop anthems of the eighties. The second hour focuses on the later hits, and once again, there is an array of brilliance to be embraced. The stunning Breakthru provides both the introduction and the costume presentation for this part of the set, which includes a new feature of The Bohemians' stage show — a slick rendering of classics from the late 80s and early 90s era. I Want It All, The Show Must Go On and the haunting Days of Our Lives are just some of those featured. The set then pays tribute to the sights and sounds of the famous Live Aid performance, and of course, the awesome Bohemian Rhapsody. Then it's back to Wembley '86 for a spectacular finale when The Bohemians will have you on your feet, singing, dancing and clapping along to the likes of Radio Ga Ga, We Will Rock You and We Are the Champions. A climax to a truly memorable live re-enactment of the world's greatest rock band! Offers Group offer: Groups of 10 or more can get 10% off the total order. This will automatically apply at checkout. Family offer: Our Family of 4 Ticket Offer give £2 off the total paid when 2 standard and 2 concessions tickets are bought together. This will automatically apply at checkout. Ultra Early Bird: The discount code of ULTRAEARLYQ gives access to tickets at £19 (plus levy) if booked before 11.59pm on Wed 31 Dec 2025. You must quote the code at box office or enter the code online to access the discount. Early Bird: The discount code of EARLYBIRDQ gives access to tickets at £22.50 (plus levy) if booked between 00.01 on Thu 1 Jan 2025 and before 11.59pm on Fri 27 Feb 2026. You must quote the code at box office or enter the code online to access the discount. Please note: The offers are only valid for the performance mentioned above. Discounts cannot be applied retrospectively to tickets already purchased. Offers are subject to availability. Standard terms and conditions of purchase apply.

David Benson burst onto the theatre scene in 1996, taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm with Think No Evil Of Us: My Life with Kenneth Williams. Critics, audiences and close friends of Williams were unanimous in their praise. Thirty years on, and in celebration of Kenneth Williams' 100th Birthday, David Benson revisits his classic portrait of the much-missed Carry On star in a new version of the show exploring the astonishing connection that intertwined his life with that of Williams when Benson was still a schoolboy. In a dazzling display of impeccably honed stage craft, Benson gives an unsparing portrayal of the tormented comic genius, lurching from hilarity to self-pity in public and in private. A captivating raconteur in his own right, Benson has many tales to tell of his time as 'the man who does Kenneth Williams' and the adventures he has had since in an unconventional career. David Benson has most recently been seen touring nationwide with Jack Lane in their acclaimed Dad's Army Radio Show.

Dare you enter a world infected by fear? Eight million miles from Earth, a mysterious distress call crackles through the ether and draws Flint, a haunted space ranger, towards the Odyssey - an ageing research vessel in the grip of a nightmare. Boarding the craft, he finds a failing ship, a missing crew, and a deadly force running out of control… The Void is a chilling sci-fi horror created for the stage - a decaying future of desperate humans, all-seeing AI, and memories of a distant, dangerous past. Combining powerful illusions, atmospheric projections and a creeping sense of dread, this story asks… what are you afraid of? Content to Consider This show is 13+ and contains loud noises, scenes of violence, haze and flashing lights.

In an exceptional exploration of one of Britain's greatest actors, Zeb Soanes brings the life of Sir Alec Guinness to stage across the UK, marking the 25th anniversary of his death. With nearly 70 plays, 50 films, over a dozen television dramas, and two Oscars to his name, Sir Alec Guinness' career spanned Shakespeare, the beloved Ealing comedies, and Hollywood classics. Yet he feared he would only be remembered for one role: Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars. Two Halves of Guinness is a witty, heartfelt tour through Guinness' extraordinary life and career - his encounters with John Gielgud, Shakespeare, the greats of stage and screen, and the galaxy of stars who shaped his journey. Acclaimed broadcaster and actor Zeb Soanes stars as Alec Guinness. Known as one of the most recognisable voices in the UK through his years on BBC Radio 4 (Today Programme, Shipping Forecast) and now on Classic FM, Soanes also acted in numerous BBC radio dramas alongside David Warner, Toby Jones, and Simon Russell Beale. When Soanes was 17 years old, he wrote a letter of admiration to Sir Alec Guinness - his hero - and received a neatly hand-written reply within a week, wishing him luck in his career. Now, decades later, Soanes embodies Guinness on stage, lending his rich voice and virtuosity to once again breathe life into the legendary actor and the unforgettable figures who shaped his career. Zeb Soanes comments, "Alec Guinness had an enigmatic quality that drew you into his performances - to join him in whichever game he was playing. His ability to inhabit such a vast array of characters, exploring the many faces of himself, was hugely appealing to me when I was growing up and inspired me to pursue a career in acting. Now, 25 years since his death, it is a delight to celebrate his remarkable talent - and in many of the theatres he knew." Written by Mark Burgess (Einstein in Cromer with David Suchet; The Wrong Hero; A King's Speech for BBC Radio 4), the play combines Burgess' sharp storytelling with the seasoned hand of director Selina Cadell (Twelfth Night; Uncle Vanya, Donmar Warehouse; Great Expectations, Garrick Theatre; Hamlet starring Eddie Izzard). Set design is by Lee Newby (Starter for Ten, Bristol Old Vic, Birmingham Rep; Barnum, Watermill Theatre; The Last Five Years, Garrick Theatre) and music is by Eliza Thompson whose credits span film, television, and theatre, including The Madness of King George (1994), The Importance of Being Earnest (2002), and Eddie Izzard's Hamlet. Produced by Julian Bird for Green Room Ents, Two Halves of Guinness offers a rare chance to rediscover one of Britain's finest actors beyond the Jedi robe, with wit, warmth, and theatrical imagination.

Put on your Blue Suede Shoes and come celebrate the music of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll with the UK’s supreme Elvis – Rob Kingsley – and his talented cast. This breath-taking recreation of a live Elvis Presley concert takes you on an epic audio- visual journey through time like you've never seen before including: It's Now or Never - The Wonder of You - Burning Love – In the Ghetto Suspicious Minds - American Trilogy and many, many more. Rob’s contact with the audience is immediate – As soon as the show begins you are taken on an emotional roller coaster, engaging audiences with a truly authentic Elvis musical spectacular! Officially Endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) for charitable contributions and Officially Endorsed by Mr Ed Bonja – Elvis’s Photographer and Road Manager (1970-1977) who said: “On stage Rob Kingsley looks extraordinarily like Elvis. He sings like Elvis, but most importantly, he seems to capture the very soul of Elvis – his charisma, his gestures – hell, he even walks like Elvis!" Performing to thousands of fans in major theatres, festivals and arenas worldwide, A Vision of Elvis made history by being the first Elvis tribute artist to perform at the New Wembley Stadium to over 50,000 people.

The Comedy Club As Seen on TV Returns to Colchester for a Night of Unmissable Laughter! Comedy Club 30th Anniversary: Colchester Special 4 Headliners, One Unmissable Night! Celebrate three decades of laughter with The Official Comedy Club, the nation's comedy experts for 30 incredible years. Witness 4 phenomenal comedians from television and online, each bringing their unique style and unforgettable punchlines. From razor-sharp wit to outrageous storytelling, this laughter-charged showcase guarantees something for everyone. Why settle for just one act-enjoy four headline stars in one extraordinary evening of joy! Book now to secure seats for this exclusive one-night anniversary spectacular! The Comedy Club, one of the most recognised and trusted names in the comedy industry, is bringing its hilarious, five-star comedy showcase to the Mercury Theatre. Known for delivering the very best comedians from across the UK and beyond, this is your chance to experience a night of side-splitting entertainment like no other. What to Expect Prepare yourself for a night of unstoppable laughter as The Comedy Club delivers 4 top comedians, handpicked from the UK's vibrant comedy circuit. These talented performers are no strangers to TV screens and headline gigs, playing to sold-out venues across the country every week. Now, they're coming to Colchester, bringing their razor-sharp wit, hilarious anecdotes, and punchlines guaranteed to leave you in stitches. Why Choose The Comedy Club? For 30 years, The Comedy Club has been at the forefront of live comedy, providing top-quality entertainment across the UK and internationally. Trusted by businesses, venues, and comedy fans alike, our shows are renowned for their professionalism, top-notch performers, and, of course, non-stop laughter. For the full line-up of comedians We've entertained thousands with our expert blend of talent, ensuring every event is an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a regular at comedy nights or new to live stand-up, this show promises to be a highlight of your summer in Colchester. Details You Need to Know Top Comedians Seen on TV: As featured on shows like Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, and more! Unmatched Comedy Experience: Perfect for comedy lovers, first-timers, or anyone who simply needs a great night out. Stunning Venue: The amazing Mercury Theatre provides the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable evening of comedy. Category: Arts | Performing Arts | Comedy Price: From: GBP 22.00 Artists : Jeff Innocent, Rudi Lickwood, Kate Martin, Harry Pettit

Nella Racksole wants steak and beer for her birthday treat, but these are not on the menu of the exclusive Grand Babylon Hotel – so her American Railroad Millionaire father obligingly buys the chef… the kitchen… the entire hotel. However, The Grand Babylon is not all it seems, and Theodore Racksole soon discovers there’s more than a juicy steak on his plate – with kidnapping and murder for starters! Have Theodore and Nella bitten off more than they can chew? The Grand Babylon Hotel is a rollicking comedy thriller, with a virtuoso cast of five bringing you many faces, chases, glamour, intrigue, and a couple of German princes thrown in for good measure. A riotous evening out!

“When you have one of the first brains of Europe up against you, and all the powers of darkness at his back, there are infinite possibilities” London, 1901. As the British Empire wages war in the name of a Queen whose health is failing, a series of mysterious events reveals a crack in the high corridors of power. A crack that threatens to destabilise monarchy, government and Empire. And at its centre, controlling the flow of information and influence, a shadowy figure plans a final deadly move. Drawn into the game and unsure who to trust, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson find themselves confronting figures from their past in a desperate race against time, aware that the most powerful person in the world could be in the pocket of one of the most corrupt. But just how much is Holmes willing to sacrifice as he faces ‘checkmate’? A thrilling adventure based on the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty is a world premiere combining powerful performances, a haunting soundscape and innovative design for an exhilarating theatrical experience.

Get ready to be dazzled by The Dazzling Diamonds! The Dazzling Diamonds make a triumphant return with a brand-new comedy variety drag show. From jaw-dropping dance numbers to hilarious lip-sync performances and not forgetting the sensational live vocals, the cast are pulling out all the stops to make this show as unforgettable as the last! But don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about your fan favourites! You can still expect to see the iconic performances that have made The Dazzling Diamonds a hit. So gather your friends, put on your most fabulous outfit, and join us for a night of glitz, glamour, and pure entertainment. The Dazzling Diamonds are ready to shine bright and make your night one to remember!

Presented by the East Anglian Touring Consortium. "A radio station for young people! Why do we need that? We both enjoy Housewives choice, don't we Caroline?" 1964, Clacton-on-Sea. Caroline and her best friend Mary spend their days stacking shelves and return home to their mothers listening to Housewives Choice on the BBC. Every night they escape to the pier to eat chips, laugh and talk about music with Caroline's charismatic boyfriend Robbie. But a music revolution is coming, and Robbie lands a shock gig with Radio Caroline - the pirate radio station blasting pop, soul and rock 'n' roll into every home in Britain. Overnight, Caroline is hurled into a whirlwind of music, mischief, and a cultural rebellion that will rewrite history. She's not a DJ. She's not a rock star. But in the middle of Britain's radio revolution, Caroline might just steal the show. Powered by the sound of the 60s, Caroline is a bold, funny, and heart-filled new musical about love, ambition, and finding the courage to turn up the volume on your own voice. Content to Consider and Accessibility If you'd prefer to attend a Relaxed Performance (where lighting and sound effects will be reduced), we will be holding this on Thu 11 Jun, 2.30pm. This will also be a BSL interpreted performance. Sat 13 Jun, 2.30pm will be our Audio Described performance with pre-show Touch Tour available at 1pm. Sat 13 Jun, 7.30pm will be our Captioned performance. If you are attending a relaxed performance, or would like to know more about specific elements of the show, our social story will be available nearer the show (please be aware that this will contain spoilers). If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

A brand-new family musical for everyone aged 5+. Meet Toto. She might look like an ordinary cat, but she’s no ordinary feline. Almost completely blind, Toto has incredible ninja skills, a big heart, and a nose for adventure. By day, she naps like any other pet… but by night, she’s out on daring missions with her cheeky brother, Silver. In their very first adventure, a deadly King Cobra has escaped onto the streets of London, and it’s up to Toto to use every ounce of her courage and cunning to save the day. Based on Dermot O’Leary’s best-selling children’s book, illustrated by Nick East , this purr-fectly thrilling tale is filled with original music, laugh-out-loud fun, and extraordinary puppetry, promising fun for the whole family.

Five-time Olivier Award winner Imelda Staunton joins forces with her real-life daughter Bessie Carter for the very first time, playing mother and daughter in Bernard Shaw’s incendiary moral classic. Vivie Warren is a woman ahead of her time. Her mother, however, is a product of that old patriarchal order. Exploiting it has earned Mrs. Warren a fortune – but at what cost? Filmed live from the West End, this new production reunites Staunton with director Dominic Cooke exploring the clash between morality and independence, traditions and progress.

Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question – you know the one. National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.

Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman starring in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David Ireland. After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five – the moment of confession – dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.

Our annual Christmas concert is back! Join us for a jolly holly afternoon of seasonal songs, readings and magical performances from our talented panto cast & Mercury staff in this festive treat for all the family. Don't forget to warm up those vocal chords! Please note that our Café Bar will be closed following this performance so our staff can have a well deserved evening off during the busy festive period. This year tickets are £2 which will act as a donation towards our chosen charities - East of England Ambulance Service Charity and Essex Herts Air Ambulance - but will also enable us to make the concert more accessible. If you cannot afford to donate, you can access free tickets by selecting "Standard" from the dropdown options once you've added tickets to your basket. There will also be opportunities to donate to our chosen charities on the day. Due to the popularity of this event and wanting to keep it as open for as many members of our community as possible to attend, you can book a maximum of 4 tickets per customer. Accessibility: This concert will be BSL interpreted.

Albatross by Martha Loader Albatross is a compelling new play from award-winning Martha Loader that takes us to the very boundaries of love and devotion in the age of climate catastrophe. Alice returns from a gruelling Antarctic odyssey to her daughter Alba and her mother Eve. Everything has changed. There's been a flood, a funeral, and a new romance. It's 1.30am. Alba sleeps, while Eve has never been more awake. And Alice? Maybe those cracks she discovered in the Antarctic ice have followed her home… Albatross encounters mighty questions of motherhood, the explorer's soul and how to be a hero in today's world. Strong characters, sharp humour and urgent story make for a unique clash of the epic and the domestic. Martha Loader's riveting take on the family drama genre is about these intimate ties - do they make us act with more care or merely blind us to catastrophe? Accessibility: This show contains some strong language, and may contain haze. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Sienna is trying to deal with her grief by clinging on tightly to what she knows - in short, she's seeing her dead sister everywhere she goes. Not only seeing her, but having full on conversations with her. As Emily's presence becomes more and more overwhelming, seeping into her relationship, damaging her performance at work, and straining her commitment to her ailing parents, the line between happiness and delusion becomes blurred. How do you truly let go of someone when you imagined they'd be there forever? All The Happy Things is an award nominated dark comedy about the power of sisterhood and grief, told through a Global Majority lens. Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 14+. Please be aware that this show contains the use of haze; swearing; references to sex; and themes of grief, specifically sibling loss. Group Bookings Booking for a group? If you book 8 tickets or more at the same time, you will receive a 20% discount! Studio Event Please note that this performance takes place in our smaller Studio Theatre. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

50 years since ABBA's iconic Arrival album first lit up the charts, the multi-award-winning show that shares the same name, Arrival - The Hits of ABBA, is back with a brand-new production! This year, the show is more immersive than ever. Alongside even more songs from the landmark 'Arrival' album and the addition of interactive video projection, you can sing along to the lyrics on screen at the top of your lungs and become part of the performance! With sensational vocals, expert musicianship, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking visuals, Arrival - The Hits of ABBA takes you on an unforgettable journey through the timeless music that changed pop history. From the Eurovision-winning Waterloo to infectious disco anthems like Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, Mamma Mia, Voulez-Vous, and Fernando, every song will have you dancing in the aisles and singing along with pure joy and nostalgia! Whether you've been a fan since day one or are discovering their magic for the first time, this is the ultimate celebration of a legendary band and the Arrival album that helped define an era. Accessibility: and Content to Consider Haze and some strobe lighting will be used during the performance.

Liebenspiel Presents Clementine Lady Clementine has until her 27th birthday to find The One. When her latest beau goes missing, she embarks on a hilariously unhinged quest to solve the mystery of her ill fortune. But with neither sense nor sensibility, will our romantic heroine find love in time? Set roughly "in the past", this is a story about sickly sisters, self-love and Sylvanian Families. Bonnets at the ready, ladies, for the debut character comedy show of the (Scorpio) season. Directed by Tristan Robinson. British Comedy Guide Best Reviewed Shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Top 10 Comedy shows 2023 Guardian Cultural Highlights 2025 The Times & The Guardian Funniest Shows at the Edinburgh Fringe 2023 & 2024 Telegraph Funniest Shows at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024 - The Skinny Featured in Stylist, BBC Radio, 5 Live, Shortlisted Funny Women Winner Chorts Winner Luke Rollason Bursary Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 16+. Please be aware that this show contains audience participation; strobe lighting; and strong language/swearing. Group Bookings Booking for a group? If you book 4 or more tickets at the same time, tickets are £10 plus levy! Studio Event Please note that this performance takes place in our smaller Studio Theatre. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

4 Headliners, One Unmissable Night! Witness 4 phenomenal comedians from television and online, each bringing their unique style and unforgettable punchlines. From razor-sharp wit to outrageous storytelling, this laughter-charged showcase guarantees something for everyone. Why settle for just one act—enjoy four headline stars in one extraordinary evening of joy! 4 top TV comedians line up to be announced early 2026… Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 18+. This show contains adult humour.

Comedy Club 30th Anniversary: Colchester Special - 4 Headliners, One Unmissable Night! Celebrate three decades of laughter with The Official Comedy Club, the nation's comedy experts for 30 incredible years. Witness 4 phenomenal comedians from television and online, each bringing their unique style and unforgettable punchlines. From razor-sharp wit to outrageous storytelling, this laughter-charged showcase guarantees something for everyone.

Clare Summerskill presents Why God Created Lesbians In her brand-new one-woman show, Clare Summerskill attempts to explain the point of the perplexing sexual minority to which she belongs, asking why lesbians exist? Is it to ease the pressure on cat rescue centres? Is it to ensure that Shibden Hall remains a viable tourist attraction? Or is it to write one-woman comedy shows featuring songs, standup and storytelling? After decades of field research, she thinks she has the answer. Expect silliness, satire and self-deprecation from crowd-pleaser Clare Summerskill as she hits the road with her funniest show yet. Clare will share the previously unheard story of the lesbian squirrel on the Ark, forced to take up a complaint about compulsory heterosexuality with Noah himself; and she will finally uncover the Almighty's real opinion about women-loving-women. A packed comedy show from 'one of the funniest women in the country' (What's On) with a keen fanbase across the UK (gay and straight!). Clare has previously written for BBC Radio 4's Weekending and Heated Rollers and toured her shows to theatres in the UK and the US. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Get ready for a riotous, fast-paced comedy following the lives of three loud, no-nonsense Liverpool women and one nervous newcomer, all navigating life, love, loyalty, and lipstick on a tightly knit street. Susan, Vanessa and Lily dominate the street with their big personalities, big voices, and even bigger secrets. But everything is turned upside down with the arrival of Trisha, a single mum from Manchester, thrown into the lion's den of long-established friendships and fierce loyalty. Starring TV comedy legend Crissy Rock (Benidorm, I'm A Celebrity) and the shows writer and director Lynne Fitzgerald. Desperate Scousewives is packed with unforgettable one-liners, high heels, heartbreak and hilarity. Not for the faint-hearted! Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 16+. This show contains some adult language.

There is only one word used in our show - it's 'Hay!' Like the stuffing in Geenie's scarecrow, 'Hay!' like the sound she makes when he comes to life and 'Hay!' when he sees all the wonders of the natural world for the first time. Only one word but so many meanings in a show about growing up in the heart of the countryside and discovering that you don't have to stay stuck in the mud - you can live your dreams, spread your wings and fly like the birds. A highly accessible show filled with music, clowning, song and dance. In this beautiful story Farmer Geenie guides scarecrow step by step as he finds his feet, then his hands, his voice, his legs and his love of song and dance in a story about the fun of growing up where everyday there's something new to make you say 'Hay!' Our two very talented physical theatre performers are expert clowns and so our show doesn't use any words - everything is told in a fantastically clear way through sound, dance, music and our incredibly inventive props which playfully represent the essential elements of nature that this show celebrates. We've got charming puppets - the birds of course and also the butterflies and bees - and some very wonderful eggs each with their own particular surprises. All of this means that our show is highly accessible and perfect for a younger age-group who will be giggling all the way through this gentle introduction to what theatre can be - sweet, funny, inclusive and uplifting. For those who know the countryside this show will be full of shared moments and for those who aren't so familiar with our green spaces they will want to continue the journey they will start with this show into how best to live in harmony and protect our environment. Accessibility: and Content to Consider Age guidance 3+. Pick one up on your way in! Studio Event Please note that this performance takes place in our smaller Studio Theatre. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here. Group Bookings Booking for a group? Enjoy £2 off per ticket when 10 or more tickets are bought at the same time!.

Parody Of The Rings is a hilarious and epic adventure! What happens when a cinema's Lord of the Rings marathon goes terribly wrong? At the local cinema, all hell breaks loose when the ushers misplace the DVDs of The Lord of the Rings trilogy - every single copy! With only the soundtracks left in hand, the team of hapless ushers must somehow improvise an entire three-film saga in front of a live audience. Get ready for an uproarious evening of comedy, chaos and utter nonsense, as they attempt to recreate the epic tale of hobbits, elves, and orcs - without any visuals, any planning, or any clue what they're doing. Will Frodo ever make it to Mordor? Will Aragorn get crowned king? Will Gollum stop stealing the show? Will anyone even remember who's supposed to be who?! It's a show that's more fun than a barrel of hobbits, and definitely more chaotic than a Gandalf speech. If you've ever wanted to see Gollum fight a battle with sound effects, or Gandalf desperately trying to remember what happens next, then you're in for a hilarious treat! Accessibility: This show contains haze and flashing lights. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Step into the world of Sir Charlie Stinky Socks, where nothing is quite what it seems and a really big adventure is about to begin. Sir Charlie is bold, brave and brilliantly clever. He loves daring quests filled with wily witches, terrible beasties and fire-breathing dragons. And yes, he has a cat called Envelope! But who is this pint-sized hero and where did his story come from? Find out in this fully interactive, inventive, and fast-paced family show that brings Sir Charlie's tale to life while revealing the story behind it. Celebrating the power of children's imagination and the importance of play, young audiences are invited to become storytellers themselves, helping a troupe of travelling players build a wild adventure. Together, they turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, transform the stage, and journey into mystical realms. Based on the best-selling picture book by Kristina Stephenson, and created to mark the 20th anniversary of this much-loved, modern-day classic, the show features LIVE music, glorious puppets, interactive storytelling, magical props and more laughs than you can waft away with a stinky sock. Accessibility: and Content to Consider This show contains the use of haze and the sound of a dragon roar. All ages are welcome but the show is best suited for 3-10 year olds. Babes in Arms If you are bringing a child under 1 year (12 months) of age to a performance and they will be sitting on a lap, you will need to book a Babe in Arms ticket. You can do this by selecting an adult seat, and finding it on the supplementary page. It is £2.50 for a Babes in Arms ticket. Please contact our Box Office if you have any questions or need any help with booking.

Avalon Comedy's The Comedy Network is a monthly series of laugh-out-loud comedy nights, featuring the best up-and-coming comedians - we can promise you a great night with lots of laughs and talent. Previous line-up guests have included Sophie Duker (Taskmaster), Jayde Adams (contestant on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing), Simon Brodkin (also known as Lee Nelson) and many more. Line-up The line-up for May is Huge Davies, with more to be confirmed. Please note: Line-up subject to change.

Streisand - Woman in Love is the only show of its kind in the UK, celebrating the musical genius and unrivalled vocal talent of one of the world's most iconic and adored artistes of our generation, Barbra Streisand. Critically acclaimed for her amazing performance as Streisand, Keeley Smith (from ITV's Starstruck final) stars in this stunning show which fuses all the timeless film, musical theatre and chart classics with a full orchestral sound. Opening with Streisand's first-ever recording session at the age of 14 in 1955, get ready for a wonderful journey through the years of this legendary career. Share in the "Mem'ries", the magic and the music! This is a tribute show which is not endorsed by or affiliated with the Barbara Streisand Estate.

Avalon Comedy's The Comedy Network is a monthly series of laugh-out-loud comedy nights, featuring the best up-and-coming comedians - we can promise you a great night with lots of laughs and talent. Previous line-up guests have included Sophie Duker (Taskmaster), Jayde Adams (contestant on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing), Simon Brodkin (also known as Lee Nelson) and many more. Line-up The line-up for January is Joe Sutherland, Johnny White Really Really and Bella Hull. Please note: Line-up subject to change.

The Mayor of Colchester's Variety Show 2026 The Mayor's Variety Show will bring together some of the most talented performers in Colchester, to compete for a top prize, chosen by the Mayor. Performances will include artists from all ages, including Colchester's Comedian of the Year, some of the best young bands in Colchester (previous performers from Battle of the Bands), rappers, DJs, poets, dancers, filmmakers and acting performers. The event will raise funds for the Mayor's Charities. Content to Consider The age rating for this show is 12+. This show contains the use of haze and flashing lights. VIP Tickets Grab yourself a VIP tickets to secure the best seats in the centre of the auditorium plus a post-show meet and greet in our Upstairs Bar.

Avalon Comedy's The Comedy Network is a monthly series of laugh-out-loud comedy nights, featuring the best up-and-coming comedians - we can promise you a great night with lots of laughs and talent. Previous line-up guests have included Sophie Duker (Taskmaster), Jayde Adams (contestant on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing), Simon Brodkin (also known as Lee Nelson) and many more. Line-up The line-up for February is Steve Bugeja, Marise Gaughan and Cecily Hitchcock. Please note: Line-up subject to change.

Avalon Comedy's The Comedy Network is a monthly series of laugh-out-loud comedy nights, featuring the best up-and-coming comedians - we can promise you a great night with lots of laughs and talent. Previous line-up guests have included Sophie Duker (Taskmaster), Jayde Adams (contestant on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing), Simon Brodkin (also known as Lee Nelson) and many more. Line-up The line-up for March is Katie Norris, Garrett Millerick and Maia Tassalini. Please note: Line-up subject to change.

"I never wanted to murder anyone. It was necessary." Step into a world of deception, desire, and deadly ambition. How far would you go to become someone else? Tom Ripley is a nobody—scraping by in New York, forging signatures, telling little white lies—until a chance encounter changes everything. When a wealthy stranger offers him an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy to bring home his wayward son, Dickie Greenleaf, Tom leaps at the opportunity. But in the sun-drenched glamour of 1950s Italy, surrounded by shimmering waters and whispered secrets, Tom is seduced by the life Dickie leads—the freedom, the wealth, the effortless charm. Fascination turns to obsession, and as his grip tightens on Dickie's world, the lines between truth and deception begin to blur. What starts as an innocent opportunity spirals into a chilling game of lies, identity theft, and murder. The ten-strong ensemble cast is led by Ed McVey as Tom Ripley. Ed was one of the stars of the hit Netflix show The Crown. EastEnders regular and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Maisie Smith will star alongside him as Marge. This electrifying new stage adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley brings Patricia Highsmith's iconic psychological thriller, which inspired the acclaimed movie and Netflix series of the same name, to life like never before. With razor-sharp dialogue, simmering tension, and a dangerously charismatic antihero, this gripping production will pull you into Ripley's intoxicating world—where nothing is quite as it seems. Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 16+. This show contains scenes of a violent nature and scenes which could be triggering to people with psychological disturbance; use of strong language, smoking and haze.

Mercury Theatre Colchester, HOME Manchester & JPT PRoductions present the worldwide premiere of the Mischief Production THESPIANS ANCIENT GREECE THE MUSICAL MISCHIEF, the team behind the multi award-winning The Play That Goes Wrong, rewrite ancient history with a brand-new musical comedy, THESPIANS, the first musical created by 'the funniest theatre troupe in Britain' (The Telegraph). 534 BC. Greece's smallest island is battling to avoid defeat in a nationwide prayer competition set up by a thin-skinned tyrant - where the loser is put to death. All is going dreadfully until Thespis accidentally invents acting, leading to the world's first play and the origins of theatre as we know it! Step into the amphitheatre, leave your troubles in the foyer, and escape into Ancient Greece as it bursts into song, with a thrilling plot, a love story worthy of Aphrodite, and enough laughter to fill the Acropolis. THESPIANS is an uplifting, hilarious, and timely reminder of the power of empathy and stepping into someone else's sandals. Written by Jonathan Sayer (co-writer of The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About A Bank Robbery) and Ed Zanders (musical director Mischief Movie Night), do not miss this ancient prescription for modern day laughter packed with comedy, chaos and choreography that will have every mortal in your household aching with laughter. Limited tour from May 2026 for only 12 weeks opening at Mercury Theatre, Colchester. If you thought something funny happened on the way to the forum, wait until you hear what happened enroute to the amphitheatre! Avoid tragedy, get comedy tickets today! Content to Consider and Accessibility If you'd prefer to attend a Relaxed Performance (where lighting and sound effects will be reduced), we will be holding this on Thu 14 May, 2.30pm. Our Audio Described performance (with pre-show touch tour available) will be on Sat 23 May, 2.30pm with a pre-show Touch Tour at 1.30pm. Our Captioned performance will be on Sat 23 May, 7.30pm. If you are attending a relaxed performance, or would like to know more about specific elements of the show, our social story will be available nearer the show (please be aware that this will contain spoilers). If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Sanskruti Dance present Tree of Life What do you see when you look at a tree? Leaves and twigs and branches? Or do you see a living thing That moves and sings and dances…? Aranyani, Goddess of forests and the wild, is dying. To recover - and for the plants and animals that she supports to thrive - she needs nourishment and balance in the world. It is down to a spiritual Sage and a Scientist - and you, the audience - to discover how to save her. Tree of Life is a children's dance theatre show, suitable for children aged 7+. The show explores the connection between science and spirituality through the medium of trees and dance. It includes South Asian Bharatanatyam and contemporary Western dance, as well as an ethereal, original music score and spoken word. There is also some ingenious audience participation using the latest in Microbit technology at the end of the show. Drawing inspiration from Buddha attaining enlightenment under a Bodhi (fig) tree in India and Newton discovering gravity from an apple tree in the UK, Tree of Life weaves a tale of how these two events lead to a deepening of human understanding of our natural world, spiritually and scientifically. Accessibility: and Content to Consider This show is approximately 1 hour. This includes a 45 min performance and 15 min post-show technology workshop for children. This is an accessible performance where you can enter or exit at any point. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Money for nothing was formed in 2000 as a tribute to one of the world’s premier rock bands – Dire Straits. The abundant energy and the excellence and musicality of their performance makes Money for Nothing a “must see” for any rock enthusiast or Dire Straits fan. Fronting the band is the outstanding Howie G (who you may recognise from his years with The classic rock Show) Behind him the line-up features top-class and experienced musicians that make this band a worthy tribute to Dire Straits. Howie and all the band have studied Dire Straits in great depth to re-create their tribute to be as close as possible to the real thing and a respectful tribute to their idol and guitar legend.

K-Pop Forever! is here, LIVE on stage! Immerse yourself in the worldwide phenomenon that is K-Pop with this all-action tribute concert. Featuring all-live performances of smash-hits including: Blackpink, BTS, Twice, Soda Pop, Golden and many more, this is the ultimate non-stop party! Amidst a back-drop of world class lighting and effects, K-Pop Forever! takes audiences on a journey that they will never forget. With breathtaking choreography, plus songs inspired by the record breaking film K-Pop Demon Hunters, this production is one not to be missed. K-Pop is taking over the world and this is your chance to experience it, live and in person.

As Take That celebrate over 30 years as the UK's number one boy band, The Take That Experience mark over a decade together as their most popular and recognised tribute act. With acclaimed vocal performances, stunning replica costumes and iconic dance routines, The Take That Experience recreate the magic of Take That live on stage with their ‘Greatest Hits Tour’. This incredible show features hit after hit from Take That’s career spanning three decades - from classic 90s hits through to their most recent triumphs. Songs include Pray, Relight My Fire, Patience, Shine, These Days, Rule The World and Amore. This show is a must for any Take That fan as the boys don’t just give you a night you’ll Never Forget… they give you The Take That Experience!

Fresh from a sell-out UK tour, the Edinburgh Fringe-favourite Murder, She Didn’t Write is back. This improvised whodunnit will see improv legends Degrees of Error perform an entirely improvised Agatha Christie-inspired murder mystery every afternoon, as the spectator becomes the author in this cleverly comedic show.

They will tell you that legal and illegal are the same as right and wrong. And Ive told you that you only have to sit still for a moment and watch the pieces move to see what a lie that is. Written by former Birmingham Poet Laureate Casey Bailey (GrimeBoy, Birmingham Rep) and directed by award-winning theatre maker, Gail Babb (Stars, Tamasha OFFIES Best New Play 2024). An extension of Caseys poetry collection of the same name, Please Do Not Touch follows the story of Mason, an activist who explores historic houses on TikTok to uncover the true stories behind the objects that lie within. After an incident with a Somali Afro comb, he is wrongly imprisoned in a Young Offender Institution. Can he find a way to survive this ordeal and navigate how to keep speaking up when everything is designed to silence him? This show asks important questions about colonial legacy, contested heritage and how stories are told, whilst shining a light on the criminal justice system. Please Do Not Touch has a heart and a brain, it is thoughtfully written, sensitively performed and beautifully staged. - British Theatre Guide One of Birminghams best and brightest voices.Vanessa Kisuule Baileys gift for the written - and spoken - word is evident throughout the play, and the moments when poetry comes to the foreground align with moments of freedom, joy and power in Masons story. - Warwickshire Whats On Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, for making this project possible.

And Finally…Phil Collins are credited as being the UK’s Top Phil Collins Tribute, fronted by singer Chris O'Connell who brings to the stage the charisma and characteristics of the man who fronted Genesis and has sold 150 million albums in his solo career. This production delivers a two hour high energy show packed full of Phil’s solo hits including ‘In The Air Tonight’, ‘Another Day In Paradise’ and ‘Sussudio’ along with a sprinkling of Genesis hits for good measure. Featuring some of the country's top touring musicians, two drums kits and the esteemed ’And Finally Horns'. This is a great opportunity to come and celebrate with us the illustrious career of the one and only Phil Collins.

A One-Day Celebration of Music and Creativity! Step into the spotlight at the Mercury Theatre for a joyful and inspiring event that brings children together for the very first time — all on the day — to share their musical talents on a professional stage. This special occasion showcases the power of music to unite, uplift, and inspire. With no prior rehearsals as a full group, the children will come together on the day to rehearse and perform, creating a truly memorable experience for everyone involved. Adding to the excitement, a live band made up of talented Sixth Form students will provide the musical backdrop, bringing energy and professionalism to the stage. This event is supported by grant funding from the Department for Education (DfE) through Arts Council England, supporting inclusive access to high-quality music education and cultural experiences for children and young people. Join us for a heart-warming celebration of young voices, shared experiences, and the magic of live performance — all created in just one day!.

Cloudbusting - The Music Of Kate Bush comes to Colchester as part of its 2026 tour! 'Utterly, surreally brilliant' - Mick Wall, Classic Rock Magazine Cloudbusting is thrilled to bring the music of Kate Bush to venues across the UK and Europe in a new 2026 tour. Featuring material from across Kate Bush's hugely successful catalogue of albums, the show includes classic hits such as Wuthering Heights, Babooshka and Hounds of Love, as well as Running Up That Hill - the worldwide No.1 hit single that took the charts by storm 37 years after its first release! All delivered with breath-taking vocals from Mandy Watson and superb musicianship from the live band. 'That gave me a shiver' - Jeremy Vine, BBC Radio 2 Cloudbusting is the longest-running and most universally celebrated tribute to the music of Kate Bush. With TV appearances and live performances across both the UK and Europe, the band has earned an enviable reputation for being unquestionably the most accurate and authentic live experience for Kate fans. Significantly, they are the only band in the world to have performed Kate's music with her original bass player and long-standing sound engineer Del Palmer, as well as drummer and percussionist Preston Heyman, who appeared on the Tour Of Life, Never For Ever and The Dreaming. The band has also performed with Stewart Avon-Arnold, Kate's co-choreographer and dance partner, who appeared with her in so many of those iconic videos and performances throughout her career. That's quite an endorsement for Cloudbusting, but it also stands as a reflection of the talent, tenacity and passion that the 5-piece band has for Kate's captivating music.

In a global pandemic caused by infected meat, two boys find they're much less alone than they thought. All Of Them, Dead is a play about being young, gay and working-class in the middle of nowhere. It's about the things that go unsaid, it's about two boys holding hands, it's about clinging together as the world changes around you. And it's about meat falling from the sky (no, really). Perfect for fans of Heartstopper and The Day Of The Triffids, All Of Them, Dead is a sharp, funny and touching queer love story for the end of the world. Content to Consider This show contains strong language, gore, references to homophobic abuse, violence and death. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Your new favourite musical is out for delivery… Have you ever found yourself watching your favourite movie, wishing it had more songs and more women? Well, you're in luck. This all-fem dream-team are bringing you just what you ordered. Select your favourite film, and watch us turn it into a musical. Package may contain: a sparkling new improvised musical comedy, from the cast of the critically acclaimed and award-winning Notflix. Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 14+. The show may contain strong language and some voluntary audience interaction. Group Bookings Booking for a group? Enjoy £2 off when you buy 4 or more tickets at the same time! Studio Event Please note that this performance takes place in our smaller Studio Theatre. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

noun: flashbang a grenade that produces a bright flash and a loud noise so as to stun or disorient people without causing serious injury; a stun grenade. Ryan and his gang were going to be mates forever. Living their lives in the same cycle as everyone else in a little town, 20 miles from anywhere important. Living for the next night out. Living for the weekend. Getting into and out of trouble. Work. Pub. Sleep. Repeat. Ryan and his gang have seen it all, done it all, lived it all. The nights they wished they could remember and the mornings after they'd rather forget. Ryan and his gang were going to be mates forever - but then came the night when everything changed. Flashbang is a critically acclaimed, award-nominated rollercoaster ride through the ties that bind five best mates and what happens to those friends when that world is blown apart. Embarking for the first time on a UK tour, Flashbang is written by James Lewis and directed by David Brady and brought to you by the award-winning team at Proforca Theatre Company in Association with Greenwich Theatre. Off West End Nominations (Best Performance Ensemble & Best Sound Design, 2024). If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Hasbian by Beth Watson A new coming-of-age comedy about growing up queer in Brighton during Section 28, set to a soundtrack of y2k pop classics and indie angst anthems. How did Beth go from a childhood dreaming of The Wizard of Oz, to cringey Cruel Intentions-obsessed adolescence? From proudly identifying as a teenage lesbian, to discovering that boys are also appealing? Beth's real teenage diary is brought to life in vivid hilarity in Hasbian: a "simultaneously relatable and educational… unique insight on growing up queer in the 90s" (★★★★★ - A Young-ish Perspective). Original animations, inspired by teen magazines, feature an all-star '00s fantasy cast (in cut-out form), as Beth's BFFs and first crushes are re-imagined as "played by" the likes of Lindsay Lohan, Natasha Lyonne and Ashton Kutcher. Dripping in equal measures with heartfelt earnestness, sharp irony, and humour that bubbles up in the place between youthful confidence and pubescent self-doubt, Hasbian delves behind the rollercoaster of teenage life, into the reality of growing up queer in Brighton (the UK's Gay Capital) under Section 28 (1988-2003 law, prohibiting teaching "homosexuality as a pretended family relationship"). Set to a soundtrack of y2k pop classics (BWitched, Destiny's Child, S Club 7), and indie angst anthems (Placebo, Weezer, Garbage), Hasbian fills audiences with buzzy nostalgia, while exposing prejudice in the most liberal of cities. From the creators of Queer Diary - the night where LGBTQIA+ adults read their real teenage diaries on stage.

Stroud Theatre Company Present Macbeth Alone A scintillating new version of one of Shakespeare's bloodiest plays. Macbeth Alone is a thrilling and visceral reimagining of Shakespeare's most haunting tragedy — performed by one man alone. Set within one single cell, this is a claustrophobic descent into the fractured mind of a man determined to wear the crown forever. From the thunder of the battlefield to the silence of a sleepless night, from prophecy to paranoia, Macbeth Alone draws audiences into the psychological storm of a doomed king. Chris Garner (Coronation Street, War Horse) portrays every character. every betrayal every daggered vision — summoned in real time through the voice, body, and unravelling soul of one performer. Stripped of ensemble, staging, and spectacle, what remains is raw: one man, one voice, and the ghosts that will not let him rest. This is Shakespeare, distilled to its darkest essence — a fever dream of power, guilt, and fate. Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 12+. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Rave On - The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience returns with a brand-new show! Back for another year and jam- packed with more classic hits than ever before. Enjoy note perfect renditions of the most loved sounds from the decades that gifted us Rock and Roll. From the emergence of Rock and Roll at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee to the British Invasion and beyond, Rave On is a thrilling tour through music's most revolutionary decades. Join us for an exhilarating evening of toe-tapping, sing-along iconic classics, vibrant vintage costumes, colourful staging and dancing in the aisles! Rave On includes hits from the likes of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, Connie Francis, Little Richard, Roy Orbison, Lulu, The Beach Boys and many more. Take a step back in time and experience the history of rock and roll music like never before. Performed by an incredibly talented, era-obsessed group of young musicians, this brand-new show features leading performers from West End productions including The Buddy Holly Story, Million Dollar Quartet and Dreamboats & Petticoats. Transporting you back to the fabulous 50s and swinging 60s in stunningly authentic style, Rave On promises to be a musical experience like no other. Video Content to Consider This show is suitable for all ages and contains the use of haze.

Fans of The Beatles prepare to be wowed by the world's favourite Liverpool-born tribute to the Fab Four - with an all-new show for 2026. The Mersey Beatles have been rocking sold-out shows around the globe since 1999 with their truly authentic and widely acclaimed celebration of John, Paul, George and Ringo. The band - who clocked up more than 600 appearances in a 10-year residency at Liverpool's legendary Cavern Club - brilliantly exude the inner and outer spirit of the original Fab Four. From the costumes, instruments, cheeky Scouse wit and, of course, that brilliant era-defining Mersey sound, The Mersey Beatles stunning live stage show is a gloriously presented hit-packed celebration of the music that changed the world. Throughout two unforgettable hours, they take the audience on a fabulous ride through the 'mop top' hits of Beatlemania, the psychedelic creativity of Sgt Pepper to the melodic wonder and energy of the Fab Four's later work. New for 2026 - The Mersey Beatles celebrate the 60th anniversary of the ground-breaking Revolver album and the hits of 1966. So, roll up, roll up for this very special 'Magical History Tour' - a splendid time is guaranteed for all! Content to Consider This show is suitable for all ages but under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

A roaring, soaring musical for brave little dragons everywhere! 'I'm not braggin' but I'm a dragon' Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's classic, feel-good story is brought to roaring, soaring life in this delightful musical for children. Zog is the keenest dragon in Madam Dragon's school. He's also the most accident-prone, flying into trees and even setting his own wing alight. Thankfully, a kind girl comes along to patch up his scratches and scrapes - but can she help him with his biggest challenge yet, so that he can finally win a golden star? This charming smash-hit show, from the producers of Stick Man and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features joyful songs by Joe Stilgoe and beautiful puppets by Little Angel.

Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit is now on its first ever UK tour. Welcome to The Choir Of Man, the best pub in the world… come ready to drink in the excitement! Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry, to name but a few, this is a pub like no other! A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers, this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all… live! An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome, don't miss this feel-good night of foot-stomping entertainment, so good you'll want to come back and see it again and again. Facebook: @thechoirofman Twitter & Instagram: @choirofman thechoirofmanukietour.com Accessibility: There will be a BSL interpreted performance on Thu 6 Aug, 7.30pm. Age guidance 10+. Please be aware that this performance contains alcohol consumption, some adult themes, flashing lights and use of haze. The touring production will include an interval (unlike the West End show), with a running time of approx 2 hours 5 (including the interval).

The Greatest Hits of Motown - How Sweet It Is This stunning 100% live show combines first class music with the slickest choreography and an amazing band, to deliver truly outstanding performances for the best Motown experience you will ever have! This show will have you Dancing On The Ceiling, with songs from legendary artistes such as Lionel Richie, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Jackson Five, The Isley Brothers, Edwin Starr and many, many more. The ULTIMATE celebration of the sweet sound of Motown - Let's Get Ready… to Go Loco, Down in Acapulco! Content to Consider The age guidance for this show is 16+. This show contains the use of haze and some flashing lights.

Hailing from the USA, Tameka Jackson is the most authentic tribute to Diana Ross, which has made her the official number 1 and most sought-after tribute, worldwide. Her distinctive style sets her apart from others. Tameka has performed to sell-out crowds in some of the most prestigious and well-known theatres across the UK and abroad, which includes several sold-out performances in London’s West End. A few years ago, Tameka was asked to star in the touring theatre show In The Name of Love – The Diana Ross Story! With her incomparable vocal similarity and looks, Tameka delivers an unforgettable performance with her heartfelt homage to the diva herself. Join her alongside her renowned live band (lead by Wendy Richardson) as they take you on a journey through some of the timeless classics and favourites of The Supremes and solo career of the legendary singer! During this concert experience, Tameka will perform: Ain’t No Mountain, I’m Coming Out, Baby Love, Where Did Our Love Go, Stop In The Name of Love, Reflections, and many more favourites. Adding to the evening’s excitement, Tameka’s dear friend – the legendary Roy Carter from the ’70s hit sensation, HEATWAVE – brings his dynamic presence to the stage as he opens the evening singing the classics such as Boogie Nights, Always & Forever and The Groove Line. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Diana’s magic, this show promises an exhilarating concert experience.