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.

Join me on my Diamond Jubilee lap of honour as I celebrate 60 Glorious Years of fun, laughter and low level disruption! Marvel! As I offer new insights into the hot topics of the day such as the demise of the SCART lead, The Culture Wars, the differences between crab sticks and rhubarb and the origins of Tiramisu! Guffaw with delight! As I delve into my back catalogue using my patented ‘Old Bit Randomiser’ for old favourites like ‘Interspecies Tennis’, ‘The time I went up in the Space Shuttle' and ‘When Nan got her hair caught in the knitting’! Cough Awkwardly! As Gary, (my son from my first marriage) attempts to take over the business again. Tap your Feet! As Stouffer The Cat spits a little Steflon Don! Watch in Wonder! At the return of The Badger Parade with guest appearances from The Knitted Character and Abu Hamster. Plus one lucky audience member will get to join me in a double act! So get on board the laughter train!

The Leopard in My House is proof that this leftie, working-class, Radio 4 favourite truly deserves his place in the UK comedy pantheon. 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. 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.

Join Bing and his friends Sula, Pando, Coco, Amma and of course Flop as they get ready to celebrate his special day in the brand-new live stage show, Bing's Birthday! It’s Bing’s birthday and everyone is very excited! Things won't always go to plan but, with the guidance of Flop and his friends, Bing has a birthday he won't ever forget. And you’re all invited too! Come along, dress up and have fun with lots of songs and joining in as we all celebrate Bing's Birthday in the theatre!

Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. These pirates SO love underpants! Join our swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest! Dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob upon the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across Three Pants Ridge. Filled with music, puppetry and glittering pants of gold, arrr you ready to set sail for a family adventure? Pirates Love Underpants is suitable for children aged 1+.

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.

Meet the cast of our 80’s Divas and join us on an unforgettable journey as this amazing production delivers a dazzling fusion of nostalgia, empowerment and a celebration of the extraordinary .Get ready to dance, sing and be captivated by the powerhouse vocals of the queens who redefine the stage and bring the spirit of the 80’sroaring back to life. The show features an incredible full live band and the music of Kylie, Madonna, Whitney, Bananarama , Queen & Abba.

The Juggle is a brand new tour from confessional multi-award winning comedian Suzi Ruffell. It’s hard to be good all the time. A good mother, a good daughter, a good partner, a good friend, a good person. To be ambitious but not ruthless; a success but not a sell-out. A gentle parent but not a pushover. To be smashing life and make it look easy. The juggle. Suzi is exhausted and she hasn’t even started. This is a stand-up show and a support group! Suzi has appeared on Live at the Apollo, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Last Leg and QI. Suzi co-hosts smash-hit podcasts Big Kick Energy with Maisie Adam and Like Minded Friends with Tom Allen, as well as having her own podcast, OUT with Suzi Ruffell. She even finds time to host on Virgin Radio. Suzi’s debut book, Am I Having Fun Now? is released in June 2025.

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?

Come and join Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor as they recreate the match that gripped a nation – the 1985 World Snooker Final. A record-breaking 18.5m TV viewers stayed up to watch the legendary match and this is your chance to see the rematch with snooker royalty as we recreate the final frame from that special night. Snooker legend John Virgo is your host and referee for an evening guaranteed to include his famed, hilarious snooker impressions. A night not to be missed, there will also be a Q&A, providing you with the opportunity to pose the questions you always wanted to ask!

Fresh off the stage in London's West End, The Dazzling Diamonds proudly present their smash-hit comedy variety drag show. This isn't just any show - these "ladies" deliver a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud spectacle like no other. Featuring a cast of three internationally acclaimed performers, the show is a dazzling mix of outrageous comedy, sensational live vocals and jaw-dropping dance routines. Expect iconic hits from Tina Turner, Adele, Lady Gaga, Elton John, and many more - though not quite like you've seen them before! Heading out on the road for their third and biggest tour to date, The Dazzling Diamonds are bringing an all-new show packed with hilarious new routines, alongside some of the fan favourites that audiences have come to know and love. They've been wowing audiences everywhere, leaving them with aching jaws, tears of laughter, and standing ovations night after night. Don't miss your chance to see why audiences are calling this "the funniest night on the road." So, grab your gang, dust off the sequins, and get ready for an evening of glitz, glamour, and non-stop entertainment. The Dazzling Diamonds are here to shine - and trust us, you won't want to miss a moment!.

A delightful dragontastic show for pop princesses and naughty knights. Full House Theatre's new family show is about to explode into a theatre near you bringing this bestselling picture book to life on stage. The whole family will enjoy laugh-out-loud comedy, cool puppets, sing along pop anthems and a dazzling larger-than-life dragon. Feisty Sue is not your everyday fairy tale superstar, in fact she's The Worst Princess. After being rescued by her twit of a prince she's ready to start her happy end. But first she'll have to make friends with a dragon, escape from a tower and set the Prince's pants on fire with her new fire-breathing bestie. Will Sue find her happily ever after?.

What happens when Britain's sharpest political impressionist steps out from behind the masks? For four decades, Rory Bremner has been the voice of our times - quite literally. Now, in this intimate new show, the master mimic & satirist combines his signature stand-up with candid conversation, accompanied by a rotating cast of special guest hosts. Expect a virtuoso display of vocal mimicry, razor-sharp political commentary, and revealing insights from the man who's made a career of being other people. From his satire series' Bremner, Bird & Fortune, and appearances on Mock the Week, to translating opera and playing Chris Tarrant in James Graham's Quiz, Rory's chameleonic career defies categorization. Don't miss this rare chance to see Britain's foremost impressionist blend stand up comedy and conversation in an evening of acute observations, pitch-perfect impressions, and surprising revelations.

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. The Fri 2 May line-up is to be confirmed. Stay tuned for updates! Please note: Line-up subject to change.

80s Liverpool. Chrissie, Loggo, George, Dixie and Yosser are used to hard work and providing for their families. But there is no work and there is no money. What are they supposed to do? Work harder, work longer, buy cheaper, spend less? They just need a chance. Life is tough but the lads can play the game. Find jobs, avoid the ‘sniffers' and see if you can have a laugh along the way.

A laugh-out-loud slapstick whodunnit featuring four actors, a dozen characters and a whole load of chaos. When a priceless painting goes missing at a private auction, Detective Stuart Pidcock is called upon to uncover the mystery. However, when he cannot solve it himself he is forced to enlist the help of an old nemesis. Together, the pair must interrogate the many characterful suspects that reside at the manor, in order to catch the conniving culprit and solve the crime of the century!

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!

The Signatures are the UK's leading Northern Soul Band. The band put their own expression to many classic Northern Soul numbers creating a true balance between authentic and modern in sound. The Signatures give a full set of passion and energy guaranteeing to get the audience out on the floor.

Magic of Motown 20th Anniversary Tour 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.

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. This is the true story of ‘Fair Cop’ Alfie’s big plan to transition from the BBC radio waves to TV star. Could it be done? Or had Father Time decided that his time had passed?

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! Content is subject to change. Over-18s advised

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!

A brand new magic show is coming to Yarm!  The most exciting, brand new, enigmatic magic show from the magician most infamous for jamming the BBC switchboard after he correctly predicted the lottery. Internationally acclaimed star of The Greatest Magician, James Phelan, returns from his unprecedented, complete sell out, 300 date theatre tour with a brand new show. “A polished showman and raconteur. This dazzling, five star rated magic show will leave you aching with laughter and dizzy in disbelief. Unlike anything you've seen before. Don't miss it. When booking your seats - please do not leave any empty single seats between your booking and the others on the system, as we can't sell single seats. Accessibility for shows - All wheelchair access must be booked through the box office (can’t be booked online).  - This allocation is Stalls Right Row AA, if any are available at the time of booking. Early booking is advisable for all shows.  - Allocation is for the wheelchair user and one other person in this row. If your party is larger than two, then you will be required to purchase tickets elsewhere in the auditorium or as close as we can.  - The team at the box office will work with anyone on an individual basis for limited mobility seating as everyone’s needs vary, just give us a call and we can help.

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

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

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!

La Bouche Manouche featuring Irene Serra present an evening of much-loved gypsy jazz tunes and foot-tapping swing numbers from the Great American songbook, all in their inimitable Manouche style! For this performance, they will be showcasing music from their newly released second album, "Got A Little Rhythm!" and playing a set of their most popular repertoire that has seen them amass over 5 million views on YouTube. From Django Reinhardt originals to Billie Holiday classics, favourite swing tunes, French chansons and tangos, this show is an unmissable evening of gypsy jazz celebration. Featuring critically-acclaimed Irene Serra on vocals, La Bouche Manouche is a vintage jazz quintet influenced by the chic era of the Jazz Age. Their creative repertoire is rooted in the sound of the Parisian Hot Club, featuring Django Reinhardt originals, gypsy tunes and Edith Piaf classics as well as French Chansons, Latin flavours and songs from the Great American Songbook. With Andy Ruiz-Palma on lead guitar, Nathan Mansfield on violin/trumpet, Amy Baldwin on double bass and Sol Grimshaw on rhythm guitar, La Bouche Manouche is made up of highly experienced, in-demand performers who have played in many prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican Centre, the Southbank Centre, the Royal Festival Hall and Ronnie Scotts. Catch this highly anticipated performance from one of the UK's top gypsy jazz bands!.

Summer Special: Comedy Extravaganza - Four TV Comedians, One Spectacular Night! Get ready for non-stop laughs with The Official Comedy Club, the trusted name in comedy for 29 years. Enjoy 4 incredible TV comedians, each delivering their own unique style and side-splitting humour. From sharp wit to hilarious storytelling, this ultimate comedy variety show has something for everyone. Don't settle for just one comedian—experience four stars in one unforgettable night of laughter! Book now and make your summer shine! Kazeem Jamal As seen on Comedy Central Live.

Get ready, Colchester! On Friday 15th August 2025, 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.

rePunK'd is a high-energy tribute that brings the unfiltered power of classic punk and the daring innovation of new wave back to life. Relive the mid-70s to early 80s through their explosive, authentic sound that captivates audiences of all ages. Get ready for an electrifying setlist featuring hits by The Clash, The Sex Pistols, The Boomtown Rats, Blondie, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and more! rePunK'd channels the unapologetic attitude and raw energy that defined a generation. From iconic punk anthems like 'Pretty Vacant' by The Sex Pistols, 'London Calling' by The Clash, and 'No More Heroes' by The Stranglers to the iconic new wave hits like Blondie's 'Hanging on the Telephone' and Elvis Costello's 'Pump It Up', rePunK'd revives the music that defied norms and inspired a movement. Experience a nostalgic journey for those who lived it, a time-machine for those who wish they had, and an epic introduction for the next generation. With every performance, rePunK'd celebrates the timeless legacy of punk and new wave music that continues to resonate worldwide.

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.

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!

The UK's Premier Tribute to Global Phenomenon… 'Ms Rachel'! Bringing 'Ms Rachels' 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 & 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.

Award-winning Colchester Operatic Society Second Edition (CO2) return to the Mercury theatre with this whimsical and family friendly musical. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, based on Roald Dahl's classic novel, features an original score by Marc Shaiman, with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman, and a book by David Greig. It also includes iconic songs from the 1971 film, such as "Candy Man" and "Pure Imagination". Willy Wonka invites five lucky golden ticket winners, including young Charlie Bucket, into his secretive factory. There, they discover a world beyond their own imagination, with Oompa-Loompas, nutty squirrels, unbelievable sweets and of course plenty of chocolate. Get your own golden ticket to this sweet treat of a musical and come on a journey with CO2 into Willy Wonka's magical world. Accessible performances There will be a captioned performance of Sun 21 Sep, 12pm.

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 There will be a captioned performance of Sun 8 Feb, 3pm.

Lost Atoms tells the story of a relationship: an extraordinary, transformative love. Or is that only in hindsight? Perhaps it was just typical? Or toxic? Or doomed from the start? One thing’s for sure: It changed their lives. Two people plunge deep into their shared pasts and propel themselves into multiple imagined futures. At times hilarious, at times devastating, Lost Atoms explores how memory impacts the way we look at love, and asks what makes a truly “successful” relationship? Following sellout tours of Othello and Metamorphosis Frantic Assembly returns with a brand-new play for its 30th Anniversary year, written by Anna Jordan (Succession, Killing Eve, The Unreturning, Yen).

A Mercury Production Love and chaos collide in Noël Coward's timeless comedy Private Lives, directed by 2024 RTST Sir Peter Hall Director Award-winner Tanuja Amarasuriya. Amanda and Elyot are charming, rich, utterly reckless - and divorced. When they meet unexpectedly on the first night of their honeymoons with new partners, in the balmy moonlight of the French Riviera, old flames re-ignite, and impulsive love takes hold. But they divorced for a reason, and their fiery romance soon spirals into a chaotic riot of passionate desire, slanging matches and outrageous battles. Set against a backdrop of 1930s glamour, Noël Coward's Private Lives is a sparkling comedy of manners - hilarious, stylish, and a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with razor-sharp wit, sizzling chemistry, and timeless sophistication. Content to Consider This show is 14+, and contains physical violence, depictions of alcohol consumption and smoking and scenes of emotional conflict.

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.

Splat! is a family-friendly physical comedy about art and creativity for ages 3-6. Set in an artists studio the show follows two aspiring artists one dedicated and serious the other erratic and messy. The two characters attempt to complete their masterpieces whilst antagonising each other in the process. They take a journey through the history of visual art, experiencing the techniques of the great masters and movements before eventually realising that to achieve anything they must embrace their opposites and work together. The show explores themes of collaboration, play, dedication, spontaneity and letting go. The show features no language and is accessible for deaf audiences. Video 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.

Award-winning British garden designer and BBC Gardeners’ World presenter, Adam Frost, is leaving the garden and heading back out on tour! In his most personal show to date, Adam will discuss the plants that have shaped his life and reflect on what’s brought him to where he is now. He’ll unearth the inspiration he’s found through a life in the garden, the people he’s met along the way, the music that’s steered his course and why he identifies as an ‘old romantic fool’. Adam will share previously untold stories of how his passion for plants has taken him around the world and challenged him with unexpected experiences – from curating a garden in Japan during a monsoon to meeting heroes. Closer to home, gardening is fundamental to Adam’s sense of family, wellbeing and recovery. In September 2021, he found himself grappling with the mental scars of the pandemic and facing a momentous house (or more importantly, garden) move. He’ll talk about navigating that change and reconnecting with nature. Adam will also explore the creative act of putting a garden together and how he’s had to learn to embrace his artistic side. Don’t miss your chance to hear Adam’s amusing anecdotes and poignant reflections, and to immerse yourself not just in gardening, but in human nature itself and the madness of it all.

Step into the unparalleled world of Taylor Swift in this ENCHANTED show featuring the incredible: Xenna as Taylor. A celebration of the iconic pop sensation's music, style, and unrivalled stage presence. Xenna embodies every essence of Taylor Swift, capturing her voice, signature looks, and magnetic charisma. Audiences will be transported through Taylor's world as they sing along to timeless classics from "Love Story," "Blank Space," and "Shake It Off," to Fortnight. With dancers and replica costumes, showcasing Swift's distinctive looks. Now featuring The Tortured Poets Department, this is an unforgettable Eras Tour experience for fans of all ages. Whether you're a die-hard Swiftie or simply love great music, this is the ultimate homage to one of the biggest stars in the world. Get ready to relive Taylor Swift's greatest hits in a show that's as close to the real thing as it gets!

Are you ready for a brand new adventure with Dinosaur Adventure Live?! When a satellite tasked with controlling the island's weather systems malfunctions, chaos erupts. The island's tropical climate spirals leading to one big Jurassic Storm. If not stopped, it will erase all existence of the island… forever! The mission: find the code hidden deep within the island, reboot the satellite and save the Dinosaurs before it's too late. The adventure of a lifetime awaits… bring the family on a T-Rex-iffc journey with our brand new dinosaurs, meet their roar-some babies and help the rangers save the Island.

Laurie Lee's extraordinary story, told in a captivating weave of music and his own words. Following sell-out five star performances at The RSC and Oxford, Red Sky at Sunrise follows Laurie Lee through his much-loved Cider with Rosie trilogy - Cider with Rosie, As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning and A Moment of War, when he famously walked out of the Slad valley one summer morning, and ended up fighting with the International Brigades against Franco's forces in the Spanish Civil War. Anton Lesser (Game of Thrones, Andor Wolf Hall, Endeavour) and Charlie Hamblett (Netflix's Missing You, Killing Eve, Ghosts) play the role of Laurie Lee older and younger, along with a rich array of other characters. Together, they celebrate Lee's engaging humour, as well as his darker side, in a performance that has startling resonance with modern events. A 'breathtaking' musical programme by Orchestra of the Swan weaves around Lee's writing, from the lush Gloucestershire countryside made famous in Cider With Rosie, to the arid landscapes of Spain. Featuring music from Vaughan Williams, Britten, Turina and de Falla, with guitarist Mark Ashford performing Albéniz and Spanish Romance.

Based on the original version by Charles Perrault, the Let's All Dance Ballet Company brings a new version of Puss in Boots about a friendship between a magical cat and a young man with a talent for music. With Puss' help, the man finds the confidence to use his talent and to be himself, winning the heart of the Princess, her mother the Queen, and the rather snooty Marquis de Carabas. Treat your children to the magic of live, professional dance and fire their imaginations with this lovely new show for the whole family! Suitable for all, especially 2-14 year olds, including those with special needs.

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

ANY DREAM WILL DO’s Keith Jack and stars of JOSEPH sing the biggest musical hits of a generation. Dreamcoat Stars is back for their 3rd UK tour. Bringing incredible live musical entertainment to the nation! Experience the UK's biggest and best night of musical smash-hits in this star-studded concert Starring Any Dream Will Do’s Keith Jack; TV star and UK tour Joseph Sam Cassidy; West End’s leading man Graham Tudor; and introducing our first Pharaoh Andrew Geater. With new songs and arrangements of everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway classics, Les Misérables, We Will Rock You, Dirty Dancing, Hairspray, West Side Story, and the toe-tapping 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. A hand-picked selection of non-stop hits with phenomenal vocal arrangements, incredible four-part harmonies, slick choreography, and memorable stories from the star's time in Joseph. Grab your coat of many colours and join us on your Dreamcoat journey where Any Dream Will Do. This is a show that will raise your spirits in a night of theatre you’ll never forget. Go Go Go get your tickets now!

“The White Star Line merged itself out of existence. Those clever little educated boys. ” A one-man theatre show based on the life of Titanic survivor, Edward Dorking. Edward was gay. Openly gay, and on Wednesday, April 10th, 1912, he set sail for NYC on a ticket bought for him by his parents in the hope his American family could put him 'right' THIRD CLASS charts Edward's journey from boarding the Titanic to swimming for 30 minutes towards an already full collapsible lifeboat and how he, upon arriving in New York, would tour the Vaudeville circuit, recreating the stories for a fact-hungry public. But Edward didn't want fame; he wanted revenge. When everyone was talking about the deaths of millionaires and society figures, few were discussing the people who took the lion's share of the losses that night: the third class. Edward was coming for the upper classes. Using music, movement, projection, and historical facts, THIRD CLASS tells the story of an unknown hero from a well-known story.

Ranked in the Top 5 best reviewed comedy shows at Edinburgh Fringe 2024, Silly Little Things is a hilarious, moving and physically extraordinary new show by the industry-leading mime Trygve Wakenshaw. Silly Little Things is at once subversive and sublime - a masterclass of mime from the man who paved the way for so many contemporary clowns. In this new show, Trygve builds an experimental playground and lets his imagination run riot. Spinning ridiculous scenes out of the smallest funny ideas and conjuring up slapstick magic, Silly Little Things is a space of wonder and joy. It's about friendship and magic and what more could we want really? WINNER - Fred Award, New Zealand Comedy Festival 2024 WINNER - Seoul Arts Award 2024 WINNER - Best Comedy, New Zealand International Comedy Festival 2024 WINNER - Best Performer, Com:media Festival, Alytus, Lithuania 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.

"I can hear someone out there. They're singing to me." Whale sings his heart out into the ocean blue. But nobody will join his song. Just as he feels like he will forever be alone, a quiet, beautiful voice reaches him through the noise of the sea. Whale sets off on a journey into deep coral caves, through glittering jellyfish blooms and past wild-eyed sea monsters, determined to find another who can hear his song. Join Hoglets Theatre on a magical journey of singing whales who are finding out that being different can be difficult, but it can also be beautiful. A deep-sea adventure with a beautiful message of empathy, friendship and neuro-diversity overcoming adversity. The Tale of the Loneliest Whale features beautiful handmade puppets, original songs and music and immersive, sensory experiences. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

From the producers of the hit musical Forever In Blue Jeans present The Carpenters - Voice Of The Heart It is just over 30 years since the legendary Karen Carpenter passed away and left behind an amazing catalogue of hit songs and golden memories that are still played on radio stations across the UK. This stunning show celebrates the music of The Carpenters, and the evening is guaranteed to lead everyone through a magical memory. Expect all the hits that every Carpenters fan adores, like Yesterday Once More, Goodbye To Love, Close To You and Only Yesterday, mixed with great medleys put together from their many album tracks and songs that link together from The Beatles - Mr Postman, Ticket To Ride and Help, a superb Bacharach and David medley featuring renditions of Do You Know The Way To San Jose and Always Something There To Remind Me and a Carpenters country medley with Top Of The World, Sweet Sweet Smile and Jambalaya. With superb vocals from Carole Gordon and outstanding talent from the brilliant Blue Jeans Band & Singers it will be a "sparkling" night to remember.

Our café bar offers a warm, friendly welcome to everyone. Come and enjoy a freshly made afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones and cakes or a traditional cream tea of scones with jam and cream. We serve a great range of hot drinks (including speciality teas) and we cater for gluten free and vegan diets too. Afternoon and cream teas must be booked in advance.

Prepare to embark on an emotional journey that will stir your heart and elevate your spirit. This transformative theatre performance delves deeply into the themes of hope, surrender, and resilience - all through the eyes of a woman confronting the profound effects of her partner's alcohol misuse. Set against the backdrop of a "Blossome Sunrise Dip" in the invigorating North Sea, the poignant narrative unfolds when the woman joins a group of individuals grappling with similar challenges. This pivotal moment transcends mere storytelling; it serves as a powerful metaphor for healing, connection, and the indomitable human spirit. This play courageously brings to light the often-hidden struggles faced by families affected by substance misuse. It reveals the deep suffering and isolating shame that accompany such experiences, while also challenging the stigma that can prevent access to vital support. By sharing this inspiring story, the audience is invited to step into the shoes of those affected, fostering empathy and understanding, and ultimately encouraging a collective confrontation of these societal barriers. This project is a profound collaboration between Packing Shed Theatre Company and Blossome CIC, merging artistic brilliance with authentic community voices. By including Blossome community members who have lived experience in the script development, the narrative is guaranteed to resonate powerfully with those touched by the hardships of addiction. Blossome is a compassionate self-care community, a non judgemental brave space, for individuals affected by someone else's substance misuse or any addiction. In a trauma-informed environment, people can find understanding and emotional support, while learning and practising self-care and self-compassion together, for their own wellbeing. It is Blossome's mission to help people resource themselves, heal themselves and in doing so, end the generational cycles of addiction in families with self-care and self-compassion. If you are affected by this story, please reach out to Blossome.

Join Dr. Richard Shepherd, the UK's leading forensic pathologist, as he returns to the stage this Autumn with his captivating new tour, Unnatural Causes - Time of Death. Following his successful 2021 and 2022 tours, Dr. Shepherd invites audiences into the world of forensic investigation, where time is crucial in uncovering the truth behind accidents, murders, and unexplained deaths. With over 23,000 autopsies to his name, Dr. Shepherd's career has seen him investigate some of the world's most high-profile cases, from the Hungerford Massacre to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Unnatural Causes - Time of Death offers an insightful look into the vital role time plays in solving mysteries of life and death. This is not just a lecture on forensic science, but a deeply personal account of how a career spent in the darkest corners of humanity has shaped Dr. Shepherd's view on life. Don't miss this unforgettable, deeply moving experience.

Following a smash hit, sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, this ★★★★★ (The Stage) 'astonishingly accomplished' new play kicks off its next journey this autumn. Equal parts hilarious and heart-breaking, Shotgunned is an intimate and relatable piece about how the people we lose shape who we become. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

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.

Dial 1 For UK By Mohit Mathur With Phil Willmott Every night in New Delhi, Uday Kumar (UK) answers panicked calls to the Goldmine Crypto GB Helpline while fantasising about being British himself, filling his YouTube channel with visions of a sophisticated new life of affluence, fish and chips, and tea with the royals. Then, a chance conversation one tea break reveals how he might make it all a reality. At dawn a mere week later, he leaves the call centre forever and boards his first-ever flight to take his place amongst the English. What happens next is the subject of Dial 1 for UK, this hilarious and poignant one-man play about high hopes humbled in Hounslow and an influencer stripped of influence amidst the brutal reality of the UK care sector. The piece asks why, each year, hundreds of young men like UK vanish without trace. This production offers a rare chance to rethink assumptions about those who hope to live amongst us. It's Mohit Mathur's first piece as an exciting new playwright and West End performer, in collaboration with Phil Willmott, one of the UK's most experienced theatre makers.

Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged celebrates Su's 50 years in show business in a one-woman variety show packed with fabulous songs, hilarious stories, and much-loved characters. In a flurry of costumes, props, and live musical accompaniment, Su takes the audience through her career from the earliest days of auditions, through her many acclaimed musical theatre appearances, to her international TV successes. Still Fully Charged shows why Su has become the national treasure she is today, with audiences describing her as "a powerhouse of a woman … just brilliant!", "absolutely hilarious", "fabulous, entertaining and nostalgic", and "A-MA-ZING!".

Eastern Angles Theatre Production and New Wolsey Theatre Co-Production Meet Gail, Hobby and Salty - three Year 11 students about to leave their school days behind them, fighting their anxieties with imagination and theatre. As their final term nears its end, the trio perform a play inspired by the chaotic first days of their idealistic Drama teacher. With only the props of their classroom to hand and just three actors taking on over 20 different roles, Teechers is a tour-de-force of storytelling and the power of live theatre. Written by John Godber in the 1980s, Teechers is a fast-paced comedy with a vital message about the entrenched inequalities of the UK's education system that are still as punchy as ever forty years later.

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! Accessibility: Age guidance 3+. Please be aware 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 dampened), there will be a relaxed performance for this show on Wed 10 Dec at 1.30pm. There will be a Visual Story available nearer the show (please be aware, it will contain spoilers).

Black Cats, Broomsticks and Pentagrams? It sounds like you have a witch problem! But have no fear, the nation's hottest game show The Witching Hour is here to take justice to a whole new level! Survival hinges on one's ability to entertain, spin the best narrative, and sway the crowd's fickle loyalty. As accusations fly, anyone can find themselves in the spotlight, cast as the next villain in a society obsessed with spectacle. The audience cheers, and the cauldron starts to bubble over and moral integrity is sacrificed at the altar of entertainment. (Pitchforks and torches, not included.) Through biting satire and absurd humour, this explores themes of justice, celebrity culture, and the fragility of reputation in a world where being liked can mean the difference between life and death. Will the accused manage to turn their fate around with a well-timed joke or a heart-wrenching tale? Or will they become the next victim of this insatiable hunger for drama?.

"You've never seen Grease? Are you kidding? Ok. So there's this guy and this girl…" In the beginning there were stories. Stories of girls and women and men and Love. So when she meets him, she knows the script and she's ready. But things are starting to go wrong and the stories she's been told don't serve her anymore. She doesn't fit the role. She needs to rewrite her part. So she can be seen. Be brave. Take a breath. There is a Light and a Whistle for Attracting Attention is brought to you by award nominated Play Nicely Theatre (Splinter, The Mechanicals Present…). Their hit 2023 tour of Bruntwood Judge's Prize winner Martha Loader's play Splinter was a Finalist in the Pub Theatre Standing Ovation Awards and awarded an Offcomm.

Truelove Tours presents The Trans Lady Sings! Written and Performed by Alice d'Lumiere Original Composition by Tina Gooding, with additional music by Alice d'Lumiere Contralto? Baritone? No Limits! No Preconceptions! (No Clue)… To gender-fluid spoken word artist Alice d'Lumiere, classical music has always seemed terrifyingly stratified: Soprano, Contralto, Tenor, Bass; is the role you play always ordained by the limits of your vocal physiology? However, in the superficially respectable world of Opera, gender seems temptingly bendy at times… For Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival Alice staged a "Spoken Word Overture". At this evening of new, experimental opera she laid down a challenge to herself in prose and verse; a pledge to try to overcome her deep, childhood inability to sing… Two years, one Arts Council England Developing Your Creative Practice grant, numerous singing lessons with 6 different practitioners, scripting, composing, rehearsing and furiously attempting to relearn how to play to piano later, this self-confessed outsider in gender, and 50+ late-starter in opera, returned to Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival to reveal if she was finally able to hold a note. Trans Lady Sings! is the result of this eccentric endeavour… Themes of vocal identity, gender fluidity, life-long learning and the individual's need for self-expression are humorously explored by a beguiling communicator in a show; combining prose, verse, comedy, a dash of performance art and yes, perhaps this time some actual singing! Contains original music and some possibly foolhardy attempts at the classical repertoire.

Colchester Dance HQ returns for their annual Summer Production. Join them as they present Innovation 2025. Babes in Arms We have a limited number of babes in arms tickets per performance, they are £1.50 with a full paying adult ticket for babies under 2 years old. These are limited to a maximum of 20 babes in arms tickets available per instance due to fire and safety regulations. If you have already booked your tickets and would like to add on a babes in arms ticket, you can do so by calling the Box Office on 01206 573948. Please Note The planned dress rehearsal on Thu 3 Jul will now be an additional performance. Tickets go on sale on Tue 6 May at 10am and customers can buy a maximum of four tickets. The show will include Years 3 upwards to Graduates.

Alex McAleer possesses the uncanny ability to apparently tap into his audiences minds and read their thoughts at will. Having played to packed houses at the Edinburgh Fringe, award nominated sell-out shows in Australia, and extensively touring North America and the United Kingdom as the stand-out star of Champions of Magic, Alex has earned his reputation as a funny, engaging, and charismatic entertainer. In this unforgettable show, Alex performs unbelievable demonstrations of his psychological skills, combining mind-blowing moments with sharp wit, making it interactive, engaging, and laugh out loud funny. Don't miss your chance to see Alex McAleer live! 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.

Hi. My name is Raina. I don't like when people see me naked and then don't talk to me. When Raina arrives at her spoken word gig to see her exes in the audience, all the questions she's had about her past sexual experiences begin to surface. A show about bad sex and the murky parts of consent, expect impromptu burlesque, PowerPoint presentations, Michael Cera cameos, cringe, and desperation. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes heart-breaking, MANIC combines spoken word, DIY puppetry, and TedTalk comedy to ask whether it is possible to say you were violated without implicating a partner. Winner of Best Solo Show at FUSE International 2022 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.

Don't Dilly Dally and book tickets for an afternoon of songs and laughter, as we bring the UK's best Music Hall acts to Colchester for a unique and entertaining show, accompanied by special guests to be announced. Jump onto your "Bicycle Made for Two" and "Let's All Go Down The Strand" to the "Old Bull & Bush" for a fun, nostalgic afternoon that will have you singing along.

Peppa Pig and friends are back with a brand-new 'oinktastic' stage show: Peppa Pig's Big Family 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.

Classic rock anthems, incredible musicians, sensational vocalists and a ROCKTACULAR experience, with a lot of laughs thrown in. All the ingredients that make up the phenomenal, Rock for Heroes! Performed by a superb 7-piece band, the show breathes new life into the music of Guns 'N' Roses, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Dire Straits, Fleetwood Mac, Queen and more! You'd be 'Livin' on a Prayer' if you miss it. It's a show for all the family and a must see for any rock fan, come along and experience an evening that will have you singing till your voice hurts, have you laughing till your sides hurt and ROCKIN' till your feet hurt! So, 'Jump' at your chance to get your tickets today, and let Rock for Heroes take you back to that Summer of '69 and join us for the biggest celebration of the Heroes of Rock! Content to Consider and Accessibility This show contains flashing lights and strobe effects.

I Found My Horn by Jonathan Guy Lews and Jasper Rees A man wakes up in midlife to a broken marriage and the dawning fear that he has done nothing to make himself memorable. Packing away his life as he prepares for divorce, he is struck by an insane idea: why not pick up the French horn that defeated him in his youth? So it is that, after a lay-off of several decades, Jasper Rees seeks adventure and redemption via sixteen feet of treacherous brass tubing. Dusting off the instrument he last played as a gormless teen, he sets himself an impossible task: to perform a Mozart concerto in front of a paying audience of horn fanatics. "Don't do it," says his mentor. "It takes bollocks of Sheffield steel to play the French horn in public!" Damned if he does, Jasper also knows he's damned if he doesn't… Adapted from the bestselling book by Jasper Rees, and directed by Harry Burton, I Found My Horn was premiered in 2008 at the Aldeburgh Festival. Subsequently seen at Chichester Festival Theatre, the Orange Tree in Richmond, Hampstead Theatre, Trafalgar Studios in the West End, the Riverside Studios in Hammersmith and most recently at the Ustinov at Theatre Royal Bath, this joyous, feel-good show places the transformative power of music centre-stage. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Spontaneous musical comedy at its absolute finest - direct from the West End and now returning to Colchester! With fifteen years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a critically acclaimed West End run and an Olivier award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe with their ingenious blend of comedy, musical theatre and spontaneity. A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show as audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into all-singing, all dancing productions with hilarious results. These incredible performers are guaranteed to impress as they create shows packed with drama, dazzling dance routines and catchy melodies - and it's all made up on the spot! So whether you fancy Hamilton in a hospital, Sondheim in the Sahara or Cats at Colchester Castle, you suggest it and The Showstoppers will sing it! Content to Consider and Accessibility This show is a 12+. Due to the improvised nature of the show there may occasionally be strong language and/or adult themes, and haze is used in the show.

Winner of Best New Writing at Fest & Skinny Magazine 2024 Following a sold out Edinburgh Fringe run, Chalk Line, presents The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return. "If this town gave out a collective breath of exhaustion, buildings would shake across the whole of England." Two best mates. One HUGE party. Luton pinned by austerity. An evening of noughties bangers and shots of shitty gin mixed with the chaos of violence. A night to remember! Set over one chaotic night, the play follows two best friends as they chase the highs of youth against a backdrop of systemic neglect. Painting a tapestry of violence and joy, it is a raw, real-time collision of friendship and survival. Told with biting wit and lyrical intensity, this production is a powerful exploration of class and identity, with a cracking house party that pulses round the corner. Content to Consider and Accessibility This is a 16+ and this show contains strong language, descriptions of violence, alcohol use, haze, strobe lighting and use of E-cigarettes. If it's your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the Mercury building, you can find out more about our spaces here.

Starring Anton Lesser, A Beautiful Thread weaves Hardy's life - dramatic as any of his books - with his beautiful poetry and great novels, including Far From the Madding Crowd, Tess of the d'Urbervilles, and Jude the Obscure. Hardy put more music into his work than any other writer, and Orchestra of the Swan's Artistic Director, David Le Page has devised a musical programme of shimmering beauty - a Mellstock folk band style, that combines West Gallery music with Holst, Warlock and contemporary folk. Adapted by Deirdre Shields, Hardy's extraordinary writing shines bright as ever. Anton Lesser and Lucia Bonbright bring a hugely varied cast to dazzling life: from Hardy, his mother, Jemima and his wives, Emma and Florence, to George Bernard Shaw, and Virginia Woolf, along with the immortal characters from his novels. The show also highlights Hardy's humour (often overlooked!), his modernity, the astonishing time-span he lived through, and his global reach, from Hollywood to Japan. Anton Lesser says: 'Words and Music is a kind of unique genre, neither pure reading, nor acting, but with an immediacy that comes from the huge emotional impact the music has upon the words, and vice versa, and the interplay we as actors enjoy with the musicians on-stage.

Stagecoach Colchester returns to the Mercury stage for its biennial showcase performance, highlighting dance, singing and drama pieces from the last two years. 130 current students aged 6-18 years will be taking part in what promises to be a spectacular evening for everybody to enjoy.

Oxford House school proudly present their Summer production Peter Pan JR., returning to the Mercury Theatre! Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travellers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, the fierce Brave Girls, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Featuring the iconic songs, "I'm Flying," "I've Gotta Crow," "I Won't Grow Up" and "Never Never Land," and a rousing book full of magic, warmth and adventure, Peter Pan JR. is the perfect show for the child in all of us… who dreamed of soaring high and never growing up. Based on J.M. Barrie's classic tale and featuring an unforgettable score by Morris "Moose" Charlap and Jule Styne with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh and Betty Comden and Adolph Green, and originally directed, choreographed and adapted by Jerome Robbins.