BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Keep Colchester Cool - ECPv6.18.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Keep Colchester Cool
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Keep Colchester Cool
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/London
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20270328T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20271031T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20280326T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20281029T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260711T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261108T170000
DTSTAMP:20260905T083852Z
CREATED:20260905T083852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T083852Z
UID:132220-1783764000-1794157200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Duncan Grant: Worlds Through Desire: From Drawing to Cruising to DMs
DESCRIPTION:Duncan Grant: Worlds Through Desire brings together artworks\, stories and poetry from different generations to explore the ways LGBT+ people have sought friendship\, community and intimacy across changing times and technologies.\n\nAt the centre of the exhibition are drawings and paintings by Duncan Grant\, including work connected to the period he spent on a Suffolk farm with his then partner David Garnett during the First World War.\n\nMore than 35 drawings and paintings by Grant feature alongside contemporary works\, with the exhibition looking at the different places and technologies through which people have found one another\, from galleries\, bars and public spaces to online games\, social media and dating apps.\n\nWorlds Through Desire runs at Firstsite until Sunday 8 November 2026.\n\nAdmission is free and no booking is required.\n\nFirstsite is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 5pm\, Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 10pm\, and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. It is closed on Mondays.\n\nPlease note that the exhibition contains nudity. Sexually explicit artworks are displayed in a separate enclosed room restricted to visitors aged 18 and over.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/duncan-grant-worlds-through-desire-from-drawing-to-cruising-to-dms/
LOCATION:Firstsite\, Lewis Gardens\, Colchester\, CO1 1JH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ORGANIZER;CN="Firstsite Colchester":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260919T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270117T170000
DTSTAMP:20260905T114354Z
CREATED:20260905T084144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T114354Z
UID:132222-1789812000-1800205200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Simon Carter: From the Landscape
DESCRIPTION:Essex artist Simon Carter transforms Firstsite’s gallery with From the Landscape\, an immersive exhibition inspired by the Essex coast and countryside.\n\nCarter has spent more than 40 years walking\, drawing and painting the landscape around him. The exhibition brings together more than 30 acrylic paintings and drawings made since 2020\, an early watercolour painted when he was 23\, and three new series created especially for Firstsite.\n\nRather than simply hanging works on gallery walls\, From the Landscape uses painted surfaces\, installation and sound to create an environment visitors can move through. A 19-metre wall carries 500 monochrome painted sketches\, while recordings made by Carter during his daily walks bring sounds from the Essex coast into the gallery.\n\nCarter is based in Frinton and is President of Colchester Art Society. He has previously been Artist-in-Residence at both the University of Essex and Firstsite.\n\nFrom the Landscape runs from Saturday 19 September 2026 until Sunday 17 January 2027.\n\nAdmission is free and no booking is required.\n\nFirstsite is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 5pm\, Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 10pm\, and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. It is closed on Mondays.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/simon-carter-from-the-landscape/
LOCATION:Firstsite\, Lewis Gardens\, Colchester\, CO1 1JH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ORGANIZER;CN="Firstsite Colchester":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261001T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261031T173000
DTSTAMP:20260917T152705Z
CREATED:20260910T162637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T152705Z
UID:132690-1790845200-1793467800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:New Face for Leprosy Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:This October\, the New Face for Leprosy exhibition comes to Colchester Library for a free\, month-long public exhibition exploring the lives and experiences of people affected by leprosy. \nThe project was conceived in 2019 by Emeritus Professor Diana Lockwood to challenge some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. \nWorking with photographer Tom Bradley\, the project visited Lepra’s programmes in India and Bangladesh\, meeting people affected by leprosy and recording their stories as they dealt with the physical\, social and emotional impact of diagnosis. \nBradley’s portraits aim to present the people photographed\, first and foremost\, as individuals\, challenging some of the images traditionally associated with leprosy and showing people living independent\, fulfilling lives. \nAlongside the photography\, the Colchester exhibition will feature artefacts from Lepra’s archives\, looking back at the organisation’s history and its work throughout the 20th century to improve the lives of people affected by leprosy and develop new treatments. \nThe exhibition is free to visit\, and no booking or ticket is required. \nTwo special events will also take place during the exhibition\, including a talk on Lepra’s history on Wednesday 21 October and a children’s storytelling session on Friday 30 October.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/new-face-for-leprosy-exhibition/
LOCATION:Colchester Library and Community Hub\, 21 Trinity Square\, Colchester\, CO1 1JB\, GB
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/a-new-face-for-leprosy-exhibition-colchester.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Lepra":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261002T083000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261029T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T084207Z
CREATED:20260923T084207Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T084207Z
UID:134166-1790929800-1793291400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Bridging Dreams: By Sakai International Community Arts
DESCRIPTION:Bridging Dreams By Sakai International Community Arts\n2 to 29 October 2026\nLevel Best Art Gallery\, Colchester \nThis October\, Level Best Art Gallery welcomes Bridging Dreams\, a special international exhibition connecting artists in Sakai City\, Japan\, with the Level Best community in Colchester. \nFounded in Osaka in 2019\, Sakai International Community Arts is an inclusive arts organisation that brings disabled and non-disabled people together through art\, theatre\, and creative workshops. Its talented members work across painting\, calligraphy\, performance and dance. \nFor many of the artists\, travelling overseas is difficult\, but they have long dreamed of sharing their work internationally. Bridging Dreams makes that possible\, allowing their artwork to cross the ocean and create new connections between Japan and the UK. \nThe exhibition celebrates creativity without borders and the growing relationship between Sakai International Community Arts and Level Best Enterprises. \nThis project has been made possible with the generous support of The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation. \n 
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/bridging-dreams-by-sakai-international-community-arts/
LOCATION:Level Best Enterprises\, Level Best Enterprises
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Bridging-Dreams-1024x1024-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261010T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270228T000000
DTSTAMP:20260921T160859Z
CREATED:20260921T160740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T160859Z
UID:133879-1791590400-1803772800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Against the Tide
DESCRIPTION:What does it mean to grow up by the sea today? \nFrom ambition and creativity to isolation and inequality\, explore intimate photographs and firsthand accounts that document what life is really like for young people growing up in coastal Britain. \nAbout the exhibition \nDocumentary photographer Polly Braden and journalist Lisa Bachelor spent more than a year travelling to coastal communities across England\, working closely with young people aged 16–25 using photographs\, film and personal stories to explore their lives. \nCreated as part of The Guardian’s Seascape series\, Against the Tide looks beyond the negative portrayals to reveal a more complicated picture of coastal Britain today. \nAcross Tendring\, Weston-super-Mare\, Scarborough\, Grimsby\, Southend\, Portsmouth\, Whitehaven\, Rhyl and Blackpool\, Polly’s photographs bring us into the lives of a generation growing up in some of the most deprived and often-forgotten places in England. \nAlongside accounts of isolation and lack of opportunity are expressions of resilience\, ambition and hope\, and a clear message: coastal towns are not just sites of decline\, but places of creativity and possibility. \nYoung people involved in this exhibition have created their own photographs\, exchanged ideas with peers and shared their experiences with UK policymakers\, showing how creativity and personal stories together can help inform decisions about coastal communities beyond words and numbers. \nWhat to expect \nDiscover intimate portraits\, honest first-hand accounts and a close-up look at the everyday lives of young people growing up in coastal England. \nPolly’s photographs are paired with the words and experiences of the young people she met\, creating a layered portrait of places that are often overlooked or reduced to stories of decline. \nThese artworks reflect both the challenges and strengths of coastal communities. Young people speak about education\, work\, mental health\, belonging and opportunity. \nThey also share stories of friendship\, creativity\, resilience and pride in where they come from. \nAbout Polly Braden \nPolly Braden is a documentary photographer known for her intimate\, long-term collaborations. \nHer work focuses on overlooked communities and social issues\, and her distinctive style combines quiet observation with deep empathy. \nPolly believes art can do more than tell stories. It gives people a chance to speak for themselves\, encourages empathy and starts conversations about issues that matter. \nWith special thanks to Attwells Solicitors\, Seán Kelly\, and Catherine for their generous contribution towards this exhibition. \n 
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/against-the-tide/
LOCATION:Firstsite\, Lewis Gardens\, Colchester\, CO1 1JH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/PollyBraden_Millicent_2025-07162025_Against_the_tide__PollyBraden_B0014464-Millicent_-small.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261010T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270228T000000
DTSTAMP:20261015T145345Z
CREATED:20261015T145345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T145345Z
UID:135711-1791590400-1803772800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Polly Braden: Against the Tide
DESCRIPTION:What does it mean to grow up by the sea today? \nFrom ambition and creativity to isolation and inequality\, explore intimate photographs and first-hand accounts documenting what life is really like for young people growing up in coastal Britain. \n  \nAbout the exhibition \nDocumentary photographer Polly Braden and journalist Lisa Bachelor spent more than a year travelling to coastal communities across England\, working closely with young people aged 16–25 using photographs\, film and personal stories to explore their lives. \nCreated as part of The Guardian’s Seascape series\, Against the Tide looks beyond the negative portrayals to reveal a more complicated picture of coastal Britain today. \nAcross Tendring\, Weston-super-Mare\, Scarborough\, Grimsby\, Southend\, Portsmouth\, Whitehaven\, Rhyl and Blackpool\, Polly’s photographs bring us into the lives of a generation growing up in some of the most deprived and often forgotten places across England. \nAlongside accounts of isolation and lack of opportunity are expressions of resilience\, ambition and hope\, and a clear message: coastal towns are not just sites of decline\, but places of creativity and possibility. \nYoung people involved in this exhibition have created their own photographs\, exchanged ideas with peers and shared their experiences with UK policymakers\, showing how creativity and personal stories together can help inform decisions about coastal communities beyond words and numbers. \nPolly Braden: Against the Tide originated at Arnolfini\, Bristol\, in collaboration with Polly Braden. \n  \nWhat to expect \nDiscover intimate portraits\, honest first-hand accounts and a close-up look at the everyday lives of young people growing up in coastal England. \nPolly’s photographs are paired with the words and experiences of the young people she met\, creating a layered portrait of places that are often overlooked or reduced to stories of decline. \nThese artworks reflect both the challenges and strengths of coastal communities. Young people speak about education\, work\, mental health\, belonging and opportunity. \nThey also share stories of friendship\, creativity\, resilience and pride in where they come from. \nAbout Polly Braden \nPolly Braden is a documentary photographer known for her intimate\, long-term collaborations. \nHer work focuses on overlooked communities and social issues\, and her distinctive style combines quiet observation with deep empathy. \nPolly believes art can do more than tell stories. It gives people a chance to speak for themselves\, encourages empathy and starts conversations about issues that matter. \nWith special thanks to Attwells Solicitors\, Seán Kelly\, and Catherine for their generous contribution towards this exhibition.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/polly-braden-against-the-tide/
LOCATION:Firstsite\, Lewis Gardens\, Colchester\, CO1 1JH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/PollyBraden_Millicent_2025-07162025_Against_the_tide__PollyBraden_B0014464-Millicent_-small-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261010T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270228T160000
DTSTAMP:20260905T130039Z
CREATED:20260905T130039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T130039Z
UID:132225-1791626400-1803830400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent
DESCRIPTION:Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent brings a major exhibition of street and urban contemporary art to The Minories in Colchester. \nThe exhibition features 28 original artworks by Banksy alongside significant works by more than 20 other artists from the international street art and urban contemporary art movement. Every Banksy work included is either an original artwork or an artist-certified print. \nThe majority of the works have been lent by John Brandler of Brandler Galleries in Brentwood. \nOut of Line runs at The Minories from Saturday 10 October 2026 until Sunday 28 February 2027. \nTickets are £12.50 for adults\, with concessions from £7. \nThe exhibition is supported by Colchester City Council and Sonia & Giles Coode-Adams.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/out-of-line-banksy-and-the-art-of-dissent/
LOCATION:The Minories\, 74 High Street\, Colchester CO1 1UE\, The Minories\, 74 High Street\, Colchester CO1 1UE
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ORGANIZER;CN="The Minories":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261020T194500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T214500
DTSTAMP:20260921T194145Z
CREATED:20260921T194145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T194145Z
UID:134004-1792525500-1792619100@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Phantom of Friar Street
DESCRIPTION:By Pat Whymark \nCommon Ground Theatre Company \nA mysterious house\, a troubled past and a warning that goes unheeded… Pat Whymark’s spine-chilling ghost story with live music blends suspense\, humour and theatrical storytelling in the classic tradition. As the secrets of No. 17 Friar Street unfold\, audiences can expect shocks\, haunting atmosphere and a moving tale of enduring love and loyalty.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/the-phantom-of-friar-street/
LOCATION:Headgate Theatre\, 14 Chapel Street North\, Colchester\, CO2 7AT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Phantom-of-Friar-St-Square-web-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T173000
DTSTAMP:20260917T152815Z
CREATED:20260910T162909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T152815Z
UID:132693-1792598400-1792603800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:From Belra to Lepra: The History of Lepra
DESCRIPTION:Lepra historian Irene Allen comes to Colchester Library for a special talk exploring the history of the charity. \nTaking place as part of the New Face for Leprosy exhibition\, From Belra to Lepra will look at the organisation’s history and its work to improve the lives of people affected by leprosy. \nThe wider exhibition brings together photography from the New Face for Leprosy project with artefacts from Lepra’s archives\, documenting the organisation’s work and achievements throughout the 20th century. \nThe New Face for Leprosy project was conceived by Emeritus Professor Diana Lockwood and features photography by Tom Bradley\, who travelled to Lepra programmes in India and Bangladesh to meet and photograph people affected by the disease. \nIrene Allen’s talk begins at 4pm on Wednesday 21st October 2026 at Colchester Library.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/from-belra-to-lepra-the-history-of-lepra/
LOCATION:Colchester Library and Community Hub\, 21 Trinity Square\, Colchester\, CO1 1JB\, GB
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/from-belra-to-lepra-irene-allen-colchester.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Lepra":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T213000
DTSTAMP:20261005T160037Z
CREATED:20261005T160037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T160037Z
UID:135072-1792607400-1792618200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:FUN & GAYMES: LGBTQ+ NIGHT
DESCRIPTION:Our Monthly LGBTQ+ Gaming Social! Third Wednesday of the month! \nNext LGBTQ+ Nights \nWednesday 21st Oct – 6:30pm-9:30pm \nRun by the amazing people at Colchester Pride! Fee entry! Get your free tickets at the link below
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/fun-gaymes-lgbtq-night/
LOCATION:Dice & A Slice\, 37 Queen Street\, Colchester\, CO1 2PQ\, GB
CATEGORIES:Variety
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T195000
DTSTAMP:20261015T111632Z
CREATED:20261015T111632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T111632Z
UID:135312-1792609200-1792612200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Boudica & Me: I’ll Share the Fire but Not the Ashes
DESCRIPTION:Rebekah Wallace-Brown returns with I’ll Share the Fire But Not the Ashes—a deeper\, brasher exploration of Boudica’s history and the raw reality of modern womanhood. \nShe unpacks who Boudica really was: the flogging\, the rebellion\, the survival. Then she brings it home—to menopause as a sacred forge\, to claiming boundaries\, and to the stubborn act of getting back up. \nThe ashes are not trauma. They are what she earned by walking through her own fires. She shares the flame of resilience freely—but the wisdom of what she’s survived is hers. \nExpect history\, humour\, and unflinching honesty. You’ll leave feeling seen\, challenged\, and maybe a little bit on fire.						 \nColchester Fringe Festival. Performance venue: Coda. \nAge Suitability: 14yrs+ \nSensitive Content: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes\, Strong Language/Swearing \nTicket Price: £13 \nBooking information.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/boudica-me-ill-share-the-fire-but-not-the-ashes/
LOCATION:CODA \,63\, High Street\, Colchester\, CODA \,63\, High Street\, Colchester
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/08-28-2026-161342-3304.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T210000
DTSTAMP:20260923T152317Z
CREATED:20260923T152317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T152317Z
UID:134388-1792609200-1792616400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:TWO BREWS ONE QUIZ
DESCRIPTION:Our infamous monthly in-house quiz/gameshow takes place in the cellar where 5 teams fight it out in a chaotic bacchanal! Perfect for pub quiz haters and people who know nothing!
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/two-brews-one-quiz-4/
LOCATION:Two Brews\, 11 Church Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1NF\, GB
CATEGORIES:Quiz
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2bq1v2INSTAposter.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T210000
DTSTAMP:20260924T101519Z
CREATED:20260924T101515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T101519Z
UID:134482-1792609200-1792616400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Toilet Monologues - Number Two
DESCRIPTION:From the writer and producers of last year's sell-out show\, Wonky Hearts Collective present a brand new collection of monologues Four new women. Four new toilets. Four new stories. In the most private of public spaces the masks drop and from behind the cubicle doors the women reveal their innermost thoughts. Once again\, the stories will be bold\, tender and unflinching\, exploring challenging themes with warmth\, wit and humour. This is theatre that isn’t afraid to get messy\, funny\, awkward and real. Just like life. Winner of 'Spirit of the Fringe Award' 2025 \nColchester Fringe The Toilet Monologues – Number Two \nPlease note: The end time shown is an estimate. Please check with the venue for confirmation.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/the-toilet-monologues-number-two-4/
LOCATION:The Dragonfly Lounge\, The Dragonfly Lounge
CATEGORIES:Performance,Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/screenshot-2026-09-19-at-15.07.29-Inlh5qIH2gyyD5zt.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T194500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T224500
DTSTAMP:20261014T182735Z
CREATED:20261014T182735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T182735Z
UID:135238-1792611900-1792622700@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Wednesday Open Mic Night
DESCRIPTION:The Victoria Inn Open Mic Night\, hosted by Stu E Skinner. \nBring yourself… or send your friends in place of you…. or come with your friends and get involved. \nBring your instruments or borrow mine (Guitar\, Piano\, Cajon & Mics provided). \nWe run a sign-up board & work through the names in order & attendance prioritising those who arrive before 9. \nThe sign-up board goes up around 7:30pm\, and the mic goes live around 8pm. We wrap up at 10:45pm \nPerformers usually get 2-3 songs (up to 15 minutes in total)\, but this depends on the number of participants on the night.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/wednesday-open-mic-night-3/
LOCATION:Victoria Inn\, 10 North Station Road\, Colchester\, CO1 1RB\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Wednesday-Open-MIc-Night-at-Victoria-Inn-Colchester-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T200000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T220000
DTSTAMP:20260913T200926Z
CREATED:20260913T153803Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260913T200926Z
UID:133057-1792612800-1792620000@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Literal Translation
DESCRIPTION:Will Alice learn her Aller from her Avoir\, or will she be forced to resort to dance? \nPerformance Poet\, Alice d’Lumiere\, is an experienced writer and comedienne; however for someone working as a communicator she is\, like many British people\, embarrassingly monolingual.  \nIn 2023 Alice was invited to take her Transgender themed show Speaking Out and Fitting In to “Le Printemps Anglophone Festival” in Avignon\, where despite performing a full solo work in English\, she found herself unable to even order a coffee in French without causing chaos.  \nThe Literal Translation is her playful\, silly\, but absurdly honest response to this failure; a piece about late life learning\, shifting identity\, non-conforming voices and romanticizing the exotic.  \nFor Alice’s last show she learned opera to overcome a childhood fear of singing\, this time her challenge is speaking in another language.  \nA bilingual\, autobiographical show combining gender-fluid prose\, verse\, comedy and song with some foolhardy attempts at actual French! \nWriter / Performer: Alice d’Lumiere Movement Director: Angelica Bangs Composer: Tina Gooding Translation Consultant: Katy Salmon \nPay what you can afford Doors open 7.30pm\, Show starts 8pm  \nhttps://colchesterartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173668081/events/428731451?_gl=1*1fmywtq*_ga*MTg5MDk5NDk5NS4xNzEzMzQ2ODg0*_ga_Y4V7HBYV3K*czE3ODU4NTIxMTUkbzkxJGcxJHQxNzg1ODUyMjk0JGo2MCRsMCRoMA
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/the-literal-translation-at-colchester-arts-centre/
LOCATION:Colchester Arts Centre\, Church Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1NF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/133057_image_807938373_1715112857288768_7710168054738350661_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T200000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T235900
DTSTAMP:20260929T150512Z
CREATED:20260929T150512Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T150512Z
UID:134845-1792612800-1792627140@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Burlesque and Cocktails
DESCRIPTION:Daisy Diamond Presents: A Night of Amorous Artistry at Coda Step into a world of glitz\, glamour\, and playful sophistication as Daisy Diamond brings you an unforgettable evening of burlesque.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/burlesque-and-cocktails-3/
LOCATION:CODA \,63\, High Street\, Colchester\, CODA \,63\, High Street\, Colchester
CATEGORIES:Variety
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/45e16b_744dde3f970d45fbb892c14ff3fa2456mv2-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T203000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T213000
DTSTAMP:20261015T111632Z
CREATED:20261015T111632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T111632Z
UID:135314-1792614600-1792618200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Elmer’s Fringe Jazz Club
DESCRIPTION:Patch presents\, as part of Colchester Fringe\, two one hour sets of superb live jazz (8:30 and 10pm) featuring Chris Allard on guitar and Zak Barrett on sax with Rob Palmer on double bass and Elmer van der Hoek on drums.  \nChris Allard is a highly acclaimed freelance guitarist based in Wivenhoe. He has performed at major venues such as the Royal Albert Hall\, the Pyramids and Great Sphinx (Cairo)\, the Barbican\, Montreux Jazz Festival and Ronnie Scott’s. He has released several albums under his name and has performed and recorded with the likes of Jacqui Dankworth\, Dave O’Higgins\, Dame Cleo Laine\, Sir John Dankworth\, Jamie Cullum and regularly tours with the BBC Big Band (www.chrisallard.co.uk). \nZak Barrett is an accomplished saxophonist and clarinetist who features in many popular jazz bands and plays in lifelong collaborations (recently also as a duet) with worldclass guitar maestro Guthrie Govan.Rob Palmer is a highly experienced double bassist who has played with many top class UK jazz musicians whilst he was leading his jazz club in Felixstowe. \nLocal jazz jam organiser Elmer van der Hoek completes the lineup on drums. \nThe bar has local beers\, fine wines\, a selection of soft drinks and snacks available on the night (no warm food this time).Doors open 15 min before the sets. Please arrive in good time\, as the band will be playing close to the entrance.						 \nColchester Fringe Festival. Performance venue: Patch. \nAge Suitability: All Ages \nSensitive Content: None \nTicket Price: £13 \nBooking information.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/elmers-fringe-jazz-club/
LOCATION:Patch\, 24 Trinity Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1JN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10-13-2026-154323-9393.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T203000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T213000
DTSTAMP:20261015T135619Z
CREATED:20261015T135619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T135619Z
UID:135501-1792614600-1792618200@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Wonderful Wednesdays: The Literal Translation!
DESCRIPTION:Performance poet\, Alice d’Lumiere challenges herself to overcome her childhood inability to communicate in any language beyond English. Will she learn her Aller from her Avoir\, or will she be forced to resort to dance? An honest\, autobiographical show combining gender-fluid prose\, verse\, comedy and song with some foolhardy attempts at actual French!						 \nColchester Fringe Festival. Performance venue: Colchester Arts Centre. \nAge Suitability: 16yrs + \nTicket Price: FREE \nBooking information.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/wonderful-wednesdays-the-literal-translation/
LOCATION:Colchester Arts Centre\, Church Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1NF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/09-16-2026-135939-2273.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T220000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261021T230000
DTSTAMP:20261015T144829Z
CREATED:20261015T144829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T144829Z
UID:135373-1792620000-1792623600@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Elmer’s Fringe Jazz Club
DESCRIPTION:Patch presents\, as part of Colchester Fringe\, two one hour sets of superb live jazz (8:30 and 10pm) featuring Chris Allard on guitar and Zak Barrett on sax with Rob Palmer on double bass and Elmer van der Hoek on drums.  \nChris Allard is a highly acclaimed freelance guitarist based in Wivenhoe. He has performed at major venues such as the Royal Albert Hall\, the Pyramids and Great Sphinx (Cairo)\, the Barbican\, Montreux Jazz Festival and Ronnie Scott’s. He has released several albums under his name and has performed and recorded with the likes of Jacqui Dankworth\, Dave O’Higgins\, Dame Cleo Laine\, Sir John Dankworth\, Jamie Cullum and regularly tours with the BBC Big Band (www.chrisallard.co.uk). \nZak Barrett is an accomplished saxophonist and clarinetist who features in many popular jazz bands and plays in lifelong collaborations (recently also as a duet) with worldclass guitar maestro Guthrie Govan.Rob Palmer is a highly experienced double bassist who has played with many top class UK jazz musicians whilst he was leading his jazz club in Felixstowe. \nLocal jazz jam organiser Elmer van der Hoek completes the lineup on drums. \nThe bar has local beers\, fine wines\, a selection of soft drinks and snacks available on the night (no warm food this time).Doors open 15 min before the sets. Please arrive in good time\, as the band will be playing close to the entrance.						 \nColchester Fringe Festival. Performance venue: Patch. \nAge Suitability: All Ages \nSensitive Content: None \nTicket Price: £13 \nBooking information.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/elmers-fringe-jazz-club-2/
LOCATION:Patch\, 24 Trinity Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1JN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10-13-2026-154323-9393-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261022T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261022T020000
DTSTAMP:20260924T101519Z
CREATED:20260924T101515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T101519Z
UID:134484-1792627200-1792634400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:A Canadian Explains Eurovision to Brits
DESCRIPTION:With one foot in stand‑up comedy\, the other in TED‑style presentation\, this one‑person musical ride dives into Eurovision’s history\, queer joy\, fandom culture\, and identity. Expect big music\, big humour and heartfelt reflections woven through slides and song. **** – Edmonton Journal\, ***** – Hamilton Hammer\, 2025 Calgary Fringe Award Winner\, “McLean has broken the code to Eurovision and rises like a phoenix to share it with us in this wonderfully heartfelt stand‑up show.” – FringeReview.co.uk “Matti skillfully weaves songs through his personal story as a gay man coming out … a wonderful hour of musical performances and anecdotes about self‑discovery.” – The Vibe Hamilton “McLean’s delivery often borders on stand‑up\, full of sharp wit and campy charm. But he also allows space for quieter\, moving reflections.” – The Hammer Monthly \nColchester Fringe A Canadian Explains Eurovision to Brits \nPlease note: The end time shown is an estimate. Please check with the venue for confirmation.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/a-canadian-explains-eurovision-to-brits-7/
LOCATION:The Dragonfly Lounge\, The Dragonfly Lounge
CATEGORIES:Performance,Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/screenshot-2026-09-19-at-15.03.25-NiNikPRVprAzklzg.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261022T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261022T020000
DTSTAMP:20260924T101519Z
CREATED:20260924T101515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T101519Z
UID:134490-1792627200-1792634400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:A Canadian Explains Eurovision to Brits
DESCRIPTION:With one foot in stand‑up comedy\, the other in TED‑style presentation\, this one‑person musical ride dives into Eurovision’s history\, queer joy\, fandom culture\, and identity. Expect big music\, big humour and heartfelt reflections woven through slides and song. \n“McLean has broken the code to Eurovision and rises like a phoenix to share it with us in this wonderfully heartfelt stand‑up show.” – FringeReview.co.uk \n“Matti skillfully weaves songs through his personal story as a gay man coming out … a wonderful hour of musical performances and anecdotes about self‑discovery.” – The Vibe Hamilton \n“McLean’s delivery often borders on stand‑up\, full of sharp wit and campy charm. But he also allows space for quieter\, moving reflections.” – The Hammer Monthly \nA Canadian Explains Eurovision to Brits \n 
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/a-canadian-explains-eurovision-to-brits/
LOCATION:The Dragonfly Lounge\, The Dragonfly Lounge
CATEGORIES:Performance,Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/screenshot-2026-09-19-at-15.03.25-NiNikPRVprAzklzg-1.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR