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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Keep Colchester Cool
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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: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
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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
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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:20261121T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270117T183000
DTSTAMP:20260905T155155Z
CREATED:20260905T155155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T155155Z
UID:132262-1795269600-1800210600@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Jack and the Beanstalk - Mercury Theatre\, Colchester
DESCRIPTION:The Mercury Theatre presents Jack and the Beanstalk\, its 2026 Christmas pantomime\, with Colchester panto favourites Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville returning for another festive production. \nJack lives at Trott’s farm with Trevor and their mum Tilly\, but money is running low. When ruthless landowner Augusta Bigbucks buys the farm\, the family reluctantly decide to sell their beloved cow Pat at Culver Square market. \nThe appearance of a giant beanstalk soon changes everything\, leaving Jack with the challenge of climbing to Cloudland\, confronting a fearsome giant and attempting to save Colchester. \nJack and the Beanstalk runs at the Mercury Theatre from Saturday 21 November 2026 to Sunday 17 January 2027\, with daytime and evening performances throughout the run. \nThe production runs for approximately 2 hours 30 minutes\, including an interval. Family performances have an age guidance of 5+\, with separate 18+ adult performances taking place in January. \nThe show is likely to contain haze\, loud noises\, loud music\, and flashing lights. Relaxed\, BSL-interpreted\, audio-described and captioned performances are available on selected dates.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/jack-and-the-beanstalk-mercury-theatre-colchester/
LOCATION:Mercury Theatre\, Balkerne Gate\, Colchester\, CO1 1PT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Kids & Family,Theatre
ORGANIZER;CN="Mercury Theatre Colchester":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T213000
DTSTAMP:20260907T033812Z
CREATED:20260827T160422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T033812Z
UID:131464-1796236200-1796247000@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Christmas Wreath Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Start the festive season with a creative morning making your own stunning Christmas wreath at The Lexden Crown\, Colchester. \nWhether you prefer a traditional style or something a little more contemporary\, you’ll be guided step-by-step to create a wreath that is perfect for your front door or as a handmade Christmas gift. A selection of seasonal foliage\, decorations\, ribbons\, and embellishments will be available\, allowing you to make your wreath truly unique. \nNo previous experience is needed\, making this workshop ideal for complete beginners as well as those who have enjoyed wreath making before. All materials and tuition are included\, so you can simply relax and enjoy a festive and creative evening. \nWednesday 2nd December – 6:30pm \nThe Lexden Crown235 London Road\, Colchester\, CO3 4DA£53.50 per person\, including dinner \nWhat’s included:Step-by-step tuitionAll wreath-making materialsSeasonal foliage and decorationsYour finished wreath to take homeDinner at The Lexden Crown \nPerfect for friends\, family\, or anyone looking to enjoy a festive treat and make something special for Christmas. Spaces are limited\, so early booking is recommended. \nDinner choices: \nFish & chips with garden peasHomemade chicken & turkey pie with mash potatoPenne pasta with a pepper & tomato ragu\, Parmesan cheese (v & gf) \nA lovely seasonal workshop to enjoy with friends\, family\, or as a relaxing creative treat for yourself.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/christmas-wreath-workshop-2/
LOCATION:The Lexden Crown\, Bistro Pub – Colchester\, The Lexden Crown\, Bistro Pub - Colchester
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="The Creative Workshop Company":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T220000
DTSTAMP:20260909T114445Z
CREATED:20260905T033815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T114445Z
UID:132204-1796238000-1796248800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:LOL & Glass Eye Comedy Presents Stand Up for Foodbanks
DESCRIPTION:Standup for Foodbanks \nJoin us for an evening of top-tier comedy with a vital purpose at the Standup for Foodbanks benefit show on December 2nd. \nTo help local families ahead of the holiday season\, entry requires one full bag of non-perishable food items per ticket. Every item collected goes directly to supporting our community’s local food banks.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/lol-glass-eye-comedy-presents-stand-up-for-foodbanks/
LOCATION:CO1 1DN Colchester\, United Kingdom\, CO1 1DN Colchester\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Comedy
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T220000
DTSTAMP:20260911T131814Z
CREATED:20260910T033747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260911T131814Z
UID:132648-1796238000-1796248800@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:LATES – The Ed Poets Society
DESCRIPTION:Calling all poetry lovers! \nMaybe you like listening to poetry.Maybe you like sharing your poetry.Maybe you’ve never shared it before.Maybe you know a poet. \nIf you fall into one of the above\, then come along to the Mercury Theatre on Wed 2 Dec! \nWhether you bring a friend or come to make new ones. \nEd Ismail is providing a safe space for people to express themselves using the power of their words. \nCome. Be moved. Be inspired. \nThe event takes place from 7pm in our Café Bar. \nIf you want to read/perform on the night\, you can sign up with Ed from 6:45pm.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/lates-the-ed-poets-society-2/
LOCATION:Mercury Theatre\, Balkerne Gate\, Colchester\, CO1 1PT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance
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ORGANIZER;CN="Mercury Theatre Colchester":MAILTO:noreply@facebookmail_com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T223000
DTSTAMP:20260907T033812Z
CREATED:20260827T160422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T033812Z
UID:131466-1796239800-1796250600@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:Christmas at the Movies - Charter Hall - Colchester
DESCRIPTION:Christmas at the Movies is a spectacular live concert experience that brings the most beloved festive film scores to life\, performed by The Great British Film Orchestra. This enchanting evening celebrates the music that has defined generations of holiday memories – rich\, emotional and instantly recognisable. \nFrom the heart-warming charm of Home Alone and Love Actually\, to the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol\, feel the excitement of The Polar Express\, the fantasy of Harry Potter\, the joy of Elf\, and many more cinematic classics – all reimagined in a breath-taking chamber orchestral performance. \nThe Great British Film Orchestra is one of the UK’s premier live film music ensembles\, renowned for its dynamic performances and cinematic authenticity. Specialising in the greatest scores from film\, television and popular culture\, the orchestra brings iconic soundtracks to life with exceptional musicianship and theatrical flair. \nSet against a magical atmosphere\, this concert blends sweeping symphonic sound\, festive spirit and cinematic storytelling into an unforgettable seasonal celebration. Whether you are a lifelong film music fan or simply looking for the perfect way to embrace the holiday season\, Christmas at the Movies promises an evening filled with nostalgia and Christmas magic. \nDisclaimer  \nPlease be advised that this orchestral performance will include the use of bright flashing lights and Portman lighting effects. These may involve intense flashes\, rapid light changes\, and bright visual effects\, which may be synchronised with the music. \nIn addition\, there may be moments of heightened volume and dynamic contrast typical of a live orchestra. \nThese elements may not be suitable for individuals with photosensitive epilepsy\, sensory sensitivities\, or those sensitive to loud sound levels. Viewer discretion is advised. \nIf you have any concerns or require assistance\, please speak to a member of staff prior to the performance. Ear protection is recommended for those who may be sensitive to louder passages.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/christmas-at-the-movies-charter-hall-colchester/
LOCATION:Colchester Charter Hall\, Colchester Charter Hall
CATEGORIES:Music
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T194500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T230000
DTSTAMP:20260917T083000Z
CREATED:20260917T083000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T083000Z
UID:133398-1796240700-1796252400@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Wandering Hearts
DESCRIPTION:Tickets £26.50\nDoors 7pm\, show 7.45pm\nThis gig is for a seated audience\n\nThe Wandering Hearts 8.45 – 10pm\nSupport 7.45pm – 8.15pm\n\nI'm dreaming of a Wandering Hearts Christmas\n\nThis winter\, the darlings of UK americana The Wandering Hearts return to some of their favourite spots in the UK for an exclusive festive celebration. \nChess\, Tara and AJ will be bringing their signature sound to a number of Christmas favourites as well as their own catalog of music.\n\nExpect luscious harmonies\, sing alongs and plenty of laughs in what is fast becoming an annual xmas tradition.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/the-wandering-hearts/
LOCATION:Colchester Arts Centre\, Church Street\, Colchester\, CO1 1NF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/the-wandering-hearts.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T200000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T235900
DTSTAMP:20261008T181737Z
CREATED:20261008T181737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T181737Z
UID:135156-1796241600-1796255940@keepcolchestercool.co.uk
SUMMARY:BAND-AOKE AT CODA
DESCRIPTION:Warm up those vocal cords and lower your standards — it’s Karaoke Night with a LIVE BAND! Whether you sing like a superstar or a smoke alarm\, our band will back you all the way. Grab the mic\, grab a drink\, and prepare for a night of questionable notes and unforgettable fun.
URL:https://keepcolchestercool.co.uk/event/band-aoke-at-coda-3/
LOCATION:CODA\, High Street\, Colchester
CATEGORIES:Music
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