Keep Colchester Cool

Crafty Fools: Adventures In Science
2026-02-07 13:30 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £12 / £10 concessions.Doors open 1.30pm, show starts 2pm.For all aged 6 and up.
Join ‘The Magical Mr West’ on an incredible adventure into the world of science! Aided by his corvid companion Crowbert and a collection of curious contraptions, Mr West demonstrates the fundamental principles of scientific enquiry and tackles some of the trickiest questions in the history of humanity.
Best known as one half of magic duo ‘Morgan & West’, ‘The Magical Mr West’ has travelled around the world performing to audiences of all ages with spectacular shows that include magic, science and a good deal of tomfoolery.
Now he presents his most amazing show yet, with the help (or possibly hindrance…) of a wisecracking cartoon crow.
Expect skills, silliness and the studious application of logic as you

Family Film Concert
2026-02-07 19:30 - 22:00 | St Botolphs Church, Colchester, GB
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and magic as SBMS brings the silver screen to life! Packed with blockbuster favourites and iconic scores that have captured hearts across generations, this is a night of adventure, drama and nostalgia that the whole family will love.
From the playful mischief of Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice to the swashbuckling excitement of Pirates of the Caribbean, this thrilling programme spans fantasy, romance and high-octane action. Feel the wonder of John Williams’ Harry Potter and Raiders March, soar with James Horner’s sweeping music from Titanic, and experience the heroic grandeur of Walton’s Henry V.
Whether you’re humming along or discovering these masterpieces for the first time, this concert promises a feel-good celebration of film music at its finest.
Programme
Dukas: Sorcerer’s ApprenticeBadelt: Pirates of the CaribbeanJohn Williams: Highlights from Harry PotterHorner: TitanicJohn Williams: Raiders MarchWalton: Music from Henry VJohn Williams: Star Wars: The MenaceElfman: Avengers: Age of UltronJohn Williams: Flying Theme from E.T. the Extra TerrestrialVarious composers: Themes from James Bond
This concert is sponsored by the Hervey Benham Charitable Trust.
Tickets on sale until 12:00pm on Saturday, 7 February 2026. Tickets available on the door from 7:00pm (subject to availability).

Live Music Story of Rock 'n' Roll
2026-02-07 20:00 - 23:00 | The Flag, Colchester Road, Wivenhoe, , CO7 9HS Colchester, United Kingdom, The Flag, Colchester Road, Wivenhoe, , CO7 9HS Colchester, United Kingdom
Join us from 8pm for an unforgettable night as we take you on a journey through the greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll hits of all time! Sing, dance and relive the music that shaped generations.
Entry is free so why not book a table for a comfortable night? Just £5 to secure your table which will be deducted from your final bill.

February 2026 Branch & Good Beer Guide Selection Meeting
2026-02-09 19:00 - 22:00 | Victoria Inn Colchester, 10 North Station Rd, Colchester, CO1 1RB, GB
Branch meeting and Good Beer Guide Selection meeting. Final chance to select pubs for the 2027 Good Beer Guide.

Reg Meuross & The Strike TRIO at Colchester Arts - Fire & Dust: A Woody Guthrie Story
2026-02-09 20:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
Commissioned and produced by Pete Townshend and created by award-winning singer-songwriter Reg Meuross, Fire & Dust: a Woody Guthrie Story has fast become one of the most powerful and acclaimed folk productions on today’s circuit. Townshend describes it as “folk music at its best,” praising Reg’s “terrific songs” which tell Guthrie’s life story “with respect, affection and truth.”
For this gig Reg is joined by two members of his touring band The Strike – a name inspired by the collective action and human resilience at the heart of Guthrie’s work. The Strike features Welsh pianist/accordionist Geraint Watkins (Nick Lowe, Van Morrison, Paul McCartney, Mark Knopfler) and renowned multi-instrumentalist Marion Fleetwood(TRADarrr, IOTA, The Sandy Denny Project).
Through songs and narrative, Fire & Dust traces Guthrie’s fight against racism, corruption and inequality, drawing poignant parallels with the world we face today. The performance blends Reg’s masterful songwriting with Guthrie’s enduring legacy: intimate, politically resonant, and deeply moving.
“What an absolute pleasure to hear Reg’s songs alongside some of Woody’s originals… his outstanding Woody Guthrie project Fire & Dust… this album deserves attention and plaudits. Joyful.” Ralph McTell
“A stunning tribute from one great folk artist to another.” Morning Star
“A true homage… beautiful lyrics sharing social history that is still highly relevant today.” RnR Magazine ★★★★
An unforgettable evening of music, storytelling and social history.

postpARTum
2026-02-10 08:30 - 16:00 | 26 St Johns Street, CO2 7HB Colchester, United Kingdom, 26 St Johns Street, CO2 7HB Colchester, United Kingdom
postpARTum is a group exhibition by mothers navigating creativity after birth. With each piece being made with limited time and broken sleep; the works reflect the struggle of reclaiming creativity in the midst of motherhood.
postpARTum opens on Tuesday, 3rd February and runs until Thursday 26th February. The gallery is open Monday-Friday 8.30-4pm.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1617780146307582/?event_time_id=1617780186307578

Infrared Photography - Talk by Roy Essery MPAGB
2026-02-10 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
In this enlightening talk, Roy delves into the techniques and creative possibilities offered by infrared imaging. Discover how this unique approach can expand your artistic vision, whether working in monochrome or colour mediums. An inspiring session for those seeking to push the boundaries of photographic expression.
(Visitors £5.00) shuttershot.co.uk

Omar Perry & Easy Riddim Maker: A Tribute to Lee Scratch Perry + Hobo Chang
2026-02-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £22.Doors open 7.30pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
Omar Perry was born and grown in Kingston Jamaica, the son of the legendary producer and song writer Yes, a name of a wizard who shook the world by giving birth to Reggae Dub. That produced some of the biggest reggae household names, yes, we are talking about Lee «Scratch» Perry!
At the age of 6, Omar and his little sister recorded on some of their father’s production such as “Thanks we get” by Junior Byles and “Ram Goat Liver” by Pluto Shervington.
Growing up in such a musical environment with some of the greatest reggae artists that ever worked in his father’s studio, the “Black Ark” Enough to be inspired by the greatest! Omar knew one day he would have to take his place on the Reggae Music chariot.|
After leaving Jamaica in 1996, he headed for London where he lived there for some time. Omar then found himself on a journey to Africa fulfilling a lifelong dream to touch the ground of the mother land, Africa. He lived in The Gambia for some years.
After returning to the UK 2000’s Omar set himself a new goal, the new challenge was Europe. On reaching the European scene, Omar did not waste any time in making himself someone that people talked about Adrian Sherwood produced his first single entitled “Rasta Meditation”.
He toured with Horace Andy, Jah Mason, Kiddus I, and his father Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry Share the stage with countless international artists, Sly & Robbie + Mykal Rose, Buju Banton, Alton Ellis, The Abyssinians, Kymani Marley, Max Romeo and Alborosie…. just to name a few. Omar did not rely on his father’s fame and had preferred to make his own way.
Over the years Like a man on a mission Omar emerged as an artist of the future: his ability to captivate and energize the massive is breath taking. He has released 7 studio albums between 2007 and 2022 Albums: ‘Man Free’, ‘Can’t Stop Us’, ‘The Journey’, ‘Be Cool’, ‘New Dawn’, ‘Living in the Jungle’, and ‘Life’.
Omar was contacted by the leader of band ERM, Olivier Gangloff, conceded that he was not only a band member that produces and playing for Lee Perry but a very close friend to the late great man, The talks sparked an instant connection that comes down to, creating a bridge now brings Omar and ERM together, in keeping the spirit, legacy and persona of one of the greatest reggae legends ever.
The album is entitled “Channeling Lee “Scratch” Perry, a tribute where Omar keeps his Identity and still explores the mind and soul barrier to re-create the embodiment of his Father LSP.
Support… HOBO CHANGHobo Chang are a 5 piece band from North East Essex. They write original songs and sound like a a dark psychedelic funky train ride, experimental and soulful with their roots in blues, jazz, reggae and the good bits of rock.
https://soundcloud.com/hobochang

WARGAME WEDNESDAY
2026-02-11 18:00 - 22:00 | Dice & A Slice, 37 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PQ, GB
Come & Join us for WARGAME WEDNESDAY! Bring you armies and get battling!

Tales Of A Tour Manager - Cherry Mullins
2026-02-11 19:30 - 22:30 | Christ Church Hall, Ireton Road, CO33AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Christ Church Hall, Ireton Road, CO33AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Presentation by Cherry Mullins (In French with English)
A light hearted look at Cherry’s excerpts from over 30 years experience of being a European Tour Guide brought to life through a slide show, combining stories and poems of places and people she’s encountered along the way.
If you have a love for France & all things French, you will enjoy our evenings, starting with refreshments (included) from 7.30pm and the speaker/event at 8pm prompt. Visitors are very welcome to join us for the evening £5.00.

Life Drawing - Thursday, 12th February 2026
2026-02-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Straight Road Community Centre, Straight Road Community Centre
We are a local life drawing group in Colchester. We meet up for untutored drawings with professional models from all backgrounds.
All abilities are welcome. Just drop in, draw and pay £10 cash for the session.
Drawing boards, easels, papers, charcoal and pencils are provided for free or bring your materials.
Accessible venue.
Location: Straight Road Community Centre329 Straight Road, Colchester, CO3 9EF

Victoria Inn General Knowledge Quiz 4
2026-02-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Victoria Inn Colchester, 10 North Station Rd, Colchester, CO1 1RB, GB
Test your general knowledge at the Victoria Inn General Knowledge Quiz, and help raise money for an incredible cause!
– £3 a head entry (CASH ONLY)– Maximum 4 to a team– Outside food & dogs welcome – Book on 01206 514510
Please bring the number of people you book for, and if you book and decide not to attend, please cancel your booking.
Please arrive at least twenty minutes before the quiz is due to start to place drink orders.

Al Murray - All You Need Is Guv
2026-02-12 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Sale Dates and Times:
Public Onsale : Fri, 27 Jun 2025 at 10:00 AM
Ticketmaster Presale : Wed, 25 Jun 2025 at 10:00 AM

Al Murray Live in Colchester
2026-02-12 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Britain’s funniest pub landlord Al Murray has announced the All You Need Is Guv Tour.Thu 12 Feb 2026, 19:30 | Charter Hall, Colchester
TICKETS>>> at ticketmaster: https://cnear.me/6GbyvQD>>> at seetickets: https://cnear.me/Htd1IiL
On sale on Friday 27 June 2025 at 10:00
Hey cool cats! Hot on the heels of a sell-out 138 date tour of these green and groovy isles, The Guv will be back, baby, with a brand-new stand-up show for 2026.
There’s no denying the world’s a mess daddio, but there is a glimmer of hope as the globe’s favourite Pub Landlord returns with his like-nobody-else Common Sense hot-takes for the masses, offering a much-needed truth tonic (pint for the fella/glass of white wine for the lady) for these whacked out and troubled times. With a fresh and frothing pint to hand, a barrel of laughs to pour from, and a flower in his heart, Guv is all you need.
And for the brave, bold, and plain straight crazy cats amongst you who want to be in on the action in the ‘Splash Zone’ book them quick and wear the damn ponchos!
*𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘬, 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯.

Jeanie From The Mountains + Swines + Evy Frearson
2026-02-12 19:30 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
Bestdays Live and Keep Colchester Cool in collaboration with Colchester Arts Centre present Jeanie from the Mountains, supported by Swines and Evy Frearson.
Jeanie from the Mountains was born in the back-office of Colchester’s beloved Best Days Vintage, where songwriter and frontman Jez Dixon teamed up with long-time friend Steve Hurdle enlisting bassman “daddy” Ian McGee and a couple of younger, better looking, 20 somethings, Archie Storrar and She’s In Parties’ drummer Matt Carman; with Helen Fisher completing the line-up.
The pair craft songs that feel built for stadiums – lyrically rich, cinematic, and steeped in a sound that blends alternative folk, soaring rock, and flashes of ‘Granddaddy’ inspired synth. Having sold out multiple headline shows in Colchester’s grassroots venues, the band released their debut single “Lattes in the Rain” last September, followed by “al5 5ong” (pronounced Al’s Song). November, they supported She’s in Parties on their Colchester homecoming show – marking this Jeanie from the Mountains’ first official support slot.
Thursday 12th February 2026 see them headline their biggest show to date at Colchester Arts Centre.
With big-hearted storytelling and a sound that’s both intimate and expansive, Jeanie from the Mountains are carving out their place as one of Colchester’s most exciting new acts.Instagram – @jeaniefromthemountains.
Support from:
SWINESGrunge garage rock in its rawest form Swines reimagines female fronted alternative rock in fresh and visceral ways.https://youtu.be/_xim2iLBufg?si=N8XLUHKcagcBi-s3
EVY FREARSONEvy is a 22-year-old British alternative floaty rock artist. Her writing and playing style are inspired by her love of legends from the 90s and more contemporary sounds such as Jeff Buckley, Yebba, and John Mayer. Evy has already been played on national and international radio, including BBC 2, BBC 6, BBC Introducing, Future Hits, CCR, Phoenix FM, Planet Rock and many others. They have all featured her music and supported her over the last couple of years. BBC 6’s Tom Robinson exclaimed, “Evy has a deep, rich, immersive sound”.https://evyfrearson.com/
DJ BEN HOWARDBefore and in between the acts.
Tickets £8 / £7 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a standing audience.

Community Art Jam, no art experience required!
2026-02-13 16:30 - 19:30 | Firstsite Colchester, Firstsite Colchester
I🎨 Art Jams at Firstsite – Everyone Welcome!
We’ve got two art jams coming up at the brilliant Firstsite Gallery:Friday 13th February and Friday 13th March.
You can book in advance or simply drop in during the 2-hour session. We’ll be set up in this fantastic gallery space, right next to the coffee bar ☕🎨
🔗 Booking (to reserve a spot):https://firstsite.uk/event/art-jam-with-art-harbour/
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Suitable for all ages – under-14s are very welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult.♿ Fully accessible venue, with blue badge parking right outside.
#communitycreativity #colchesterevents #firstsitegallery #artevents #localart

Yazmin wood singing Whitney 🤍
2026-02-13 19:00 - 22:00 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
🤎We can’t wait for this one!…. A fabulous night of some Whitney Houston music with some great floor fillers from the incredible Yazmin Wood !
Get your dancing shoes on and come along with all your friends and enjoy this one off night! something different for valentines too!
Tickets will be available on Monday from eventbrite…
Message us for more info at The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester

Fleetwood Unchained
2026-02-13 20:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
Introducing Fleetwood Unchained, the ultimate tribute to one of the most iconic and beloved bands of all time, Fleetwood Mac.
With a passion for their music and commitment to authenticity, Fleetwood Unchained deliver a faithful and unforgettable live experience that captures the essence of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary sound. Featuring highly experienced musicians and vocalists, the band brings to life Fleetwood Mac’s timeless hits, from the early blues-infused Peter Green classics to the pop-rock anthems that made them international superstars.
From Rhiannon and Go Your Own Way to Dreams and The Chain, Fleetwood Unchained play them all with precision, heart and high energy throughout. But it’s not just about the music with Fleetwood Unchained. The band members channel the personalities and dynamic chemistry of the original Fleetwood Mac line-up, creating a truly immersive performance that transports audiences back to the band’s heyday. Fleetwood Unchained – the tribute you don’t want to miss.

East of England Disabled Creatives Meet-Up
2026-02-14 10:00 - 13:00 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
The East of England Disabled Creatives Meet-Up is a free space for deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent creatives to meet, share and create!
As artists, don’t ask for permission. Take up space. For yourself and your work. We aim to provide that space for you!
This is a monthly in-person meet-up at the Mercury Theatre in collaboration with Graeae Theatre Company.
We welcome artists at any experience level, the aim is to establish a relaxed space for people to turn up for however long they wish within the meet-up session time. The meet-up is from 10am-1pm, but you are welcome to drop-in anytime. It will be an opportunity to network, meet new artists in your area and develop your practice.
We will be meeting in the upstairs bar at the Mercury Theatre, if you do not know where this is, please ask a member of our Box Office or Front of House staff and they will guide you. The Mercury’s Graeae Associate, Christian Markham, will always be in attendance to facilitate and/or answer any questions you might have about the Mercury, Graeae, or wider disabled arts initiatives.
BSL Interpreters will be in attendance.

Wildlife Worksheet
2026-02-14 10:00 - 17:00 | Colchester Natural History Museum, Colchester Natural History Museum
During our opening hours from 14 to 22 February, come try your hand at our wildlife worksheet!
Follow clues around the museum, complete a fun worksheet, and uncover fascinating facts as you explore natural history in this interactive, hands-on adventure designed for curious young visitors ages 5+.
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities the museum has, we recommend reading our Access information.
This event is free to all. No booking needed—just drop in and join the fun!
https://www.facebook.com/events/2051469228946864/?event_time_id=2051469232280197

Unicorn Quest Trail
2026-02-14 10:00 - 17:00 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
Inspired by the magical world of unicorns, dragons, and other legendary beasts, we are excited to offer a Mythical Creatures themed trail for our younger Castle visitors this half term, available from 14-22 February.
This interactive trail will guide children ages 5+ through the museum, encouraging them to explore, imagine, and discover as they complete fun activities inspired by creatures of myth and folklore. Join us for a legendary adventure and see what magical surprises await!
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information.
Trail sheets cost £5 (after purchasing an admission ticket) and include a prize at the end. Booking is not required; simply buy your trail at the front desk upon arrival.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1324732549699676/?event_time_id=1324732583033006

Friends & Lovers 90s & 00s RNB Day Party - Valentines Special
2026-02-14 15:00 - 21:00 | Trilogy Nightclub (formerly Hippodrome), 131 High Street , CO1 1SP, Trilogy Nightclub (formerly Hippodrome), 131 High Street , CO1 1SP
The Valentine’s Day PartyGet ready to catch a vibe this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking for your “Dilemma” or you’ve already found “The Boy Is Mine,” we’re turning up the heat from 3 PM to 9 PM for the ultimate day party experience.
We’re taking you on a journey through the golden eras of R&B, Hip-Hop, and UK Garage. Our line-up of heavy-hitter DJs and MCs are ready to “re-rewind” the clock, spinning everything from smooth serenades to high-energy basslines.
Want to join the bottomless cocktails? Grab yourself a Bottomless ticket and join us from 3pm-4pm to get the party started!
T&Cs
– A ticket is single entry only– Seating is first come first serve– Info@trilogycolchester.com for book enquries– No refunds– If you arrive after your ticket allocation, you will be charged the difference to the door charge.

Candlelight: Vivaldi's Four Seasons | Essex
2026-02-14 18:30 - 21:30 | Colchester Town Hall
👉 Tickets https://tinyurl.com/candlt-vivaldis-four-season-14
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Essex. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Vivaldi's Four Seasons at Colchester Town Hall – Moot Hall under the gentle glow of candlelight.
General Info📍 Venue: Colchester Town Hall – Moot Hall📅 Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector👤 Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult♿ Accessibility: this venue is wheelchair accessible🪑 Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone
Programme The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 1 RV 269: Spring The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 2 RV 315: Summer The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 3 RV 293: Autumn The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 4 RV 297: Winter Sonata n.12 in d-minor "La Follia" RV 63
Performers String Quartet – to be announced!
📣 Please share this event with your friends! 🎶👫

Cobain't - AC/DC Reborn - Guns 2 Roses @ Charter Hall Colchester
2026-02-14 19:00 - 23:00 | Charter Hall, Charter Hall
A night of Rock N Roll with tributes to Nirvana, AC/DC & Guns N Roses!

Colne Delta presents the best of UK Country featuring The Jackson Line and Florence Sommerville
2026-02-14 19:30 - 22:30 | St James Church, Brightlingsea, St James Church, Brightlingsea
Colne Delta present the best of UK Country featuring:-
THE JACKSON LINE
With two lead vocalists in the shape of Keith Porter and Jamie Cook, harmonies were always going to be front and centre in The Jackson Line, who deliver a modern take on classic Country and Americana. Storytelling, harmonies and guitars are at the heart of what they do.
The band are comfortable with the tag of ‘modern country’, but with each member bringing a wide range of differing influences to the table they create thoughtful, melodic songs, which capture the essence of country while allowing their other influences to permeate.
In the summer of 2022, the band were invited to Winnipeg, Canada to work with Juno Award-winning producer Murray Pulver on their second collection of songs.
“Our first EP was self-produced, and on reflection we focused too much on making it sound like a country record,” explains Keith. “This time around we set out to discover who we are as a band.”
The first single from their upcoming EP, Shade of the Pines, featured on Apple Music’s ‘Today’s Country’ editorial playlist, as well as being played on a host of radio stations including CountryLine and Radio Caroline.
The band will be releasing music throughout 2023 alongside performances at the 229 London, the Black Deer Festival, Nashville Meets London, and the return of their popular songwriters round in Chelmsford, the Radio City Sessions.
New single, Brave, out now“How do we tell the kids and who gets the house?” It’s the heart-wrenching breakdown that sums up Brave, the new single from modern-country band The Jackson Line. Layered with tender harmonies and powerful, emotive guitar, the song explores a relationship in its final moments, capturing the hurt, heartbreak and ultimately, courage.
Recorded in Winnipeg, Canada with multi award-winning producer, Murray Pulver, this is the band’s fourth single in 2023. The first single, Shade of the Pines, featured on Apple Music’s ‘Today’s Country’ editorial playlist, while the second, Gonna Get To You, was showcased on Baylen Leonard’s Front Porch on Absolute Country as well as on Countryline Radio
FLORENCE SOMMERVILLE
21-year-old Florence Sommerville, is a singer-songwriter from Orsett, a small Essex village, who thrives on modern country music. She’s performed to packed audiences at iconic venues in Nashville, including the iconic Bluebird Café, Commodore Grille, Maxwell House, Love & Exile, Cambria Hotel and was chosen by No Depression magazine as one of the top performers at the 2024 AMA Festival. In the UK she’s played the Maverick Festival, Latitude and Moseley Folk & Arts Festival, the Green Note, Libra Camden, and the Fiddler’s Elbow in London and supported such diverse acts as Diana Jones, Tom Robinson, Annie Keating, Track Dogs, Hannah Aldridge, the Hanging Stars, Dan Owen and many more.
Since the beginning of 2025 she has gigged regularly, performing all across the South-east, both solo and with her acclaimed band, including selling out the Brentwood Theatre twice. Prior to the release of her debut album, ENDLESS HORIZON in July, she has released three digital singles, (I’ll Be Your) Best Broken Heart, California and Broken Pieces. All three are included on the 12-track album, that perfectly captures the diversity and richness of Florence’s incredible songwriting. The CD release includes four bonus acoustic tracks, making for an incredible 16-track collection. Criss-crossing country genres the way she journeys through life, with wild abandonment, passion and intensity, the youthful independent singer-songwriter has created a uniquely sophisticated and signature manifesto, a bold indication that Florence Sommerville has at the outset of her career found her perfect stride. As ENDLESS HORIZON gloriously unfolds. Florence emerges as one of the more gifted melodists, subtly versatile singers, and liberated lyricists of her generation. Florence emotionally journeys through the upheavals we all encounter in relationships. Whether it be the tentative discovery of first love, the heartache of a breakup or the impossibility of a love that cannot be, Florence crosses that minefield with a maturity and sureness of a voice that belies her youthfulness.
Each track offers a unique perspective: the empowering defiance of (I’ll Be Your) Best Broken Heart, the nostalgic longing of Silly Little Things, and the reflective tone of Broken Pieces. Other standout tracks include the poignant Love Me Then, the stirring Forget The Water, and the vividly character-driven Molasses, which addresses the challenging subject of father-daughter mental abuse. Florence also embraces optimism in the summery anthem Cut And Run, a perfect soundtrack to the boundless possibilities of life. Guided by manager Alan Cackett and thanks to the production skills of Alan West and the superb musicianship of the gifted players, every track boasts evocative, affectionate touches. This eclectic set is awash in satisfying country music elements, yet it never feels nostalgic, mixing pleasurable sounds with a bracing dose of modern-day arrangements for a riveting listen. The result is a perfect showcase for Florence Sommerville’s unique talents, revealing a singer of effortless ease, who nails unshakable hooks as she lyrically navigates descriptive leaps and bounds. The fact that ENDLESS HORIZON also marks her debut, makes this effort all the more remarkable.
There’s a raw rootsy quality to Florence’s music that belies her youthfulness. An assured performer, she takes total command of any stage from the outset and allows her crystalline vocals to shine on her well-crafted original songs.
Profits in aid of Brightlingsea Winter Fest

Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles
2026-02-14 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £21.50.Doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm.This show is for a seated audience.
With over 4.5 million social media followers and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is the UK’s top comic magician.
Join him for an evening of ‘Tricks & Giggles’, as Pete brings his trademark blend of magic and comedy from the small screen to stages around the UK with this brand-new show. Expect impossible feats, sleight of hand and big laughs from one of magic’s most exciting performers!
As seen on Amazon’s Good Omens, ITV1’s Tonight at the London Palladium and The Next Great Magician, BBC1’s The John Bishop Show and The Sarah Millican Television Programme. He’s probably also popped up on your social media feeds with his mind-boggling and regularly viral magic videos.
‘The man from Middlesbrough sets the pace for comedy-meets-magic in the 21st century’ The Times
‘The new poster-boy for British comedy magic’ The Telegraph
‘Seamless blending of quality magic and stand-up comedy. It is a joy to watch’ Edinburgh Festivals Magazine
‘The best magic tricks in the Universe’ Independent
★★★★★ The Mirror★★★★★ Time Out★★★★ Independent★★★★ Scotsman★★★★ Metro
Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok: @petefirman
https://www.petefirman.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/petefirmanofficial

COS Love Cabaret
2026-02-14 21:00 - 22:30 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
Fresh from their vibrant musical production of Guys and Dolls, join Colchester Operatic Society for a Valentine’s Day LATES special!
Whether you’ve been out for a romantic meal with a partner, been to see a show at the theatre, or just want a great night out, this night is for you.
Come along to the Mercury Café Bar at 9pm for a love-themed cabaret evening full of song and sparkle. COS performers will serenade you with a variety of love-themed songs to live piano accompaniment as they celebrate and embrace love in all its forms through music and beautiful harmonies.
Further details and performers to be confirmed at a later date.
No tickets required – just turn up and have a good time!

Valentines Masquerade Ball
2026-02-14 21:00 - 2026-02-15 00:00 | Truth Colchester, 8 Crouch St, Colchester, CO3 3ES, GB
Tickets are currently £5 (including fees) and proceeds go to Cavernoma Alliance UK.
Open to Couples, Singles, and Galentines alike! ❤️

GOTCHA! @CODA, Colchester
2026-02-14 21:00 - 2026-02-15 00:00 | Coda Colchester, Coda Colchester
Live music on February 14th? It’s a date! Playing high-energy party hits in the way that only GOTCHA! can. Expect some Madness, Oasis, and maybe even something for the Swifties! Valentines optional ‘cos you’re gonna love the music! Free entry.

Valentines 💘 Ball
2026-02-14 21:00 - 2026-02-15 03:00 | Rubix Bar, Rubix Bar
💘 VALENTINE’S BALL @ RUBIX 💘📅 Saturday 14th February⏰ 9PM – 3AM
Whether you’re coupled up, single, or single & ready to mingle, this is THE place to be this Valentine’s Night 💃🕺
✨ Get ready for a full-on club night special with:🍾 Prosecco deals🍸 Valentine’s themed cocktails🎶 Big party anthems & dancefloor fillers all night💖 A buzzing, feel-good Valentine’s atmosphere
No awkward dinners… just great music, great drinks, and a packed dancefloor 💥Bring your date, your mates, or come make new connections – everyone’s welcome.
❤️ Dress to impress🔥 Dance till late💃 Party till 3AM
See you on the dance floor! 🪩💘
