Keep Colchester Cool

Sherlock Holmes & The Hunt for Moriarty
2026-04-21 19:30 - 2026-04-25 19:30 (Europe/London) | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
Blackeyed Theatre in association with Theatre Royal Winchester and South Hill Park presents Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for MoriartyAdapted by Nick Lane from the work of Sir Arthur Conan DoyleComposer – Tristan Parkes
“When you have one of the first brains of Europe up against you, and all the powers of darkness at his back, there are infinite possibilities.”
London, 1901. As the British Empire wages war in the name of a Queen whose health is failing, a series of mysterious events reveals a crack in the high corridors of power. A crack that threatens to destabilise monarchy, government and Empire. And at its centre, controlling the flow of information and influence, a shadowy figure plans a final deadly move.
Drawn into the game and unsure who to trust, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson find themselves confronting figures from their past in a desperate race against time, aware that the most powerful person in the world could be in the pocket of one of the most corrupt. But just how much is Holmes willing to sacrifice as he faces ‘checkmate’?
A thrilling adventure based on the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty is a world premiere that combines powerful performances, a haunting soundscape and innovative design for an exhilarating theatrical experience.
“One of the most innovative, audacious companies working in contemporary English theatre” – The Stage

Projected Digital Image League Competition - 6th Round
2026-04-21 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Appraisal by Tim Morland DPAGB ARPS
Header Image: Beach Hut Parade – Nesta James

Granny's Attic | Colchester Arts Centre
2026-04-20 20:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
TICKETS: https://colchesterartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173664190
With exceptional musicianship and boundless energy, Granny’s Attic are going from strength to strength. Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne (melodeon, anglo concertina, vocals), George Sansome (guitar, vocals) and Lewis Wood (violin, vocals) have honed their skills touring the UK and Europe since 2009. They are much loved by audiences up and down the country, with bookings everywhere from Cambridge Folk Festival to Cecil Sharp House.
The trio have been heralded for their lively performances and skilled delivery of traditional material, playing with verve, energy and their own inimitable style. Though grounded in tradition, they are keen to push new boundaries by exploring fresh approaches and writing their own compositions. In October 2021, they released The Brickfields, an instrumental collection that saw them reach new heights as both composers and performers. This was followed up in 2025 by Cold Blows the Wind, an album of largely traditional material which went down a storm with reviewers and audiences alike.
Described by KLOF Magazine as “one of the most exciting and accomplished English folk acts on the scene right now”, this outstanding trio can hold audiences in the palm of their hand.
QUOTES
“Their high-octane take on English folk has brought a whole new audience to the genre”THE IRISH TIMES
“They’re very well established now amongst the top English trad players in the country.”MARK RADCLIFFE, BBC RADIO 2
“Great tunes, great energy, great arrangements, great stuff!”JON BODEN
“Astounding”MARTIN CARTHY

Punch it chewie! Live @coda Colchester
2026-04-18 21:00 - 2026-04-19 00:00 | Coda Colchester, Coda Colchester
Such us live at coda in Colchester, playing all your favourite rock/indie/pop hits to dance the night away!

Haydn, Schubert and Rossini
2026-04-18 19:30 - 22:30 | St Botolph’s Church Walk, Colchester, CO2 7, United Kingdom, St Botolph's Church Walk, Colchester, CO2 7, United Kingdom
Rossini: Overture to the Barber of SevilleHaydn: Cello Concerto in C
Soloist: John ChillingworthSchubert: Symphony No. 9
Conductor: Chris PhelpsTickets £18, (under 25s free) call 01206 271128 or available at the door

Murder Mystery: Carry on up the Tiber
2026-04-18 19:30 - 22:00 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
Ancient Rome, 54AD, and the Emperor Claudius has issues. His third wife has been suspiciously quick to agree to a divorce, his mistress is a little too close to her ghastly son, his chief eunuch is behaving very strangely, and the Senate appear determined to thwart him at every turn … Thus begins a murderous comedy of politics, plumbing, and peanuts. Set within the dramatic surroundings of Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in Europe, this immersive event promises a night to remember.
The doors open at 7:30 PM, and the mystery unfolds at 8.15 PM. Please note that late entry will not be permitted.
Guests will be welcomed with a glass of fizz and light nibbles. A licensed bar will be open throughout the evening for additional purchases. Feel free to don roman garb or simply bring your sharpest detective instincts – you’ll need them.
This is an 18+ standing event with limited seating. Please contact the Castle in advance if you require seating during the event or have any dietary restrictions.
For more details, including the evening’s schedule, directions, and accessibility information, please see our Murder Mystery FAQs and Access at the Castle pages.
Tickets are £35 per person.

The SKBs - Live in Colchester!
2026-04-18 15:00 - 2026-04-19 23:00 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
Tickets available via www.theskb.com

80's Day Disco: Colchester 🪩
2026-04-18 15:00 - 20:00 | Trilogy Colchester, Trilogy Colchester
Tickets now on sale → https://www.fatsoma.com/e/o9qmzb67/la/fg2x
Get Ready to Groove at the Ultimate 80s Day Disco! 🎉
Step into a time machine and relive the magic of the 80s with a day filled with the biggest disco anthems and synth-powered hits of the decade. Whether you’re a true 80s fanatic or just here for the nostalgia, this party is all about electric vibes, funky beats, and non-stop dancing! 🎧🕺✨
What to Expect:
🎶 Nonstop 80s Classics: Dance to the timeless hits that defined the decade—from disco grooves to rock anthems and synth-pop bangers.
🕺 Retro Dance Floor Energy: Show off your best moves under the dazzling glow of neon lights and shimmering disco balls.
📸 Totally Rad Photo Ops: Capture the moment with throwback props, vintage backdrops, and all the 80s glam.
🌟 Feel-Good Vibes All Day Long: Celebrate the music, the energy, and the nostalgia with great people and iconic tunes.
Let’s make it a day to remember—80s style! 🎶💿✨
Expect to hear music from:
Michael Jackson ⭐ Madonna ⭐ Prince ⭐ Whitney Houston ⭐ Queen ⭐ George Michael ⭐ David Bowie ⭐ Tina Turner ⭐ Elton John ⭐ Phil Collins ⭐ Cyndi Lauper ⭐ Bon Jovi ⭐ The Police ⭐ Bruce Springsteen ⭐ Duran Duran ⭐ Journey ⭐ Billy Joel ⭐ Lionel Richie ⭐ Eurythmics ⭐ Depeche Mode ⭐ Aerosmith ⭐ U2 ⭐ The Cure ⭐ Van Halen ⭐ Hall & Oates ⭐ AC/DC ⭐ The Smiths ⭐ New Order ⭐ Fleetwood Mac ⭐ The Bangles ⭐ Rick Astley ⭐ Spandau Ballet ⭐ Roxette ⭐ Simple Minds ⭐ Guns N’ Roses ⭐ Billy Idol ⭐ Tears for Fears ⭐ Bryan Adams ⭐ A-ha
FAQ’S
🗣️ Why do the tickets come in different price tiers?
Whilst there is no physical difference. There is only a limited amount of tickets we can sell. Therefore we operate a festival style ticketing model. The earlier you buy your ticket the cheaper it will be.
🗣️ Do you do group discount? Stag/Hen etc
Yes, we offer a discounted ticket price for groups of 10 or more. These tickets can be found listed as the “Big Group Package!” above, orders for these tickets are restricted to a minimum of 10.
🗣️ Will there be more tickets available if the event is sold out?
Once this event is sold out, there will not be any additional tickets released. In addiction to this we will be unable to sell them at the door due to maximum capacity and health and safety regulations.
🗣️ Is the venue accessible?
Our events take place at a variety of locations across the UK and Ireland. As each varies please ensure to check the specific venue’s website for accessibility information.
🗣️ Can I resell my tickets?
Yes, if you are unable to attend an event you are welcome to sell your tickets on. We do not use names on tickets as a condition for entry.
🗣️ Are your events 18+?
All of our events are strictly 18+. A valid photographic ID may be requested on entry.
🗣️ I have more questions?
If you have additional questions and wish to contact us directly, don’t hesitate to drop us a DM on either Facebook (Daytime Disco) or Instagram (@daytimediscoevents)
Refund Policy:In-line with normal consumer standards for ticket purchases, tickets for Daytime Disco events are non-refundable, on the condition that we not moved the event or canceled it. If you are no longer be able to attend the event, you are of course welcome to gift or sell your tickets onwards as we do not use names on the tickets as a condition of entry.

Bob Keeley at Junction 25 LDC
2026-04-17 20:00 - 22:30 | Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Rd, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ, GB
Join us for a night of line dancing to live music.£8 entryDoors open 7:15pm for 8pmNo bar so bring your own.Tea and coffee available.
Contact Trish on 07815 125261 to book a place

MAIDEN ANGLIA – A Tribute to IRON MAIDEN
2026-04-17 19:30 - 22:30 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
TWM Live Presents: MAIDEN ANGLIA – A Tribute to IRON MAIDENFriday 17th April, Doors 7:30pmThree Wise Monkeys, ColchesterReturning to Three Wise Monkeys Colchester Maiden Anglia will be bringing you an extended set of classic Maiden to start your weekend off the right way!Doors open at 7:30 PM, with tickets priced at just £12 plus booking fee.Please note that access to the top floor of Three Wise Monkeys does not have a lift, but there are rest opportunities between each flight of stairs.Viewer discretion is advised: This show may potentially contain flashing and strobing lighting effects.We wanted to inform you of our refund policy regarding event tickets. Please note that we will be unable to process any ticket refunds within 7 days of the event.We understand that circumstances may arise that prevent you from attending the event, but unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate refund requests within this timeframe.

Arrival - The Hits Of Abba
2026-04-17 19:30 - 22:15 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
50 years since ABBA’s iconic ‘Arrival’ album first lit up the charts, the multi-award-winning show that shares the same name, Arrival – The Hits of ABBA, is back with a brand-new production!
This year, the show is more immersive than ever. Alongside even more songs from the landmark ‘Arrival’ album and the addition of interactive video projection, you can sing along to the lyrics on screen at the top of your lungs and become part of the performance!
With sensational vocals, expert musicianship, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking visuals, Arrival – The Hits of ABBA takes you on an unforgettable journey through the timeless music that changed pop history. From the Eurovision-winning ‘Waterloo’ to infectious disco anthems like ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!’, ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Voulez-Vous’, and ‘Fernando’, every song will have you dancing in the aisles and singing along with pure joy and nostalgia!
Whether you’ve been a fan since day one or are discovering their magic for the first time, this is the ultimate celebration of a legendary band and the ‘Arrival’ album that helped define an era.

Breathing beat
2026-04-17 19:00 - 21:30 | Firstsite Colchester, Firstsite Colchester
Hold onto what you love — the rhythm that moves you, the melody that heals you, the dance that sets you free. When words fail, let the music speak and your body answer ���
Come and join us at our next Breathing Beat on April 17th
www.liquidspiritlondon.com �
#breathrave #housemusiclovers #somabreath #highownsupply #breathandbeats

Three Men in a Boat
2026-04-16 19:45 - 21:30 | Headgate Theatre, Headgate Theatre
A fresh adaptation of the classic comic tale. Join Walsall’s very own Jerome K. Jerome as he recounts his quixotic journey along the River Thames with his friends Harris and George (not forgetting Montmorency the dog!).As funny now as it was all those years ago. Jonathan Goodwin portrays Jerome K Jerome in a show scripted by himself.

Colchester Arts Centre - Colchester
2026-04-16 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
A Celebration Of The Music Of Coldplay; capturing the energy and sound of one of the biggest bands in the world.
This immersive and fun driven show features Xylobands, lasers, back projection, confetti, and all of the biggest hits from Yellow, Hymn For The Weekend, to A Viva La Vida and Paradise.

Drone Photography & Videography - Talk By Paul Smith DPAGB, AWPF, LSINWP BPE5*
2026-04-14 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Join us for an exciting and informative session with Paul Smith, an accomplished photographer and drone enthusiast. In this talk, Paul offers a comprehensive overview of drone photography, starting with a clear explanation of the rules and regulations every drone operator needs to know to fly safely and legally. Paul will also provide an insider’s look at the essential gear used in dronephotography, sharing tips on choosing the right equipment for capturing stunning aerial images. The highlight of the evening is a visual journey across the country, showcasing breathtaking drone shots and the techniques used to create them.
(Visitors £5.00) pdsdigital.co.uk
Image: Top Down Trebarwith Strand

South African Wine & Food Taster Evening
2026-04-14 19:00 - 22:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Join us on Tuesday 14th April for our South African Wine & Food Pairing Evening. Enjoy as we take you through four-courses of seasonally inspired food and wine at Three Wise Monkeys – in collaboration with independent and local wine merchants and suppliers, Street Wines.Hosted by Charlie Rogers and Founder of Street Wines, Neils Dubro. Together, they will draw on their knowledge and experience, taking you on a journey of the world through wine, investigating the new and old worlds of wine and discussing what it is that makes food and wine work so well together.Our South African Wine & Food Pairing Evening begins at 7pm on our restaurant floorTickets are priced at £40. The wines tasted will be available to purchase and take home on the nightOver 18s only.Guests with specific dietary requirements or with allergies should contact the team via info@twmcolchester.com prior to ticket purchase.Access – There is no lift to access the restaurant floor of Three Wise Monkeys. There are two flights of stairs to reach the restaurant floor.

The Mayor of Colchester’s Variety Show 2026
2026-04-12 19:30 - 22:00 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
The Mayor of Colchester’s Variety Show 2026
Starring celebrity magician and Vice President of the Magic Circle, Michael J. Fitch, The Mayor’s Variety Show will bring together some of the most talented performers in Colchester, to compete for a top prize, chosen by the Mayor.
Performances will include artists of all ages, including Colchester’s Comedian of the Year, some of the best young bands in Colchester (previous performers from Battle of the Bands), DJs, poets, dancers, parkour artists, choirs, singers, filmmakers and acting performers – including new theatrical work about the life of Shuff and Byng, which was featured in the press recently.
The acts will include a Semi-finalists from Britain’s Got Talent and one singer who had a hit record in the charts.
The event will raise funds for the Mayor’s charities. Click here to find more about the charities.

Showing on:

Sun 12 Apr 2026

Duration: Approx. 2hr 40mins, incl interval

Price:
£20.50 – £37.50 (inc. £2.50 ticket levy)

Genre:
Variety

Venue:
Mercury Theatre

Age Guidance:
12+

Warnings:
Contains haze and flashing lights.

Content to Consider
The age rating for this show is 12+.
This show contains the use of haze and flashing lights.
VIP Tickets
Grab yourself a VIP tickets to secure the best seats in the centre of the auditorium plus a post-show meet and greet in our Upstairs Bar.
Group Bookings
Booking for a group? If you book 10 or more tickets at the same time, you’ll receive 20% off!

Colchester Jazz Club (Essex)
2026-04-12 19:30 - 22:00 | Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Rd, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ, GB
2 x 60 min sets @ Marks Tey Parish Hall. www.colchesterjazzclub.co.uk

Jo Harman @ The Music Mix: ". . . an incredibly believable and soulful singer." - Echoes
2026-04-12 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, Colchester, CO7 9AB, GB
In the age of beige, when the norm is to suppress the spirit in a deluge of conservatism and political correctness, it is a raw and heart-warming sight to witness, but Jo Harman can convey a song so soulfully that it elicits such an overtly emotional response.
​An artist who sings straight from the heart, with pure, unadulterated soulfulness and sincerity devoid of any histrionics, Jo was proclaimed “the UK’s finest female soul blues voice” by The Daily Mirror, while Classic Rock & Blues said, “She writes lip-biting, beautiful songs.”
​For this intimate, stripped-back trio show, performed exclusively for The Music Mix, Jo is accompanied by two world-class musicians in Emily Francis (Toyah Willcox, Andrea Bocelli, Rumer, Alexandra Burke) and Nat Martin (Robert Fripp, Galliano, Thomas Dolby).
​It has been a decade since Jo travelled to Nashville to record her most recent body of original work, the highly acclaimed People We Become, featuring Michael McDonald (whose other duet partners number Aretha Franklin, Carly Simon, and Patti LaBelle), yet her reputation and standing have only continued to grow in the years since, confirmed by her 2025 Female Vocalist of the Year nomination by Soul Tracks.
Even a global pandemic and the arrival of motherhood have done little to slow Jo’s momentum, and in a crowded music landscape, industry and audiences alike increasingly recognise her as a UK artist of rare authenticity, depth, and skill.
​During this period, Jo has felt a renewed pull towards Black American music of the late 1960s and early 1970s – songs that offered powerful commentary on social injustice. More than half a century on, their themes resonate strongly with her own concerns about society in today’s troubled times.
​This has led Jo to record her own interpretations of Donny Hathaway’s Someday We’ll All Be Free, then Andy Grammer’s Don’t Give Up On Me, and now the Ralph MacDonald/William Salter composition Trade Winds – a song whose message she feels profoundly – which completes this trilogy of 70s soul classics, each chosen for lyrics that speak directly to her deeply held reflections on the present day.
​All of this comes ahead of plans to finally release new original material from 2026 onwards, which may – at last – develop into the long-awaited third album.
​Jo Harman (Vocals)Emily Francis (Keys)Nat Martin (Guitar)​

Jo Harman: ". . . an incredibly believable and soulful singer."- Echoes
2026-04-12 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, CO7 9AB Wivenhoe, United Kingdom, Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, CO7 9AB Wivenhoe, United Kingdom
​An artist who sings straight from the heart, with pure, unadulterated soulfulness and sincerity devoid of any histrionics, Jo Harman was proclaimed “the UK’s finest female soul blues voice” by The Daily Mirror, while Classic Rock & Blues said, “She writes lip-biting, beautiful songs.”
​It has been a decade since Jo travelled to Nashville to record her most recent body of original work, the highly acclaimed People We Become, featuring Michael McDonald (whose other duet partners number Aretha Franklin, Carly Simon, and Patti LaBelle), yet her reputation and standing have only continued to grow in the years since, confirmed by her 2025 Female Vocalist of the Year nomination by Soul Tracks.
Even a global pandemic and the arrival of motherhood have done little to slow Jo’s momentum, and in a crowded music landscape, industry and audiences alike increasingly recognise her as a UK artist of rare authenticity, depth, and skill.
​During this period, Jo has felt a renewed pull towards Black American music of the late 1960s and early 1970s – songs that offered powerful commentary on social injustice. More than half a century on, their themes resonate strongly with her own concerns about society in today’s troubled times.
​This has led Jo to record her own interpretations of Donny Hathaway’s Someday We’ll All Be Free, then Andy Grammer’s Don’t Give Up On Me, and now the Ralph MacDonald/William Salter composition Trade Winds – a song whose message she feels profoundly – which completes this trilogy of 70s soul classics, each chosen for lyrics that speak directly to her deeply held reflections on the present day.
​All of this comes ahead of plans to finally release new original material from 2026 onwards, which may – at last – develop into the long-awaited third album.
​For this intimate, stripped-back trio show, performed exclusively for The Music Mix, Jo is accompanied by two world-class musicians in Emily Francis (Toyah Willcox, Andrea Bocelli, Rumer, Alexandra Burke) and Nat Martin (Robert Fripp, Galliano, Thomas Dolby).
​​Jo Harman (Vocals)Emily Francis (Keys)Nat Martin (Guitar)​

Sundays on the Square
2026-04-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Colchester
Sundays on the Square returns on Sunday 12th April 2026!
Keep the spring Sundays alive with Sundays on the Square in the newly built St Nicholas Square, featuring live music throughout the afternoon.
Enjoy a mix of independent local traders offering street food, drinks, crafts, gifts, and locally made products, all while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere created by live performances. Music will set the tone for a relaxed, fun Sunday in the heart of the city.
Sundays on the Square is free to attend, family-friendly, and open to everyone — a perfect way to support local talent and traders while enjoying a lively city-centre experience.
📅 Date: Sunday 12th April 2026📍 Location: St Nicholas Square🎟 Entry: Free🎶 Live music throughout the afternoon | Local traders | Community vibes
Come along and enjoy another Sunday of music, food, and local culture!

Colchester Arts Centre
2026-04-11 20:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
Dire Streets bring to life the classic songs of one of the world’s greatest guitar bands with a level of musicianship and attention to detail that makes them the stand out Dire Straits tribute in the UK.
The two-hour theatre show includes faithful renditions of classic studio tracks along with extended live versions from some of the legendary Dire Straits concerts.
For the best part of a decade, Dire Streets have performed Dire Straits’ incredible back catalogue to thousands of theatre-goers across the UK.
No other Dire Streets tribute act comes as close to reproducing Mark Knopfler’s distinctive guitar and vocal tones – making Dire Streets as near to the original band as you can see live.
The six-piece band is made up of some of the country’s top tribute musicians and delivers a stunning show that fulfils their mission of doing justice to one of the most original and talented bands the UK has ever produced.

Raver Tots Colchester with Matt Jam Lamont
2026-04-11 15:00 - 18:00 | Trilogy Colchester, Trilogy Colchester
Raver Tots is coming to Colchester!
BOOK NOW – https://link.dice.fm/ea30963af0d1
WITH SPECIAL GUEST – MATT JAM LAMONT
Raver Tots is the Ultimate Family Dance Party Suitable for ALL AGES!
Get the kids active at the UK’s number one award winning, family friendly rave event, playing the best in House, Garage, Drum and Bass and Old Skool Club Classics!
What to Expect:
– The UK’s biggest names in dance music
– Huge production show
– Full decor and theming
– Dancers and performers
– Special effects show
– Lasers and light show
– Licensed bar
– Face painting
Remember, all ages are welcome – your kids are never too young or too old! We have children of all ages attending. It’s all about spending time with your family, hearing the best dance music of all time, and making memories with the people you love.
All events sell out in advance, so please book early to avoid disappointment. NO TICKETS ON THE DOOR!
TERMS AND INFO:
• Babies under 18 months are free of charge and do not require a ticket. All other children require a kids ticket.
• Buggies should not be taken onto the dance floor in case of tripping. They will need to be parked in the buggy park area which is sometimes situated outside, slings or baby carriers are recommended.
• All children under 12 require kids tickets, children 12 and over require adult tickets.
• Strictly no adults admitted without a child (maximum of 4 adults to 1 child).
• Please note parents remain responsible for children at all times. Children must remain under adult supervision and we kindly request no running.
• Tickets are non-refundable and can only be re-sold through our trusted partners at Tixel
• Music is kept at safe levels at all times in line with our risk assessment guidelines. Please note it is still loud so bring ear defenders if you wish.
• Expect full club lighting in a festival style environment.
• By attending you give permission for Raver Tots to take photos and videos of the event for the use of press. If you see a photo you wish to have these taken down please contact us via our Facebook page.
• No external food or drink is permitted on site
• PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN INDOOR EVENT.
• Venues vary considerably in shape and size so may differ slightly from video footage dependant on the space available
• Allergy advice, we use latex balloons in the production
• Strobe lighting may be used in the venue

Beginners Embroidery Workshop
2026-04-11 14:00 - 17:00 | Colcheco, Colcheco
Join us for a creative Beginners Embroidery Workshop on Saturday 11th April, 2pm – 4pm £25PP held at the workroom next to Colcheco.
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming beginners embroidery workshop, perfect if you’ve always wanted to try embroidery but didn’t know where to start. This creative session will gently guide you through the basics, step by step.
You will learn how to stretch fabric onto an embroidery hoopA selection of essential stitches, knots, and techniquesTips for neat, confident hand stitching
No experience is needed at all – this workshop is designed specifically for beginners and is a lovely way to enjoy some mindful, creative time.
The workshop takes place in the workroom next to Colcheco on Layer Road. Toilet facilities are available within the Colcheco shop.
All materials, tools and expert tuition
Tea, coffee and slice of cake available
Spaces are limited, so booking is essential. Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of stitching, learning, and creativity.
Book your tickets here: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/beginners-embroidery-workshop

MODEZ OF VIBRATION PRESENTS MOVING FUSION
2026-04-11 12:00 - 2026-04-12 04:00 | Baba’s Bar, Baba's Bar
MODEZ OF VIBRATION PRESENTS MOVING FUSIONDOING A 2 HOUR OLD SKOOL SET from the Days of Vinyl11.30 till 1.30DJS MOVING FUSION, SPA FUNK QUEENIE CHINGordon B Blockzie Gallier Riley V, Tee GS Ar’V JBoy
MCs Scotfree
This isa set you don’t want to miss if you like your OLD SKOOL DnB and JUNGLE we have 2 Hours for you, from MOVING FUSION from Ram Records

Arm knitting workshop
2026-04-11 10:00 - 13:00 | Colcheco, Colcheco
Join us for a creative and inspiring Arm Knitting Workshop on Saturday 11th April,10.30am – 1pm, held at the workroom next to Colcheco.
Join us for a relaxed and friendly Arm Knitting Workshop where you’ll learn how to create a chunky knitted scarf or cowl using nothing but your arms.
This hands-on workshop is perfect for beginners – no knitting experience required. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the process, learning how to cast on, knit, and cast off using soft, chunky yarn to create a finished piece you’ll be proud to wear or gift.
All materials, tools, and guidance are provided, along with hot beverages and sweet treats to enjoy while you craft. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and ideal for a mindful morning of creativity.
£27.50pp including hot beverages & sweet treats
Book your tickets here: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/arm-knitting-workshop

dean frost full band headline
2026-04-10 19:30 - 23:00 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
EP release show with full band‘two minds’ EP out 10/4 featuring 6 tracksCD with additional live versions will be available at the shows toosupport from les joy and kitty perrinDoors 730£10 adv / £12 otd

After Hours Castle Guided Tour
2026-04-10 17:30 - 18:15 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
Step inside Colchester Castle after hours on 10 April 2026 for an evening of history brought to life.
Explore hidden corners, Roman foundations and the iconic Great Stairs as your expert guide leads you through centuries of conquest, triumph and transformation. With exclusive access, this is your chance to experience the Castle as few ever do. Tours run from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM and from 6:45 PM to 7:30 PM.
This event is suitable for ages 10+. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to uncover the secrets of one of the region’s most remarkable historic sites.
Our tour will go through areas with uneven flooring, low archways and uneven stairs with no lift access. For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information.
Tickets cost £15 per person.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2093473578091760/?event_time_id=2093473588091759

The Talented Mr Ripley
2026-04-07 19:30 - 2026-04-11 19:30 | Balkerne Gate, CO1 1PT Colchester, United Kingdom, Balkerne Gate, CO1 1PT Colchester, United Kingdom
“I never wanted to murder anyone. It was necessary.”
Step into a world of deception, desire, and deadly ambition. How far would you go to become someone else?
Tom Ripley is a nobody—scraping by in New York, forging signatures, telling little white lies—until a chance encounter changes everything. When a wealthy stranger offers him an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy to bring home his wayward son, Dickie Greenleaf, Tom leaps at the opportunity.
But in the sun-drenched glamour of 1950s Italy, surrounded by shimmering waters and whispered secrets, Tom is seduced by the life Dickie leads—the freedom, the wealth, the effortless charm. Fascination turns to obsession, and as his grip tightens on Dickie’s world, the lines between truth and deception begin to blur. What starts as an innocent opportunity spirals into a chilling game of lies, identity theft, and murder.
The ten-strong ensemble cast is led by Ed McVey as Tom Ripley. Ed was one of the stars of the hit Netflix show The Crown. EastEnders regular and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Maisie Smith will star alongside him as Marge. This electrifying new stage adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley brings Patricia Highsmith’s iconic psychological thriller, which inspired the acclaimed movie and Netflix series of the same name, to life like never before. With razor-sharp dialogue, simmering tension, and a dangerously charismatic antihero, this gripping production will pull you into Ripley’s intoxicating world—where nothing is quite as it seems.

The Crazy World of Arthur Brown + Valhallans
2026-04-07 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £26.50.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
Arthur Brown is synonymous with his 1968 hit “Fire” and the Hammond-driven “Crazy World” line-up which spawned it. However, his ‘God of Hellfire’ burned out fast and, in 1970, he returned with a new project: the prog-festival freak-show Kingdom Come followed by a varied solo career. Those initial four band albums, by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown and by Kingdom Come are thrilling, as tend to be Brown’s cameos on other peoples’ projects.
Best known for his flamboyant theatrical performances and his powerful, wide- ranging operatic voice. He has been a major influence on a wide range of musicians due to his outstanding vocal ability and wild stage persona and concepts. He is considered a pioneer of shock rock and progressive rock and influential on heavy metal music.
He associated with Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Frank Zappa, Hawkwind, Klaus Schultze and Alice Cooper and made a cameo appearance in the cult film “The Committee” and also “Tommy”. His countless collaborations include The Alan Parsons Project, The Stranglers and The Prodigy.
His best-known single “Fire” hit number 1 in the UK singles chart and Canada, and a number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The album “The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown” had top ten success on both sides of the Atlantic. Following “Fire”, the press would often refer to Brown as “The God of Hellfire”, in reference to the opening shouted line of the song.
Arthur shows no signs of stopping or slowing down and continues to record and release hugely inspiring music, including his most recent release “Long, Long Road” (2022) and the launch of his new multi-media show “A Human Perspective”.
https://www.thegodofhellfire.com/
Support from Valhallans – Colchester’s very own purveyors of improvised Space Swamp (apparently). No idea what Space Swamp is? Here’s a link:
https://valhallans.bandcamp.com/
