Author Talk: Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the Egg talking about his new book MAIN CHARACTERS
2026-07-09 19:00 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | 125 High Street, CO1 1SZ Colchester, United Kingdom, 125 High Street, CO1 1SZ Colchester, United Kingdom
Thursday 9th July 2026, 6pm in person event at Red Lion Books (finished by 7-7.30pm)
Meet the Main Characters: Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the Egg talks about his new book ‘Main Characters’ with author Kate Sawyer
Clara and Seb are about to fall in love.They don’t know it yet.But everybody else does.
When Clara and Seb meet in a quiet corner of London, it’s the start of something. She wants to be a Director. He’s an actor, unsure what he wants from life. Their connection is magnetic. Everyone can see that falling in love looks something like this. But when Clara casts Seb in the film that will make her name, what should be the happiest time of their lives ends with a gut-wrenching betrayal.
Some love stories are bigger than just two people. This one is told through the eyes of friends, flatmates, exes and strangers who see all the sides of Seb and Clara, from their first date to the moment they fell apart. Everyone has their version of events. But only Clara and Seb can decide how their story ends…This is a love story, told by everyone but the main characters.
‘Unique, tender and funny’ Pandora Sykes
Bobby Palmer is both an author and journalist. His critically acclaimed debut novel, Isaac and the Egg, was a Waterstones Paperback of the Year in 2022; his second novel Small Hours was published in 2024. Bobby co- hosts the podcast Book Chat with Pandora Sykes and his writing has appeared in GQ, Esquire, Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan amongst others.
Kate Sawyeris the author of three novels: Getting Away, Waterstones Fiction Book of The Month, This Family, and her debut novel, The Stranding, which was shortlisted for the Costa First Novel Award, won the East Anglian fiction prize, was adapted for BBC Radio 4 Book at Bedtime

Classic Horror Nights: Torture Garden
2026-07-09 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £6.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This event is for a seated audience.
Monthly nights of retro horror screenings from the mainly Brit school of Hammer, Amicus etc.
Presented by Classic Horror buff and local musician Jason Frederick.
Popcorn, a monthly themed cocktail, plenty of dry ice and often very daft over-blown intros. Join us!
Torture Garden
Amicus Anthology Film – with Burgess Meredith, Jack Palance and Peter Cushing.
Four short horror stories about people who visit Dr. Diabolo’s fairground haunted-house attraction show.

Filthy Keg 2026
2026-07-10 14:00 - 2026-07-12 22:00 | 10 North Station Rd, Colchester
Our annual homage to all things keg and can!!
Full details to be released over the next few months.

The Ibiza Orchestra Experience: The Final Encore - Colchester 2026
2026-07-10 17:30 - 22:30 | Lower castle Park, Colchester, United Kingdom, Lower castle Park, Colchester, United Kingdom
The Ibiza Orchestra Experience: The Final Encore comes to Lower Castle Park, Colchester on Friday 10 July.
The touring show returns for what organisers describe as its final performance, bringing together a 26-piece orchestra and a lineup featuring Artful Dodger, Baby D, Ian Van Dahl, N-Trance, Phats & Small and Ultrabeat.
The event celebrates classic dance music associated with Ibiza and the club scene of the 1990s and 2000s, with orchestral arrangements of well-known tracks alongside live performances from some of the era’s biggest names.
Alongside the main stage, organisers are promising a silent disco, a new 90s Dance Tent, and a range of festival-style entertainment and production.
The event is for over-18s only. Gates open in the evening. Tickets are available from the event organisers.

Shalamar Live at Charter Hall | July 10th
2026-07-10 18:30 - 21:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Join SHALAMAR & GWEN DICKEY (ROSE ROYCE) on July 10th at Charter Hall in Colchester as they celebrate their golden anniversary with shows across the UK, Europe, USA and Africa. With 18 top seventy five UK hits, 11 top forty, 4 top ten chart smashing singles and over 25 million records sold world-wide, the group are one of the most successful soul acts of all time.
Tickets available from https://colchester-events.co.uk/event/shalamar/
Their live shows are a feast of nonstop anthemic tunes — from “A Night To Remember” and “Take That to the Bank” to “There It Is”, “The Second Time Around”, “Make That Move”, “Dead Giveaway”, “Dancin’ In The Sheets”, “Over and Over”, “Friends”, and more. Audiences are being asked to join in the celebration by wearing black or white, enhanced with a golden touch. Meet & Greet packages are available.
Special guest on selected UK theatre dates will be Gwen Dickey – the Voice of Rose Royce (“Car Wash”, “Is It Love You’re After”, “Wishing On A Star”, I’m Going Down”.)
@followers Essex Live Essex Gig Guide Colchester Gazette Essex County Music Soultasia Senbla Live Events

Final Reason & TWM live presents Burial Code, The Winonas, Mob Handed, Toil, Gurn Victim
2026-07-10 19:00 - 22:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Final Reason and Three Wise Monkeys Live present a multi-band bill featuring Gurn Victim, Mob Handed, Toil, The Winonas and Burial Code at Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester.
The lineup brings together five bands from the heavier end of the alternative music spectrum for an evening of live music in the venue’s top-floor performance space. Audiences can expect a mix of heavy riffs, energetic performances and original material from a range of emerging acts.
Doors open at 7pm on Friday 10 July.
Tickets are £7 plus booking fee. The event is for ages 18 and over.

Shalamar: The Gold Tour - A Fifty Year Celebration
2026-07-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Sale Dates and Times:
Public Onsale : Fri, 30 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM
Priority from O2 : Wed, 28 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM
Artist Presale : Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM
Ticketmaster Presale : Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM

Shalamar: The Gold Tour - A Fifty Year Celebration
2026-07-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Sale Dates and Times:Public Onsale : Fri, 30 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AMPriority from O2 : Wed, 28 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AMArtist Presale : Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AMTicketmaster Presale : Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 10:00 AM

Candle Making Workshop
2026-07-11 10:30 - 13:30 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
Join us for a cosy and creative Candle Making Workshop, perfect for anyone looking to unwind and make something special.
During this hands-on session, you’ll be guided step-by-step through the candle making process. You’ll learn about wax, fragrance, and pouring techniques, before creating your own candle to take home. With a selection of scents available, you can personalise your candle to suit your style or create a thoughtful handmade gift.
This workshop is suitable for beginners, with no prior experience needed. All materials, equipment, and tuition are included, so you can simply turn up and enjoy the process.
Tickets include your choice of refreshments:
£29.50pp including a hot drink & cake
£39.50pp including Lunch – Chicken schnitzel & fries, Beer battered fish, chips & peas, or Greek Salad with feta & olives, focaccia bread
£42.50pp including Afternoon Tea
Held in the warm and welcoming surroundings of The Lexden Crown, this workshop is a lovely way to spend the day with friends, family, or simply for a little creative time to yourself.
Spaces are limited early booking recommended.
Book here: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/candle-making-workshop-3

Sausage and Cider Festival - Colchester 2026
2026-07-11 12:00 - 22:00 | Castle Park, Colchester, Castle Park, Colchester
Sausage and Cider Festival returns to Lower Castle Park, Colchester, on Saturday 11 July.
Headlining this year’s event is broadcaster Chris Moyles, bringing the final UK tour of Barrioke to Colchester. The bill also includes Big John from BOSH! and a DJ set from Pat Sharp’s Funhouse.
Live entertainment throughout the day features tribute acts celebrating the music of Queen, Kaiser Chiefs, Kasabian, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mumford & Sons and UB40.
Away from the stage, visitors can explore more than 30 ciders and over 20 varieties of sausage, alongside a silent disco, axe throwing, a festival market and family-friendly activities.
The event takes place at Lower Castle Park and forms part of a weekend of festival events, alongside The Ibiza Orchestra Experience on Friday and Summer in Nashville on Sunday.

www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/colchester

Giant Crepe Rose Workshop
2026-07-11 13:30 - 16:30 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
Join us at The Lexden Crown for a creative and relaxing afternoon making your own giant crepe paper rose – a beautiful statement piece perfect for your home décor.
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with crafting experience. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the process of shaping, layering, and constructing crepe paper petals to create a large, eye-catching rose to take home. There will be a range of colours available so you can personalise your design to suit your style.
All materials and tools are provided, so you can simply turn up and enjoy the experience. As always, our workshops are designed to be friendly, welcoming, and a chance to unwind while learning something new.
Tickets include your choice of refreshments:
£32.50pp including a hot drink & cake
£42.50pp including Lunch – Chicken schnitzel & fries, Beer battered fish, chips & peas, or Greek Salad with feta & olives, focaccia bread
Held in the warm and welcoming surroundings of The Lexden Crown, this workshop is a lovely way to spend the day with friends, family, or simply for a little creative time to yourself.
Spaces are limited, so booking in advance is recommended.BOOK HERE: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/giant-crepe-rose-workshop

Constable and the Countryside
2026-07-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Dedham Parish Church, Dedham Parish Church
A fascinating evening of words and music in beautiful Dedham Church.
Talks by Susan Owens, Emma Roodhouse and Jules Pretty will focus on Constable and his connection with the Dedham Vale countryside, and on that landscape today. Proceeds from the event will support the Eco-Church initiative at Dedham Parish Church.
The programme includes organ music and a cello performance in honour of Constable’s love of the cello.
Refreshments available.

Charity Quiz Night
2026-07-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Dice & A Slice, 37 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PQ, GB
Come and test your knowledge and raise money for a great cause at our Charity Quiz Night!
Raising money for Odyssey –Prizes to be won and a Raffle!
£3 a head – Max team of 6!
Sign up at the link below!
https://forms.gle/N4EJVhiJaD26iSy99
What is Odyssey?Odyssey supports people living with and beyond cancer at a point where support often falls away. When treatment ends, or becomes ongoing, many people are left feeling disconnected from themselves, unsure of what comes next.https://www.odyssey.org.uk/

Back to '06: 20th Anniversary Promotion Dinner
2026-07-11 19:00 - 22:00 | JobServe Community Stadium, United Way, CO4 5UP Colchester, United Kingdom, JobServe Community Stadium, United Way, CO4 5UP Colchester, United Kingdom
Colchester United supporters are invited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the club’s promotion to the Championship with a special promotion dinner at the JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday 11 July.
The event will bring together former players from the promotion-winning squad for an evening of memories, stories and discussion, reflecting on one of the most significant moments in the club’s history.
Guests can enjoy a two-course meal alongside special appearances, live Q&A sessions, entertainment, memorabilia and photo opportunities with members of the squad that secured promotion in 2006.
The evening offers supporters the chance to revisit a landmark season and share memories with fellow U’s fans.
Tickets are £35 and include a two-course meal.
Parking is available free of charge. Visitors should validate their vehicle registration on arrival if parking for longer than 10 minutes.

Blabba
2026-07-11 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £15 / £12 concessions.Doors 7:30pm, Show 8pmThis show is seated but with room to dance.
Introducing the unmissable, exclusive Colchester premiere of BLABBA – featuring local singer, ChiChi Armstrong and our very own Associate Director, Vijay Patel.
Dance the night away to the greatest hits of ABBA and a selection of some of the best soul music. Whether you’re a fan of ABBA or soul music (or both!), there is something for everyone in this one-of-a-kind concert by two established local singers.
On moving to London from her hometown in Colchester, ChiChi became a member of the well-established London Community Gospel Choir for a number of years where as a Christian, she travelled nationwide and worldwide performing at events such as ‘Live 8’ in 2005 for Madonna. She has sung with Boney M, Sam Moore, Blur plus many more and has performed in countries such as Ghana, Morocco, Austria, Germany, France, Greece, to name but a few, ministering and touching the lives of others through song.
ChiChi was also the Whoopi Goldberg of Colchester when she played the leading role in Sister Act at Colchesters Mercury Theatre.
Vijay Patel has toured the country with theatre shows such as Pull the Trigger, Sometimes I Leave and more recently Brotherly, Otherly, Disorderly – a neurodivergent pop concert. He is the Associate Director at CAC and now focuses on singing alongside that role – most recently performing at the CAC Freedom Road Street Party in August 2025. He is a trained accessibility coordinator working across Theatre and TV industries.

Young Soloists Concert
2026-07-11 19:30 - 22:00 | St Botolphs Church, Colchester, GB
Join us for an inspiring evening of music as two exceptional local young talents take centre stage. Pianist, Bethany Reynolds, will be playing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17, a work full of charm, wit, and lyrical beauty. Trumpeter, Oliver Toms, presents Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto, a brilliant showcase of virtuosity and flair that remains one of the most beloved concertos in the repertoire.
The evening will include Dvořák’s magnificent Symphony No. 9 – a powerful fusion of Czech folk influences and sweeping American landscapes, filled with unforgettable melodies and emotional depth.
This concert is a celebration of youthful talent and timeless masterpieces.
Sponsored by the Hervey Benham Charitable Trust.
Programme
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 17 (soloist, Bethany Reynolds)Haydn: Trumpet Concerto (soloist, Oliver Toms)Dvořák: Symphony No. 9Rossini: Barber of Seville
Tickets on sale until 12:00pm on Saturday, 11 July 2026. Tickets available on the door from 7:00pm (subject to availability).

Summer In Nashville - Colchester 2026
2026-07-12 12:00 - 20:00 | Castle Park, Colchester, Castle Park, Colchester
Summer In Nashville returns to Lower Castle Park, Colchester, on Sunday 12 July.
The country music festival features a headline performance from One Night In Nashville, alongside tribute acts celebrating the music of Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen and Dolly Parton.
The line-up also includes Countryoke, Robbie McMinn, Stella Lain, Georgia Nevada, Fin Pearson, Lucy Blu, Ollie Hawkins and DJ Chris Armstrong.
Alongside the live music, visitors can enjoy line dancing, American barbecue and street food, a rodeo bull and axe throwing.
The event takes place at Lower Castle Park and rounds off a weekend of festival events following The Ibiza Orchestra Experience on Friday and Sausage and Cider Festival on Saturday.
Tickets and further information are available at www.summerinnashville.com/colchester.

Hermit Fundraiser
2026-07-12 13:30 - 16:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £10Doors open 1.30pm, Show starts 2pmThis event is for a standing audience.
Come and show your support for the talented young members of the Hermit Music Club as they take the stage!
Enjoy a lively mix of rock and pop performances, all while helping to raise vital funds for Hermit CIC, supporting young people through music.

Mixed Frequencies IV
2026-07-13 18:00 - 21:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
All Tickets £5.Doors open 6pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
Colchester Arts Centre’s Youth Board are back with their highly popular Mixed Frequencies event – featuring a range of genres from some of the most exciting, local young bands.
Mixed Frequencies is led by young people for young people.
We sold out last time – so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment!
Line up TBC – keep an eye out for updates!
Merch for sale:
T shirts – £10Posters – £5 (free if bought with a t shirt!)
As we are a cashless venue, we can only accept card payments on any merchandise.
Bag policy: We request that customers do not bring large bags or rucksacks with them. Bags must be no larger than A4 in size (210x297mm) and only one bag per person is allowed. Please plan your visit with this in mind.

Mercury Sessions – Paines Plough: How to Find A Producer
2026-07-14 17:00 - 18:30 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
The Mercury Sessions – Paines Plough: How to find a producer with Ellie Fitz-Gerald (Senior Producer, Paines Plough)
Date: Tue 14 Jul 2026 at 5pmLocation: Mercury Theatre, Upstairs Bar
The Mercury Sessions are monthly, business-focused conversations for creatives, offering practical insight, sector knowledge, and the chance to connect with peers.
Finding the right producer can transform a creative business, and Ellie Fitz-Gerald will talk through how to make that connection happen. She’ll offer a clear look at what producers are seeking, how to approach them, and how to build partnerships that last. The session includes a Q&A and relaxed networking, plus a complimentary drink.

North vs South America Wine & Food Taster Evening
2026-07-14 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 July for our North vs South America 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 North vs South America Wine & Food Pairing Evening begins at 7pm on our restaurant floor
Tickets are priced at £40. The wines tasted will be available to purchase and take home on the night
Over 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.

David O'Doherty and Friends
2026-07-15 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £30.50Doors Open 7.30pm, Start 8pm.This show is for a seated audience.
Legendary award-winning comedian David O’Doherty is here for a special extended headline set! David has just completed touring his newest show Tiny Piano Man across The UK to sell out crowds and criticial acclaim.
A TV regular, David’s television appearances include Live At The Apollo, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Would I Lie To You?, Celebrity Mastermind, Richard Osman’s House of Games, The Great Celebrity Bake Off and The Alternative Comedy Experience.
He has hosted Never Mind The Buzzcocks and made appearances on shows such as QI, Dave’s One Night Stand and Have I Got News For You.
David will be supported by two fantastic comedians on the night – names announced soon! (Please note that these supporting acts are subject to change)
“A masterclass.” Irish Times“Rarely a moment when the audience isn’t buckled over in laughter.” Time Out“Live comedy doesn’t get much better.” The Age“Comedy’s answer to Steely Dan.” The Telegraph

Edinburgh Previews: Fiona Allen + Eli Matthewson
2026-07-16 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
A Double Bill of work in progress shows from two great comics – catch their Edinburgh show before the festival-goers do…
Tickets £16.50 / £14.50 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This show is for a seated audience
Fiona Allen: Work In ProgressSellout 2023 and Smack The Pony Star runs out of time to find the perfect excuse to avoid social engagement must confront their worst fear…other people!
Twice Emmy winning actor and comedian Fiona Allen has been a mainstay of our TV screens over the past two decades. She has starred in various sketch shows, including “Goodness Gracious Me” and “The All Star Comedy Show”, but most famously “Smack the Pony”. Fiona has also appeared in television dramas such as “Dalziel and Pascoe”, “Coronation Street”, in “Happiness” alongside Paul Whitehouse, and on film as Sandra in the film version of the famous Viz comic strip “Fat Slags”, and Smirgut the Fierce in “Gladiatress”. Most recently she has been in that little-known soap “Eastenders”…
Fiona won a whole new generation of fans in the second series of the hit E4 teenage drama “Skins”, playing Maxxie’s mum, Jackie Oliver (her on-screen hubby was Bill Bailey). She has also played the role of Georgia Stevenson in the BBC drama “Waterloo Road”, while often appearing as herself on comedy shows like “Mock the Week” and “8 Out Of 10 Cats”.
“Punchlines delivered with cutting execution” Scotsman“Appealingly barbed company” Guardian
Eli Matthewson: Work In ProgressEli Matthewson is the first ever New Zealander to move to London and he has done it right on time for the end of the world. Just as life was starting to feel safe and secure, he has thrown it all away and scraped into the UK on the last possible week he could qualify for the youth mobility visa. A show about doing everything you can to make something of yourself before society completely crumbles.
“Punchlines that whip back around like a tossed ponytail” – Theatreview“That most generous of comedy things: a personal show that feels inclusive, offering a series of vignettes that invite introspection without ever getting preachy.” ★★★★ – The Recs“Smart, silly, and thoroughly entertaining.” ★★★★ – EdFest Mag★★★★ – Three Weeks★★★★ Scotsman★★★★ Chortle★★★★ Voice Mag

The Music of James Bond - Charter Hall - Colchester
2026-07-16 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
The Music of James Bond
From the moment the first chord strikes, audiences are transported into the mysterious and thrilling world of James Bond. This incredible Chamber Orchestra brings the legendary music of James Bond to life in a way that is bold, elegant and utterly unforgettable.
This is more than a concert – it is an orchestral tribute to one of cinema’s most iconic legacies. Across six decades, the music of Bond has been defined by extraordinary voices: Dame Shirley Bassey, whose soaring performances of “Goldfinger”, “Diamonds Are Forever” and “Moonraker” set the gold standard; Adele, whose Oscar-winning “Skyfall” became an instant classic; Sam Smith’s haunting “Writing’s On the Wall”; and Billie Eilish’s powerful and poignant “No Time To Die”. These songs – and the artists behind them – have given Bond its unmistakable sound.
Performed by world-class musicians and vocalists, every note echoes the sophistication of the James Bond universe. The sound of sweeping strings and bold brass stirs images of high-speedcar chases, exotic escapes and unforgettable encounters. The sultry tones of the singers evoke Bond’s timeless glamour.
This is a night where music and cinema intertwine, where audiences don’t just listen to – they feel it, they live it.
The Great British Film Orchestra is dedicated to celebrating the soundtracks that have defined the golden age of cinema and beyond. With each performance, we honour the artistry ofcomposers and storytellers who have given us moments that transcend the screen.
So, don your finest attire, raise a glass and prepare for an evening of breathtaking music and the unmistakable thrill of James Bond.
Disclaimer: This concert is an independent tribute production. It is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any rights holders of the James Bond franchise. Titles are used solely todescribe the musical programme to audiences.

Edinburgh Previews: Fiona Allen + Eli Matthewson
2026-07-16 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
A Double Bill of work in progress shows from two great comics – catch their Edinburgh show before the festival-goers do…
Tickets £16.50 / £14.50 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This show is for a seated audience
Fiona Allen: Work In ProgressSellout 2023 and Smack The Pony Star runs out of time to find the perfect excuse to avoid social engagement must confront their worst fear…other people!
Twice Emmy winning actor and comedian Fiona Allen has been a mainstay of our TV screens over the past two decades. She has starred in various sketch shows, including “Goodness Gracious Me” and “The All Star Comedy Show”, but most famously “Smack the Pony”. Fiona has also appeared in television dramas such as “Dalziel and Pascoe”, “Coronation Street”, in “Happiness” alongside Paul Whitehouse, and on film as Sandra in the film version of the famous Viz comic strip “Fat Slags”, and Smirgut the Fierce in “Gladiatress”. Most recently she has been in that little-known soap “Eastenders”…
Fiona won a whole new generation of fans in the second series of the hit E4 teenage drama “Skins”, playing Maxxie’s mum, Jackie Oliver (her on-screen hubby was Bill Bailey). She has also played the role of Georgia Stevenson in the BBC drama “Waterloo Road”, while often appearing as herself on comedy shows like “Mock the Week” and “8 Out Of 10 Cats”.
“Punchlines delivered with cutting execution” Scotsman “Appealingly barbed company” Guardian
Eli Matthewson: Work In ProgressEli Matthewson is the first ever New Zealander to move to London and he has done it right on time for the end of the world. Just as life was starting to feel safe and secure, he has thrown it all away and scraped into the UK on the last possible week he could qualify for the youth mobility visa. A show about doing everything you can to make something of yourself before society completely crumbles.
“Punchlines that whip back around like a tossed ponytail” – Theatreview “That most generous of comedy things: a personal show that feels inclusive, offering a series of vignettes that invite introspection without ever getting preachy.” ★★★★ – The Recs “Smart, silly, and thoroughly entertaining.” ★★★★ – EdFest Mag ★★★★ – Three Weeks ★★★★ Scotsman ★★★★ Chortle ★★★★ Voice Mag

Edinburgh Previews: Cecily Hitchcock & Rory Cargill
2026-07-17 19:30 - 22:30 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £15. Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm. This show is for a seated audience.
A Double Bill of work in progress shows from two great comics – catch their Edinburgh show before the festival-goers do…
Cecily Hitchcock Cecily Hitchcock is a comedy siren, crowd enchantress & heckler annihilator. Her unique mix of outlandish anecdotes and off-beat observations have gained traction both online and on stage. Cecily is an accomplished live MC and her sketches and stand up videos have amassed over 15 million views on social media and have been featured on Ladbible, The Sidemen & Brewdog.
“Outstanding” – The Independent “Hot” – Katherine Ryan
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/hmWKmJuQSpshttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/lMmZM89-IN4
Rory Cargill Rory Cargill is a comedy writer-performer, actor and filmmaker. Rory’s work spans character-driven comedy, film and live shows that often integrate technical wizardry, visual spectacle and intricate silly storytelling. His knack for spoof and parody and versatility when inhabiting characters has lead to people describing him as “the British Chris Lilley”. His 2024 live multimedia sketch/character show Television 1 has been hailed in five-star reviews from Broadway World and Lothian Life “the epitome of the Fringe”, “pitch-perfect”, and compared to the work of Peter Serafinowicz. His online sketches have amassed over 7 million views, including his ‘Indie Boys’ series (co-created with Pete Rugman & Dave Durkan) with collaborations from US comedian Kyle Gordon, and musicians Kate Nash and The Hoosiers. He has also appeared in an online comedy short with musician Joy Crookes. His comedy short The Astonishing Adventures of Alfred screened at the BAFTA qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festival and had its US premiere at the LA Comedy Festival. The film was shortlisted for the British Comedy Guide Production Award. He was the creator and host of Something or Other; a live comedy variety night in London that featured guests including Esther Manito, Ania Magliano and Chloe Petts.
https://www.rorycargill.com/ https://www.instagram.com/rorycargill/

NOW! That's What I Call...DRAG! The Victoria Scone Takeover! Colchester!
2026-07-17 19:45 - 23:15 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG! returns to Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester this July with a special appearance from Victoria Scone.
The drag cabaret show will be hosted by East Anglian performers Knuckle Sandwich and Will Power, with Victoria Scone joining the lineup for an evening of drag performance, live vocals, lip-syncing, comedy and audience participation. Additional guest performers are set to be announced.
Doors open at 7.45pm, with the show starting at 8.30pm. VIP ticket holders will be granted early access from 7pm and will have the opportunity to meet Victoria Scone and have a photograph taken with the event photographer.
General admission tickets are £15, with VIP Meet & Greet tickets available for £20. On-the-door tickets, subject to availability, are £20.
The event takes place on the top floor of Three Wise Monkeys, which is not wheelchair-accessible. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional standing room available.
Please note: “NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG!” is a queer-led Drag Cabaret show, and we strive to welcome all audiences into our events! We have a ZERO tolerance policy towards homophobia, transphobia and all forms of abuse. The performers and the audiences deserve your respect at all times. If you do not respect everyone, you will be asked to leave.
We kindly ask that ANY hen or stag party wanting to attend MUST message us before tickets are purchased. We reserve the right to refuse admission without prior contact, and refunds will not be issued. Thank you.

Bringing desert rock vibes to the Queen st Brewhouse
2026-07-17 21:00 - 23:30 | Queen St Brewhouse, 7 - 9 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PG, GB
Dive into an evening of gritty riffs, desertrock energy, and all the swagger of QOTSA — reimagined through the raw, acoustic edge of Colour & Shape.�Expect a set packed with Queens of the Stone Age favourites, alongside a handful of tracks from other iconic altrock artists, all delivered with the duo’s signature, driving rhythms, and cinematic intensity.Stripped back. Turned up. Pure desertrock vibes.

Rec & Ribs
2026-07-18 10:00 - 13:00 | Colchester old heath Recreation Ground, Colchester old heath Recreation Ground
Rec & Ribs comes to Old Heath Recreation Ground, Colchester, on Saturday 18th July.
The free-entry event celebrates barbecue cooking, bringing together food traders specialising in grilled and smoked dishes, along with a bar and DJ-led music throughout the day.
Organisers are promising a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, with food, drink and entertainment running from 10am to 6pm. The event is family and dog-friendly.
Rec & Ribs takes place at Old Heath Recreation Ground, CO1 2ER. Admission is free.
For enquiries, email therecmarket@outlook.com.

Wire Words workshop
2026-07-18 10:30 - 12:30 | Colcheco, Colcheco
Join us for a relaxed and creative workshop where you’ll design and make your own knitted wire word – perfect for home décor, gifts, or something completely personal to you.
Using a knitting machine, you’ll create your own wool-covered wire, before shaping and forming it into your chosen word or phrase. Don’t worry if you’ve never knitted before – this workshop is designed for complete beginners, and you’ll be guided step-by-step throughout.
What you’ll learn:
• How to use a knitting machine to create knitted wire • How to bend and shape your wire into words • What tools to use for the best results • How to assemble and finish your piece
What’s included:
• All materials • Use of tools and equipment • Hot drinks and cake
Saturday 18th July 10.30amColcheco, 37 Layer Road, Colchester CO2 7JW£29.50pp
This is a friendly, informal session where you can learn something new, get creative, and leave with a finished piece you’ll be proud of.
Book your tickets here: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/wire-words-workshop
Spaces are limited, so booking in advance is recommended.
