Shalamar: The Gold Tour - A Fifty Year Celebration
2026-07-10 19:30 - 22:30 (Europe/London) | 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

Colchester Vineyards - Bromley Brook collaboration
2026-07-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
Did you know there are 6 commercial vineyards around Colchester? In this event we will introduce you to the wines being produced right on your doorstep. We will also be joined by Matt from Bromley Brook, who will talk you through a selection of their wines and tell you more about their vineyard in Great Bromley. Join us to explore what Colchester has to offer!
Our events are designed for all types of wine drinker, we don’t do stuffy tastings at The English Wine Tasting Company! Instead, expect plenty of delicious wines, engaging insights, and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
Tickets £49pp. Includes: 7 wines, crisps and crackers, and a tasting notes booklet.
This tasting event will start at 7.30pm and is expected to last 2 hours, with the option to stay a little longer to socialise and enjoy any remaining wine.

Introduction to Essential Bike Maintenance
2026-07-11 11:30 - 13:00 | Unit 2, Portal Precinct, Sir Isaac’s Walk, CO1 1JJ Colchester, United Kingdom, Unit 2, Portal Precinct, Sir Isaac's Walk, CO1 1JJ Colchester, United Kingdom
Level: Beginner | Price: FREE (booking required)
Join us for an introductory session in taking care of your bike.
In this workshop we’ll take you through an M-Check, a step-by-step process that helps you check each part of your bike is working as it should be.
The session is divided into two halves: the bit where we show you how it’s done, and then the bit where you do it yourself!
This summer’s classes are all funded by Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival – thank you to them!
https://www.facebook.com/events/824826980699686/?event_time_id=824826987366352

Miniature Painting Competition
2026-07-11 12:00 - 15:00 | Dice & A Slice, 37 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PQ, GB
Join our Miniature Painting Competition in aid of Odyssey
There is two categories-Over 18’s Single MiniatureUnder 18’s Single Miniature
Our guest Judge for the day is the amazing Monopalite Miniatures!
Drop off your miniature by 1pm – winner will be announced at 4:30pm!
Sign-up at the link below!https://forms.gle/8fnp8JgohunhRBE58
Saturday 11th July
You entry can be ANY single miniature – from any range or game – big or small – as long as it’s a single miniature!
Your entry can be a miniature you have already painted or something you’ve painted especially for the event!
Drop off your miniature between 11am & 1pm – winner will be announced at 4:30pm!
If you want you can hang around and paint some miniatures and meet some fellow hobbyists!
£5 to enter – to be paid on the day – with all proceeds going towards Odysseyhttps://www.odyssey.org.uk/
For more information email us at
diceandaslice@outlook.com
prizes for the winners in both categories (prizes announced soon)
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/

Sausage and Cider Festival - Colchester 2026
2026-07-11 12:00 - 22:00 | Castle Park, Colchester, Castle Park, Colchester
50% OFF TICKETS NOW LIVE!🚨
Sausage and Cider Festival returns to Colchester on Saturday 11th July 2026!
HEADLINER – CHRIS MOYLES!
Special Guests⚡️The Final Barrioke UK Tour!⚡️Big John – BOSH!⚡️Brand New – Pat Sharp’s Funhouse!Party DJ Set
UK’s Best Tribute Acts:⚡️Kaiser Chiefs ⚡️Queen⚡️Kasabian ⚡️Red Hot Chilli Peppers⚡️Mumford and Sons ⚡️UB40
PLUS⚡️Childrens Tent⚡️SIlent Disco ⚡️Axe Throwing⚡️Huge Festival Market⚡️30+ Ciders ⚡️20+ Sausages
50% OFF DAY TICKETS&WEEKEND TICKET
Buy one day, Get 2 Days FREE (Ibiza Orchestra Experience & Summer In Nashville)
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!🔗 – www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/colchester📅- Saturday 11th July📍- Lower Castle Park

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

FLASHBACK : The 88-92 Sessions
2026-07-11 18:00 - 2026-07-12 00:00 | Newtown Tavern, Kendall Road, Colchester, CO1 2BN, GB
🚨 Strictly Vinyl Collective presents: FLASHBACK.On Saturday 11th July, we are rewinding the clocks to the golden era of 1988–1992… Expect a night of the best tunes from Old SkoolAcid House, Breakbeat & Techno,. 🔊A few years back, we threw our first Flashback party. The vibe was incredible, but we heard your feedback: upstairs venues and ticket costs aren’t our style. So, we are bringing it back to basics.We are taking over our absolute favourite local pub for a night of pure, unadulterated crate-digging bliss. We are honouring the roots of the scene and uniting for one reason: to lose ourselves in the music and leave our worries behind. So Get Ready to Move! The needle hits the wax, the bassline drops, and the entry costs absolutely nothing.Expect nothing less than incredible DJs, massive sound, and top production courtesy of Mixtronix Events.Our line-up ofselectors will be hitting the decks, ready to spin pure vinyl with absolute precision. Come out to support these vinyl masters and celebrate the classic records that shaped dance music history! 😎
DJ’s ⭐️CyberdogKhanageKerry NolanFloyd FreshGrant UrismoLukie B
* 🗓️ Date: Saturday 11th July6pm – 12am* 📍 Venue: The New Town Tavern, Colchester* 🎟️ Entry: 100% FREE Strictly Vinyl Collective parties pride themselves on being safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all, with a strict policy against disrespectful behaviour. We operate a ‘No phones on the dancefloor’ policy.
Peace, Love & Unity ☮️✨️💜
Save the Culture Play Vinyl 🙂
#AcidHouse #Oldschool #88To92 #StrictlyVinyl #ColchesterNightlife #NewTownTavern

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
Join us for a special evening as we celebrate 20 years since Colchester United secured historic promotion to the Championship.
Relive one of the club’s greatest achievements with an exclusive two-course dinner alongside former players from the promotion-winning squad. The evening will feature special guest appearances, live Q&A sessions, entertainment throughout the night, games, photo opportunities, and memorabilia giving supporters the chance to look back on an unforgettable moment in U’s history.
Whether you were there every step of the way or simply want to celebrate a landmark chapter in the club’s journey, this promises to be a memorable night shared with fellow Colchester fans.
Tickets are £35 and include a two-course meal.
Tables of 10 booked in one transaction will receive a free bucket of beers!
Parking is free just make sure to validate your car registration in reception – any car parked for longer than 10 minutes will need to do this.

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).

Geek Pie with Sam Fez and Sebastian Bee
2026-07-11 20:00 - 23:00 | 1 St Nicolas Passage , CO1 1jz Colchester, United Kingdom, 1 St Nicolas Passage , CO1 1jz Colchester, United Kingdom
Geek Pie, a hi-tech multi-genre post-punk disco for all you self facilitating media nodes.Wall to wall anthems and well plastic chaos. Including the infamous ‘Pleasuredome Hour’.
Expect bangers from the likes of:
Blur / Red Hot Chili Peppers / T-Rex / Wet Leg / Hot Chocolate / Wu Tang Clan / Black Lace / Supergrass / Talking Heads / Sorry / Pulp / The B-52s / The Strokes / Manic Street Preachers / Gazza / Michael Jackson / Hot Chip / Nirvana / James Chance and the Contortions / The KLF / Led Zeppelin / Nicki Minaj / The Flaming Lips / Fat White Family / Blondie / Young Signorino / Madonna / The Chats / David Bowie / Primal Scream / Frank Sinatra / Big Black / Lil Yatchy / Butthole Surfers / Fat Dog / The Avalanches / Frankie Goes To Hollywood / The Sex Pistols / Snoop Dog / Fat Les / Death Grips / Barry White / Garbage / Fatboy Slim / Michelle Gurevich / Robbie Williams / Alice Cooper / Bran Van 3000 / Groove Armada / Abba / Dinosaur Jr / Faith No More / Happy Mondays / The Smiths / Outkast / Oasis / Jay Zed / Super Furry Animals / The Lightning Seeds / Steven Seagal / Arctic Monkeys / Dj Luck & MC Neat / Franz Ferdinand / Europe / Tame Impala / Shaggy / PiL / Sleaze / Elton John / Public Enemy / Joe Dolce / Eminem / Whigfield
Post requests in the ‘event discussion’ bit.Keep it foolish guys!

Summer In Nashville - Colchester 2026
2026-07-12 12:00 - 20:00 | Castle Park, Colchester, Castle Park, Colchester
🚨50% OFF TICKETS NOW LIVE🚨
Summer In Nashville returns to Colchester with a huge line up of music, games and food!
Line up announced!🤠 One Night In Nashville – Brand New Set List
Tribute Bands:🤠 Luke Combs 🤠 Morgan Wallen🤠Dolly Parton
Plus:Countryoke, Robbie McMinn, Stella LainGeorgia Nevada, Fin PearsonLucy Blu, Ollie Hawkins, DJ Chris Armstrong
Expect an unforgettable day including:💃 Line Dancing 🔥 American BBQ & Street Food🐂 Rodeo Bull 🎯Axe Throwing+ 500 Free Cowboy Hats
🚨DEALS🚨50% OFF DAY TICKETS&WEEKEND TICKET
Buy one day, Get 2 Days FREE (Ibiza Orchestra Experience & Sausage and Cider Festival)
50% OFF TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!🔗 – www.summerinnashville.com/colchester📅- Sunday 12th July📍- Lower Castle Park

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.

Colchester Academy presents.... Oliver! JR
2026-07-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Hawthorn Avenue, CO4 3JL Colchester, United Kingdom, Hawthorn Avenue, CO4 3JL Colchester, United Kingdom
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now!Join us for a spectacular production of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! JR., brought to life by our incredibly talented students.🌟 For two nights only📅 14th & 15th July 2026🚪 Doors open: 5:40pm🎭 Show starts: 6:00pm🎟️ Tickets: £3.50 each📲 Available now via Arbor
Following the incredible success of last year’s production, we are delighted to bring you our first ever two-night summer show, promising two evenings full of music, laughter and outstanding student talent.Book early to avoid disappointment!
Not sure how to use the Arbor School Shop? Click the link below:
https://support.arbor-education.com/hc/en-us/articles/5068444710813-Purchasing-School-Shop-items-on-the-Parent-Portal-or-Parent-App

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.

Colchester Academy presents.... Oliver! JR
2026-07-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Hawthorn Avenue, CO4 3JL Colchester, United Kingdom, Hawthorn Avenue, CO4 3JL Colchester, United Kingdom
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now!Join us for a spectacular production of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! JR., brought to life by our incredibly talented students.🌟 For two nights only📅 14th & 15th July 2026🚪 Doors open: 5:40pm🎭 Show starts: 6:00pm🎟️ Tickets: £3.50 each📲 Available now via ArborFollowing the incredible success of last year’s production, we are delighted to bring you our first ever two-night summer show, promising two evenings full of music, laughter and outstanding student talent.Book early to avoid disappointment.
Not sure how to use the Arbor School Shop? Click the link below:
https://support.arbor-education.com/hc/en-us/articles/5068444710813-Purchasing-School-Shop-items-on-the-Parent-Portal-or-Parent-App

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

Magdalen Street Clearance Kilo Sale
2026-07-17 15:30 - 18:30 | 95–97 Magdalen Street, Colchester, CO1 2LA, 95–97 Magdalen Street, Colchester, CO1 2LA
📢 MAGDALEN STREET CLEARANCE KILO SALE IS BACK! 📢
Looking for a wardrobe refresh at an unbeatable price? Join us for our Magdalen Street Clearance Kilo Sale and pick up fantastic pre-loved fashion for just £2.49 per kilo! 🛍️👕👖
📅 Friday 17th July⏰ 3:30pm – 6:30pm📍 95–97 Magdalen Street, Colchester, CO1 2LA
Whether you’re searching for everyday essentials, hidden gems, or sustainable fashion bargains, there’ll be plenty to choose from. Simply select your items, have them weighed at the till, and pay by the kilo!
💖 Every purchase helps support the vital work of St Helena.♻️ Shop sustainably and give quality clothing a second life.💷 Incredible value with hundreds of items available.
Bring your friends, family, and fellow bargain hunters and see how much you can save!
#StHelena #KiloSale #Colchester #MagdalenStreet #CharityShop #CharityShopping #PreLovedFashion #SustainableFashion #ShopForGood #BargainHunting #FashionForLess #SecondHandStyle #EcoFriendlyFashion #ReduceReuseRecycle #ColchesterEvents #EssexEvents #SupportLocalCharity #HospiceCare #ThriftFinds #CommunityShopping 🛍️💖♻️

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
Do you love all things drag?! Well strut right up because “NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG!” is BACK bringing you a fabulous evening of DRAG this July! And this time, we’ll be joined by RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 3 and Canada Vs The World Superstar, VICTORIA SCONE!
That’s right! We have the Drag Race ICON, Victoria Scone herself, entering the building with us in Colchester! She’ll be joining us for an unforgettable evening of drag cabaret, camp and CHAOS and we could not be more excited! Expect electrifying lip synching, stunning live vocals, camp comedy, audience games and of course…CHAOS!
Hosted by East Anglia’s dynamite drag duo Knuckle Sandwich and Will Power (with a fabulous cast of special guests TBA!) you’ll be in for the night of your lives! So put on those heels, throw on some glitter and get ready for the drag mixtape to begin! Trust us, you won’t want it to end!
This event is seated, with standing room available! Seating is first come, first served! Please note the venue is upstairs and unfortunately, is not wheelchair accessible.
VIP Meet & Greet ticket holders will be granted first access to the venue for first choice of seating.
Doors at 7.45pm! Show at 8.30pm!
General Admission £15*
VIP Meet & Greet £20* (You will be granted first access to the venue for your choice of seating, meet and greet opportunity with Victoria Scone and photo opportunity with our event photographer! VIP Meet & Greet doors will be at 7pm – further details will be emailed closer to the date of the event! STRICTLY LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE!)
On The Door Tickets £20 (valid for show only)
Please note: We unfortunately do not offer refunds – please message if you have any questions!
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 in advance of tickets being purchased. We reserve the right to refuse admittance if there is no 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 – BBQ FESTIVAL 🔥
A full day of BBQ food and summer vibes is coming to Old Heath Recreation Ground as Rec & Ribs takes over Colchester.
This is a proper BBQ-led event, celebrating low & slow cooking, big flavours and a laid-back outdoor atmosphere. Expect stacked ribs, sizzling grills, great traders, a bar on site and DJ-led music all day, all set in a relaxed daytime setting.
🍖 BBQ & grill-focused traders🎶 DJ-led soundtrack throughout the day🍺 Bar on site👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & dog friendly🌞 Outdoor summer atmosphere
Whether you’re there for the BBQ, the music or just a great day out with friends and family, Rec & Ribs is all about good food, good people and good vibes.
📍 Old Heath Recreation Ground, Colchester, CO1 2ER📅 Saturday 18th July⏰ 10am – 6pm🎟️ FREE ENTRY
Organised by The Rec Events📧 Enquiries: therecmarket@outlook.com
🔥 Come hungry. Stay all day. 🔥

Wire Words workshop
2026-07-18 10:30 - 12:30 | Ardleigh Studios, Ardleigh Studios
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 10.30amStudio 5, Ardleigh Studios, The Maltings, Station Road, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 7RT£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.
