Keep Colchester Cool

The Tango Zone Pop-up Practica @Marks Tey Parish Hall
2025-09-22 20:15 - 22:15 (Europe/London) | Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Rd, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ, GB
⭐️👀 Another chance to dance more tango in Colchester! 👀⭐️An informal ad-hoc pop-up practica on MONDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER, 8.15-10.15pm at Marks Tey Parish Hall. Come and practise some tango in a casual friendly environment with help available for any tango queries. Beginners always welcome! ☺️👍 Chocs and biscuits supplied! 🍫🍪
📅Date: Monday 22nd September⏰Time: 8.15-10.15pm📍Venue: Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Road, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ🚗Large free car park at the venue. 💸Entry: £5
⭐️ALSO: **NEW** FUNDAMENTALS LESSON 7-8pm in The Small Hall, Marks Tey Parish Hall.⭐️Come and learn all-important tango basics before practising them in the practica! Beginners welcome! ☺️Teachers: Robert, Lorraine, Paul and Delia.
📅Date: Monday 22nd September⏰Time: 7.00-8.00pm📍Venue: The Small Hall, Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Road, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ🚗Large free car park at the venue. 💸Entry: £7 for fundamentals lesson (£10 lesson + practica)
Please note: Attendance is at the risk and responsibility of the individual.

Flamenco Express @ Headgate Theatre with Kuky Santiago
2025-09-21 19:30 - 21:45 | Headgate Theatre, Headgate Theatre
Flamenco Express returns with another fresh cargo of raw, heart-wrenching flamenco. Featuring ‘sizzling soloist’ La Joaquina, guitar virtuoso Chris Clavo, the massive vocal presence of El Pola, and the electrifying guest dancer Kuky Santiago—an artist of captivating stage presence who, by the age of six, had already performed at the Palace of Fine Arts in Brussels. He went on to study in Seville with the legendary Farruco family and Juan de los Reyes, and has since won international acclaim, performing across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Expect an evening of exhilarating rhythm and raw emotionVidéos: https://youtu.be/F_mSehQ5cMY?si=EvtDrsHJIRbny1Zfhttps://youtu.be/1M88eBIUZUA?si=xer7I_VYtRTpdXVshttps://youtu.be/xfUihRc3yDA?si=BXzh8WrlNWks44SNMediaFacebook: www.facebook.com/kukycanela/Instagram: @ciekukysantiagoInstagram.www.instagram.com/flamenco_expressX: www://x.com/flamencoexpressFacebook. www.facebook.com/flamencoexpress/Youtube. www.youtube.com/user/flamencoexpressFlickr. www.flickr.com/photos/flamencoexpress/ Home. www.flamencoexpress.co.uk
PRESS CUTTINGS“Unlike some of the splashy and slightly pretentious star-name shows at the festival flamenco, this performance is totally direct; immediate,involving and completely beguiling.” – Exeunt Magazine“..utterlyriveting variations of firecracker beats…tumultuous fervour,indelible gracefulness.”. – The Stage“Delighted the audience, who rewarded them with rapturous applause and encores.“ – Dance Europe“This fiesty flamenco company deliver the finest flamenco, plus sizzling soloist, La Joaquina.” – Time Out“A tornado of passion… gloriously upbeat… “– Harrow Times“The three curtain calls were richly deserved.” – SevenoaksChronicle“A musical journey laced with passion, grace and immense artistry.” – Harlow Star

Bach to Baby Concert for Babies, Kids & You: It's a String Thing!
2025-09-21 11:00 - 14:00 | Layer Marney Tower
Beach days are over, but here’s a treat for the whole family! Bach to Baby return to the gorgeous barn at Layer Marney Tower for some more musical magic.Tots are free to dance, shout, and roam about to sparkling string duets and favourite nursery rhyme singalongs hosted by violinist Katy Johns and cellist Daisy Vatalaro.Each ticket admits 1 adult and 2 kids (under 12) to beautiful Layer Marney Tower with its play areas, café, and tower to explore.

Sumo Beatz
2025-09-20 22:00 - 2025-09-21 04:00 | Trilogy Colchester, Trilogy Colchester
Sumo Beatz is back in Colchester with a bang!
We’ve not had a party since losing Roberts (our last venue) in April. It’s time to rise up again, this time we’re taking over room 3 at Trilogy! We have a stacked line up for you.
Please share this event with your friends to help spread the word!
This is a limited ticket event with only 200 spaces available.
ONLY these sumo tickets will get you access to the Sumo Beatz room AND the rest of the trilogy club.
Very limited £10 Early Bird tickets are on sale now!
link > https://www.fatsoma.com/e/7ypbxn25/sumo-beatz
(SECURE YOUR TICKETS ASAP TO AVAOID DISAPOINTMENT.)
10pm – 4am
18 +
Bring I.D – Last entry 1 am.
Line Up
DJs
Logan D (Low Down Deep)
Heist (Playaz)
Pleasure (Low Down Deep)
Benny Colab
Deejay Jaydee
Beaker
MCs
Funsta
Harry Shotta
Kombo
D Low
Drastik
Iffy

Terminal party at Coda
2025-09-20 21:00 - 23:45 | Coda Colchester, Coda Colchester
The Iron Boot Scrapers rip it up with our inimitable covers of well know songs that will get you dancing and singing along!Free entry

Groove On Up
2025-09-20 20:00 - 23:00 | 10 North Station Rd, Colchester
The Victoria Inn’s ‘Groove On Up’
Get ready for “Groove On Up,” a night of classic soul, disco, and funk!
DJs Ben Howard and Dave Mansfield, known for their legendary club nights, are set to get everyone grooving at the Victoria Inn on Saturday 20th September.
They’ll supply you with a mix of timeless tracks, from Motown classics to the golden era of disco to singalong funk and soul anthems.
And the best part? It’s free entry!

James Bond Concert Spectacular - Charter Hall, Colchester
2025-09-20 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Q The Music’s James Bond Concert Spectacular is the world’s finest and most critically acclaimed tribute to the music of James Bond.
Celebrating more than 20 years as the first original and pioneering Bond concert, they are known for their stirring emotional and adrenaline-fueled performances, mixed in with superb musicianship and flair. Indeed, every fan club around the world recognises them as the best and finest performances of the songs since the originals.
Focusing not only on theme songs, the show also pays homage to the complete canon covering chase music, incidental cues and suites from across the series.
Some of the most notable praise has come from hugely influential Bond related stars including:
Five-time Bond composer David Arnold: “They do a phenomenal job”
Former James Bond actor George Lazenby: “They did John Barry proud”
Sir Roger Moore’s Office (following his official Memorial at Pinewood Studios): “They helped make a wonderful day an extraordinary day”
Steven Saltzman (son of legendary founding Bond producer Harry Saltzman): “You did my Dad proud”
Even The Times national newspaper raved about their performance in a 4-star review of their West End debut: “It’s hard to imagine this music being served better. Simply stunning.”
Becoming synonymous with the top Bond events around the world, in 2019 they performed at an event with George Lazenby: the 50th anniversary event for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, held at Piz Gloria in the Swiss Alps. In 2019 they had the honour to provide the music at Sir Roger Moore’s official memorial event at Pinewood Studios. Appearing in London’s West End multiple times they have sold out several of the most prestigious venues to huge critical acclaim.
The show features all the Bond songs such as Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, Live and Let Die and Nobody Does It Better – performed by musicians taken from the UK’s leading orchestras, sessions and shows. Caroline Bliss, who played Moneypenny in The Living Daylights and Licence To Kill, will guide you through the concert as compere, sharing the odd anecdote about her time working in this legendary series.
With stunning singing, an informative compere, and a show full of iconic tunes performed to an unparalleled level of detail it really is a night of the highest quality guaranteed. As the only James Bond concert created by die-hard Bond fans, for Bond fans, by people who understand the music better than anyone else: you won’t want to miss it.

PUNX 4 THE ANIMALS
2025-09-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Queen St Brewhouse, 7 - 9 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PG, GB
PUNX 4 THE ANIMALS Queen St Brewhouse, Colchester.
DollFace- 6:00-6:40
Rudimentary Paste- 7:00-7:40
Dudesmell- 8:00-8:40
Kerozine- 9:00-9:40
The Domestics- 10:00-10:40
Creature Arcade- 11:00-11:40
Free Entry gig, but donations are welcomed. Cheers 💜🩷💜

Jamie Catto- The Old Forest Path: Book Launch and Performance
2025-09-20 16:15 - 19:15 | 63 High street, Colchester, 63 High street, Colchester
British musician, (Faithless, 1 Giant Leap) filmmaker, author, and transformative coach, Jamie Catto, performs songs and reads from his new book, The Old Forest Path – a children’sbook with evocative illustrations by Kanako Wakabayashi that intertwines themes of music, magic, and liberation.
Jamie Catto is a British musician, filmmaker, author, and workshop leader best known for his innovative fusion of music, spirituality, and personal growth. He was a founding member of the pioneering electronic band Faithless, helping shape its distinctive sound and global success. Catto later co-created 1 Giant Leap, a groundbreaking multimedia project that combined music, spoken word, and global cultural voices to explore themes like unity, consciousness, and human connection. The project featured collaborations with artists and thinkers from around the world, blending diverse musical styles into a powerful narrative. While his later work expanded into filmmaking, writing, and transformational workshops, music has remained at the heart of his creative expression. His workshops often include rhythm, sound, and voice to unlock deeper emotional insight. Jamie Catto’s work continues to blur boundaries between art and inner exploration, using music as a bridge to healing, awareness, and authentic human connection.
The Old Forest Path by Jamie Catto is a beautifully written children’s book that takes young readers on a gentle, magical journey through nature and self-discovery. Set along a winding forest path, the story introduces simple yet profound ideas about emotions, mindfulness, and the beauty of being present. With lyrical, calming language and a warm, nurturing tone, the book offers children a safe and imaginative space to explore their feelings and inner world. Each step through the forest introduces comforting characters and gentle life lessons that encourage kindness, curiosity, and self-acceptance. Jamie Catto, known for his work in music and personal growth, brings a unique sensitivity to this book, creating a peaceful experience ideal for bedtime or quiet moments. The Old Forest Path is more than a story—it’s an invitation for children (and the adults reading with them) to slow down, breathe deeply, and find calm in their own hearts.

Faux Leather Tote Workshop
2025-09-20 13:30 - 16:30 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
Come and make a Faux Leather Handbag
Suitable for beginners and those with experience.
Choose from a Hot Beverage and Cake or a Lunch from the following options
Fish pie & garden peasChilli con carne & riceVegan burger & sweet potato fries
Book via Eventbrite with fees or email info@thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk to pay via Paypal or Bank Transfers (no fees).

Autumn Wreath Workshop
2025-09-20 10:30 - 13:30 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
Come and make an Autumn Wreath, all materials provided. You can bring additional foliage if you wish.
Suitable for beginners and those with experience.
Choose from a Hot Beverage and Cake or a Lunch from the following options
Fish pie & garden peasChilli con carne & riceVegan burger & sweet potato fries
Book via Eventbrite with fees or email info@thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk to pay via Paypal or Bank Transfers (no fees).

Watercolour Saturdays with Justine Moss
2025-09-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Lewis Gardens, CO1 1JH Colchester, United Kingdom
Explore the materials, techniques and colour theory used to develop watercolour paintings and meet other watercolour lovers in this relaxed social session.
During each workshop session a different subject will be provided for you to paint.
Your tutor can also guide you to work on a painting you are already working on or a subject you have always wanted to paint.
Basic materials provided.
For more info: https://firstsite.uk/event/watercolour-saturdays-justine-moss/ or call us on 01206 713 700.

Missrepresent & Friends
2025-09-19 22:00 - 2025-09-20 04:00 | Colchester
Babas 5 Crouch StreetColchester CO3 3EN
07581 043041

THE LEYLINES with support from Wilswood Buoys
2025-09-19 19:30 - 22:30 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
The Leylines: ‘Phosphenes’ Album Tour 2025
19th September | Doors 7:30pm | £15 + booking fee | Over 18s only
Experience the long-awaited third album from The Leylines as they bring ‘Phosphenes’ to life. Six years in the making, this transformative record blends cinematic rock with indie-folk authenticity, marking a bold evolution in the band’s sound.Hailing from the West Country, The Leylines have forged a unique musical identity where folk roots meet festival energy. Their live shows are legendary – a thrilling mix of soaring violin, electrifying guitar riffs, and lyrics that speak to both social conscience and the joy of living.
With support from Wilswood Buoys
Location:Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester (Top Floor)Please note, access to the top floor does not have a lift. There are five short flights of stairs with rest opportunities between each flight, ensuring everyone can enjoy the show.
Viewer Discretion:Please be aware that this event may feature flashing and strobing lighting effects.
Refund Policy: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 attendance, but unfortunately, we cannot accommodate refund requests within this timeframe.

Yazmin wood ~ summer party 🎉
2025-09-19 19:00 - 23:00 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
✨don’t miss this✨
🍾🍸🍾🍸🍾🍸Summer send off atThe Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester!
Tickets on sale now!only £10 see link 🔗 in comments to book ✨

Faulty Towers: The Original Dining Experience
2025-09-19 19:00 - 22:30 | Colchester United FC, JobServe Community Stadium, United Way, Colchester, CO4 5UP, GB
50 years to the day since the show first aired, come and celebrate Faulty Towers’ success with this interactive dining experience.
The audience will enjoy a beautiful 3 course meal alongside 5 star comedy whilst you become diners in the ‘Faulty Towers’ restaurant. Basil, Sybil & Manuel will host this entertaining evening, where you can certainly expect the unexpected!
Doors open at 7pm, with the meal being served from 7.30pm. Approx 10pm finish. Over 16’s only.
Parking is free at the stadium when attending one of our events. Simply enter your car registration number into the tablets in the reception foyer as you enter.
If you wish to leave your vehicle overnight, you may do so and your parking validation will cover you until the following day. Please ensure that your vehicle is collected by 10am.

Meteora - The Linkin Park Tribute / with support from Limpbiscuit
2025-09-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Coda Colchester, Coda Colchester
Meteora make their Colchester debut – The UK’s #1 Tribute to LINKIN PARK
“These talented guys really inhabit the energy of Linkin Park and are clearly dedicated fans of the songs, which they perform with impressive harmonies and nostalgic riffs. They transported me back to my teens!”
with support from LIMPBISCUIT
Friday 19th September 2025
7pm Doors
£15 adv / £18 otd
18+ ONLY

The Country Music Experience: Colchester - Charter Hall
2025-09-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Charter Hall, Charter Hall
The Country Music Experience by The Country Collective: Colchester
Sign up here to be notified when tickets go on sale 👉 https://kickofflabs.com/giveaway/country-music-experience-2025-sign
We are thrilled to bring our sell out show back to Colchester’s go to live event destination!
The Country Collective brings you an incredible country experience like no other, throw on those cowboy hats, two step into your boots and head on down to our ranch, where you can dance the night away to some of the biggest country anthems from the decades! 👢💃
Experience our our collective of musicians bringing to life the sounds of Country, nostalgic & new in a live 90 minute show stopping performance! 🌵🎤
Performing the music of:⭐️ Dolly Parton⭐️ Luke Combs⭐️ Morgan Wallen⭐️ Kenny Rogers⭐️ Darius Rucker⭐️ John Denver⭐️ Shania Twain⭐️ Chris Stapleton⭐️ Taylor Swift⭐️ Blake Shelton
🎟️ THE COUNTRY MUSIC EXPERIENCE – TICKET INFO 🎟️
⭐ All tickets are seated, you will be able choose your seats using the map feature on Eventbrite!
⭐ Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. We recommend a minimum age of 14+ due to the nature of the show!
⭐ Once tickets are gone there will be no additional releases!

POSTPONED CK9R Pub Quiz at Hole in The Wall - 19/09/2025
2025-09-19 19:00 - 20:00 | Hole in the Wall, Hole in the Wall
Due to the influx of animals in the rescue and personal circumstances going on at the moment, we need to postpone the quiz night tomorrow.
As the rescue is ran by a limited number of volunteers, we need to ensure our time is being put first for our personal lives and the animals lives.
We will liaise with Hole in the Wall and get a new date arranged.
Those of you that have booked a table, we have messaged you privately.
We are really sorry to cancel last minute but we need to make sure we look after ourselves and the animals as a priority.
The pub will be hosting a karaoke night and there will be a pot for donations that can be left for the rescue. Please feel free to share the support and keep an eye on our social media for a new quiz date!
Thank you for understanding🐾

National Theatre Live: Inter Alia
2025-09-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Lakeside Theatre, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, GB
Inter Aliaa new play by Suzie Miller
Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Saltburn) is Jessica in the much-anticipated next play from the team behind Prima Facie.
Jessica Parks is a smart Crown Court Judge at the top of her career. Behind the robe, she is a karaoke fiend, a loving wife and a supportive parent. When an event threatens to throw her life completely off balance, can she hold her family upright?
Writer Suzie Miller and director Justin Martin reunite following their global phenomenon Prima Facie, with this searing examination of modern motherhood and masculinity.
Running Time:120min TBC
BBFC Certificate:15 ‘as live’ TBC

German Taster Evening
2025-09-17 19:00 - 22:00 | 5-6 St Nicholas St, CO1 1LB Colchester, United Kingdom, 5-6 St Nicholas St, CO1 1LB Colchester, United Kingdom
Get a taste of Bavaria at our German Taster Evening! Join us on Wednesday 17th September throughout the evening we will guide you through a selection of authentic German beers paired with traditional German food.
Tickets online cost £35. Availability is limited for this event so pre-booking is essential.
Starts 7pm in our tasting roomOver 18s only.
Guests with specific dietary requirements or with allergies should contact the team via info@othermonkeybrewing.com prior to ticket purchase.
Access – There is no lift to access the tasting room at Other Monkey Brewing The Taproom. There is one flight of stairs to reach the tasting room.

Iceland In Winter - Talk by Colin Westgate MFIAP FRPS MPAGB APAGB
2025-09-16 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Colin has been photographing landscapes for over 60 years andhas never wavered in his enthusiasm and passion for this diverse subject. One of his favourite locations is Iceland, a country he has returned to repeatedly. The raw and dramatic volcanic scenery offers endless and exciting opportunities for photography.In winter, the unique Icelandic landscape is transformed into something truly magical, with a blanket of snow and ice covering everything, including frozen rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. The special quality of light during this season adds another dimension to the scenery, and the longer nights increase the chances of experiencing the Northern Lights.
(Visitors £5.00)
Header Image: Winter Light, Iceland – Colin Westgate MPAGB FRPS MFIAP APAGB

Christine Collister SOLO tour 2025
2025-09-15 20:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
With a voice described by The Times as “personally delivered by God,” Christine Collister returns to the stage this year with a beautifully expanded live experience based around her acclaimed 2024 project Children of the Sea — a spellbinding suite of original songs inspired by the folklore of her native Isle of Man.Following a warm reception for both the album and its richly illustrated companion book, Christine is thrilled to bring audiences deeper into this magical world. In 2025, she shares additional new material drawn from the same thematic well, alongside a fresh collection of video storytelling created for earlier fan favourites — all seamlessly woven into an intimate evening of music, myth and memory.With her trademark blend of soul, folk, blues, jazz and country — and that effortlessly powerful voice — Christine continues to defy genres and captivate audiences worldwide. From her early days singing the iconic BBC theme The Life and Loves of a She-Devil, through collaborations with Richard Thompson, Clive Gregson, Daphne’s Flight, Dave Kelly and Michael Fix, she has carved out a singular space in the musical landscape.Over 42 years, 26 albums, and countless sold-out performances later, Christine remains a magnetic, moving and utterly unique live performer. This year’s tour promises an atmospheric, heartfelt and visually rich celebration of stories — old and new — told as only she can.“Boundary-breaking is routine for Collister… one of the finest grown-up vocalists on the planet.” – Q Magazine

FM Brotherhood Tour + Brave Rival // Colchester Arts Centre
2025-09-14 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
FM are pleased to announce their new full band “Brotherhood” tour for Sept 2025
FM will perform songs from their past 14 albums including their 1984 debut album Indiscreet, plus Tough It Out, Metropolis, Synchronized and many more.
Formed in the 80’s by the Overland brothers FM have become one of the UK’s seminal Rock Bands. The bands current line is Steve Overland – Vocals, Merv Goldsworthy – Bass, Pete Jupp – Drums, Jem Davis – Keyboards and Jim Kirkpatrick – Guitar.
“From our meeting in a Notting Hill pub in 1984 to our “one off” comeback gig at Firefest 2007, it’s great to now tour beyond our 40th Anniversary shows,” says FM’s drummer, Pete Jupp. “Who’d have thought we’d reach such a milestone?”
Joining FM as special guest in London, Wolverhampton, Manchester and Leeds we have Rosalie Cunningham. In Edinburgh, Newcastle, Bristol, Cardiff, Colchester & Southend we have hotly tipped Brave Rival. With the exceptionally talented Jack J Hutchinson joining the band at Grimsby, Birdwell, Gloucester and Chester.
Rosalie Jo Cunningham is an English singer-songwriter that started with the band Ipso Facto in 2007. After their break-up, Cunningham started a new project named Purson in 2011. However, she has performed as a solo artist since 2017, following the end of her previous project.
Despite lineup changes and shifting trends, the Tygers never lost their bite. After a brief hiatus, they roared back in the late ‘90s, proving their staying power with critically acclaimed releases like Ambush (2012) and Ritual (2019). Still active, still delivering classic heavy metal with modern fire, Tygers of Pan Tang remain one of the genre’s most enduring and underrated forces.
Brave Rival are the South East’s blues-rock powerhouse, bringing a fresh, fiery energy to the genre. Hailing from Portsmouth, this UK Blues Award-nominated band is driven by the powerhouse twin vocals of Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick, whose harmonies cut deep with soul and raw emotion. Guitarist Ed “The Shred” Clarke delivers soaring solos and thunderous riffs, while Billy Dedman (bass) and Donna Peters (drums) provide the rock-solid groove that keeps the whole machine firing on all cylinders.
Drawing inspiration from blues and rock legends like Aretha Franklin, Heart, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, and Tedeschi Trucks Band, Brave Rival blend classic influences with a modern edge. Their sound is both familiar and refreshingly unique—deeply rooted in blues tradition yet bursting with contemporary fire. Whether on record or tearing up the stage, Brave Rival are a band you need to hear—and one you won’t forget.
Jack J Hutchinson is a British blues-rock firebrand, known for his soulful vocals, searing guitar work, and a sound that blends classic rock swagger with modern grit. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles, his music channels the raw energy of vintage blues-rock while keeping one foot firmly in the present.
Hutchinson’s love for rock ‘n’ roll was ingrained early—his childhood was soundtracked by Exile on Main Street, Revolver, and The Beatles’ iconic red and blue albums. But it was discovering Jimmy Page as a teenager that sealed the deal. “I bought some dragon flares and never looked back,” he recalls.
With a reputation for electrifying live shows and albums packed with riffs, hooks, and deep grooves, Hutchinson continues to carve his own path in the blues-rock world, earning a dedicated following and critical acclaim along the way.
Become a VIP ticket holder to access the venue early! VIP meet and greet prior to the performance with FM and receive a signed souvenir poster and Ltd edition tour laminate. There are a limited number of tickets allocated to each show, booking early recommended to avoid disappointment.(VIP Customers should arrive at the venue 1hr 15mins before advertised door times)

Bézique: Nu-Gypsy Acoustic Jazz
2025-09-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, Colchester, CO7 9AB, GB
Led by cellist Shirley Smart, Bézique performs a variety of acoustic jazz and café music from around the world. Their repertoire includes material by Django Reinhardt, Richard Galliano, and Bireli Lagrene, as well as original compositions. They also incorporate an occasional and rarely heard North African flavour to their repertoire through the inclusion of works by the Algerian chaabi pianist Maurice el-Medioni, giving them a uniquely cosmopolitan sound on the UK gypsy jazz scene.
Shirley is recognised as one of the UK’s most versatile and creative cellists, being equally at home and well versed in jazz, Middle Eastern, and classical music.
Originally trained under Raphael Wallfisch at the Guildhall School of Music and Janos Starker in Paris, she subsequently moved to Jerusalem, where she remained for 10 years, studying and performing a wide variety of musical traditions from North Africa, Turkey, and the Middle East. She was also highly active on the jazz scene, working with artists including Avishai Cohen, Omer Avital, and Yasmin Levy.
Since returning to the UK, as well as leading several groups of her own, she has worked with many leading jazz and world music artists, including Antonio Forcione, Mulato Astatke, Gilad Atzmon, Neil Cowley, Julian Ferraretto, Robert Mitchell, and Alice Zawadski.
Shirley is Professor of Musicianship and Improvisation at the Royal College of Music and a Lecturer in Music at Kent University. She also teaches at Trinity Laban and the RCM Junior Department. She is a visiting tutor for the National Youth Jazz Collective and an in demand workshop leader.
Shirley Smart (Cello), Peter Michaels (Guitar), Mike Guy (Accordion), Marcus Penrose (Double Bass).

Bezique: Nu-Gypsy Acoustic Jazz
2025-09-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, Colchester, CO7 9AB, GB
“Smart’s playing, both with and without the bow, is exceptional throughout.” – The JazzMann
“A fascinating melting pot of musical influences.” – World Music Central
“. . . she morphs seamlessly from Stephane Grappelli-like swing and Bird-like bebop . . .” Jazzwise
Led by cellist Shirley Smart, Bezique performs a variety of acoustic jazz and café music from around the world. Their repertoire includes material by Django Reinhardt, Richard Galliano, and Bireli Lagrene, as well as original compositions. They also incorporate an occasional and rarely heard North African flavour to their repertoire through the inclusion of works by the Algerian chaabi pianist Maurice el-Medioni, giving them a uniquely cosmopolitan sound on the UK gypsy jazz scene.
Shirley is recognised as one of the UK’s most versatile and creative cellists, being equally at home and well versed in jazz, Middle Eastern, and classical music.
Originally trained under Raphael Wallfisch at the Guildhall School of Music and Janos Starker in Paris, she subsequently moved to Jerusalem, where she remained for 10 years, studying and performing a wide variety of musical traditions from North Africa, Turkey, and the Middle East. She was also highly active on the jazz scene, working with artists including Avishai Cohen, Omer Avital, and Yasmin Levy.
Since returning to the UK, as well as leading several groups of her own, she has worked with many leading jazz and world music artists, including Antonio Forcione, Mulato Astatke, Gilad Atzmon, Neil Cowley, Julian Ferraretto, Robert Mitchell, and Alice Zawadski.
Professor of Musicianship and Improvisation at the Royal College of Music and a Lecturer in Music at Kent University, Shirley also teaches at Trinity Laban and the RCM Junior Department. She is a visiting tutor for the National Youth Jazz Collective and an in-demand workshop leader.
Shirley Smart (Cello), Peter Michaels (Guitar), Mike Guy (Accordion), Marcus Penrose (Double Bass).

The Hot Club of Wivenhoe. Bezique: Nu-Gypsy Acoustic Jazz
2025-09-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, Colchester, CO7 9AB, GB
Bezique Promo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDTUtg0Y5PM
“Smart’s playing, both with and without the bow, is exceptional throughout.” – The JazzMann
“A fascinating melting pot of musical influences.” – World Music Central
“. . . she morphs seamlessly from Stephane Grappelli-like swing and Bird-like bebop . . .” Jazzwise
Led by cellist Shirley Smart, Bezique perform a variety of acoustic jazz and café music from around the world. Their repertoire includes material by Django Reinhardt, Richard Galliano, and Bireli Lagrene, as well as original compositions.
They also incorporate an occasional and rarely heard North African flavour to their repertoire through the inclusion of works by the Algerian chaabi pianist Maurice el-Medioni, giving them a uniquely cosmopolitan sound on the UK gypsy jazz scene.
Shirley is recognised as one of the UK’s most versatile and creative cellists, being equally at home and well versed in jazz, Middle Eastern, and classical music.
Originally trained under Raphael Wallfisch at the Guildhall School of Music and Janos Starker in Paris, she subsequently moved to Jerusalem, where she remained for 10 years, studying and performing a wide variety of musical traditions from North Africa, Turkey, and the Middle East. She was also highly active on the jazz scene, working with artists including Avishai Cohen, Omer Avital, and Yasmin Levy.
Since returning to the UK, as well as leading several groups of her own, she has worked with many leading jazz and world music artists, including Antonio Forcione, Mulato Astatke, Gilad Atzmon, Neil Cowley, Julian Ferraretto, Robert Mitchell, and Alice Zawadski.
Shirley Smart (Cello) Peter Michaels (Guitar). Mike Guy (Accordion). Marcus Penrose (Double Bass)

Hibiscus Haze
2025-09-14 18:00 - 21:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Hibiscus Haze, New Single Photo Booth with support from Star Crossed
Join us on Sunday 14th September for a special night on the Top Floor of Three Wise Monkeys as Hibiscus Haze celebrate the release of their brand new single Photo Booth. Expect rising local talent, with support from Star Crossed.
📅 Date: Sunday 14th September� 🕕 Time: Doors 6:00 PM� 📍 Venue: Top Floor, Three Wise Monkeys �🎟️ Tickets: £4 + booking fee
Important Information* Accessibility: Please note that access to the top floor of Three Wise Monkeys does not have a lift. However, there are rest points available between each flight of stairs.
* Lighting: Viewer discretion is advised as the show may contain flashing and strobing lighting effects.
* Refund Policy: Ticket refunds cannot be processed within 7 days of the event. We understand plans may change, but unfortunately we’re unable to accommodate refund requests during this timeframe.

Dog 'Ole Acoustic at The Victoria Inn, Colchester
2025-09-14 17:00 - 20:00 | Victoria Inn Colchester, 10 North Station Rd, Colchester, CO1 1RB, GB
Punk/folk collective who refuse to be put into a musical category and insist that they are #justaband. Loud, bold and full of mischief, Dog ‘Ole have a mix of raucous original songs plus a few covers and are guaranteed to bring the noise.
Our first time playing the Victoria Inn as Dog ‘Ole…though you may recognise us from other acts that play there regularly! We’ll be doing this one as an acoustic show.

Acoustic Showcase
2025-09-14 13:00 - 16:00 | 5-6 St Nicholas St, CO1 1LB Colchester, United Kingdom, 5-6 St Nicholas St, CO1 1LB Colchester, United Kingdom
Join us for an afternoon of incredible live music at the OMB Acoustic Showcase! Starting at 3pm, immerse yourself in a vibrant array of acoustic performances by talented local artists.
Performers:MATT CALDERBANKNATHAN LISGOIF NOT NOWMATT-AS-TROPHE
Time: Music begins at 3pmHost: Sam Young
Come and enjoy a relaxing Sunday filled with soulful tunes and great company. Don’t miss this opportunity to support local musicians and experience some fantastic acoustic sets!
