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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Georgia Crandon
2026-02-15 17:00 - 20:00 | 10 North Station Rd, Colchester
Georgia is back!!!
Georgia Crandon is a rising singer/songwriter with a distinct sound that seamlessly blends elements of retro pop and soul. With a voice that is both powerful and vulnerable, Georgia’s music is a reflection of her own personal experiences and struggles, infused with raw honesty and emotion.
This is a free gig but donations are encouraged.
Let’s keep live music alive!!

My Darling Clementine in Concert
2026-02-15 19:00 - 22:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
THIS GIG HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO WEDNESDAY 10TH JUNE 2026.
Due to scheduling conflicts, this gig has been rescheduled. Tickets for the original February date are valid for the new one.
Tickets £20.Doors open 7pm, starts 7.30pm.This gig is for a seated audience.
For what began as a side project for Michael Weston King & Lou Dalgleish, a simple labour of love, a homage to the classic country duets of the 60’s and 70’s, My Darling Clementine has grown and grown and now some rivals the solo careers of it’s two main protagonists.
Outstanding songwriters and singers individually, who between them have worked with such diverse artists as Nick Cave, Bryan Ferry, The Brodsky Quartet, Steve Earle, Nils Lofgren, Ron Sexsmith, & Graham Parker, together they create harmonious magic and are a formidable musical force.
As well as showcasing brand new songs, the current live show is a deep dive into their extensive and revered back catalogue. Michael and Lou’s songs have been covered by over 40 different artists and featured in various films and TV shows. Lou’s song No Matter What Tammy Said was placed in the top 25 country songs of the 21st Century by Country Music People magazine, while Michael’s song Riding The Range was covered by the late, great Townes Van Zandt.
Given their mutual love of other songwriters, expect a tastefully chosen cover version or two, including something written by Elvis Costello. Their 2021 album Country Darkness, a collection of Costello songs re-interpreted for duet, was made in collaboration with EC’s long standing pianist Steve Nieve.
“King and Dalgleish have re-invented the country duet – The mingling of these two voices is just heavenly” Mojo

Mythical Castle Creatures: Family Tour
2026-02-16 11:00 - 11:45 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
On Mondays to Fridays, from the 16th to the 20th of February, join in on a 45-minute tour at 11 AM and 2.30pm. Experience Colchester Castle like never before on this family-friendly tour that brings folklore and mythical creatures to life. Join us as we embark on a quest to discover dragons, unicorns and other creatures.
Suitable for ages 5+.
Please note the tour includes climbing uneven stairs, crouching to pass through low archways, and some uneven flooring underfoot. For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information.
Tickets are £3.75 per person.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1468734528102140/?event_time_id=1468734531435473

Organ recital
2026-02-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Colchester Town Hall
⁉Did you know that every month, FREE lunchtime organ recitals take place in the Moot Hall within Colchester Town Hall? You can hear the magnificent Moot Hall Organ (which is over 120 years old!!) in the elegant backdrop of (the recently re-opened after major restoration work) Moot Hall ✨
🕰 Time: 1pm⏳Duration: 1hour👛Price: Free! Retiring Collection in aid of the Friends of the Moot Hall Organ
📅 Dates below ⬇17th Feb 10th March 14th April 12th May 9th June 14th July 11th August 15th September 13th October 10th November 8th December
💻Do go and have a look at www.moothallorgan.co.uk which is a brilliant website run by passionate volunteers. It has info about the history of the Moot Hall Organ and more info about the recitals and performers 🎶
📸Image Credits: Friends of the Moot Hall Organ
#Colchester #Essex #MootHallOrgan

Visit the Armoury
2026-02-17 15:00 - 16:30 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
These drop-in sessions run from 3 to 4:30 PM on 17 and 20 February, and from 10:30 AM to 12 PM on 19 February.
Get hands-on with history in the Castle’s Armoury! Try on replica helmets, handle historical weapons, and step into the shoes of knights from the past. Plus, keep an eye out for a special guest… a friendly dragon might just drop by!
Suitable for ages 4+.
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information.
This event is included as part of Castle admission. There’s no need to make a reservation – pop by when the armoury is open.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1422699369517035/?event_time_id=1422699372850368

Drink & Draw: February 2026
2026-02-17 19:00 - 22:30 | The Odd One Out, 28 Mersea Road, Colchester, CO2 7ET, GB
An evening of Drinking and Drawing in the pub. All are welcome!
Bring a sketchbook, something to draw with, and some money for a drink (or two)
See you there!

Projected Digital Image League Competition
2026-02-17 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Appraisal by Alison Jenkins ARPS DPAGB CPAGB/AV BPE1*
Header Image: Keep Out – Mark Kench

Relaxed Opening
2026-02-18 09:30 - 10:30 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
From 9:30 to 10:30 AM, we offer a special session designed for visitors with autism or other sensory sensitivities to enjoy the museum in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. We turn off sounds and visual displays during this time to reduce sensory stimulation.
In the Chapel, we have a quiet area with sensory toys and items, clearly marked as a peaceful space. Visitors can use this area however they feel comfortable, and it’s a supportive, judgment-free environment.
You can also get free ear defenders, visual guides, and twiddlemuffs at the museum’s reception.
Suitable for ages 4+.
For helpful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Colchester Castle has, we recommend reading our Access information.
TicketsThis event is included as part of Castle admission. Admission tickets can be purchased online or on the day.

Meet the Servants
2026-02-19 10:30 - 12:00 | Hollytrees Museum, Hollytrees Museum
Head to Hollytrees Museum on the 19th of February from 10:30 AM to 12 PM for a wonderful experience where you can meet a costumed member of staff and explore real objects used by Georgian servants.
Try washing the old-fashioned way with a dolly peg, dress up as a servant, and discover what life was like 300 years ago! Suitable for ages 4+.
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Hollytrees Museum has, we recommend reading our Access information.
This event is included as part of Hollytrees admission. No booking needed – just drop in and join the fun!

SHOUT OUT to the 60s - Colchester - 19th February 2026 - 7.45 pm
2026-02-19 19:45 - 22:45 | Headgate Theatre, Headgate Theatre
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW
SHOUT OUT to the 60s isComing to The Headgate Theatre, ColchesterThursday 19th February 2026 – 7.45 pmTickets available NOW online:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/headgatetheatre/t-gandnev
Get Ready to step back into the fabulous music of the 1960s with this toe-tapping, twisting, head-shaking’ celebration of the decade’s greatest idols, This show honours the Artistes who made the music of the era unforgettable, from Dusty Springfield, Lulu, Cilla Black, Petula Clark, Aretha Franklin, to the Shirelles, The Supremes, Tina Turner, and many more.
Featuring over thirty beloved hits, the performance takes audiences on an unforgettable journey with timeless songs like River Deep Mountain High, These Boots are made for Walking, Shout, Be My Baby, Walking Back to Happiness, You’re My World and The Locomotion to name a few.
You’ll be dancing in your seat and singing along to every beat
Starring the powerhouse voices and harmonies of former West End singer Sandy Smith and Sophie Mairi, this show is already a hit with audiences across the country, bringing the magic of the 60s to life once again.

Past Toys Craft
2026-02-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Hollytrees Museum, Hollytrees Museum
On 20 February, get creative with your little ones! Make a fun craft inspired by toys from the past and enjoy hands-on history together in this family-friendly activity, with hour and a half sessions at 10:30 AM or 3 PM. This event is suitable for ages 4+.
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities Hollytrees Museum has, we recommend reading our Access Information.
This event is included as part of Hollytrees admission. No booking is required – just drop in and join the fun!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1274965338014576/?event_time_id=1274965344681242

Snowdrops at Beth Chatto Gardens
2026-02-20 10:45 - 13:45 | Beth Chatto’s Plants & Gardens, Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens
A wonderful opportunity to see the famous Beth Chatto gardens in winter and enjoy a guided tour with their Snowdrop expert.The tours will commence at 11am and 12noon respectively.
Ticket includes a hot drink and cake in the tea rooms.
Guests should dress appropriately for the weather on the day.
Parking – free parking available.
Only assistance dogs are welcome in the gardens.Full wheelchair ​access to all areas of the Gardens, Nursery and Visitor areas.Please be aware the main entrance to the gardens is gravel.There is a ramp to the water gardens and the remainder of the gardens are gently sloping lawn or earth and bark paths.On wet days the paths can be muddy and unsuitable for mobility equipment.
Tea Rooms – The tearooms are open for indoor seating as well as takeaway service, with a menu of light refreshments.
Tickets – £20 for members, £22 for non members.

Tree of Life - Mercury Theatre Colchester
2026-02-20 13:00 - 16:00 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
Tree of Life is coming to Mercury Theatre, Colchester this February half term!
Aranyani, the goddess of forests and the wild, is dying. To recover – and if the plants and animals that she supports are to thrive – she must have nourishment and balance in the world. Can a Spiritual Sage and a Scientist – and you, the audience – discover how to save her?
A spectacular South Asian dance theatre show for children aged 7+.
Funded by Arts Council England, DanceEast and CUH-Arts. Supported by Cambridge Junction, Cambridge Curiosity and Imagination, Mercury Theatre and Hertfordshire Libraries.

Mercury Reads: Kingdom Come
2026-02-20 16:00 - 18:00 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
Join us for Mercury Reads a series of lively rehearsed readings celebrating local voices and fresh new writing. Each event spotlights an exciting playwright from our region, giving audiences the chance to see new stories take shape for the very first time.
In this session, join us in the Upstairs Bar on Fri 20 Feb at 4pm as we look at Mercury Reads: Kingdom Come by Lydia Sabatini.
Two women with metastatic cancer enter a cabin in the forest… and see some strange things.
Barb and Claudia are two not-quite-friends in their 70s who head deep into a forest to get some rest and relaxation. They get on well despite their differences: Barb wants to be in nature, Claudia hates dirt and wants to cook and play music.
But when one day Barb returns from the forest totally changed, their different attitudes, to life, illness and family start to come between them, threatening to uproot everything they know about themselves and how they want to spend the time they have left.

COLCHESTER: eXTC 'This is Pop' Greatest Hits Tour
2026-02-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
XTC’s legendary drummer, Terry Chambers, is back on the road with his band EXTC (named and approved by XTC frontman, Andy Partridge).
Emerging out of the post-punk and new-wave explosion of the late 70s, XTC experienced global success touring with the likes of The Police and Talking Heads. Sadly, their legions of loyal fans would be left in limbo when in 1982 XTC stopped touring, becoming a studio-based entity.
EXTC were formed in 2019 by XTC’s drummer Terry Chambers, performing classic XTC material such as Making Plans For Nigel, Senses Working Overtime, Mayor of Simpleton, Generals and Majors, Sgt. Rock (Is Going To Help Me), Love on a Farmboy’s Wages and many more.
An AGMP Concerts presentation.

SLS Presents… Live Music Night at Three Wise Monkeys
2026-02-20 19:00 - 22:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Get ready for an epic night of live tunes and good vibes at Three Wise Monkeys!
Join us for a live music night at Three Wise Monkeys Colchester, featuring a curated lineup of independent artists across contemporary genres. All proceeds from this event go to Nordoff & Robbins, supporting music therapy services across the UK.
Featuring performances from:PeonieMarianne LeighFlores BlueLeon O’Leary

Slayè Takeover
2026-02-20 19:00 - 22:00 | The Dragonfly Lounge, The Dragonfly Lounge
Time for another Haus of Slayè Takeover at The Dragonfly Lounge ✨✨✨
We’re going to have a wild time! Head over to www.dragonflylounge.co.uk to book tickets! 💋

EXTC 'THIS IS POP' *
2026-02-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £26.50.Doors open 7.00pm, starts 7.30pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
Age guidance: 14+
XTC’s legendary drummer, Terry Chambers, is back on the road with his band EXTC (named and approved by XTC frontman, Andy Partridge).
Emerging out of the post-punk and new-wave explosion of the late 70s, XTC experienced global success touring with the likes of The Police and Talking Heads. Sadly, their legions of loyal fans would be left in limbo when in 1982 XTC stopped touring, becoming a studio-based entity.
EXTC were formed in 2019 by XTC’s drummer Terry Chambers, performing classic XTC material such as Making Plans Fo

Urban Wineries (Colchester)
2026-02-20 19:30 - 22:30 | No 10 Museum St, No 10 Museum St
Discover a different side of English wine at this guided tasting, showcasing seven wonderful wines crafted in urban wineries across England. From railway arches and converted warehouses to a windmill basement, these producers are redefining what English winemaking looks like, bringing creativity, innovation, and a distinctly modern edge to the glass.
Throughout the evening, you will taste a carefully curated selection of still and sparkling wines, exploring how grapes from English vineyards are transformed in urban environments to create distinctive, characterful wines. Learn about the winemakers behind the bottles, the vineyards they work with, and why city-based wineries are becoming one of the most exciting movements in English wine today.
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.
Ticket price 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.

Stumpy Sanderson's 1970s Jamboree Bag
2026-02-20 19:45 - 22:45 | Headgate Theatre, Headgate Theatre
Remember the 1970s?
Hilarious stories, memories and songs about the outrageous 1970s japes, scrapes and capers got up to and into by Stumpy Sanderson and his gang of mischievous working-class boys.
Hear all about such astonishing events as ‘The Strange Case of Smiler Morton’, what happened when chaos was unleashed by Puffer Patterson’s anarchic play during the end of year 5th Form Revue, and the enduring influence on the gang of such 70s cultural giants as Blakey from ‘On the Buses’ and Bendy Henderson’s next-door neighbour, Mrs Butterfield.
Plus, many more downright wacky escapades, including such songs as ‘The Bonfire of the Dr Scholl’s Sandals’!
If you grew up in the 1970s or love the1970s, then you will love this show.
Tickets are on sale now from the Theatre Box Office.
Groovy…

Portrait - Drawing workshop - Colchester 10am-13pm
2026-02-21 10:00 - 13:00 | The Hythe Community Centre, The Hythe Community Centre
Would you like to learn how to draw a portrait?
Foundations of DrawingExplore the fundamental principles of drawing, from mastering lines and shapes to understanding detailed shading.
No Experience RequiredThis workshop is open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned artists looking to refine their skills. My step-by-step lessons are easy to follow, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the workshops. My goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone can explore the joy of drawing.
Personalised feedback and supportTraining aims to help you progress artistically at your own pace and increase your confidence in a supportive environment. Each student is nurtured and encouraged to develop their skills.
All materials providedGraphite pencils, erasers, paper and reference pictures.
ParkingFree parking by the hall
Price£18 per person
VenueHythe Community Centre, Ventura Drive, Colchester, CO1 2FG
BookingThere are only 15 places per workshop. Please book on my website:https://mariyamcallister.com/all-events/
Please contact me if you have any issues with your booking. You should receive a booking confirmation email after payment.
Contactartist@mariyamcallister.com07745110027

A day of chess in the Moot Hall
2026-02-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Colchester Town Hall
The Mayor of Colchester invites you to the Moot Hall for a day of chess. Whether you’re a seasoned chess master, a complete beginner, or just looking for a fun family day out, there is something for everyone. FREE with donations to the Mayor’s Charities encouraged*.
Guaranteed entry only through tickets in advance, invitation by the schools involved and for Championship players. Otherwise, free entry on the day from 10am if numbers permit.
A full day of activities, including:
• Exhibition Game: A highly anticipated match (at least by the players) between Colchester’s Mayor, Mike Lilley, and Member of Parliament, Pam Cox, showcasing a high-level strategic duel. It is planned for mid-afternoon.
• Championship Chess Tournament: For serious competitors vying for glory, the Mayor’s Colchester Chess Rapidplay Championship Trophy is the target. Players and spectators can enjoy six rounds of fast-paced competition. It starts at 09:00 with registration. There is a fee for this tournament and some restrictions on entry (‘ECF Gold membership’). More information from contact@colchesster.org.uk or for online entry go direct to https://congress.org.uk/congress/724/home
• Schools’ Chess Event: Run by national charity Chess in Schools and Communities, offering engaging activities to introduce primary school children to the joy of chess and improve their play. Participation is organised through the schools but if you have a child in years 3 to 6 who is keen on chess you can also email contact@colchesster.org.uk for more information.
• Social Chess Playing: A relaxed setting for players of any standard to enjoy friendly games, meet fellow enthusiasts, and simply enjoy the game without the pressure of formal competition. Boards and pieces are provided but feel free to bring your own.Play is likely to start up mid-morning unless players ‘castle early’.
• Local Chess Club Information: Spectators and players interested in continuing their chess journey can learn more about Colchester’s vibrant chess scene, with representatives from numerous local clubs and meetups available to provide information.
The running order for the day will be decided depending on the number of competitors in the Rapidplay Tournament and the timing of some optional seminars and activities. More information nearer the day!
*Donations may be made when acquiring a ticket but transactions costs may be avoided by donating on the day. For more info on the Mayor’s Charities see https://www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor-town-hall-heritage/?id=&page=the–mayor%E2%80%99s–charities–and–events
