Theatre and Stage Shows

Catch a great show on your visit to Colchester at one of the city's fantastic Theatres and Performing Arts venues. For show-stopping touring productions, visit the Mercury Theatre. Looking for an intimate venue? Check out the cosy 81 seat Headgate Theatre. If you're in the market for world-class comedians or top-tier tribute bands, head over to Charter Hall.

From traditional stage plays to one-man shows, stand up comedy, or even something more experimental, Colchester is host to a great selection of theatre and stage shows throughout the year. In the summer months you can often get out of the traditional venues and find something in the open air at one Colchesters rural attractions too.

Browse our listings below to find what shows are on now and coming up in Colchester.

Can't find anything here? You may also be interested in checking out what live music is coming up.

Daniel O'Reilly: Let's Have It Nov 08

Coming off the back of a 62 date sold-out tour, selling over 40,000 tickets; Daniel is embarking on his next national show and is bringing it to a venue near you! Hold on to your seats and brace yourself for a night of outrageous laughs and no-holds-barred comedy, as the one and…

Lost Atoms Nov 08

Lost Atoms  tells the story of a relationship: an extraordinary, transformative love. Or is that only in hindsight? Perhaps it was just typical? Or toxic? Or doomed from the start?  One thing’s for sure: It changed their lives. Two people plunge deep into their…

Our Walk Through The World Nov 08

First performed in London in 2013, Our Walk Through the World is a collection of six short plays exploring the absurdities, tragedies and small victories of modern life. Dark, irreverent and very funny. "This play is the real deal... always bracingly unpredictable!…

A Christmas Carol Nov 12

On a cold Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by three spirits who lead him on a journey through his past, present and future. As he confronts the life he's lived and the man he might become, a playful ensemble brings the story to life with warmth, wit and festive flair…

MILTON JONES: HA!MILTON Nov 12

He has more important things to discuss. Like giraffes…and there's a bit about tomatoes. You might know him from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo or Radio 4. Or that time he stood for the Scottish National Party, fought a hard campaign, but in the end had to respect the…

KEVIN BLOODY WILSON: DiLLiGAF LEGEND, LiVE Nov 15

It's been more than 40 years since Kevin Bloody Wilson dropped his very first album – the one that went quadruple platinum and cemented him as a musical comedy icon! Fast forward 20 albums later, and this Aussie legend's international fan base just keeps growing, proving…

Mark Watson: Before It Overtakes Us Nov 16

Tickets £24. Doors open 7pm, show starts 7.30pm.   20 years in stand-up for the 'Taskmaster' cheeky texts icon, multi-award-winner, YouTube cult figure, Radio 4 favourite and recently 'Baby Reindeer' actor: Watson returns after seasons at the Adelaide…

Easy Virtue Nov 19

When young John Whittaker announces he is bringing home his new bride, his snobbish mother and sisters are delighted... until they meet her! A sophisticated older woman with a scandalous past, a battle of wills ensues in this sharp expose of social hypocrisy. Written with Noel…

Mother Goose Nov 22

Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth! A panto perfect for the whole family. To celebrate ten golden years of the legendary duo Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville, the Mercury Theatre present the mother of all pantos – Mother Goose! Gertie…

An Evening with Jack the Ripper Nov 27

Award-winning producer and broadcaster Steve Morgan has captivated thousands with his celebrated 'Ripper walks' through London's East End. Now adapted for the stage, An Evening with Jack the Ripper delves into the sordid realms of Victorian London in an attempt to…

The Comedy Store Nov 28

With 40 years' experience in the business and as the premier name in comedy, The Comedy Store is renowned as a breeding ground for new comedy talent, and remains the place to see tomorrow's stars today. The likes of John Bishop, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Sarah…

Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can't Take It Nov 30

Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can’t Take It Hal is back with a brand-new tour for 2025 with a show that promises to stick it to ‘The Man’, as long as ‘The Man’ doesn’t stick it back to him.    With his trademark hard-hitting…

Grace Petrie - THIS IS NO TIME TO PANIC! Dec 02

Like protest songs? Neither does Grace Petrie - and she's been singing them for 15 politically disastrous years. No longer able to meet the deadened eyes or desperate hopes of leftwing audiences, she reckons there's no better time for a feel-good show! Depressed by…

Goldilocks and the Three Bears Dec 03

A family pantomime packed with fun and laughter! Goldilocks loves Silly Billy, and together they plan to save Dame Gertie's Circus—with a little help from three dancing bears! Can they outwit the wicked Ringmaster Heinkel and rescue Baby Bear? Suitable for ages 3+

Stephen K Amos: Now We're Talking Dec 06

How good’s a laugh? Stephen K Amos' joke book is overflowing, so let’s get talking about what gives him the ick and what makes him tick. It’s time to get down to the nitty gritty. No filter, no limits. The gloves are off and I’m packing a…

Shrek the Musical Dec 13

This award-winning musical brings to life the world of Shrek live on stage in an unforgettable production to melt hearts of all ages. Dreamwork's spectacular musical is based on their much-loved Oscar winning animated film. See the original story live on stage, join Shrek and…

Ghost Stories for Christmas Dec 20

The best place by the festive fireside was always reserved for the storyteller. Join Edwyrdian Tales for an evening of haunting dark delights set during Christmastide. This year's night of seasonal spirits features chilling tales from classic authors M.R. James and Marjorie…

A Christmas Carol Dec 21

Anthony brings Dickens' beloved festive tale to life in a funny and dramatic word-perfect recital, accompanied by pianist Jamie Cunliffe. Through Dickens' own evocative language, experience Scrooge's ghostly journey of redemption on the streets of old London. A…

A Christmas Carol by Candlelight (BSL Interpreted) Dec 23

Colchester Arts Centre Director Anthony Roberts’ traditional rendition of the Dickens classic, with musical accompaniment by Jamie Cunliffe. Hear this wonderful timeless tale in the beautiful surroundings of a Victorian church, with the only illumination provided by…

A Christmas Carol By Candlelight Dec 24

Colchester Arts Centre Director Anthony Roberts’ traditional rendition of the Dickens classic, with musical accompaniment by Jamie Cunliffe. Hear this wonderful timeless tale in the beautiful surroundings of a Victorian church, with the only illumination provided by…

Jack off the Beanstalk Jan 23

Get ready for the udderly cheeky, naughtiest version of Jack and the Beanstalk you have ever dared to see! Warning: this is not your childhood fairy tale, unless your bedtime stories came with a parental advisory. Dame Trott's farm is a mess, and Jack's only hope is at…