The Ticket Magazine

TICKET THE

SUMMER/AUTUMN 2021

www.colchester-events.co.uk

HE’S COMING HOME

Olly Murs heads to Castle Park for Summer Tour

The Great Outdoors

Fabulous festivals you won’t want to miss!

r You ok o l new ’s On’ t a ‘Wh e from Guid hester Colc ents Ev

MUSIC, COMEDY & MORE! UK’s Top Stand-Ups - in their own words P28 Jason Donovan comes to Charter Hall P27 Top 10 BBQ Tips from a Pitmaster pro! P11

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THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

!

WELCOME

S

ummer is finally here and with it the good news that, with lockdown restrictions lifting, we can begin to enjoy open-air events and great nights out in Colchester once again.

What better way to celebrate new beginnings than with the launch of The Ticket, our new look events guide? Inside you’ll find all the great music, comedy, festivals, talks, sport and more coming to Colchester this summer and autumn.

We’re sure there’s something here for everyone and look forward to seeing you soon.

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CONTENTS 4

A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME A selection of shows from our latest guide

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OLLY MURS Countdown to Olly’s homecoming show in Castle Park

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Find your fave local festivals of the summer

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AN EVENING WITH… Two modern day explorers to share their life stories

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PULL OUT EVENTS GUIDE What’s On In Colchester – your pull out guide to all our summer/ autumn events

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GETTING TO KNOW… JASON DONOVAN The Aussie heart-throb’s long awaited tour comes to Charter Hall

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE The biggest names in comedy head to Charter Hall

HOW TO FIND US 43 Discover our venues www.colchester-events.co.uk

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A TASTE OF

WHAT’S TO COME

Think you know what goes on in Colchester?

There might be a few surprises here - head to page 19 for the full listings.

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ANTI LOO ROLL FESTIVAL Scouting For Girls will be headlining at the first ever Colchester Anti Loo Roll Festival on Saturday 11 September at Lower Castle Park.

Matt Cardle, Twist and Pulse, Jake Quickenden and Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Steve Hewlett also appear on the INColchester Stage whilst the Cabaret Stage will feature a great mix of comedy, ventriloquists, tribute acts and game shows.

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A fu pack n day ed the w for h fami ole ly!

WHO AM I? BRIDGET CHRISTIE Put your hands together for Bridget Christie! A first-timer to Charter Hall, Bridget brings her brand-new stand up show, Who Am I? Star of her own Netflix special ‘Stand Up for Her’ and BBC Radio 4 series, ‘Bridget Christie Minds the Gap’, sit back and enjoy the wit and wisdom of ‘one of the finest comedians around’ (The Independent).

THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

COMING UP

Do you er rememb e th 1980’s?

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BEN FOGLE AND RALPH FIENNES

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As many nervously await A level results day – take heart from these two modern day explorers who do not have an A Level between them! It didn’t stop them reaching incredible heights!

You can hear their amazing tales of adventure for yourselves at Charter Hall this autumn.

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JASON DONOVAN It was the decade when Jason Donovan secured pop stardom with his first solo No. 1 ‘Too many broken hearts’ and his debut album, ‘Ten Good Reasons’. Thirty years on, Jason’s heading to Charter Hall to perform hits from across the decades.

All the cks best tra h t from e 90s!

JOHN BISHOP ‘RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW’ Comedy superstar John Bishop is bringing his hotlyanticipated new show ‘Right Here, Right Now’ to Charter Hall this October.

Bishop has funny bones’  - The Times

‘FRANKLY HILARIOUS’  - DAILY TELEGRAPH

Tickets are on sale now!

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JO WHILEY 90S ANTHEMS Superstar DJ, radio & TV presenter Jo Whiley is bringing her impressive music knowledge and own brand of cool to Charter Hall to bring you all the best tracks from the 90s - think Blur vs Oasis, Fatboy Slim, Primal Scream, The Verve, The Chemical Brothers, Faithless, The Prodigy and a whole lot more.

www.colchester-events.co.uk

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SPECIAL FEATURE

HE’S COMING HOME

L

ike thousands of ticket holders across Essex and beyond, we’re counting down the days until Olly Murs comes to Castle Park for his homecoming spectacular show on Bank Holiday Sunday, 29 August.

Essex-boy Olly, who shot to fame on the sixth series of ITV’s X Factor, will be performing his biggest hits, including Heart Skips a Beat, Dear Darlin’ and Dance With Me, as well as tracks from his latest triple platinum album Never Been Better.

Olly announced this event last October as part of his huge 25-date UK tour for this summer.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to announce this tour”, said Olly who

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THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

Sunday 29 Aug ust 2021

was born in Witham and still lives in Essex. “It’s been such a tough year for everyone, and I can’t wait to get back out on the road and entertain my fans.

To finish the tour in my hometown will be the perfect way to sign off the summer.

We’re definitely going to be celebrating in Colchester next August!”

With so much of 2020 and 2021 coming to a standstill due to the Covid-19 pandemic, his summer shows aim to put a smile back on the face of the country.

Colchester Events is absolutely thrilled to welcome Olly to Castle Park and to host his homecoming tour is a great endorsement of this stunning outdoor venue. The town should be proud that Colchester continues to cement its

reputation for attracting top performers and acts touring the UK. This is a fantastic opportunity for Olly’s home crowd to enjoy a spectacular concert close to home! Let’s get set to give Olly the warmest of welcomes this August.

It’s been a busy year for Olly, who recently captained England in the 2020 Soccer Aid, and is looking to retain his crown as winning judge on his third series of The Voice.

In lockdown, he also managed an impressive body transformation, working closely with personal trainer Rob Solly, and sharing his fitness routine exclusively with Men’s Health. Olly is also working on new music to be shared later this year.

Ex-Towie star Mark Wright to DJ at Olly Murs’ concert TV personality and presenter Mark Wright will be the support act for Olly Murs’ Castle Park concert, performing a live DJ set.

Mark rose to fame on TOWIE before starring in various TV shows including I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! and Strictly Come Dancing.

Liz Doogan-Hobbs, chief executive of Grandslam Live Ltd said: “We are delighted Mark Wright will be joining Olly in Colchester. It’s been such a tough year for everyone with no live events being able to take place and we know with Mark performing with Olly it will be one epic party bank holiday weekend.”

“I CAN’T TELL YOU HOW EXCITED I AM TO ANNOUNCE THIS TOUR”

NOT GOT YOUR TICKETS YET? VISIT WWW.COLCHESTEREVENTS.CO.UK/OLLYMURS/ VIP PACKAGES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE! www.colchester-events.co.uk

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OUTDOOR FESTIVALS

The great

OUTDOORS

Let’s celebrate summer by heading to Colchester’s outdoor venues for some awesome outdoor entertainment.

NEARLY FESTIVAL AT OLD HEATH Dedicated to the finest tribute bands around, the ever popular ‘Nearly Festival’ returns to Colchester’s Old Heath Recreation Ground on 31 July - 1 August.

This family-friendly two-day festival experience features fantastic acts live on stage, a dedicated Kids’ Zone to keep youngsters busy all day, a delicious Street Food Market with an amazing choice of foods and a chilled Pub In The Park!

Experience the UK’s best touring live bands and soloists performing tributes to Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, Oasis, The Stone Roses, Beyonce, Coldplay, Madness, Take That, Kasabian, Blur, Kaizer Chiefs, The Specials, Rita Ora, The Beatles and more.

A great day out for any music lover.

COLCHESTER MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL For history and fun with a good dash of excitement, this popular event brings medieval England to beautiful Castle Park from 31 July to 1 August.

Be entertained by The Medieval Siege Society with its colourful marquees and ‘living history’ exhibitions and watch actors perform a ‘Mummers’ folk play. Enjoy birds of prey flying displays, live music, puppet shows, archery and an array of food and drink.

www. colchester-events.co.uk/ event/nearly-festival/ 8

THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/medieval-festival/

ve With li tra orches

IBIZA CLASSICS Ibiza Orchestra Live is heading to Colchester for the very first time, bringing its distinctive blend of Balearic beats to Castle Park.

Ibiza Classics 2021 features a live 26-piece orchestra performing a soundtrack that will transport listeners through three decades of iconic White Isle classics. Look out for Platinum-selling DJ and producer, Dario G who will perform the warmup set with sunny melodies to boost the feel-good energy.

Dario G’s track record in the global dance scene is undisputed, with millions of record sales and a string of international hits to his name including club classic Sunchyme.

Tom Cullen, Ibiza Orchestra Live said: “We’re delighted that we are able to bring Ibiza Orchestra Live to an amazing town like Colchester. This will really kick start the summer and the re-birth of cultural events in the local area after a tough year for the events industry.”

It all takes place on Saturday 25 September from 4pm. Strictly over 18s only! www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/ibiza-orchestra/

THE BIG WEEKEND

DON ’T MISS

Enjoy a big weekend of live music and entertainment at the Bowls Green, Castle Park from 13-15 August. With fun and inflatables on Family Friday; chilled out beats throughout Summer Saturday and Spanish cuisine, Latin dancers and entertainment on Salsa Sunday. www.colchester-events.co.uk

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Smoke and Fire FESTIVAL A flaming great day out with family and friends

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he UK’s largest BBQ Festival is in Castle Park this summer for a weekend of fire, fun and flavour.

The three-day event, on 20-22 August, will feature the first British Open BBQ Championships and Oasish, the UK’s no.1 Oasis tribute act.

Watch and learn from some of the most skilled and experienced fire cooks and BBQ pitmasters from Britain, New York, Chicago and Ireland with live demonstrations, masterclasses and tasters on the Feast of Fire cooking stage.

Visit BBQ Alley hosted by barbecue food writer and teacher, Marcus Bawdon and discover the latest trends in the barbecue world, new techniques and kit and the grilling secrets that will help anyone raise their outdoor cooking game.

Wine and dine at award-winning street food stalls from around the world, enjoy real ale, cider and cocktails, and relax in the Wildfire Lounge.

A weekend at Smoke & Fire Festival will spark an everlasting interest in the alchemy and techniques of cooking with smoke and fire. With hot wing and chilli eating competitions, live music, DJs, dancing, children’s fun and entertainment, the Smoke & Fire Festival is the ultimate family day out this summer and an event not to be missed.

The British Open BBQ Championships™ Thirty teams and individuals from the UK and Europe will compete to be crowned the undisputed British BBQ Champion in the competition for all fire lovers.

Teams will be cooking in eight categories including steak, ribs, plant-based and dessert, which will be judged on taste, tenderness, texture, creativity and skill.

www.smokeandfirefestival.com

“Our aim at Smoke & Fire Festival is to tear up the rule book and create something that’s a taste sensation whilst delivering an engaging experience for each and every one of our visitors” Ashley Peniston - Bird, Smoke & Fire Festival Director 10

THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

TOP TEN

OUTDOOR FESTIVALS

BBQ & GRILLING TIPS FROM JASON LATHAM OF LOVE FROM THE STREETS To bring a bit of ‘Smoke and Fire’ magic to your home barbecue, we asked award winning Pitmaster and winner of Fire Cook of the Year, Jason Latham, to share his Top 10 BBQ Tips with readers!

Jason and his ‘Love from the Streets’ team, will be running the VIP Lounge catering at this year’s Smoke and Fire Festival.

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Preparation! Give yourself enough time to cook safely and set yourself realistic goals.

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Marinate meat, fish & vegetables this is where the real pros stand out. It can be very simple, and there are lots of good rubs and marinades on the market.

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Bringing meat to room temperature prior to cooking allows food to cook more evenly and makes more space in the fridge for your beers and Prosecco!

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Patience - an old BBQ saying – ‘If you are looking, you are not cooking’ - If you keep opening the lid, it slows down the cooking and changes the temperature.

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Grilling - A nice bed of charcoal stacked higher on one side of the grill and lower on the other will give you two different cooking temperatures; making it easier to control the cooking.

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Like your Mum said… ‘Don’t play with your food.’ So often, you see people poking, turning & squashing the meat within an inch of its life. Allow the food to cook and retain as much natural moisture as possible. Make sure you rest the meat after cooking to allow the sealed and cooked meat to settle, retain all the moisture, keep the amazing flavour.

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Know your heat - Heat management is key to a great BBQ; no one likes black and burnt on the outside and raw in the middle. Those days of UK BBQ have gone – it’s not 1980!

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A food probe is a must! - It’s an important and often overlooked cooking tool. You don’t have to spend a fortune but get a good one. Knowing the safe cooking temperatures of meat and fish is a must and can easily be found on the internet.

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Have fun! - BBQ brings family and friends together; it makes those special memories. If you don’t enjoy it, what’s the point?

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Choose the right fuel - Charcoal and wood are perfect for a BBQ, but different wood & charcoal add different flavours. Treat wood & charcoal as an ingredient. UK sustainable is my personal favourite. www.colchester-events.co.uk

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OUTDOOR FESTIVALS

SAUSAGE & CIDER FEST Calling all sausage and cider lovers!

You’re in for a treat this summer at the Sausage and Cider Fest!

At Lower Castle Park on Friday 24 September you can enjoy a day of amazing ciders, including traditional craft varieties and well-known brands, along with prosecco, beers and other favourites. There’ll be sizzling sausages from around the UK and will you dare take the chilli eating challenge?

Throughout the day sit back and enjoy a cool summer soundtrack from amazing local and tribute bands who can’t wait to plug in their amps and entertain live audiences once again!

ANTI LOO ROLL FESTIVAL The first ever Colchester Anti Loo Roll Brigade Festival comes to Castle Park on Saturday 11 September from 12pm -8pm.

Scouting for Girls headlines the INColchester Stage, where TV presenter Craig Stevens will welcome many famous faces including X Factor winner Matt Cardle, Britain’s Got Talent stars Twist & Pulse, X Factor’s Jake Quickenden and Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Steve Hewlett.

This fun-packed day for the whole family sees a great mix of comedy, ventriloquists, tribute acts and game shows on the Cabaret stage. Plus enjoy the food area, children’s zone, entertainers and lots more. www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/anti-loo-roll-festival/ 12

THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

ly Strict 8s over 1 only! www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/ colchester/

www.colchester events.co.uk 13

LIFE STORIES

AN EVENING WITH...

This autumn we welcome Ben Fogle and Sir Ranulph Fiennes to Charter Hall. Audiences can enjoy two fabulously informative and entertaining evenings from these hugely inspiring speakers.

BEN FOGLE Tales From The Wilderness Described by the BBC as an ‘adventurer in a class of his own’, we are super excited that Ben Fogle is heading to Charter Hall to share his stories of the wilderness.

The much-loved TV adventurer will recount, with warmth and honesty, his thrilling tales from crossing Antarctica, rowing across the Atlantic ocean and conquering Everest to swimming with crocodiles, saving elephants, dodging pirates and being marooned for a year on an uninhabited island.

If you like Ben’s TV shows then you’ll love this personal and intimate evening of stories from around the world.

‘FUNNY, ENTERTAINING & REALLY RATHER INSPIRING TOO’ - Daily Mail ‘A WHOLESOME, ETHICAL, ENVIRONMENTAL ADVENTURER’ - The Guardian www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/ben-fogle/

RANULPH FIENNES Living Dangerously Named by The Guinness Book of Records as ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’, Sir Ranulph Fiennes has spent his life in pursuit of extreme adventure; inspiring generations and risking life and limb in some of the most ambitious private expeditions ever undertaken.

He was the first person to summit Everest, reach both Poles, cross the Antarctic and Arctic Ocean and circumnavigate the world along its polar axis!

Both light-hearted and strikingly poignant, Living Dangerously, at Charter Hall on 28 October, offers a personal journey through Sir Ranulph’s life, spanning his early childhood and school misdemeanours, his army life, the Transglobe Expedition and his current Global Reach Challenge; making him a pioneer of exploration with an unparalleled story to tell. www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/sir-ranulph-fiennes/ www.colchester-events.co.uk 15

COLCHESTER CHARTER HALL 8 SEPTEMBER 2021

COLCHESTER CHARTER HALL 2 OCTOBER 2021

www.colchester events.co.uk 17

SHE’S BACK & BETTER THAN EVER...

Visit the newly refurbished historic hotel featuring stylish rooms, suites, bar, restaurant, lounge and Secret Courtyard - all in the heart of Colchester, Essex

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T: 01206 578494 IG: thegeorgehotelcolchester W: www.suryahotels.co.uk The George Hotel, 116 High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TD

THE TICKET - Summer 2021

PULL OUT GUIDE

What’s on Colchester in

Here’s Your Pull-Out Guide to all events taking place at Charter Hall, Castle Park, Colchester Town Hall and Old Heath Recreation Ground.

1 August to 30 November 2021

www.colchester-events.co.uk 19

MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL 31 July - 1 August 10.30am-5pm Various Castle Park This popular event brings medieval England to Castle Park. Be entertained by living history exhibitions, ‘Mummers’ folk plays, birds of prey, live music, puppet shows and archery.

SMOKE AND FIRE FESTIVAL 20 - 22 August Various From £9 (adult) Castle Park See top BBQ chefs and open-fire cookery pitmasters give live demonstrations and masterclasses. Feast on an array of BBQ’d cooked food and enjoy live music, DJs, children’s fun, games and entertainment.

NEARLY FESTIVAL 31 July - 1 August Gates 12 noon Various Old Heath

THE BIG WEEKEND 13 - 15 August Gates 12 noon Various Bowls Green, Castle Park

The Nearly Festival returns to the Old Heath Recreation Ground with a two-day family festival experience. Enjoy superb acts live on stage, a dedicated ‘Kids’ Zone’, delicious Street Food Market and the Pub in the Park.

Live music & entertainment at the Bowls Green, Castle Park from 13-15 August.

There’s fun and inflatables on Family Friday; chilled out beats on Summer Saturday and Spanish food, dancers and entertainment on Salsa Sunday.

OLLY MURS

ECO FESTIVAL

29 August Gates 4pm From £39.50 Castle Park Olly is coming to Castle Park for a huge homecoming spectacular show as part of his UK tour. Olly will perform his biggest hits, including tracks from his recently certified triple platinum album ‘Never Been Better’.

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4 September Various Free Castle Park A FREE festival organised by local volunteers for the community to come together, be entertained, take part in and discover new ways of doing things more sustainably.

ESSEX CLASSIC VEHICLE SHOW 5 September 10.30am - 4.30pm From £3 Castle Park Over 220 classic vehicles from across the decades, with a combined vehicle history of over 7,000 years, will be on display!

Organised by Headway Essex.

CHAMPIONSHIP XTREME WRESTLING #SUPERSHOWONE 11 September 6pm - 10pm Varied Charter Hall A jam-packed super-show of British professional wrestling, this feast of action will be fun for all the family as top performers compete in the squared circle.

THE HAY WAIN, CASTLE PARK THEATRE

PSYCHIC SALLY - 10 YEARS AND COUNTING

8 - 18 September Gates 7pm From £14 Castle Park

8 September 7.30pm From £23.50 Charter Hall Wowing audiences young and old across the country for over 10 years, Sally’s show will have you on the edge of your seat, as she brings mediumship into the 21st century.

To mark the 200th anniversary of John Constable’s famous painting, The Hay Wain is a modern fable of times past and a window into a bygone age.

ANTI LOO ROLL FESTIVAL

BEN FOGLE – TALES FROM THE WILDERNESS

11 September Gates 12 noon Varied Castle Park Celebrate Colchester’s great community at this fun-packed day for the whole family. Features great music, bands, comedy, ventriloquists, tribute acts and game shows.

17 September 7.30pm From £27.50 Charter Hall Thrilling tales from a modern day explorer.

From crossing Antarctica to conquering Everest, Ben takes audiences on an inspiring adventure.

www.colchester-events.co.uk 21

SAUSAGE AND CIDER FESTIVAL 24 September 5.30pm – 10.30pm From £25 Castle Park Join us for an amazing range of craft ciders from some of the UKs best producers and discover an amazing range of stunning sausages with some incredible flavours to choose from. Strictly over 18s only.

JASON MANFORD - LIKE ME 25 September Start 7.30pm From £32 Charter Hall It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show.

Jason’s latest comic offering promises ‘expert observational comedy’ mixed with ‘comic gold’.

THE ROCK ORCHESTRA BY CANDLELIGHT 24 September Start 7pm Varied Charter Hall Join us on a journey through the biggest Rock & Metal tracks of the last 30 years, performed in stunning, candlelit surroundings.

WEDDING FAIR 26 September 11am - 4pm Free Town Hall Looking for your perfect wedding? Discover all that Colchester Town Hall can offer for your big day and chat with our friendly and experienced Weddings Team.

22 THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

IBIZA ORCHESTRA LIVE 25 September 4pm – 10.30pm Varied Castle Park Ibiza Orchestra Live is heading to Colchester for the very first time.

Immerse yourself in the some of the most amazing classic Ibiza tracks all performed by a full live 26-piece orchestra.

THE COLCHESTER KILO 26 September 10am - 4pm From £2 Charter Hall Come and shop tonnes of sustainable, vintage, retro and branded fashion for just £15 per kilo! We’ll be adding fresh stock to the rails all day! Please wear a face covering and bring your own bag.

JO WHILEY - 90S ANTHEMS 1 October 7.30pm From £19.50 Charter Hall Superstar DJ, radio & TV presenter ‘Jo Whiley’ brings you all the best 90s tracks - think Blur, Oasis, Fatboy Slim, Primal Scream, The Verve, The Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy and more.

GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN 8 October Start 7.30pm From £28 Charter Hall From the writers of hit sketch show Hormonal Housewives comes this brand-new musical comedy that’s jam packed with your favourite nightout anthems.

ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS – LEE MEMPHIS KING 2 October 6.30pm From £26 Charter Hall Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, recreates the essence of Elvis with a winning combination of stunningly accurate vocals and passion.

JIMEOIN

RACE FOR LIFE 3 October From 11.30am Varied Castle Park This is not a race. This is a 5k like no other. This is thousands of people uniting with one purpose.

To come together. To raise money. To beat cancer. Everyone can join in, including dogs!

JOHN BISHOP – RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

13 October Start 7.30pm From £18.50 Charter Hall A brilliant evening of world-class comedy from the Irishman internationally celebrated as one of live stand-up’s true masters. You won’t want to miss this hilarious show!

19 October Start 8pm £38 Charter Hall This highly anticipated brand-new show will be John’s eighth stand up show and it’s shaping up to be his best yet.

‘Frankly hilarious’ Daily Telegraph.

www.colchester-events.co.uk 23

JIM DAVIDSON – UNLOCKED 22 October 7.30pm From £26 Charter Hall

THE BIG 90S FESTIVAL 22 October 5.30pm - 10.30pm Varied Castle Park

OKTOBERFEST 23 October Afternoon and evening sessions Varied Castle Park

After months of lockdown, and with the comedy pressure valve set to explode, the people’s favourite is back with a brand-new show for 2021!

Back for 2021 with BIGGER acts, chart topping DJs, epic light shows, glow sticks and much more!

Experience the real Oktoberfest atmosphere with live oompah bands, steins of beer and the all important Bratwurst!

JASON DONOVAN – EVEN MORE GOOD REASONS

PAUL SMITH – CHANGED

SIR RANULPH FIENNES – LIVING DANGEROUSLY

24 October Start 8pm From £26 Charter Hall Jason Donovan brings his 30th anniversary solo tour to Colchester to perform his biggest musical and pop hits with a full live band!

27 October Start 7.30pm From £23 Charter Hall A lot has changed for Paul in recent years.

Join him for his third and largest ever tour of the UK and Ireland for a mix of sharp, hilarious life stories with his trademark off the cuff wit.

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28 October Start 7.30pm From £30 Charter Hall Sir Ranulph is a pioneer of exploration with an unparalleled story to tell. Enjoy a personal journey through his life, from early childhood and army career to his current Global Reach Challenge.

SARAH MILLICAN – BOBBY DAZZLER 4 November 8.00pm £29 SOLD OUT Charter Hall The hilarious Sarah Millican is back on tour with a Bobby Dazzler of a new stand-up show in this, her sixth international tour.

CALLING PLANET EARTH 13 November 7:30pm From £23.50 Charter Hall A New Romantic Symphony, this must see show defines a decade - the Electrifying 80s!

An incredible live band combines awesome symphonic arrangements with stunning vocals.

COLCHESTER CASTLE PARK FIREWORK DISPLAY

ED BYRNE – IF I’M HONEST… 11 November 8:00pm From £27 Charter Hall

5 November 6.00pm Varied Castle Park

Ed Byrne presents his brand-new masterclass in observational comedy!

Join Ed as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has any traits that are worth passing on to his children.

This Annual Fireworks Spectacular is one of the biggest events in the town with thousands coming together to enjoy a breath-taking display from Dynamic Fireworks.

BRIDGET CHRISTIE: WHO AM I?

SHOW ME LOVE 19 November 7:00pm to 12:45am Varied Charter Hall

18 November 7:30pm From £22 Charter Hall A brand-new show from Bridget Christie, Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, and star of her own Netflix special and BBC Radio 4 series, ‘Bridget Christie Minds the Gap’.

Enjoy the best of 90’s nostalgia with some of the biggest headlining DJ’s from the days of Club Classics and UK Garage.

Features live vocals musicians, dancers, feel good music and an electric atmosphere.

www.colchester-events.co.uk 25

THE OVERTONES: 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR 20 November 7:30pm £28 Charter Hall The multi-platinum selling vocal harmony group, loved for their exquisite harmonies and distinctive style, are firmly established as one of UK’s most popular live acts.

THE COMEDY STORE 26 November 8.00pm From £17 Charter Hall We bring you “The Best In Stand Up” from around the globe, showcasing the brightest names in comedy today.

Simply the funniest show you’ll see all year!

CHRISTMAS MARKET 27 - 28 November 10:00am Free Entry Town Hall Join us for festive fun at the Town Hall bursting with stalls to browse and buy cards, festive refreshments, jewellery, beauty, ornaments, personalised gifts and many more surprises.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Ticket Information E-tickets are sent out following booking; in some cases tickets can be posted or collected at the venue.

Discounts Some events offer family tickets or discounts. Visit our website or call 01206 506905 for details.

Refunds or exchanges We are unable to offer refunds and exchanges once tickets are purchased.

However, if a show is postponed or cancelled due to Covid-19, customers will be offered a refund.

Booking Fees Some events charge a booking fee which will be indicated when purchasing tickets.

Box Office – Telephone: 01206 573948 All listings and prices are correct at the time of going to print. Colchester Events reserves the right to make alterations where necessary.

Colchester Events is part of Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd (CATL) a company established and wholly owned by Colchester Borough Council. All profits are reinvested to support the delivery of council services to the borough’s residents.

26 THE TICKET - Summer/Autumn 2021

Getting to know…

EVEN MORE GOOD REASONS

JASON DONOVAN After years of successfully touring the country in stage productions such as Priscilla and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, the former Neighbours star performs his own show for the first time in five years.

“The tour is a real opportunity to make people feel good and, after everything we’ve all been through, I can’t wait to share these special live moments with fans again. I like to create a show which is not just about singing songs, I like people to come into my world through the music, the stories, the visuals,

THE BRASS BAND PLAYED TIDDELY OM POM POM

Tick are o ets n sa now! le and feel they’ve got to know me a little more personally. It’s that connection that’s going to make these shows extra special... certainly a highlight of my year,” said Jason Donovan.

Over his career Jason bagged himself four number one singles, including the million selling smash with Neighbours co-star Kyle Minogue, Especially For You. www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/jasondonovan/

Did you know, the fabulous Victorian bandstand in Castle Park hosts FREE performances on selected Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer?

Look out for performances from St Peters Band, Boxted Methodist Silver Band, Harmonie Concert Band and Chelmsford Silver Band (pictured).

No need to book. Just turn up! www.colchester-events.co.uk/ event/bandstand-concerts/

Image Credit: Starrphotos.com

T

he wait is over – Australian heartthrob Jason Donovan is set to bring his 30th anniversary solo tour ‘Even More Good Reasons’ to Charter Hall on 24 October to celebrate three decades since the release of his debut album Ten Good Reasons.

www.colchester-events.co.uk 27

LAUGHTER is the best Medicine As we emerge from tiers and lockdowns, it feels like now more than ever we need something to look forward to.

To that end, Colchester Events has been working hard to build Colchester’s reputation as a ‘must-go’ destination for top comedians - booking some of the biggest names in show biz! Here are some of the top comedy acts coming to Charter Hall this year – in (largely) their own words!

Bridget Christie Who Am I? The star of her own Netflix special ‘Stand Up for Her’ and BBC Radio 4 series, Bridget Christie Minds the Gap, we can’t wait to welcome Bridget for her debut appearance at Charter Hall.

“She is among the last decade’s most blissfully funny, ridiculous and radical standups…” - Brian Logan.

25 Sept

4 Nov 18 Nov

Jason Manford Like Me “After the fun we had on my last tour ‘Muddle Class’, I’m excited to get back on the road with my new stand-up show ‘Like Me’. In these trying times, it’s always important to be able to get away for a couple of hours and exercise the old chuckle muscle.

So, I’m coming to a venue near you in 2021/2022, to have a good laugh”

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Sarah Millican Bobby Dazzler “I’ve spent the last year writing jokes and growing my backside. I can’t wait to get back on the road and make you laugh.”

- Sarah Millican

Jimeoin Turn It Up ‘Hilarious… If laughter is the best medicine, Jimeoin is a course of steroids….

Don’t you miss it!’

- Edinburgh Evening News

13 Oct

TOP COMEDY

John Bishop Right Here Right Now “After the last months we’ve all endured, it feels like a lifetime since I last performed in front of a live audience.

There’s nothing like stand-up comedy to put a smile back on your face, so I can’t wait to get back out on the road to perform this new show across the UK, Ireland and around the world.”

19 Oct

‘Two hours of observational humour delivered so skilfully it looks effortless’ - Evening Standard

Ed Byrne If I’m Honest “I do genuinely annoy myself but the thing of your children being a reflection of you, gives you an opportunity to build something out of the best of yourself only for you to then see flashes of the worst of yourself in them. It’s a wakeup call about your own behaviour.”

- Ed Byrne

26 Nov

11 Nov

Jim Davidson Unlocked “Showman Jim triumphs…he hits the spot again and again” - Sunday Express

22 Oct

The Comedy Store 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 Eddie Izzard, John Bishop, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Sarah Millican, have all cut their comedy teeth with us. Simply the funniest show you’ll see all year!

Paul Smith Changed A lot has changed for Paul in recent years.

After being crowned Liverpool’s New Comedian of the Year (2019) and finalist at The Leicester Comedian of the Year, join him for his 3rd and largest ever tour of the UK and Ireland as he once again mixes sharp, hilarious stories from his life with his trademark 27 ‘off the cuff’ wit - a Oct truly special show for all comedy fans. www.colchester-events.co.uk 29

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www.colchester-events.co.uk 31

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LIVING DANGEROUSLY

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www.colchester-events.co.uk 37

LIVE NATION & MZA PRESENT

‘DARK’ & ‘JIGSAW’

‘DANIEL SLOSS: X’

SPECIAL GUEST

KAI HUMPHRIES

‘DIRTY, SWEET AND CLEVER’

‘DAZZLING’

NEW YORK TIMES

DAILY TELEGRAPH

‘SMOULDERING… DELICIOUSLY DARK STAND-UP. BRILLIANT!’ MAIL ON SUNDAY

‘SIMPLY WORLD CLASS’ HERALD SUN

‘COMEDY PROVOCATEUR’ THEMUSIC.COM.AU

‘HILARIOUS... SEE HIM!’ THE AGE

PHOTO CREDIT: TROY EDIGE

DESIGNER: JESS BILSKI

FRIDAY 03 DECEMBER 2021

COLCHESTER CHARTER HALL

livenation.co.uk | danielsloss.com

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GETSLOSSED

Daniel-Sloss

danielsloss

Daniel_Sloss

Daniel_Sloss

Join us to discover Colchester’s elegant Town Hall - the ideal venue for your perfect wedding

Colchester Town Hall Sunday 26 September 2021 11am-4pm | Free entry

Book your place at: colchesterweddingfair.eventbrite.co.uk

Planning

your break

is easy

Visit Colchester Information Centre @ Hollytrees Museum For details see www.visitcolchester.com or Call 01206 282920

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London

Ipswich/Norwich

Childsplay Adventureland

Fire Station

PE

Putt in the Park

River C olne

AC

Lower Castle Park

E

HEAD STREET

GA TE AD

HE ROA D

UTT

26 B B10

32 12 A

ROMAN ROAD

IPSWICH RD

BALKERNE HILL A134 2 M ALD ON RO A

02

N E ST R E E T

Colchester Town Station

St John’s Green

WALSINGHAM RD

MAGD ALEN Abbeygate

Save time on the day and pre pay for parking when purchasing tickets through our website; 400 onsite spaces For accessible seating and carer ticket options please call our box office on: 01206 573948 Visitors can enjoy a selection of beer, wine, spirits, hot drinks and light snacks.

ID required and card payments only.

COLCHESTER CASTLE PARK, HIGH ST, COLCHESTER CO1 1UG

The closest car parks are located at Priory Street and Leisure World Blue badge and disabled car parking is available in the High Street and Castle Street. Most areas of the Park are fully accessible on tarmac paths.

NORTH

B1025 To Mersea Island

TH

AD RO RY ITA

CHARTER HALL, COWDRAY AVE, COLCHESTER CO1 1YH

STREET

A134

MIL

VENUES

CP

ST BOTOLPH’S QUARTER

Colchester Magistrates’ Court

B1022 To Tiptree | Maldon and Colchester Zoo

CH

A133 to University of Essex Clacton | Harwich

Clacton-on-Sea Walton-on-the-Naze

T

SOUTH STREE

D

ST JOHN’S

EET

7

AN

GTON STR

OR

13

UE 33 A 1 REW’S AVEN

OS B

St Botolph’s Priory

ST

St Johns Shopping

REET

RY ST

PRIO

VINEYARD ST

BUS STATION

SOUTHWAY A134

WELLIN

Firstsite

A

RD EAD NST GREE

Police Station

Curzon Cinema

3

STREET

Roman Church

ST BOTOLPH’S

SHORT WYRE STREET

ELD LANE

ST JOHN’S STREET

Headgate Theatre

Priory Walk Shopping

EAST ST

H I L L

Minories Art Gallery

BROOK STREET

STREET

Library

E A S T

STREET EAST

E LONG WYR

CULVER WALK

LIONWALK

B1

Portal Precinct

SIR ISAAC’S WALK

C H WALK T

A1124 LEX DEN ROAD D

CULVER SQUARE

TRINITY STREET

CH UR

CROUCH STREE

CULVER

T WEST

TRINITY

i

ST

US

M

Natural History Museum

CULVER STREE

Culver Square Shopping

M

EU

Sensory Visitor Garden Information Centre @ Hollytrees Museum

13

Rollerword & Quasar

Bank Passage

Odeon Cinema

Colchester Arts Centre

CROUCH STREET

S T R E E T Lion Walk Shopping

Castle Museum

A1232 To A12 and Ipswich A137 To Manningtree

A

Upper Castle Park

URGH ST MAIDENB

L A N E B U S NORTH HILL

TH

WILLIAMS WALK

H H I G

STREET

Children’s Playground

Roman Theatre

BALKERNE PASSAGE

CHURCH

CASTLE ROAD

LEN’S LANE ST HE

Balkerne Gate Jumbo Water Mercury Tower Theatre

Victorian Bandstand Café

D

NUNN’S ROAD

H O U R

ST MARY’S

E ROA RYEGAT

2 4

Sixth Form College

CP

E STREET

NORTHGAT

SHORT CUT ROAD

SOUTH

STREET

LEWIS GARDENS

D ROA

ST PETER’S

T

PEN

Boating Lake

NORTH MIDDLEBOROUGH

NS TR EE

N PL

EE

SHEE

EE

QU

SH

B1025 MERSEA ROAD

Colchester Institute

HOW TO FIND US

CH

PAVILION VIEW

Cricket Ground

ROAD STATION

Y TWA WES

NORTH

A134

To A12 London

Go Bananas

A V E N U E

C O W D R A Y

A 1 3 3

A134

NCN51 Wivenhoe & Harwich

OH

TOWN HALL – HIGH STREET, COLCHESTER CO1 1PJ

The closest car parks are located at Priory Street and St Mary’s.

The venue is fully accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

OLD HEATH RECREATION OH GROUND, OLD HEATH RD, COLCHESTER CO1 2ER A car park is located 400m from the entrance The venue is fully accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

ALL OUR VENUES ARE AVAILABLE TO HIRE – VISIT COLCHESTER-VENUES.CO.UK

For Town Centre car parks information: www.colchester.gov.uk/parking-and-travel/ town-centre-car-parks/ Contactless payments can be made with the MiPermit app. www.colchester-events.co.uk 43

WELCOME TO

INCOLCHESTER A website designed for you to find out about and discover new places, right in the heart of Colchester Town Centre.

Discover events and deals from businesses in the town or exciting competitions you will

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not want to miss! Use us to find great places for food, drink, shopping, services and more!

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