Welcome to The Ticket - your essential guide to Colchester’s cultural calendar and top events this winter.
From electrifying live music to festive food and family-friendly experiences, there’s so much to discover this season. Whether you’re planning a weekend out or simply looking for inspiration, this guide is here to help you make the most of what’s happening right here in the city.
We’re proud to champion the venues, artists and independent businesses that keep our city thriving - and grateful to Palmer & Partners, our Platinum Sponsor, for their support in bringing this edition to life. Here’s to a fun-filled winter season in Colchester.
A Taste of What’s To Come
Our pick of the shows coming to Colchester
Shrek the Musical
Get ready for a musical like no other!
Festive Family Favourites
Seasonal magic for all ages
Our complete Pull-Out Events Guide
Winter programme from 1 Nov 2025 to 30 April 2026.
Get to know Gareth
Find out why Gareth Gates is excited to make his debut at Charter Hall
Get into the industry Start your journey into a dynamic
UNMISSABLE MOMENTS This Season’s
As the lights go up across the city, Colchester’s events scene is buzzing with headline acts and high-energy happenings.
28 NOV
The Comedy Store
With 40 years of comedy excellence, The Comedy Store showcases top global talent and rising stars. Top comedians hand-picked from the UK’s most iconic stand-up institution - all in one electric evening.
Shrek the Musical - The Big Green Showstopper
Colchester welcomes one of the season’s boldest productions: Shrek the Musical - a laugh-out-loud, larger-than-life fairy tale brought to the stage with colour, music and unexpected heart. 13 DEC4 JAN
29 NOV
7:30pm
Charter Hall
£22.90
The Girl Power Experience
Join our 8-piece girl band for a non-stop singalong night featuring hits from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Spice Girls, Madonna, Rihanna, Adele, and more — this powerhouse pop tribute is a feel-good celebration of the best in girl band history.
12 NOV
7:30pm
Charter Hall
£34.50
Milton Jones: Ha!Milton
The king of surreal stand-up brings his rapid-fire nonsense and one-liner mastery to town. Unpredictable, hilarious, and not to be missed. As seen on Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo.
20 NOV
7:30pm
Charter Hall
£33.50
Legend - The Music of Bob Marley
A West End-calibre show honouring one of music’s greatest icons. Expect rhythm, joy and unforgettable live energy, hits including One Love, No Woman No Cry, Jammin’, and more.
Get ready for a magical, musical adventure like no other as Shrek the Musical storms into Charter Hall, Colchester this December!
Brought to you by Colchester Events and Stage Right Productions, the largerthan-life festive spectacular promises laughter, love, and a whole lot of swampy fun. Get ready for a magical, musical adventure like no other as Shrek the Musical storms into Charter Hall, Colchester this December!
Starring Danny John-Jules (Red Dwarf, Death in Paradise) as wise-cracking sidekick Donkey, alongside Colchester’s very own Joseph Rawlings as Shrek himself, this dazzling stage adaptation of the hit DreamWorks film is packed with
unforgettable characters, catchy songs, and hilarious moments for all ages.
Joining him is Chris Edgerley (Elf the Musical, Emmerdale) as the outrageously funny Lord Farquaad, alongside James Cartwright (Coronation Street, Downton Abbey) as the Magic Mirror and Director of the show. Choreography is led by international talent Adam Scown, whose credits include the Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony and worldclass productions across the globe.
Shrek the Musical is bursting with spectacular visuals, witty dialogue, and a heartwarming message about friendship, acceptance, and believing in your happily ever after.
Following last year’s smash-hit Elf, which sold over 21,500 tickets, this year’s festive show is set to be even bigger. Whether you’re a fan of the film or discovering the story for the first time, Shrek the Musical is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Christmas season.
It’s a show that celebrates individuality and friendship. It’s fun, fast-paced and ideal for all ages.
13 DEC -
4 JAN
7.00pm, doors open at 6:00pm
Charter Hall
£25 Adults*
£20 Children
Book your tickets now to an unforgettable performance. Scan the QR code below.
BREWERY AND TAPROOM
Enjoy beer & food that belong together. Our Brewery and Taproom bring you the perfect pairing of house brewed beers alongside a menu of mains, small plates and bar snacks
6 FEB
7.30pm, doors open at 6:30pm
Charter Hall
From £25.00
The greatest tribute to Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra, ELO Encounter, is performing at Charter Hall in Colchester on 6 February 2026. Doors 7pm.
The all live show features soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies, and playing all the much-loved songs from ELO including ‘Mr Blue Sky’, ‘Evil Woman’, ‘Livin’ Thing’ and ‘Don’t bring Me Down’. Not only flawlessly recreating the wonderful music of ELO, it’s a spectacular live show from start to finish.
Stunning lights, lasers and special effects, managed by Lighting Engineer Mikey Pettitt from Colchester, create an atmosphere that will have you fully immersed in the whole experience.
A recent reviewer remarked - “Not really a tribute, that cheapens what
this band does, which is to transport you back to those days. So sensitively and authentically done!”.
This internationally renowned show includes Colchester locals, Jack Rownes on lead vocals, keyboards and vocoder, Henry Rownes on lead vocals and bass, with Max Rownes on trumpet, French horn and backing vocals.
The show boasts a superb string section to authentically reproduce the complexity of Jeff Lynne’s music, so get ready for an awesome trip back to the 70s and 80s with ELO Encounter reeling off classic hit after hit, it’s guaranteed to have the hairs on the back of your neck dancing in time to the music!
For tickets to the Charter Hall show visit the website at www.eloencounter.co.uk/charterhall.
Our idea is very simple...
Make a BIG difference with small change
At the 500 Club, our mission is to create positive change in our local communities by donating £500 each month to a local charity or cause, nominated by our members.
For just £2.50 a month you can get involved and help your local community
Scan the QR code to find out more.
SEASONAL MAGIC
For all ages
Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? From sparkling trails to festive pop-ups, there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained this winter.
Festive Tea at the George
The George Hotel in Colchester is ready to make this festive season one to remember. Over 500 years old and full of charm, the hotel blends history and elegance in the heart of the High Street. From 27 November, enjoy a range of seasonal celebrations, from threecourse festive lunches and dinners, perfect for family, friends, or work gatherings, to indulgent Festive Afternoon Teas with a Christmas twist. On Christmas Day, celebrate with a special five-course lunch, and ring in the New Year with live entertainment and a lavish dinner.
For families, our Frozen Fairy Tea Parties are a magical treat! Children can meet Elsa and Anna for an afternoon of sing-alongs, dancing, sweet treats, and sparkling tea. With plenty of festive fun and photo opportunities, it’s a fairy-tale experience for all.
For enquiries or to stay updated on what’s on, contact our team at events@ thegeorgehotelcolchester.co.uk
Santa’s Grotto at Lion Walk
This Christmas, the heart of Colchester comes alive with Santa’s Grotto at Lion Walk, nestled within the beautifully decorated Courtyard experience. The space will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with joy, laughter, and the unmistakable magic of Christmas.
Children and families are invited to step inside Santa’s Grotto, share their Christmas wishes, and capture a treasured photo to remember the moment. The experience is designed to delight all ages, from the youngest believers to nostalgic grown-ups reliving the wonder of Christmas past.
Alongside Santa’s visit, guests can enjoy live festive music, seasonal treats, and the warm glow of Christmas lights filling the courtyard. The Courtyard’s festive food offering adds an extra sprinkle of indulgence, making Lion Walk a magical destination for families and friends.
With its charming atmosphere, delicious food and refreshments, Lion Walk’s Grotto promises a festive experience like no other, right in the heart of Colchester.
Enlightened Returns to Colchester for a More Dazzling and Immersive 2025 Experience
The much-loved Enlightened light trail is returning to Castle Park this winter – and it promises to be brighter, longer, and more mesmerising than ever before. Following last year’s sell-out success, Enlightened Moments, the masters of illumination, are back with an aweinspiring spectacle featuring brand-new installations, a reimagined route, and an enchanting festive atmosphere.
Visitors can expect a breathtaking journey through immersive light displays, captivating projections, and hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, all perfectly choreographed to an evocative seasonal soundtrack. Highlights include interactive illuminated stepping stones and a dazzling son et lumière show featuring lasers and projections that bring Castle Park to life.
Accessible to everyone and designed to delight all ages, Enlightened 2025 offers the ultimate winter experience. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning for more, it’s sure to leave you with magical memories to treasure.
Sunday 7 December 2025
WHAT’S ON in Colchester
Here’s your pull-out guide to all events taking place at Charter Hall, Castle Park and Old Heath Recreation Ground. 1 November 2025 to 25 April 2026
1 NOVEMBER 2025
5 NOVEMBER 2025
5 NOVEMBER 2025
6 NOVEMBER 2025
8 NOVEMBER 2025
ROLLERWORLDSKATE AND SCARE
11:00 AM | £12.50 | Charter Hall
Rollerworld returns to Charter Hall for an epic skate day with music and fun. Join us and roll together for an unforgettable family experience!
TWO PINTS PODCAST LIVE: NOVEMBER NONSENSE
7:30 PM | £37.00 | Charter Hall
Will Mellor and Ralf Little return with their hilarious Two Pints Podcast Live tour, November Nonsense — packed with laughs, on-stage banter, and fanfavourite comedy.
KING COEL’S KITTENS EVENT IN CASTLE PARK
5:30 PM | From £13.00 | Castle Park
Joins for Castle parks annual firework display.
TINA TURNER BY CANDLELIGHT
7:30 PM | From £33.50 | Charter Hall
Join Dixie Daye and her live band for a euphoric candlelit tribute to Tina Turner’s greatest hits at Charter Hall — an unforgettable night of music, energy, and celebration!
DANIEL O’REILLY: LET’S HAVE IT
8:00 PM | £35.50 | Charter Hall
Fresh off a sold-out tour, Daniel O’Reilly returns with his no-holds-barred, laugh-out-loud comedy show. Raw, real, and outrageously funny — don’t miss Let’s Have It!
MILTON JONES: HA!MILTON
7:30 PM | £34.50 | Charter Hall
This isn’t a musical—Milton Jones is tone deaf. Expect daftness, giraffes, tomatoes, and rapid-fire jokes from the start. As seen on Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo.
INDIE PALOOZA: THE KOPYKAT KILLERS V SCAM FENDER V SUBARTIC MONKEYS V OASIS 96
7:00 PM | £27.00 | Charter Hall
Indiepalooza returns for its third year, uniting top tributes to The Killers, Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, and Sam Fender for one epic night of indie-rock that’s sold out nationwide.
KEVIN BLOODY WILSON: DILLIGAF LEGEND, LIVE FEATURING JENNY TALIA FROM AUSTRALIA
7:30 PM | From £37.50 | Charter Hall
Comedy legend Kevin Bloody Wilson returns! With 20 albums, global fans, and 40 years of PC-free humour, his iconic DILLIGAF attitude lives on.
HAUNTED NIGHTS GHOST HUNT
7:30 PM | Tickets from £50 | Town Hall
Rare ghost hunt at Colchester Town Hall—explore eerie tunnels, cells, and courtroom with Haunting Nights. History, mystery, and chills!
ANT MIDDLETON - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED
7:30 PM | From £38.75 | Charter Hall
From Special Forces to Everest, Hollywood to politics, Ant’s extraordinary life inspires with gripping stories of survival, resilience, leadership, and elite mindset transformation.
20 NOVEMBER 2025
30 NOVEMBER 2025
LEGEND: THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY
7:30 PM | £33.50 | Charter Hall
Direct from the West End, Legend celebrates Bob Marley with unforgettable vocals, flawless musicianship, and timeless reggae hits including One Love, No Woman No Cry, Jammin’, and more.
DAY-TIME DISCO FOR GROWN UPS
3:00 PM | From £19.50 | Town Hall
Discos for Grown Ups brings its legendary 70s–90s daytime disco to Colchester! Dance to classic hits, lasers, live dancers, glow sticks, and retro sweets. Feel-good fun guaranteed!
THE COMEDY STORE
8:00 PM | From £21.50 | Charter Hall
28 November 2025 & 6 March 2026
With 40 years of comedy excellence, The Comedy Store showcases top global talent and rising stars. See the funniest acts today — where legends like Jimmy Carr and Sarah Millican began.
THE GIRL POWER EXPERIENCE
7:30 PM | From £25.00 | Charter Hall
Join our 8-piece girl band for a non-stop singalong night featuring hits from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Spice Girls, Madonna, Rihanna, Adele, and more — the ultimate girls’ night out!
SANTA FUN RUN 2025
10:00 AM | £12.50 | Castle Park
Join the 16th Santa Fun Run in Castle Park! Walk, jog or run while fundraising for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity Fund or a cause close to your heart. Festive fun guaranteed.
3
CHRISTMAS - THE CANDLELIGHT CONCERT
8:00 PM | £27.00 | Charter Hall
Experience Christmas – The Candlelight Concert with live singers and bands playing holiday classics like White Christmas and Winter Wonderland in a magical, family-friendly festive celebration.
ELVANA: ELVIS FRONTED NIRVANA
8:00 PM | £30.50 | Charter Hall
From Disgraceland, Elvis fronts Nirvana in Elvana—a wild mash-up of grunge and rockabilly, blending iconic Nirvana hits with the King’s classics. Cheeseburgers, teen spirit, and rock ’n’ roll collide!
SAM CAMPBELL, BRIDGET CHRISTIE, MAISIE ADAM, TOM ROSENTHAL: LIVE AT CHRISTMAS
7:30 PM | £28.00 | Charter Hall
Colchester’s festive comedy show stars Sam Campbell, with Bridget Christie, Sharon Wanjohi, Tom Rosenthal, and host Maisie Adam.
TOWN HALL CHRISTMAS GIFT MARKET
10:00 AM | Free | Town Hall
The Moot Hall Christmas Gift Market returns with 40 stalls of unique, handcrafted gifts. Enjoy festive shopping alongside Colchester’s bustling High Street Market with food, crafts, and holiday cheer.
SCROOGE (1951) WITH LIVE MUSICA MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREAT
7:30 PM | £28.00 | Town Hall
Experience the classic 1951 film Scrooge with a live score by FB Pocket Orchestra—immersive, heart-warming, and perfect for festive nights with family and friends.
ENLIGHTENED 2025
Various | From £12.00 | Castle Park
Experience the magic of Enlightened at Colchester Castle Park! From 12–28 December, enjoy dazzling light trails and unforgettable festive fun for the whole family this Christmas.
SHREK THE MUSICAL
Various | From £22.50 | Charter Hall
The award-winning Shrek the Musical comes to Colchester, bringing DreamWorks’ beloved story to life with humour, heart, and fairy tale misfits— perfect for a magical Christmas family outing.
PROFESSOR BRIAN COX: WORK IN PROGRESS
7:30 PM | From £32.00 | Charter Hall
After performing his smash-hit show Horizons to nearly half a million worldwide, Professor Brian Cox returns—join him for an intimate evening with exclusive access to his next tour.
JACK OFF THE BEANSTALK: GRAB
YOUR CHOPPER
8:30 PM | From £25.00 | Charter Hall
Get ready for a cheeky, adult-only Jack and the Beanstalk full of filthy innuendos, outrageous laughs, and naughty twists. Leave kids home— this is a wildly naughty night out!
DARA O BRIAIN: RE:CREATION
8:00 PM | £32.00 | Charter Hall
After global success with his last tour, Dara Ó Briain returns with Re:Creation—a hilarious night of storytelling, audience fun, and comedy brilliance from one of Ireland’s finest stand-ups.
12 FEBRUARY 2026
TAYLORMANIA
4:00 PM | £28.00 | Charter Hall
Award-winning tribute show starring Katy Ellis delivers the ultimate Taylor Swift experience with live band, dancers, and all the hits—Shake It Off, Love Story, Blank Space, and more. Swiftie heaven!
ELO ENCOUNTER: FACE THE MUSIC
7:30 PM | £25.00 | Charter Hall
Experience the ultimate tribute to ELO with The ELO Encounter—soaring strings, stunning harmonies, spectacular lights, and all the hits. A live show guaranteed to get you dancing All Over the World!
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA WITH LIVE ORGANIST
7:30 PM | Tickets from £20 | Town Hall
Watch 1925’s Phantom of the Opera with live organ at Colchester’s Moot Hall. Seated audience.
AL MURRAY: ALL YOU NEED IS GUV
7:30 PM | From £35.20 | Charter Hall
The Pub Landlord returns in 2026 with a brand-new stand-up show - pouring pints of Common Sense, laughs, and truth for troubled times.
GUNS 2 ROSES – SUPPORTED BY COBAIN’T AND AC/DC REBORN
7:00 PM | £21.50 | Charter Hall
Guns 2 Roses are the closest-looking and most internationally recognised Guns N’ Roses tribute act. Established in 2002, they’re the longestrunning and only tribute to perform with four original band members.
19 FEBRUARY 2026
22 FEBRUARY 2026
27 FEBRUARY 2026
28 FEBRUARY 2026
28 FEBRUARY 2026
GORDON BUCHANAN: LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS
7:30 PM | From £33.00 | Charter Hall
Award-winning filmmaker Gordon Buchanan returns in 2026 with thrilling wildlife tales. Join him for an unforgettable evening of adventure, awe, and heart-stopping animal encounters from around the world.
THE OLIVIA RODRIGO EXPERIENCE
6:00 PM | From £19.00 | Charter Hall
The Olivia Rodrigo Experience is a high-energy tribute show featuring her biggest hits, iconic covers, dancers, and authentic vibes - perfect for fans of all ages. Sing along and enjoy!
ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW
7:30 PM | £31 | Charter Hall
Two hours of legendary rock hits live! Clapton, Queen, AC/DC, Zeppelin & more. High energy, lights, and pure nostalgia!
SING
THE MUSICALS - THE LIVE BAND
SING-ALONG SPECTACULAR
7:30 PM | From £27.00 | Charter Hall
The first national tour of the greatest musicals ever, performed by a sensational live band and character singers. A giant screen with sing-along lyrics makes this the must-see show of 2025/26.
HAUNTED NIGHTS GHOST HUNT
7:30 PM | Tickets from £50 | Town Hall
Rare ghost hunt at Colchester Town Hall—explore eerie tunnels, cells, and courtroom with Haunting Nights. History, mystery, and chills!
DRAG ME TO THE 80S
7:30 PM | £27.00 | Charter Hall
Join the 80s Divas for a dazzling celebration of nostalgia and empowerment with powerhouse vocals, a full live band, and hits from Madonna, Whitney, ABBA, Queen, and more!
MO GILLIGAN: THE MO YOU KNOW
8:00 PM | £32.00 | Charter Hall
Off the back of his acclaimed In The Moment world tour, triple BAFTA winning standup sensation Mo Gilligan has announced his brand new 2026 world tour The Mo You Know.
RADIO GAGA - THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO QUEEN
7:30 PM | £33.50 | Charter Hall
Celebrate Queen’s greatest hits live! Two hours of show-stopping music, energy, and fun with the ultimate tribute experience.
ROB LAMBERTI PRESENTS PERFECTLY GEORGE
7:30 PM | £25.00 | Charter Hall
Rob Lamberti’s stunning tribute show celebrates George Michael’s iconic career—from Wham! to solo hits—captivating audiences across Europe with powerful vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and unforgettable performances.
DISCOS FOR GROWN UPS: DAYTIME DISCO PARTY
3:00 PM | From £18.50 | Charter Hall
DISCOS FOR GROWN UPS returns to Charter Hall for a fabulous daytime disco! Dance to 70s, 80s, 90s hits with glitter, lights, confetti, dancers, glow sticks, and retro sweets!
26 MARCH 2026
27 MARCH 2026 28 MARCH 2026
12 APRIL 2026
16 APRIL 2026
ONE VOICE: THE ULTIMATE BARRY MANILOW TRIBUTE
7:30 PM | From £29.75 | Charter Hall
Celebrate the music of Barry Manilow in a dazzling live tribute with full band, showgirls, and timeless hits like “Copacabana” and “Mandy.” A magical night of nostalgia awaits!
JASON MANFORD: A MANFORD ALL SEASONS
7:30 PM | From £22.00 | Charter Hall
Jason Manford returns with A Manford All Seasons—a brand-new stand-up show packed with his trademark observational comedy, wit, and charm. Expect laughs, insight, and comic gold!
BOYBAND IN THE BUFF: STARRING GARETH GATES
7:30 PM | From £33.60 | Charter Hall
A cheeky, nostalgic concert featuring ‘90s and ‘00s boyband hits, sizzling dance moves, and pop star Gareth Gates - with harmonies, heat, and hardly any clothes.
K-POP PARTY
6:00 PM | From £16.50 | Charter Hall
The Non-Stop K-POP Concert Experience! Get ready to sing, dance, and party like never before with K-POP PARTY – the ultimate live celebration of Korea’s global music phenomenon!
DAVID OLUSOGA: A GUN THROUGH TIME
7:30 PM | Tickets from £32 | Charter Hall
David Olusoga explores three iconic guns that shaped history, society, and conflict—revealing their hidden stories live on stage.
THE BIG PANTS PARTY
7:30 PM | £30.00 | Charter Hall
The Big Pants Party is the ultimate girls’ night out—live music, powerhouse vocals, and iconic hits celebrating fun, friendship, and sisterhood. Laugh, dance, and sing through a nostalgic musical journey!
JIM DAVIDSON: LAST MAN STANDING...JUST!
7:30 PM | £30.00 | Charter Hall
Jim Davidson returns in 2026 with Last Man Standing… Just!—a bold, unfiltered comedy tour packed with sharp wit, satire, and defiance in a world of censorship and cancel culture.
STRONG ENOUGH: THE ULTIMATE CHER TRIBUTE
7:30 PM | From £33.55 | Charter Hall
Celebrate the one and only Cher in a dazzling live show featuring 25 hits, stunning costumes, dancers, and six decades of music—from Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves to Believe.
THE KING’S VOICE - GORDON HENDRICKS AS ELVIS
7:30 PM | £33.50 | Charter Hall
Gordon Hendricks, raised on Elvis’s music, became a renowned tribute artist after winning Stars in Their Eyes. Praised by industry legends, he now leads The King’s Voice tour worldwide.
EMMA KENNY: MURDEROUS MINDS
7:30 PM | £31.00 | Charter Hall
Emma Kenny, leading UK crime commentator, presents Murderous Minds—a gripping live tour exploring Britain’s most notorious murder cases with chilling insight, compassion, and unmatched expertise for captivated audiences.
NEVER MISS A SHOW!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Ticket Information
E-tickets are sent out following booking.
Discounts
Some events offer family tickets or other discounts. Visit our website or social media channels for details.
Refunds or exchanges
We are unable to offer refunds and exchanges once tickets are purchased.
Booking Fees
Some events charge a booking fee which will be indicated when purchasing tickets.
When you buy your tickets from Colchester Events, you’re helping to generate income to support local council services. All listings and prices are correct at the time of going to print. Colchester Events reserves the right to make alterations where necessary.
Gareth Gates heads to Colchester with the feel-good show Boybands in the Buff. 28 MAR
From Pop Idol fame to performing with Westlife, Gareth’s journey has been shaped by iconic pop hits and a lifelong love of music. A talented multi-instrumentalist, he’s excited to make his debut at Charter Hall.
Expect nostalgia, energy, and a fresh take on boyband classics.
If you could go back and Join ANY boyband (other than your own crew) who would it be and why?
Growing up I loved Westlife; I think it was their perfect Pop sound and clean-cut image! I actually sang one of their songs in my first audition for Pop Idol (Flying Without Wings). Luckily (and unbeknown to me!) Simon Cowell created Westlife! So I always had his vote! I then went on to work with several of the song writers and producers who made the Westlife hitsand even got the chance to perform with them at one of their London shows!
What is one surprising skill; or hidden talent your fans might not know about you?
I play the piano, guitar and drums. I learnt to pay them all as a kid and did my Grade 8 on all my instruments at the age of 15. Music was my life. I struggled to talk as a child so music became my only form of expression.
Finish the sentence…Before I go on stage I always…. Do lots of press-ups!
7.30pm, doors open at 6:30pm
Charter Hall
From £32.00
What excites you most about coming to Colchester?
I’ve never played at charter hall before, but have seen a few bigs acts play there over the years. So I can’t wait to actually perform there myself!
What is the most outrageous thing a fan has ever said or done at one of your gigs?
‘You’re flying low’ !! (My zip way down!!)
What is more nerve wracking singing live on TV in front of millions or stripping back for the show?
Both equally as nerve racking! In this show I do both! Wish me luck!
Finally Describe “Boy Bands in the buff” in 3 words that cant be in the title!
Fun, Sexy, Nostalgic!
Tickets available now – don’t miss your chance to see Gareth live at Charter Hall!
BEHIND THE SCENES
BRINGING SHREK to life
Behind every ogre is a team of incredibly talented creatives - and this show has them in spades. From custom costumes and makeup to stage-built castles and creatures, this is a full-scale operation with plenty of magic behind the curtain.
We met the costume and props team, who shared everything from dragon wings to donkey ears, all handmade by local craftspeople and theatre technicians.
Sound, lighting and movement all work in perfect sync, thanks to weeks of preparation and late-night rehearsals. And with a huge cast featuring performers of all ages, the result is pure, swampy brilliance.
22 FEBRUARY 2026 | CHARTER HALL, COLCHESTER
Get into the IndustryCAREERS
Thinking about a career in the catering industry? Discover essential tips, industry insights, and practical advice to help you start your journey into this dynamic and rewarding field.
The Edge Hotel School at the University of Essex is the UK’s 1st hotel school and was crowned best hospitality school in Europe by winning the prestigious EMCup! This is what attracts UK and international students to Colchester to study Events Management, Hospitality Management, and Tourism Management.
Our courses are taught by staff with industry experience and supported by practitioners at our luxury country house hotel on campus, Wivenhoe House Hotel. We even have a worldclass research department who have amassed an impressive number of books and international journal articles that look at the challenges and developments within tourism, hospitality and events.
We have a reputation for industry engaged learning with a partnership network that includes Milsom Hotels, Colchester Events, Jumbo Project, The BRIT Awards, Marriott, Hilton, The Ritz, Raffles and venues such as the o2 Arena, Twickenham Stadium and The Oval.
We have undergraduate BA (Hons) courses, Masters (MSc) courses, and part-time Masters courses which can be studied one day a week and do not require any previous degree!*
Any questions? Reach out to us at EHS@essex.ac.uk
Wivenhoe House
Discover the home of Edge Hotel School, Wivenhoe House Hotel, located just a short drive from Colchester city centre.
With 40 enchanting bedrooms, the recently refurbished Park Brasserie restaurant, an exciting calendar of house events and facilities for your own celebrations, why not visit us and see where luxury hospitality and innovative learning intersect? www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk/
Begin in the city centre with Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in Europe, built on a Roman temple destroyed by Boudica. Explore its award-winning museum and exhibitions.
Next door is Hollytrees Museum, a Georgian townhouse full of local history, toys, and clocks – and home to the Visitor Information Centre.
Castle Park, surrounding both attractions, offers beautiful gardens, Roman ruins, and a lively events calendar.
Firstsite is a free modern art gallery in a striking building, featuring a Roman mosaic and year-round cultural events.
Visit the ruins of St Botolph’s Priory, a dramatic reminder of Colchester’s ancient past.
Walk to the Roman Circus Centre, where you’ll uncover the story of Britain’s only Roman chariot racing track. WHY NOT STAY AND EXPLORE OUR TOP 10 For more ideas, visit www.visitcolchester.com or scan
ADVERTORIAL
While to the south Mersea Island offers beaches, wildlife, and the famous Colchester oysters – just check the tide before crossing! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Venture beyond the city centre for Colchester Zoo. Perfect for families, with 10,000 animals, fun activities, and a focus on conservation.
Or visit Beth Chatto Gardens for sustainable gardening at its finest. While you're nearby, explore riverside Wivenhoe
Just to the north the Dedham Vale designated National Landscape inspired artists like Constable. Enjoy scenic walks and charming villages.
Enjoy life in the fast lane
with Park and Ride
12 minutes to the town centre
Did you know?
Using Park and Ride can help congestion in cities and is a sustainable travel option and a stress free way for commuting, shopping or visiting
There are dedicated stops at Colchester General Hospital and Station
OUR VENUES
Our events are held in 4 venues across Colchester, please see the map for location details and venue information.
CHARTER HALL
Cowdray Ave, Colchester CO1 1YH
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 and light snacks. ID required and card payments only.
COLCHESTER CASTLE PARK
High Street, 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.
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 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.
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.
