What’s
On Sep 2024-Jan 2025
Hello!
Welcome back to another jam-packed Mercury brochure! This autumn, we’re bursting at the seams with electrifying drama, hilarious comedy, heart-warming family shows and so much more…
In the Studio, we’re proud to co-produce Mercury Playwrights Alumni Kelly Jones’ My Mother’s Funeral, plus, we’re rolling out the red carpet for a dazzling line-up of artists for the Colchester Fringe. Meanwhile, in the main theatre, you’re all invited to the Mike Leigh classic, Abigail’s Party. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
As we gear up for the festive season, tickets are flying off the shelves for our enchanting Mercury pantomime, The New Adventures of Peter Pan, and our delightful Studio Christmas show for little ones – The Ho Ho Ho Christmas Show! Don’t delay – book your tickets now to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the magic.
Dive into our Taking Part section to discover a host of creative opportunities, and don’t forget, our Café Bar is open Tuesday through Saturday. Pop in and say hello – we can’t wait to see you!
Our promise
Times are tough and we’re here to help! As a community building we want to be there for those that might need a helping hand. We promise:
• Every Wednesday is our Bargain Bites day where pensioners can get a hot meal and a drink for £5.
• To offer savings when you book our hot desk workspaces regularly, or come and work in our Café Bar and make use of our free Wi-Fi if you prefer a busy environment.
• £5 standby tickets will be available for Mercury Productions at the box office, after 4pm on the day of the performance. There are also discounts for u26s across all Mercury Productions.
• We’ll continue to offer ticket discounts for Military personnel and Emergency Services employees through our partnership with the Blue Light Card.
• Bursaries will continue to be available for Mercury Young Company. Please email taking.part@mercurytheatre.co.uk to find out more. (Subject to availability)
Mercury For All
Did you know…
The Mercury is a not-for-profit, registered charity. We rely on audience donations and funders to continue the work we do in your community. If you are ever able to make a donation towards the Mercury’s future, we would be extremely grateful –oh yes we would!
We are here to help…
We anticipate a lot of people have had to sacrifice theatre tickets and engagement activities to cover the rise in cost of living. We want to do everything we can to ensure that these families can still access these opportunities and that cost is not a barrier to theatre.
All donations made to the Mercury will allow us to continue delivering vital work to our communities including offering bursaries, free family events, early careers support and more.
Want more bang for your buck? Become a member and receive theatre goodies in exchange for your donation! Gift Aid can also be applied to all donations.
Become a Member…
£25 per year
£60 per year
£200 per year
£500 per year
£1200 per year
Priority Member
Be among the first to book for any show at the theatre.
Friend
All Priority Member benefits plus event invites, behind the scenes newsletters and free ticket exchanges.
Supporter
All Friend benefits plus 10% café discount, membership card, drink and programme vouchers and exclusive event invites.
Ambassador
All Supporter benefits plus lapel pin, calendar, press packages and tickets to backstage tour opportunities.
Producers Club
All Ambassador benefits plus recognition in the public areas of the building, free car parking and two free tickets to every Mercury Production.
Donate Now!
All memberships are giftable
CAST
Darren Samuel Armfield
Mum Debra Baker
Abigail Nicole Sawyerr
CREATIVES
Writer Kelly Jones
Director Charlotte Bennett
Set and Costume Designer Rhys Jarman
Lighting Designer Joshua Gadsby
Sound Designer Asaf Zohar
Movement Director Rachael Nanyonjo
Dramaturg Lauren Mooney
Assistant Director Phillippe Cato
Casting Director Nadine Rennie CDG
Production Manager Harry Armytage for The Production Office
Company Stage Manager Roni Neale
A Mercury Original
A
Paines
Plough, Mercury Theatre, Belgrade Theatre, Landmark Theatres, and Royal & Derngate, Northampton co-production
My Mother’s Funeral: The Show
Tue 17 – Sat 21 Sep
Abigail’s mum is dead. But it turns out she can’t afford her to be.
Did you know how expensive it is to die? It’s £4000 for the funeral. Extra for flowers. And even more if you want sausage rolls. Otherwise, she will get a pauper’s burial.
Then, when a theatre suddenly pulls out of Abigail’s new project, she is asked to write about something else. Something that will bring in audiences. Something more raw, from her ‘unique working class lens.’
Yep. To afford the funeral, she has to write about her mum.
With power and playfulness, Kelly Jones’s new play tackles the inequalities around death, and the cost of turning your loved ones into art.
The commissioning of My Mother’s Funeral: The Show was enabled by a grant from the New Play Commission Scheme, a project set up by the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain, UK Theatre and the Independent Theatre Council, and funded by Arts Council England, the Theatre Development Trust and donations from actors, directors, playwrights and producers.
My Mother’s Funeral: The Show was developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme.
Wed 18 Sep 8pm
Play
See website for times
Tickets from £10
Age Guidance 16+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
Jump straight to the show page
A co-production between Mercury Theatre, Northern Stage, Rose Theatre and ETT, and supported by a grant from the Royal Theatrical Support Trust
Abigail’s Party
Wed 2 – Sat 12 Oct
By Mike Leigh
Director Jack Bradfield
Designer Anna Yates
Beverly, the queen of suburbia, is hosting a cocktail party.
Next door, 15-year-old Abigail is throwing a party of her own. No one can stop talking about Abigail’s Party. No one can stop thinking about Abigail’s Party.
Something must be done about Abigail’s Party.
Welcome to Mike Leigh’s cult classic comedy, and prepare to see it like never before. This is the party to end all parties, and you’re all invited. RSVP.
See website for times
Tickets from £15.50
Age Guidance 14+ Play
Jump straight to the show page
Wed 9 Oct 7:30pm Post-show Q&A
Thu 10 Oct 2:30pm BSL interpreted & Relaxed performance
Sat 12 Oct 1pm Touch Tour
Sat 12 Oct 2:30pm
Sat 12 Oct 7:30pm
CAST
Wendy Alexandra Barredo
Peter Pan David Breeds
Ensemble/Understudy Nick Brittain-Keates
Captain Hook Jazz Evans
Tinkerbell Sasha Latoya
Ensemble/Understudy Shelby Speed
Sherry Smee Antony Stuart-Hicks
Smee Dale Superville
CREATIVES
Writer David Phipps-Davis
Director Antony Stuart-Hicks
Designer Jasmine Swan
Lighting Desinger Matt Ladkin
Sound Designer Nico Menghini
Choreographer Rosie Mather
Musical Director Joshua Tarrier
A Mercury Production
The New Adventures of Peter Pan
Sat 23 Nov 2024 – Sun 19 Jan 2025
Take flight with Peter Pan in an epic pantomime adventure!
Join us for Colchester’s favourite pantomime this Christmas as Neverland bursts to life in a spectacular production that’s fun for the whole family. The New Adventures of Peter Pan promises to be an awe-inspiring spectacle with the perfect blend of breath-taking sets & costumes, mind-blowing flying and effects and of course, side-splitting comedy.
Neverland is in chaos! The dastardly and devilish Captain Hook is back and seeking vengeance…
Antony Stuart-Hicks, “the best Dame in the country” (British Theatre), will be taking the reins as director as well as starring as Mrs Smee and fellow Mercury pantomime legend Dale Superville (fresh from the West End production of Fawlty Towers) returns as Smee. Book now for the ultimate feel-good festive day out!
Thu 5 Dec 10:15am Relaxed performance
Fri 6 Dec 7pm BSL interpreted
Sat 7 Dec 12.:30pm Touch Tour
Sat 7 Dec 2pm Audio Described
Sat 7 Dec 7pm Captioned
Wed 8 – Fri 10 Jan 7:30pm Adult performances
Sat 11 Jan 2pm Relaxed and BSL interpreted performance
Tue 14 – Thu 16 Jan 7:30pm Adult performances
Fri 17 Jan 7:30pm Adult & BSL interpreted performance
See website for times
Tickets from £10
Age Guidance 5+ (Family Shows), 18+ (Adult Shows)
Jump straight to the show page
Sherry Smee
Antony Stuart-Hicks
Smee
Dale Superville
The Ho Ho Ho Christmas Show
Tue 3 – Tue 24 Dec
Get into the festive spirit as you travel to Santa’s workshop to meet Ivy the new Head Elf. She is busy preparing everything for Santa in time for Christmas Eve. There are presents to wrap and reindeer to feed, so she needs your help to get it all done before the big night. You’ll meet her friends Rusty the cook, Rudolph and Tiny Tina, one of the workshop mice, who will have lots of fun along the way. The Elves think Santa Claus is such a kind man, but wonder whether anyone gets him any Christmas presents?... Before long Santa returns to the workshop to see all the good work and his faithful elf learns the true meaning of Christmas.
The show is full of wonder and enchantment, which the whole family can enjoy together. Audiences love the puppetry, magic and snow at every show.
A festive treat for all who truly believe in Santa Claus that will leave you feeling very Christmassy.
Jump straight to the show page
Tue 10 - Wed 11 Sep
Russell Kane: HyperActive
7:30pm | £32 | 14+
Whirlwind, FitBit-breaking comedian, presenter, actor and author Russell Kane is out on the road again, setting it on fire with his unique recipe of sharp wit and “storming physical comedy” (Mail on Sunday).
The brand-new tour for 2024 comes with a safety warning: wear strong underwear - pants will be spoiled. Russell is high-energy, highoctane, and hyper-active!
‘Fierce, funny and heartfelt’
The Guardian
Thu 12 Sep
Lee Mead: The Best of Me
7:30pm | £24.50 – £29.50 | 14+
Lee Mead, star of television and award-winning West End leading man, embarks on his brand new UK tour. This production features Lee’s outstanding live band and stunning musical arrangements. Selected songs from his musical influences will celebrate a career lasting over twenty years. Join Lee for an evening of unforgettable music from the world of musical theatre, contemporary hits and his brand new EP. A voice not to be missed!
Fri 13 Sep Sat 14 Sep Variety
Buffy Revamped
7:30pm | £22 – £27 | 14+
This fast-paced gem brings you the entire 144 episodes of the hit 90s TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as told through the eyes of the one person who knows it inside out… Spike. Buffy Revamped tours the UK following its award-winning Edinburgh Fringe premiere in 2022 and two sold-out national tours. Funny, satirical and bursting with 90s pop-culture references, it’s the perfect parody for Buffy aficionados and those who never enrolled at Sunnydale High alike.
Rock for Heroes
7:30pm | £25 – £30
Classic rock anthems, incredible musicians, sensational vocalists and a ROCKTACULAR experience; with a lot of laughs thrown in! Performed by a superb 7-piece band, the show breathes new life into the music of Guns ‘N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Dire Straits, Fleetwood Mac, Queen and more!
Let Rock for Heroes take you back to the Summer of ‘69 and join us for the BIGGEST celebration of the Heroes of Rock!
Starring Seann Walsh, Chris Harper and Aden Gillet
Tue 17 – Sat 21 Sep
See website for times | Tickets from £17.50 | 14+
The smash hit comedy returns with award-winning comedian Seann Walsh, Chris Harper (Call the Midwife, Coronation Street) and Aden Gillett (The Crown, The House of Elliot).
This multi-award winning play (winner of Best Comedy at the Olivier Awards, Tony Awards and Moliere Awards) is a razor sharp exploration of love and friendship and, of course, art.
Iqbal Khan (East is East, National Theatre and Othello, RSC) directs an all-star cast in a brand new production of Yasmina Reza’s fiendishly clever and hilariously funny play.
‘Funny, sophisticated, stylish, stimulating and moving’ The Independent
Tue 24 Sep
Hancock’s Half Hour
7:30pm | £19.50 – £24.50 | 8+
Experience the comedic genius of the Godfather of all sitcoms, Hancock’s Half Hour, live on stage! Presented by award-winning theatre company Hambledon Productions and commemorating 100 years of the legendary Tony Hancock as well as his all-star cast, join us for three classic TV episodes of this groundbreaking, timeless comedy that haven’t been seen since their original broadcast.
Wed 25 Sep
Singalong Musicals
7:30pm | £31 – £37 | 12+
See the show? YOU are the show!
Get ready to unleash your inner star and experience the magic of the musicals like never before! This isn’t your average sit-and-watch show – it’s a wild, interactive, and seriously rockin’ musical theatre experience. Featuring songs from Mamma Mia!, Grease, Frozen, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, SIX, Hairspray, We Will Rock You, The Lion King, Les Misérables, Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, Jersey Boys and much more.
Fri 27 – Sun 29 Sep Family
The Gruffalo
See website for times | Child: £14, Adult: £16
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Schefflercelebrating 25 years in 2024!
Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high-spirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?
Songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world!
‘A fine piece of children’s theatre.’ ★★★★ Sunday Times
‘This zesty show is just the ticket!’ ★★★★ Daily Express
Dad’s Army Radio Show
7:30pm | £18.50 – £22.50 | 12+
The nation’s favorite sitcom returns! Join the Dad’s Army Radio Show at the Mercury Theatre with three new episodes. Two actors, two microphones, over 25 characters and lots of sound effects bring Perry and Croft’s classic BBC comedy to life. Enjoy three classic episodes hilariously enacted by David Benson and Jack Lane. Don’t miss this acclaimed stage production!
★★★★★ ‘Benson and Lane’s two-man Army are a comedy force to be reckoned with.’ Radio Times
Comedy Club on the Road
7:30pm | £23 – £24.50 | 18+
The Comedy Club as seen on TV returns with a comedy extravaganza:
Four brilliant TV comedians, one unforgettable night!
Prepare for a night of endless laughter with four of the UK’s finest comedians all in one show! Experience a dynamic blend of styles that guarantees a smile for everyone in the audience, a show not to miss.
Let’s have a night of pure comedy and nonstop laughs!
Tenors Unlimited
7:30pm | £22 – £25
Tenors Unlimited perform at the Mercury on their Great Songs Tour, featuring all your favourites including Nessun Dorma, Some Enchanted Evening and Moon River. Their accolades include Best Touring Show award in the USA and a number one selling single. As international artists they have shared stages with Beyoncé and Sting and are no strangers to TV and radio. Enjoy a night of scintillating entertainment, soaring vocals and velvet harmonies.
“Bravi, grazie e complimenti” Sting
Adopt a Seat
We can’t promise your name in lights, but the next best thing is to adopt a seat in our auditorium. Add a name, quote or honour a loved one.
Visit mercurytheatre.co.uk/adopt or speak to a member of our team to find out more.
Fri 18 Oct Sat 19 Oct
Comedy Music
Dom Joly’s Conspiracy Tourist Tour
7:30pm | £22.50 – £28.50 | 14+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
Dom Joly has been off travelling the globe looking into some of the weirdest conspiracy theories in existence. Now, he’s set to embark on a unique theatre tour where he’ll provide a hilarious, fascinating and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies. In the spirt of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a well-known and highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view.
Thu 24 - Sun 27 Oct
CO2 - Legally Blonde
Celebrating Celine
7:30pm | £25 – £29
Celebrate Céline Dion with The Ultimate Céline Dion Tribute Concert! Featuring the acclaimed vocalist January Butler and a full live band, this dazzling show spans four decades of Céline’s hits. Enjoy phenomenal performances of songs like My Heart Will Go On, The Power of Love and more. With stunning vocals, costumes, and a sensational live concert feel, don’t miss this electrifying tribute to a global megastar. Book your tickets today!
Theatre Tours
Musical
See website for times | £15 – £26.50 | 12+
Join CO2 for Legally Blonde: The Musical, a high-energy, feel-good show that brings Elle Woods’ story to life. Follow Elle as she heads to Harvard Law School to win back her ex, defying stereotypes along the way. With catchy songs, hilarious moments and a heartwarming message, this must-see winter warmer celebrates Elle’s journey to self-discovery. Enjoy a night of laughter, love, and pink!
Let us take you behind the scenes to explore the backstage secrets of what makes a spectacular Mercury production. Your guide will take you on a journey through our amazing spaces and you can even make the most of your trip by ending with a delicious afternoon tea in our Café Bar.
Head to mercurytheatre.co.uk for more information. Sun 27 Oct 5pm Captioned CAP
Chipping Norton Theatre presents Murder for Two
By Kellen Blair and Joe Kinosian
Puts the laughter in manslaughter!
An anarchic musical murder mystery with a twist: one actor investigates the crime, whilst the other plays all the suspects! And they both play the piano throughout!
When the body of an acclaimed novelist is discovered at his birthday party, all the guests fall under suspicion. Can local beat-cop and wannabe detective Officer Marcus solve the mystery before the experts arrive?
With non-stop live music from a shared piano, and plenty of murder and mayhem thrown in, Murder for Two is impossible to resist.
Thu 31 Oct
Pop Princesses
1pm | £18 – £26 | 5+
A magical show where beautiful princesses become pop stars!
This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. The four fabulous fairy tale princesses are back with their new show for 2024.
Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus, plus all the best songs from all your favourite films and musicals. Come and join the fun!
Fri 8 Nov
Step Into Christmas
7:30pm | £30.50 – £32.50
Step Into Christmas for the most magical show of the year! Enjoy your favorite festive songs like All I Want for Christmas Is You, Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Stay Another Day and many more. It’s the time when every Santa has a ball and this amazing cast will warm your hearts in this warm-hearted family spectacular, full of festive cheer.
There’s a Monster in Your Show
See website for times | £17 | All ages
Sat 9 Nov
The Makings of a Murderer 2
7:30pm | £30.50 – £32.50 | 16+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
Following sell-out shows, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour returns with a new line-up! Join Senior Investigating Officer Colin Sutton, who caught Levi Bellfield and Delroy Grant, for a chilling night as he shares stories of capturing some of the UK’s most evil murderers. Based on the ITV series Manhunt Colin’s remarkable career will thrill true crime fans and theatregoers alike. Don’t miss The Makings of a Murderer 2!
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show.
A group of performers are preparing to start their show, but quickly discover they are not alone on stage. Little Monster wants to be part of the fun too! With an invitation to his friends, Dragon, Alien and Unicorn to join him, you can expect comedy and chaos as they help to create a magical show, learning about the joy of books and friendship along the way.
A high-energy 50-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre.
Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed with interactive moments to enjoy together.
There’s a Monster in Your Show... and he can’t wait to meet you! Fri 1 – Sat 2 Nov
Fri 31 Jan - Sun 9 Feb
Colchester Operatic Society’s The Little Mermaid
See website for times | £15 – £26.50 | 5+
Join Colchester Operatic Society for an under the sea adventure with Ariel, a spirited mermaid longing to be human. Watch her make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula to become human for three days and win Prince Eric’s heart. Featuring beloved songs like Part of Your World, Kiss the Girl and the Oscar-winning Under the Sea, this show is sure to make a splash!
Studio
With 98 seats, the Studio is an intimate space where anyone can be entertained, it’s a space for all! It’s our home of new writing, inspiring adaptations and the best of theatre festivals. We encourage you to bring your little ones for the first time, or try something brand new!
Pride Movie Nights
Join us in the Studio for a series of iconic queer films back on the big screen. We’re delighted to host a diverse selection of film screenings in partnership with Colchester Pride as we line up a variety of cult films through to modern classics.
Grab some popcorn and settle in for a great night out with some icons that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community!
See our website for the full schedule.
Fri 13 Sep, Fri 11 Oct, Fri 8 Nov
The Comedy Network
8pm | £13 | 16+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult) Book all three dates and receive 10% off!
Get ready to laugh out loud with an evening of great comedy as Avalon presents The Comedy Network.
Our popular comedy clubs have been making people laugh all year, so why not grab a drink with us, sit back and enjoy some of the best stand-up comedians on the circuit.
Avalon has an unrivalled reputation for finding new comedy talent and has many household names on their books, including Chris Addison, Rob Delaney, Jenny Eclair, Alex Horne, Chris Ramsey, Rosie Ramsey and Phil Wang - you never know, you might see the next big name in Colchester!
18+
Nights out at Mercury
Come and have a great night out with us. We host regular after-hours nights like Cocktail Cabaret, West End Live, Sing-a-longs and more! All Lates are free!
Tue 1 Oct, Sat 12 Oct
Present Laughter
See website for times | £13.50 | PG
The multi-award-winning production of Noël Coward’s provocative comedy, featuring Andrew Scott (Vanya, Fleabag), returns to the big screen. As he prepares to embark on an overseas tour, star actor Garry Essendine is engulfed by an identity crisis and his colourful life is in danger of spiralling out of control. Filmed live at The Old Vic in 2019, Matthew Warchus (Matilda The Musical) directs this modern reflection on fame, desire, and loneliness.
Wed 2 Oct Sat 5 Oct Play Play
The Deep
8pm | £16.50 | 14+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
As night turns into day over the ice-cold waters of the North Sea, a young fisherman finds his boat sinking. As his hopes of survival drift away, we witness his journey through the hopes, fears, and regrets of his unresolved life.
Accompanied by live singing from regional choirs, this one-man show is based on a remarkable true story and offers a moving remembrance to those lost at sea.
Four Felons & a Funeral
8pm | £13.50 | 14+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
Ever thought of stealing someone’s ashes? Neither had Millie. Now she’s barrelling down the M6 in a Fiat Punto with three accomplices, forty-five packets of crisps and a large decorative urn.
Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, GOYA Theatre Company present a feelgood new musical about four dysfunctional friends going on a road trip to scatter their best mate’s ashes. What could go wrong?
Grab a fancy gin, locally brewed beer or a freshly cooked meal before the show!
Open all day before a show 10am-Late
The Brief Life & Mysterious Death
of Boris III, King of Bulgaria
See website for times | £18 | 12+
The year is 1943 and Bulgaria has just told Hitler where to stick it.
Europe’s major powers are at war and King Boris III must choose a side or be swept away. A raucous and poignant tale in which a bunch of underdogs use every trick in the book to outwit the Nazis and save nearly 50,000 Jewish lives.
Fresh from a New York run, the Edinburgh Fringe smash hit and Off West End awardwinner is now heading to the Mercury Theatre.
Award-winning Out Of The Forest Theatre’s irreverent comedy - featuring live music inspired by Bulgarian and Jewish folk tunes - tells the incredible true story that the world forgot.
‘Razor-sharp wit and faultless timing, a spirited celebration of the Bulgarian monarch who outwitted Hitler and saved thousands of Jewish lives.’ ★★★★★ The Scotsman
‘THE hit of the Edinburgh Fringe.’ ★★★★★ Times Radio
‘Historically poignant and hysterically funny.’ ★★★★★ West End Best Friend Thu 17 – Sat 19
Sensory Cinders
See website for times | £12 | All ages
Direct from the West End, Sensory Cinders is a new sensory pantomime adaptation of Cinderella for audiences labelled with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), featuring original music that explores themes of identity, self-expression, transformation, magic, personas, authenticity and connectedness. What does it mean to pursue self-love and understanding in a world that doesn’t understand you?
The production features specially designed sensory materials by Henshaws Arts & Crafts, a Yorkshire-based collective supporting local learning-disabled visual artists. The show marks all the artists’ professional theatre debuts.
Sensory Cinders is a co-production from the multi-award-winning sensory theatre company Concrete Youth and the nationally recognised venue Barnsley Civic. The production is presented in partnership with @sohoplace and Henshaws Arts Centre. Sensory Cinders is supported by Sheffield Theatres and Arts Council England. The production’s development was supported by the National Theatre’s Generate programme.
Colchester Fringe returns to the city with more fun, bold and extraordinary fringe performances than ever before. Fringe will spill out on the streets of Colchester and also pop up in the Mercury Studio! We hope to see you there!
Tue 29 – Wed 30 Oct
Billy Banana’s Brilliant Bingo
See website for times | £10 | 3+
Essex based children’s entertainer and Braintree panto legend Billy Banana brings his Edinburgh Fringe Festival smash hit show to Colchester Fringe. It’s an interactive extravaganza for all the family. Expect lots of laughter, games, prizes, music and lots of fun!! Highlights include 12 days of Colchester, Catch The Sausage, Can you guess? & much, much more...
Tue 29 Oct – Sun 3 Nov
Fates Fortune
See website for times | £10 | 12+
Welcome to Fates Fortune, where you can explore Tarot through immersive theatre and visual art. Tap into your divine intuition as we journey into this ancient practice, shaping the unfolding storyline together. Discover the profound wisdom and guidance within each card and unlock the secrets of the Tarot to unearth the divine messages that await us. Join us for a contemporary exploration of this captivating art form.
Tue 29 Oct – Sun 3 Nov
Visual Arts Play
Two Come Home
See website for times | £10 | 16+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
A decade after a dramatic split, star-crossed lovers reunite at the worst time. Guilt, rage, and love collide in this new play with music.
Two Come Home explores the realities of being gay in an impoverished rural community. Focusing on ex-con Evan’s rocky ties with his kin and past flame, this production boasts a queer Colchester based team both on and off stage.
Burnt Out
See website for times | £10 | 12+
One Australian’s experience of our changing climate.
Burnt Out is a solo dance theatre work centred around our changing climate. Weaving spoken word and movement we are taken on a journey through past bushfires including Penny’s own experiences, through their ignition and devastation, and left with space to ponder how we got here.
★★★★ ‘a surprisingly complete and satisfying solo performance’ British Theatre Guide
1 – Sun 3
SESKA: Don’t Wee Your Pants
See website for times | £10 | All ages
Crazier than finding a penguin in your fridge, the funniest family friendly comedian is back with a new chaotic comedy magic show!
‘One of the world’s top comedy magicians’ BBC Radio
‘The funniest comedian entertaining families in the UK’ London Evening Standard
Winner Spirit of the Fringe Colchester Fringe Festival
Winner Best Family Show Mumbai Arts Festival
The Lab
See website for times | £10 | All ages
Join us for an innovative dance performance set in a laboratory, blending dance with projection visuals. Awarded the Silver Medal at the 2022 Singapore International Dance Festival, this production explores themes of discovery and experimentation. Witness a groundbreaking spectacle that combines movement and multimedia, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of art and science. Don’t miss this captivating and visually stunning experience!
MAC present The Tempest
See website for times | £10 | 8+
Exclusively at Colchester Fringe, our Mercury Adult Company will perform in their first public Studio production, an hour-long version of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Join Prospera’s quest for revenge and Caliban’s fight for what is rightfully his. Experience this timeless tale with a cast of twenty set on the magical island of Mersea, featuring magic, betrayal and a unique fringe twist!
The Mercury is a place where anyone, regardless of background, can take part in our exciting programme of weekly workshops and classes for adults and young people that are designed to develop performance skills, build confidence, meet new people and unleash your creative side!
MYC
Mercury Young Company, or MYC, is our yearround ensemble of young people training to be the theatre-makers of tomorrow.
Our groups meet weekly to explore playful new methods of storytelling and to create exciting pieces of theatre. Our fun, friendly classes focus on training young people to work together as an ensemble.
See website for term dates £98 – £112 per term*
MYC Musical Theatre
See website for dates, Saturdays 2pm-4pm £140 per term* 5-17s 13-17s
Run by West End professionals and experienced performers, this weekly dynamic class provides young people with an introduction to musical theatre.
Each term we explore songs and create ensemble numbers that explore how to integrate the singing, dance and acting techniques needed to perform on the West End stage.
Twinkles & Stars
4mths-3yrs
Interactive, multi-sensory classes for early years children and their grown-up friends.
Imagination and creativity are a vital part of a child’s early life and these 45-minute sessions are designed to stimulate both. Through storytelling, dance and music, Tots provides parents and carers an opportunity to explore creative play with nothing but home materials and a sprinkle of imagination.
Tuesday mornings, see website for dates £6.50 per session
Tots Twinkles 10:30am for babies and crawlers
Tots Stars 11:30am for walkers
Acting Up!
For beginners and those with vast experience, these workshops are for those aged 18 and over with an interest in acting. Within these fun and practical sessions you’ll get the chance to devise original work, improvisation, unlock texts, explore different techniques and develop performance skills. Through friendships and the networking of likeminded individuals, we encourage and support participants to produce work themselves as well as engaging with other Mercury creatives across our Talent department. Come and be a vital part of the Mercury’s artistic network –join today!
See website for dates, Saturdays, 4-6pm £8.50 per session
Pilates
Delivered in partnership with Le Barre, Pilates is a low-impact workout that comprises a variety of stretches achieved through precise poses to help you achieve a lean physique while challenging you mentally, physically and spiritually. Pilates is an effective stress release and mood booster, as well as being a brilliant way to keep fit.
See website for dates, Wednesdays 1pm
£7.50 per session
Musical Theatre Dance
Each week our experienced choreographers will teach routines inspired by hit musicals in our gorgeous dance studio. With routines from classic and contemporary shows, you will be introduced to various styles such as Modern Jazz, Latin, Hip-Hop and many more.
Staying active whilst dancing to your favourite show tunes – who could ask for anything more?
Why not join us for a drink afterwards? All dancers receive a 10% discount on their first drink in our café bar.
See website for dates, Tuesdays, 6pm & 7pm £6.50 per session
Hip Hop Dance
Forget ‘break-a-leg!’, it’s time to breakdance!
Come and join our new Hip Hop class for over 18s! Classes are for any level, whether you’re a regular Hip Hop-per or a complete beginner you are welcome to come and take part. Throughout the term you will explore various Hip-Hop styles and participant feedback will be instrumental in the focus of future sessions.
See website for dates, Wednesdays 7:30-9pm £7 per session
Working with Schools and Teachers
At the Mercury we work with hundreds of children and young people from across Essex every year. Our workshops and projects are designed to support teachers in delivering the National Curriculum as well as fostering creativity, confidence and problem-solving skills and improving children’s empathy and resilience. Our workshops in school and after school clubs cover a wide range of subjects including Literacy, History, Science, Social Studies and, of course, Drama. We also work with schools to develop bespoke programmes to meet their students’ specific needs. All of our offers can be tailored for SEND pupils.
Our Teachers’ Network and CPD workshops support educators to develop their professional and performance skills, with options including Unlocking Shakespeare, Physical Theatre, CrossCurricular Development and Confidence in Delivery.
Visit our website for a full overview of our educational offer or contact us on taking.part@mercurytheatre.co.uk
Supporters & Funders
Corporate Supporters
We’re proud to partner with these outstanding local companies. With all eyes on our new building, there has never been a better time to join us. Visit mercurytheatre.co.uk/support to learn more.
Premier Partners
Limelight Partners
Thank you to our Funders
Panto headline sponsor:
Our Upstairs Bar is generously supported by:
We are grateful to the following for their support of the Mercury Theatre:
Active Essex
Arts Council England
Colchester City Council
Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities
D’Oyly Cart Charitable Trust
Essex Community Foundation
Essex County Council
European Regional Development Fund
FSJ Charities
King Coel’s Kittens
National Lottery Community Fund
Sport England
Theatres Trust
The Wolfson Foundation
Your Visit
Car Parking
Car parking can be found at St Mary’s car park (CO3 3AA), a short walk from the theatre.
When buying show tickets in advance of your visit, discounted parking tickets can be purchased for £2.95. Accessible parking spaces outside the theatre can be booked online by joining our Access for All scheme or via the Box Office.
Café Bar
We offer a warm friendly welcome to everyone –whether you’re coming in to book tickets, watch a show or visiting the town, our café bar caters for all. We serve a wide selection of cakes, pastries, snacks and light meals, alongside a range of teas, coffees, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Where possible, our ingredients are sourced locally, our coffee is Fairtrade and our takeaway cups are recyclable.
If you’re watching a show don’t forget to preorder interval drinks and avoid the rush. We promise your ice cream will still be frozen and your drinks, chilled!
How To Find Us
The Mercury Theatre is only one hour from London by car or train. Following the theatre mask symbols on the road signs will take you to St Mary’s car park (CO3 3AA) which is a short walk across the Balkerne Hill footbridge to the theatre.
For a more detailed map please visit our website.
Your Tickets
Tickets can be booked online, over the phone, or in person. We offer e-tickets which can be printed or saved on your mobile phone to show our friendly ushers.
Book Tickets
mercurytheatre.co.uk tickets@mercurytheatre.co.uk 01206 573948
Our friendly team is available to assist you Tue to Sat 10am until 8pm. The box office will be open prior to performances on Sundays.
To find out more about your visit, view a seating plan, or for further booking information, please visit our website.
Disclaimer
All details in this brochure are correct at the time of going to print. Colchester Mercury Theatre Ltd reserves the right to make alterations where necessary. Brochure design by Poulsen Selleck. Printed by Arcane Direct Marketing. Registered Charity No. 232387. Company Registered in England No. 441035.
