What’s
On Sep 2025-Jan 2026
Hello!
We’re delighted to bring you a bold and exciting mix of new writing, festive fun, and unforgettable theatre. Whether you’re a familiar face or visiting for the very first time, there’s something waiting here just for you.
This season, don’t miss Private Lives by Noël Coward, directed by RTST award-winner Tanuja Amarasuriya, and associate company Frantic Assembly’s thrilling new production, Lost Atoms. We’re also proud to announce the world premiere of The Manningtree Witches by Ava Pickett, adapted from A. K. Blakemore’s award-winning novel and directed by our Artistic Director, Natasha Rickman.
In the Studio, discover Swallow the Lake by Mercury Playwright Tassa Deparis, and for little ones, The Ho Ho Ho! Mrs Christmas Show is a festive treat for ages 3 and up – plus a chance to meet Santa himself in our magical Grotto!
This Christmas, we’re pulling out all the stops with Mother Goose, our joyous pantomime extravaganza celebrating 10 golden years of the hilarious double act Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville. It’s going to be a cracker! And don’t forget our Taking Part programme — packed with creative opportunities for all ages. See page 24 to get involved.
Whether it’s for a show, a workshop, or a festive visit, we can’t wait to welcome 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 £6.50.
• 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 under 26s 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)
A co-production between Mercury Theatre Colchester, Octagon Theatre Bolton & Rose Theatre, in association with Northern Stage and supported by a grant from The Royal Theatrical Support Trust
Private Lives
Director Tanuja Amarasuriya
Set & Costume Designer Amy Jane Cook
Lighting Designer Chris Davey
Sound Designer Tim X Atack
Movement Director Kloe Dean
Fight & Intimacy Director Haruka Kuroda
Casting Director Polly Jerrold
Wed 1 – Sat 11 Oct
Love and chaos collide in Noël Coward’s timeless comedy.
Amanda and Elyot are charming, rich, utterly reckless – and divorced. When they meet unexpectedly on the first night of their honeymoons with new partners, in the balmy moonlight of the French Riviera, old flames re-ignite, and impulsive love takes hold. But they divorced for a reason, and their fiery romance soon spirals into a chaotic riot of passionate desire, slanging matches and outrageous battles.
Set against a backdrop of 1930s glamour, Noël Coward’s Private Lives is a sparkling comedy of manners – hilarious, shocking, and a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with razorsharp wit, sizzling chemistry, and timeless sophistication.
Directed by the winner of the RTST Sir Peter Hall Director Award 2024: Tanuja Amarasuriya.
See website for times Tickets from £16
Age Guidance 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Jump straight to the show page
Sat 11 Oct 2:30pm Audio Described Sat 11 Oct 7:30pm Captioned CAP AD RP QA
Thu 9 Oct 2:30pm Relaxed performance
Thu 9 Oct 7:30pm Post-show Q&A
A Mercury Original in association with HighTide Swallow The Lake
Written by Tassa Deparis
Director Yasmin Hafesji
Thu 2 – Sat 11 Oct
“There are things that make me look at you anew.”
Joanna and Joseph have just relocated to a quiet town in Essex with their young children. When they host their first dinner party in their new home, an old story resurfaces - along with a word that never should have been said. What follows is a rupture. A single moment reverberates through years of trust, affection, and silence, shaking the very foundation of their relationship.
In the wreckage, we are pulled back - back to their first meeting, to a shared childhood shaped by army barracks and English hillsides. Together, we march through memory and time, tracing the thread of their connection from innocence through complexity, loyalty, love and all that lies between.
Can a lifelong friendship survive the cracks in the country that raised it?
This world premiere production is in association with HighTide. It is written by Tassa Deparis in response to the Summer 2024 riots and protests and directed by Yasmin Hafesji. Developed on the Mercury Playwrights programme in association with Paines Plough’s Tour the Writer programme.
See website for times
Tickets from £12
Age Guidance 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Jump straight to the show page
CREATIVES
Writer David Phipps-Davis
Director Natasha Rickman
Designer Jasmine Swan
Creative Consultant Antony Stuart-Hicks
Lighting Designer Jane Lalljee
Sound Designer Lex Kosanke
Musical Director Joshua Tarrier
Choreographer Rosie Mather
Assistant Director Dale Superville
A Mercury Production
Mother Goose
Sat 22 Nov 2025 – Sun 18 Jan 2026
Pantomime
Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth! To celebrate ten golden years of the legendary duo Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville, the Mercury Theatre present the mother of all pantos –Mother Goose!
Gertie Goose (Stuart-Hicks) and her daughter run the Three Rings Circus, but their nest egg is running low, and if they can’t pay the rent, it’s curtains! Just when all seems lost, a fairy with a few tricks up her sleeves casts a spell on Billy the Goose (Superville) – and suddenly, he’s laying golden eggs faster than you can say “honk!” With riches at their wingtips, the circus is saved!
But trouble is brewing… their wicked landlady, green with envy, swoops in disguised as a beauty guru, tempting Gertie with the promise of eternal youth – but at a terrible price: Billy must be traded! Will she fall for the fowl play, or will good triumph over greed?
Expect breath-taking sets, dazzling costumes, side-splitting comedy and plenty of Mercury magic in this eggs-traordinary festive treat for the whole family. So flock to the box office, grab your golden tickets and get ready for an unmissable adventure this Christmas!
Fri 5 Dec 12pm Relaxed
Fri 5 Dec 7pm BSL interpreted
Sat 6 Dec 12:30pm Touch Tour
Sat 6 Dec 2pm Audio Described
Sat 6 Dec 7pm Captioned
Tue 6 - Fri 9 Jan 7:30pm Adult performances
Sat 10 Jan 2pm BSL interpreted & Relaxed
Tue 13 - Thu 15 Jan 7:30pm Adult performances
Fri 16 Jan 7:30pm Adult & BSL interpreted
Sat 17 Jan 2pm Captioned
Sat 17 Jan 5:30pm Touch Tour
Sat 17 Jan 7pm Audio Described
See website for times
Tickets from £10
Age Guidance 5+ (Family Shows), 18+ (Adult Shows)
Jump straight to the show page
Gertie Goose
Antony Stuart-Hicks
Billy the Goose
Dale Superville
Tue 2 – Wed 24 Dec
See website for times | From £10.50 | 3+ Family
It’s the annual North Pole Yuletide Party and you’re all invited this year!
Mrs Christmas is making all the preparations, but she has so many friends to help and problems to solve, things aren’t going as planned. Mrs Christmas and the Elves will need your help!
It won’t be long before Father Christmas starts the celebrations and welcomes this year’s guest of honour. Will everything be ready and who is this year’s extra special guest?
From the team behind The Ho Ho Ho! Christmas Show comes a new enchanting show about thankfulness. Full of fun, magic and wonder it’s the perfect festive treat for all the family to enjoy together.
“If you want something perfect for the younger members of the family - this is it.” Swindon Advertiser
Tue 2 – Wed 24 Dec
See website for times | £15 | All ages
Writer Gail Egbeson
Director Ollie Harrington
Set Designers Rhiannan Howell & David Thomas
Join us for a heart-warming festive adventure as you and your group journey to Lapland, where the magic of Christmas comes alive in Santa’s cosy grotto.
This isn’t just any visit – Santa needs your help! Gather round for a delightful 20-minute interactive storytelling experience, where you’ll sit down with Santa himself as he shares how he’s getting ready for the big night on December 24th. He’s full of festive cheer, and he has a very special job for his young visitors…
Once you’ve helped Santa with his important preparations, each family will have the chance to meet him one-on-one for a photo and receive a magical gift. Every child will receive a keepsake ornament – something to treasure, hang on the tree, and help Santa find their home year after year.
Family
A Mercury Original
The Manningtree Witches
Adapted by Ava Pickett
Based on the novel by A.
K. Blakemore Director Natasha Rickman
Sat 28 Feb – Sat 14 Mar
“It does not matter what is true, or not true. All that matters is what is written down.”
Essex, 1643. A country divided. A town on it’s knees. A teenage girl with a dangerous secret.
As the Civil War rages on, in the quiet town of Manningtree, most of the men have gone off to fight. 17 year old Rebecca West is like any teenager, brimming with self-doubt, consumed with unrequited love, and in a never-ending cycle of arguments with her mother. As food runs out, and more men leave, Rebecca and her best friend Judith wait for something, anything, to happen in Manningtree.
But change is coming. When the mysterious Matthew Hopkins buys a pub, he brings questions. What does a young man like Matthew want with a town like Manningtree? Why has he come? And why is he so interested in Rebecca? But when an incident between Rebecca’s mother and a local boy plunges the town into discord, those questions are answered with horrifying frenzy.
This is a thrilling world premiere that tells the true story of England’s first Witchfinder General, and wrenches the women he killed out from the shadows of history and into the spotlight.
Adapted by award-winning Mercury Playwright and screenwriter Ava Pickett and directed by Natasha Rickman, this gripping historical drama is a fiercely modern exploration of fear, control, and what happens when women’s voices are silenced.
Thu 12 Mar 2:30pm Relaxed
Thu 12 Mar 7:30pm Post show Q&A
Sat 14 Mar 1pm Touch Tour
Sat 14 Mar 2:30pm Audio Described Sat 14 Mar 7:30pm
See website for times
Tickets from £15.50 Age Guidance 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult) Play
Jump straight to the show page
The Manningtree Witches was developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme.
Wed 10 Sep Comedy
Suzi Ruffell: The Juggle
7:30pm | £19 | 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
It’s hard to be good at everything—mother, daughter, partner, friend, and smashing life while making it look easy. Suzi Ruffell gets it. In her brand-new stand-up tour, The Juggle, this multi-award-winning comedian delivers laughs and support in equal measure. Seen on Live at the Apollo and QI, Suzi also hosts hit podcasts and her debut book Am I Having Fun Now? is out June 2025. Don’t miss this hilarious show!
Fri 12 Sep Music
Red Sky at Sunrise
7:30pm | £27.50 – £30.50 | 12+
Direct from the RSC, Anton Lesser (Andor, Endeavour, Wolf Hall) tells Laurie Lee’s extraordinary story, in a captivating weave of music, and Lee’s own words. Red Sky follows Lee’s Cider With Rosie trilogy, from Slad to the Spanish Civil War. Anton and Charlie Hamblett (Missing You, Killing Eve) play Lee, and a rich array of other characters. Featuring music by Vaughan Williams, Britten, Turina and more, performed by Orchestra of the Swan and Mark Ashford.
Thu 11 Sep Variety
An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret
7:30pm | £25 – £33 | 18+
Roll up, roll up... the UK’s longest-running burlesque show returns with An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret! This dazzling celebration blends cabaret, comedy, music, and burlesque into a spectacular extravaganza of glitz and glamour. Featuring dazzling showgirls, specialty acts, and stars of stage and screen, it’s a night of feathers, fun, and fabulous costumes. Expect glitter, glamour, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss this sensational showcase—tickets are on sale now!
Thu 18 – Sun 21 Sep
CO2: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
See website for times | £16 – £27.50 | 5+
Award-winning Colchester Operatic Society Second Edition (CO2) present Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Based on Roald Dahl’s classic, this family-friendly musical features songs from the 1971 film, including Candy Man and Pure Imagination. Join Charlie Bucket and four golden ticket winners as they explore Willy Wonka’s magical factory filled with Oompa-Loompas, nutty squirrels, and endless chocolate. Don’t miss this sweet musical treat—grab your golden ticket today!
Tue 23 Sep
Showstopper!
- The Improvised Musical
7:30pm | £24 – £28.50 | 12+
Wed 24 Sep Music
The Magic of the Bee Gees
7:30pm | £25 – £33 | 12+
Olivier award-winning spontaneous musical comedy - direct from the West End to the Mercury Theatre! The Showstoppers improvise a hilarious new musical every night, entirely made up from audience suggestions. With rave reviews, global tours, and a BBC Radio 4 series, this hilarious, high-energy show blends comedy, catchy songs, and dazzling routines - all completely improvised and different every night.
★★★★★ “Incredible...defies belief.” The Telegraph
Sat 27 Sep
Talks
John Simpson: The Leaders and Lunatics Tour
2pm | £32.50 – £44.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
After a sell-out 2024 tour, legendary journalist John Simpson CBE returns with a bold look at leadership – why some inspire and others descend into tyranny. Drawing on 60 years of access to world figures from Mandela to Putin, he explores what shapes great and terrible leaders. In a world facing war, famine, and climate crisis, John offers sharp insight –and answers your questions in a compelling evening for our turbulent times. Musical
Whether you’re a brother or whether you’re a mother, when the feeling’s gone and you can’t go on, it’s time to put on your dancing shoes, for the night out of the year you have been waiting for, as we celebrate the songs of music royalty, The Bee Gees.
Join us for this breath-taking concert spectacular, including all your favourite songs, including Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, More Than a Woman and many more!
Need some space?
Our building can be your home too! We have a range of spaces available to hire, whether it’s a class, a conference or even just a desk, we’ve got room for you! Get in touch to find your perfect fit... hires@mercurytheatre.co.uk
Sat 27 Sep
Adam Frost
Talks
7:30pm | £27 – £37 | 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Award-winning garden designer and BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost is heading back on tour! In his most personal show yet, Adam shares untold stories of a life shaped by plants, from curating gardens worldwide to navigating change and reconnecting with nature. With amusing anecdotes, heartfelt reflections, and insights into his artistic process, Adam explores gardening, family, and wellbeing in a way that’s both inspiring and deeply human. Don’t miss it!
Fri 17 Oct Play
Teechers
7:30pm | £22.50 | 12+
Join Gail, Hobby and Salty as they present their hilarious end-of-term play and tell the tale of their new drama teacher’s progress at their chaotic school. After two terms of rowdy students, and burned-out staff – will he abandon hope for a private school job?
Written by John Godber, this high energy comedy is a modern theatre classic with a punchy political message about the state of our country’s education system.
An Eastern Angles & New Wolsey Theatre co-production.
Tue 14 - Thu 16 Oct Family
S4K’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
See website for times | £22.50 – £32.50 | 5+
First acclaimed at the Edinburgh Festival in the 1990s, this musical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream from Shakespeare 4 Kidz is a lively, funny, and accessible retelling of Shakespeare’s classic. Touring globally since its 2007 Dubai debut, it remains a school favourite. The story follows royal weddings, runaway lovers, bumbling tradesmen, and feuding fairies – all tangled in magical mischief, thanks to the playful sprite Puck. What could possibly go wrong?
Sat 18 Oct Music
Diana & Lionel - Endless Love The Show
7:30pm | £28.50 – £31.50 | 12+
Starring a sensational cast, incredible vocals and a stellar live band, Endless Love is the ultimate feel good night out and it celebrates the two legendary artistes Diana Ross and Lionel Richie.
The show is packed with Motown classics and timeless smash hits such as I’m Coming Out, Chain Reaction, All Night Long, Hello, Can’t Hurry Love and of course the number one duet of all time – Endless Love, plus many more.
Sun 19 Oct
Music
The Carpenters - Voice of the Heart
7:30pm | £32.50 – £34.50 | 12+
Over 30 years since Karen Carpenter’s passing, her timeless music lives on. This stunning show celebrates all the Carpenters hits – Yesterday Once More, Goodbye to Love, Close to You, Only Yesterday – and many more. With superb vocals from Carole Gordon and the brilliant Blue Jeans Band & Singers, it’s a night to remember. If you love great music, you’ll love this show.
Dreamcoat Stars
7:30pm | £28 – £30 | All ages
Tue 21 - Wed 22 Oct Community
TheatreFest
7:30pm | £9 | 11+
TheatreFest brings together students, teachers, and theatre professionals from across Essex. It is a chance for schools and our Mercury Young Company in the Community groups to devise a themed 10-minute theatre piece to be showcased on the Mercury stage. This year the groups are devising pieces inspired by our associate company Frantic Assembly who are celebrating their 30th anniversary,
Access for All
We believe theatre and all of the activities and services we offer should be accessible to all! If you have any access requirements, please visit our Access for All page to find out how we can ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible: mercurytheatre.co.uk/ enjoy-your-visit/access-for-all
Stars of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat sing the greatest musical hits. Dreamcoat Stars are back! Experience the UK’s biggest night of musical smash-hits in this star-studded concert with everyone’s favourite musical hits, Les Misérables, We Will Rock You, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Saturday Night Fever, Mamma Mia and Jersey Boys.
Grab your coat of many colours and join us on your Dreamcoat journey where Any Dream Will Do. Thu 23 Oct Music
Sat 25 - Sun 26 Oct Family
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show
See website for times | Adult: £20.50 Child: £18.50 | All ages
Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand new live stage show!
With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the big day.
There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time?
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones, and is set to delight audiences across the UK.
Praise for Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever: ★★★★ “A loving recreation of the TV show.” The Stage
“We’d go back and watch it again - we loved it!” Mumsnet
Fri 24 Oct Comedy
Su Pollard - Still Fully Charged
7:30pm | £30 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Su Pollard - Still Fully Charged celebrates 50 years of Su’s showbiz career in a one-woman variety show packed with songs, stories, and beloved characters. With dazzling costumes, props, and live music, Su takes audiences on a journey from her early auditions to TV fame. Described as “hilarious,” “brilliant,” and “A-MA-ZING,” this show proves why Su remains a true national treasure.
Grab a fancy gin, locally brewed beer or a freshly cooked meal before the show!
Open all day before a show 10am-Late
Wed 29 Oct Music
Don’t Dilly Dally - Music Hall
1pm | £24.50 – £27.50 | All ages
Don’t Dilly Dally and book tickets for an afternoon of songs and laughter, as we bring the UK’s best Music Hall acts to Colchester for a unique and entertaining show, accompanied by special guests to be announced.
Jump onto your Bicycle Made for Two and Let’s All Go Down The Strand to the Old Bull & Bush for a fun, nostalgic afternoon that will have you singing along.
Fri 31 Oct Music
Rock for Heroes
7:30pm | £25 – £27.50 | All ages
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 Queen, AC/DC, Guns ‘N Roses, Bon Jovi, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fleetwood Mac and more!
Let Rock for Heroes take you back to that Summer of ‘69 and join us for the BIGGEST celebration of the Heroes of Rock!
Thu 30 Oct
Talks
Dr Richard Shepherd
7:30pm | £29.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Join Dr Richard Shepherd, the UK’s top forensic pathologist, as he returns to the stage with Unnatural Causes – Time of Death. With over 23,000 autopsies and some of history’s most notorious cases under his belt, Dr Shepherd explores how time reveals the truths behind deaths, from accidents to murders. This deeply personal and moving show offers unique insight into the dark world of forensic pathology and how it has shaped his perspective on life.
COS: Guys and Dolls
See website for times | £16 – £27.50 | 12+
Get your dice ready! Colchester Operatic Society presents Guys and Dolls. Follow Nathan Detroit, his long-suffering fiancée Adelaide, gambler Sky Masterson, and mission leader Sarah Brown in this Broadway classic. Will Adelaide get her wedding? And why is Sarah mixing with gamblers? Featuring iconic songs like Luck Be a Lady and Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat, this award-winning production is not to be missed! Thu 29 Jan - Sun 8 Feb
A Frantic Assembly Production, co-produced by Curve, Mayflower Southampton and Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
Tue 4 – Sat 8 Nov
Play
See website for times | £15.50 - £35 | 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Lost Atoms tells the story of a relationship: an extraordinary, transformative love.
Or is that only in hindsight? Perhaps it was just typical? Or toxic? Or doomed from the start? One thing’s for sure: it changed their lives. Two people plunge deep into their shared pasts and propel themselves into multiple imagined futures.
At times hilarious, at times devastating, Lost Atoms explores how memory impacts the way we look at love, and asks what makes a truly “successful” relationship?
Following sellout tours of Othello and Metamorphosis, Frantic Assembly returns with a brandnew play for its 30th Anniversary year, written by Anna Jordan (Succession, Killing Eve, The Unreturning, Yen).
“Frantic Assembly have been rewriting the rulebook for nearly three decades...” The Times
Studio
With 98 seats, the Studio is an intimate and welcoming space where everyone can enjoy live performance. It’s the home of bold new writing, exciting adaptations, and the very best of theatre festivals. Whether you’re introducing little ones to their first theatre experience or looking to discover something fresh and unexpected, the Studio is the perfect place to be inspired!
Fri 12 Sep, Fri 17 Oct
The Comedy Network
8pm | £13 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Book three or more dates & 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. Previous line-ups have included Sophie Duker, Jayde Adams and Simon Brodkin.
Thu 11 Sep Sat 13 Sep Play Music
Shotgunned
8pm | £15 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Written and directed by Matt Anderson, performed by Lorna Panton & Fraser Allan Hogg. Following a smash hit, sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, this ★★★★★ (The Stage) “astonishingly accomplished” new play kicks off its next journey this autumn.
Equal parts hilarious and heart-breaking, Shotgunned is an intimate and relatable piece about how the people we lose shape who we become.
La Bouche Manouche feat. Irene Serra
8pm | £19.50 | All ages
Join La Bouche Manouche and criticallyacclaimed jazz vocalist Irene Serra in an evening of much-loved gypsy jazz tunes and foot-tapping swing numbers from the Great American songbook, all in their inimitable Manouche style! From Django Reinhardt originals to Billie Holiday classics, favourite swing tunes, French chansons and tangos, this show is an unmissable evening of gypsy jazz celebration.
Sat 27 Sep
The Tale of the Loneliest Whale
See website for times | £12.50 | 2+
Whale sings into the ocean, but no one joins his song – until a quiet, beautiful voice reaches him. Determined, he journeys through coral caves, jellyfish blooms, and sea monsters to find another who hears him.
Join Hoglets Theatre for a magical children’s adventure with puppetry, music, and storytelling. A deep-sea tale of friendship, empathy, and embracing differences –showing that being unique can be challenging but also beautiful.
Thu 16 Oct
Trans Lady Sings!
8pm | £13.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
To Alice, classical music seemed terrifyingly stratified: Soprano, Contralto, Tenor, Bass; is the role you play always ordained by the limits of your voice? At Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival Alice set a challenge; to try to overcome her childhood inability to sing... this is the result of her eccentric endeavours. Vocal identity, life-long learning and our need for self-expression are explored in prose, verse, comedy and foolishly, song!
Tue 14 Oct
Manic
8pm | £13.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Winner of Best Solo Show at FUSE International 2022, MANIC follows Raina as she confronts her past sexual experiences after spotting her exes at a gig. Blending spoken word, DIY puppetry, and TedTalk comedy, this hilarious yet heartbreaking show explores bad sex, murky consent, and emotional fallout – with burlesque, PowerPoints, and surprise Michael Cera cameos. Can you say you were violated without blaming someone you loved?
Sat 18 - Sun 19 Oct
Outlawed
8pm | £16.50 | 18+
Get ready for a wild night at The Major Oak, Sherwood Forest’s hottest speakeasy! Robin and their Merry Fools bring you a madcap cabaret of burlesque, drag, and comedy—with Marian, Tuck’d, and a sensually terrifying Sheriff in tow. After sold-out shows in Nottingham, the gang is hitting the road. Stealing from the rich has never looked so sexy. Get ready to party and get Outlawed in style!
Colchester Fringe Festival returns to the city from 24 Oct – 2 Nov with more fun, bold and extraordinary performances. Stay tuned for the Mercury Studio line-up coming to our website soon!
Tue 4 Nov
Alex McAleer: Mind Reader
8pm | £15 | 12+
Alex McAleer possesses the uncanny ability to apparently tap into his audience’s minds and read their thoughts at will. With award nominated, sell-out shows around the globe, Alex has earned his reputation as a charismatic entertainer. Featuring unbelievable demonstrations of his psychological skills, this show is interactive, engaging, and laugh out loud funny.
Wed 5 Nov
The Silence of Snow
8pm | £16.50 | 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
A riveting and kinetic solo show which vividly portrays the life of one of the great English writers of the inter-war years, Patrick Hamilton, who first gave us the term ‘gaslighting’, meaning to manipulate a person’s sense of reality. A witty and engaging tribute to the author of Hangover Square, Rope and Gaslight.
Thu 6 Nov Fri 7 - Sat 8 Nov
Dial 1 For UK
8pm | £13.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
A gripping one-man show written and performed by Mohit Mathur, Dial 1 for UK unpacks the illusion that the grass is always greener on the other side. Leaving behind everything for the dream of a better life in the UK, a call centre worker and Youtube influencer arrives full of hope – only to find himself trapped in the harsh reality of living undocumented.
The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return
8pm | £13.50 | 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)
Two best mates chase the highs of youth on one chaotic night in Luton – noughties bangers, cheap gin, and buried anger. A raw, lyrical collision of friendship, violence, and joy, set against a backdrop of austerity and survival. Fresh from a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe, this is a fierce, funny exploration of class, identity, and the parties that shape us.
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
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.
See website for dates, Saturdays 2pm-4pm £130 per term*
Tots Twinkles & Stars
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
Carers Workshops
8-15s & 18+
Thanks to Essex Carers funding, we are delighted to be providing workshops for local, unpaid carers. There are two weekly workshops; one for 8-15s and the other for 18+ held at Greenstead Community Centre.
Sessions are free and designed for carers who may have never taken part in drama sessions before. As well as theatrical skills, our workshops develop communication, confidence, teamwork and leadership.
See website for dates, Mondays – 5-6.30pm FREE
Pilates
18+
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 1-2pm £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?
See website for dates, Tuesdays, 6:15pm £6.50 per session
Zumba
Join us for a fun and relaxed dance fitness class combining Latin and World rhythms. This class is perfect for active older adults or someone looking for a more relaxed class, that recreates the original moves you love at a lower-intensity. The class introduces easyto-follow choreography that aims to improve balance, range of motion and coordination. Come ready to sweat, have fun and prepare to leave confident and feeling strong!
See website for dates, Thursdays 10.15-11am £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, Cross-Curricular 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. Join us today and enjoy the access, hospitality and profile offered by our partnership programmes. Visit mercurytheatre.co.uk/support to learn more.
Premier Partners
Limelight Partners
Our Creative Engagement activity has been made possible with the generous support of
We are grateful to the following for their support of the Mercury Theatre:
• Arts Council England
• Colchester City Council
• Essex County Council
• Essex Youth Service
• FSJ Charities
• Hervey Benham Charitable Trust
• King Coel’s Kittens
• Level Best
• National Lottery Community Fund & UK Government
• Philip Carne MBE and Christine Carne
• Sport England
• Theatres Trust
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 £3.30. 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 city, 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 Brightsea Printing. Registered Charity No. 232387. Company Registered in England No. 441035.
