Comedy and Theatre
Kiri Pritchard-McLean: A Foster Parent’s Comedy Journey
Date: 17 October
Venue: Colchester Arts Centre
Kiri Pritchard-McLean, host of Live at the Apollo and Radio 4’s Best Medicine, brings her unique comedy to the stage. She’ll share her experiences as a foster parent, a role she’s kept under wraps until now. Join “Louise” for an evening of laughter and insights into social work, first aid training, and foster care adventures.
Book tickets at Colchester Arts Centre
Abigail’s Party: A Suburban Comedy Classic
Date: 2-12 October
Venue: Mercury Theatre
Mike Leigh’s cult classic comedy gets a fresh twist. Beverly’s cocktail party and Abigail’s teenage bash collide in this satirical look at suburban life. Prepare for a party like no other!
Get tickets at Mercury Theatre
Music Festivals and Concerts
Hatfield House Music Festival: Musical Time Travel
Date: 10-13 October
Venue: Hatfield House
Experience a journey through musical eras with performances by renowned artists and emerging talents. The festival explores how music transcends time and place, featuring diverse acts from classical to jazz.
Learn more at Hatfield House Music Festival
Tubular Bells: A Cinematic Classic Live
Date: 19 October
Venue: Cliffs Pavilion
Witness the iconic soundtrack of “The Exorcist” performed live. This expansive production, conducted by Mike Oldfield’s collaborator Robin Smith, brings the legendary album to life on stage.
Purchase tickets via Trafalgar Tickets
Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
Date: 31 October
Venue: Cliffs Pavilion
Join musical maestro Jools Holland for an evening of rhythm and blues. Special guests Marc Almond and guitar prodigy Toby Lee add to this unmissable musical event.
Book your spot at Trafalgar Tickets
Dance and Visual Arts
Lord of the Dance: 25th Anniversary Revival
Date: 8-13 October
Venue: Cliffs Pavilion
Michael Flatley’s groundbreaking Irish dance spectacle returns to Essex. This updated production promises to captivate a new generation with its high-energy performances and timeless appeal.
Secure your tickets at Trafalgar Tickets
Jane Ostler: Finding The Hand of Kindness
Date: From 12 October
Venue: Firstsite
Explore the therapeutic power of art through Jane Ostler’s personal and shared experiences. This exhibition reflects on caregiving, societal expectations, and everyday kindness.
Visit Firstsite for more information
Musical Theatre
Come What May: A Tribute to Moulin Rouge
Date: 23 October
Venue: Cliffs Pavilion
Starring Jazzy Phoenix from EastEnders and featuring AJ & Curtis Pritchard, this spectacular production celebrates the iconic movie-musical Moulin Rouge.