Spring is in full swing, and there’s no better time to explore everything Essex has to offer. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, music lover, theatre buff, or simply looking for a memorable night out, April 2025 is brimming with incredible events to add to your calendar. From captivating art exhibitions and world-class theatre productions to electrifying live music and side-splitting comedy, this month promises unforgettable experiences for all tastes.
With so many fantastic events to choose from, now’s the time to plan your perfect April itinerary. Read on for the full list of must-see attractions and book your tickets before they sell out!
Best Attractions and Things to Do in Essex in April 2025
Dawn of Expressionism
Dates: Throughout April
Venue: Picturehouse Hackney
Don’t miss an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant Parisian art scene of the 1870s. Exhibition On Screen invites cinema goers to discover the origins of Impressionism with this big screen look at the 1874 exhibition which saw the birth of the world’s favourite art movement. Told uniquely through the words of those who witnessed the birth of Impressionism – the artists, their contemporaries, art critics, writers and commentators of the time – the film reveals the political and social shifts which sparked their new approach to art.
Craig Revel Horwood
Dates: 16 April
Venue: Chelmsford Theatre
Craig Revel Horwood is releasing his debut solo album in the autumn, ahead of an extensive UK tour in support of his album. Craig is promising fans a night of glamour, tall tales and big songs from his album, which features ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’ from Funny Girl, ‘On My Own’ from Les Miserables and, amongst many others, ‘Little Girls’ from Annie, a song that Craig has sung in many productions playing Miss Hannigan.
Beatlemania
Dates: 12 April
Venue: West Cliff Theatre
Join Beatlemania for a night to celebrate the music of the greatest band of our lives. 1964 was the year that launched The Beatles onto the world stage and Beatlemania will be celebrating the group’s first film and album A Hard Day’s Night as part of a brand-new tour. The first section of the show is dedicated to that year alone and will feature songs from the film and album. The performance continues with a huge back-catalogue of the all greatest hits that you know and love.
Book at the West Cliff Theatre
Kate Mosse
Dates: 4 April
Venue: Mercury Theatre
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of her global No 1 bestseller, Kate Mosse is set to thrill audiences anew with her unforgettable one-woman show, Labyrinth Live: Unlocking the Secrets of the Labyrinth. With theatre at its most dazzling, immersive and dramatic, with music, imagery, and film, she will take us through history and mystery, on an epic journey across the breathtaking landscape of the Languedoc – of Carcassonne, Toulouse, Chartres and the Pyrenees.
Get your tickets at Mercury Theatre
Shaun Ryder
Dates: 25 April
Venue: Towngate Theatre
He’s the wild man of rock who became a national treasure. Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman, Shaun Ryder, is hitting the road for a new, spoken word tour. He’s touring in support of his new book: Happy Mondays – and Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays. Fans can look forward to a carnival of excess, wild tales, and improbable truths, as they enjoy the talents of a unique rock’n’roll star dubbed ‘Britpop’s answer to WB Yeats’.
Ivo Graham
Dates: 11 April
Venue: The Corn Hall
Apologetic Eton and Oxford alumnus, Ivo started stand-up in 2009 at the age of 18, and eight months later became the youngest ever winner of the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny award for new acts at the Edinburgh Fringe. Now a regular fixture in the clubs and theatres of the UK circuit, his gauche charm and crafty, self-aware wit has proved a hit with audiences of all ages. This gig is worth crossing the border to seek out.
Art Show
Dates: 12-13 April
Venue: Langford & Ulting Village Hall
This popular community event returns once again to Langford, Maldon. This annual art show exhibits original works from local artists, from the more established to those taking their first steps into the art world. You may well discover a gem before anyone else…
Sophie McCartney
Dates: 26 April
Venue: Charter Hall
Tackling her perimenopausal panic with denial, delirium, and a shot of tequila – what does life look like when you’re too old to be young, but too young to be old? Desperate for a mad night out (as long as she’s home by 9pm), mum of three Sophie, an optimistic raver, is by no means down and out – she’s up and in… watching Netflix. Grab your glow sticks and join Sophie as she embarks on life’s next big chapter with sequins, snorty laughs, and a pair of killer orthopaedic heels.
Get tickets at Colchester Events
Halla Groves-Raines
Dates: Until 20 April
Venue: Firstsite
There are just a few weeks left to catch this exhibition that marks a decade of the Firstsite Collectors’ Group Bursary Awards. Halla Groves-Raines was a recipient of one of Firstsite’s Bursaries in 2023 and, using her award funds, Halla has created a cohesive collection of up to ten portraits, each capturing unique snapshots of people living in Essex and Suffolk. Embark on a unique journey through our region, exploring modern perspectives of local women and family connections in the Essex-based artist’s first solo exhibition.
Death of a Salesman
Dates: 8-12 April
Venue: Palace Theatre
Few plays have captured the American Dream’s allure and devastation as powerfully as Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman. This April, a fresh touring production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece brings Willy Loman’s tragic odyssey to audiences here in Essex, led by esteemed actor David Hayman. With a stellar cast and direction from Andy Arnold, one of Scotland’s most influential theatre figures, this revival promises to be a must-see theatrical event. As audiences brace themselves for an intense exploration of family, ambition, and self- delusion, Miller’s timeless play finds new relevance in an age where economic uncertainty and the pressures of success weigh heavier than ever. David Hayman, best known for his roles in The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas, Dad’s Army, and Trial & Retribution, steps into the role of Willy Loman, a salesman on the brink of emotional and financial collapse. With his belief in personal charm and ambition crumbling, Willy grapples with the harsh realities of a life built on illusion. Hayman, a seasoned performer with a deep connection to socially conscious storytelling, brings both gravitas and vulnerability to this iconic role. “This play is a true masterpiece – raw, timeless, and deeply moving,” he says. “I’m thrilled to bring Arthur Miller’s powerful vision to life on stage.” The production boasts a formidable supporting cast, including Beth Marshall as Linda Loman, Daniel Cahill as Biff, and Michael Wallace as Happy. Each actor embodies Miller’s deeply flawed yet painfully relatable characters, navigating themes of familial love, disappointment, and the relentless pursuit of success. Under the expert direction of Andy Arnold, known for his groundbreaking work at the Tron Theatre, Death of a Salesman is set to receive a fresh, innovative interpretation. Arnold’s reputation for breathing new life into classic texts makes him the perfect visionary for this project. “Arthur Miller’s exploration of family relationships and shattered dreams is as powerful and relevant today as it was when first performed,” he reflects. “Bringing this production to audiences across the UK is a privilege.”
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
