Come and see an event at Colchester’s most diverse entertainment venue, housed in a 13th-century church.
Enjoy a night of laughter in the Colchester Arts Centre, a venue where some of England’s best comedians have performed. Check out the calendar for the different music shows taking place and you’ll almost certainly find something to suit your tastes. Attend a community event like a Frock Swap, a Knitathon or a high tea and get to know some of the locals. While there, learn a little of the history of the building and admire its architecture, which dates back more than 800 years.
The Colchester Arts Centre opened in 1980 in what was formerly St. Mary at The Walls Church. The earliest surviving record of the building is from 1206. It is notable for being the place where 23 martyrs were put to death during the reign of Mary I, who was nicknamed “Bloody Mary.” It has also been said that this was where the children’s nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty originated, because Humpty Dumpty was what the locals called the big on-site cannon, though this has never been proved. Nowadays the church building serves as Colchester’s premier alternative entertainment venue, with events and shows almost every day of the year.
Stay in Colchester for even a few days and you will almost certainly find an event that you like on the centre’s calendar. Comedy lovers could be in for a treat, as some of Britain’s finest comedians, including Eddie Izzard, Jo Brand and Bill Bailey, have performed here. Music lovers are well catered for too, with regular folk, rock and other genre nights held at the centre.
If you have young kids, treat them to a storytelling event or come to see a children’s entertainer. If you would like to meet people who live in the area, join one of the community events such as a morning tea or craft workshop.
Colchester Arts Centre is located in central Colchester on Church Street. The centre’s website has a full calendar of events, complete with times and prices. Note that there is no parking directly outside. The nearest car park is a short walk away and has fees.
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