
Mercury Theatre
Colchester's premier theatre venue, hosting diverse live performances from musicals and plays to comedy and concerts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live performances nightly

Mercury Theatre
Best Time
Live performances nightly

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Colchester's premier theatre venue, hosting diverse live performances from musicals and plays to comedy and concerts.
"Genuinely one of the best theatre venues I've ever visited."

🎯 Book Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out! Secure your seats in advance for musicals and special events. :ticket:
🍽️ Dining Options
Restaurant reviews are mixed. Consider eating elsewhere for better value before your show. :knifeforkplate:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Theatre Productions
Main Auditorium
Experience captivating plays, musicals, and comedies from local and touring companies. A true stage for diverse performances.

Family-Friendly Musicals
Main Auditorium
Enjoy enchanting shows like 'The Little Mermaid' perfect for all ages. Magical storytelling brought to life on stage.

Comedy and Drag Shows
Main Auditorium
Laugh out loud with stand-up comedy and vibrant drag performances. Energetic nights filled with entertainment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Consider Pre-Show Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out! Secure your seats in advance for musicals and special events. :ticket:
🍽️ Dining Options
Restaurant reviews are mixed. Consider eating elsewhere for better value before your show. :knifeforkplate:
♿ Accessible Seating
The venue offers lifts and ample space, including wheelchair areas. Comfortable for all. :wheelchair:
🚗 Easy Parking
Saint Mary's car park is nearby with plenty of spaces, a short walk to the theatre. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out! Secure your seats in advance for musicals and special events. :ticket:
🍽️ Dining Options
Restaurant reviews are mixed. Consider eating elsewhere for better value before your show. :knifeforkplate:
♿ Accessible Seating
The venue offers lifts and ample space, including wheelchair areas. Comfortable for all. :wheelchair:
🚗 Easy Parking
Saint Mary's car park is nearby with plenty of spaces, a short walk to the theatre. :car:
🥤 Drink Variety
Past reviews noted limited non-alcoholic options. Check current offerings if you don't drink alcohol. :beverage_box:
💻 Workspace Hire
The Mercury Theatre offers workspace hire, a great option for remote workers. :computer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Mercury Theatre is praised for its excellent auditorium, comfortable seating, and high-quality sound and lighting, making for a great viewing experience. Visitors appreciate the accessibility and convenient parking. However, some dining experiences have been disappointing, with food being overpriced and of mixed quality, and a past note on limited non-alcoholic drink options at the bar.
"Genuinely one of the best theatre venues I've ever visited. The auditorium is large but all on one tier, access to seats is pretty easy. The menu is reasonably priced and quite extensive. Slushies are always a bonus, and the pantos done here are a marvel."
Maxwell Rose-Rogers
"First time visiting the mercury theatre last Saturday evening to see the Illegal Eagles. Parking was very easy, Saint Mary's car park had lots of spaces and it was just a short walk and you were there. Small restaurant where you enjoy a meal before your show. Shop in the foyer for drinks or snacks and there's also a bar. There are stairs or lifts available to gain access to the theatre seating area. Very roomy area with air conditioning. Comfortable seats, some spacers for wheelchair users. Toilet facilities were ample and kept very clean. The lighting throughout the show was amazing as was the sound quality. Upon leaving the area I noticed that in what had been the restaurant area earlier there was a stand up show going on, so clearly there's a lot that happens here, so worth keeping an eye on their website to see what on. Good place to go for a night out."
sandra buckley
"Ordered the brisket and Chuck steak burgers for my son and I. Burgers were tepid and doubtful they were anything other than a Tesco quarter pounder, they were definitely NOT brisket and Chuck steak !! At £15 way too overpriced so would advise against purchasing. The sweet potato fries were nice however if only they would have been served with a little more coleslaw than the teaspoon worth. Eat elsewhere,not value for money,poor ingredients and tepid."
Evelyn Chowles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mercury Theatre is easily accessible by public transport and car. Saint Mary's car park is a short walk away and usually has ample spaces. Many local bus routes also serve the area. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Saint Mary's car park is conveniently located and a short walk from the theatre, offering plenty of spaces. This makes it easy to drive to your performance.
Absolutely! The Mercury Theatre offers workspace hire, making it a suitable spot for remote workers looking for a change of scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the Mercury Theatre's official website, or in person at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows.
The theatre typically opens its doors for performances in the evening. Specific opening times for the box office and auditorium can vary, so it's best to check their website or call ahead.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings. It's advisable to check the Mercury Theatre's website or contact their box office directly for current offers and eligibility.
While some tickets might be available on the door for less popular shows, it's risky. For most performances, especially musicals and touring productions, booking in advance is essential to avoid disappointment.
Refund policies can vary depending on the event and how the tickets were purchased. It's recommended to review the specific terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the Mercury Theatre directly for clarification.
🎫 🛕 Onsite Experience
The auditorium is described as spacious with great views, and the seats are comfortable. There are also designated areas for wheelchair users.
Yes, the venue is accessible with lifts available to reach seating areas, and there are specific spaces for wheelchair users.
Reviewers have praised the amazing lighting and excellent sound quality during performances, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The theatre hosts family-friendly shows like 'The Little Mermaid', making it a great destination for families.
You can expect a diverse range of performances including theatre, musicals, comedy, classical concerts, and jazz.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small restaurant area where you can enjoy a meal before the show.
Reviews on food quality are mixed. Some found burgers to be overpriced and not as described, while sweet potato fries were noted as nice.
One reviewer noted a lack of soft drink options at the bar, stating only alcoholic beverages were available. It's advisable to check current stock with bar staff.
Based on some reviews, the food, particularly burgers, is considered overpriced and not good value for money.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the theatre. There are facilities within the venue to purchase refreshments. It's best to check the theatre's specific policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography, especially flash photography, is typically not allowed during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check with venue staff for specific policies regarding pre-show or post-show photography.
The theatre's foyer and exterior can offer good photo opportunities. Capturing the atmosphere before or after a show can be rewarding.
No, taking photos or videos of the stage during a performance is strictly prohibited to ensure the best experience for everyone and to respect the artists' work.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets in advance, especially for popular family shows, as they can sell out quickly. While the theatre offers a restaurant, reviews suggest it might be more economical to dine elsewhere before attending a show with children. The accessible facilities, including lifts, also make it easier to navigate with strollers or for families with mobility needs.
🧑💻 Remote Workers & Creatives
This option is ideal for freelancers, students, or anyone needing a quiet space. While specific details on booking and availability for workspace hire should be confirmed directly with the theatre, it presents an interesting opportunity to combine work with the cultural buzz of a theatre setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Diverse Performances
Recent highlights include productions like 'Private Lives' and family favorites such as 'The Little Mermaid'. The theatre also embraces contemporary entertainment, with sold-out drag shows drawing enthusiastic crowds. This commitment to variety ensures the Mercury Theatre remains a dynamic and essential part of Colchester's arts scene.
Beyond staged performances, the Mercury Theatre also offers unique opportunities. They host masterclasses for aspiring performers, like those focusing on 'The Greatest Showman' musical numbers, and even provide workspace hire for those looking for a professional environment to work remotely. This multifaceted approach solidifies its role as more than just a venue, but a community arts center.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Practical amenities include ample and clean toilet facilities. For those arriving by car, parking is convenient at the nearby Saint Mary's car park. However, dining experiences have received mixed reviews. While there is a restaurant, some patrons found the food to be overpriced and of questionable quality, suggesting that eating elsewhere before the show might be a better option. Additionally, a past review mentioned a limited selection of non-alcoholic drinks at the bar, which is worth noting for those who do not consume alcohol.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit