The Mercury Theatre
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Mercury Theatre

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Live performances nightly

CrowdMedium
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The Mercury Theatre

Mercury Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Live performances nightly

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Genuinely one of the best theatre venues I've ever visited."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Theatre Productions

Live Theatre Productions

Main Auditorium

Experience captivating plays, musicals, and comedies from local and touring companies. A true stage for diverse performances.

TikTokInstagram
Family-Friendly Musicals

Family-Friendly Musicals

Main Auditorium

Enjoy enchanting shows like 'The Little Mermaid' perfect for all ages. Magical storytelling brought to life on stage.

Instagram+1
Comedy and Drag Shows

Comedy and Drag Shows

Main Auditorium

Laugh out loud with stand-up comedy and vibrant drag performances. Energetic nights filled with entertainment.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Hit shows at the Mercury Theatre sell out fast! Check the schedule and book tickets online well in advance, especially for musicals and popular touring productions. Don't miss out on a great night of entertainment! Instagram+1

Consider Pre-Show Dining

The Mercury Theatre offers a restaurant for pre-show meals, but reviews suggest dining elsewhere might be a better value. Plan your meal accordingly to maximize your theatre experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Live performances nightly
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Family shows and matinees
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Workspace hire available
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thank you for your support 🙏 Thursday Pulaski, NY Kallet Theater Friday Colchester, CT Priam Vineyards #delta #travel #janitor #grandtheftauto #trainsplanesandautomoblies
@janitorwithstamina
3.1K likes • 29.3K views

🎯 Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out! Secure your seats in advance for musicals and special events. Instagram+1 :ticket:

🍽️ Dining Options

Restaurant reviews are mixed. Consider eating elsewhere for better value before your show. Reddit :knifeforkplate:

What do all of these strange words mean? Flumps is running at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester until Sat 14th June - do check it out if you can! #acting #actor #bts #theatre #play
@robyn_holdaway
1.9K likes • 31.2K views
A little glimpse of our wonderful Fraser Adams (@frazalar_16) as Puck in S4K’s Midsummer Nights Dream coming to the Mercury Theatre Colchester next week @s4k_international @mercurytheatrecolchester #ECN #FraserAdams #Actor #Drama #Comedy #S4K #MidsummerNightsDream #Puck
ecn_talent
10 likes • 486 views

♿ Accessible Seating

The venue offers lifts and ample space, including wheelchair areas. Comfortable for all. Reddit :wheelchair:

🚗 Easy Parking

Saint Mary's car park is nearby with plenty of spaces, a short walk to the theatre. Reddit :car:

The audience reaction to Private Lives is in! 🤩 Come and join us for a "fun, frivolous, and fierce" evening as Noël Coward’s sparkling comedy of manners, Private Lives, heads to our stage with razor-sharp wit, sizzling chemistry, and timeless sophistication that is not to be missed! 🥂 🎫 Book now for Private Lives from Wed 1 - Sat 11 Oct via the link in our bio! #MercuryTheatre #Theatre #Priva...
mercurytheatrecolchester
22 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out! Secure your seats in advance for musicals and special events. Instagram+1 :ticket:

🍽️ Dining Options

Restaurant reviews are mixed. Consider eating elsewhere for better value before your show. Reddit :knifeforkplate:

♿ Accessible Seating

The venue offers lifts and ample space, including wheelchair areas. Comfortable for all. Reddit :wheelchair:

🚗 Easy Parking

Saint Mary's car park is nearby with plenty of spaces, a short walk to the theatre. Reddit :car:

🥤 Drink Variety

Past reviews noted limited non-alcoholic options. Check current offerings if you don't drink alcohol. Reddit :beverage_box:

💻 Workspace Hire

The Mercury Theatre offers workspace hire, a great option for remote workers. Reddit :computer:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

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

Spacious auditorium
Comfortable seating
Great sound and lighting

What People Dislike

Overpriced food
Mixed food quality
Limited non-alcoholic drinks

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. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Yes, the venue is accessible with lifts available to reach seating areas, and there are specific spaces for wheelchair users. Reddit

Reviewers have praised the amazing lighting and excellent sound quality during performances, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Reddit

The theatre hosts family-friendly shows like 'The Little Mermaid', making it a great destination for families. Instagram

You can expect a diverse range of performances including theatre, musicals, comedy, classical concerts, and jazz. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a small restaurant area where you can enjoy a meal before the show. Reddit

Reviews on food quality are mixed. Some found burgers to be overpriced and not as described, while sweet potato fries were noted as nice. Reddit

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. Reddit

Based on some reviews, the food, particularly burgers, is considered overpriced and not good value for money. Reddit

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. Instagram

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

The Mercury Theatre is a fantastic destination for families. They regularly stage family-friendly musicals and shows, such as 'The Little Mermaid', which are perfect for engaging younger audiences. Instagram The comfortable seating and spacious auditorium ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit Keep an eye on their schedule for pantomimes and other productions specifically geared towards children and families. Reddit

Consider booking tickets in advance, especially for popular family shows, as they can sell out quickly. Instagram While the theatre offers a restaurant, reviews suggest it might be more economical to dine elsewhere before attending a show with children. Reddit The accessible facilities, including lifts, also make it easier to navigate with strollers or for families with mobility needs.

🧑‍💻 Remote Workers & Creatives

For those looking for a productive environment outside the home, the Mercury Theatre offers workspace hire. This provides a professional setting to focus on work, attend meetings, or simply enjoy a change of scenery. Reddit It's a unique amenity that sets the theatre apart as more than just a performance venue. Reddit

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

The Mercury Theatre in Colchester is a vibrant cultural hub, renowned for hosting a wide array of performances. From classic theatre productions and musicals to comedy nights and live concerts featuring jazz and classical music, there's something for every taste. Touring companies frequently grace its stage, bringing acclaimed shows to the local community. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram+2

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. InstagramReddit This multifaceted approach solidifies its role as more than just a venue, but a community arts center.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to the Mercury Theatre generally find the venue to be a positive experience, with many praising its spacious auditorium and comfortable seating. The layout is noted as being accessible, with easy access to seats and the availability of lifts for those who need them. Reddit The lighting and sound quality during shows are consistently highlighted as excellent, contributing to an immersive theatrical experience. Reddit

Practical amenities include ample and clean toilet facilities. For those arriving by car, parking is convenient at the nearby Saint Mary's car park. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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