Things to do

The Mercury Theatre in Colchester, Essex is at the heart of the town's arts scene - an active theatre venue involved in putting on plays of national and international importance, as well as in the creation of its own theatre pieces by local artists (Made in Colchester).

An evening out at the Mercury Theatre is a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing or shopping in Colchester town centre.

Located right next to Balkerne Gate, the Mercury Theatre stands on the western part of the town centre, overlooking the 2000 year-old Roman Wall and beside the Victorian water tower "Jumbo".

Named after the Roman god of poetry and communication, the theatre's striking rooftop feature is reminiscent of a statuette of Mercury found on Gosbecks Archaelogical site, dating back to Roman Colchester. The statuette is now on display in Colchester Castle Museum.

The main auditorium in the Mercury Theatre has a capacity of 499 seats. The Studio Theatre has a capacity of 102 seats.
There is a small art gallery within the theatre, the Digby Gallery, which hosts free art exhibitions by local artists.

The Mercury Theatre always has a programme full of entertainment, putting on plays, shows, musicals and concerts. From local theatre groups through to ballet and the family favourite panto at Christmas, find out what's on at the Mercury Theatre tonight or during your visit.