What's On
Displaying events between 01 January 2027 and 31 January 2027
A Shoddy Detective 2027
Shoddy Theatre and The Production Garden in association with Chelmsford Theatre presents... The Shoddy Detective.
A laugh-out-loud comedy whodunnit featuring four actors, a dozen characters and a whole load of chaos.
When a priceless painting vanishes at a manor auction, Detective Stuart Pidcock and his unlikely ally must interrogate eccentric suspects, outwit a cunning thief, and crack the century’s mystery.
The unlikely duo must question the colourful array of suspects living at the manor, all while trying to track down the cunning thief and solve the crime of the century.
After sell-out runs in the West End, at the Edinburgh Fringe, and across the UK, the Shoddy team return bigger, funnier, and even more ridiculous than before.
Catch the comedy that’s taking the country by storm — before it vanishes without a clue!
"A comedic gem. It’s a must-see for fans of farce and comedy. This may well become one of the most sought-after tickets of the season." - ★★★★★ North West End UK
"This is one detective mystery play I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend." - ★★★★ Theatre and Arts Review
Dates: Thu 28, Fri 29, Sat 30
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Cinderella 2026
You shall go to the ball this Christmas as Cinderella and friends will be arriving, carriage and all, at Chelmsford Theatre for the 2026 pantomime spectacular!
Cinderella is kind, friendly and spreads joy wherever she goes. She lives at her family home with her rotten stepsisters who are cruel to Cinderella and make fun of her caring nature.
Undeterred by their wickedness, Cinderella happily gets on with the daily demands thrown her way, until she meets a dashing stranger and receives a royal invitation that will transform her life forever.
Expect magic, mayhem, royal balls, fairy godmothers, major glow ups and a touch of ugly! Will our Cinders ever make it to the ball? It’s very likely, but you’d better come along just in case!
Dates: Fri 01, Sat 02, Sun 03
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Country Superstars
The world’s biggest country music tribute show is rolling into town with an award-winning cast! Seen in London’s West End and honoured at the Grand Ole Opry, this internationally acclaimed production is a must-see for all country music fans.
The show features lead impressionists Sarah Jayne and Andy Crust, who have been personally endorsed by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Hosted by Sarah Jayne as Dolly, it includes 12 award-winning impersonations of legends like Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Shania Twain, and Luke Combs, all backed by the Country Superstars Band.
Every detail is thoughtfully crafted, from vocal accuracy and authentic costumes to stunning video backdrops. The show even features a special message from Dolly herself.
Sing along to timeless classics like 9 to 5, The Gambler, Islands in the Stream and more. It’s a great night out for any fan!
Dates: Sun 17
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Don't You Forget About Me
1985. Suburban Illinois. Saturday Morning. Five teenagers walk into detention.
A Brain. An Athlete. A Basket Case. A Princess. A Criminal.
You know the story. Except there was someone else there.
Some time later, in a pub function room in the UK, the forgotten sixth student from that day is throwing a reunion. The buffets out, the boombox is ready, and any minute now - the others will walk through the door.
Part motion picture homage, part existential crisis; this one-man show is a funny, heartfelt trip through teenage memories, the power of nostalgia and the things we tell ourselves to feel like we mattered, seen through the lens of the John Hughes classic that defined a decade.
Don't You Forget About Me is a percussive and poignant love letter addressed to anyone who has ever wished their life was a little more like a movie.
Dates: Sat 23
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Lennon Live
Lennon Live is a spectacular live show featuring Adam Hastings and his superb musicians (The Plastic Oh No Band).
Adam has been a John Lennon impersonator for 20 years, having toured the world with the most renowned and revered bands The Bootleg Beatles and Emmy award-winning Fab Four. He has wowed crowds throughout America, Asia, Europe, Australia, Russia (even Mongolia!), playing venues such as The Royal Albert Hall and Glastonbury Main Stage on multiple occasions.
Widely regarded as the world's top Lennon, fans feel that, as well as bearing a spookily close resemblance, on stage he respectfully embodies the idiosyncrasies, spirit, wit and charisma of one of the world's most beloved and treasured icons.
This show represents the post-Beatles solo years of John Lennon's life and career. It is a loving, fun and emotional celebration of the incredible man and his amazing music.
Dates: Sun 31
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The Owl Who Came for Christmas
“Mum, look! There’s a bauble moving in the tree!”
Fly into author, John Hay and Garry Parson‘s heart-warming tale this Christmas and join Rosie the Owl on her feathered adventures!
Join Rosie the Owl on her enchanting adventures as she finds herself nestled amidst the branches of a family's new Christmas tree. Witness the joy and wonder as the family discovers their unexpected visitor and endeavours to help Rosie find her way back home to the forest.
Inspired by the true story of Rosie the Owl, this charming tale celebrates the power of love, kindness, and the magic of Christmas. With toe-tapping songs, captivating puppetry, and plenty of opportunities for audience participation, this delightful show promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Adapted for the stage by the talented Chandni Mistry, Creative Programmes Practitioner at Leicester Curve, The Owl Who Came for Christmas, is the perfect festive treat for families looking to make cherished memories together.
Running approximately 1 hour with no interval, it's suitable for children aged 1 and up. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Rosie's journey this Christmas!
“A delightful production that successfully brings the story to life and captures the spirit of the value of Christmas and togetherness.” - Lauren in Leicester
“A beautiful Christmas presentation for the young ones and a real introduction to the magic of theatre.” - East Midlands Theatre
Dates: Fri 01, Sat 02
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Tinderella
Get ready for the funniest, cheekiest, most wickedly fabulous adult pantomime you’ve always wished to see. Release your inner child and then leave them at home because this show is not for kids!
In a scandalous twist on the classic fairy tale, it’s time to swipe right on Tinderella – the naughtiest adult panto to ever hit the stage! You’re invited to a night of raucous laughter, innuendos, outuendos and unexpected encounters that will have you begging for more!
Tinderella is a whizz on social media, a real influencer, but it’s all a charade because poor Tinders has no money, no man and none of the glamorous life she claims to be living.
Until one day, she meets not one, but two Princes in the woods…. But who has the biggest balls? Will this be her happy ending or will she lose more than her shoe?! You’ll be gagging for more in this outrageously funny Panto from the UK’s leading Adult Pantomime Producer.
Expect cheesy anthems, spicy frolics, rib-tickling antics and all the audience participation you could want for all you big boys and girls. Leave the kids at home and grab your glass slippers for Tinderella, Two Big Balls, One Happy Ending!
WARNINGS: May not be politically correct. Happy Endings are guaranteed
Dates: Sat 16
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