As the festive season approaches, Chelmsford Theatre is set to dazzle audiences with an array of captivating events. From the timeless tale of Snow White to creative workshops for young minds, and delightful comedy shows, there's something for everyone. This December, the theatre becomes a hub of creativity and joy, offering a rich tapestry of performances and activities that promise to entertain and inspire. Join us as we explore the magic, humor, and creativity that define this year’s unforgettable line-up at Chelmsford Theatre.

A Magical December: Chelmsford Theatre's Enchanting Festive Line-Up

Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn't get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect', just in time for Christmas Eve.

From the author of the much loved children's book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, comes Dear Santa. This show is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over. The Christmas cheer continues, with the opportunity to meet Santa after the show, where every child will receive a festive gift.

Dear Santa

Chelmsford Theatre

Join us for our popular lunchtime Concerts taking place in Chelmsford Theatre Studio. 

Wed 11 Dec: Eve Walker. Eve is an emerging artist and composer who brings her vocal and instrumental skills featuring her own original music, which is inspired by theatre and film music.

Lunchtime Concerts

Stuck at home and put to work by her spoiled Step-Sisters, Cinderella’s life is dreary and dull. Everything changes when she helps a mysterious woman out. With a little bit of magic, she is transported into an ethereal new world. One where fairies bring the gifts of seasons, pumpkins turn into carriages and where true love awaits.

RBO: Cinderella

In a Mexican border town plagued by neglect and corruption, a frustrated teacher, played by Emmy nominee Eugenio Derbez, tries a radical new method to unleash the curiosity and potential of his students… and maybe even try their genius.

Radical (12A)

Chelmsford Theatre hosted its first pantomime in 1967 and in 2024 our beloved panto continues to bring festive cheer to Chelmsford. Take a peek in the Dame’s dressing room, walk across our panto stage, and see how the production comes together in this one off tour.

Experience the magic of going behind the scenes at our theatre. You’ll learn about our theatre’s history and how various departments from our box office to theatre technicians come together to make each production a success. Our backstage tours are suitable for all ages to enjoy

Backstage Tour: Pantomime Special

Join us at Chelmsford Theatre where there are stories to be told! Autumnal Tales arrives in our main theatre bar this autumn for a storytelling event for the whole family.

On the second Monday of each month in 2024 you and your child can grab a tasty treat and a place to sit while our professional storyteller weaves marvellous tales for young ears.

Autumnal Tales Storytelling with Mike Dodsworth

It’s Christmas Eve. Fern the Christmas Fairy and Eggnog the Elf are very excited. They play, dance and decorate their cosy little room.

The next day they wake up to a bright Christmas morning. The best friends exchange gifts but they realise something is missing and they have just one wish… to have a hug!

A Christmas Wish

WiFi wars returns to Chelmsford Theatre with a very festive version of the live comedy game show where everyone plays along. Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show and prizes.

Hosted by comedian Steve McNeil and aided by tech wizz Rob Sedgebeer.

Xmas WiFi Wars

It’s time to crack out the Christmas jingles and join James B Partridge for an evening of pure nostalgia, stepping back in time for some joyous singalong tunes from Christmases past.

You won’t have to sit cross-legged by the tree waiting for Santa, but you will be encouraged to sing along. Full of festive musical surprises, throwback mashups and reflections on growing up at Christmas time.

The Big Christmas Assembly!

Come along for an Art & Sip session in our cosy and relaxed studio setting, perfect for seasoned artists or complete beginners.

Experienced and friendly tutors will guide you step by step through the process, offering plenty of tips and tricks along the way to bring out your creative flair.

Paint and Sip: Festive Scene

We have everything you need from buggy parking to baby changing so that you can take some time for yourself and just be entertained. The bar is stocked whether you fancy a cuppa or even something a bit stronger, G&T anyone? If you need to whip out a bum (the baby’s please!), a boob or a bottle, please feel free and our comics won’t mind being heckled by our younger guests.*

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy December 2024

She was born with a face and body covered in hair. A genuine bearded lady. She’s kept the secret safe all her life until Abel, a indebted bar owner, marries her for dowry. Now, she no longer wishes to hide.

Rosalie (15)

A playful workshop focused on building young people’s confidence. This is an opportunity to be inspired to try new creative things. This workshop uses drama, language games and creative writing to draw 'zines' all about you! Using a mix of art materials and drawing led experiments the children will make magazines which develop communicating who they are and facilitates sharing that with others.

Creative Education: Sense of Self

A fun and fresh new version of the classic tale, Snow White glides into Chelmsford for our 2024 pantomime with all the ingredients of a perfect family Christmas treat.

When an all too honest Magic Mirror reveals to the Wicked Queen that she is no longer the fairest in the land, an adventure begins where the jealous queen seeks to do away with her competition, the kind and friendly Snow White. Fleeing to a new life deep into the forest, Snow White lives happily until one day she is tempted into eating a poison apple.

Snow White

It’s time to crack out the Christmas jingles and join James B Partridge for an evening of pure nostalgia, stepping back in time for some joyous singalong tunes from Christmases past. You won’t have to sit cross-legged by the tree waiting for Santa, but you will be encouraged to sing along. Full of festive musical surprises, throwback mashups and reflections on growing up at Christmas time.

The Big Christmas Assembly 2025

This show promises a feel-good factor that will transport you back to that magical decade that was the 1960’s. Whether you come to relive your childhood memories or you just simply want to see what your parents have been raving about for all these years, this is a must-see for music fans no matter their age. These legends of the 60’s promise to deliver a night that will fill Chelmsford Theatre with nostalgic memories, performing hit after hit. Starring Dozy Beaky Mick & Tich, Love Affair's Steve Ellis, The Fortunes, Vanity Fare and see Mike d’Abo (lead singer with Manfred Mann) on his farewell tour.

The Sensational 60's Experience

Rising to fame through the BBC TV star Gareth Malone’s hit TV series The Choir, The Military Wives was created to help the wives and partners of servicemen deployed to Afghanistan express themselves through song.

Within a year, the choir hit number one on the UK singles chart with Christmas hit, Wherever You Are. A number one album, In My Dreams, followed. The choir performed at the opening of the Olympic Stadium for the Queen and scored a second number one album, Sing, with Gary Barlow and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The Military Wives Choir

Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the world we live in, with a few loud bangs along the way.

Explore the world of the scientists, engineers and inventors who shaped the modern world we live in and feel inspired in your ability to change the world for the better.

Ministry of Science Live

Luke Wright returns to Chelmsford Theatre with a new set of poems that get to grips with the idea of joy. Is it possible, as a 42 year old, to feel pure unbridled happiness and what does it look like?

The French novelist Henry de Montherlant said that ‘happiness writes white’ but Wright’s not exactly starting with a blank page. With a unique blend of comic and wistful, JOY takes on consumerism, boozing, cancer scares, abseiling vicars and the joy of language itself. We might have to go down to come up, but we will all get there in the end.

Luke Wright: JOY

Consisting of various LEGO® activity tables such as creating a mosaic using LEGO® dots and others featuring led activities like a speed challenge or tower building, where names of the builders are entered onto a leader board for the day for all to see. Other activities include constructing vehicles to race down a LEGO® track and trails to find hidden minifigures and small builds around the venue.

The Brick People

With the turkey gone cold, the wine drank and the family on their way back home, leave the dishes behind and join Larry, Zak and the crew for a xmas jazz after party in Chelmsford Theatre Studio.

Larry and Zak are joined by Rowan Ward, Dom Copestick, Rob Rickenberg, multi-instrumentalist Adam Mader and Andy Frost on percussion. No strangers to Chelmsford Theatre Studio, the band bring you a night-club like ambience with this intimate evening of festive Jazz.

Christmas Jazz: After Party

Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed. Marvel at the brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s score, as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker fight the Mouse King and visit the Sugar Plum Fairy in the glittering Kingdom of Sweets. Peter Wright’s much loved production for The Royal Ballet, with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing.

RBO: The Nutcracker

An adults only twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty, where we follow Princess Awhorin and her friends as they sleep around and fight against the devilishly horny Carabosse.

A pantomime that proves happily ever after can be a bit more complicated and a lot more fun. Just one little prick could wear a princess out for at least a hundred years.

Sleeping With Beauty

Come along for a life drawing workshop in our relaxed and cosy studio setting. Presenting you the opportunity to learn something new, enjoy a fun evening with friends or for budding artists to further develop skills. The class will be led by Gareth Barton, who will be on hand with expert advice and guidance to help you tackle the challenge of capturing the human form and if your drawing has got you into a rut, Gareth will happily throw a spanner in the works to get you out of your comfort zone. Workshops will include inspiration from famous artists, dynamic poses from experienced models and the opportunity to share ideas and feedback with the group. Charcoal, paper and boards will be available but if you wish you can bring along any easels and dry materials that you’d like to use.

Life Drawing 2025

The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons promises a spectacular celebration of timeless music of the iconic group. This nostalgic musical journey pays tribute to the life and career of those four boys from Jersey, who started singing under a street lamp and went on to become one of the sixties most recognised groups.

From the streets of New Jersey to the dizzying heights of the West End and Broadway, their music has delighted audiences for over five decades. The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons features all your favourite songs including Sherry, My Eyes Adored You, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and many more.

Peter Andre starring in The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Through the haze of the years, a poet remembers the woman he loved. But, when it comes to matters of the heart nothing is as it seems. Particularly when the devil himself is involved.

RBO: The Tales of Hoffman

The return to fiction filmmaking from Academy Award winner Andrea Arnold. BIRD is a tender, striking and extraordinarily surprising coming of age fable about marginalised life in the fringes of contemporary society. 12 year old Bailey lives with her devoted but chaotic single dad Bug and wayward brother Hunter in a squat in Gravesend, north Kent. Approaching puberty and seeking attention and adventure, Bailey’s fractured home life is transformed when she encounters Bird, a mysterious stranger on a journey of his own. A wondrous portrait of the transition from childhood to adolescence that remains grounded in her typically empathetic social realism, Arnold’s latest strides to the wildly poetic rhythm of her own drum

Bird (15)

Immerse yourself in a fusion of rock ‘n’ roll, pop and comedy as That’ll Be The Day returns to Chelmsford Theatre. Promising a captivating journey through music history from the 50s to the 80s filled with electrifying performances and iconic tunes

That'll Be The Day

Boasting over 8 decades on the music scene, many line up changes and over 50 hits world wide, The Drifters come to Chelmsford Theatre.

Performing all the best loved tracks from Saturday Night at the Movies, You’re More Than a Number, Come on over to my Place, Up on the Roof, Under the Boardwalk, Kissin’ in the Back Row, Save the Last Dance for Me, Down on the Beach, Stand By Me, Like Sister and Brother and many more.

The Drifters

The biggest Motown party of the year comes to Chelmsford Theatre. Now in its 18th year touring the UK, get ready for all the hits, glittering costumes, dazzling dance routines and outstanding musicianship in this live concert spectacular.

Prepare to go Loco down in Acapulco as they take you back down memory lane with all the Motown classics from iconic artists like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5 and many more.

The Magic of Motown

Following a successful run last year in Edinburgh, the self styled, hardest working beefcakes in alcohol based infotainment are back.

Presenting a brand new musical extravaganza where each audience member will get five shots. Sip back and marvel as the drinks experts embark on an all singing, all dancing musical mission to prove that the pub and indeed alcohol, are the cornerstones of civilisation.

The Thinking Drinkers

Join us for an enchanting Ballroom and Latin show that spans generations, showcasing the incredible talents of little ones aged from just 18 months to seasoned professionals. Experience the captivating grace of movement as our diverse cast takes the stage, uniting our dance family once more

Chelmsford Dance Centre Spectacular 2025

Paris in the 1930s - a playground for industrial heirs and debonair architects, but the City of Lights does not shine evenly for all.
Struggling actress Madeleine (Nadia Terezkiewicz) and her best friend Pauline (Rebecca Marder), an unemployed lawyer, live in a cramped flat and owe five months’ rent. Opportunity knocks after a lascivious theatrical producer who made an inappropriate advance towards Madeleine turns up dead.

The Crime is Mine (15)

Direct from London’s world famous jazz club and combining live jazz, narration and rare archive photo and video footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars return to Chelmsford Theatre with a brand new programme of music celebrating Ronnie Scott's story.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club: The Ronnie Scott's Story

After a sell out debut UK tour, What’s Love Got To Do With It? Is back celebrating the music and sixty year career of rock and soul legend, Tina Turner.

Expect a night of high energy, feel good rock and roll, performed by an all live band. The joyous show features all the hits including Proud Mary, River Deep, Simply The Best and many more.

What's Love Got To Do With It?

Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark woods in Tall Stories’ magical musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler celebrating 25 years in 2024.

The Gruffalo

From the voices of ramblers and campaigners to the songs and poetry inspired by past and current struggles, Behold Ye Ramblers is a new play about The Clarion newspaper and the organisations formed by its readership, including the famous rambling club, The Sheffield Clarion Ramblers.

Along with the Clarion Cyclists, these early Edwardian pioneers promoted healthy outdoor pursuits, organising expeditions across open moors and mountains whilst campaigning for the right to roam, bringing them into conflict with landowners’ hunting and shooting activities and laws that prioritised private property over the wellbeing of others

Behold Ye Ramblers

Celebrating over half a century since the formation of legendary West Coast county rock band The Eagles in 1971, The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return with a brand new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail and memorable showmanship.

Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ catalogue of classics including Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, New Kid in Town, Life in the Fast Lane and many more

The Illegal Eagles

In this filmmaking session young people will learn the basics of filmmaking and will be given the task of making a short film trailer in small groups. This will involve coming up with a creative film trailer idea using iMovie templates, filming, acting and editing during the workshop using our cameras and iMacs.

Creative Education: Film Making

Finally, the UK has a new government. That can only mean one thing: new people to take the piss out of.

Leading political comedian and satirist Matt Forde (British Scandal, Spitting Image, The Last Leg) makes this his personal mission.

Matt Forde: End Of An Era Tour

An evening celebrating the icon of reggae, Bob Marley. Combining the distinctive vocals and musicianship of Marley’s unforgettable sound, the cast recreates timeless hits from Three Little Birds, No Woman No Cry, Is this Love, Buffalo Soldier and many more reggae classics.

Legend: The Music of Bob Marley

Tread the boards, glimpse into our dressing rooms, and walk centre stage with a backstage tour at Chelmsford Theatre.

Experience the magic of going behind the scenes at our theatre. You’ll learn about our theatre’s history and how various departments from our box office to theatre technicians come together to make each production a success. Our backstage tours are suitable for all ages to enjoy.

Please bear in mind that there is no step free access on theatre tours. If you have any additional needs or access requirements for the tour please contact outreach.theatre@chelmsford.gov.uk

Backstage Tours

An interactive experience where the whole family can sing and dance along to tunes from classic musicals and films, performed by West End singers.

Little ones can enjoy bubbles, charming puppets, lively actions and dance moves to copy, whilst grown ups can indulge in a singsong.

Baby Broadway

The Story of Guitar Heroes has gained recognition for paying homage to some of the most influential and iconic guitarists from the past 50 years of popular music. Promising elite musicians and concert style projections, the show journeys through five decades, from 1950’s rock and roll through the most inspirational guitar heroes of the modern era, recreating the unique sounds of each guitar legend using no less than 30 different authentic guitars. Expect classic hits from legends including Hank Marvin, Chuck Berry, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May, Jimmy Page, Mark Knopfler, Van Halen, Slash and more.

The Story of Guitar Heroes

Immerse yourself in an evening of exploration, promising a visually stunning and emotionally charged journey through the cosmos, allowing imaginations to roam free. Inspiring minds both young and old, explore stars, planets, galaxies, black holes and the search for life beyond earth. Take a poignant look at the power of smallness and the profound concept of destiny. Promising an evening of inspiring family entertainment for all ages, with a stunning soundtrack and live presenter. Presented by Astrophysicist, Ian Hall FRAS.

Wonders of Our Universe II

Prepare to be guided through the art of candle making in this candle making masterclass perfect for beginners or experienced chandlers. Join friendly tutor Nicola as she guides you through the process of creating your own essential oil blend before crafting a unique fragrance to hand pour into your own three wick candle bowl. As these candles set, you will then learn to hand roll beeswax pillar candles. By the end of the class, you’ll have your own custom scent three wick candle and three pillar candles, perfect for cosy winter nights.

Art and Sip: Candle Making

Cléo (an exceptional performance by six-year-old Louise Mauroy-Panzani) loves her nanny Gloria (Ilça Moreno Zego) more than anything. When Gloria suddenly has to return home to Cape Verde to look after her own children, Gloria invites Cléo to visit her and the two have to make the most of their last summer together.

Ama Gloria (12)

Tap Factory returns to the UK for its 10th Anniversary Tour.

Prepare to be captivated as eight male performers deliver a unique blend of dance, acrobatics, music and comedy, creating a show that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Tap Factory

The year is 1916. Holmes returns to Baker Street to resolve ‘the last act’ of his epic career.

After two years of retirement, Holmes is drawn back to London for the funeral of his friend Dr Watson.

A theatrical evening then unfolds, with fourteen characters, all played by Nigel Miles-Thomas in a tour de performance.

Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act

The Johnny Cash Roadshow is heading into its 20th year on the road. A fast paced, energetic, constantly evolving show, celebrating the music of country legend, Johnny Cash.

Set on a Grand ‘Ole Opry style stage the Roadshow bring you the gift of the best of Johnny Cash catalogue of songs in one night's entertainment. Songs such as Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Jackson and Hurt.

The Johnny Cash Roadshow

Immerse yourself in a journey paying homage to the music of Freddie Mercury and the legendary Queen.

Including faithful recreations of the most popular hits such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Radio Gaga, We are the Champions, We Will Rock You and many more. This dynamic stage show has been wowing audiences across the world with its spectacular costumes and production for two and a half decades

Mercury 2025

When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But, with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan. Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day?

The Dinosaur That Pooped A Rock Show

Three characters with no memory arrive in a void. As they try to work out where they are and why, they discover that one of them is English, one Irish and one a Scotsman… Are they the constituents of a joke, or a story, or is the joke ultimately on them?

Enjoying a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe to rave reviews, this comedy explores the meaning of existence, the tensions between optimism, realism and pessimism and the anatomy and history of humour, all through an evening of electrifying theatre.

A Joke

Empower Arts bring an exciting, jam packed Play in a Day session to Chelmsford Theatre. Participants will start the day with warm up games and icebreaker activities to get to know their fellow performers, before jumping straight into character and voice work.

After lunch, rehearsals begin. Start with blocking scenes and bringing all the mornings skills to your new role. Then it’s time for props, costume and dress rehearsal before it’s showtime.

Play in a Day 5-10

Pop Divas Live! Gives you the chance to sing and dance along to some of your favourite pop hits.

Recreating the excitement of a pop concert experience with family friendly choreography and lyrics, your little divas are promised an evening of fun

Pop Divas Live!

All You Wanna Do is come down to Chelmsford Theatre for a fun, funky workshop celebrating the modern musical, Six.

Commencing with a high energy warm up, participants will then learn a little more about the characters they will be depicting, the wives of Henry the eighth, before jumping into the routine prepared by professional performer, Grace Walker.

SIX Workshop

Join a swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest.

Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob up on the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across the Three Pants Ridge.

Pirates Love Underpants

Take a step behind the scenes to see the magic of theatre tech and take a whistle stop tour through the world of stage lighting.

Standing in the Wings brings this workshop, perfect for 13-18 year olds, to Chelmsford Theatre. This is a fantastic chance to get hands on experience with industry experts, learning both the practical and theory behind the world of lighting.

Technical Theatre: Lighting Workshop 13-18

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy.

While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate.

NT Live: The Importance of Being Earnest

Celebrating 50 years since the release of Wish You Were Here album, The UK Pink Floyd Experience creates an atmosphere of Floyd live. Featuring skilled musicians, stunning light show and more than two hours of iconic music.

This brand new show for 2025 includes all the songs from Wish You Were Here, plus favourites from The Division Bell, The Wall, Animals and of course, The Dark Side of the Moon.

The UK Pink Floyd Experience

Come along to Chelmsford Theatre for a fun, lively and energetic musical theatre workshop focusing on the smash hit musical, Matilda perfect for those between 5 and 9 years old.

Led by performer Kerry, who’s stage credits include various professional productions, pantomimes and fashion shows, as well as choreographing professional productions from Oliver to Hairspray.

Musical Theatre: Matilda 5-9

Come along to Chelmsford Theatre for a fun, lively and energetic musical theatre workshop focusing on School of Rock: The Musical, perfect for those between 9 and 13 years old.

Led by performer Kerry, who’s stage credits include various professional productions, pantomimes and fashion shows, as well as choreographing professional productions from Oliver to Hairspray.
Participants will learn a fun routine full of singing and dancing to the much loved songs from the West End and Broadway hit. Taking place in the professional setting of our Theatre Studio, participants will get a taste of the working theatre environment.

Musical Theatre: School of Rock 9-13

Join professional dance teacher, performer and choreographer, Kerry, for an opportunity for teens to sharpen their jazz skills. Kerry has been running a dance school for over three decades and has various stage credits from her career as a professional performer from fashion shows to productions.

Good technique is an essential building block for all dancers and the program of this workshop is designed to enhance performers' jazz skills. Kerry will lead a session full of leaps, turns, kicks and more. This session is ideal for those who already have some dance experience.

Jazz Technique Masterclass 13-18

Brace yourself as Forbidden Nights comes to Chelmsford Theatre celebrating 9 years of muscles, mayhem and over 11,000 shirt rips

If their appearance on Britain’s Got Talent left you craving, prepare to experience the stage show where you can be the ultimate judge. Unleashing your inhibitions as Forbidden Nights takes you to a whole new level, delivering more than your wildest dreams.

Forbidden Nights

Join a tiny acorn for an extraordinary journey through a busy forest.

Discover larger than life fungi, creaking tree roots, icy branches as you pass through the delicate cycle of a forest with three storytellers as they take you on an enchanting adventure.

Breathe

Join John Crace in a humorous evening in conversation around his new book.

From quick witted John Crace comes a satirical memoir from the eyes of his beloved dog, Herbie and as a Westminster veteran, boy does he have some stories to share.

John Crace: Taking the Lead

Set over the course of one week, ROSE is the story of two sisters, Inger and Ellen, and how their relationship is challenged on a highly anticipated coach trip to Paris. When Inger announces her struggles with mental health to the group, the sisters are faced with pity from some and downright discrimination from others. On arrival in Paris, it soon becomes clear that Inger has a hidden agenda concerning a figure from her past, ultimately involving the entire group in her hunt for answers.

Rose (12A)

Singer, Harriet, has added a new February date. Join her for an intimate evening of favourite sounds from the 70’s including hits by The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Carole King and The Carpenters, interlaced with her own nostalgic original material. This is a unique opportunity to hear Harriet perform songs from the era that inspires her most and share the stories behind her connection to the music.

Harriet

Join CAODS for an unforgettable night as they follow the lives, dreams, and challenges of Broadway dancers in A Chorus Line.

Featuring many well known musical numbers such as What I Did For Love, One and I Hope I Get It, don’t miss out on this performance celebrating 50 years of the show.

A Chorus Line

Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful woman, Odette, he is immediately enraptured. But, she is under a spell that holds her captive, allowing her to regain human form only at night. Von Rothbart, arbiter of Odette’s curse, tricks the Prince into declaring his love for the identical Odile and thus breaking his vow to Odette. Doomed to remain a swan forever, Odette has but one way to break the sorcerer's spell.


RBO: Swan Lake

Dominating rock and roll music since the 1960’s, The Rolling Stones distinct sound comes to Chelmsford Theatre.

Relive the classic hits with The Rolling Stones story, a high energy concert celebrating all the favourites, from Satisfaction, Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Not Fade Away, Honky Tonk Woman, Brown Sugar, Start Me Up and more.

The Rolling Stones Story

Is your teenager always asking how the magic happens behind the scenes? Do they have a creative spark waiting to be ignited? Standing In The Wings are thrilled to be delivering Lighting Workshops for Chelmsford Theatre. These workshops are perfect for young people aged 10-16 who are curious about the world of theatre and eager to explore the electrifying world of stage lighting.

Discover the Power of Light
In theatre, lighting isn’t just about turning on a few bulbs—it’s about setting the mood, telling a story, and bringing the stage to life. Your will dive into the fascinating world of lighting design, learning how to use colour, intensity, and angles to create breathtaking effects. Whether they’re dreaming of a future on the technical side of theatre or just love being part of something creative, these workshops are the perfect place to start.

Creative Education: Technical Theatre

Following sell-out seasons in London and New York, brand new musical Cruel Intentions is coming to Chelmsford.

Based on the iconic film and inspired by Les Liaisons Dangereuses, it’s packed with ‘90s pop classics including songs by Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M, Ace of Base, Natalie Imbruglia, The Verve, *NSYNC and many more.

Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical

Step back in time with the iconic sounds of the Big Band era. Directed by Chris Dean, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra brings to life the music that once filled the grand dance halls. This electrifying ensemble promises to get your toes tapping with their faithful recreation of legendary bands like Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, Woody Herman, and Ted Heath.

The Syd Lawrence Orchestra 2025

They call it ‘the incident’ now. What happened when they first met. He always said it was part of his ‘romantic plan’, but they both know that’s rubbish.

Join Arthur and Jane, at the beginning, as they tell us

In Other Words

A definitive insight into the real lives of Britain’s most notorious gangsters, from their trusted official biographer, Fred Dinenage.

For decades they were feared as the ultimate criminal gang lords of the London underworld, but their reign of terror came crashing to an end when in 1969 both Ronnie and Reggie Kray were given life sentences by a judge at the Old Bailey. Reggie went on to serve decades in some of the toughest prisons in the country, while Ronnie became a patient at Broadmoor with an insanity that was only kept under control by massive doses of drugs.

Ronnie, Reggie and Me

Join Dottie, an eager to please server on their first day on the job working in a 50’s style diner, where the babies are the customers and the caregivers are along for the ride.

As the server waits on their demanding clientele, imagine babies doing what they do best, creating adorable chaos, the server grows more frazzled and more entertaining. Stimulating for tiny audience members with sensory served up throughout the show and hilarious for adults as everyone takes on a role in this unfolding and unique comedy.

Whipped Up

Relive the dazzling era of glitter, glamour and groovy beats with Disco Inferno UK, a high energy celebration of the golden era of disco.

With electrifying performances, stunning costumes and a glittering light show take a journey through disco’s enduring legacy. Celebrating the iconic hits of Donna Summer, Earth Wind and Fire, The Bee Gees, The Jackson 5 and many more.

Disco Inferno

Adapted from the classic children's book by C.S. Lewis. When the Pevensie children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy, are evacuated from wartime London to stay in the countryside, they stumble across a mysterious wardrobe leading to the fantasy world of Narnia.

The siblings learn that their arrival was prophesied and under the guidance of Aslan, they rally alongside Narnia’s magical inhabitants to try and defeat the evil forces of the White Witch.

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

Investigative journalist, Nick Stapleton, has spent over a decade delving into the shadows, unravelling scams, frauds and unethical practices. Nick has spent much of his career pretending to be somebody else, be it undercover as an employee working inside a dodgy business or posing as a customer on a sting operation.

As the presenter of BBC’s Scam Interceptors, Nick has witnessed the sheer scale of the scam industry. He’s seen behind the curtain and it’s clear, we can’t rely solely on authorities or banks to protect us.

Nick Stapleton's How to Beat the Scammers Tour

Celebrating the legacy of Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light Orchestra. From Evil Woman, Diary of Horace Wimp to Don’t Bring Me Down, the iconic Mr Blue Sky and many more.

In 2016, ELO’s frontman Jeff Lynne released a brand new album, Alone In The Universe and followed this with a UK and world tour. The ELO Experience tour will include greatest hits from an extensive and impressive back catalogue, spanning nearly half a century.

The ELO Experience

Step into the heart and soul of country music as this show pays homage to country music icon, Luke Combs. Join them for a night promising authentic Southern vibes and a whole lot of boot stomping fun.

Faithfully recreating the North Carolina country vocal and sound, this show brings a five piece band to perform Luke’s hits and fan favourites from across all his albums. Perfect for audiences searching for their country music fix.

Luke Combs UK: A Tribute

The Capulets and Montagues are sworn enemies. Yet it is love at first sight for Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet when they meet each other at the Capulet ball into which Romeo has snuck. The two fall in love and they profess their devotion to each other at Juliet’s balcony and get married in secret. The stakes are raised for the young couple when Romeo avenges the death of his friend Mercutio who has been killed by Juliet's cousin. For this, Romeo is exiled from Verona. Meanwhile, Juliet’s parents are forcing her to marry another suitor.

RBO: Romeo and Juliet

Dedicated police detective Ma Zhe is assigned the case of a series of horrific murders in a rural Chinese town. As the investigation progresses, pressure from his superiors to find the suspected serial killer mounts, leading to a hasty arrest. But while his colleagues rush to celebrate, several clues push Ma Zhe deeper into a desperate investigation of his own, leading him into a dark world where mystery hangs over his every lead.

Only the River Flows (15)

Three of the UK’s favourite TV personalities from the world of antiques entertain you with tales from the saleroom, television and beyond. The enormous variety of their experience range from selling chickens and cattle to priceless Chinese artefacts and multi-million pound cars.

Antiques and A Little Bit of Nonsense

On the remote island of Chiloè in the late 19th century,
an Indigenous girl named Rosa lives and works with her
father on a farm. When the foreman brutally turns on
Rosa's father, she sets out for justice, seeking help from
the king of a powerful organization of sorcerers.

Sorcery (15)

In a tribute show celebrating the music of Mumford & Sons, Awake My Soul takes you on a live musical journey through their unique folk rock sound. From the West London dive bars to sell out stadium tours, multi-platinum albums and a private performance for Barack Obama.

Featuring a live four piece bang promising to faithfully recreate the Mumford and Sons’ distinct sound with all of their best music including Little Lion Man, I Will Wait and Awake My Soul.

Awake My Soul: The Mumford & Sons Story

This acting class focuses on two things, building confidence and building skill, all in a fun and dynamic way. We will start with some classic drama games to bring up the energy and the focus, bring your competitive side. Step into the circus with us as we explore mime, clowning, performing in the round and more. This session is a great way to explore the role of both a performer and a director, as you are thrown new challenges to navigate. We will build all our circus skills together to create a final piece, which will be performed to your parents/guardians.

Creative Education: Acting

Amateur dramatic group, Reject Productions are back with the award winning play by Yasmina Reza

They say kids will be kids, but the adults are worse... much worse.

An 11 year old boy knocks another boy's two front teeth out whilst in the local park. Their parents meet up to have a civil conversation about the misdemeanours of their children as adults should… what can go wrong? As the day turns to night chaos ensues when passive aggression turns to tantrums, name-calling and tears.

God of Carnage

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for two amazing shows with Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips.

Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for two amazing shows with Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips.

From the fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt. Are you ready to rumble with Ramesses the Great? Dare you enter through the gates of the afterlife

Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians

The beautiful but icy Princess Turandot will only marry a man who can correctly answer three riddles. Those who fail are brutally beheaded. But when an unknown prince arrives, the balance of power in Turandot’s court is forever shaken, as the mysterious stranger does what no other has been able to.


RBO: Turandot

Features 25 smash hits, six decades of stardom and enough costume changes to cause a sequins shortage, Strong Enough is a celebration of the global superstar and female icon that is Cher.

Featuring all of the classic hits including Turn Back Time, I Found Someone, Believe, Strong Enough, Gypsies Tramps and Thieves and her modern Abba remixes, this show-stopping extravaganza takes you on a musical journey from the Dark Lady days to the rocking 80’s perm and the celebration disco hits of the 90s.

Strong Enough: The Ultimate Tribute to Cher

In this engaging and uplifting tale for families and audiences aged 2+, join Princess Olive on a thrilling quest to find the legendary Tidy Up Troll to help clean her room before the Troll Queen’s palace party.

This fantastical puppetry adventure is jam packed with original music, magic and comedy. For everyone everywhere who delights in making a Mess!

Mess!

A national treasure and master of the Glitter Ball trophy, Craig Revel Horwood is the longest serving judge on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. After starting as a dancer, he worked on the nation’s biggest musicals and became a choreographer, director, and best-selling author.

Craig Revel Horwood: Fab-U-Lous

The definition of cool in their 50’s and 60’s vegas heyday, combining the full sound of a big band swing with charisma, panache and swagger.

Rat Pack Live invites you to be part of the gang, faithfully recreating all the patter and razzmatazz of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr’s infamous live shows.

Rat Pack Live

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family.

Grab your compass and join an intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child's favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

Dinosaur World Live 2025

It sometimes felt as though time had stood still down on the farm, the old Fordson tractor quietly rustling away at the back of the barn, Grandpa tending his chickens. That is, until the summer his grandson came to stay, and the old man started telling some of the stories of what it had been like when he was a boy.

Following successful UK tours and a critically acclaimed run in New York, Michael Morpurgo’s compelling sequel to War Horse returns to the stage in this delightful, family friendly show. Combining drama, storytelling and original music, this moving account of the changing face of the English countryside acts as a beautifully crafted reminder that stories really can reach across generations.

Farm Boy

She is courted by three infatuated suitors, an honest and loyal shepherd, a womanising and charming sergeant and a lonely wealthy farmer. Who will she choose? If any of them? She plays with all of their hearts to devastating and dramatic effect.

Thomas Hardy’s masterpiece about love, class and gender rules is set against the rural landscape of Victorian England and is thrillingly brought to life in this new adaptation by Conn Artists Theatre Company, performed by an ensemble cast accompanied by music and songs of the period

Chelmsford Theatre

Nov 29, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025

Snow White

13 - 24 Dec, 2024

Dear Santa

27 - 29 Dec, 2024

Christmas Jazz: After Party

Jan 5, 2025

RBO: The Nutcracker

17 - 19 Jan, 2025

Sleeping With Beauty

13 - 24 Dec, 2024

Dear Santa

Dec 11, 2024

Lunchtime Concerts

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Chelmsford Theatre