From pulse-pounding blockbusters and the best in independent cinema to live screenings from around the globe and inspiring workshops and events, our gift vouchers unlock a world of culture, entertainment, and creativity.
Great Films at Firstsite
Our partnership with the UK’s leading independent cinema group, Curzon enables us to bring you great films at Firstsite – all screened in our state-of-the-art 188-seat tiered cinema with digital cinema technology.
Our programme has something for everyone, right in the heart of Colchester from family films, to world cinema, independent films and blockbusters.
We also screen a huge range of live and encore screenings of theatre, opera and ballet performances.
The Curzon Group, which has a cinema venue nearby on Queen Street, work closely with us to create a film programme that rivals those at cinemas across the UK, whilst also responding to Firstsite’s exhibition programme, and coinciding with events in the town.
Launched in June 2017, the collaboration marked the first time that Curzon partnered with a public gallery.
Before, after or during a screening, visitors can also enjoy the drinks, snacks and delicious meals in our cafés.
Firstsite Director, Sally Shaw MBE says:
‘Our partnership with Curzon brings the people of Colchester and the surrounding area some fantastic cinema. From foreign films and family movies to National Theatre live performances, our diverse programme is part of a huge array of fun activities that visitors to Firstsite can enjoy.’
Check our What’s On page for more info and to book your tickets:
Accessible Screenings
Our Accessible Screenings are specially tailored films shown in an adjusted atmosphere in the cinema. These screenings are designed to make the movie experience welcoming, comfortable, and inclusive for all audiences.
Hearing loops are accessible in our cinema. Some screenings are also Audio Description enabled. Only those who choose to use the service will hear the narration. The main screening is unchanged for all other audience members.
Our Accessible screenings include:
Parent & Baby
A relaxed atmosphere to meet other parents in an environment adjusted for your baby’s comfort, with the noise turned down, lights turned up and ample buggy parking space available within the cinema.
See Parent and Baby ScreeningsRelaxed
Films shown in a sensory friendly environment to reduce over-stimulation and create an inclusive space. Free entry for carers with valid CEA card.
See Relaxed ScreeningsCaptioned
Selected titles with the addition of captions throughout the film. A hearing loop is also available in the Cinema.
Accessibility in our building
We want you to enjoy your visit to Firstsite, we offer a range of facilities but our team are always happy to help with any further requirements, please contact us or visit our welcome desk on arrival should you require any further assistance or information.
Firstsite is situated on street level with step-free, level access throughout. A wheelchair is available (on a first come, first served basis). Our cinema has two wheelchair spaces and the front row also has step-free access.
Assistance dogs are welcome.
Personal Assistants are offered a free ticket for any screening when accompanying a person with disabilities – please contact us on 01206 713700 to book your tickets.
Cinema Seating
Our cinema has eleven tiers of seating, from Rows A – L.
Rows B to L are reached by steps, so you will need to use stairs to access these seats. Stair lighting is provided along each step to support visibility and make moving through the space easier.
Step free seating and four wheelchair-accessible spaces are available in Row A.
For guests who prefer extra leg room, we recommend choosing seats at the front, as space is more limited towards the back.
Find out more about our Access and Facilities here at Firstsite:
