What’s On
Choose a date range:
Reset date range
Exhibitions
Free
Tim Noble & Sue Webster: Love and Hate at Firstsite
Thursday 09 November 2023 - Sunday 27 September 2026
In this presentation, seven light sculptures by Noble & Webster illuminate areas of the Firstsite building with pops of glimmering colour.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Rebecca Riess: Lossless
Saturday 14 March - Sunday 07 June 2026
How do we cope with the noise of the modern world? Rebecca Riess invites you to explore this question through a bold and immersive series of otherworldly large-scale sculptures and installations.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
University Centre Colchester (UCC): To Be Continued
Saturday 18 April - Sunday 05 July 2026
Celebrate the next generation of Colchester’s artists in this dynamic, two-part exhibition from students at University Centre Colchester.
Find out moreCinema
The Stranger
Wednesday 13 May 2026
11:00 am
In 1930s Algeria, the apathetic Meursault shows total indifference to life. His emotional detachment leads to a murder, then trial that scrutinises his character.
Find out moreCinema
Kinaesthesia
Wednesday 13 May 2026
2:00 pm
BAFTA and Grierson award-winning filmmaker Gerald Fox celebrates the centenary of the “dream film” in cinema and its years of flowering during the silent film period.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Mini Movers & Makers Toddler Group
Thursday 14 May 2026
10:00 am
More times available
Artist-led toddler group provides a fun environment for children to explore sensory storytelling and experiment with a range of art activities.
Find out moreCinema
California Schemin’ (Parent & Baby)
Thursday 14 May 2026
11:00 am
Based on the improbably true story, California Schemin’ follows two aspiring Scottish MCs who devise an audacious scheme to achieve their dream of a record deal.
Find out moreCinema
Glenrothan (Captioned)
Thursday 14 May 2026
1:30 pm
This screening will be shown with the addition of captions throughout the film. A hearing loop is also available in the Cinema. Â Legendary actor Brian Cox makes his indelible directorial debut with this tense drama about family and…
Find out moreCinema
Kokuho
Thursday 14 May 2026
4:15 pm
In 1964 Nagasaki, an orphaned yakuza heir enters the world of Kabuki, growing up beside his mentor’s son as rivalry and ambition shape their destinies.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Free
YAK | Young Art Kommunity
Thursday 14 May 2026
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
More times available
Young Art Kommunity (YAK) is Firstsite’s young-people peer led group which organises events and activities within the gallery and in the wider community.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Trust The Process: Observational Drawing
Thursday 14 May 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
Our four-part Trust the Process: Observational Drawing workshop invites you to explore the foundations of observational art.
Find out moreCinema
The Blue Trail
Friday 15 May 2026
11:00 am
More times available
Set in near-future Brazil where the government prioritises productivity above all else, elderly citizens are forcibly relocated to remote colonies to make way for younger.
Find out moreCinema
Colours of Time
Friday 15 May 2026
1:10 pm
More times available
Brought together by the unexpected inheritance of an abandoned house in rural Normandy, four cousins discover they share a mysterious family history.
Find out moreCinema
Rebuilding
Friday 15 May 2026
4:00 pm
More times available
After a wildfire destroys his home, divorced father and ranch owner Dusty (Josh O’Connor) must plant new roots.
Find out moreTalks & Events
Free
Free Art Jam with Art Harbour
Friday 15 May 2026
4:30 pm
More times available
Based on different themes, Art Jam with Art Harbour is a free opportunity to explore, experiment and develop your own art ideas.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Design & Print Your Own Wooden Statement Earrings
Friday 15 May 2026
5:30 pm
Discover the creative possibilities of jewellery design in this hands on screen printing workshop. Perfect for creative minds who love crafting, fashion and making unique accessories, this session invites you to design and produce your own wearable artwork.
Find out moreCinema
This Is England + Q&A
Friday 15 May 2026
7:00 pm
A young boy becomes friends with a gang of skinheads. Friends soon become like family, and relationships will be pushed to the very limit.
Find out moreTalks & Events
Firstsite Fabulous Fridays
Friday 15 May 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
Immerse yourself in a world of unlimited creativity at our monthly Fabulous Fridays with unique workshops, art, tasty treats and great films!
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Paint Like…
Friday 15 May 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
Learn how to recreate iconic artworks in a supportive and guided environment with our Paint Like… workshop.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Boozy Brushes
Friday 15 May 2026
7:30 pm
More times available
Join Sirena Hart for Boozy Brushes at Firstsite – our New Multi-Art, Drag entertainment painting class extravaganza!
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Monochrome Painting: Cezanne’s Apples and Oranges
Saturday 16 May 2026
10:00 am
Take inspiration from Paul Cézanne’s iconic still lifes, focusing on his famous Apples and Oranges, and create your own monochrome oil painting study.
Find out moreCinema
The Land Of Sometimes (Relaxed)
Saturday 16 May 2026
11:00 am
Twins Alfie and Elise get more than they bargained for after summoning the mysterious Wish Collector, an enigmatic character who whisks them away to The Land of Sometimes – an incredible place where all four seasons pass in just…
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Life Drawing with Justine Moss – all levels
Saturday 16 May 2026
1:30 pm
More times available
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, gain confidence in drawing the figure, with these tutored life drawing sessions.
Find out moreCinema
Miroirs No. 3
Saturday 16 May 2026
7:30 pm
More times available
Laura’s life is upended when she is in a car crash with her boyfriend who is killed. Laura wanders into the house and life of a family of strangers.
Find out moreTalks & Events
TASAF Lecture: Fakes and Forgeries – Paintings that fooled the world – Georgina Bexon
Tuesday 19 May 2026
2:30 pm
Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful session by Georgina Bexon in The Arts Society at Firstsite (TASAF) Lecture series!
Find out moreCinema
The Land Of Sometimes
Wednesday 20 May 2026
3:25 pm
More times available
A magical, musical adventure from the producers of Toy Story, and How to Train Your Dragon, starring Ewan McGregor and Helena Bonham Carter.
Find out moreCinema
The Land Of Sometimes (Parent & Baby)
Thursday 21 May 2026
11:30 am
The Land of Sometimes is a magical, musical adventure from the producers of Toy Story, and How to Train Your Dragon, starring Ewan McGregor and Helena Bonham Carter.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Rewilding Imagination Labs
Thursday 21 May 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
A monthly gathering for artists, creatives, and the curious to explore the uncharted territories of imagination.
Find out moreCinema
The Drama
Friday 22 May 2026
11:00 am
A happily engaged couple is put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off the rails.
Find out moreCinema
Primavera
Friday 22 May 2026
2:00 pm
More times available
In 18th century Venice, 20-year-old violin virtuoso Cecilia lives at the Pièta orphanage, where, despite her talent, she remains confined.
Find out moreCinema
Exit 8
Friday 22 May 2026
5:30 pm
More times available
A man trapped in a endless sterile subway passageway sets out to find Exit 8. The rules of his quest are simple: do not overlook anything out of the ordinary.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Opening Celebration | Godfried Donkor: It’s a Numbers Game
Friday 22 May 2026
Join us for a special evening event to celebrate the opening of ‘It’s a Numbers Game’, Godfried Donkor’s first UK institutional show at Firstsite!
Find out moreCinema
Mother Mary
Friday 22 May 2026
7:50 pm
Long-buried wounds rise to the surface when iconic pop star Mother Mary reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer Sam Anselm.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Godfried Donkor: It’s a Numbers Game
Saturday 23 May - Sunday 30 August 2026
Step into a boxing ring. Stand face-to-face with the leaders and resisters who shaped history. Walk through waves of figures rising from the pages of the Financial Times.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Make
Saturday 23 May 2026
10:00 am
More times available
Get making during our Holiday Fun: Make session with a variety of free creative activities at Firstsite this May.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Gardening
Saturday 23 May 2026
10:45 am
More times available
Join us for these hands-on sessions where you will learn how to care for plants through nature inspired arts, crafts and planting.Â
Find out moreCinema
Hitpig! (Relaxed)
Saturday 23 May 2026
11:00 am
When your kitty’s left the city, when your moose is on the loose, when your cow has said ciao, call Hitpig, the world’s greatest animal tracker. Hitpig (Jason Sudeikis) is a bounty hunting pig who catches escaped animals and…
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Canteen
Saturday 23 May 2026
11:45 am
More times available
Enjoy freshly made hot meals for all the family at Firstsite’s Holiday Fun Canteen in Colchester town centre.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Afromoves
Saturday 23 May 2026
12:00 pm
Dance your way into the May holiday with fun and energetic Afro-Moves at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester!
Find out moreCinema
Mother Mary (Captioned)
Saturday 23 May 2026
2:00 pm
Long-buried wounds rise to the surface when iconic pop star Mother Mary reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer Sam Anselm.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Boozy Brushes – Paint Your Pal
Saturday 23 May 2026
7:30 pm
More times available
Join Sirena Hart at Firstsite for Boozy Brushes a multi-art, Drag entertainment painting class extravaganza where you can your pal!
Find out moreCinema
Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo; the Making of an Icon
Sunday 24 May 2026
2:00 pm
More times available
Frida Kahlo is a phenomenon. She is arguably the world’s favourite female artist in Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo; the Making of an Icon.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Breakdance
Tuesday 26 May 2026
10:45 am
Children can show off their best moves with Breakdance at Firstsite Holiday Fun this May in Colchester!
Find out moreCinema
Father Mother Sister Brother
Tuesday 26 May 2026
11:00 am
Winner of the Golden Lion Best Film prize at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, Father Mother Sister Brother is the eagerly-awaited new film from Jim Jarmusch.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Mini Athletics
Tuesday 26 May 2026
12:00 pm
On your marks, get set, go! Sprint, leap and throw this Spring with our Holiday Fun May 2026 Mini Athletics!
Find out moreCommunity and Partners
Free
Art in the Community
Tuesday 26 May 2026
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
More times available
Art in the Community sessions are for people who use creativity to improve their well-being, and for recovery from mental and physical issues
Find out moreCinema
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
Tuesday 26 May 2026
2:30 pm
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is an animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros., and follows The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which was released in 2023.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Rugby
Wednesday 27 May 2026
10:45 am
Children can get active and release some steam this May with Rugby at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester!
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Drumming
Wednesday 27 May 2026
12:00 pm
Children can participate in this fun and relaxed session this May with Drumming at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester! Most suitable for 4 – 11 years, but all ages welcome. Caregivers are required to stay on site throughout the activities….
Find out moreCinema
Hitpig!
Wednesday 27 May 2026
2:00 pm
When your kitty’s left the city, when your moose is on the loose, when your cow has said ciao, call Hitpig, the world’s greatest animal tracker.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Circus
Thursday 28 May 2026
10:45 am
Step right up, step right up, for this May Holiday Fun session to learn some circus skills with Beef Wright!Â
Find out moreCinema
Mother Mary (Parent & Baby)
Thursday 28 May 2026
11:00 am
Long-buried wounds rise to the surface when iconic pop star Mother Mary reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer Sam Anselm.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Football
Thursday 28 May 2026
12:00 pm
More times available
Run, jump and kick this May with Holiday Fun Football! Meet your heroes from Colchester Villa in a fun footfall coaching session.
Find out moreCinema
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet
Thursday 28 May 2026
2:15 pm
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet is David’s witness statement; for the first time sharing his views direct to his global audience and calling for mankind to urgently.
Find out moreCinema
National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World
Thursday 28 May 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
Coughlan, Hardwicke and McSweeney in Synge’s riveting play of self-discovery, National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World.
Find out moreChildren & Families
Free
Holiday Fun May 2026: Forest Schools
Friday 29 May 2026
10:45 am
More times available
Discover a mix of games, crafts, and outdoor adventures this May with Holiday Fun Forest Schools in Colchester! Â Get stuck into hands-on activities designed to build confidence, spark creativity and encourage a love for the natural world. Activities…
Find out moreCinema
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Friday 29 May 2026
2:00 pm
More times available
Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel – Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable street.
Find out moreCinema
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet (Relaxed)
Saturday 30 May 2026
11:00 am
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet is David’s witness statement; for the first time sharing his views direct to his global audience and calling for mankind to urgently.
Find out moreCinema
Rose of Nevada
Saturday 30 May 2026
2:00 pm
More times available
Rose of Nevada follows a fishing boat, lost with all hands 30 years ago, that mysteriously returns.
Find out moreCinema
MET Opera Live: El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego
Saturday 30 May 2026
5:45 pm
MET Opera Live: El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego, a magical-realist portrait of Mexico’s painterly power couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
Find out moreCinema
The Devil Wears Prada 2 (Captioned)
Sunday 31 May 2026
11:00 am
Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel – Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable street.
Find out moreCinema
Rose of Nevada (Captioned)
Tuesday 02 June 2026
2:00 pm
Rose of Nevada follows a fishing boat, lost with all hands 30 years ago, that mysteriously returns.
Find out moreCinema
The Devil Wears Prada 2 (Parent & Baby)
Thursday 04 June 2026
10:30 am
Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel – Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable street.
Find out moreCommunity and Partners
Free
Folk & Bespoke Artisan Craft Market
Saturday 06 June 2026
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
More times available
Have a handmade shopping day. The people in your life deserves something special and for a totally unique gift, you cannot beat handmade.
Find out moreTours
Gallery Tour
Friday 12 June 2026
6:00 pm
More times available
Visit our major exhibition, Sue Webster: Birth of an Icon, and enrich your experience with a guided Gallery Tour led by a Firstsite Visitor Assistant. Â Discover our exhibitions through a guided Gallery Tour led by a Firstsite Visitor…
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Free
Free Tai Chi with Lu Yu
Friday 12 June 2026
7:00 pm
This free, one-hour beginner-friendly session will introduce you to the fundamental 24-step Yang Style Tai-Chi in a peaceful atmosphere accompanied by soothing music.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
EcoArt Collage and Craft
Friday 12 June 2026
7:30 pm
Join us for our EcoArt Collage and Craft workshop with Clare Sams where creativity meets sustainability in this unique group experience!
Find out moreTalks & Events
TASAF Lecture: Wassily Kandinsky – Rosalind Whyte
Tuesday 16 June 2026
2:30 pm
Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful session by Rosalind Whyte in The Arts Society at Firstsite (TASAF) Lecture series!
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Modernist Painting: Cubism and Still Life
Saturday 20 June 2026
10:00 am
Explore Modernist painting approaches to still life through Cubism and early abstraction, inspired by artists such as Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Georges Braque, and create your own Cubist-inspired oil painting.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Exploring Watercolour with Simon Carter
Saturday 20 June 2026
10:00 am
Explore the art of watercolour with internationally exhibited contemporary artist Simon Carter in Exploring Watercolour with Simon Carter!
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Origami Workshop
Saturday 20 June 2026
2:00 pm
More times available
In our Origami Workshop, Lu Yu will guide you step by step through the creation of specific origami shapes in this ancient art form!
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Krafty Kids
Sunday 21 June 2026
10:00 am
More times available
Krafty Kids is a monthly creative workshop designed for young people aged 7-12+ who are curious about art and enjoy making their own work.
Find out moreCinema
National Theatre Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses
Thursday 25 June 2026
7:00 pm
More times available
Manville joins Turner in a striking new staging of Hampton’s celebrated adaptation in National Theatre Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses.
Find out moreCommunity and Partners
Free
Colchester Record Fair
Saturday 27 June 2026
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
More times available
Browse the stalls and grab yourself a bargain – or perhaps something a little rarer at the Colchester Record Fair at Firstsite.
Find out moreTalks & Events
The Firstsite Art Fair
Saturday 11 July 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Firstsite Art Fair brings together a diverse range of artists, collectors, art lovers and all who are simply curious about art.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Watercolour Workshop
Saturday 11 July 2026
10:30 am
More times available
Explore the materials, techniques and colour theory used to develop your watercolour paintings in this relaxed social session.
Find out moreCourses, Clubs & Classes
Boozy Brushes – Paint Your Pet
Saturday 25 July 2026
7:30 pm
Join Sirena Hart at Firstsite for Boozy Brushes a multi-art, Drag entertainment painting class extravaganza where you can paint your pet!
Find out more