A FESTIVAL celebrating Colchester’s cultural scene is returning next month.

First Thursdays celebrates the city’s vibrant and diverse cultural scene.

On May 2, venues across Colchester will open their doors and welcome performances, workshops and immersive experiences, most of which are free to attend.

Cameron Abbott-Betts, producer of First Thursdays, said: “It’s a roaring success, both from the perspective of artists themselves, with 44 per cent of them being first time public funded with this commission, and for local businesses. 

“So far, 50 per cent of our artists have chosen independent local venues, including bars and cafes, bringing them welcome additional customers. 

“We’ve also managed to bring lots of younger people into Colchester to experience arts events, with just over 56 per cent of our total audience aged 18 - 34.

“We hope that First Thursdays will continue beyond May, subject to funding, and if we can count on the continued support of venues offering to run events, with our marketing support.”

Anna Pool of power-folk band Wise Woman, said: “We were so excited to play our home city, enabling us to sing songs we’ve written about the place, with the people they were written for. 

“First Thursdays is an amazing opportunity to explore the city in a way that you haven’t seen before; finding creativity around every corner, and finding out about the people and talent we have in the city.”

Some of the venues holding events include Colchester Arts Centre, Coda, Colchester Makerspace, Curzon Colchester and Firstsite, to name a few.

The majority of events taking place on Thursday, May 2 are free unless stated otherwise.

Musicians aged 18 and older hoping to channel their inner rockstar will be able to join a Jam Night at Coda from 8pm to midnight.

Meanwhile, indie folk singer-songwriter guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke will be performing at Colchester Arts Centre from 8pm to 10pm.

Tickets cost £14.50.

At Firstsite Studio, dance artist and choreographer Hayley Russell, from Halstead, will appear in “Faes Fortune”, an installation that involves theatre, dance and spoken word.

It is intended for an audience aged 12 and older.

Hayley said: "I am so happy to have been commissioned to create live art in Colchester. What attracted me to apply was the chance to bring live art to the city and further explore my artistry while collaborating with local artists.”

“People should come and support local artists and live theatre within the city.

Support for all the artists and creators on 2nd May will bring a sense of community and an appreciation for the artists’ hard graft and dedication.

"If they’re intrigued by the themes of our production, I believe this could change people’s perceptions on tarot.”