Colchester City Council is delighted to announce the successful applicants for the 2025 Cultural and Creative Events Fund. This year, the initiative continues its mission to support a thriving and inclusive cultural landscape across the city, with a total of £30,000 awarded to a diverse range of projects set to take place between 1 May 2025 and 30 April 2026.
The Fund attracted a strong response from arts organisations and venues, local charities, community organisations, and creative groups, with over 50 applications submitted. After careful assessment by a panel led by Cllr Natalie Sommers, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Heritage and Public Protection, 24 projects have been selected to receive funding. These projects span multiple creative disciplines, including music, theatre, comedy, visual arts, game development and cultural festivals, each contributing to Colchester’s dynamic arts scene and celebrating its rich heritage and diverse communities.
The funded projects align with the key objectives of the Fund, which include promoting high-quality cultural experiences, showcasing local talent, celebrating Colchester’s history, attracting visitors, celebrating the diversity of Colchester’s communities, and fostering wellbeing through arts participation. Residents and visitors can look forward to a variety of free and low-cost events, from world class classical music at St Andrew Greenstead to open air stand-up comedy among the ruins of St Botolph’s Priory.
Cllr Natalie Sommers said: “We are thrilled to support such an inspiring range of cultural and creative projects this year. The incredible response to the Fund highlights the talent, passion, and dedication of our local creative sector. These events will not only enrich our cultural landscape but also bring people together, support wellbeing, and enhance our city’s reputation as a thriving cultural hub.”
Pictured above: Colchester Arts Centre’s Anthony Roberts and Cllr Natalie Sommers at St Botolph’s Priory, where Open-Air Stand-Up Comedy will take place
Page last reviewed: 3 March 2025