On the edge of Colchester, in the country estate of Wivenhoe Park, is the Lakeside Theatre.
Built in 1971 and opened in 1972, the Lakeside Theatre overlooks Wivenhoe Park’s stunning lake, ancient parkland and a vast array of beautiful wildlife. In 2009, an ambitious refurbishment programme was completed, including the addition of a 35 seat black box performance studio, enabled through generous support from the Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and the Winsten Legacy.
In 2026, the fully licenced Lakeside Theatre became home to world renowned conservatoire, East 15 Acting School. Presenting dynamic, provocative and inspiring theatre, the Lakeside Theatre offers spectacular productions featuring sword fights, unarmed combat, aerial circus, breath-taking ensemble movement, live music, cabaret, performance styles from across the globe and so much more, all directed by renowned industry professionals at a fraction of the price of the West End.
We are also proud to present National Theatre Live screenings, allowing our audiences to view the finest of London’s theatre from just £10, as well as 5* touring productions from world class theatre companies.
