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Free Pantomime Tickets for Short Breaks Essex Families

Essex Short Breaks is pleased to be working with our Short Breaks Clubs and Activities providers once again this year to offer festive pantomime experiences for registered Short Breaks children, young people and their families.

Colchester Mercury Theatre: Jack and the Beanstalk

SEND Sensation will be hosting an exclusive relaxed performance of Jack and the Beanstalk at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester, on 15 December 2026 at 5:00pm. The performance will include British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation.

Ticket Information

  • 350 tickets available
  • Maximum of 4 tickets per family
  • At least one member of the booking must have a valid Short Breaks Essex ID
  • Tickets are free of charge
  • Tickets will be released on 16 October 2026 at 9am

To stay up to date with booking details and ticket release information, please follow SEND Sensation's website and social media channels.

As tickets sold out quickly last year, families are encouraged to ensure they have their Short Breaks Essex Passport ID available before tickets are released.

Website: https://sendsensation.co.uk/
Email: essexshortbreaks@sendsensation.co.uk

Towngate Theatre, Basildon: Aladdin

Butterflies Club will be hosting a performance of Aladdin at the Towngate Theatre, Basildon on 2nd January 2027 at 11am. This performance will also include British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation.

Ticket Information

  • 400 tickets available
  • Maximum of 4 tickets per family
  • At least one member of the booking must have a valid Short Breaks Essex ID
  • Tickets are free of charge
  • Tickets will be released on 19 October 2026

Please follow Butterflies Club's website and social media channels for further booking information and ticket release details.

As with previous years, demand is expected to be high, so families are encouraged to have their Short Breaks Essex Passport ID ready before tickets become available.

Website: butterfliesclubs.co.uk
Email: jen@butterfliesclub.co.uk

Accessibility Arrangements

Both performances have been chosen with accessibility in mind and will include British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation.

The venues may offer a range of adjustments and support measures for audience members, which may include:

  • Ear defenders available on the day
  • Breakout or quiet spaces
  • Sensory support equipment
  • Access to live relays of the performance for those who need to leave the auditorium
  • Pre-show information to help attendees prepare for the performance
  • Social stories
  • Adjusted lighting levels within the auditorium
  • Reduced sound levels during louder scenes
  • Accessible seating and wheelchair-accessible facilities

Accessibility arrangements may vary between venues and performances. Families requiring adjustments are encouraged to contact the relevant theatre directly for the most up-to-date information and to discuss any individual requirements.

Important Information

  • Families may only book tickets for one pantomime performance and cannot attend both shows. This ensures that as many Short Breaks Essex families as possible can benefit from this opportunity. Any duplicate bookings will be cancelled. 
  • A valid Short Breaks Essex ID is required when booking tickets.
  • All tickets are provided free of charge.
  • Tickets sold out very quickly last year, please make sure you are ready when they are released to get them. 

We hope that many Short Breaks Essex families will be able to enjoy a festive and memorable theatre experience this Christmas. 🎭✨