Things to do in Southend and Leigh this February

Matt Richardson, Palace Theatre

Grab the chance to see multi award-winning comedian Matt Richardson's brand new tour coming to The Palace Theatre this February. This familiar face has hit our TV screens on more than one occasion, from ITV2’s The Stand Up Sketch Show, Celebrity Juice, to Comedy Central’s Roast Battle and much more. Expect support acts at this must-see comedy show.

When: 13th February
Where: 430 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA

Kojo Anim, Palace Theatre

Celebrate Valentine's Day with laughter this February as Britain's Got Talent star Kojo Anim is welcomed at The Palace Theatre. Receiving the golden buzzer from hard-to-please Mr Cowell in the 2019 series, we have high hopes for this performance.

When: 14th February
Where: 430 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA

The Croft, Palace Theatre

Get ready to be spooked as this haunting new play emerges onto the stage at The Palace Theatre. Filled with ancient tales and terrifying truths, prepare for the past and present to merge together in The Croft. Starring Gwen Taylor and directed by award-winning Philip Franks, it's a must-see for avid theatre goers. It's also based on a true story which instantly makes it more creepy.

When: 24th - 29th February
Where: 430 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA

The Maxibrites, The Exchange

Needing a bit of a dance and a sing-a-long? This local band, The Maxibrites, are a fantastic premium cover band that are renowned for getting people feeling good whilst enjoying a drink at their local. If you haven't seen them before, you don't want to miss out. This month they will be heading to The Exchange, and with free entry there's no reason not to attend!

When: 8th February
Where: The Exchange Bar & Kitchen, 659 Southchurch Rd, Southend-on-Sea

Alice in Wonderland Afternoon Tea, Mad Dogs & Englishmen

Renowned for its range of elaborate themed afternoon tea, mesmerising decoration and delicious sweet treats, Mad Dogs & Englishmen's latest Alice in Wonderland theme looks as captivating as always. Recently named one of OpenTable’s top 100 restaurants in the UK for 2019, this stunning parlour is a place locals simply must experience. The perfect way to celebrate a big birthday or occasion this month! Image: facebook.com/Maddogsinteriors

When: Up until 1st March
Where: 1349-1353 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2AB

The Comedy Club, The Royal Hotel

The Comedy Club is returning to Southend's Royal Hotel this February, welcoming Ryan McDonnell, John Mann and Mike McClean for an evening of stand-up. Taking place in the gorgeous Royal Hotel, there's no better backdrop along the high street for an enjoyable evening; treat yourself to some food and cocktails while you're at it! Image: thecomedyclub.co.uk

When: 28th February
Where: 1 High St, Southend-on-Sea, England SS1 1JE

Footsteps Exhibition, Beecroft Art Gallery

This February is the last opportunity to see photographer Phil Stalham's first solo exhibition Footsteps, taking place at the Beecroft Art Gallery. Photography fans will be in awe of this exhibition consisting of 104 photos, a large majority of which were impressively shot on a smartphone. Image: Phil Stalham

When: Until 29th February
Where: Victoria Ave, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6EX

Photography Workshop, Corner Club

And for those who would like to improve their photography skills, this workshop at The Corner Club in Leigh-on-Sea is for you. The workshop will teach how to compose photos, use a manual and take the photos you've always dreamed of. For those interested, email info@jamesmeaney.com. Image: facebook.com/cornerclublos

When: 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th February
Where: 44-46 Broadway, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AH

Crafting and Cocktails, Create98

Fancy a night out with friends this Valentines? Enjoy an evening of fun crafts and cocktails on Thursday 13th February. Corner Club will host and supply the welcome cocktail, whilst Create98 will get your creative juices flowing. Try out calligraphy on a slate heart, arrange succulents and roses in a concrete pot and do some contemporary embroidery.

When: Thursday February 13th
Where:  98 Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AB

Leigh Farmers' Market, Leigh Community Centre

Leigh Farmers' Market is one of the longest running markets in the Essex area and prides itself on delivering local produce. Expect to see a range of stalls selling all different types of homegrown produce within a 30 mile radius of Leigh! Held at Leigh Community Centre on the third Friday of each month from 9am - 1pm, this month's event will take place on 21st February.

When: 21st February
Where: Leigh Community Centre, 71-73 Elm Road