Fish Outta Water

A one-woman coming-of-age comedy performance, which explores themes of neurodiversity, mental health and climate anxiety.

Fish Outta Water is a one-woman show written and performed by award-winning local playwright Jess Ashley, and directed by Colchester-based West-End veteran Joe Allen.

The play follows a 19-year-old who, tired of swimming in circles, initiates ‘Operation Free Willy: An Agoraphobic Orca’s Guide to Escaping Your Tank’. From driving lessons to dating, she dives head-first into adulthood, soon realising that being in the wild isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Exploring themes of neurodiversity, mental health, and climate anxiety, this semi-autobiographical, coming-of-age comedy uncovers how young people can find independence in an unfamiliar world.

Refreshments will be available after the performance.

You can find out more about Jess Ashley here

This event is part of the Manningtree Earth Festival 2026 – a 5-week celebration of environmental action running from May 23 to June 30. Most events are free and volunteer led so if you can please donate when you sign up to the event.

If you’re no longer able to attend, please cancel your booking as soon as possible so your place can be offered to someone else, as spaces are limited.

Find the full list of Festival Events here