Blink, Headgate Theatre, Chapel Street North, Colchester, today and tomorrow, 7.30pm, £12, £10 concessions. 01206 366000.

THIS unusual but thought provoking play marks Colchester actor Phoebe Stringer's directorial debut. Featuring local actors Lee Birnie and Nief Carroll, it tells the story of two shy young adults whose worlds collide one day.

Peter Pan, Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, until August 26, 2pm and 6pm various days. £24 to £12 plus discounts. 01206 573948.

ONE summer the Mercury might produce a slight duff old show but this year isn't it. That's because Peter Pan is another smash family fun hit with great acting, delightful music and loads of clever theatrical tricks to bring the magic of Neverland to the stage.

King Ayisoba, Hobo Chang, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, tomorrow, doors 7.30pm. £3. 01206 500900.

FROM the Upper East Region of Ghana, checkout the rebel sound of the King with his raw and uplifting vocals and smooth and suave African-inspired turns. There's also the added bonus of more than able support from local heroes Hobo Chang.

An Audience with Arthur Smith, Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, Tuesday, 7.30pm. £20. 01206 573948.

THE one nighters continue with one of the elder statesmen of British comedy, a regular at the Edinburgh Fringe with shows such as Arthur Smith Sings Leonard Cohen, as well as a beloved voice on Radio 2 and Radio 4, where is a frequent guest on such programmes as Loose Ends.

SUMMER HOLIDAY TREAT

Kids Summer Arts Festival: Majestic Kids - It's a Small World, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 3pm. For ticket details call 01206 500900.

A WEEK-long holistic sensory experience where children will play, create musical instruments, make music, learn dance moves and enjoy drama improvisations and a whole host of arts and crafts.