IF according to Madonna music makes the people come together then there is going to be quite a party this week.

Because if you like music then this week is possibly going to be the one for you.

If all of this mean nothing to you then you won't want to go and see Midge Ure at the High Barn in Great Bardfield on Thursday or if you really think it is murder on the dancefloor then Sophie Ellis Bextor will not appeal on Monday at Sub Zero at Essex University.

Shall I stop with the puns now?

Ok, well the other musical treats on offer for those who do like a toe-tap or three includes Kiki Dee at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester, quirky indie boys The Rumblestrips at the Colchester Arts Centre and dance guru DJ Paul Oakenfold and his Perfecto tour again at Essex University.

And it doesn't stop there with a Hold Tight It's 60s Night at the Mercury Theatre on Saturday and African Nu-Roots music with Zimbabwean vocalist and drummer Wedzerai Zvirevo and his band Batanai Marimba at the Colchester Arts Centre also on Saturday.

Once again the theatre gets in on the musical act with Meeting Joe Strummer at the Mercury Theatre on Monday detailing the lives of two very different men through the politics and music of Clash frontman Joe Strummer and again at the Mercury the music of the Emerald Isle as well as its dancing will be clippty-clopping across the stage on Thursday.

Of course for those who like their evenings out a little more sedate then there are evenings with Springwatch babe Kate Humble and theatrical god and comedy genius Jonathan Miller at the Mercury.

And for all those who like their food there is a special African Market Day at Colchester Arts Centre on Saturday from 11am to 5pm and the Essex Food Show at Cressing Temple Barns on Saturday and Sunday.