Nick Cope's Family Concert, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, tomorrow, doors 1.30pm. £4.95. 01206 500900.

WHEN he was frontman of the Candyskins, Nick Cope had hoards of young fans. Now he is writing music for their children.

Back by popular demand, Nick will be performing his own brand of acoustic folk-rock, serving up more songs about monkeys, bears, socks and mud.

Colchester Operatic Society: Jekyll and Hyde, Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, until January 28, 7.30pm and 2.30pm (Saturdays). 01206 573948.

ONE of the largest casts the Operatic Society have had on the Mercury stage, with stunning costumes and scenery, as well as some impressive leading performances, this show is one not to be missed.

Jack Frost by Venetia Twigg, Headgate Theatre, Chapel Street North, Colchester, tomorrow, 2pm. Children £6, adults £8, Family of four £25. 01206 366000.

A VERY appropriate show considering the weather we've been having this week.

This wintery production brings Jack Frost to life through puppetry, live music and storytelling as audiences meet the mischievous sprite who goes on a snowy adventure, spreading winter wherever he goes.

Can you ask him to stop please!

John Dipper and Dave Malkin, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, Monday, doors 7.45pm. £10, £9 concessions. 01206 500900.

ANOTHER new folk duo, they appear to be all the rage at the moment, this time fiddle player John Dipper and acclaimed guitarist Dave Malkin.

Support on the night is from Folk Club favourites, Karen and Colin Cater, perhaps best known for their visual arts company Hedingham Fair.

The Graduate, Headgate Theatre, Chapel Street North, Colchester, Tuesday until January 28. 7.30pm and 2.30pm (Saturday), £12, £10 concessions. 01206 366000.

IPSWICH'S Paper Lantern Theatre Company have been impressing audiences across the Suffolk border with their filmic stage productions.

Now they're in Colchester to show just what all the fuss has been about with an adaptation of the classic Sixties film.