1. Choirs join forces for a special show.

The Four Choirs at Christmas features 250 singers from across Tendring, joined by a five-piece band to perform hits by pop stars including Michael Jackson, Abba and Sting. It takes place at Charter Hall, Colchester, on Saturday at 7.30pm. Tickets are £11.50 on 01206 282020.

2. Creative Amateur Stage Theatre promises an outstanding evening of song and dance. 

They will perform Christmas Show Time at the Red Triangle Club, Portobello Road, in Walton on Saturday. Doors open at 1.30pm for a 2.30pm start. Tickets are £3 on 01255 677074.

3. Talents of top young performers will be celebrated.

The Company Performing Arts will host its performance awards at the West Cliff Theatre on Saturday at 7pm. Pupils will put on vocal dance and drama performances with a festive theme for the audience and judges. Tickets are £11.50 on 01255 433344.

4. Teen’s one-man show re-enacts life in the trenches.

Budding actor Luke Grint, 15, will perform Lest We Forget – a tale of the First World War through the eyes of two soldiers. It will be on Saturday at 7pm at St John’s Church Hall. Entry is free, donations will go to the Combat Stress charity.

5. Rotarian carols start the festive season.

Clacton Rotary Club will perform a Celebration of Christmas with song for all tastes. It will be at the West Cliff Theatre at Sunday, 3pm. Entry is free but a collection will go to Rotary causes, including the Christmas Day meal.