Braintree and Witham look set to be thoroughly entertained through the first couple of months of 2014, with a variety of shows on offer in both towns.

The Braintree Arts theatre, in Notley Road, kicks off its season with an adaptation of Aladdin by the Pantoloons, running from Saturday until January 25 with shows at various times.

Othello will be performed on February 1, a production of Aladdin by Rayne ActUp on February 2, one-woman show Home Truth on February 7 and a comedy performance by Lee Hurst on February 8.

Family adventure Kidnapped will be performed on February 18, followed by a Fun House Comedy night with Alfie Moore on February 20, followed by a performance of Oscar Wilde’s Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime on February 28.

For more information and to book tickets, visit braintreeartstheatre.com/what-s-on or call 01376 556 354.

The Bocking Arts Theatre has closed for winter but will be back with a packed line-up of shows for their Spring and Summer Season soon.

Witham’s Public Hall in Collingwood Road will be providing a busy schedule of performances, with Stageability performing Two Shaws to See on Sunday and an evening of Clairvoyance with Ronnie Buckingham on January 23.

The Doggone Honkabillies will perform on February 8 and WOW will grace the stage with their musical Grease from February 17 until 22.

The Colchester Military Wives Choir will appear at the hall on February 28.

For more information about show times and booking tickets visit withampublichall.co.uk or call 0845 017 8717.