RATHER than seeking out mindless ways to distract your children during the holidays why not treat them to some mental stimulation instead?

Families will love Elephant, which combines storytelling with dance, puppetry, comedy, music and song.

Fifteen multi-talented performers, seven from the UK and eight from South Africa, are collaborating on this new show, which is suitable for children aged five to 12 and their families.

When respected tribal leader Chief Zanenvula is forbidden entry to heaven he calls on his ancestors for an explanation,

They tell him to go back to his past then take a look at the future and think about what he sees.

As Chief Zanenvula reviews his life as he has been instructed to he begins to realise how he has offended the Spirit of Africa - but how can he redeem himself?

Elephant celebrates humanity - or Ubuntu - through an enchanting exploration of the themes of captivity, freedom and redemption.

The show blends traditional and contemporary music and dance from African and Western cultures and is the result of a two-year collaboration across continents.

It is being brought to the stage by Dodgy Clutch Theatre Company who are known for their creative work with schools, community groups and festivals.

Theatre Royal Winchester. Wednesday and Thursday, 11am and 3pm. Tickets £8. Box office: 01962 840440.