A popular early years play is coming to The Half Moon Theatre this weekend.

Handa’s Surprise is a short production created by Little Angels Theatre that has returned to the stage due to popular demand.

The play, which previously received rave reviews, revolves around Handa and her journey to see her best friend Akeyo, in the next village, in Kenya.

Before heading out on her journey, Handa fills her basket with seven delicious fruits.

There is one fruit for each of her friends. But as she walks, with the basket balanced on her head, she is unaware of the crafty animals that intend to steal her fruits.

Kaya Stanley-Money, production and Touring co-ordinator at Little Angel Theatre said: “It’s a show that has been playing in theatre for years because of its popularity.”

The play has been directed by Marleen Vermulen and is based on top children’s author, Eileen Brown’s novel.

It blends physical performance, puppetry, live music and song to create an intimate, magical production with audience participation.

The audience will be taken through the story of an African village which explores its sights, smells and colours of the landscape, its animals and food.

Kaya added: “At first the play was developed as a project on a much smaller scale.

“But it was later developed into a full touring show. and visits theatres all over the UK.

“It has been successful wherever it has been performed.”

Little Angel Theatre has become widely known as the Home of British Puppetry and one of only three building-based puppet theatres in England.

The 100 seat theatre was established in 1961, and is the centre of all Little Angel activities.

The stage stands side-by-side with the workshop, where all new productions and puppets are developed, carved and constructed.

The theatre also runs an imaginative education programme which works with schools, young people and community groups.

Visitors are able to get involved with the theatre’s Saturday Puppet Club, Crafty Kids Club and Youth Theatre, and regular Kids Fun Days and holiday clubs.

Handa’s Surprise will be heading to the Half Moon Theatre in White Horse Road on Saturday and will also be playing at the Stratford Circus in Newham next month.

The 35 minute show, is suitable for all children between the ages of 2 and 6.

Visit www.littleangeltheatre.com for information.