A huge mechanical elephant and wrestling gladiators will be part of an outdoor festival celebrating the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer.

Kingston’s historic market place and town centre will come alive with displays including the elephant and two gladiators who will battle in an electrifying show called Lords of Lightning.

There will also be a current affairs comedy show, a hip-hop and beat-boxing urban show and a brass band at as part of the celebrations put on by Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

Showtime will take place this weekend and is part of the London 2012 Festival supported by the Arts Council England and the International Youth Arts Festival that has been brightening the borough over recent weeks. The programme is part of Mayor Boris Johnson’s free events, entertainment and cultural treats, aimed at showcasing UK-talent and international artists over a seven-week stint throughout the capital until September.

Kingston’s Showtime will feature 30 different acts presenting the best street art, circus skills, carnival activities, theatrics, dance, music and opera.

Mayor Johnson said: “This eclectic cocktail of artists and entertainment will bring the spirit of the 2012 Games right to the doorstep of Londoners across the capital.

“A joyous mixture of music, comedy, dance, and the downright surprising and unusual, there will be something for everyone.

“Showtime is sure to spark the imagination of everyone who attends.”

Showtime; Kingston town centre; July 21, 1pm to 10.30pm. For more information go to molpresents.com.