Okay, so it’s not quite Thanksgiving yet, but with Christmas just 34 days away (arrrgh!), lots of people in the Christian world are already thinking about the Nativity and about putting on Nativity plays to celebrate the season. (I don’t know about you, but normally 34 days isn’t enough time for me to get ANYTHING organized without a lot of help from someone — or a lot of someones — at this time of year…)
If you ARE like me, then you probably prefer having a detailed plan so that you don’t forget anything, such as ‘wasn’t there supposed to be a Baby Jesus in there somewhere?’ (Alright, maybe you wouldn’t forget that, but how about a little manger for the little monster, I mean, messiah? Remind me who was supposed to supply that?)
While we all pretty much think we know the story inside out, actually producing the Nativity play means organizing quite a few things you may not have thought about: scenery, actors, animals — especially if using live critters and not just some stuffed animals you stole from your kids’ rooms — and music if you’re so inclined, just to mention a few. Wouldn’t you like to have a little help from someone who’s done it, from small groups to large ensembles? Someone who’s figured out a way to do it without lines (meaning even the littlest kids can participate easily and have fun), who’s made it scalable, and who’s mapped it all out so you don’t forget anything crucial? (I wonder if anyone will notice only 2 wise men are on stage, with the 3rd hiding, just peeking out from behind that donkey? – somehow we were short a costume…)
This eBook and/or CD package practically produces your Nativity plays for you. Well, okay, it really doesn’t produce it for you, but it comes darn close. Even if you don’t have experience doing a Christmas play, it gives you want you need to be successful. Extensive and simple color-coded program and rehearsal notes and helpful hints tell you what actions should be taking place and what to prepare for the next scene. Plus it’s portable and versatile. It helps you create a wonderful performance for your Church, School, Club, Youth Group, Bible Study Group, Sunday School Group, Home Group, or just your family. It gives you an exhaustive list of cast members for whatever version you decide to present, plus up to 24 carols that are carefully matched to the storyline, plus ideas for low-tech and high-tech scenery. It evens provides you with template documents for permission letters, posters and banners. (See how easy it would be to leave something out without a comprehensive kit to remind you you need these things?)
So, if you want to spend more time enjoying the holiday season while providing a little educational entertainment for family and friends instead of racking your brains, going ‘why me?’ and ‘never again!’, why not check out the Nativity Play Musical? She’s put together a really comprehensive package that you can use over and over, with suggestions on how to make changes to it so it never gets boring while maintaining the original spirit of the piece. Check it out if you get a chance. (That is, between Turkey and Tree and Toys and all the other stuff that happens at this time of year…) Even if you decide you can’t do something like this yourself right now, it would make a great gift for your Church or Bible group in case they want to.
